JP2007082060A - Image processing device and connection system for image processings - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize "improvement of reusability" and "a simple system construction" of a connection system for image processings. <P>SOLUTION: The connection system for the image processings is provided with an image reading apparatus which reads a document and obtains computerized image data, an image writing device which prints out image data on transfer paper, a memory device which stores the image data and its incidental information, an external I/F (Interface) device which sends and receives image data to and from an external device, an image data processor 1 which processes the image data from the image reading apparatus, an image data processor 2 which processes the image data from the memory device and a bus controller which connects the above devices. In this case, the first image processor allows the image data processor 1 to perform processing and transmits various incidental information along with the image data to a group of the second image processing apparatuses. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a plurality of image processing apparatuses connected via a network, and an image processing apparatus used in the system.

  As seen in Patent Document 1, a certain image processing apparatus is connected to one or more other image processing apparatuses via communication means, and the image data read by the former image processing apparatus is the former and the latter. 2. Description of the Related Art An image processing connection system is known in which the productivity of copying can be improved by printing with both image processing apparatuses (concatenated copying).

  In recent image processing connection systems, multi-functionalization such as double-sided copying, sorting, and stapling has been proposed.

Further, Patent Document 2 also proposes an image processing connection system that is devised to further improve productivity in consideration of user usage conditions and operational priorities.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-304575 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-169032

  However, the conventional techniques represented by the above are aimed at improving copy productivity and making various functions such as two-sided copying available, and the like, and the accumulated image data proposed in the present invention. There is no description regarding a method for improving the reusability of.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to realize “improvement of reusability” and “simple system configuration” in an image processing connection system. According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the image data stored in the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect is output (reused) by changing the application or setting at the time of storage / storage, the application or setting regarding the color is set. An object of the present invention is to remarkably improve the reusability related to the color of accumulated image data. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, when the image data stored in the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect is output (reused) by changing the application and setting at the time of storage and storage, the application and the setting are changed with respect to the size. It is possible to remarkably improve the reusability regarding the size of the stored image data. According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the size of the image data is reduced when the color reduction mode is set, the bus load in the bus control device is reduced and the processing speed is improved, and the amount of communication data between the image processing devices ( The object of the invention is to improve the processing speed (communication time) by reducing the image data size) and to improve the productivity by increasing the processing speed when not reused. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, when the size reduction mode is set, the size of the image data is reduced to reduce the bus load in the bus control device to improve the processing speed, and communication data between the image processing devices. Since the amount (image data size) is also reduced, the processing speed (communication time) is also improved. As a result, when not reused, the object is to improve the productivity by increasing the processing speed.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 is an image processing connection system that processes image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means. An image processing apparatus used as the first or second image processing apparatus, an image reading apparatus for obtaining image data obtained by reading and digitizing a document, an image writing apparatus for printing image data on a transfer paper, and an image Memory device for accumulating data and incidental information of image data, external I / F device for transmitting / receiving image data to / from external device, image data processing device 1 for processing image data from image reading device, and memory device An image data processing device 2 for processing image data from the image data, and a bus control device for connecting each of the above devices. The image data processing device is the first image processing device. Performing processing by the processing apparatus 1, characterized in that also transmits various supplementary information together with the image data to be transmitted to the second image processing apparatus group.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 2 is an image processing connection system that processes image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means. An image processing apparatus used as the first or second image processing apparatus, an image reading apparatus for obtaining image data obtained by reading and digitizing a document, an image writing apparatus for printing image data on a transfer paper, and an image Memory device for accumulating data and incidental information of image data, external I / F device for transmitting / receiving image data to / from external device, image data processing device 1 for processing image data from image reading device, and memory device The image data processing device 2 that processes image data from the image data and a bus control device that connects the devices described above are provided as the second image processing device. The image data processing apparatus 2 receives image data and various incidental information from the image processing apparatus as the first image processing apparatus described above, and processes the received image data based on the received incidental information. It is characterized by performing.

  The image processing connection system according to claim 3, wherein the image processing connection system processes image data communicated between the first image processing apparatus and the second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means. The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2. When the image data of the original read by the user in the image processing apparatus is stored in the memory device and reused, the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, when the image data processing apparatus 1 reuses the image data. 3. The image processing according to claim 2, wherein a process of unifying the color properties of the image data is performed so that the setting of the number of colors can be changed, and the processed image data and the number of colors designated at the time of reuse are used as supplementary information. On the other hand, in the image processing apparatus according to claim 2, the image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 and the number of colors designated at the time of reuse are received as incidental information, and the image data processing apparatus 2 Thus, the image data is converted into the number of colors corresponding to the incidental information.

