Information processing apparatus, information processing method, program

Abstract

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program. There is a technical problem in which freedom in setting of printing conditions is low and convenience for a user is low. Provided are: a layer group decision section that decides, from among a plurality of printing layers of layers that are printed using a head that ejects ink, a layer group of a plurality of the layers that are printed by one scan of the head, the printing layers including the layers that are formed by specialty ink and the layers that are formed by color ink; an acceptance section that accepts input of a printing condition for each of the layer group included in the printing layers and other layers that are zero or more of the layers included in the printing layers and not included in the layer group; and a setting section that performs setting of applying a first input value of the printing condition that is input for the layer group to the layer group and applying a second input value of the printing condition that is input for the other layers to the other layers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program. Background Technology

[0002] There are printing apparatuses that print multiple layers, including layers formed by colored inks and layers formed by specialty inks, stacked together. In the following text, the case of printing multiple layers, including layers formed by colored inks and layers formed by specialty inks, stacked together, will be referred to as multilayer printing. Patent Document 1 discloses a printing apparatus that sprays multiple inks in a specified order when printing multiple layers.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-230738

[0004] Historically, the freedom to set printing conditions has been limited, and it has also been less convenient for users. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, the information processing apparatus includes: a layer group determination unit that determines, from a plurality of printed layers that are printed as layers printed by a head using an ink ejector, a layer group of layers to be printed in a single scan by the head, the printed layers including layers formed by special ink and layers formed by color ink; a receiving unit that accepts input of printing conditions for each of the layer group included in the printed layers and for each of the other layers that are zero or more layers included in the printed layers but not included in the layer group; and a setting unit that sets a first input value of the printing conditions input for the layer group to be applied to the layer group and a second input value of the printing conditions input for the other layers to be applied to the other layers. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the configuration of an information processing device, etc.

[0007] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating an example of multiple layers printed.

[0008] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the printhead.

[0009] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the printing of layers.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen.

[0013] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating an example of registration processing.

[0014] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of layer group decision processing.

[0015] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0016] 100: Information processing device; 110: Processor; 111: Setting program; 111a: Receiving unit; 111b: Layer group determination unit; 111c: Registration unit; 111d: Setting unit; 120: Communication unit; 130: Storage medium; 130a: Image data; 130b: Printing condition setting value; 140: UI unit; 200: Printing apparatus; 210: Processor; 211: Printing execution program; 211a: Printing execution unit; 220: Communication unit; 230: Storage medium; 240: Print head; 241: Ejection unit; 242: Irradiation unit; 300: Input screen; 301: Add button; 302: Delete button; 303: Register button; 304: Check box; 305: Input field; 310: Input area; 311: Input field; 312: Input field; 320: Input area; 321: Display field; 322: Input field. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order.

[0018] (1) First implementation method:

[0019] (1-1) Composition of information processing device:

[0020] (1-2) Registration Processing:

[0021] (2) Second implementation method:

[0022] (3) Third implementation method:

[0023] (4) Fourth implementation method:

[0024] (5) Other implementation methods:

[0025] (1) First implementation method:

[0026] (1-1) Composition of information processing device:

[0027] Figure 1This diagram illustrates an example of the configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 and the printing apparatus 200 according to this embodiment. The information processing apparatus 100 in this embodiment is an information processing device that controls the printing apparatus 200, such as a personal computer, tablet, or smartphone. The printing apparatus 200 is a printing apparatus that prints images on a printing medium (e.g., transparent or opaque acrylic sheet, glass plate, resin-based medium (e.g., resin-based smartphone cases), printing paper, etc.) according to instructions from the information processing apparatus 100. In this embodiment, the printing apparatus 200 uses predetermined inks to print on the printing medium. In this embodiment, the predetermined inks are colored inks (ink of various colors including cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K)) and special inks. Special inks are inks used to express colors that cannot be expressed by colored inks, to impart gloss, etc.; in this embodiment, they are white inks and varnish inks. The inks used by the printing apparatus 200 in this embodiment are inks that are cured by irradiation with ultraviolet light. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the printing apparatus 200 is assumed to be an inkjet type.

[0028] In this embodiment, the printing apparatus 200 prints multiple layers on a printing medium. Figure 2 This illustrates an example of a structure consisting of multiple layers printed on a transparent printing medium by a printing apparatus 200. Figure 2 In the example, multiple layers are stacked in the following order from bottom to top: a layer formed with colored ink (hereinafter referred to as the colored ink layer), a layer formed with white ink (hereinafter referred to as the white ink layer), a colored ink layer, and a layer formed with varnish ink (hereinafter referred to as the varnish ink layer). Here, the orientation of the printing medium as viewed from the printed layers is shown below. The topmost colored ink layer can be visually confirmed from the surface of the printing medium. Furthermore, the bottommost colored ink layer can be visually confirmed from the back of the printing medium. In the following text, layers formed with special inks such as white ink and varnish ink are referred to as special ink layers. Therefore, the white ink layer and the varnish ink layer are examples of special ink layers.

[0029] In this embodiment, the printing apparatus 200 performs printing by spraying ink onto a printing medium and irradiating the sprayed ink with ultraviolet light. The information processing device 100 and the printing apparatus 200 are connected to each other via wired or wireless means. Alternatively, the information processing device 100 and the printing apparatus 200 may be integrated into a single piece of hardware and controlled from the information processing device 100 equipped with the printing apparatus 200.

[0030] The hardware included in the information processing device 100 and the printing device 200 will be described.

[0031] The information processing device 100 includes a processor 110, a communication unit 120, a storage medium 130, and a user interface (UI) unit 140. The information processing device 100 also includes RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory), which are not shown. The processor 110 controls the information processing device 100 by executing various programs stored in the ROM, storage medium 130, etc. The processor 110 can be a single chip or multiple chips. In this embodiment, the processor 110 is assumed to be a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but it can also be an ASIC or a combination of a CPU and an ASIC. The communication unit 120 includes circuitry for communication with external devices such as the printing apparatus 200, following various wired or wireless communication protocols. The storage medium 130 stores various programs, such as a setting program 111 for controlling printing operations performed by the printing apparatus 200, image data 130a, printing condition settings 130b, etc., for executing these processes.

[0032] Image data 130a is image data of multiple layers that are intended for printing. Hereinafter, the multiple layers intended for printing will be referred to as printing layers. In this embodiment, the data of each layer included in image data 130a represents the image to be printed. The data of the color ink layers included in image data 130a represents the RGB data of each pixel in the image segmented by a predetermined number of pixels (e.g., 640×480, 1200×1600, etc.) using grayscale values ​​of the RGB3 channels. The data of the white ink layer and the varnish ink layer included in image data 130a represent the data of each pixel in the image segmented by a predetermined number of pixels using grayscale values ​​of a single channel representing density.

