Production method and production program product of color measurement sheet, production method and production program product of printer

Abstract

The invention provides a production method and a production program product of a color measurement sheet, and a production method and a production program product of a printer. In the method for producing a colorimetric sheet, a specification of a size of a medium is received from among a plurality of sizes, and a colorimetric chart is printed on the medium of the specified size using a printer to produce the colorimetric sheet, when the size of the color measurement jig in a first direction, which is a direction in which the color measurement jig is used to move the color measurement instrument, is A, a value corresponding to the size of the color measurement instrument is B, and the size is set as a first size, a second size, A-B, and a third size in the descending order. When the size of the medium in the first direction is either the first size or the second size, the color chart in which the same number of color patches are arranged in the first direction is printed, and when the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color patches are printed. If the second size is greater than the first size, a colorimetric chart in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than if the second size is present is printed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for producing a colorimetric sheet, a production procedure for the colorimetric sheet, a method for producing a printer, and a production procedure for the printer. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a technique for printing a color chart including color patches of multiple colors by a printer. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for printing images indicating the color measurement start position and color measurement start direction of a colorimeter on a color chart for the outbound and return paths of the colorimeter.

[0003] However, in the conventional technology, the size of the color chart is a fixed size and cannot be flexibly changed.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-35239 Summary of the invention

[0005] A method for producing a colorimetric sheet for achieving the above-mentioned purpose accepts the designation of a medium size from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and uses a printer to print a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein, when the size of the colorimetric fixture in a first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimeter is moved using the colorimetric fixture, is set to A, the value corresponding to the size of the colorimeter is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are arranged in descending order as the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the colorimetric chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed, and if the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the colorimetric chart having a smaller number of color patches arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size is printed.

[0006] In addition, a method for producing a colorimetric sheet for achieving the above-mentioned purpose accepts the designation of a medium size from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and uses a printer to print a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein, when color measurement is started from one end in a first direction in which the colorimeter is moved using a colorimetric fixture and is ended at the other end, the size of the color to be measured in the first direction is set as a threshold, and when the numerical values ​​are set in descending order as the first size, the second size, the threshold, and the third size, regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the colorimetric chart having the same number of color bars arranged in the first direction is printed, and if the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the colorimetric chart having a smaller number of color bars arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size is printed.

[0007] Furthermore, a method for producing a printer for achieving the above-mentioned purpose accepts designation of a size of a medium from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, produces a colorimetric sheet by printing a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer, and allows a user to manually measure the color of the colorimetric chart of the colorimetric sheet, generates adjustment color data based on the colorimetric result, and stores the adjustment color data in the printer, wherein, when the size of the colorimetric fixture in a first direction, which is a direction in which the colorimetric instrument is moved using the colorimetric fixture, is set to A, a value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are arranged in descending order as the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the colorimetric chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed, and if the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the colorimetric chart having a smaller number of color patches arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size is printed.

[0008] Moreover, a production program product for a colorimetric sheet for achieving the above-mentioned purpose causes a computer to function in the following manner, namely, accepting a designation of a medium size from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and using a printer to print a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein the production program product for the colorimetric sheet causes a computer to function in the following manner, namely, when the size of the colorimetric fixture in a first direction, which is a direction in which the colorimetric instrument is moved using the colorimetric fixture, is set to A, a value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument is set to B, and the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size are set in descending order of numerical values, regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the colorimetric chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed, and when the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the colorimetric chart having a smaller number of color patches arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size is printed.

[0009] Moreover, a production program for a colorimetric sheet for achieving the above-mentioned purpose causes a computer to function in the following manner, namely, accepting the designation of a size of a medium from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and using a printer to print a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein the production program product of the colorimetric sheet causes a computer to function in the following manner, namely, when the size of the first direction to be measured is set as a threshold value when color measurement is started from one end in a first direction which is a direction in which the colorimeter is moved using a colorimetric fixture and is ended at the other end, and when the numerical values ​​are set in descending order as the first size, the second size, the threshold value, and the third size, the colorimetric chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, and when the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the colorimetric chart having a smaller number of color patches arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size is printed.

[0010] Furthermore, a production program product of a printer for achieving the above-mentioned purpose causes a computer to function in the following manner, namely, accepting a designation of a size of a medium from a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, and causing a user to manually measure the color of the colorimetric chart of the colorimetric sheet, and generating adjustment color data based on the colorimetric result, and causing the adjustment color data to be stored in the printer, wherein the production program product of the printer causes a computer to function in the following manner, namely, when printing a colorimetric jig used as a colorimetric jig When the size of the colorimetric fixture in the first direction in which the colorimeter moves is set to A, the value corresponding to the size of the colorimeter is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are arranged in descending order as the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart with the same number of color marks arranged in the first direction is printed; if the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart with a smaller number of color marks arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size is printed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a system for producing colorimetric sheets.

[0012] Figure 2 A diagram showing the structure of a computer.

[0013] Figure 3 A diagram showing the structure of a printer.

[0014] Figure 4 A diagram showing the structure of a colorimeter.

[0015] Figure 5 This diagram shows the situation of manual color measurement using a colorimetric jig.

[0016] Figure 6 This diagram shows the situation of manual color measurement using a colorimetric jig.

[0017] Figure 7 A diagram showing an example of a colorimetric sheet.

[0018] Figure 8 Flowchart for the colorimetric chips production process.

[0019] Fig. 9 Flowchart for the colorimetric chips production process.

[0020] Fig.10A diagram showing an example of a user interface.

[0021] Fig.11 A diagram showing an example of a user interface.

[0022] Fig.12 A diagram showing an example of a user interface.

[0023] Fig.13 A diagram showing an example of a user interface.

