JP2007144740A - Image forming device, its control method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device which permits an accurate and simple performance of the correction of a printing position at an optional position of the right and left or the lateral direction of a surface, and its control method and a program. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming device stores correction information to correct the image forming position of an image to be formed in each of split areas splitting a recording medium into a plurality of areas as correction information to correct the amount of dislocation of the scanning line of exposure light with respect to an exposure light scanning direction on an image carrier. The device splits image data input in accordance with the correction information. The device converts the split image data by using the correction information corresponding to a split area to which the image data belongs. The device forms an image on a recording medium by using the converted image data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention uses an image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium. The present invention relates to an image forming technique for forming an image based on image data.

  In recent years, in order to increase the image forming speed in an electrophotographic color image forming apparatus, the same number of developing devices and photosensitive drums as the number of color materials are provided, and images of different colors are sequentially provided on an image conveying belt or a recording medium. The number of tandem color image forming apparatuses that transfer the image is increasing. In this tandem color image forming apparatus, it is already known that there are a plurality of factors that cause registration deviation, and various countermeasures have been proposed for each factor.

  One factor is the non-uniformity of the lens of the deflection scanning device, the mounting position shift, and the mounting position shift of the deflection scanning device to the color image forming apparatus main body. In that case, the scan line is inclined or bent, and the degree of the change differs for each color, resulting in registration shift.

  As a method for coping with this registration error, Patent Document 1 discloses that in the assembling process of the deflection scanning device, the amount of bending of the scanning line is measured using an optical sensor, and the lens is mechanically rotated to scan the scanning line. A method of fixing with an adhesive after adjusting the bending of is described.

  In Patent Document 2, in the step of assembling the deflection scanning device into the color image forming apparatus main body, the inclination of the scanning line is measured using an optical sensor, and the deflection scanning device is mechanically tilted to tilt the scanning line. A method of assembling the color image forming apparatus main body after adjusting the above is described.

  Further, Patent Document 3 describes a method of measuring the inclination of a scanning line and the amount of bending using an optical sensor, correcting bitmap image data so as to cancel them, and forming the corrected image. Has been. In this method, registration deviation is electrically corrected by processing image data. For this reason, the method described in Patent Document 3 eliminates the need for a mechanical adjustment member and an adjustment process during assembly, and thus is less expensive than the methods described in Patent Documents 1 and 2. Can be dealt with.

  As in Patent Document 3, electrical registration deviation correction is divided into correction for each pixel and correction for less than one pixel. In the correction for each pixel, as shown in FIG. 4, the pixels are offset in the sub-scanning direction for each pixel according to the correction amount of the inclination and the curve. For correction of less than one pixel, as shown in FIG. 5, the gradation value of the bitmap image data is adjusted by pixels before and after in the sub-scanning direction. By performing the correction of less than one pixel, it is possible to eliminate an unnatural step at the offset boundary caused by the correction in units of one pixel and smooth the image.

  Further, as a method for dealing with registration deviation correction processing in controller processing, Patent Document 4 receives a positional deviation amount of each of a plurality of component images in a transmission unit that transmits a plurality of component surface images. Next, a configuration is described in which positional deviation correction is performed on each plane image by controlling the timing of transmitting a plane image of a plurality of components according to the received positional deviation amount.

Further, in Patent Document 5, as a configuration for correcting the positional deviation for each color, the color misregistration is adjusted by shifting the exposure start timing for each color with respect to the printing start position deviation caused by the element control of the exposure head. How to do is described.
JP 2002-116394 A JP 2003-241131 A JP 2004-170755 A JP-A-10-243248 Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-41178

  However, the conventional example in the controller processing has the following drawbacks.

  That is, Patent Document 4 aims to adjust the positional deviation for each surface by controlling the data transmission timing, and corrects the printing position at the right or left of the surface or an arbitrary position and the position for each color. No mention is made of a process for preventing deviation.

  Further, Patent Document 5 aims to adjust the color shift by shifting the exposure start timing for each color with respect to the print start position shift caused by the element control of the exposure head. For this reason, there is no mention of correcting the printing position at the left or right side of the surface or at an arbitrary position and processing for preventing a positional deviation for each color.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and is an image forming apparatus capable of easily and accurately executing correction of a printing position at an arbitrary position on the left and right of the surface or in the lateral direction of the surface. It is an object to provide a control method and program thereof.

In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is,
An image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium An image forming apparatus for forming an image based on image data,
As correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier, the image forming position of the image formed in each divided area dividing the recording medium into a plurality of areas. Storage means for storing correction information for correction;
Dividing means for dividing the input image data in accordance with the correction information;
Conversion means for converting the image data divided by the dividing means using correction information corresponding to the divided area to which the image data belongs;
Forming means for forming an image on the recording medium using the image data converted by the conversion means.

Preferably, determination means for determining whether or not a height in a direction orthogonal to the exposure scanning direction calculated based on the correction information is within a threshold range.
Correction means for correcting the width of the divided region based on the determination result of the determination means;
Regenerating means for regenerating the correction information based on the width corrected by the correcting means;
Update means for updating the correction information stored in the storage means with the correction information regenerated by the regeneration means.

Preferably, the image processing apparatus further includes outline processing means for executing outline processing on the line image data in the image data converted by the conversion means when the input image data includes line image data.
The forming unit forms an image on the recording medium using the image data generated by the outline processing unit.

Preferably, the image processing apparatus further includes determination means for determining whether or not the input image data includes character string image data parallel to XY coordinates of an image forming area on the recording medium.
When the character string image data is included as a result of the determination by the determination means, the conversion means determines the image formation position of each character image data for each character image data constituting the character string image data. Conversion is performed using correction information corresponding to the divided area to which the image data belongs.

Preferably, character information storage means for storing character information related to character image data to be converted by the conversion means;
A determination means for determining whether or not the input image data includes the character image data to be converted stored in the character information storage means;
The dividing unit divides image data including the character image data according to the correction information based on a determination result of the determining unit,
The converting unit converts the image data divided by the dividing unit using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs.