[0033] Printing condition setting value 130b is a preset value for printing conditions that can be uniformly set for all layers in the printing layer. This preset value is obtained by summarizing the setting values ​​of printing conditions for each layer of the printing layer. In the following text, this preset value will be referred to as the printing condition preset value. Printing conditions are conditions related to printing. In this embodiment, they are the types of inks used to form each layer and the printing quality of each layer. Here, the type of ink refers to the concept of which ink is colored ink, white ink, varnish ink, etc. Printing quality is a parameter related to the quality of the printing process, such as media profile, ink density value, resolution of the input image (resolution of the printed object within the image data), parameters related to printing speed, resolution of the output image (printed image), and control parameters of the printing apparatus 200 related to the image quality of the output image. In this embodiment, parameters related to printing speed include the number of printing cycles (printing passes). The media profile is color conversion information (e.g., a color conversion table) used to reproduce the target color by the ink used for printing, regardless of the properties of the printing medium. The ink concentration value is an index value indicating the concentration of ink printed on the printing medium. The ink concentration value is used to control the amount of ink ejected from the print head 240. In this embodiment, the storage medium 130 stores information in advance about preset values ​​for print quality that can be set for a single layer (hereinafter referred to as a single layer). Hereinafter, the preset values ​​for print quality that can be set for a single layer will be referred to as single-layer preset values.

[0034] Since the printing time increases with the quality of the printed result, the printing speed decreases. In the following text, the quality of the printed result will be referred to as the printing quality. Conversely, by reducing the printing quality, the printing time can be reduced, and the printing speed can be increased. Therefore, in this embodiment, values ​​obtained by adjusting each parameter according to the application (e.g., values ​​obtained by adjusting each parameter to prioritize printing quality over printing speed, values ​​obtained by adjusting each parameter to prioritize printing speed over printing quality, etc.) are prepared as single-layer preset values.

[0035] In this embodiment, the storage medium 130 stores preset values ​​of printing conditions applicable to multiple layers that can be printed in a single scan by the print head 240 of the printing apparatus 200 (described later). Hereinafter, the multiple layers printed in a single scan by the print head 240 are referred to as a layer group. The preset values ​​of printing conditions applicable to a layer group represent information on the inks used to form each layer in the layer group and single-layer preset values ​​applied to all layers in the layer group. Hereinafter, the preset values ​​of printing conditions applicable to a layer group are referred to as layer group preset values. It should be noted that the layer group preset values ​​can also be considered as preset values ​​of printing conditions applied to a layer group.

[0036] In this embodiment, the processor 110 receives a value specification for print quality from the user via the UI unit 140, generates a single-layer preset value based on the specified value, and registers the generated single-layer preset value in the storage medium 130. More specifically, the processor 110 receives a specification of values ​​for various parameters of print quality (media profile, ink density value, input image resolution, parameters related to printing speed, output image resolution, etc.) based on the user's operation on the UI unit 140. Then, the processor 110 summarizes the specified values ​​to generate a single-layer preset value and stores the generated single-layer preset value in the storage medium 130. Alternatively, the processor 110 may also receive a specification of values ​​for a portion of the print quality parameters. In this case, the processor 110 is configured to specify predetermined initial values ​​for the other parameters to generate a single-layer preset value and stores the generated single-layer preset value in the storage medium 130. Furthermore, the processor 110 may also receive an instruction to update the values ​​of some or all of the parameters in the already generated single-layer preset value based on the user's operation on the UI unit 140. In this case, the processor 110 updates the value of the parameter in the corresponding single-layer preset value according to the instruction. By doing so, the processor 110 is able to increase the degree of freedom in setting the print quality of a single layer.

[0037] The UI unit 140 includes an input unit such as an operation unit that accepts input from the user, including a mouse, keyboard, touchpad, and touch panel, and an output unit such as a monitor, touch panel display unit, and speaker for providing prompts to the user.

[0038] The printing apparatus 200 includes a processor 210, a communication unit 220, a storage medium 230, and a print head 240. Additionally, the printing apparatus 200 includes RAM and ROM (not shown). The processor 210 controls the printing apparatus 200 by executing various programs stored in the ROM, storage medium 230, etc. The processor 210 can be a single chip or multiple chips. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processor 210 is assumed to be a CPU, but it can be an ASIC or a combination of a CPU and an ASIC. The communication unit 220 includes circuitry for communication with external devices such as the information processing device 100, following various wired or wireless communication protocols. The storage medium 230 stores various programs, such as a printing execution program 211 for controlling printing, and various information.

[0039] The print head 240 ejects ink from the printing medium and irradiates it with ultraviolet light. The processor 210 moves the print head 240 via a drive mechanism while simultaneously ejecting ink from the printing medium and irradiating it with ultraviolet light. The processor 210 performs printing by repeatedly printing line units of the printing medium using the print head 240. Hereinafter, the direction of this line is defined as the main scanning direction. Furthermore, hereinafter, the direction perpendicular to the main scanning direction and parallel to the printing medium positioned during printing is defined as the sub-scanning direction. Furthermore, hereinafter, one printing cycle is defined as the printing of one line by the print head 240 moving along the main scanning direction from one end of the printing area to the other on the printing medium. Furthermore, the number of printing cycles required to print the same area within the printing area is defined as the printing cycle number. The print head 240 includes an ejection section 241 for ejecting various inks and an irradiation section 242 for irradiating the ink ejected through the ejection section 241 with ultraviolet light. The configuration of the print head 240 in this embodiment is described below. Figure 3 As shown in the image. Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the view of the print head 240 from a vertical direction when the surface of the printing medium in the printing apparatus 200 is parallel to the horizontal direction. Multiple nozzles are formed in the ejection section 241 for ejecting various inks, including color ink (CMYK), white ink, and varnish ink. The ejection section 241 coats each ink onto the printing medium by ejecting each ink onto the printing medium. Figure 3 As shown, in the ejection section 241, the regions for ejecting varnish ink (designated as Vr nozzles), the regions for ejecting colored ink (designated as Cl nozzles), and the regions for ejecting white ink (designated as Wh nozzles) are arranged adjacent to each other at different positions in the sub-scanning direction. In this embodiment, the width of each nozzle in the sub-scanning direction is the same. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the direction of the Wh nozzle region as observed from the Cl nozzle region in the sub-scanning direction is designated as forward, and the direction of the Vr nozzle region as observed from the Cl nozzle region in the sub-scanning direction is designated as backward. The Vr nozzle region, Cl nozzle region, and Wh nozzle region are located at different positions in the sub-scanning direction. Therefore, when the printhead 240 performs one scan in the main scanning direction, it can eject multiple inks, including varnish ink, colored ink, and white ink, into the printing medium in a manner that prevents overlap.

[0040] In this embodiment, in principle (i.e., as long as the indication of the movement direction of the print head 240 in the sub-scanning direction during printing is not changed), the processor 210 performs printing while moving the print head 240 forward. That is, the processor 210 performs printing by repeatedly moving the print head 240 forward from the rear end of the printing area of ​​the printing medium and scanning in the main scanning direction. However, in principle, it may also be configured that the processor 210 performs printing by repeatedly moving the print head 240 backward from the front end of the printing area and scanning in the main scanning direction. The irradiation unit 242 is a lamp disposed on both sides of the ejection unit 241 in the main scanning direction and irradiates ultraviolet light. When the print head 240 scans, the processor 210 irradiates the ink ejected onto the printing medium through the ejection unit 241 with ultraviolet light through the irradiation unit 242 located at the rear of the print head 240 in the scanning direction.

[0041] Here, use Figure 4 The process of printing multiple layers in a single scan using printhead 240 will be explained. Here, the case of printing a layer group of three layers—a white ink layer, a colored ink layer, and a varnish ink layer—using the same scan of printhead 240 will be described. Figure 4 In the image, the ink applied to the printing medium is shown as a rectangle. Additionally, the most recently sprayed ink is shown as a rectangle against a gray background.