[0024] Fig.14 A diagram for explaining a colorimetric patch that maximizes the number of color patches in the first direction.

[0025] Fig.15 This is a diagram for explaining the colorimetric sheet S that prioritizes the ease of colorimetric operation.

[0026] Fig.16 This is a diagram showing an example of color measurement using a color measurement jig.

[0027] Fig.17 This is a diagram showing an example of color measurement using a color measurement jig.

[0028] Fig.18 This is a diagram showing an example of color measurement using a color measurement jig.

[0029] Fig.19 This is a diagram showing an example of color measurement using a color measurement jig.

[0030] Fig. 20 This is a diagram showing an example of color measurement using a color measurement jig.

[0031] Fig.21 Flowchart of the production process for a printer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Here, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order.

[0033] (1) System structure:

[0034] (1-1) Computer structure:

[0035] (1-2) Printer structure:

[0036] (1-3) Colorimeter structure:

[0037] (2) Production method of colorimetric sheets:

[0038] (3) Production method of printer:

[0039] (4) Other implementation methods:

[0040] (1) System structure:

[0041] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a system capable of producing colorimetric sheets and printers. The system includes a computer 10, a printer 20, and a colorimeter 30. The computer 10 generates print data of a colorimetric sheet including a color chart, and causes the printer 20 to print.

[0042] In this embodiment, the colorimetric sheet is used to generate adjustment color data. The adjustment color data is profile data for printing in the intended color in the printer 20. For example, the adjustment color data is composed of a LUT that establishes a correspondence between the color in the device-independent color space (e.g., CIELAB value) and the grayscale value of each color of the color material used by the printer 20.

[0043] The user uses the colorimeter 30 to measure the color of each color patch included in the color chart on the colorimetric sheet. The computer 10 obtains the colorimetric result obtained by the colorimeter 30, and establishes a correspondence between the grayscale value of each color of the color material used when printing each color patch and the colorimetric value such as the CIELAB value to generate adjustment color data. The system involved in this embodiment has a function of adjusting the size of the medium specified by the user for the color chart included in the colorimetric sheet to achieve efficient colorimetric and colorimetric with high operability.

[0044] (1-1) Computer structure:

[0045] Figure 2 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of the computer 10. In the present embodiment, the computer 10 includes a processor 10a, a communication unit 10b, a nonvolatile memory 10c, a display unit 10d, and an input unit 10e. The processor 10a includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. (not shown), and can execute various programs recorded in the nonvolatile memory 10c to control various parts of the computer 10, the printer 20, and the colorimeter 30.

[0046] In addition, the processor 10a may be composed of a single chip or a plurality of chips, or may be composed of a SoC together with various functional blocks. In addition, for example, an ASIC may be used instead of a CPU, or a structure in which a CPU and an ASIC work together may be used. When each device in the present embodiment has a processor, the processor may be implemented in various ways, similarly to the processor 10a.

[0047] The communication unit 10b includes a communication interface for communicating with external devices according to various communication protocols. The computer 10 can communicate with other devices (printer 20 or colorimeter 30) via the communication unit 10b. In addition, the communication unit 10b may also include an interface for communicating with various removable memories installed in the computer 10.

[0048] The display unit 10d is a display device that displays any image. The input unit 10e is a device for the user to perform input operations. The computer 10 can be implemented in various ways, and can be either a stationary computer or a mobile computer. In the former case, the display unit 10d can be composed of, for example, a display independent of the main body of the computer, and the input unit 10e can be composed of, for example, a keyboard and a mouse independent of the main body of the computer. In the latter case, the display unit 10d and the input unit 10e can be composed of, for example, a touch panel display integrated with the main body of the computer. Regardless of the method used, the user can operate the input unit 10e to input the user's intention while visually confirming the image and text displayed on the display unit 10d.

[0049] The processor 10a can execute a colorimetric patch production program and a printer production program (not shown). By executing the colorimetric patch production program, the processor 10a determines the size of the color chart according to the size of the medium specified by the user, and generates colorimetric patch data 10c1 for printing the colorimetric patch. The processor 10a sends the colorimetric patch data 10c1 to the printer 20, and causes the printer 20 to print the colorimetric patch.

[0050] When the colorimetric sheet is printed, the user uses the colorimeter 30 to measure the color of each color patch. By executing the printer production program, the processor 10a obtains colorimetric data 10c2 indicating the colorimetric results obtained by the user. Then, the processor 10a generates adjustment color data 10c3 based on the colorimetric data 10c2. The details of these processes will be described later.

[0051] (1-2) Printer structure:

[0052] Figure 3 2 is a block diagram showing the structure of the printer 20. The printer 20 includes a processor 20a, a communication unit 20b, a non-volatile memory 20c, a printing unit 20d, and a UI unit 20e. The processor 20a includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. (not shown), and can execute a control program recorded in the non-volatile memory 20c to control each part of the printer 20.

[0053] The communication unit 20b includes a communication interface for communicating with the computer 10 according to various wired or wireless communication protocols. The printer 20 can communicate with the computer 10 via the communication unit 20b. The communication unit 20b may also include an interface for communicating with various removable memories installed in the printer 20.

[0054] The printing unit 20d includes an actuator or various devices, sensors, drive circuits, mechanical parts, etc. for performing printing on a medium. The sensors include sensors for detecting various detection objects that may change in the printer 20. For example, there can be cited sensors for detecting the remaining amount of the medium and sensors for detecting the remaining amount of color materials of each color used in printing. In the present embodiment, the printing unit 20d includes a mechanism for recording color materials of predetermined colors (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, black, etc.) on the medium, and various images are printed by recording the amount of color materials indicated by the printing data on the medium.