Preferably, as a result of the determination by the determination unit, the input image data includes another character image data that is not the character image data to be converted stored in the character information storage unit. A registration means for registering bitmap data corresponding to the different character image data in a storage medium,
The forming means forms an image on the recording medium using the bitmap data registered in the storage medium for the other character image data.

Preferably, the developing unit includes a developing unit corresponding to each of a plurality of colors.
The storage means stores correction information for each color of the plurality of colors.

  Preferably, the developing units corresponding to the plurality of colors are arranged in parallel along the conveyance direction of the recording medium.

  Preferably, the developing unit includes a developing unit in which developing units corresponding to a plurality of colors are integrated.

In order to achieve the above object, a method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is,
An image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium An image forming apparatus control method for forming an image based on image data,
As correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier, the image forming position of the image formed in each divided area dividing the recording medium into a plurality of areas. A storage step of storing correction information for correction in a storage medium;
A dividing step of dividing the input image data in accordance with the correction information;
A conversion step of converting the image data divided in the division step using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs;
And a forming step of forming an image on the recording medium using the image data converted in the converting step.

In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is,
An image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium A program for causing a computer to execute control of an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on image data,
As correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier, the image forming position of the image formed in each divided area dividing the recording medium into a plurality of areas. A storage step of storing correction information for correction in a storage medium;
A dividing step of dividing the input image data in accordance with the correction information;
A conversion step of converting the image data divided in the division step using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs;
Using the image data converted in the conversion step, the computer executes a forming step for forming an image on the recording medium.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, a control method therefor, and a program capable of easily and accurately executing correction of a printing position at an arbitrary position in the horizontal direction of the surface.

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

  First, an apparatus configuration for realizing each embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[Image forming apparatus]
FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The image forming apparatus 100 is realized by, for example, an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) that is a multifunction machine that realizes a plurality of types of functions. The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to the host PC 120 via the network 118 and connected to the host PC 121 via the network 119.

  In particular, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image reading unit that electronically reads a paper document and an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image signal obtained from the image reading unit. The image signal can be transmitted to the host PC 121 functioning as a management PC via the network 119.

  The management PC 121 is a normal PC and includes various components such as an image storage unit, an image processing unit, a display unit, and an input unit. Some of the components are integrated into the image forming apparatus 100. It may be configured.

  The networks 118 and 119 are typically any one of the Internet, LAN, WAN, telephone line, dedicated digital line, ATM, frame relay line, communication satellite line, cable TV line, data broadcasting wireless line, and the like. . Alternatively, the networks 118 and 119 are so-called communication networks realized by a combination of these, and it is only necessary that data can be transmitted and received.

  Each of the host PCs 120 and 121 has standard components mounted on a general-purpose computer. The standard components include, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, hard disk, external storage device, network interface, display, keyboard, mouse, and the like.

  In FIG. 1A, an image reading unit 110 including a document table and an auto document feeder (ADF) irradiates a bundle or one document image with a light source (not shown), and reflects a document reflection image on a solid-state image sensor with a lens. To form an image. Thereby, the image reading unit 110 obtains a raster-like image reading signal from the solid-state imaging device as a raster image having a predetermined density (for example, 600 DPI).

  Although a paper document will be described as an example of a printed material read by the image reading unit 110, a printed material made of a recording medium other than paper (for example, an OHP sheet, a transparent original such as a film, a cloth, or the like) is used as an image reading unit. 110 may be read.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 100 has a copying function for printing an image corresponding to the image reading signal on a recording medium by the printing unit 112. In particular, when one original image is copied, this image reading signal is processed by the data processing unit 115 to generate a recording signal, which is printed on the recording medium by the printing unit 112. On the other hand, when copying a plurality of document images, the storage unit 111 temporarily stores one recording signal and then sequentially outputs the recording signal to the printing unit 112 for printing on a recording medium.

  On the other hand, the recording signal output from the host PC 120 is received by the data processing unit 115 via the network 118 and the network I / F 114, and the data processing unit 115 converts the recording signal into raster data that can be recorded by the printing unit 112. Convert. Thereafter, the raster data is printed on the recording medium by the printing unit 112.

  Various print controls using the printing unit 112 are realized by the printer controller 103.

  An operator's instruction to the image forming apparatus 100 is performed from a key operation unit equipped in the image forming apparatus 100 and an operation unit 117 including a keyboard and a mouse connected to the host PC 121. These series of operations are performed by a data processing unit. It is controlled by a control unit (not shown) in 115. Further, the display of the operation input status and the image data being processed is performed on the display unit 116.

The storage unit 111 is also controlled by the host PC 121, and data transmission / reception and control between the image forming apparatus 100 and the host PC 121 are performed via the network I / F 113 and the network 119.

In the image forming apparatus 100, the display unit 116 and the operation unit 117 realize a user interface that provides a user with various operations and displays for executing various processes described later.

  Next, a tandem color image forming apparatus that employs an intermediate transfer member, which is an example of an electrophotographic color image forming apparatus, will be described with reference to FIG. 1B.

  FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of a tandem color image forming apparatus employing an intermediate transfer member as an example of an electrophotographic color image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the printing unit 112 in the electrophotographic color image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

  The printing unit 112 drives exposure light according to the exposure time processed by the printer controller 103 to form an electrostatic latent image. Next, the electrostatic latent image is developed to form a single color toner image, the single color toner images are superimposed to form a multicolor toner image, and the multicolor toner image is transferred to the recording medium 11. The multicolor toner image is fixed on the recording medium 11.

  This color image forming apparatus has four charging means for charging the photoreceptors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K for each of the yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) stations. Injection chargers 23Y, 23M, 23C, and 23K. Each injection charger is provided with sleeves 23YS, 23MS, 23CS, and 23KS.

  The photoconductors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K are configured by applying an organic optical transmission layer to the outer periphery of an aluminum cylinder, and are rotated by a driving force transmitted from a driving motor (not shown). The drive motor rotates the photoconductors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K in the counterclockwise direction according to the image forming operation.

