JPH07298034A - Preliminary preparation equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To realize a layout close as image by a designer in the preliminary preparation stage in the print-making process. CONSTITUTION:A CCD camera 1 provides an output of an image signal V1 of an original 3 and a digitizer 4 reads a position information signal V2 from a rough block copy 5. A CPU 9 implements the processing of deciding layout data from both signals V1, V2, layout of an image of the rough block copy 5 based on data and both the signals V1, V2, coloring processing of an image after the layout by a color command signal V3 and 2nd layout based on command signals V8, V9 for character data or the like, and a color printer 17 outputs a calibrated image after the layout. Then a correction command signal V7 is given as the result of calibration of sample by the designer, and the CPU 9 makes layout processing again. Then the processing is repeated till an image by the designer is obtained, layout data or the like are stored in a flexible disk 15 and a sheet 13 with the original 3 sticked thereto and the flexible disk 15 are given to an input device.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention is used in a plate making process, and is particularly used as a technique for improving the preparatory process during the plate making process.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIG. 11 is a process diagram showing a series of steps from design to plate making that are generally performed conventionally. The design to plate making process is roughly divided into three steps. One of them is the design / calibration process T by the designer.
1, and the process T1 includes a design process T11 and a calibration process T12. The other two are a plate making process T2 in the plate making company and a complete plate making process T3 in the plate making company.

First, in the design step T11, the designer collects originals such as photographic originals based on the concept or image held by the designer or the client, and creates a rough block copy for those originals. A rough copy is created by the designer by sketching an image of each manuscript on the copyboard. Therefore, the image drawn on the block board (rough block image) is a rough image that is rougher than the image of the original. Therefore, the rough block image is referred to as a rough block image. Also, according to the creation of this rough version,
The designer creates the instructions. Here, the instructions are
Designers wrote things on the tracing paper that could not be expressed only with pictures, such as photographic manuscripts, to the extent of writing notes. And such "matters that cannot be expressed"
As an example, there can be mentioned an instruction of finished dimensions, an instruction as to how many millimeters the distance between the character and the pattern is set, an instruction of Atarikei, an instruction of raccoon dog alignment, and the like.
After that, the designer sets the instructions on top of the rough copy.

When the rough printing, instructions and manuscripts are prepared by the above procedure, the designer gives them to the plate making company and places an order for the plate making. In addition, the designer hands them over to the composition making company and requests the creation of a complete composition.

Here, it is ideal to first create a complete block and then order the complete block with a manuscript to a plate-making company, but in reality there is no such time margin. Is normal. That is, there are many cases in which printed matter needs to be created by express, such as a leaflet advertisement, and there is not enough time to wait for the creation of a perfect copy before making a plate. For this reason, the designer has decided to use the manuscript
Rough artwork / instructions will be handed over to the plate-making company and the plate-making company.

Complete plate making process T in the block making company
In 3, the complete block is a black-printed product, so the image in the complete block is a monochrome image. In this case, a copy of the original is attached to the perfect backing sheet for the design, and the characters are inked in the typeface and size specified by the instruction sheet.

When the perfect underprint is created, the perfect underprint is passed to the plate making company, and the image data of the perfect underprint is input as digital information at the plate making company.

The details of the plate-making process T2 in the plate-making company are shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the plate-making process T2 is a pre-preparation process in which the plate-making order process in the engineering department and layout data including magnification data, angle data, trimming data, etc. necessary for scanning the document are obtained from the document and the rough block. Then, the document scanning process of setting the color parameters and reading the image of the document with the input device (input scanner) to obtain the image data, and the rough layout by saving the image data and the character data and An editing process for reading an image (monochrome image) of a photographic original and formal layout based on these data, and a film output process for outputting a film (C, M, Y, K plate) by an output device (output scanner) And a simple proofing step of performing a simple color calibration based on the instruction sheet and outputting a color sample. Then, the color sample after the simple calibration is delivered to the designer, and the process moves to the calibration process T12 by the designer.

In the calibrating step T12, the designer can see the finished color sample for the first time at this stage, and when he or she makes the first school, if there is an error or a change,
Give correction instructions to them. This correction instruction is issued to the plate-making company, and is utilized in the process of the formal layout during the plate-making process T2, and the color sample obtained as a result is passed back to the designer side, and the designer receives the finished color sample. If it is judged that it is not according to my image, I will re-school and instruct the plate-making company to make corrections again. Then, until the color sample is finished according to the image of the designer, the designer's calibration and the plate making by the calibration result are repeated.

FIG. 13 is a view showing a conventional preparatory apparatus 50 used in the preparatory step. In the figure, 51
Is a document projection box, 52 is a loading slot for loading the document 45, 53 is a vertical drive device for moving the document projection box 51 in the vertical direction (Z direction), 54 is a projection table with a digitizer, and 55 is projection An operation panel provided on the front side surface of the base 54 for operating the vertical drive device 53 and a light source (not shown) in the document projection box 51, 56 is the projection of the document 45, 46 is the master copy mount, and 57 to 59. Is a trimming area for the block image, 60 is a CPU of a personal computer, 61 is a keyboard, 62 is a plotter, 6
3 is a sheet, 64 is a document frame of the document 45 drawn on the sheet 63, 65 is a monitor, and 66 is a flexible disk.