  The image processing connection system according to claim 4, wherein the image processing connection system processes image data communicated between the first image processing apparatus and the second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means. The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2. When the image data of the original read by the user in the image processing apparatus is stored in the memory device and reused, the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, when the image data processing apparatus 1 reuses the image data. 3. The image processing according to claim 2, wherein a process for unifying the size of the image data is performed so that the setting of the size can be changed, and the processed image data and a size designated at the time of reuse are used as supplementary information. On the other hand, in the image processing apparatus according to claim 2, the image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 and the size specified at the time of reuse are received as supplementary information and transmitted by the image data processing apparatus 2. In addition, the characteristic of the image data is converted according to the specification of the size at the time of reuse by the accompanying information.

  The image processing connection system according to claim 5, wherein the image processing connection system processes image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means. The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2. When the image data of the document read by the user in the image processing apparatus is stored in the memory device and is not reused, the image data processing apparatus according to claim 1 uses the image data processing apparatus to determine the number of colors at the time of output. 3. A process for converting the color properties of the image data in accordance with the designation of the image data, and transmitting the processed image data and accompanying information indicating that the conversion has been performed to the number of colors at the time of output to the image processing apparatus group according to claim 2 Do On the other hand, in the image processing apparatus according to claim 2, when the incidental information indicating that the image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 has been converted into the number of colors at the time of output is received, image data processing is performed. The apparatus 2 is characterized in that the color number conversion process is not performed.

  The image processing connection system according to claim 6, wherein the image processing connection system processes image data communicated between the first image processing apparatus and the second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means. The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2. When the image data of the original read by the user in the image processing apparatus is stored in the memory device and is not reused, the image data processing apparatus according to claim 1 uses the image data processing apparatus 1 to determine the size at the time of output. The processing for converting the properties of the image data according to the designation is performed, and the processed image data and incidental information indicating that it has been converted to the size at the time of output are transmitted to the group of image processing devices according to claim 2. On the other hand, in the image processing apparatus according to claim 2, when the incidental information indicating that the image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 has been converted into the size at the time of output is received, the image data processing apparatus 2, the size conversion process is not performed.

  As an effect of the inventions according to claims 1 and 2, “improvement of reusability” is mentioned. For example, when the user reuses image data stored / stored in the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, the image data can be output to or used by an application different from the application used for storage / storage. It becomes possible to change to a setting different from the application setting and output. Thereby, reusability improves remarkably. Furthermore, since the properties of the stored and stored image data are unified, the same can be achieved in connection across different models (eg, large to small MFP classes). This indicates that reusability is improved even in a heterogeneous image processing apparatus. The second effect is “simple system configuration”. When focusing on a portion responsible for image processing in the image processing connection system, the connection function is “processing of image data processing device 1 in image processing device according to claim 1 + image data processing in image processing device according to claim 2. This is realized by “processing of apparatus 2”. In the “processing of the image data processing apparatus 1 in the image processing apparatus according to claim 1”, a process of “unifying” into a form effective for reusability is performed, and the image data processing apparatus 2 in the image processing apparatus according to claim 2. In “Processing”, “(Image) processing” is performed in accordance with various output destinations. At that time, “Processing of the image data processing device 1 in the first image processing device” “Second image processing device” The “processing of the image data processing apparatus 2 in FIG. 2” performs the same operation as that in the single MFP operation. When focusing on the portion responsible for image processing, in principle, the connection function can be realized with a simple system configuration that combines the processing at the time of the single MFP operation without specially handling the connection.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, when the image data stored in the image processing apparatus is output (reused) by changing the application or setting at the time of storage / storage, the setting can be changed with respect to the color. It becomes possible, and reusability regarding the color of the stored image data can be remarkably improved. For example, image data in which the single color (magenta) mode is set when the image data is stored can be output in full color when the linked copy is re-output.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the image data stored in the image processing apparatus is output (reused) by changing the application or setting at the time of storage / storing, the setting regarding the size can be changed. This makes it possible to obtain an effect that the reusability regarding the size of the stored image data can be remarkably improved. For example, it is possible to output image data set to 50% reduction at the time of image data accumulation at the same magnification (100%) at the time of linked copy re-output.

  According to the invention of claim 5, since the size of the image data is reduced when the color reduction mode is set, the load on the bus in the bus controller in the master machine and the slave machine is reduced, so that the processing speed is improved. Further, since the amount of communication data between the image processing apparatuses is reduced, the processing speed (communication time) is also improved. Further, since the amount of data flowing between the master machine and the slave machine is also reduced, the communication load is reduced and the processing speed is improved. That is, when not reused, it is possible to improve the productivity by increasing the processing speed. For example, image data in which the single color (magenta) mode at the time of image data storage is set is converted from RGB image data to single color (magenta) data by the image data processing device 1 of the master machine. 3 and the above effect is obtained.