  The scanner units 24Y, 24M, 24C, and 24K as exposure means irradiate the corresponding photosensitive members 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K with exposure light. Here, the scanner units 24Y, 24M, 24C, and 24K selectively expose the surfaces of the photoconductors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K, so that the electrostatic latent images are placed on the photoconductors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K. Form.

  As developing means, four developing devices 26Y, 26M, 26C, and 26K are provided. These developing units 26Y, 26M, 26C, and 26K are provided with a yellow (for each station (developing unit) in order to make the electrostatic latent images on the corresponding photoreceptors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K visible (visualized images). Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) are developed. Each developing device is provided with sleeves 26YS, 26MS, 26CS, and 26KS. Each developing device 26Y, 26M, 26C, 26K can be detached.

  Primary transfer rollers (transfer means) 27Y, 27M, 27C, and 27K are configured to transfer a single color toner image from each of the photoreceptors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K to an intermediate transfer body (image carrier) 28. Then, the intermediate transfer member 28 is rotated in the clockwise direction, and the monochromatic toner image is transferred in accordance with the rotation of the photosensitive members 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K and the primary transfer rollers 27Y, 27M, 27C, and 27K that are positioned in the opposite direction. To do. Then, by applying an appropriate bias voltage to the primary transfer roller 27 and making a difference between the rotational speeds of the photoreceptors 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K and the rotational speed of the intermediate transfer body 28, a monochromatic toner image can be efficiently formed. The image can be transferred onto the intermediate transfer body 28. This is called primary transfer.

  Further, the single color toner image is superimposed on the intermediate transfer member 28 for each station, and the superposed multicolor toner image is conveyed to the secondary transfer roller (transfer means) 29 as the intermediate transfer member 28 rotates. Further, the recording medium 11 is nipped and conveyed from the paper feed tray 21 to the secondary transfer roller 29, and the multicolor toner image on the intermediate transfer body 28 is transferred to the recording medium 11. An appropriate bias voltage is applied to the secondary transfer roller 29 to electrostatically transfer the toner image. This is called secondary transfer. The secondary transfer roller 29 contacts the recording medium 11 at a position 29a while the multicolor toner image is transferred onto the recording medium 11, and is separated to a position 29b after the printing process.

  In order to fuse and fix the multicolor toner image transferred to the recording medium 11 to the recording medium 11, a fixing roller 32 that heats the recording medium 11 and a pressure roller 33 that presses the recording medium 11 against the fixing roller 32 are provided. A fixing device (fixing means) 31 is provided. The fixing roller 32 and the pressure roller 33 in the fixing device 31 are formed in a hollow shape, and heaters 34 and 35 are incorporated therein, respectively. The fixing device 31 conveys the recording medium 11 holding the multicolor toner image by the fixing roller 32 and the pressure roller 33 and applies heat and pressure to fix the toner on the recording medium 11.

  Thereafter, the recording medium 11 after toner fixing is discharged to a discharge tray (not shown) by a discharge roller (not shown), and the image forming operation is completed.

  The cleaning unit 30 cleans the toner remaining on the intermediate transfer member 28. Here, the waste toner remaining after the four-color multicolor toner image formed on the intermediate transfer body 28 is transferred to the recording medium 11 is stored in a cleaner container (not shown) of the cleaning unit 30.

  The registration detection sensor 41 is disposed at a position facing the intermediate transfer member 28. A registration detection patch is formed on the intermediate transfer member 28, and the registration deviation amount of each color is determined from the detection timing of the patch. The registration detection sensor 41 includes, for example, three registration detection sensors 41a, 41b, and 41c in the scanning direction, and registration detection patches for C, M, Y, and K colors pass directly under each sensor.

  By detecting registration deviations at the three locations in the scanning direction, left, center, and right, it is possible to measure the magnitude of the deviation (tilt and curvature) of the scanning line of the exposure light output by each scanner unit 24. is there. There is also a color image forming apparatus provided with registration detection sensors 41 only at two positions on the left and right sides. In this case, only the magnitude of the inclination of the exposure light output from each scanner unit 24 can be measured.

Here, an example of a color image forming apparatus of a tandem system (an image processing unit including a developing device is arranged in parallel along the conveyance direction of the recording medium) is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. . For example, the present invention can also be applied to a one-drum type image forming apparatus using a developing device in which four colors of CMYK are integrated. In the case of this one-drum type image forming apparatus, at least one mask control unit is configured, and when performing the transfer process for each color, the mask process for each color is performed.
[Printer controller]
Next, a detailed configuration of the printer controller 103 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the printer controller according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The printer controller 103 has a host I / F unit 302. The host I / F unit 302 is provided with an input buffer (not shown) for inputting print data sent from the data processing unit 115 and settings for instructing the operation of the apparatus. The host I / F unit 302 is provided with an output buffer (not shown) that temporarily holds output data including signals to be sent to the data processing unit 115 and device information data. The host I / F unit 302 constitutes an input / output unit for signals and communication packets transmitted / received to / from the data processing unit 115, and controls communication with the data processing unit 115.

  The print data input via the host I / F unit 302 is given to the image data generation unit 303. Here, the input print data is composed of, for example, PDL (page description language) data. The image data generation unit 303 analyzes the print data input based on a predetermined analysis unit (for example, PDL analysis processing), generates an intermediate language from the analysis result, and further the printing unit (printer engine) 112 Generates bitmap data that can be processed.

  Specifically, the print data is analyzed, intermediate language information is created by the analysis, and rasterization processing is performed in parallel with the creation of the intermediate language information. In this rasterization process, there is conversion from the display color RGB (additive color mixture) included in the print data into YMCK (subtractive color mixture) that can be processed by the printing unit 112. In addition, there is processing such as conversion from a character code included in print data into font data such as a pre-stored bit pattern and outline font. After that, in the rasterizing process, bitmap data is created in page units or band units, pseudo gradation processing using a dither pattern is performed on the bitmap data, and bitmap data that can be printed in the printing unit 112 is generated. To do.