Next, the operation procedure of the preparatory apparatus 50 will be described.

First, the blockboard 46 is placed on the projection surface of the projection table 54. Then, the original 45 is placed on the original projection box 5
The light source is turned on by operating the operation panel 55 to project on the projection table 54. Then, the thickness of the blockboard 46 is input from the operation panel 55.

The projection magnification, that is, the above magnification may be changed so that the layout image drawn in advance in the trimming area 58 of the blockboard 46 and the corresponding image (projection image) in the projection 56 match (original projection). This is realized by changing the vertical position of the box 51).), And the position and inclination of the master block mount 46 are changed. Then, if the two images match, the following measurements are performed.

The current vertical position of the original projection box 51 is calculated and transmitted as vertical position data to the CPU 60. The CPU 60 calculates the magnification from the data.

The horizontal line (longitudinal direction) of the blockboard 46 is measured by the above-mentioned digitizer, and the measurement data is transmitted to the CPU 60. The CPU 60 calculates the angle θ from the data.

The frame of the projection 56 of the original 45 is measured by the digitizer, and the measured data is transmitted to the CPU 60.

The frame of the trimming area 58 on the blockboard 46 is measured by the digitizer, and the measured data is transmitted to the CPU 60 as trimming data.

The above procedure is performed for each original 45.
When these procedures are completed, the CPU 60 causes the magnification
The angle / trimming data and the like are written and saved as layout data in the flexible disk 66. Also, C
The PU 60 also displays those data on the screen of the monitor 65.

Thereafter, the CPU 60 calculates the data of the position of each original 45 and the original frame from the data of the projection 56 frame of each original 45 and the magnification data, and outputs those data to the plotter 62. As a result, the plotter 62 draws the document frame 64 of each document 45 on the transparent sheet 63.

After that, the operator takes the flexible disk 66 to the scanner, and sets the flexible disk 66 in the disk drive of the scanner. Further, the operator aligns the original 45 with the original frame 64 and attaches it to the sheet 63, then carries the sheet 63 to the scanner and sets the sheet 63 in the scanner. After that, the scanner adjusts the brightness, gradation, and color of the document, and scans the document based on the layout data. The result is output to a device such as an output machine or a layout system, and the process moves to the editing process.

[0021]

The above-described design-plate making process has the following problems.

First of all, there is a problem that it takes time and labor to create a complete block. Of these, the labor required increases the work cost. In addition, the designer cannot confirm the print finish until the complete copy is completed, but since it takes a relatively long time to create the complete copy, it is necessary to check the print finish by the designer at an early stage. It is difficult to calibrate. Moreover, in the plate making process, there is also a problem that the character data cannot be taken in until the complete underprinting board is completed.

In addition, the complete composition is an image accurately reflected by the designer, but since the information of this complete composition is input in the post-process of the plate making process (the above-mentioned editing process), it is input. Due to the relationship between the input information and the rough layout, there is a high possibility that the preparatory process and the document scanning process must be redone in this input stage.

In the case of 1, it is possible to first create a perfect block and then perform the plate making process. However, as described above, there is a problem in that it is not possible to deal with an urgent case. Since it is a monochrome image, it still remains a problem that it is difficult to reflect the proofreading and instructions of the designer regarding the color at an early stage of the plate making process.

Since the color sample is created through simple proofing after the film is output on the editing system side, the correction work occurs in the editing process which requires a high work cost. Therefore, the working cost is increased.
Moreover, the conventional technique has a problem that the working cost further increases as the designer repeats the calibration / correction instruction. Therefore, from the viewpoint of lowering the working cost, it is desirable to reflect the calibration / correction instruction of the designer in the preparatory stage where the working cost is relatively low.

Further, the designer sees the final print result (colored) only when the color sample is completed, and this color sample is a so-called comp (color print as a prototype of the designer). It is used as a substitute for, but because of this, there is a high possibility that a fundamental design (specification) change itself will occur even though the process has advanced to the stage where the color sample is finished.

Further, in the prior art, the work of inputting the block copy data is performed twice, such as the input of the rough block image during the preparatory step and the input of the complete block image during the editing step. . Therefore, the work efficiency is lowered, and it is desired to reduce the number of times of inputting the block copy data.

The present invention has been made in order to solve such a problem, and an object thereof is to omit the preparation of the perfect backing sheet and to confirm the designer at the preparatory stage. . Further, it is also intended to be able to feed back the correction command of the designer at the stage of preparation.