  According to the invention of claim 6, since the size of the image data is reduced when the size reduction mode is set, the bus load in the bus control device in the master machine and the slave machine is reduced, so that the processing speed is improved. Further, since the amount of communication data (image data size) between the image processing apparatuses is reduced, the processing speed (communication time) is also improved. Further, since the amount of data flowing between the master machine and the slave machine is also reduced, the communication load is reduced and the processing speed is improved. That is, when not reused, it is possible to improve the productivity by increasing the processing speed. For example, image data that is set to 50% reduction at the time of image data accumulation is converted into data of 50% by the image data processing device 1 of the master machine, so the image data becomes 25% and the load on the bus is increased. The above effect can be obtained.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  First, FIG. 1 shows an overall configuration diagram of an image processing connection system of the present invention.

  In this figure, this system is composed of one image processing apparatus master machine (20) for a user to perform a desired operation and one or more connected images (in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, one image). It comprises a processing device slave unit (21) and some means for connecting these image processing devices (in the embodiment of FIG. 1, it is a network (22)). Note that the image processing apparatus applicable as the image processing apparatus master machine (20) and the image processing apparatus slave machine (21) constituting this system has the configuration shown in FIG. 2 described later (details will be described later).

  The image processing apparatus master machine (20) receives a desired operation (setting, etc.) when the user uses this system. Also, processing is executed in response to the received request, and an instruction corresponding to the request is given to the image processing apparatus slave device (21) that is the connection destination. In this way, it is called a master machine because it plays the role of a command tower in this system. (Hereafter referred to as the master machine)

  The image processing apparatus slave unit (21) receives an instruction from the master unit (20) and executes processing in accordance with the contents. In this way, it is called a slave machine because it plays the role of receiving an instruction in this system. (Hereafter referred to as slave machine)

  The image processing apparatus master machine (20) in FIG. 1 can also be an image processing apparatus slave machine (21), and conversely, the image processing apparatus slave machine (21) becomes an image processing apparatus master machine (20). Can also be.

  FIG. 2 shows an overall configuration diagram of the image processing apparatus constituting the system.

  The reading device (1) includes a line sensor composed of a CCD photoelectric conversion element, an A / D converter, and a drive circuit thereof, and image data of 8 bits for each of RGB from the density information of the document obtained by scanning the set document. Is generated and output.

  The image data processing device 1 (2) performs processing for unifying the image data from the reading device (1) to a predetermined characteristic and outputs the processed data. The characteristics to be unified are characteristics suitable for changing the output destination when the image data is stored in the MFP and then reused, and will be described in detail later.

  The bus control device (3) is a data bus control device for exchanging various data such as image data and control commands necessary in the image processing device, and also has a bridge function between a plurality of types of bus standards. In this embodiment, the image data processing device 1 (2), the image data processing device 2 (4), and the CPU (6) are connected to each other by a PCI-Express bus, and the HDD is connected by an ATA bus to form an ASIC.

  The image data processing unit 2 (4) performs image processing suitable for an output destination designated by the user on the image data whose characteristics predetermined by the image data processing device 1 (2) are unified, and outputs the image data. Details thereof will be described later.

  The HDD (5) is a large-sized storage device for storing electronic data that is also used in a desktop personal computer. The HDD (5) mainly accumulates image data and accompanying information of the image data in the image processing apparatus. In this embodiment, an ATA bus-connected hard disk standardized by expanding IDE is used.

  The CPU (6) is a microprocessor that controls the entire control of the digital image processing apparatus.

  In this embodiment, an integrated CPU is used in which a + α function is added to a CPU core that has been widespread in recent years. In this embodiment, a PMC RM11100 uses a CPU in which a connection function with a general-purpose standard I / F and a bus connection function using a crossbar switch are integrated.

  The memory (7) stores temporarily exchanged data to absorb the speed difference when bridging between multiple types of bus standards and the processing speed difference of the connected components themselves, This is a volatile memory that temporarily stores programs and intermediate processing data when controlling the image processing apparatus. Since the CPU is required to perform high-speed processing, the system is activated by a boot program stored in the ROM at the normal activation, and thereafter, the processing is performed by a program developed in a memory (7) that can be accessed at high speed. In this embodiment, a standardized DIMM used for a personal computer is used.

  When the plotter I / F device (8) receives CMYK image data sent via the general-purpose standard I / F integrated with the CPU (6), it outputs it to the dedicated I / F of the plotter device (9). Perform the bus bridge processing. The general-purpose standard I / F used in this embodiment is a PCI-Express bus.

  When the plotter device (9) receives the image data composed of CMYK, the plotter device (9) outputs the received image data to the transfer paper using an electrophotographic process using a laser beam.

  S. B. (13) is one of chip sets used for personal computers, and is a general-purpose electronic device called South Bridge. A bus bridge function often used in constructing a CPU system mainly including a PCI-Express and an ISA bridge is formed as a general-purpose circuit. In this embodiment, the bus is bridged with a ROM.

  The ROM (14) is a memory for storing a program (including boot) when the CPU controls the digital image processing apparatus.