  The created bitmap data is stored in the image memory 305. Reading of the bitmap data stored in the image memory 305 is controlled by the DMA control unit 308, and the control of reading of the bitmap data from the image memory 305 by the DMA control unit 308 is performed based on an instruction from the CPU 309. It is.

  The bitmap data read from the image memory 305 is transferred to the printing unit 112 as a video signal via the engine I / F unit 306. The engine I / F unit 306 includes an output buffer (not shown) that temporarily holds a video signal to be transferred to the printing unit 112 and an input buffer (not shown) that temporarily holds a signal sent from the printing unit 112. ) And are provided. The engine I / F unit 306 constitutes an input / output unit for signals transmitted to and received from the printing unit 112 and controls communication with the printing unit 112.

  Various instructions such as an instruction related to mode setting issued by the operation input from the operation unit 117 are input via the operation unit I / F unit 301, and the operation unit I / F unit 301 is connected between the operation unit 117 and the CPU 309. Configure the interface. Note that instructions to the printing unit 112 for various settings such as mode settings that are output by operation input are a host I / F unit 302, a data processing unit 115, and a network that perform bidirectional communication with an externally connected device (for example, the host PC 121). Instructions can also be given via the I / F 113.

  The CPU 309 controls each block described above according to the mode instructed from the operation unit 117 or the data processing unit 115, and this control is executed based on a control program stored in the ROM 304. The control program stored in the ROM 304 includes an OS (operating system) for performing time-sharing control in units of load modules called tasks according to a system clock. The control program includes a plurality of load modules that are executed and controlled in units of functions by the OS. The control program including this load module is stored in an EEPROM (nonvolatile memory) 310 as necessary.

  A RAM 307 is used as a work area for arithmetic processing by the CPU 309. Each block including the CPU 309 is connected to the system bus 320. The system bus 320 includes an address bus and a system bus.

  Next, a processing path of input data in the printer controller 103 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the printer controller according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The print data input from the external connection device through the host I / F unit 302 is command-analyzed by the PDL analysis unit 303a. Next, an intermediate language (DisplayList) is generated in the intermediate language generation unit 303 b and temporarily stored in the work memory on the RAM 307.

  Next, the drawing memory is read from the working memory on the RAM 307 as needed, and the rasterizing process is executed by the rasterizing processing unit 303c. The image data finally recorded on the recording medium is developed into a bitmap image, stored in the image memory 305, output to the engine I / F unit 306, and recorded on the recording medium.

  In the printer control system configured as described above, the following various flowcharts are realized by programs stored in the ROM 304 of FIG.

[Embodiment 1]
Image processing executed in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing image processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 6, the intermediate language generation unit 303b executes image correction processing for each color.

  Step S1001: A misregistration correction profile set for each color for image correction is referred to. An example of the misregistration correction profile is shown in FIG. For example, the misregistration correction profile is inspected for a misregistration amount at the time of factory shipment, and is stored in the nonvolatile memory of the printing unit 112. The misregistration correction profile is acquired from the printing unit 112 when the power is turned on or during printing, and is stored in the EEPROM 310 or the RAM 307.

  Here, the format of the misregistration correction profile is, for example, an actual scanning line formed on a recording medium measured at a plurality of points for each color and an ideal scanning line in the sub-scanning direction (a direction orthogonal to the scanning direction). ). More specifically, the misregistration correction profile is correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier. In particular, in the first embodiment, the correction information includes correction information for correcting the image forming position of an image formed in each divided area that divides the recording medium into a plurality of areas.

  In the example of FIG. 7, the amount of deviation in the sub-scanning direction at a position separated by a predetermined width in the sub-scanning direction is shown with reference to the center line in the recording medium conveyance direction. In FIG. 7, the amount of deviation in the sub-scanning (height) direction at the positions of 45 mm, 75 mm, 90 mm, and 105 mm in the sub-scanning direction from the center line (0 mm) is managed for each color (KCMY) as a position deviation correction profile. ing. Also, a coefficient (dy / dx) indicating the inclination of the scanning line is managed.

  Note that the profile format is not limited to this, and any profile can be used as long as the characteristics of the inclination and curvature of the scanning line can be understood.

  Several methods are conceivable as a method of acquiring the misregistration correction profile.

  The first method is to measure and acquire the registration deviation amount in the manufacturing process of the color image forming apparatus.

  The second method uses the registration detection sensor 41 to obtain the detection result of the registration detection patch formed on the intermediate transfer body 28.

  In the third method, a registration deviation measurement chart is output by an image forming apparatus, an image is converted into electronic information by an image input apparatus such as a commercially available image scanner, and registration deviation profile information is obtained from the information. .

  Step S1002: The correction value defined in the misregistration correction profile for each color referred to in step S1001, the correction width (W), and the boundary coordinates defining the correction width are stored in the storage device. Here, the storage device is a nonvolatile storage device (EEPROM 310), a temporary storage device, or the like unless otherwise specified.

  Here, the correction width (W) is a unit for correcting the positional deviation of the image data to be printed in the correction width unit. That is, here, the image data to be processed is divided into strips in a correction width unit in the sub-scanning direction by the misregistration correction profile shown in FIG. 7, and a partial image (object) obtained by the division is divided. Misalignment correction is performed. Specifically, the correction widths are 0 mm to 45 mm, 45 mm to 75 mm, 75 mm to 90 mm, and 90 mm to 105 mm. In other words, this correction width can be said to be an object division width for dividing an image (object) to be processed by this correction width.

  Step S1003: A CTM arithmetic expression for performing coordinate conversion is generated according to the correction value of the misregistration correction profile for each color stored in step S1002.

  Step S1004: The CTM arithmetic expression generated in step S1003 is stored in the storage device.

  Here, CTM means Current Transformation Matrix: a current conversion matrix, and is a conversion function for optimally displaying the output of an application on different output devices. Specifically, user coordinates on the user space representing the document page are converted and mapped to device coordinates on the device space representing the device-specific resolution of the device used when printing or outputting the document.