[0029]

The invention according to claim 1 is
A device for deciding layout data of a document required for reading and reproducing the document by a document reading / reproducing device and storing the layout data in a recording medium,
In a preparatory apparatus used in a preparatory step in a plate making process for passing the recording medium together with the original document to the original document reading / reproducing apparatus, an image pickup means for photographing the original document and outputting an image signal giving the image thereof. And a digitizer that generates a position information signal that gives position information of each rough image in the rough block created by sketching a document image in advance by a designer, and the layout based on the image signal and the position information signal. Layout data signal generating means for generating a layout data signal for giving data, input means for inputting a command signal including color information of the original document, which is determined based on the instruction of the designer, the image signal and the position. Based on the information signal, the layout data signal, and the command signal, an electrical layout for each rough image of the rough block. A layout image signal generation unit that performs a layout process and a coloring process to generate a layout image signal that gives a laid-out calibration image; and a display unit that displays the laid-out calibration image according to the layout image signal. ing.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the preparatory apparatus according to the first aspect, the input unit corrects the layout determined by the designer according to the display result of the display unit in addition to the command signal. A correction command signal for giving a command is also input, and the electrical layout process and the coloring process for the laid out calibration image are performed based on the image signal, the position information signal, the layout data signal, and the correction command signal. And a layout image signal correction means for generating a new layout image signal and outputting the new layout image signal as the layout image signal to the display means.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the preparatory apparatus according to the second aspect, the layout image signal correction means corrects the layout data signal provided by the layout data signal generation means based on the correction command signal. And a layout data signal correcting means for generating the corrected layout data signal as the layout data signal.

The invention according to claim 4 is the preparation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the command signal is
It is a signal that also includes a command for character data, and further comprises character data storage means for storing the character data in the recording medium in response to the command signal.

The invention according to claim 5 is the preparation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the command signal is
The signal further includes tint area designation data, and further comprises tint area designation data storage means for storing the tint area designation data in the recording medium in response to the command signal.

The invention according to claim 6 is the preparation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the command signal also includes color information of character data, and the layout image signal generated by the layout image signal generating means. Also gives a character image colored in a color corresponding to the color information of the character data.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the preparatory apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the command signal also includes color information of the tint in which an area is designated, and the layout image signal generating means generates the color information. The layout image signal also gives a tint image colored in a color corresponding to the tint color information.

[0036]

[Action]

(Claim 1) The image pickup means photographs a document and outputs the image signal thereof to the layout data signal generation means and the layout image signal generation means. Further, the digitizer generates a position information signal which gives position information of each rough image in the rough block and outputs the signal to the layout data signal generating means and the layout image signal generating means. As a result, the layout data signal generation means generates a layout data signal and outputs the signal to the layout image signal generation means. Further, the input means outputs a command signal including the color information of the document to the layout image signal generating means. here,
The color information is determined based on the designer's instructions.

The layout image signal generation means receives the above four signals and performs an electrical layout process and an electrical coloring process on each rough image of the rough block, thereby generating a layout image signal. . This layout image signal provides a laid out calibration image. Then, the layout image signal generation means outputs the layout image signal to the display means. As a result, the display means
A calibrated image that has been laid out is displayed, which corresponds to what is obtained by replacing each rough image in the rough block with the image of the corresponding document.

As described above, the present apparatus enables the designer to show the calibration image after the layout process and the coloring process in the preparatory stage. Therefore, by visually recognizing this display image, the designer can study in advance in the preparatory stage whether or not the original document is reproduced according to the image of the designer.

(Claim 2) The designer recognizes the display result of the display means to determine a layout correction command for correcting the displayed calibrated calibration image, and then the layout correction command. The signal is input as a signal to the layout image signal correction means via the input means. Then, based on the correction command signal and further the image signal, the position information signal, and the layout data signal, the layout image signal correction means performs a new electrical layout process and a coloring process again on the laid out calibration image to newly create it. A new layout image signal and outputs the new layout image signal to the display means as a layout image signal. As a result, the display means displays the calibrated image in the layout reflecting the correction command of the designer again in the preparatory stage.

As described above, the apparatus visually provides the calibrated laid-out calibration image to the designer in the preparatory stage. When the designer visually recognizes the display result again and determines that further correction is necessary, the designer again determines a correction command and outputs the correction command signal to the layout image signal correction unit via the input unit. To enter. As a result, the layout image signal correction means repeats the above operation, and as a result, the display means visually provides the recalibrated layout calibration image to the designer again, and the designer who recognizes it again does not need to make correction. Until it is determined that the above-mentioned series of operations of the feedback type is continued.

(Claim 3) The layout data signal generating means outputs the layout data signal to the layout data signal correcting means in the layout image signal correcting means. The layout data signal correction means corrects the layout data signal according to the correction instruction given by the correction instruction signal, and generates a signal giving new layout data as a layout data signal. As a result, the layout image signal correction means receives the new layout data signal generated by the layout data signal correction means and starts execution of electrical layout processing / coloring processing for the laid out calibration image.

(Claim 4) The input means inputs the character data to the character data storage means as a command signal. In response to this, the character data storage means stores the character data in the storage medium. Therefore, the storage medium holds the character data together with the layout data. After that, the storage medium is passed to the document reading / reproducing apparatus, and the character data stored in the storage medium is used by the document reading / reproducing apparatus.

(Claim 5) The input means inputs the tint area designation data as a command signal to the tint area designation data storage means. In response to this, the tint area designation data storage means stores the tint area designation data in the storage medium. Therefore, the storage medium holds the tint area designation data together with the layout data. Then, the storage medium is passed to the document reading / reproducing apparatus, and the tint area designation data stored in the storage medium is used by the document reading / reproducing apparatus.