[0055] In addition, the printing unit 20d can print on media of various sizes. In the present embodiment, although the printing unit 20d can print on at least three types of media, namely, the first size, the second size, and the third size, in the present embodiment, a method of printing on media of more sizes is envisioned. In addition, although the size of the medium can be selected as an arbitrary size, in the present embodiment, the size of the medium can be selected from a plurality of predetermined sizes (for example, A3, B5, etc.). That is, the printing unit 20d has an accumulation unit for accumulating media of various sizes, and can transport the accumulated media for printing.

[0056] The UI unit 20e is composed of an input unit such as buttons or a touch panel provided on the housing of the printer 20, and a display unit that displays various information. The user can operate the input unit to issue various instructions based on the information displayed on the display unit of the UI unit 20e.

[0057] In addition, in the present embodiment, the adjustment color data 10c3 generated by the computer 10 is transmitted to the printer 20 and stored in the non-volatile memory 20c. That is, in the present embodiment, the processor 20a refers to the adjustment color data 10c3 in the process of color conversion of the color such as RGB indicated in the print data of the print object to convert it into the amount of the color material. Of course, the color conversion referring to the adjustment color data 10c3 can also be implemented in the computer 10.

[0058] (1-3) Structure of colorimeter:

[0059] Figure 43 is a block diagram showing the structure of the colorimeter 30. The colorimeter 30 includes a processor 30a, a communication unit 30b, a nonvolatile memory 30c, a sensor 30d, and a UI unit 30e. The processor 30a includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. (not shown), and can execute a control program recorded in the nonvolatile memory 30c to control each part of the colorimeter 30.

[0060] The communication unit 30b includes a communication interface for communicating with the computer 10 according to various wired or wireless communication protocols. The colorimeter 30 can communicate with the computer 10 via the communication unit 30b. The sensor 30d is a device that irradiates light of a predetermined color temperature to the color measurement object and detects the spectral distribution of the reflected light. The processor 30a obtains a color measurement value (for example, a CIELAB value) representing the color of the color measurement object based on the result read by the sensor 30d and the color in the device-independent color space.

[0061] The identification information of the color patch and the color measurement value representing the obtained color measurement result are associated with each other and stored in the non-volatile memory 30c as color measurement data 10c2. In addition, in the present embodiment, the arrangement order of the color patches arranged in the colorimetric chart of the colorimetric sheet is a predetermined order. The order in which the color patches are measured by the colorimeter 30 is determined to be in accordance with the arrangement order, and the user performs the color measurement performed by the colorimeter 30 in accordance with the arrangement order. The processor 30a regards that the color measurement is performed in accordance with the arrangement order, and associates the identification information with the color measurement value of each color patch as the color measurement data 10c2.

[0062] The UI unit 30e is a button or the like provided on the housing of the colorimeter 30. The user can instruct to start color measurement of each color patch, etc. by operating the UI unit 30e. The processor 30a receives the user's instruction based on the output information of the UI unit 30e.

[0063] In the present embodiment, the user can select any one of the multiple models of colorimeter 30 for use. Specifically, there are automatic colorimeter models that can automatically move the colorimeter 30, and manual colorimeter models that can manually move the colorimeter 30. In addition, a colorimeter fixture that assists in the measurement performed by the manual colorimeter model can be used. That is, when the user has a colorimeter fixture that assists in the colorimeter performed by the colorimeter 30, the colorimeter fixture can be used to perform manual colorimetry.

[0064] Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 This figure shows the situation of performing manual color measurement using a color measurement jig. Figure 5The colorimetric jig 40 is shown as being observed from a direction perpendicular to a placement surface F on which the colorimetric sheet S is placed with respect to the colorimetric jig 40 . Figure 6 Shows from Figure 5 The colorimetric jig 40 is observed along a direction parallel to the mounting surface F from the lower side in FIG.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the colorimetric fixture 40 has a structure for placing the colorimetric sheet S on a rectangular mounting surface F. One of the four sides of the mounting surface is provided with a clamp 41 for pressing the colorimetric sheet S. Two sides adjacent to the side provided with the clamp 41 are provided with stoppers 42 for limiting the moving range of the colorimetric instrument 30. In the present embodiment, the stoppers 42 are rectangular members extending along the two sides of the mounting surface F, and are provided in the width direction ( Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The ends of the colorimeter 30 (in the left-right direction) are in contact with each other, thereby restricting the movement of the colorimeter 30 so that the colorimeter 30 does not protrude from the mounting surface F.

[0066] A guide portion 43 is provided between the stoppers 42. The guide portion 43 is a member extending from one stopper 42 to the other stopper 42 between the stoppers 42. A groove 43a is formed in the guide portion 43 in a direction parallel to the side of the mounting surface F on which the clamp 41 is formed. A convex portion not shown is formed on the colorimeter 30, and the colorimeter 30 can be moved in the length direction of the groove 43a in a state where the convex portion is embedded in the groove 43a. That is, when the user continuously measures the color of the color standard P arranged along the length direction of the groove 43a, the colorimeter 30 can be moved along a straight line by moving the colorimeter 30 in the length direction of the groove 43a in a state where the convex portion of the colorimeter 30 is embedded in the groove 43a. Here, the length direction of the groove 43a is referred to as the first direction. In addition, the guide portion 43 can be slid in the length direction of the stopper 42. Therefore, after the colorimeter 30 is moved in the first direction (row direction) to measure the color from one end to the other end of the color chart, the guide 43 is moved in a direction (column direction) perpendicular to the first direction. Then, the colorimeter 30 is moved in the first direction (row direction) again to measure the color from one end to the other end of the color chart.

[0067] Figure 7 The figure shows a colorimetric sheet S extracted. In the present embodiment, the colorimetric sheet S is a rectangular sheet, and a color chart CC composed of a plurality of color patches P is printed on one surface. A plurality of color patches P are arranged in a direction parallel to one side of the rectangular colorimetric sheet S, and color patches P are also arranged in a direction perpendicular to the direction. When the number of color patches P printed on one sheet does not meet a predetermined number, a plurality of colorimetric sheets S are printed.