  Step S1005: According to the input printing position of the image (object) to be printed, the printing direction of the page, and the correction width and boundary coordinates of the misregistration correction profile for each color stored in the storage device in Step S1002, for each color. Divide objects into

  Step S1006: The number of divided objects for each color divided in step S1005 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S1007: CTM conversion is performed on the object for each color divided in step S1005 using the CTM arithmetic expression for each color stored in the storage device in step S1004.

  Step S1008: A DL (drawing object) that is an intermediate language is generated using the object for each color that has been CTM converted in step S1007.

  Step S1009: The intermediate language generated in step S1008 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S1010: The number of object divisions for each color stored in the storage device in step S1006 is decremented. Here, the decrement value is managed on the RAM 307 in the image forming apparatus 100, for example.

  Step S1011: It is determined whether or not the number of divisions decremented in step S1010 is zero. If it is not 0 (NO in step S1011), the process returns to step S1007, and the processes in steps S1007 to S1009 are repeated. On the other hand, if it is 0 (YES in step S1011), the process proceeds to step S1012.

  Step S1012: The intermediate language after the division is rendered for each color stored in the storage device in step S1009 to generate bitmap data.

  In the first embodiment, the method for inputting the misregistration correction profile for each color has been described without limitation. For example, the misregistration correction profile is read from an externally connected device (host PC, panel, scanner, etc.). It is also possible to use a method.

  With the configuration described above, it is possible to realize object division for each color and correction of positional deviation to the object in accordance with the positional deviation correction profile for each color.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the image forming apparatus that needs to correct the printing position at an arbitrary position in the left-right direction or the horizontal direction of the surface, according to the misregistration correction profile given for each color. The print position is adjusted when the intermediate language (DL) is generated. As a result, it is possible to perform highly accurate misregistration correction without requiring the addition of dedicated software or hardware for processing the image after generating the bitmap image from the intermediate language.

[Embodiment 2]
In the first embodiment, the method of using the misregistration correction profile for each given color has been described, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this.

  In the second embodiment, a color misregistration correction profile for each color is regenerated in accordance with a threshold value input in advance or from an external device in accordance with the magnitude of the misregistration correction profile. Accordingly, a more accurate positional deviation correction process will be described.

  Hereinafter, image processing according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing image processing according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  Step S2001: Refer to the misregistration correction profile given for each color.

  Step S2002: The height (H) to be corrected is calculated from the correction value and width (W) of the misregistration correction profile referenced in step S2001. As an example of the calculation method, H = correction value × W can be calculated.

  Step S2003: Reference is made to a threshold value (N) for determining whether or not correction is necessary for the misregistration correction profile for each color. The threshold (N) is stored in advance in the ROM 203 in the image forming apparatus 100 or can be input by the user via an external connection device.

  Step S2004: It is determined whether or not the height (H) calculated in step 2002 is within the range of the threshold (N) referred to in step 2003. When it is not within the range of the threshold value (N) (NO in step 2004), the process proceeds to step S2005. On the other hand, if it is within the range of the threshold value (N) (YES in step S2004), the process ends.

  Step S2005: The case where it is not within the range of the threshold value (N) in step S2004 is a case where it is determined that the position shift correction profile needs to be regenerated in order to realize more accurate position shift correction. In this case, the width (W ′) is calculated from the width (W) and the threshold value (N) defined in the misregistration correction profile for each color referred to in step S2001.

  An example is shown in FIG. FIG. 9A shows a misregistration correction profile before regeneration (correction) stored in the ROM 203. On the other hand, FIG. 9B shows a misregistration correction profile after regeneration (correction) based on the threshold (N) with respect to the misregistration correction profile before regeneration (correction). In particular, here, the width (W ′) is corrected so that the width (W) before correction becomes narrower.

  A specific example of the processing here will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10A shows an example of the positional deviation correction process when the height (H) is within the threshold range. This is a case where the inclination (deviation (bending amount)) of the scanning line in the sub-scanning direction is relatively small. In this case, a good correction result (a correction result in which the slope of the ruled line (line) is corrected horizontally) can be obtained by performing the positional deviation correction in accordance with a pre-stored positional deviation correction profile.

  On the other hand, FIG. 10B is an example of the misalignment correction process when the height (H) is outside the threshold range. In this case, a good correction result cannot be obtained even if the misregistration correction is performed according to the misregistration correction profile stored in advance. This is due to the fact that the deviation (bending amount) in the height direction cannot be corrected with the positional deviation correction amount.

  Therefore, in such a case, as shown in FIG. 10C, the boundary position (width (W)) where the object is divided is made narrower according to the misalignment correction amount. W) is corrected to width (W ′).

  As a result, the correction unit of the object becomes finer, and the object divided by the corrected width (W ′) can be corrected by the corresponding misalignment correction amount, and a good correction result can be obtained. It becomes.

  Returning to the description of FIG.

  Step S2006: A misregistration correction profile for each color is regenerated from the width (W ′) calculated in step S2005. Then, the contents of the ROM 203 are updated with this misregistration correction profile as a new misregistration correction profile. Thus, in the subsequent misalignment correction processing, misalignment correction processing using a new misalignment correction profile is realized.

  In the second embodiment, the input of the misregistration correction profile for each color has been described without limitation. For example, a method of reading a misregistration correction profile from an external device (host PC, panel, scanner, etc.) and using it. It is also possible.

  With the above configuration, it is possible to regenerate a color misregistration correction profile for each color to realize more accurate misregistration correction. Further, the process shown in FIG. 8 is normally executed before the process shown in FIG. 6 according to the first embodiment is executed. After the process shown in FIG. 8 is executed, the process shown in FIG. 6 is executed. As a result, it is possible to realize misalignment correction processing using a more appropriate misalignment correction profile.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the correction unit for correcting the processing target image is adaptively changed according to whether or not the positional deviation amount (height) is within the threshold value. As a result, it is possible to perform more accurate displacement correction.