(Claim 6) The input means inputs the color information of the original document, the character data and the color information of the character to the layout image signal generating means as a command signal. Of this,
Regarding the character data, the input means also inputs the character data into the character data storage means. As a result, the layout image signal generating means performs an electrical layout process / coloring process on each rough image of the rough block, and an electrical layout process / coloring process on the character image based on the character data and the color information of the character. The layout image signal is generated and output after the color processing is also performed. Therefore, the layout calibration image given by the layout image signal is
It includes a colored original proof image and a layout / colored character image. Thereby, the designer can recognize the calibrated image after layout including characters also through the display of the display means.

(Claim 7) The input means inputs the color information of the document, the tint area designation data and the tint color information to the layout image signal generating means as command signals.
Of these, the input means also inputs the tint area designation data to the tint area designation data storage means. The layout image signal generation means performs an electrical layout process / coloring process on each rough image of the rough block, and further, based on the tint area designation data and the tint color information, an electrical layout process / tint process for the tint. Coloring processing is also performed to generate and output a layout image signal. Therefore, the laid-out proof image provided by the layout image signal includes the original proof image and the tint image after the layout and coloring. Therefore, the designer can recognize the laid out calibration image including the tint by the output of the display means.

[0046]

1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a preparatory apparatus 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, 3 is a manuscript, and examples of the manuscript 3 include a photo manuscript, a negative or positive film, a painting, and the like. Reference numeral 2 denotes a light table on which the original 3 is placed, and includes a light source (fluorescent lamp or the like) (not shown) for illuminating the original 3 from below (-Z direction). Reference numeral 1 denotes a CCD camera (imaging unit) attached to an arm extending upward (+ Z direction) on the light table 2 and slidable in the vertical direction. The position of the CCD camera 1 is adjusted to a height having an angle of view (field of view) enough to cover the original 3 on the light table 2, and then the original 3 is photographed and an image signal V ₁ giving the image is supplied. Output.

On the other hand, 4 is a digitizer, 5 is a rough plate underlayment (hereinafter referred to as rough plate down 5) for making a rough plate, 6 to 8
Is a trimming area for drawing a frame of a rough image in the rough block 5, P1 to P3 are positions for providing pairing information of the respective trimming areas 6 to 8, and V ₂ is a position information signal. Here, the rough block copy 5 is as described in the section of the prior art. Also, the pairing information means each trimming area 6 to
This is position information for associating the rough image in 8 with the image of each original 3. Therefore, each rough image represents a sketch image of each corresponding original document. The digitizer 4 reads the position information of these rough images from the rough block 5 and outputs the position information signal V ₂ as a digital signal.

Reference numeral 9 denotes a CPU forming a personal computer (personal computer), and reference numeral 11 inputs command signals V ₃ , V _{8 and} V ₉ for giving various commands and a correction command signal V ₇ for giving a designer's correction command. Keyboard (input means; mouse, light pen or touch panel key may be used) 1
A flexible disk 5 stores layout data and various data stored in the hard disk of the personal computer 9.

Further, 12 is a plotter, 13 is a transparent sheet, and 14 is a document frame plotted on the sheet 13. V ₅ is a command signal that commands plotting of the document frame 14.

Reference numeral 10 is an original document 3 photographed by the CCD camera 1.
Image (that is, the image signal V ₁ ) and a layout image (layout image signal V ₆ ; also referred to as a laid-out calibration image) obtained by laying out each rough image of the rough block 5 after coloring. , A monitor displayed on the screen 16, and 17 is a color sample (hereinafter, referred to as a color sample) by color-printing the layout image based on the layout image signal V ₆ .
It is a color printer that outputs a sample). Here, both of them 10 and 17 are generically called a display device (display means). Further, V ₄ is a display image signal for displaying the image signal V ₁ , the layout image signal V _{6 and the} like on the monitor 10.

The operation of the preparatory apparatus 20 having such a structure will be described in detail in the preparatory step in the design to which the present apparatus 20 is applied. We will start with an overview of the platemaking process.

FIG. 2 is a process diagram showing a design to plate making process to which the preparatory apparatus 20 of FIG. 1 is applied. The whole process is
It is roughly divided into a design and proofreading process T4 by the designer himself and a platemaking process T5 in a platemaking company. Therefore, FIG.
Compared with the case of the conventional technique shown in FIG. 1, the complete block making process is unnecessary in this embodiment. Further, the design / calibration process T4 is divided into a design process T41, a re-school process T42, and a re-school process T43.

First, regarding the design process T41, FIG.
There is no difference from the step T11 shown in 1. That is, the designer in charge (hereinafter, referred to as a designer unless otherwise distinguished) prepares a manuscript, sketches the manuscript to create a rough block, and expresses it on a tracing paper as a pattern. Create instructions by instructing items that cannot be covered. Then, the designer orders the rough copy and the manuscript to the plate making company after superposing the instruction sheet on the rough copy. Although the ordering to the plate making company is not different from the case of the conventional technique, in the present embodiment, the designer does not only make an order to the plate making company but also enters the preparatory process during the plate making process. This entry and other steps T42 and T43 in which the designer also intervenes will be described in the following description of the plate making step T5.

FIG. 3 is a process diagram showing details of the plate making process T5 of FIG. 2, and this process T5 together with the processes T42 and T43.
Is shown. The plate-making process T5 is a characteristic part of this embodiment, and the designer himself also participates in the plate-making order / preparation process T6 in which the image of the designer is reflected, a document scanning process, an editing process, and a film output process. It consists of simple calibration. Of these, in the plate making ordering / preparation process T6, the first school by the designer is performed. In step T6, the designer inputs character data (character font (typeface), size, type, position information), color data, and the like. Then, these data are stored in the flexible disk (storage medium) together with the layout data.