[0068] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, the transverse direction (row direction) corresponds to the first direction. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the following situation is envisioned, that is, color measurement starts from the color mark P printed at the top of the column direction and the leftmost in the row direction, and the colorimeter 30 is moved to the right along the first direction. After the color measurement reaches the right end of the same row, the color measurement of one row is completed. When the color measurement of one row is completed, the color mark of the unmeasured row adjacent to the column direction will be measured. When the color mark of the unmeasured row is measured, the color measurement starts from the rightmost color mark printed in the row direction, and the colorimeter 30 is moved to the left along the first direction. After the color measurement reaches the left end of the same row, the color measurement of one row is completed. By repeatedly performing the above operations, the user will measure the color marks in the order of configuration. That is, the user moves the colorimeter 30 from left to right in the odd rows, and moves the colorimeter 30 from right to left in the even rows.

[0069] exist Figure 7 In the colorimetric sheet S shown, a mark for preventing the color measurement order from being mistaken is printed together with the color chart CC. Specifically, the colorimetric sheet S includes a first mark M1 and a second mark M2, wherein the first mark M1 is a mark indicating the start position of the color measurement performed by the colorimetric instrument 30 at one end in the first direction, and the second mark M2 is a mark indicating the start position of the color measurement performed by the colorimetric instrument 30 at the other end in the first direction.

[0070] The first mark M1 and the second mark M2 both include a straight line extending in the first direction, that is, the row direction, and a numerical value indicating the row number. The intersection of the straight line and the color standard becomes the starting position of the color measurement of the color standard. For example, the first mark M1 composed of the numerical value 1 and the straight line and written at the top represents the row that is first measured by the colorimeter 30. The second mark M2 composed of the numerical value 2 and the straight line and written second from the top represents the second row that is measured by the colorimeter 30. Figure 7 , an example is shown in which the first mark M1 and the second mark M2 indicating the order of the measured colors in each row exist until the fourteenth row. In addition, in this embodiment, the characters A to T as marks indicating the columns of the color patch are also shown in a manner of establishing a correspondence with each column of the color patch.

[0071] Although the number of color patches (the number of color patches in one row) existing in the first direction in the color chart CC may vary depending on the size of the medium or the designation issued by the user, the size of the color patch is the same regardless of the size of the medium or the designation issued by the user. That is, the size of the color patch is fixed to a predetermined size that is larger than the minimum size that can be color-measured by the colorimeter 30. Therefore, even if the conditions such as the size of the medium or the designation issued by the user vary, the colorimeter 30 can easily measure the color of each color patch.

[0072] (2) Production method of colorimetric sheets:

[0073] If the number of color patches in the first direction in the color chart CC is fixed, the blank space will increase in a larger medium, thereby excessively increasing the number of sheets of the medium, or requiring multiple lines of measurement, which may reduce the work efficiency. In addition, not all users necessarily use the color measurement fixture 40. When the color measurement fixture 40 is not used, users who are accustomed to color measurement performed by the colorimeter 30 tend to prioritize the work efficiency of color measurement, while users who are not accustomed to color measurement tend to prioritize the ease of work, and there may be various needs.

[0074] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the processor 10 a produces the colorimetric patch S by changing the size of the color chart CC in accordance with various needs. Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 1 is a flowchart showing the production process of the colorimetric patch. The production process of the colorimetric patch is started in response to a predetermined execution start trigger, for example, when a user operates the input unit of the computer 10 to input an execution instruction.

[0075] When the production process of the colorimetric sheet is started, the processor 10a receives the designation from the user (step S100). Specifically, the processor 10a receives the designation of the size of the medium and the model of the colorimetric instrument 30. In addition, if there is an item that needs to be designated depending on the model of the colorimetric instrument 30, the processor 10a also receives the designation of that item.

[0076] In order to accept the designation for each item, the processor 10a controls the display unit 10d to display a user interface for accepting the designation. Fig.10 2 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface. In this user interface, a selection portion B1 for the medium size and a selection portion B2 for the model of the colorimeter 30 are provided on the right side of the screen.

[0077] In the medium size selection section B1, the user can specify the size of the medium from a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size. When the user uses the input section 10e to select the selection section B1, the processor 10a controls the display section 10d to display the selectable medium size. Although the first size, the second size, and the third size can be various sizes, the order from large to small is the first size, the second size, and the third size. When the user uses the input section 10e to specify the medium, the processor 10a regards it as printing the color chart CC on the medium of the specified size to produce the colorimetric sheet S.

[0078] In the selection section B2 for the model of the colorimeter 30, the user can specify the model of the colorimeter 30. When the user selects the selection section B2 using the input section 10e, the processor 10a controls the display section 10d to display the selectable models of the colorimeter 30. The models include an automatic colorimeter model and a manual colorimeter model. When the user specifies the model of the colorimeter 30 using the input section 10e, the processor 10a regards that the colorimeter sheet S is produced using the colorimeter 30 of the specified model.

[0079] When the manual colorimetric model is specified in the selection section B2, the processor 10a further controls the display section 10d to display an interface for inputting additional items. When the automatic colorimetric model is specified in the selection section B2, the additional items are not displayed. On the other hand, the processor 10a displays an icon indicating the outline of the colorimetric sheet S on the left side of the user interface. Fig.10 In FIG. 1 , an icon Ia of the colorimetric sheet S is shown on the left side of the user interface when the number of color patches in one row is maximized. That is, Fig.10 This is a user interface displayed when an automatic colorimetric model is selected. Moreover, when an automatic colorimetric model is used, since even users who are not accustomed to colorimetric measurement can easily perform colorimetric measurement, a colorimetric sheet S with a maximized number of color patches in one row is printed as shown in icon Ia, thereby enabling efficient colorimetric measurement. The image data of the icons displayed on the left side of the user interface is pre-generated, and the processor 10a switches the icons according to the selection content in the selection sections B1 and B2. However, since the number of color patches is calculated using the processing described later, the number of color patches shown in the icon is not correct, but the user can recognize the outline of the colorimetric sheet S based on the size of the blank space shown in the icon, etc.