[Embodiment 3]
The third embodiment is intended to obtain an effect when printing an image having ruled lines or the like such as a form. In particular, a description will be given of a misregistration correction process using a misregistration correction profile for each color with respect to a straight line.

  Hereinafter, image processing according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing image processing according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In addition, about the step common to FIG. 6 of Embodiment 1, a common step number is used and the detail is abbreviate | omitted.

  Step S3005: Input for each color according to the input line data length, print position, page print direction, correction width and boundary coordinates of the color misregistration correction profile for each color stored in the storage device in step S1002 Divide line data.

  Step S3006: The number of line divisions for each color divided in step S3005 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S3007: The line data for each color divided in step S3005 is CTM converted using the CTM arithmetic expression for each color stored in the storage device in step S1004.

  Step S3008: An outline process for generating outline data by executing a line width and a modification process on the line data subjected to CTM conversion in step S3007 is executed.

  Step S3009: Using the outline data for each color generated in step S3008, the intermediate language DL (drawing object) is generated.

  Step S3010: The intermediate language generated in step S3009 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S3011: The line division number for each color stored in the storage device in step S3006 is decremented. Here, the decrement value is managed on the RAM 307 in the image forming apparatus 100, for example.

  Step S3012: It is determined whether or not the number of divisions decremented in step S3011 is zero. If it is not 0 (NO in step S3012), the process returns to step S3007, and the processes in steps S3007 to S3011 are repeated. On the other hand, if it is 0 (YES in step S3012), the process proceeds to step S3013.

  Step S3013: The intermediate language after the division is rendered for each color stored in the storage device in step S3010, and bitmap data is generated.

  In the second embodiment, the method for inputting the misregistration correction profile for each color has been described without limitation. For example, the misregistration correction profile is read from an externally connected device (host PC, panel, scanner, etc.). It is also possible to use a method.

  With the above configuration, it is possible to divide the line data according to the color misregistration correction profile for each color and to realize the misalignment correction for the divided line data.

  A specific example of the processing in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of misalignment correction processing when a line image (line) such as a ruled line exists in the image to be processed. As for the positional deviation correction in the line, the line is divided by the width unit defined by the positional deviation correction profile, and the positional deviation correction is performed on the divided line. In addition, in the case of lines, since the deviation between the divided lines is likely to appear near the boundary of the divided lines, an outline generation process is further performed on the line whose position deviation has been corrected. As a result, it is possible to obtain a satisfactory correction result for the positional deviation correction for the line.

  In FIG. 11, especially when line images such as calculations are included, the misalignment correction processing is performed uniformly, but in particular, it is parallel to the XY coordinates of the image forming area on the recording medium. A configuration in which the positional deviation correction process is executed only for the line image may be employed. This is because, in particular, a line image parallel to the XY coordinates of the image forming area on the recording medium has a higher effect of positional deviation correction than other line images.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, with respect to an image having a ruled line in which the influence of the correction result of the misalignment correction can be sensitively manifested, further post-processing ( Execute outline generation processing. Thereby, it becomes possible to print the image which has a ruled line suitably.

[Embodiment 4]
Embodiment 4 aims to obtain an effect when printing an image having a character string when expressing a sentence, and in particular, a misregistration correction profile for each color in print position adjustment processing for each character in the character string. A positional deviation correction process using the above will be described.

  Hereinafter, image processing according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing image processing according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  In addition, about the step common to FIG. 6 of Embodiment 1, a common step number is used and the detail is abbreviate | omitted.

  Step S4005: Character data included in the input character string is read from the character data storage area. The character data storage area is stored in advance in the ROM 203 in the image forming apparatus or stored in the storage device, for example.

  Step S4006: It is determined whether or not the input character string is a character string and a character string parallel to the XY coordinates of the image forming area on the recording medium. If the character string is a character string parallel to the XY coordinates of the image forming area (YES in step S4006), the process advances to step S4007. On the other hand, if the character string is not parallel to the XY coordinates of the image forming area (NO in step S4006), the process advances to step S4009.

  Note that the character string parallel to the XY coordinates of the image forming area is, for example, a character string parallel to the axis of the coordinates (device coordinates) defining the recording medium on which the image forming apparatus forms an image (the recording medium is the longitudinal direction). Character strings arranged in the horizontal direction when arranged in the direction).

  Step S4007: One character is selected from the input character string.

  Step S4008: CTM conversion is performed on the print position of the character data selected in step S4007 using the print position and the print direction of the page and the CTM arithmetic expression for each color stored in the storage device in step S1004.

  Step S4009: A DL (drawing object), which is an intermediate language, is generated from the character data for each color whose printing position has been adjusted in step S4008.

  Step S4010: The intermediate language generated in step S4009 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S4011: It is determined whether or not the character string processing has been completed. If not completed (NO in step S4011), the process returns to step S4007, and the processes in steps S4007 to S4010 are repeated. On the other hand, if the character string ends (YES in step S4011), the process proceeds to step S4012.

  Step S4012: The intermediate language after the division is rendered for each color stored in the storage device in step S4010, and bitmap data is generated.

  In the fourth embodiment, the method for inputting the misregistration correction profile for each color has been described without limitation. For example, the misregistration correction profile is read from an externally connected device (host PC, panel, scanner, etc.). It is also possible to use a method.

  With the above configuration, it is possible to realize positional deviation correction for a character string by adjusting the printing position for each character in the character string data in accordance with the positional deviation correction profile for each color.

  A specific example of the processing in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 14 shows an example of misalignment correction processing when characters are present in the processing target image. Regarding the positional deviation correction for characters, in particular, positional deviation correction is performed for each character in a character string arranged in the horizontal direction. This is because the character strings arranged in the horizontal direction are likely to show a deviation between the characters, so that the positional deviation correction is executed in units of characters. As a result, it is possible to obtain a good correction result for the positional deviation correction for the character.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, for an image having a character string arranged in a predetermined direction (for example, the horizontal direction) in which the influence of the correction result of the positional deviation correction can be sensitively manifested, in character units, Perform misalignment correction. Thereby, it is possible to suitably print an image having a character string arranged in a predetermined direction (for example, the horizontal direction).