On the other hand, the remaining steps, that is, the original scanning step, the film output step, and the simple calibration step are the same as the steps shown in FIG. 12, respectively. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the character data is transmitted from the input device together with the image data to the editing machine such as the layout system after the document scanning process is completed, the image data and the character data are stored in this editing process. It consists of two processes, a process and a formal layout process, and does not require a character data fetching process as in the prior art. Moreover, in this official layout process, electrical layout work is performed based on the re-school instruction, and then
When the re-school instruction is entered again, the layout work is performed again. An input device (input scanner) for scanning documents
In the present embodiment, the layout system and the output scanner that perform the editing process and the film output process are collectively referred to as a document reading / reproducing device.

FIG. 4 is a process diagram showing details of the plate making ordering / preparation process T6. That is, this step T6 includes a plate making ordering step in the engineering department, a preparatory step T7 carried by the preparatory apparatus 20, a monitor display / sample output step T8, a check (first school) step T9, and a correction instruction step T10. Of these, in the preparatory step T7, the layout data is determined, the original proofreading image is laid out, and the layout image signal that gives the original proofreading image after layout is generated. The original proofreading image after the layout is an image formed by replacing the rough image in the trimming area sketched on the rough version with the corresponding original image, and is also colored.

In this step T7, character data and tint information (tint area designating information and its color information) are also input.
In the monitor display / sample output step T8, the image given by the layout image signal (which corresponds to the one exactly colored in the perfect block image) is displayed on the monitor 10 of FIG. 1 and the color of FIG. It is output to the printer 17.

On the other hand, the steps T9 and T10 are steps in which the designer is involved. In the checking step T9, the designer outputs the sample for the first time, and if the sample is not as intended, the correction instruction step T10. At, the designer sends a correction command to the preparatory device 20 (FIG. 1).
Command to. Then, the above steps T7 to T10 are repeated until the sample matches the image of the designer. As a result, the image of the designer is reflected at the stage of the preparatory process T7.

However, even if a sample reflecting the designer's image is completed in the preparatory stage, the complete comp is not yet completed in this stage. This is because there are many cases where the designer in charge cannot make a decision, and it is often necessary to redesign the concept. In addition, the design of characters may be changed. For this reason, if the preliminary design creates a sample that is in line with the image of the designer in charge, the designer in charge will bring it back and all concerned will consider it again. The step of making this decision is the re-school step T42 of FIG. 2 described above.

The details of the operation / procedure in the above steps T7 to T10 will be described below with reference to the flow charts of FIGS. 1 and 5 to 8.

First, the original 3 is set on the light table 2, and the original 3 is photographed by the CCD camera 1 (step S1). As a result, the image signal V ₁ is read into the CPU 9.

Next, the digitizer 4 reads the position information signal V ₂ for each rough image on the rough block 5 (step S2). The position information signal V ₂ is as follows.

One of them is position coordinate data of reference points (origin, horizontal direction, and vertical direction) of the rough artwork 5.
Specifically, it is as illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 10. Here, FIG. 9A is a rough block copy 5 and its rough image 22.
Fig. 10 shows the CP in the preparatory process.
The layout data determination process by U9 (FIG. 1) is shown.

As shown in FIGS. 9 (a) and 10, the three reference points A (origin) forming the coordinate system on the rough block 5 are
When the digitizer 4 measures the coordinate values of B and C, the digitizer 4 uses the measurement result as the position information signal V _2.
Output to.

The second is position coordinate data of feature points in the rough image of the rough block 5 (for example, the sketch image surrounded by four points F, G, H, and I in FIG. 9A). . Figure 9
In the example of (a), the position coordinate data of two points D and E are adopted as the characteristic points. Depending on the image content, it may be difficult to specify the characteristic points. At this time, a plurality of points may be specified and the center point of these points may be determined as the characteristic point.

The third is position coordinate data of the four outermost points in the horizontal and vertical directions of the frame (trimming frame) of the trimming area drawn in the rough block copy 5. Here, the outermost point is a point where the trimming frame contacts the scanner area frame which is a rectangular frame. In the example of FIG. 9A, the four outermost points are points F, G, H, and I, and the digitizer 4 measures the position coordinates of these points, and the measurement result is used as a position coordinate signal V _2. Output.

Next, the CPU 9 calculates layout data (magnification, angle, trimming data, characteristic point data, etc.) based on the image signal V ₁ and the position information signal V ₂ , and then lays out a signal giving layout data. The data signal is stored in a hard disk (not shown) (step S3). Therefore, the details of the layout data determination process will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

First, the CPU 9 converts the document image data V ₁ into the image signal V ₄ for display, and displays the document monitor image 19 as shown in FIG. 9B. The document monitor image 19 displayed in a tilted state in FIG. 2B is intended to intentionally show a case in which the document 3 is tilted when the document 3 is placed on the light table 2.