[0042] First, the print head 240 ejects the bottommost layer of white ink (in the sub-scanning direction) from the end of the printing area in the printing medium. Figure 4 (Recorded as Wh ink). Then, the print head 240 moves forward a predetermined distance, and while scanning along the main scanning direction again, it sprays out the white ink that forms the bottom layer and the colored ink that forms the second layer from the bottom (in...). Figure 4 (Recorded as Cl ink). Here, the sprayed colored ink is sprayed over the white ink sprayed in the previous scan. Thus, a colored ink layer layered on top of the white ink layer is formed. Then, the print head 240 moves forward a predetermined distance and, while scanning along the main scanning direction, sprays out the white ink forming the bottom layer, the colored ink forming the second layer from the bottom, and the varnish ink forming the top layer. Here, the sprayed varnish ink is sprayed over the colored ink sprayed in the previous scan. Thus, a varnish ink layer layered on top of the colored ink layer layered on top of the white ink layer is formed. Subsequently, the print head 240 moves forward a distance equivalent to the width of the nozzle while repeating the ink spraying. In this way, three layers are formed by the same scan of the print head 240.

[0043] The arrangement order of the ink ejection nozzles in the ejection section 241 of the printhead 240 in the sub-scanning direction determines the multiple layers that the printhead 240 can form in a single scan in the main scanning direction. The nozzle areas in the ejection section 241 are arranged forward in the order of Vr nozzle area, Cl nozzle, and Wh nozzle. If the inks corresponding to each nozzle are arranged in this order, they are varnish ink, colored ink, and white ink. When the printhead 240 moves forward while printing, multiple layers can be formed in a single scan, consisting of layers formed by the inks arranged earlier in the sequence, stacked on top of layers formed by the inks arranged later in the sequence. Similarly, when the printhead 240 moves backward while printing, multiple layers can be formed in a single scan, consisting of layers formed by the inks arranged later in the sequence, stacked on top of layers formed by the inks arranged earlier in the sequence.

[0044] That is, when the print head 240 moves forward while printing, it can form three layers of white layer, color layer and varnish layer stacked in bottom order, two layers of white layer and color layer stacked in bottom order, two layers of white layer and varnish layer stacked in bottom order, and two layers of color layer and varnish layer stacked in bottom order in a single scan.

[0045] In addition, when the print head 240 moves backward while printing, it can form three layers of varnish, color, and white layer stacked from bottom to top in a single scan; two layers of color and white layer stacked from bottom to top; two layers of varnish and white layer stacked from bottom to top; and two layers of varnish and color layer stacked from bottom to top.

[0046] It should be noted that the varnish ink layer is used for the purpose of protecting the surface and achieving a glossy finish, and it is difficult to imagine it forming outside the surface. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is assumed that no other layers are stacked on top of the varnish ink layer. Furthermore, it is also inconceivable to stack a varnish ink layer on top of a white ink layer. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is assumed that no varnish ink layer is stacked on top of a white ink layer. However, it is permissible to stack other layers on top of the varnish ink layer, and it is also permissible to stack a varnish ink layer on top of a white ink layer.

[0047] In this embodiment, the multiple layers that can form a layer group are: two layers formed by stacking a colored ink layer and a white ink layer sequentially from bottom to top; two layers formed by stacking a white ink layer and a colored ink layer sequentially from bottom to top; two layers formed by stacking a colored ink layer and a varnish ink layer sequentially from bottom to top; and three layers formed by stacking a white ink layer, a colored ink layer, and a varnish ink layer sequentially from bottom to top. Hereinafter, the layer group formed by stacking a colored ink layer and a white ink layer sequentially from bottom to top is designated as a colored / white layer group. Furthermore, hereinafter, the layer group formed by stacking a white ink layer, a colored ink layer, and a varnish ink layer sequentially from bottom to top is designated as a white / colored / varnish layer group. In this embodiment, the preset values ​​of the layers that can be applied to the white / color layer group, the color / white layer group, the color / varnish layer group, and the white / color / varnish layer group are pre-stored in the storage medium 130.

[0048] In the following text, when printing is performed while the print head 240 moves forward, the layer group preset values ​​applicable to the layer groups that can be formed in one scan by the print head 240 are set as forward preset values. In this embodiment, the layer group preset values ​​applicable to the white / color layer group, the color / varnish layer group, and the white / color / varnish layer group are set as forward preset values. Furthermore, in the following text, when printing is performed while the print head 240 moves backward, the layer group preset values ​​applicable to the layer groups that can be formed in one scan by the print head 240 are set as rear preset values. In this embodiment, the layer group preset values ​​applicable to the color / white layer group are set as rear preset values.

[0049] Furthermore, image quality is not critical for the varnish ink layer. It is conceivable that a lower print quality compared to the color and white ink layers would be applied to the varnish ink layer. Therefore, in this embodiment, none of the preset values ​​for a single layer applicable to the varnish ink layer represent a print quality exceeding a predetermined level. As a result, none of the preset values ​​for a layer group including the varnish ink layer represent a print quality exceeding a predetermined level. In other words, a print quality exceeding a predetermined level cannot be applied to the other layers in the layer group including the varnish ink layer.

[0050] Next, the functions of the information processing device 100 and the printing device 200 will be explained.

[0051] The processor 110 of the information processing device 100 functions as a receiving unit 111a, a layer group determination unit 111b, a registration unit 111c, and a setting unit 111d by executing a setting program 111 stored in the storage medium 130.

[0052] The receiving unit 111a functions to receive inputs regarding printing conditions for each layer in a printed layer, including a feature ink layer and a color ink layer. In this embodiment, the receiving unit 111a functions to receive inputs regarding printing conditions for each layer in the printed layer that is determined by the layer group determination unit 111b (described later) and for each of zero or more other layers in the printed layer that are not included in a layer group. Hereinafter, other layers in the printed layer that are different from a layer group will be referred to as "other layers." Other layers are single layers in the printed layer that are not categorized into layer groups. It should be noted that when the printed layer consists of only multiple layer groups, other layers do not exist.

[0053] The processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, displays the layer configuration of multiple layers (hereinafter referred to as virtual layers) that are virtually printed layers, and a screen for inputting the printing conditions of each layer in the virtual layers on the UI unit 140. Here, layer configuration refers to the concept of which inks are used to form the layers in the stacked layers and in what order they are stacked. In this embodiment, the processor 110 will... Figure 5 The input screen 300 shown is this screen. Input screen 300 includes an add button 301 for adding layers to a virtual layer, a delete button 302 for deleting layers from a virtual layer, and a register button 303 for registering preset values ​​for printing conditions. In addition, input screen 300 includes a checkbox 304 for indicating changes to settings for high-speed printing, and an input field 305 for specifying the policy for determining layer groups for high-speed printing.

[0054] The processor 110 sets the number of layers included in the virtual layer based on the selection of the add button 301 and the delete button 302. More specifically, based on the user's operation on the UI unit 140, when the add button 301 is selected, the processor 110 sets itself to add a layer above the top layer of the virtual layer and adds the input area 310 corresponding to the added layer to the input screen 300. Here, "top" refers to the view from the printing medium side when viewing the printed layer. It should be noted that if no layer is included in the virtual layer, the processor 110 adds a layer as the bottom layer and adds the input area 310 corresponding to the added layer to the input screen 300. In addition, based on the user's operation on the UI unit 140, when the delete button 302 is selected, the processor 110 sets itself to delete the top layer included in the virtual layer and deletes the input area 310 corresponding to the deleted layer from the input screen 300.