[Embodiment 5]
The fifth embodiment is intended to obtain an effect on character drawing, and a character that requires correction processing is given in advance according to a character type and a character code, and a misregistration correction profile for each color is used only for the corresponding character. The misregistration correction process performed will be described.

  Hereinafter, image processing according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16.

  15 and 16 are flowcharts showing image processing according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  In addition, about the step common to FIG. 6 of Embodiment 1, a common step number is used and the detail is abbreviate | omitted.

  Step S5105: Check the font type / size / character code of the input character data.

  Step S5106: The input character data is read from the character data storage area based on the information confirmed in step S5105. It is assumed that the character data storage area is stored in advance in the ROM 203 in the image forming apparatus 100 or stored on the storage device, for example.

  Step S5107: Refer to the character correction DB (database). Here, in the character correction DB, character information such as font type, size, character code, etc. that need to be corrected is stored in advance. The character correction DB is stored in advance in the ROM 203 in the image forming apparatus 100 or stored in the storage device, for example. An example is shown in FIG.

  Step S5108: It is determined whether or not the character data confirmed in step S5106 is registered in the referenced character correction DB, and the necessity of correction is determined based on the determination result. If the character data is registered in the character correction DB, that is, if correction is necessary (YES in step S5108), the flow advances to step 5109. On the other hand, if the character data is not registered in the character correction DB (NO in step S5108), that is, if correction is not required (NO in step S5108), the process proceeds to step 5112.

  Step S5109: According to the input character data size, print position, page printing direction, and the correction width and boundary coordinates of the color misregistration correction profile for each color stored in the storage device in step S5102, the data is read out in step S5106. Split the character data.

  Step S5110: The number of character divisions for each color divided in step S5109 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S5111: The character data divided in step S5109 is CTM converted using the CTM arithmetic expression for each color stored in the storage device in step S1104.

  Step S5112: Using the character data for each color that has been CTM converted in step S5111, an intermediate language DL (drawing object) is generated.

  Step S5113: The intermediate language generated in step S5112 is stored in the storage device.

  Step S5114: The character data division number for each color stored in the storage device in step S5110 is decremented. Here, the decrement value is managed on the RAM 307 in the image forming apparatus 100, for example.

  Step S5115: It is determined whether or not the number of divisions decremented in step S5113 is zero. If not 0 (NO in step S5115), the process returns to step S5111, and the processes in steps S5111 to S5114 are repeated. On the other hand, if it is 0 (YES in step S5115), the process moves to step S5116.

  Step S5116: The intermediate language after the division is rendered for each color stored in the storage device in step S5114, and bitmap data is generated.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 100 can use a font cache (hereinafter abbreviated as FC) registration / readout process for the purpose of speeding up character processing.

  Here, the character data to be font-cached is bitmap data (or outline data) of character data that does not require misalignment correction among the character data read in step S5105 in FIG. That is, it is bitmap data of character data that is finally obtained in step S5116 and that does not require misalignment correction.

  In this way, by registering bitmap data of character data that does not require misalignment correction in the font cache, when processing the same character data again next time, the corresponding bitmap data in the font cache is stored. Can be used. As a result, the rendering process of step S1116 for the character data becomes unnecessary, and the processing load on the image forming apparatus 100 can be reduced.

  The relationship between the character data misregistration correction process and the FC process will be described below with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing image processing according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  Step S5201: When character data is input, it is first determined whether or not it is registered in the FC. The FC data storage area for FC uses the ROM 304 or the storage device in the image forming apparatus 100 as in the case of the character data storage area and the character correction DB.

  Step S5202: If it is determined in step S5201 that the character data input to the FC data storage area is not registered, the character data is read from the character data storage area.

  Step S5203: It is determined whether or not the character data read from the character data storage area can be registered in the FC data storage area. If the character data can be registered in the FC data area (YES in step S5203), the flow advances to step S5204. On the other hand, if the character data cannot be registered in the FC data storage area (for example, if the character size is large) (NO in step S5203), the process advances to step S5206.

  Step S5204: Character data is registered in the FC data storage area. Registered data formats here include bitmap data and outline data.

  Step S5205: Since it is determined in step S5201 that the input character data has already been registered in the FC data storage area, the character data is read from the FC data storage area.

  Step S5206: Based on the character data read in step S5202 or step S5205, intermediate language generation and bitmap data generation processing are executed according to the color misregistration correction profile shown in FIG.

  As described above, the character data processing can be performed without reducing the FC hit rate by executing the FC registration / read processing before the read character data is divided according to the positional deviation correction profile.

  In the fifth embodiment, the input of the misregistration correction profile for each color has been described without limitation. For example, a method of reading a misregistration correction profile from an external device (host PC, panel, scanner, etc.) and using it. It is also possible.

  With the above-described configuration, it is possible to realize misalignment correction for characters by dividing character data according to misalignment correction profiles for each color.

  A specific example of the processing in FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 18 shows an example of misalignment correction processing when characters are present in the processing target image. As for the positional deviation correction for characters, the character is divided in width units defined by the positional deviation correction profile, and the positional deviation correction is performed on the divided characters. Here, the misregistration correction is performed for characters that are likely to have a misalignment between the divided characters. As a result, it is possible to obtain a good correction result for the positional deviation correction for the character that is easily affected by the positional deviation correction.

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, misalignment correction is performed on an image having characters that can be sensitively influenced by the misalignment correction result. As a result, it is possible to suitably print an image having a predetermined character.

  Although the embodiment has been described in detail above, the present invention can take an embodiment as a system, apparatus, method, program, storage medium, or the like. Specifically, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.

  In the present invention, a software program (in the embodiment, a program corresponding to the flowchart shown in the drawing) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is directly or remotely supplied to a system or apparatus. In addition, this includes a case where the system or the computer of the apparatus is also achieved by reading and executing the supplied program code.