After the display, the operator measures the document frame by designating the cursor using the keyboard 11 while looking at the screen 16. Specifically, the CPU 9 receives the cursor designation and receives the four points PA, PB, PC, PO shown in FIG. 9B.
Position coordinates (values with respect to the coordinate axes in the screen 16 of the monitor 10) are calculated, and the document frame is determined by this.
The operator inputs the predetermined number of the original 3 into the CPU 9 using the keyboard 11.

Further, the CPU 9 causes the document monitor image 1 corresponding to the feature point in the rough block 5 given by the position information signal V _{2 to} be displayed.
The position coordinates of each of the nine feature points are calculated. In the example of FIG. 9B, when the operator designates the two points PD and PE with the cursor, the CPU 9 responds to the designation with the characteristic points PD and PE.
The position coordinate value of PE is calculated.

These characteristic points (D, PD), (E, P
When the position data of E) is obtained, the CPU 9 next receives a command from the keyboard 11 and outputs two points (D, PD),
A magnification and an angle (at the time of outputting a document) necessary for matching (E, PE) are calculated. The magnification is the ratio of the distance between the points D and E and the distance between the points PD and PE, and the angle is between the line segment connecting the points D and E and the line segment connecting the points PD and PE. It can be obtained by calculating the angle. This enables conversion between the coordinate axes of the mount 5 and the original 3.

A position information signal V ₂ for giving position coordinate data of four points F, G, H, I (trimming frame) on the rough block 5
On the contrary, the scan area (area surrounded by the rectangular frame 18) can be obtained by using. The CPU 9 calculates the scan area and then converts it to the monitor 10
Is displayed on the screen 16. In FIG. 9B, it is an area surrounded by a frame 21 just indicated by a broken line. Further C
The PU 9 converts the calculated scan area into a document size. Here, the converted data will be referred to as trimming data. The trimming data is a concept including the above-mentioned pairing information.

Next, on the screen 16 of the monitor 10, the position, the magnification, the angle, etc. of the trimming frame 23 are checked, and if there is a mismatch, the data is finely adjusted. That is, the points from the rough version 5
A rough image (rough image 22 in the example of FIG. 9A) including lines and figures is measured by the digitizer 4 and input to the CPU 9 again. The CPU 9 provides data regarding these rough images (this data is also given as the position information signal V ₂ ).
Based on the already calculated magnification / angle data
It is converted into data on the screen 16 of 0 and displayed. Therefore,
By comparing the two images displayed on the screen 16, the operator can confirm whether or not the two images are completely overlapped.

As described above, the magnification, angle, and trimming data forming a part of the layout data have been determined, so that the process proceeds to step S4 in FIG. The layout data signal is also stored in the hard disk (not shown).

The CPU 9 stores the position information signal V ₂ in the hard disk in association with the layout data signal (step S4).

Further, the CPU 9 executes the layout process of the rough image of the rough block 5 based on the image signal V ₁ , the position information signal V ₂ and the layout data signal (step S).
5). The position information signal V ₂ includes the above-mentioned feature point data, and the trimming data is one of the layout data signals. Therefore, the CPU 9 electrically uses the feature point data and the trimming data. Layout processing. That is, the CPU 9 associates the trimming frame with the position of the image of the original 3 based on the characteristic point data, and replaces the rough image in the trimming area with the corresponding original image given by the image signal V ₁ . Then, the CPU 9 performs this replacement for each trimming area to complete the layout process of the rough image of the rough block 5. Then, the CPU 9 stores an image signal giving a new original proofreading image obtained by the layout process in the hard disk as a layout image signal.

Next, based on the instruction sheet, the operator issues a command signal V ₃ for instructing the color of the document to be the color of the laid out rough block image, a command signal V ₈ for instructing the character data and the color of the character. And a command signal V ₉ giving tint information,
Input is made to the CPU 9 using the keyboard 11 (step S6). Upon receiving these command signals V ₃ , V ₈ and V ₉ , C
The PU 9 stores the color information, the tint information, and the character data regarding the color of the document and the color of the character in the hard disk (step S7).

In step S8, the CPU 9 receives the command signal V ₃ and executes a process of associating the layout image signal V ₆ with the color given by the command signal V ₃ . As a result, the proofread image after layout is electrically colored in the color given by the command signal V ₃ . Further, the CPU 9 adds a character image signal which gives colored characters to the layout image signal V ₆ based on the command signal V ₈ and sets the added signal as the layout image signal V ₆ . As a result, the image provided by the new layout image signal V ₆ is formed by incorporating a colored character image having a typeface, size, and type based on the character data at a predetermined position in the proofread image after layout. It becomes an image. Further, the CPU 9 sends the command signal V ₉
Based on adds a tint image signals giving tint image into layout image signal V _6, the image signal after the addition and the layout image signal V _6. As a result, the image given by the new layout image signal V ₆ is the original proof image in which the corresponding original image is colored and shown in the trimming area (trimming areas 6, 7, 8 in the example of FIG. 1). , A character image that gives colored characters in the character area,
And a tint image that gives colored tint in the tint area. This image will be generically referred to as a laid-out calibration image.

When the above electrical layout process / coloring process is executed in the preparatory process, the CPU 9 advances the execution process to the monitor display / sample output process T8 in FIG. First, the CPU 9 converts the layout image signal V ₆ into the image signal V ₄ for display, and displays the screen 16 of the monitor 10.
Display the calibration image laid out in (step S
9). Further, the CPU 9 outputs the layout image signal V ₆ to the color printer 17, and thereby the color printer 1
7 outputs a sample representing the laid out calibration image (step S10). And this sample is
You will immediately receive the first school of the designer.