[0055] That is, whenever the user selects the add button 301, the input area 310 for the layer added to the virtual layer increases. Conversely, whenever the user selects the delete button 302, the input area 310 for the layer deleted from the virtual layer decreases. Figure 5 The example shows the result of selecting the append button 301 six times, resulting in six input areas 310 being displayed. Figure 5 In the example, the first layer is the bottom layer, the second layer is the layer above the first layer, the third layer is the layer above the second layer, the fourth layer is the layer above the third layer, the fifth layer is the layer above the fourth layer, and the sixth layer is the top layer.

[0056] Input area 310 is used to input the printing conditions for the corresponding layer, including input fields 311 and 312. Input field 311 is used to input the type of ink used to form the corresponding layer. Input field 312 is used to input the printing quality of the corresponding layer.

[0057] In this embodiment, when input field 311 is selected, the processor 110 prompts a drop-down menu with options for inputting the type of ink used to form the corresponding layer. In this embodiment, the processor 110 prompts for colored ink, white ink, and varnish ink as options. Then, the processor 110 accepts the specification of the ink used to form the corresponding layer from the prompted options via the UI unit 140. The processor 110 accepts the specified ink as the input value for the ink used to form the corresponding layer. Figure 5 In this example, colored ink is applied to the first layer, white ink to the second layer, colored ink to the third layer, and white ink to the fourth layer. Additionally, colored ink is applied to the fifth layer, and varnish ink is applied to the sixth layer.

[0058] In this embodiment, when input field 312 is selected, the processor 110 prompts a drop-down menu with options that can be used as input for the print quality of the corresponding layer. In this embodiment, the processor 110 prompts the single-layer preset values ​​(predefined single-layer preset values ​​and single-layer preset values ​​generated by the processor 110) stored in the storage medium 130 as the option. Then, the processor 110 accepts the specified print quality for the corresponding layer from the prompted options through the UI unit 140. The processor 110 accepts the print quality of the specified option as the input value for the print quality of the corresponding layer.

[0059] Furthermore, upon detecting that input field 305 has been selected, the processor 110 prompts for options as a drop-down menu to input a policy for high-speed printing. In this embodiment, the processor 110 prompts for a policy prioritizing printing speed over print quality (speed priority) and a policy prioritizing print quality over printing speed (quality priority) as options. The processor 110 then accepts the policy specification from the prompted options via the UI unit 140. The processor 110 accepts the specified policy as a policy for high-speed printing. Figure 5In the example, speed priority is specified.

[0060] Here, the layer group determination unit 111b will be explained.

[0061] The layer group determination unit 111b is responsible for determining the layer group to be printed in one scan of the print head 240 from the printed layers.

[0062] When the UI unit 140 detects that the checkbox 304 has been selected, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, determines the layer group to be formed in a single scan of the print head 240 from the virtual layer according to the policy specified in the input field 305. In this embodiment, the processor 110 determines the portion of the virtual layer to which the layer group preset value can be applied as a layer group, and achieves high-speed printing by enabling the layer group portion to be formed in a single scan of the print head 240.

[0063] In this embodiment, when speed priority is specified in the input field 305, the processor 110 determines the layer group from the virtual layers in a mode that prioritizes printing speed (hereinafter referred to as speed priority mode). The layer group determination process in speed priority mode will be described below.

[0064] When processor 110 is in speed-priority mode, it increases printing speed by grouping as many layers as possible into layer groups. Specifically, as described below.

[0065] The processor 110 identifies layer groups that can apply pre-prepared layer group preset values ​​(stored in the storage medium 130) as candidates for the layer groups determined within the virtual layer. The processor 110 determines the priority of each candidate as described below. This priority is an index value indicating the degree to which the corresponding candidate layer group is preferentially set in the virtual layer. The more layers a candidate has, the higher its priority will be for that candidate. Since more layers are grouped into a layer group, more layers can be formed in a single scan by the print head 240, thus reducing printing time and increasing printing speed. Furthermore, for candidates with the same number of layers, the processor 110 will prioritize candidates corresponding to the preceding preset value over those corresponding to the following preset value. When the print head 240 performs printing while moving forward and printing while moving backward, the increased difficulty in aligning the print head 240 may lead to a decrease in printing accuracy. Therefore, the processor 110 can reduce the possibility of decreased printing accuracy by aligning the direction in which the print head 240 moves in the sub-scanning direction during printing as closely as possible to the forward direction, as is the case in principle. However, in principle, when the print head 240 moves backward for printing, the processor 110 can also prioritize candidates corresponding to the rear preset value over candidates corresponding to the forward preset value. Furthermore, regarding candidates corresponding to the forward preset value or candidates corresponding to the rear preset value with the same number of layers, the processor 110 prioritizes candidates that do not include the varnish ink layer over candidates that include the varnish ink layer. In this embodiment, none of the single-layer preset values ​​applicable to the varnish ink layer have a printing quality higher than the predetermined level. Therefore, it becomes impossible to set a single-layer preset value with a printing quality higher than the predetermined level for a layer group including the varnish ink layer, and it is impossible to improve the printing quality of layers in the layer group that are different from the varnish ink layer. Therefore, the processor 110 can reduce such situations by increasing the priority of candidates that do not include a varnish ink layer compared to candidates that include a varnish ink layer.

[0066] In this embodiment, the layer groups that can apply the preset values ​​of each layer group stored in the storage medium 130 are four: color / white layer group, white / color layer group, color / varnish layer group, and white / color / varnish layer group. Therefore, the processor 110 determines these four layer groups as candidates for the layer groups determined within the virtual layer. The processor 110 sets the priority of the candidate white / color / varnish layer group, which has the most layers, to the highest. The processor 110 sets the priority of the candidate white / color layer group, which corresponds to the previous preset value but does not include the varnish ink layer, to the second highest priority. The processor 110 sets the priority of the candidate color / varnish layer group, which corresponds to the previous preset value and includes the varnish ink layer, to the third highest priority. The processor 110 sets the priority of the candidate color / white layer group, which corresponds to the subsequent preset value, to the lowest priority.

[0067] While selecting candidates one by one from the identified candidates in descending order of priority, the processor 110 performs the following processing on the selected candidates. In the following text, the candidate just selected will be designated as the selected candidate.

[0068] Processor 110 determines all portions of the virtual layers that are not yet determined to be layer groups and whose layer composition is identical to the candidate selection. Then, processor 110 determines the determined portions as layer groups. In this embodiment, processor 110 first selects the white / colored / varnish layer group as a candidate selection. Figure 5 In the example, processor 110 identifies layers four through six in the virtual layer as the portion whose layer structure is identical to the candidate layer, and determines this portion as a layer group. Next, processor 110 selects the white / colored layer group as a candidate layer. Figure 5 In the example, processor 110 identifies the second and third layers in the virtual layer as the portion whose layer composition is the same as the candidate, and determines this portion as a layer group. Next, processor 110 selects the color / varnish layer group as a candidate. Figure 5 In the example, since none of the layers in the virtual layer that were not determined to be a layer group constitute the same part as the candidate layer, the processor 110 does not determine a layer group. Next, the processor 110 selects the color / white layer group as the candidate layer. Figure 5 In the example, since none of the parts of the virtual layer that were not determined to be a layer group have the same layer composition as the candidate, the processor 110 does not determine the layer group.