[0080] Figures 11 to 13 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed when a manual colorimetric model is specified in the selection section B2. Figures 11 to 13 In the user interface shown, select parts B1, B2 and Fig.10 Among the manual colorimetric models, there are a colorimetric instrument 30 that does not use the colorimetric jig 40 and a colorimetric instrument 30 that can perform colorimetric measurement using the colorimetric jig 40 .

[0081] When the model of the colorimeter 30 selected by the user in the selection section B2 is a model that does not use the colorimetric fixture 40, the processor 10a controls the display section 10d to display a radio button B4 for the user to select an item to be prioritized (see Fig.11 , Fig.12 ). Each radio button B4 is associated with a character string indicating the content indicated by each radio button B4. Fig.11 In the example shown, the user can select a desired option from options such as "giving priority to maximizing the number of color patches in one row" and "giving priority to the ease of color measurement operation in one row." In addition, the options are not limited to these, and for example, an option for specifying the size of the blank space desired by the user may be provided.

[0082] in addition, Fig.11 This figure shows a state where the user has specified the option "Give priority to maximizing the number of color patches in a row" by using the radio button B4. In this case, since the number of color patches in a row is maximized and the blank space in the row direction is minimized, the left side of the user interface displays the same information as above. Fig.10 Same icon Ia.

[0083] Fig.12 This figure shows a state where the user has specified the option "Prioritize the ease of color measurement operation for one row" by using the radio button B4. In this case, a blank space in the row direction is set so that the movement of the colorimeter 30 is not hindered by the height difference caused by the thickness of the medium of the colorimetric sheet S. Therefore, compared with the case where the number of color patches in one row is maximized, the blank space in the row direction becomes larger. The icon Ib shown on the left side of the user interface can be identified as Fig.10 , Fig.11 The icon 1a shown has a larger blank space.

[0084] When the model of the colorimeter 30 selected by the user in the selection section B2 is a model that can perform color measurement using the colorimetric fixture 40, the processor 10a controls the display section 10d to display the selection section B5 for the user to select whether to use the colorimetric fixture 40 (see Fig.13). In the selection section B5 for selecting whether to use the colorimetric fixture 40, the user can specify whether to use the colorimetric fixture 40. When the user uses the input section 10e to select the selection section B5, the processor 10a controls the display section 10d to display "yes" or "no" of the colorimetric fixture. When the user uses the input section 10e to specify "yes" of the colorimetric fixture, the processor 10a regards that the colorimetric fixture 40 is used. Fig.13 1 is the user interface for the case of "yes". Since the number of color scales in a row is not maximized in this case, the icon Ib shown on the left side of the user interface is the same as Fig.12 same icon and can be identified with Fig.10 , Fig.11 When the user uses the input unit 10e to specify "no" for the colorimetric fixture, the processor 10a regards the colorimetric fixture 40 as not being used. In this case, the processor 10a and Fig.11 , Fig.12 Similarly, the user interface is made to display options consisting of radio buttons B4.

[0085] User Use Figures 10 to 13 In addition, a print instruction button B3 is provided at the lower right of the user interface. After the user has made various designations using the user interface, if the user uses the input unit 10e to issue a print instruction using the print instruction button B3, the processor 10a performs the processing after step S105.

[0086] In step S105, the processor 10a obtains the medium size Lp, the sensor size Ls, and the colorimeter size Lc. Specifically, the processor 10a obtains the medium size Lp in the first direction that corresponds to the medium specified by the user in step S100. Furthermore, the processor 10a obtains the sensor size Ls and the colorimeter size Lc in the first direction that correspond to the model of the colorimeter specified by the user in step S100.

[0087] Next, in step S110, the processor 10a determines whether the model specified by the user is a manual colorimetric model. In step S110, if the model specified by the user is not determined to be a manual colorimetric model, that is, if the automatic colorimetric model is specified, the processor 10a generates printing data of a colorimetric sheet including a colorimetric chart that maximizes the number of color patches in the first direction (row direction) (step S115).

[0088] When an automatic colorimetric machine is used, even if the user is not used to colorimetric measurement, colorimetric measurement can be easily performed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the colorimetric sheet S is produced in a manner that promotes colorimetric measurement most efficiently. That is, the number of color patches in the row direction is maximized. Specifically, the processor 10a regards the length obtained by subtracting the minimum blank size set at both ends from the medium size Lp in the first direction as the range of the color chart CC in the first direction.

[0089] Then, the processor 10a determines the number of color patches when color patches of a predetermined size are arranged without gaps within the range, thereby maximizing the number of color patches in the row direction. Furthermore, the processor 10a arranges the color patches of the number of color patches in the row direction, arranging the color patches in the odd-numbered rows in the order of arrangement from the left, and arranging the color patches in the even-numbered rows in the order of arrangement from the right, thereby generating image data for printing. In addition, the processor 10a generates image data for printing the numerical value representing the row and the text representing the column in the blank portion, and combines the image data of the two to generate printing data.

[0090] When the printing data is generated, the processor 10a performs printing based on the printing data (step S140). That is, the processor 10a sends the printing data to the printer 20 so that the colorimetric sheet S is printed. Fig.10 As shown in the icon 1a of the user interface of the printer, a colorimetric sheet S with the number of color patches in the row direction maximized will be printed. Since the user can use this colorimetric sheet S to perform color measurement using an automatic colorimetric device, the colorimetric work can be performed with the number of color patches per row maximized, thereby efficiently performing the work.