The designer conducts the first school of the sample (step S11) and judges whether the sample is finished according to the image of the designer (step S12). if,
If the designer determines YES, as shown in FIG.
Through steps S17 to S19, which will be described later, the process proceeds to a document scanning process and a recalibration process T42.

On the other hand, if NO is determined by the designer, the operator who has received the designer's instruction inputs the modification instruction signal V ₇ with the keyboard 11 to give the modification instruction to the CPU 9 (step S13). The modification instruction given by the modification command signal V ₇ is modification of the trimming position, modification of the magnification and angle, and color conversion. The color conversion instruction may be, for example, "slightly brighter" or "change to indigo".

After that, the CPU 9 corrects the layout data signal according to the correction command signal V ₇ , stores the corrected layout data signal in the hard disk again (step S14), and again electrically performs the layout process. Execute (step S15). And CPU9
Executes the conversion processing of the color of the corresponding portion in the re-layout-processed calibration image according to the color conversion instruction given by the correction instruction signal V ₇ to generate a new layout image signal V ₆ (step S16). Then, the CPU 9 displays the corrected calibration image given by the new layout image signal V _{6 on the} monitor 10 again and causes the color printer 17 to output a new sample. Then, the new sample is again checked by the designer (step S11), and the series of processes (step S11) is performed.
11 to S16) are repeated until the color sample matches the image of the designer.

When the color sample is finished according to the image of the designer, the plate making process proceeds to step S17. That is, the CPU 9 stores the finally determined layout data, character data, and tint information stored in the hard disk in the flexible disk 15. As a result, the layout data, the character data, and the tint information can be delivered to the document reading / reproducing apparatus side.

Then, the operator receives the command signal V ₅ and the plotter 12 draws the original frame 14 on the sheet 13.
The original 3 is attached inside (step S18), the flexible disk 15 and the sheet 13 are carried to the input device in the original reading / reproducing apparatus, and they are set in the input device (step S19). With the above, the plate making ordering / preparation process T6 of FIG. 4 is completed.

If the characteristic points of the above-described embodiment are rearranged here, they are as follows. That is, this embodiment is different from the prior art in that instead of performing the complete block making process,
(1) In the preparatory process that is performed immediately after placing an order with a platemaking company, image data, character data and tint data are laid out on a personal computer based on the original document and rough plate, and the laid out image data is monitored. In addition, the sample was output by an output device such as a color printer or a scanner. (2) At the place where the sample was output, the designer checked / corrected the instruction again and the computer again. The layout process is repeated above, so that the image of the designer is immediately reflected in the layout process of the preparation device.

Because of this characteristic structure, this embodiment has the following advantages.

(A) It is not necessary to create a complete artwork, and the work time and manpower can be shortened in terms of the process.

(B) The designer can confirm the sample by hand at an early stage of the preparatory stage. In other words, the designer can confirm the approximate print finish when ordering the plate making. Therefore, the image of the designer can be reflected in the preparatory process, and the layout close to the image of the designer can be realized at an earlier stage. Therefore, it is less likely that the scan work and the like will be redone in the subsequent process. Further, it is possible to prevent a fundamental specification change from occurring in a subsequent process.

(C) Since the correction work by the first school is generated in the preparatory stage where the work cost is low, such a correction work is compared with the conventional technique in which the correction work occurs in the editing process which has a high work cost. In this embodiment, the work cost can be remarkably reduced. Moreover, in the present embodiment, the data input work from the artwork is only at the time of inputting the rough artwork (reading of the position information signal V ₂ ) during the preparatory process, and therefore the work efficiency can be improved also in this respect. Therefore, the work cost can be reduced.

(D) The designer can use DTP (Desktop Publishing) to perform layout work by himself. But in this case,
Designers must have specialized knowledge of software so that they can fully use DTP, but designers who are not familiar with such software cannot do layout work by themselves, and Managing such software is also difficult.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, the plate-making company performs the layout work by the personal computer as an additional service in the preparatory process, so that the designer does not have to perform the layout work by himself. It is more convenient to receive the service from the company in terms of work efficiency and cost. As described above, the technique of the present embodiment also has an advantage that the designer can eliminate the need for the layout work by himself.

(E) Moreover, since the designer in charge can take the sample obtained in the preparatory step back to the company, even if the designer in charge himself / herself decides to make such a decision, he / she should take such a matter at an early stage. All parties will be given the opportunity to consider and expedite decision-making for re-schooling. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the number of calibration processes repeated in the formal layout process.

Although the operator inputs the command signals V ₃ , V ₈ and V ₉ in the above embodiments, it is not necessary to input the command signal V ₈ when it is not necessary to lay out the character image. Further, when it is not necessary to lay out the tint image, it is not necessary to input the command signal V ₉ .