[0069] The processor 110 determines the layer group in the virtual layer by performing the above processing on each of the identified candidates.

[0070] The above describes the processing in speed-priority mode.

[0071] In this embodiment, when quality priority is specified in input field 305, processor 110 determines the layer group from the virtual layers in a mode that prioritizes print quality (hereinafter referred to as quality priority mode). The layer group determination process in quality priority mode will be described below.

[0072] In image quality priority mode, the processor 110 will prioritize configuring layers with higher print quality within the virtual layer. This is explained in detail below.

[0073] The processor 110 identifies layer groups that can apply the preset values ​​of each layer group stored in the storage medium 130 as candidates for layer groups determined within the virtual layer. The processor 110 determines the priority of the identified candidates in a manner described below. This priority is an index value indicating the degree to which the corresponding candidate layer group is preferentially set in the virtual layer. In this embodiment, the layer group with the most layers (a three-layer layer group) includes a varnish ink layer. Therefore, it is impossible to apply a print quality value higher than the predetermined level in this layer group. Therefore, by prioritizing candidates that are two-layer layer groups over candidates that are three-layer layer groups, the processor 110 can reduce the possibility of reduced print quality.

[0074] Furthermore, similar to the speed-priority mode, for candidates with the same number of layers, the processor 110 prioritizes candidates corresponding to the preceding preset value over candidates corresponding to the following preset value. Also similar to the speed-priority mode, for candidates with the same number of layers corresponding to the preceding preset value or candidates with the same number of layers corresponding to the following preset value, the processor 110 prioritizes candidates excluding the varnish ink layer over candidates including the varnish ink layer.

[0075] In this embodiment, the layer groups for which the preset values ​​of each layer group stored in the storage medium 130 can be applied are four: color / white layer group, white / color layer group, color / varnish layer group, and white / color / varnish layer group. Therefore, the processor 110 determines these four layer groups as candidates for the layer groups determined within the virtual layer. The processor 110 sets the highest priority to the candidate white / color layer group, which consists of two layers and corresponds to the previous preset value but does not include a varnish ink layer. Furthermore, the processor 110 sets the second highest priority to the candidate color / varnish layer group, which consists of two layers and corresponds to the previous preset value but includes a varnish ink layer. Additionally, the processor 110 sets the third highest priority to the candidate color / white layer group, which consists of two layers and corresponds to the subsequent preset value. Finally, the processor 110 sets the lowest priority to the candidate white / color / varnish layer group, which consists of three layers.

[0076] While selecting candidates from the identified candidates one by one in descending order of priority, the processor 110 performs the following processing on the selected candidates.

[0077] Processor 110 determines all layers whose structure is identical to the candidate layer from the portions of the virtual layers that have not yet been determined as layer groups. Then, processor 110 determines the determined portions as layer groups. In this embodiment, processor 110 first selects the white / colored layer group as a candidate layer. Figure 5 In the example, processor 110 identifies layers 2-3 and 4-5 in the virtual layer as having the same layer structure as the candidate, and determines this portion as a layer group. Then, processor 110 considers that the portion with the same layer structure as the other candidates does not exist in the portion of the layer group not determined as a virtual layer, and does not further determine the layer group.

[0078] The processor 110 determines the layer group in the virtual layer by performing the above processing on each of the identified candidates.

[0079] The above describes the processing in image quality priority mode. Through the above processing, the processor 110 determines the layer group within a virtual layer conceived as a printed layer.

[0080] The above is an explanation of the layer group determination section 111b.

[0081] Return to the description of receiving section 111a.

[0082] The processor 110 removes the input area 310 of the layer included in the layer group determined by the function of the layer group determination unit 111b from the input screen 300, and adds an input area for inputting the printing conditions for the determined layer group.

[0083] exist Figure 5 In the example, when determining the layer group in speed-priority mode, processor 110 removes the input regions 310 of the second to sixth layers included in the determined second to third layer group and fourth to sixth layer group. Then, as... Figure 6 As shown, the processor 110 adds the input area 320 for inputting printing conditions for the layer group of the second to third layers and the input area 320 for inputting printing conditions for the layer group of the fourth to sixth layers to the input screen 300.

[0084] Input area 320 includes a display bar 321 for determining the types of inks included in each layer of a corresponding layer group and an input bar 322 for values ​​of printing conditions applied to all layers within the corresponding layer group. The display bar 321 shows the types of inks input into input bar 311, which was deleted along with the additional input area 320. In this embodiment, when input bar 322 is detected as selected, processor 110 prompts for an option as a drop-down menu to input a value applicable to the printing conditions of the corresponding layer group. In this embodiment, processor 110 prompts for a value applicable to the corresponding layer group stored in layer group preset values ​​in storage medium 130 as this option. Then, processor 110 accepts the specified value of the printing conditions from the prompted options via UI unit 140. Processor 110 accepts the specified value as an input value for the printing conditions applied to the corresponding layer group. Figure 6 In the example, for the layer group of the second to third layers, the setting value B was entered in input field 322. Additionally, for the layer group of the fourth to sixth layers, the setting value C was entered in input field 322. The printing conditions for the layer group within the virtual layer entered via input screen 300 (the printing conditions represented by the input value entered in input field 322) are an example of the first input value. Furthermore, the printing conditions for other layers within the virtual layer entered via input screen 300 (the printing conditions represented by the input values ​​entered in input fields 311 and 312 corresponding to other layers) are an example of the second input value.

[0085] In addition, Figure 5 In the example, when the layer group is determined in the image quality priority mode, the processor 110 deletes the input regions 310 of the second to fifth layers included in the determined second to third layer group and the fourth to fifth layer group. Then, as Figure 7 As shown, the processor 110 adds the input area 320 for inputting printing conditions for the second and third layer groups and the input area 320 for inputting printing conditions for the fourth and fifth layer groups to the input screen 300. Figure 7 In the example, the setting value D was entered in the input area for the second and third layer groups. Additionally, the setting value E was entered for the fourth and fifth layer groups.

[0086] As described above, the processor 110 accepts printing conditions input for each layer in the layer group included in the virtual layer and other individual layers via the input screen 300. That is, the processor 110 accepts printing conditions input for each layer of the printing layer via the input screen 300. The processing involved in the function of the receiving unit 111a is an example of the receiving step.

[0087] The registration unit 111c is used to register the input values ​​of the printing conditions of each layer in the virtual layer, which are received by the receiving unit 111a, as preset values ​​of printing conditions that can be set for printing layers with the same structure as the virtual layer into the storage medium 130.

[0088] When the UI unit 140 detects that the registration button 303 has been selected, the processor 110 performs the following processing using the functions of the registration unit 111c. Specifically, the processor 110 determines the input values ​​of the printing conditions entered into the input fields 311 and 312 of each input area 310 in the input screen 300 as the printing conditions for the corresponding layer. Furthermore, the processor 110 determines the types of inks corresponding to each layer in the layer group and the input values ​​of the printing conditions entered in the input field 322 of each input area 320 in the input screen 300 as the values ​​of the printing conditions for the corresponding layer group. Then, the processor 110 summarizes the determined printing condition values ​​for each layer in the layer group within the virtual layer and for each of the zero or more other layers, and includes the summarized values ​​as preset printing condition values ​​applicable to printing layers with the same layer structure as the virtual layer in the printing condition setting value 130b, and registers them in the storage medium 130.