[0091] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S110 that the model designated by the user is a manual colorimetric model, the processor 10a determines whether the use of the colorimetric fixture 40 is designated (step S120). If it is determined in step S120 that the use of the colorimetric fixture 40 is designated, the processor 10a executes Fig. 9 Processing shown. Fig. 9 The shown processing will be described later.

[0092] In step S120, if it is determined that the use of the colorimetric jig 40 is not specified, the processor 10a determines whether the user has specified to give priority to maximizing the number of color patches in one row by using the radio button B4 (step S125). In step S125, if it is determined that the user has specified to give priority to maximizing the number of color patches in one row, the processor 10a generates print data of a colorimetric sheet including a color chart that maximizes the number of color patches in the first direction (row direction) (step S130). Fig.14: is a diagram for explaining the colorimetric sheet S after maximizing the number of color patches in the first direction. Fig.14 In FIG. 1 , a colorimetric sheet S is shown on the left side of the drawing, and a state in which the colorimetric instrument 30 is arranged at the left and right colorimetric start positions in the first direction Dr is schematically shown.

[0093] The sensor 30d provided in the colorimeter 30 has a sensor size Ls in the first direction Dr, and can measure the color of a color patch having the same width as the sensor size Ls. In addition, in the present embodiment, there is no color patch at the start position of the color measurement, and the color measurement is started from the blank space of the medium (however, there may be text in the blank space). Therefore, if the color measurement is started from a state where one end of the sensor 30d is aligned with one end of the medium in the first direction Dr, and the color patch appears immediately when the colorimeter 30 is moved toward the other end, the color measurement can be effectively performed in the first direction Dr. If the same configuration is adopted at the other end, the number of color patches in the first direction Dr can be maximized.

[0094] Therefore, in this embodiment, the processor 10a obtains the chart size Lct in the first direction by subtracting the sensor size Ls×2 of the sensor 30d, which is the size of the minimum margin at both ends, from the medium size Lp in the first direction Dr. Then, the processor 10a obtains the number of color patches in the first direction by dividing the chart size Lct by the color patch size in the first direction.

[0095] exist Fig.14 , an example of the size is shown on the right. In this example, the medium size LP is 500 mm. In addition, since the sensor size Ls is 10 mm, the left margin Lml and the right margin Lmr are both 10 mm. As a result, the chart size Lct is calculated as 500-10×2, which is 480 mm. Since the sensor size Ls is 10 mm and the color patch size is 10 mm, the number of color patches is 48 (=480 / 10).

[0096] When the number of color patches in the first direction is obtained, the processor 10a generates image data for arranging the color patches in the odd-numbered rows from left to right in the arrangement order and arranging the color patches in the even-numbered rows from right to left in the arrangement order for printing. The color chart generated in the above manner is a first pattern for starting color measurement by exposing the colorimeter 30 from the medium in the first direction. The first pattern can maximize the number of color patches arranged in the first direction, so that the color measurement operation can be effectively performed.

[0097] Furthermore, the processor 10a generates printing data for the colorimetric sheet S including the colorimetric chart. Specifically, the processor 10a generates image data representing the text to be printed in the blank portion, and synthesizes it with the image data of the colorimetric chart. Then, the processor 10a generates printing data for printing the synthesized image data. When the printing data is generated, the processor 10a sends the printing data to the printer 20 so that it prints the colorimetric sheet S (step S140). As a result, Fig.11 As shown in the icon 1a of the user interface, a colorimetric sheet S with the maximum number of color patches in the row direction is printed. Since the user can use this colorimetric sheet S to measure color, the colorimetric work can be carried out in a state where the number of color patches per row is maximized, thereby effectively carrying out the work.

[0098] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S125 that the user has not designated to prioritize maximizing the number of color patches in one row, the processor 10a generates print data of a colorimetric sheet including a color chart having a number of color patches that prioritizes ease of colorimetric operation (step S135). Fig.15 This is a diagram for explaining a colorimetric sheet S that prioritizes the ease of colorimetric operation. Fig.15 In FIG. 1 , a colorimetric sheet S is shown on the left side of the drawing, and a state in which the colorimetric instrument 30 is arranged at the left and right colorimetric start positions in the first direction Dr is schematically shown.

[0099] The sensor 30d provided in the colorimeter 30 has a sensor size Ls in the first direction Dr, so that the colorimeter 30 can measure the color of a color bar having the same width as the sensor size Ls. In addition, in the present embodiment, there is no color bar at the start position of the colorimeter, and the colorimeter is measured from a blank space of the medium (however, text may be present in the blank space). At the start position of the colorimeter, if the medium is exposed from the medium in the first direction, the colorimeter 30 may be tilted due to the height difference between the surface on which the colorimeter sheet S is placed and the surface of the colorimeter sheet S, or the colorimeter 30 may be stuck at the height difference, so that the operation needs to be careful. However, if a blank space is provided in the first direction so that the colorimeter 30 is not exposed from the medium, the colorimeter 30 will not be affected by the height difference when the colorimeter 30 is placed at the start position.

[0100] Therefore, in the case of giving priority to the ease of color measurement operation, the color measurement is started from a state where one end of the colorimeter 30 is aligned with one end of the medium in the first direction Dr, and when the colorimeter 30 is moved from this position toward the other end, a color mark immediately appears. For example, at the left end in the first direction, as Fig.15As shown, the length from the left end of the colorimeter 30 to the right end of the sensor 30d is set as the left blank Lml. At the other end, the same configuration is also set, and the length from the right end of the colorimeter 30 to the left end of the sensor 30d is set as the right blank Lmr.