  The operation display device (10) is a part that performs the user interface with the digital image processing device, and is composed of an LCD (liquid crystal display device) and a key switch, and displays various states and operation methods of the device on the LCD. Detect key switch input. In this embodiment, the CPU (6) is connected via a PCI-Express bus.

  The line I / F device (11) is a device for connecting a PCI-Express bus and a telephone line, and this apparatus enables the image processing apparatus to exchange various data via the telephone line.

  A FAX (15) is a normal facsimile, and exchanges image data with the image processing apparatus via a telephone line.

  The external I / F device (12) is a device that connects a PCI-Express bus and an external device. This device enables the image processing apparatus to exchange various data with the external device. In this embodiment, a network (Ethernet) is used for the connection I / F. That is, the image processing apparatus is connected to the network via the external I / F device (12).

  The PC (16) is a so-called personal computer, and the user performs various controls and input / output of image data with respect to the image processing apparatus via application software and drivers installed in the personal computer.

  The image processing apparatus (17) is an image processing apparatus having the same configuration as the image processing apparatus having the configuration shown in the left side of FIG. 2 (inside the apparatus) described above, and various types of image processing apparatuses required for the connection operation of the system are described. Inputs and outputs control, incidental information, and image data.

  The “concatenated copy operation” in the system configured as described above will be described below. In the description, in order to clarify whether the number of each part is the master machine (20) side or the slave machine (21) side, the following numbering is used.

  That is, in the case of the reading device (1) in the master machine (20), the reading device (20-1) is used, and in the case of the external I / F device (12) in the slave machine (21), the external I / F device ( 21-12).

  Now, the user sets an original on the reading device (20-1) with the master machine (20), and inputs a setting of a desired mode and the like and an input of start of linked copying to the operation display device (20-10).

  The operation display device (20-10) converts the information input from the user into control command data inside the device and issues it. The issued control command data is notified to the CPU (20-6) via the PCI-Express bus.

  The CPU (20-6) executes a linked copy operation process program in accordance with the linked copy start control command data, and sequentially performs settings and operations necessary for the linked copy operation. The operation process is described below in order.

  The RGB 8-bit digital image data obtained by scanning the document with the reading device (20-1) is unified to the characteristics predetermined by the image data processing device 1 (20-2), and the bus control device (20 -3).

  When receiving the RGB image data from the image data processing device 1 (20-2), the bus control device (20-3) stores it in the memory (20-7) via the CPU (20-6). At that time, desired operation information (accompanying information) performed by the user is also accumulated.

  From here, the operation branches to the operation on the master machine (20) side and the connection operation on the slave machine (21) side. However, the operation on the master machine (20) side is the same as the operation in the single function, so the explanation will be given. Will be omitted.

  Below, the connection operation | movement with the slave machine (21) side is demonstrated.

  The RGB image data and incidental information stored in the memory (20-7) are sent to the operation on the master machine (20) side and the external I / F device (20-12) via the CPU (20-6). .

  The external I / F device (20-12) transmits the received RGB image data and incidental information to the connected slave device (21) connected via the network. In addition, although one or more slave machines (21) to be connected are possible, in the present embodiment, the number is one. This is because even if there are two or more units, the operations of the slave units (21) are equivalent.

  The external I / F device (21-12) of the slave device (21) receives the RGB image data and the accompanying information from the master device (20), converts them into control command data inside the device, and issues them. The issued control command data is notified to the CPU (21-6) via the PCI-Express bus.

  The CPU (21-6) executes a linked copy operation process program in accordance with linked copy start control command data as a slave machine, and sequentially performs settings and operations necessary for the linked copy operation. The operation process is described below in order.

  The RGB image data and supplementary information received by the external I / F device (21-12) are sent to the image data processing device 2 (21-4) via the bus control device (21-3).

  The image data processing device 2 (21-4) converts the RGB image data into CMYK image data for plotter output in accordance with the received supplementary information and outputs it.

  When the bus control device (21-3) receives the CMYK image data from the image data processing device 2 (21-4), it stores it in the memory (21-7) via the CPU (21-6).

  Next, the CMYK image data stored in the memory (21-7) is sent to the plotter device (21-9) via the CPU (21-6) and the plotter I / F device (21-8).

  The plotter device (21-9) outputs the received CMYK image data to transfer paper, and a copy of the document is generated.

  Here, an implementation column according to claims 1 and 2 will be described.

  In other words, image data obtained by scanning a document with a single function of the master machine is distributed by scanner, stored and stored in the image processing apparatus, and then the image data stored and stored by the connection function of the master machine and the slave machine is connected. The operation of reusing as a copy will be described.

  First, the operation of a single function that distributes image data obtained by scanning a document by scanner and stores and saves it in the image processing apparatus will be described.

  The single function of the master machine is “scanner distribution operation + storage / storage operation in HDD”.

  The user sets a document on the reading device (20-1) with the master device (20), and performs setting of a desired mode and the like and input of scanner distribution start to the operation display device (20-10).