  Accordingly, since the functions of the present invention are implemented by computer, the program code installed in the computer also implements the present invention. In other words, the present invention includes a computer program itself for realizing the functional processing of the present invention.

  In that case, as long as it has the function of a program, it may be in the form of object code, a program executed by an interpreter, script data supplied to the OS, or the like.

  Examples of the recording medium for supplying the program include a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, and an optical disk. Further, as a recording medium, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD-R), etc. is there.

  As another program supply method, a browser on a client computer is used to connect to an Internet home page. Then, the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function can be downloaded from a homepage of the connection destination to a recording medium such as a hard disk. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server that allows a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer is also included in the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. Let It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  Further, the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the computer executing the read program. Further, based on the instructions of the program, an OS or the like running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments can be realized by the processing.

  Further, the program read from the recording medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Thereafter, the CPU of the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a tandem color image forming apparatus employing an intermediate transfer member as an example of an electrophotographic color image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a printer controller according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a printer controller according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the method of implement | achieving the registration shift correction | amendment per pixel by an electrical process. It is a figure explaining the method of implement | achieving the registration shift correction of less than 1 pixel by an electrical process. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the position shift correction profile of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing of Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the position shift correction profile for every color produced | generated by the image processing of Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the specific example of the image processing of Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing of Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the specific example of the image processing of Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing of Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the specific example of the image processing of Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing of Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing of Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the character registered into character correction DB of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the specific example of the image processing of Embodiment 5 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming apparatus 110 Image reading part 111 Storage part 112 Printing part 113, 114 Network I / F
115 Data processing unit 116 Display unit 117 Operation unit 118, 119 Network 120, 121 Host PC
301 Operation unit I / F unit 302 Host I / F unit 303 Image data generation unit 304 ROM
305 Image memory 306 Engine I / F unit 307 RAM
308 DMA control unit 309 CPU
310 EEPROM
311 hard disk 320 system bus

Claims (13)

An image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium An image forming apparatus for forming an image based on image data,
As correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier, the image forming position of the image formed in each divided area dividing the recording medium into a plurality of areas. Storage means for storing correction information for correction;
Dividing means for dividing the input image data in accordance with the correction information;
Conversion means for converting the image data divided by the dividing means using correction information corresponding to the divided area to which the image data belongs;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a forming unit that forms an image on the recording medium using the image data converted by the converting unit. Determining means for determining whether or not a height in a direction orthogonal to the exposure scanning direction calculated based on the correction information is within a threshold range;
Correction means for correcting the width of the divided region based on the determination result of the determination means;
Regenerating means for regenerating the correction information based on the width corrected by the correcting means;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an update unit that updates the correction information stored in the storage unit with the correction information regenerated by the regeneration unit. When line image data is included in the input image data, the image processing apparatus further includes outline processing means for executing outline processing on the line image data in the image data converted by the conversion means,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the forming unit forms an image on the recording medium using the image data generated by the outline processing unit. A determination means for determining whether or not the input image data includes character string image data parallel to XY coordinates of the image forming area on the recording medium;
When the character string image data is included as a result of the determination by the determination means, the conversion means determines the image formation position of each character image data for each character image data constituting the character string image data. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein conversion is performed using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs. Character information storage means for storing character information relating to character image data to be converted by the conversion means;
A determination means for determining whether or not the input image data includes the character image data to be converted stored in the character information storage means;
The dividing unit divides image data including the character image data according to the correction information based on a determination result of the determining unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit converts the image data divided by the dividing unit using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs. As a result of the determination by the determination means, if the input image data includes other character image data that is not the character image data to be converted stored in the character information storage means, Registration means for registering bitmap data corresponding to the character image data in the storage medium,
6. The image according to claim 5, wherein the forming unit forms an image on the recording medium using the bitmap data registered in the storage medium for the other character image data. Forming equipment. The developing unit includes a developing unit corresponding to each of a plurality of colors.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores correction information for each of the plurality of colors. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the developing units corresponding to the plurality of colors are arranged in parallel along a conveyance direction of the recording medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the developing unit includes a developing unit in which developing units corresponding to a plurality of colors are integrated. An image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium An image forming apparatus control method for forming an image based on image data,
As correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier, the image forming position of the image formed in each divided area dividing the recording medium into a plurality of areas. A storage step of storing correction information for correction in a storage medium;
A dividing step of dividing the input image data in accordance with the correction information;
A conversion step of converting the image data divided in the division step using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs;
And a forming step of forming an image on the recording medium using the image data converted in the converting step. An image carrier, an exposure unit that scans and exposes the image carrier, and a developing unit that visualizes an electrostatic latent image generated on the image carrier by exposure scanning from the exposure unit on a recording medium A program for causing a computer to execute control of an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on image data,
As correction information for correcting the shift amount of the scanning line of the exposure light with respect to the exposure scanning direction on the image carrier, the image forming position of the image formed in each divided area dividing the recording medium into a plurality of areas. A storage step of storing correction information for correction in a storage medium;
A dividing step of dividing the input image data in accordance with the correction information;
A conversion step of converting the image data divided in the division step using correction information corresponding to a divided region to which the image data belongs;
A program that causes a computer to execute a forming step of forming an image on the recording medium using the image data converted in the converting step. Intermediate data generating means for generating intermediate data based on input print data;
Storage means for storing bitmap data generated based on the intermediate data generated by the intermediate data generation means;
In an image forming apparatus having a printing unit that performs printing based on the bitmap data stored in the storage unit,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the intermediate data generation unit acquires positional deviation correction information of the printing unit and generates intermediate data based on the acquired positional deviation correction information. An intermediate data generation step for generating intermediate data based on the input print data;
A bitmap data generation step for generating bitmap data based on the intermediate data generated by the intermediate data generation step;
In a control method for an image forming apparatus, including a printing step of performing printing by a printing unit based on the bitmap data generated by the bitmap data generation step
The method of controlling an image forming apparatus, wherein the intermediate data generation step acquires positional deviation correction information of the printing unit and generates intermediate data based on the acquired positional deviation correction information.

Images