[0101] Therefore, the processor 10a calculates the size of the left blank Lml by the sensor size Ls in the first direction + (the size Lc of the colorimeter 30 in the first direction - the sensor size Ls in the first direction) / 2. Similarly, the processor 10a calculates the size of the right blank Lmr by the sensor size Ls in the first direction + (the size Lc of the colorimeter 30 in the first direction - the sensor size Ls in the first direction) / 2.

[0102] The processor 10a obtains the chart size Lct in the first direction by subtracting the left margin Lml and the right margin Lmr from the medium size Lp in the first direction Dr. The processor 10a then obtains the number of color patches in the first direction by dividing the chart size Lct by the color patch size in the first direction.

[0103] exist Fig.15 In the example, the size example is shown on the right. In this example, the medium size Lp is 500 mm. In addition, since the size Lc of the colorimeter 30 is 70 mm and the sensor size Ls is 10 mm, the left blank Lml and the right blank Lmr are both 40 mm (= 10 + (70-10) / 2). As a result, the chart size Lct becomes 420 mm (= 500-40 × 2). Since the sensor size Ls is 10 mm and the color patch size is 10 mm, the number of color patches becomes 42 (= 420 / 10).

[0104] When the number of color patches in the first direction is obtained, the processor 10a generates image data for arranging the color patches from left to right in the odd-numbered rows and arranging the color patches from right to left in the even-numbered rows in the arrangement order for printing. The color chart generated in the above manner is a second pattern that enables the colorimeter 30 to start color measurement in the first direction without being exposed from the medium. Through this second pattern, the user can place the colorimeter 30 at the starting position without being affected by the height difference of the medium, thereby making it easy for even users who are not used to color measurement to perform color measurement.

[0105] Furthermore, the processor 10a generates printing data for the colorimetric sheet S including the colorimetric chart. Specifically, the processor 10a generates image data representing symbols such as text printed in the blank portion, and synthesizes the image data with the image data of the colorimetric chart. Then, the processor 10a generates printing data for printing the synthesized image data. In the case where the ease of colorimetric operation is prioritized, the symbols printed in the left and right blank portions are Figure 7 The first mark and the second mark are shown.

[0106] When the printing data is generated, the processor 10a sends the printing data to the printer 20 so that the printer 20 prints the colorimetric sheet S (step S140). Fig.12 As shown in the icon 1b shown in the user interface of the printer, a colorimetric sheet S is printed that allows the colorimeter to be placed at the starting position without being affected by the height difference. Since the user can use the colorimetric sheet S to start colorimetric measurement without considering the height difference, even users who are not used to colorimetric measurement can easily perform colorimetric work.

[0107] On the other hand, when it is determined in step S120 that the use of the colorimetric jig 40 is designated, the processor 10a performs the following operation: Fig. 9 The processing shown in the figure generates a color chart using the relationship between the color measuring fixture 40 and the medium. Specifically, the processor 10a obtains the fixture size Lt (step S200). Specifically, the processor 10a obtains the fixture size Lt in the first direction that corresponds to the model of the color measuring fixture 40 specified by the user in step S100.

[0108] Next, the processor 10a determines whether the medium size is greater than or equal to AB (step S205). Here, A is the size of the colorimetric fixture 40 determined according to the model of the colorimetric fixture 40, that is, the fixture size Lt. B is a value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument 30 determined according to the model of the colorimetric instrument 30, and in this embodiment, is the size of an invalid area where color cannot be measured by using the colorimetric fixture 40. In this embodiment, the size of the invalid area is the colorimetric instrument size Lc minus the sensor size Ls.

[0109] Fig.16The diagram schematically shows a state where the colorimeter 30 is placed at the left end in the first direction by causing the colorimeter 30 to hit the stopper 42 on the left side in the first direction, and a state where the colorimeter 30 is placed at the right end in the first direction by causing the colorimeter 30 to hit the stopper 42 on the right side in the first direction when the colorimeter 30 is used. When the colorimeter 30 is used, the colorimeter 30 cannot be placed to the left of the stopper 42 on the left side, and the colorimeter 30 cannot be placed to the right of the stopper 42 on the right side. Fig.16 When color measurement is started at the position of the colorimeter 30 at one end (for example, the left end) shown and ended at the position of the colorimeter 30 at the other end (for example, the right end), the size of the measured color in the first direction is the maximum size that can be measured in the first direction.

[0110] The value B corresponding to the colorimeter 30 is a value used to determine the maximum size. That is, when the colorimeter 30 is brought into contact with the stopper 42, the distance Ld from the end where the stopper 42 and the colorimeter 30 are in contact to the end of the sensor 30d on the stopper 42 side becomes an invalid area where color measurement cannot be performed, and the invalid area where measurement cannot be performed exists at both ends in the first direction. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the distance Ld×2 between the stopper 42 and the sensor 30d when the colorimeter 30 is brought into contact with the stopper 42 becomes the value B. Therefore, the processor 10a obtains the value B by (sensor size LS+(colorimeter size Lc-sensor size Ls) / 2)×2.

[0111] When the value A and the value B are defined in the above manner, AB is consistent with the size of the color to be measured when the color measurement starts from one end of the first direction and ends at the other end. Moreover, even when the medium size Lp is larger than this size, the size that can be measured does not change because the invalid area does not change. Therefore, even if the medium size Lp is larger than AB, the size of the color chart CC in the medium will not increase, but the blank will increase. On the other hand, when the medium size Lp is less than AB, the size of the color chart CC can change according to the medium size Lp. In this way, AB can be used as a threshold.