[0089] It should be noted that, alternatively, when the registration button 303 is detected to be selected, the processor 110 accepts the designation of the name of the registered printing condition preset value and registers the printing condition preset value by the accepted name.

[0090] The setting unit 111d functions to apply the input values ​​of printing conditions input to the layer group in the printing layer to that layer group, and to apply the input values ​​of printing conditions input to other layers in the printing layer to other layers.

[0091] The processor 110, through the function of the setting unit 111d, prompts the user with printing condition preset values ​​that can be set for image data 130a, which are included in the printing condition setting value 130b. In this embodiment, the processor 110 displays the printing condition preset values ​​for virtual layers whose layer structure is the same as the printing layer of image data 130a, which are included in the printing condition setting value 130b, on the UI unit 140. Then, if the processor 110 selects a printing condition preset value registered through the function of the registration unit 111c based on the user's operation on the UI unit 140, it sets the printing condition preset value to be applied to the printing layer represented by image data 130a. That is, the processor 110 determines the portion of the printing layer that is set as a layer group based on the printing condition preset value. Then, the processor 110 sets the layer group preset value represented by the printing condition preset value to be applied as the printing condition used when printing the layer group to the determined layer group portion. In addition, the processor 110 is configured to apply the printing conditions of each layer in other layers that are different from the layer group as the printing conditions used when printing the other layers.

[0092] Then, upon receiving a printing instruction for the printing layer represented by image data 130a, processor 110 instructs printing apparatus 200 to print each layer of the printing layer under the printing conditions indicated by the preset printing conditions. At this time, processor 110 instructs printing apparatus 200 to print the layer group in a single scan of print head 240 under the printing conditions (media profile, ink density, number of printing cycles, output resolution, etc.) indicated by the preset layer group values ​​set for the layer group within the printing layer. Additionally, processor 110 instructs printing apparatus 200 to print other layers under the printing conditions set for other layers within the printing layer. The processing involved in the function of setting unit 111d is an example of a setting step.

[0093] Next, the functions of the printing apparatus 200 will be explained.

[0094] The processor 210 of the printing apparatus 200 functions as a printing execution unit 211a by executing the printing execution program 211 stored in the storage medium 230.

[0095] The printing execution unit 211a functions to perform printing of printing layers on a printing medium according to printing instructions from the information processing device 100. The processor 210, through the function of the printing execution unit 211a, prints the printing layers represented by image data 130a on the printing medium under specified printing conditions according to instructions from the information processing device 100. For a layer group, the processor 210 forms it with a specified printing quality through a single scan of the print head 240. In this embodiment, the processor 210 prints each layer included in the printing layer group sequentially on the printing medium, starting from the lower layer, under specified printing conditions.

[0096] In summary, in this embodiment, the information processing device 100 determines the layer group formed by a single scan of the print head 240 from the printing layer, accepts input of printing conditions for each layer in the layer group and other layers, and sets the received input values ​​as the printing conditions for the printing layer. By determining the layer group from the printing layer, the information processing device 100 achieves high-speed printing of the printing layer, improving user convenience. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can set the user-desired printing conditions for each layer group and other layers. That is, in multi-layer printing, the information processing device 100 can set printing conditions for each layer group and other layers, increasing the freedom of setting printing conditions and improving user convenience. For example, if the user-desired value is not among the preset printing conditions that can be applied to the printing layer, the information processing device 100 can set the user-desired printing conditions by accepting individual input of printing conditions for each layer in the printing layer from the user.

[0097] The information processing device 100 can print image data 130a with registered preset values ​​via the printing device 200. The user can observe the printing result and judge whether the image quality, printing speed, color development in the printing medium, ink concentration, etc., are suitable. If the user wishes to change the printing conditions, the information processing device 100 can also accept input values ​​for the printing conditions that can be set for the printing layer via the input screen 300 and register new printing condition preset values. Thus, the information processing device 100 can prepare printing condition preset values ​​that are closer to the user's expectations.

[0098] Furthermore, if the user wishes to change the conditions related to the printing quality of each layer in the printed result (such as ink density), the information processing device 100 can also process it as follows: That is, the information processing device 100 can accept the user's desired printing quality value through the UI unit 140 and generate a new single-layer preset value. Additionally, the information processing device 100 can also accept an instruction through the UI unit 140 to update the parameters of the already generated single-layer preset value to the user's desired value. Then, when accepting input values ​​again through the input screen 300, the information processing device 100 can also prompt the user with the adjusted single-layer printing quality preset value as an option that can be entered in the input field 312. Thus, the information processing device 100 can achieve a printing quality closer to the user's expectations.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information processing device 100 determines the layer group from the virtual layer according to the policy specified in the input field 305. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can switch the policy for determining the layer group as desired, improving user convenience. When speed priority is specified in the input field 305, compared to specifying image quality priority, the information processing device 100 can determine the layer group within the virtual layer to improve printing speed. Additionally, when image quality priority is specified in the input field 305, compared to specifying speed priority, the information processing device 100 can determine the layer group within the virtual layer to suppress image quality degradation.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information processing device 100 registers the input values ​​of printing conditions entered through the input screen 300 as preset values ​​for printing conditions that can be set for printing layers with the same layer configuration as the virtual layer. Once registered, the preset values ​​for printing conditions can be applied an unlimited number of times, even for different printing layers with the same layer configuration. Therefore, after registering the preset values ​​for printing conditions, it is unnecessary to repeat the process of setting the same printing conditions, thus improving user convenience. In other words, the information processing device 100 improves user convenience.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the nozzles for ejecting various inks in the print head 240 are arranged at different positions in the sub-scanning direction. Additionally, the print head 240 can eject multiple inks in the same scan. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can form a layer group in a single scan of the print head 240, thereby increasing the printing speed.

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, print quality includes ink concentration and parameters related to printing speed. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can set the ink concentration and printing speed desired by the user for each layer in the printing layer.

[0103] (1-2) Registration Processing:

[0104] use Figure 8 , 9 The registration process performed by the information processing device 100 will be described. The processor 110 begins the registration process at a timer triggered by the UI unit 140. Figure 8 The processing.

[0105] In step S100, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, causes the UI unit 140 to display the input screen 300. After completing the processing in step S100, the processor 110 proceeds to step S105.

[0106] In step S105, the processor 110 determines, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, whether the additional button 301 of the input screen 300 has been selected. If it is determined that the additional button 301 has been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S110. If it is determined that the additional button 301 has not been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S115.

[0107] In step S110, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, is configured to add a layer above the top layer of the virtual layer, and to add the input area 310 corresponding to the added layer to the input screen 300. After completing the processing in step S110, the processor 110 causes the processing to proceed to step S115.

[0108] In step S115, the processor 110 determines, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, whether the delete button 302 of the input screen 300 has been selected. If it is determined that the delete button 302 has been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S120. If it is determined that the delete button 302 has not been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S125.

[0109] In step S120, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, sets itself to the top layer of the deleted virtual layer and removes the input area 310 corresponding to the deleted layer from the input screen 300. After completing the processing in step S120, the processor 110 proceeds to step S125.