  The operation display device (20-10) converts the information input from the user into control command data inside the device and issues it. The issued control command data is notified to the CPU (20-6) via the PCI-Express bus.

  The CPU (20-6) executes a scanner distribution operation process program in accordance with the scanner distribution start control command data, and sequentially performs settings and operations necessary for the scanner distribution operation. The operation process is described below in order.

  The RGB 8-bit digital image data obtained by scanning the document with the reading device (20-1) is unified to the characteristics predetermined by the image data processing device 1 (20-2), and the bus control device (20 -3).

  FIG. 3 shows a processing block diagram of the image data processing apparatus 1 (20-2), which will be described in order.

  The γ conversion (20-30) unifies the brightness of the RGB image data received from the reading device (20-1) to a predetermined characteristic. In this embodiment, the lightness is converted into a linear characteristic.

  The filter process (20-31) unifies the sharpness of the RGB image data to a predetermined characteristic. In this embodiment, when the reference chart is scanned, conversion is performed so that the MTF characteristic value predetermined for each number of lines is obtained.

  The color conversion (20-32) unifies the colors of the RGB image data into predetermined characteristics. In this embodiment, the color space is converted to be an Adobe-RGB color space defined by Adobe.

  The scaling process (20-33) unifies the size (resolution) of the RGB image data to a predetermined characteristic. In this embodiment, the size (resolution) is converted to 600 dpi.

  When receiving the RGB image data from the image data processing device 1 (20-2), the bus control device (20-3) stores it in the memory (20-7) via the CPU (20-6).

  The RGB image data stored in the memory (20-7) is transmitted to the HDD (20-5) via the CPU (20-6) and the bus control device (20-3), and is stored in the HDD (20-5). Stored and stored in At that time, desired operation information (accompanying information) performed by the user is also stored and stored together.

  Thereafter, as described above, the RGB image data in the memory (20-7) is output to the external I / F device (20-11) via the image data processing device 2 (20-4), and scanner distribution is performed. The

  FIG. 4 shows a processing block diagram of the image data processing apparatus 2 (20-4), and operations at this time will be described in order.

  The filter process (20-50) corrects the sharpness of the RGB image data so that the reproducibility in the case of scanner distribution is improved. Specifically, sharpening / smoothing processing is performed according to desired mode information. For example, in the character mode, a sharpening process is performed to make the character clear / clear, and in the photo mode, a smoothing process is performed to smoothly express gradation.

  In color conversion (20-51), when 8-bit RGB data is received, it is converted into a designated color space. In the present embodiment, each color is converted to 8 bits in the sRGB color space which is common in scanner distribution.

  In the scaling process (20-52), the size (resolution) of the sRGB image data is converted into the size (resolution) transmitted / received by the designated scanner delivery. In this embodiment, the main scanning is converted to 200 dpi × sub-scanning: 200 dpi.

  In the gradation processing (20-53), gradation number conversion processing is performed according to the gradation processing capability transmitted / received by the designated scanner distribution. In this embodiment, assuming that 160,000 colors of 8 bits for each RGB are designated, gradation processing is not particularly performed.

  Next, an operation of reusing image data stored and stored in the HDD (20-5) as a linked copy will be described.

  The connection function between the master machine and the slave machine is “to reuse the stored and stored image data as a linked copy.

  The user inputs the setting of a desired mode and the like and the start of linked copy to the operation display device (20-10) for the image data stored and stored in the HDD (20-5) when the scanner delivery operation is performed earlier. .

  The operation display device (20-10) converts the information input from the user into control command data inside the device and issues it. The issued control command data is notified to the CPU (20-6) via the PCI-Express bus.

  The CPU (20-6) executes a linked copy operation process program in accordance with the linked copy start control command data, and sequentially performs settings and operations necessary for the linked copy operation. The operation process is described below in order.

  The bus control device (20-3) outputs the RGB image data and supplementary information stored in the HDD (20-5) to the memory (20-7) via the CPU.

  From here, the operation branches to the operation on the master device (20) side and the connection operation on the slave device (21) side, but the operation on the master device (20) side is the same as that in the single function operation, so the explanation is Omit.

  Below, the connection operation | movement with the slave machine (21) side is demonstrated.

  The information input from the user is additionally generated or changed as new incidental information to the incidental information output to the memory (20-7), and is output to the memory (20-7).

  The RGB image data and incidental information output to the memory (20-7) are sent to the operation on the master machine (20) side and the external I / F device (20-12) via the CPU (20-6). .

  The external I / F device (20-12) transmits the received RGB image data and incidental information to the connected slave device (21) connected via the network.

  The external I / F device (21-12) of the slave unit (21) receives RGB image data and incidental information from the master unit (20), and converts them into control command data inside the device based on the incidental information. And issue. The issued control command data is notified to the CPU (21-6) via the PCI-Express bus.