[0094]

According to the invention of claim 1, (1) the preparatory process and the layout / coloring process of the calibration image, which have been separately performed conventionally, can be performed consistently in the preparatory process. As a result, it is possible to improve work efficiency and reduce work time and work cost. Further, the present invention can (2) eliminate the need for a complete block making process which has been time-consuming than before, and in this respect also contributes to improvement of work efficiency, work time and work cost reduction. it can. In addition, according to the present invention, (3) the original reading / reproducing result (print finish, etc.) is set by the designer at an earlier stage than the preparatory stage.
It has the effect of making it possible to recognize. Therefore, it is not necessary for the designer to perform the layout work by himself, and the work can be entrusted to the plate making process.

In the inventions according to claims 2 and 3, (4) not only the designer can confirm the calibrated image after the layout at an earlier stage of preparation, but also the correction instruction can be issued on the spot, and The correction instruction can be fed back during the preparatory process. Therefore, the image of the designer can be reflected in the preparatory process, and the calibrated image after the layout finally obtained in the preparatory process can be realized very close to the image of the designer. Therefore, in the present invention, (5) it is possible to sufficiently communicate the intention between the designer and a person who is in charge of the plate-making process, and it is possible to revise in a post-process after the preparatory process or to redo some or all of the process. It is possible to significantly reduce the occurrence of. Further, according to the present invention, (6) the correction feedback is applied in the preparatory process, which is a relatively low work cost, and therefore also in this respect, the work cost can be reduced.

The inventions according to claims 4 and 5 have the effect of enabling the setting of character data and tint area designation data in the document reading / reproducing apparatus, respectively.

The inventions according to claim 6 and claim 7 have the effect that it is possible to use the character image and the tint image, respectively, for confirmation of the designer in the preparatory stage.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a preparatory apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a process diagram showing a design to plate making process when the preparatory apparatus in FIG. 1 is used.

FIG. 3 is a process diagram showing details of a plate making process when the preparatory apparatus in FIG. 1 is used.

FIG. 4 is a process diagram showing details of a plate making ordering / preparatory process when the preparatory apparatus of FIG. 1 is used.

5 is a flowchart showing a preparatory process when the preparatory apparatus in FIG. 1 is used.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a preparatory process when the preparatory apparatus in FIG. 1 is used.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a preparatory step when the preparatory apparatus in FIG. 1 is used.

8 is a flow chart showing a preparatory process when the preparatory apparatus in FIG. 1 is used.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an example of an image on a screen of a rough block and on a monitor.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of layout data determination processing by a CPU.

FIG. 11 is a process diagram showing a design to plate making process in the prior art.

FIG. 12 is a process diagram showing details of a plate making process in a conventional technique.

FIG. 13 is a configuration diagram of a preparatory device in a conventional technique.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 CCD camera 3 original 4 digitizer 5 rough version 6, 7, 8 trimming area 9 CPU (personal computer) 10 monitor 11 keyboard 12 plotter 15 flexible disk 16 screen 17 color printer V ₁ image signal V ₂ position information signal V ₃ , V _8, V ₉ command signal V ₆ layout image signal V ₇ correction command signal

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. An apparatus for deciding layout data of an original required for reading and reproducing the original by an original reading / reproducing apparatus and storing the layout data in a recording medium, wherein the recording medium is the original. In the preparatory device used in the preparatory process in the plate making process for passing the document to the document reading / reproducing device, an image pickup means for photographing the document and outputting an image signal giving the image, and a document preliminarily designed by a designer. A digitizer that generates a position information signal that gives position information of each rough image in the rough block created by sketching the image, and a layout data signal that gives the layout data based on the image signal and the position information signal. Layout data signal generating means for generating a color of the original determined by the designer's instructions. Input means for inputting a command signal containing information, and an electrical layout process and coloring for each rough image of the rough block based on the image signal, the position information signal, the layout data signal and the command signal. A layout image signal generation unit that performs processing to generate a layout image signal that gives a laid-out calibration image; and a display unit that displays the laid-out calibration image according to the layout image signal. And preparatory equipment. 2. The preparatory apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the input unit gives a layout correction command determined by the designer according to a display result of the display unit, in addition to the command signal. With inputting also, based on the image signal, the position information signal, the layout data signal and the correction command signal, the electrical layout process and the coloring process for the laid out calibration image are re-performed again. And a layout image signal correcting means for generating a new layout image signal and outputting the new layout image signal as the layout image signal to the display means. 3. The preparatory apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the layout image signal correction means corrects the layout data signal provided by the layout data signal generation means based on the correction command signal, and the corrected layout. A preparatory apparatus including a layout data signal correction means for generating a data signal as the layout data signal. 4. The preparatory apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command signal is a signal that also includes a command for character data, and the character data is recorded on the recording medium according to the command signal. The preparatory apparatus further comprising a character data storage unit for storing the character data in the storage device. 5. The preparatory apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command signal is a signal that also includes tint area designating data, and the tint area designating data is generated in accordance with the command signal. A pre-preparation device further comprising tint area designation data storage means for storing the data in the recording medium. 6. The preparation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the command signal also includes color information of character data, and the layout image signal generated by the layout image signal generation unit is A preparatory apparatus characterized in that a character image colored in a color corresponding to color information is also given. 7. The preparatory apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the command signal also includes color information of the tint in which a region is designated, and the layout image signal generated by the layout image signal generation means is: A pre-preparation device, which also provides a tint image colored in a color corresponding to the tint color information.