[0110] In step S125, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, accepts the type of ink input into the input field 311 of each input area 310. After completing the processing in step S125, the processor 110 proceeds to step S130.

[0111] In step S130, the processor 110 receives the policy for determining the layer group into the input field 305 through the function of the receiving unit 111a. After completing the processing in step S130, the processor 110 proceeds to step S135.

[0112] In step S135, the processor 110 determines whether checkbox 304 has been selected using the function of the layer group determination unit 111b. If it is determined that checkbox 304 has been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S140; if it is determined that checkbox 304 has not been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S160.

[0113] In step S140, the processor 110 determines whether the checkbox 304 is selected using the function of the layer group determination unit 111b. If the processor 110 determines that the checkbox 304 is selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S145; if the processor 110 determines that the checkbox 304 is deselected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S150.

[0114] In step S145, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, determines the layer group formed by a single scan of the printhead 240 from the virtual layers in a mode corresponding to the policy entered in the input field 305. Figure 9 The flowchart below explains the details of step S145.

[0115] In step S200, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, determines the layer groups that can apply the preset values ​​of each layer group stored in the storage medium 130 as candidates for the layer groups determined within the virtual layer. In this embodiment, the processor 110 determines four layer groups: color / white layer group, white / color layer group, color / varnish layer group, and white / color / varnish layer group. After completing the processing in step S200, the processor 110 proceeds to step S205.

[0116] In step S205, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, determines the priority of each candidate determined in step S200 within the virtual layer in the following manner.

[0117] In the speed-priority mode specified in input field 305, processor 110 processes the data as follows: Specifically, for candidates with more layers, processor 110 increases their priority by a greater margin. Furthermore, for candidates with the same number of layers, processor 110 prioritizes candidates corresponding to a preceding preset value over candidates corresponding to a subsequent preset value. Additionally, for candidates with the same number of layers corresponding to a preceding preset value or candidates with the same number of layers corresponding to a subsequent preset value, processor 110 prioritizes candidates excluding the varnish ink layer over candidates including the varnish ink layer. In this embodiment, processor 110 determines the highest priority for candidates in the white / color / varnish layer group. Furthermore, processor 110 determines the second highest priority for candidates in the white / color layer group. Furthermore, processor 110 determines the third highest priority for candidates in the color / varnish layer group. Finally, processor 110 determines the lowest priority for candidates in the color / white layer group.

[0118] Furthermore, in the image quality priority mode specified in input field 305, the processor 110 processes the data as follows: The processor 110 prioritizes candidates with two layers over candidates with three layers. Additionally, for candidates with the same number of layers, the processor 110 prioritizes candidates corresponding to a previous preset value over candidates corresponding to a subsequent preset value. Furthermore, for candidates with the same number of layers corresponding to a previous preset value or candidates with the same number of layers corresponding to a subsequent preset value, the processor 110 prioritizes candidates excluding the varnish ink layer over candidates including the varnish ink layer. In this embodiment, the processor 110 determines the highest priority for candidates in the white / color layer group. The processor 110 determines the second highest priority for candidates in the color / varnish layer group. The processor 110 determines the third highest priority for candidates in the color / white layer group. Finally, the processor 110 determines the lowest priority for candidates in the white / color / varnish layer group.

[0119] After completing step S205, the processor 110 causes the process to proceed to step S210.

[0120] In step S210, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, selects the highest-priority candidate among the candidates whose priority was determined in step S205 that was not already selected as a selection candidate. After completing the processing in step S210, the processor 110 proceeds to step S215.

[0121] In step S215, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, determines all portions of the virtual layer whose layer structure is identical to the candidate selection from those portions not yet determined to be layer groups. Then, the processor 110 determines the determined portions as layer groups. If no portion of the virtual layer not yet determined to be a layer group has a layer structure identical to the candidate selection, the processor 110 does not determine a layer group. After completing step S210, the processor 110 proceeds to step S220.

[0122] In step S220, the processor 110, through the function of the layer group determination unit 111b, determines whether all the candidates determined in step S200 have been selected as selection candidates. If it is determined that all the candidates determined in step S200 have been selected as selection candidates, the processor 110 completes the process. Figure 9 The processing, and the processing enters Figure 8 Step S150. If it is determined that there is a candidate that has not been selected as a candidate among the candidates determined in step S200, the processor 110 causes the process to proceed to step S210. Figure 9 The processing is an example of the layer group decision steps.

[0123] Return to Figure 8 Explanation.

[0124] In step S150, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, deletes the input area 310 of the layer group included in the layer group determined in step S145 from the input screen 300, and adds an input area 320 for inputting printing conditions for the determined layer group. After completing the processing in step S150, the processor 110 causes the processing to proceed to step S160.

[0125] In step S155, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, deletes the input area 320 from the input screen 300 and adds input areas 310 for each layer of the layer group corresponding to the deleted input area 320. After completing the processing in step S155, the processor 110 causes the processing to proceed to step S160.

[0126] In step S160, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, accepts the print quality values ​​input into the input field 312 for each input area 310. Additionally, the processor 110, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, accepts the print quality values ​​input into the input field 322 for each input area 320. After completing step S160, the processor 110 proceeds to step S165.

[0127] In step S165, the processor 110 determines, through the function of the receiving unit 111a, whether the registration button 303 of the input screen 300 has been selected. If it is determined that the registration button 303 has been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S170. If it is determined that the registration button 303 has not been selected, the processor 110 proceeds to step S105.

[0128] In step S170, the processor 110, through the function of the registration unit 111c, includes the input values ​​of printing conditions of other layers in the virtual layers in the input fields 311 and 312 of each input area 310 of the input screen 300 and the input values ​​of printing conditions of each layer group in the input field 322 of each input area 320 as printing condition preset values ​​that can set printing layers with the same layer structure as the virtual layers in the printing condition setting value 130b and registers them in the storage medium 130.

[0129] (5) Other implementation methods:

[0130] The above-described embodiments are one example of implementing the present invention, and various other embodiments can also be adopted. For example, in the embodiments described above, the information processing device 100 and the printing device 200 are constructed from different devices, but they can also be constructed as the same device. For example, the functions of the information processing device 100 can be installed in the printing device 200. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can also be constructed from multiple devices. Figure 8 The processing order in the flowchart shown can also be different. For example, the order of processing steps S105 to S110 and processing steps S115 to S120 can be reversed.

[0131] In the above embodiments, the processor 110 accepts the input values ​​of printing conditions to the virtual layer through the input screen 300, and registers the accepted input values ​​as printing condition preset values ​​in the storage medium 130. Then, the processor 110 prompts the registered printing condition preset values ​​as values ​​that can be set for the printing conditions of the image data 130a, and sets the printing condition preset values ​​for the image data 130a when the printing condition preset values ​​are selected.

[0132] However, the processor 110 may also choose not to register the input values ​​received through the input screen 300 as preset values ​​for printing conditions. In this case, for example, the processor 110 may be configured to directly apply the input values ​​of the printing conditions received through the input screen 300 to the printing layer of the image data 130a.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the colored ink is assumed to be four colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. However, it is also possible to use three colors: cyan, magenta, and yellow.

[0134] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the featured inks are assumed to be white inks and varnish inks. However, the featured inks may also include other inks such as fluorescent inks and metallic inks.