  The CPU (21-6) executes a linked copy operation process program in accordance with linked copy start control command data as a slave machine, and sequentially performs settings and operations necessary for the linked copy operation. The operation process is described below in order.

  The RGB image data received by the external I / F device (21-12) is sent to the image data processing device 2 (21-4) via the bus control device (21-3).

  The image data processing device 2 (21-4) converts the received RGB image data into CMYK image data for plotter output and outputs it.

  When the bus control device (21-3) receives the CMYK image data from the image data processing device 2 (21-4), it stores it in the memory (21-7) via the CPU (21-6).

  Next, the CMYK image data stored in the memory (21-7) is sent to the plotter device (21-9) via the CPU (21-6) and the plotter I / F device (21-8).

  The plotter device (21-9) outputs the received CMYK image data to transfer paper, and a copy of the document is generated.

  FIG. 4 shows a processing block diagram of the image data processing apparatus 2 (21-4), and the operation at this time will be described in order.

  The filter process (21-50) corrects the sharpness of the RGB image data so that the reproducibility when output to the plotter device (21-9) is improved. Specifically, sharpening / smoothing processing is performed according to desired mode information (accompanying information). For example, in the character mode, a sharpening process is performed to make the character clear / clear, and in the photo mode, a smoothing process is performed to smoothly express gradation.

  In the color conversion (21-51), when RGB 8-bit data is received, it is converted into CMYK 8-bit data which is a color space for the plotter device. At this time, the saturation is also adjusted in accordance with the mode information (supplementary information) desired by the user.

  The scaling process (21-52) converts the size (resolution) of the CMYK image data according to the reproduction performance of the plotter device (21-9). In this embodiment, since the performance of the plotter (21-9) is 600 dpi output, no particular conversion is performed.

  In the gradation processing (21-53), when 8 bits of CMYK are received, gradation number conversion processing according to the gradation processing capability of the plotter device (21-9) is performed. In this embodiment, the number of gradations is converted into 2 bits of CMYK using an error diffusion method which is one of pseudo halftone processing.

  As a result, for the data stored / stored in the image processing apparatus, an output destination different from that at the time of input (in this embodiment, a case where the application is different is shown. At the time of input: scanner distribution, at the time of output: linked copy) In this case, the output destination can be changed without any change in image quality during normal operation (operation when the output destination is designated from the beginning), and reusability is significantly improved.

  In addition, when focusing on the parts responsible for image processing (image data processing device 1 (2) and image data processing device 2 (4)), in principle, the connection is not treated specially and the operation is performed as a single function. The connection function can be realized with a simple system configuration that combines the processes in.

  Next, an embodiment according to claim 3 will be described.

  In other words, image data obtained by scanning a document with a single function of the master machine is stored and stored in the image processing apparatus, and then the image data stored and stored with the connection function of the master machine and the slave machine is reused. The operation regarding the handling of color data will be described.

  First, a description will be given of a case where image data obtained by scanning a document by a single function of the master machine is stored and stored in the image processing apparatus. In the present system according to claims 1 and 2, when a single function is used, the user can set a mode related to color.

  For example, in a copy operation, a color mode that reproduces a color original in color, a monochrome mode that reproduces in black and white, a single color mode that reproduces in a single color such as cyan or magenta, a color conversion mode that converts a specified color into another color, etc. There is.

  At the stage of storing and saving image data by a single function of the master machine, the color conversion (20-32) of the image data processing apparatus 1 (20-2) is all RGB regardless of the color mode setting specified by the user. The color of the image data is unified to a predetermined characteristic, and stored and stored in the HDD (20-5). In this embodiment, the color space is converted so as to be an Adobe-RGB color space defined by Adobe. The color conversion method is a known three-dimensional lookup method.

  Next, reuse of image data stored and stored by the connecting function of the master machine and the slave machine will be described. In the present system according to claims 1 and 2, the user can set the color-related mode even when using the connection function.

  For example, even in linked copy operations, color mode that reproduces color for a color document, monochrome mode that reproduces in black and white, single color mode that reproduces in a single color such as cyan or magenta, and other color conversion modes that convert a specified color to another color Etc.

  When reusing the image data stored and saved by the connecting function of the master machine and the slave machine, the mode setting information of the color specified by the user together with the image data is transmitted as supplementary information from the master machine to the slave machine.

  The color conversion (21-52) of the image data processing device 2 (21-4) of the slave unit is designated from Adobe-RGB: 8-bit image data according to the transmitted auxiliary information (color mode information). Conversion to a different color. As a conversion method in this embodiment, a known three-dimensional lookup method is adopted.

  As a result, for data stored and saved in the image processing device, for various mode settings related to colors at the time of input, even if the mode setting or output destination is changed at the time of re-output, normal operation (first time The operation can be changed without any change in image quality, and the reusability is remarkably improved.