[0135] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, processor 110 is configured to determine all layer groups that can apply pre-prepared layer group preset values ​​as candidates for layer groups determined within the virtual layer, and to determine the portion of the layer structure that is the same as the candidates determined from the virtual layer as a layer group. However, processor 110 may also determine layer groups using other methods.

[0136] For example, in image quality priority mode, processor 110 determines the layer with the highest print quality among pre-prepared layer group preset values. Then, processor 110 identifies layer groups that include color ink layers among the layer groups to which the determined layer group preset values ​​can be applied as candidates for the layer groups determined within the virtual layer. Then, processor 110 assigns a priority to the determined candidates. For example, the more layers a candidate has, the higher its priority is assigned. Alternatively, processor 110 may select candidates one by one from the candidates in descending order of priority, determine the portion of the layer structure that is the same as the selected candidate from the virtual layer, and determine the determined portion as the layer group. Alternatively, processor 110 may input the layer group preset value with the highest print quality into the input field 322 of the input area 320 corresponding to the determined layer group. Therefore, since processor 110 can apply the highest print quality to the layer group including color ink layers, the possibility of reduced print quality of the image of the color ink layers can be reduced.

[0137] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it is assumed that when the processor 110 is in image quality priority mode, it will identify layer groups that include varnish ink layers as candidates for layer groups determined within the virtual layer, even if such layer groups are included. However, it is also possible that when the processor 110 is in image quality priority mode, it will not identify layer groups that include varnish ink layers as candidates for layer groups determined within the virtual layer. Therefore, the processor 110 will not include varnish ink layers as objects included in layer groups determined within the virtual layer. As a result, the processor 110 cannot apply a predetermined level of print quality to the layer groups, thus reducing the possibility of image quality degradation in the printing results of layers other than varnish ink layers within the layer group. Alternatively, even in this case, the processor 110 can identify layer groups that include varnish ink layers as candidates for layer groups determined within the virtual layer in speed priority mode. Therefore, the processor 110 will include varnish ink layers as objects included in layer groups determined within the virtual layer. In this case, the processor 110 will determine the layer group regardless of whether the varnish ink layer is included within the virtual layer. As a result, the processor 110 is able to set more layers as layer groups, which can help to increase the speed of printing.

[0138] Alternatively, the processor 110 can be configured to not include characteristic ink layers, such as white ink layers, which are different from varnish ink layers, in the layer group determined within the virtual layer, even when in image quality priority mode. In this case, for example, the processor 110 may not determine a layer group that includes a predetermined characteristic ink layer as a candidate for the layer group determined within the virtual layer.

[0139] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the processor 110 is configured to determine the layer group from a virtual layer, conceived as a printed layer, in a mode corresponding to the policy specified in the input field 305. However, the processor 110 may also determine the layer group in a predetermined mode (e.g., speed priority mode, image quality priority mode, etc.) instead of based on the policy specified in the input field 305. In this case, the input screen 300 may also be configured not to include the input field 305.

[0140] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the processor 110 is configured to determine all portions that can be determined as layer groups from the virtual layers that are conceived as printed layers, according to the guidelines specified in the input field 305. However, it is also possible for the processor 110 to determine at least one layer group from the virtual layers that are conceived as printed layers.

[0141] Furthermore, this invention can also be applied to computer-executed programs and methods. In addition, the systems, programs, and methods described above can be implemented as a single device or using components from multiple devices, encompassing various methods. Furthermore, suitable modifications are possible, such as making some parts software and others hardware. Moreover, the invention also applies to the invention of a recording medium for a program used in a control system. Of course, the recording medium for this program can be a magnetic recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and it can be considered that this will be completely consistent even in any recording medium developed in the future.

[0142] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are not intended to limit the invention. Since the embodiments include multiple inventions that produce different effects, a technical problem or effect understood from the embodiments is not necessarily included in all the technical problems or effects of the inventions described in the embodiments.

Claims

1. An information processing device, characterized in that, have: The layer group determination unit determines, from among the multiple layers printed by the head using an ink ejector head, a layer group of multiple layers to be printed in a single scan by the head, the printed layers including the layer formed by special ink and the layer formed by color ink; The receiving unit accepts input on printing conditions for each of the layers included in the printed layer and for each of the other layers that are included in the printed layer but not included in the layer group. as well as The setting unit performs settings to apply a first input value of the printing conditions input for the layer group to the layer group and a second input value of the printing conditions input for the other layers to the other layers. When a policy for determining the layer group is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in accordance with the specified policy. The policy includes a speed-priority policy, which prioritizes printing speed over printing image quality, and an image quality-priority policy, which prioritizes printing image quality over printing speed.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The head has a color ink ejection section, a white ink ejection section including the special ink, and a varnish ink ejection section including the special ink at different positions in the sub-scanning direction, and can eject multiple of the color ink, the white ink, and the varnish ink in one scan.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the policy of prioritizing printing speed is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in a manner that prioritizes printing speed over the image quality of the printed result.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the policy of prioritizing printing speed is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in a manner that includes the layer formed by varnish ink as an object to be included in the layer group.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the policy of prioritizing the image quality of the printed result is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in a manner that prioritizes the image quality of the printed result over the printing speed.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the policy of prioritizing the image quality of the printed result is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in a manner that excludes the layer formed by varnish ink from being included in the layer group.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The information processing device further includes a registration unit, which registers the first input value and the second input value as preset values ​​for printing conditions applicable to printing objects with the same layer composition as the printing layer in a storage medium. The setting unit sets the printed layer with the selected preset value from the preset values ​​registered by the registration unit.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The printing conditions include print quality. The print quality includes a concentration value representing the ink concentration and parameters related to the printing speed.

9. An information processing method, characterized in that, The information processing method, executed by an information processing device, includes: The layer group determination step determines, from among the multiple layers printed as layers using a head that ejects ink, a layer group as the multiple layers printed in a single scan by said head, said printed layers including said layers formed by special inks and said layers formed by color inks; The receiving step involves accepting input of printing conditions for each layer in the layer group included in the printed layer and for each of the other layers that are zero or more layers included in the printed layer but not included in the layer group; and The setting steps involve applying a first input value of the printing conditions input for the layer group to the layer group and applying a second input value of the printing conditions input for the other layers to the other layers. When a policy for determining the layer group is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in accordance with the specified policy. The policy includes a speed-priority policy, which prioritizes printing speed over printing image quality, and an image quality-priority policy, which prioritizes printing image quality over printing speed.

10. A program product, characterized in that, Includes a program that causes a computer to perform the following steps: The layer group determination step determines, from among the multiple layers printed as layers using a head that ejects ink, a layer group as the multiple layers printed in a single scan by said head, said printed layers including said layers formed by special inks and said layers formed by color inks; The receiving step accepts input on printing conditions for each layer in the layer group included in the printed layer and for each of the other layers that are zero or more layers included in the printed layer but not included in the layer group. as well as The setting steps involve applying a first input value of the printing conditions input for the layer group to the layer group and applying a second input value of the printing conditions input for the other layers to the other layers. When a policy for determining the layer group is specified, the layer group determination unit determines the layer group in accordance with the specified policy. The policy includes a speed-priority policy, which prioritizes printing speed over printing image quality, and an image quality-priority policy, which prioritizes printing image quality over printing speed.

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