  As a specific example, a single color (magenta) mode is set by copying with a single function of the master machine, stored and stored in the image processing apparatus, and then stored and stored by the connecting function of the master machine and the slave machine. When reusing image data as a concatenated copy in the full color mode, it is clear that the reusability is remarkably improved.

  Next, an embodiment according to claim 4 will be described.

  In other words, image data obtained by scanning a document with a single function of the master machine is stored and stored in the image processing apparatus, and then the image data stored and stored with the connection function of the master machine and the slave machine is reused. The operation regarding the handling of the size will be described.

  First, a description will be given of a case where image data obtained by scanning a document by a single function of the master machine is stored and stored in the image processing apparatus. In the present system according to claims 1 and 2, when the single function is used, the user can set the mode related to the size.

  For example, the copy operation has a mode for changing the size of an original such as enlargement / reduction. In addition, there is a mode in which A4 size: two originals are collected on A4 size: one transfer sheet.

  At the stage of storing and saving image data by a single function of the master machine, the scaling process (20-33) of the image data processing apparatus 1 (20-2) is all performed regardless of the mode setting of the size specified by the user. The sizes of the RGB image data are unified to predetermined characteristics, and are stored and stored in the HDD (20-5). In this embodiment, the resolution is 600 dpi. In addition, as a scaling process method, a method of digitally calculating interpolation from surrounding pixels with respect to a known target position is adopted.

  Next, a description will be given of a case where image data stored and stored by the connecting function of the master machine and the slave machine is reused. In the present system according to claims 1 and 2, the user can set the mode related to the size even when the connecting function is used.

  For example, a linked copy operation also has a size change mode such as enlargement / reduction for an original. In addition, there is a mode in which A4 size: two originals are collected on A4 size: one transfer sheet.

  When reusing the image data stored and stored by the connecting function of the master machine and the slave machine, the mode setting information of the size specified by the user is transmitted to the slave machine from the master machine as the auxiliary information together with the image data.

  The scaling process (21-52) of the image data processing apparatus 2 (21-4) of the slave machine converts the image data into a designated size according to the transmitted incidental information (size mode information). As a conversion method in this embodiment, a method of digitally calculating interpolation from surrounding pixels with respect to a known target position is adopted.

  As a result, for data stored and stored in the image processing device, for various mode settings related to the size at the time of input, even if the mode setting or output destination is changed at the time of re-output, normal operation (initially The operation can be changed without any change in image quality, and the reusability is remarkably improved.

  As a specific example, 50% reduction is set by copying with a single function of the master machine, stored and stored in the image processing apparatus, and then the image data stored and stored by the connecting function of the master machine and the slave machine is stored. It is obvious that the reusability is remarkably improved when reusing at the same magnification (100%) as a linked copy.

  Next, the present embodiment according to claim 5 will be described.

  That is, the operation regarding the handling of colors when using the linked copy function of the master machine and the slave machine will be described. In the present system according to claims 1 and 2, when using the linked copy function, the user can set a mode related to color.

  For example, in a linked copy operation, a color mode for reproducing a color document in color, a monochrome mode for reproducing in black and white, a single color mode for reproducing in a single color such as cyan or magenta, a color conversion mode for converting a specified color into another color, etc. There is.

  When concatenating and copying image data scanned by the master machine, the image data processing apparatus 1 (20-2) of the master machine performs conversion from RGB: 8-bit image data to a designated color. As a conversion method in this embodiment, a known three-dimensional lookup method is adopted.

  The converted image data and incidental information (color mode information and information indicating that conversion has been performed according to the mode information) are transmitted from the master machine to the slave machine, and the bus controller (21-3) and CPU (21) of the slave machine. -6), processed by the image data processing device 2 (21-4) via the memory (21-7) and sent to the designated output destination. However, the color conversion (21-51) of the image data processing device 2 (21-4) does not operate at this time.

  As a result, if the number of colors is to be reduced, such as single color copy, for example, in the case of not storing and saving in the image processing apparatus, but for a variety of mode settings relating to colors, the image data processing apparatus 1 (20- 2) Since the number of colors is reduced and the amount of data flowing in the master machine, in the slave machine, and between the master machine and the slave machine is reduced, the storage, storage and re-output (reuse) of <Claim 3> It is possible to perform high-speed processing without any change in image quality, and image processing productivity can be improved.

  Next, the present embodiment according to claim 6 will be described.

  That is, the operation regarding the handling of the size when using the linked copy function of the master machine and the slave machine will be described. In the present system according to claims 1 and 2, when using the linked copy function, the user can set a mode related to size.

  For example, the copy operation has a mode for changing the size of an original such as enlargement / reduction. In addition, there is a mode in which A4 size: two originals are collected on A4 size: one transfer sheet.

  When the image data scanned by the master machine is concatenated and copied, the scaling process (20-33) of the image data processing apparatus 1 (20-2) of the master machine converts the image data to a specified size. As a conversion method in this embodiment, a known three-dimensional lookup method is adopted.

  The converted image data and accompanying information (size mode information and information indicating that conversion has been performed according to the mode information) are transmitted from the master machine to the slave machine, and the bus controller (21-3) and CPU (21) of the slave machine. -6), processed by the image data processing device 2 (21-4) via the memory (21-7) and sent to the designated output destination. However, at this time, the scaling process (21-52) of the image data processing apparatus 2 (21-4) does not operate at all.

  As a result, when the image data is not stored or stored in the image processing apparatus, the image data processing apparatus 1 (20-2) of the master machine is used when the size is reduced, for example, when the size is reduced, such as reduced copy, for various mode settings relating to the size. The size is reduced and the amount of data flowing in the master machine, slave machine, and between the master machine and slave machine is reduced. Therefore, what is the image quality when storing, saving and re-output (reuse) according to <Claim 4>? It is possible to perform high-speed processing without changing the image quality, and the productivity of image processing can be improved.

  Although the best mode for carrying out the present invention has been described above, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to the above and can be variously modified without departing from the gist thereof. .

It is a figure shown about the structure of the image processing connection system which concerns on the best form for implementing this invention. It is a figure shown about the block configuration etc. of the image processing apparatus which comprises the image processing connection system of FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a specific configuration of the image processing apparatus 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a specific configuration of an image processing apparatus 2. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

20 Image processing apparatus master machine 21 Image processing apparatus slave machine 22 Network

Claims (6)

As the first or second image processing apparatus in an image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means An image processing apparatus used,
An image reading device for obtaining image data obtained by electronically reading a document;
An image writing device for printing image data on transfer paper;
A memory device for storing image data and accompanying information of the image data;
An external I / F device that transmits and receives image data to and from an external device;
An image data processing device 1 for processing image data from the image reading device;
An image data processing device 2 for processing image data from the memory device;
A bus control device for connecting the above devices,
The first image processing apparatus, wherein the image data processing apparatus 1 performs processing and transmits various incidental information together with image data to be transmitted to the second image processing apparatus group. . As the first or second image processing apparatus in an image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means An image processing apparatus used,
An image reading device for obtaining image data obtained by electronically reading a document;
An image writing device for printing image data on transfer paper;
A memory device for storing image data and accompanying information of the image data;
An external I / F device that transmits and receives image data to and from an external device;
An image data processing device 1 for processing image data from the image reading device;
An image data processing device 2 for processing image data from the memory device;
A bus control device for connecting the above devices,
The second image processing apparatus receives image data and various incidental information from the image processing apparatus as the first image processing apparatus according to claim 1, and receives the received image data for the received image data. An image processing apparatus, wherein the image data processing apparatus 2 performs processing based on incidental information. An image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means,
The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, when storing image data of a document read by a user in a memory device and reusing it,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The image data processing device 1 performs a process for unifying the color properties of the image data so that the setting of the number of colors can be changed when the image data is reused, and the processed image data and the color specified at the time of reuse. While transmitting the number as incidental information to the image processing device group according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
A process of receiving image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 and the number of colors specified at the time of reuse as incidental information, and converting the image data into the number of colors according to the incidental information by the image data processing apparatus 2 The image processing connection system characterized by performing. An image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means,
The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, when storing image data of a document read by a user in a memory device and reusing it,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The image data processing device 1 performs a process for unifying the size of the image data so that the setting of the size can be changed when it is reused, and the processed image data and the size specified at the time of reuse are attached information. While transmitting to the image processing device group according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
The image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 and the size designated at the time of reuse are received as supplementary information, and the image data processing device 2 performs the property of the image data according to the designation of the size at the time of reuse by the supplementary information. An image processing connection system characterized by converting image data. An image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means,
The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, when image data of a document read by a user is stored in a memory device and is not reused,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, the image data processing apparatus 1 performs a process of converting the color property of the image data in accordance with the designation of the number of colors at the time of output, and the processed image data and the output data at the time of output. While transmitting incidental information indicating that the number of colors has been converted to the image processing apparatus group according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
When the image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 is received and accompanying information indicating that it has been converted into the number of colors at the time of output is received, the image data processing apparatus 2 does not perform color number conversion processing. An image processing connection system characterized by that. An image processing connection system for processing image data communicated between a first image processing apparatus and a second image processing apparatus group connected via some communication means,
The first image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 1, while the second image processing device is the image processing device according to claim 2,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, when image data of a document read by a user is stored in a memory device and is not reused,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
3. The image data processing apparatus 1 performs processing for converting the properties of the image data in accordance with the size specification at the time of output, and the additional information indicating that the processed image data and the size at the time of output have been converted. While transmitting to a group of image processing devices,
In the image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
When the image data from the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 is received and accompanying information indicating that the image data has been converted to the output size has been received, the image data processing apparatus 2 does not perform size conversion processing. A featured image processing connection system.

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