[0112] In this embodiment, in order to branch the process using the threshold value, the processor 10a determines whether the medium size Lp is greater than AB in step S205. If it is determined in step S205 that the medium size Lp is greater than AB, the processor 10a obtains the maximum chart size and margin when the clamp is used (step S210). Specifically, Fig.16As shown in FIG. 1 , when the colorimetric jig 40 is used, when the colorimetric instrument 30 is brought into contact with the left and right stoppers 42 in the first direction and the colorimetric range in the first direction is maximized. Therefore, the processor 10a obtains the maximum chart size Lct when the jig is used by calculating the jig size Lt-the distance of the ineffective area Ld×2-the sensor size Ls×2. When the medium size Lp is greater than AB, the chart size Lct becomes a fixed value regardless of the size of the medium.

[0113] The processor 10a obtains the blank size by dividing the medium size Lp by the chart size Lct. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the medium is placed at the center of the colorimetric fixture 40 in the first direction to perform colorimetric measurement. Therefore, the processor 10a divides the blank size by 2 to obtain the left blank Lml and the right blank Lmr.

[0114] Next, the processor 10a generates printing data of the colorimetric sheet S including the color chart (step S220). Specifically, the processor 10a obtains the number of color patches in the first direction by dividing the chart size Lct by the color patch size in the first direction. When the number of color patches in the first direction is obtained, the processor 10a generates image data for arranging the color patches from left to right in the arrangement order in the odd-numbered rows and arranging the color patches from right to left in the arrangement order in the even-numbered rows for printing.

[0115] Fig.16 An example showing that the media size Lp is consistent with AB, Fig.17 , Fig.18 An example is shown in which the medium size Lp is larger than AB. Fig.17 The media size Lp shown is Fig.18 The media size Lp shown is relatively large. Fig.17 The media size Lp shown is a first size, Fig.18 The media dimension Lp shown is a second dimension.

[0116] exist Figures 16 to 18 , examples of dimensions are shown on the right. In these examples, the dimension Lc of the colorimeter 30 is 70 mm, the sensor dimension Ls is 10 mm, and the distance Ld of the invalid area is 30 mm. Since the fixture dimension Lt is 320 mm, the chart dimension Lct is 240 mm (=320-30×2-10×2).

[0117] exist Figures 16 to 18 In the example of , since the chart size Lct does not change, the medium size Lp-chart size Lct becomes the size of the blank. Since the size of the blank is equally divided on the left and right, if Fig.16For example, the blank size is 10 mm (= (260-240) / 2). Similarly, if Fig.17 For example, the blank size is 40 mm (= (320-240) / 2). Fig.18 For example, the size of the blank is 20 mm (= (280-240) / 2).

[0118] In addition, Figures 16 to 18 In the example of , since the chart size Lct does not change, the number of color patches is 24 (=240 / 10). Therefore, regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size that is larger than AB, a color chart with the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed.

[0119] When the number of color patches in the first direction is obtained, the processor 10a generates image data for arranging the color patches from left to right in the odd rows in accordance with the arrangement order, and arranging the color patches from right to left in the even rows in accordance with the arrangement order for printing. The colorimetric chart generated in the above manner is a first pattern for starting color measurement by exposing the colorimeter 30 from the medium in the first direction (except for the case where the medium size Lp = the fixture size Lt). Through this first pattern, as many color patches as possible can be arranged in the first direction. When using the colorimetric fixture 40, even users who are not accustomed to color measurement can easily implement color measurement. Therefore, when as many color patches as possible are arranged in the first direction through the first pattern, the color measurement operation can be effectively implemented.

[0120] Furthermore, the processor 10a generates printing data for the colorimetric sheet S including the colorimetric chart. Specifically, the processor 10a generates image data representing symbols such as text printed in the blank portion, and synthesizes the image data with the image data of the colorimetric chart. Then, the processor 10a generates printing data for printing the synthesized image data. When the colorimetric fixture 40 is used, the symbols printed in the left and right blank portions are Figure 7 The first mark and the second mark are shown.

[0121] However, when using the colorimetric fixture 40, since the size of the blank can be changed according to the size of the medium, the size of the first mark M1 and the second mark M2 can be changed according to the size of the medium. In contrast, the relative distances between the color chart CC, the first mark M1, and the second mark M2 are the same regardless of the first size or the second size. That is, since when the medium size Lp is greater than AB, the chart size Lct does not change even if the medium size Lp changes, and therefore the distance between the color chart CC and the first mark M1 does not change. Similarly, the distance between the color chart CC and the second mark M2 does not change. Similarly, the distance between the first mark M1 and the second mark M2 does not change. Therefore, regardless of the size of the medium, operations can be performed at the same interval.

[0122] When the print data is generated, the processor 10a sends the print data to the printer 20 to print the colorimetric sheet S (step S140). As a result, the colorimetric sheet S is printed. Since the user can perform colorimetric measurement using the colorimetric fixture 40, even a user who is not accustomed to colorimetric measurement can easily perform colorimetric work.

[0123] In addition, although in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the medium is placed at the center of the colorimetric fixture 40 in the first direction to perform colorimetric measurement, the position of the medium is not limited. For example, when the size of the medium becomes large, the colorimetric device 30 can be moved from one end of the first direction to the other end to perform colorimetric measurement even when the medium is arranged in left alignment. Fig.19 As shown in FIG. 1 , the colorimetric chart of the colorimetric sheet S may be determined so as to be arranged in left alignment.

[0124] On the other hand, in step S205, when it is not determined that the medium size Lp is greater than AB, the processor 10a generates print data of a colorimetric sheet including a colorimetric chart that maximizes the number of color patches in the first direction (row direction) (step S230). That is, when the medium size Lp is less than AB, colorimetry can be performed from one end to the other end of the medium without being restricted by the stopper 42. In addition, when the colorimetric fixture 40 is used, even a user who is not accustomed to colorimetry can perform colorimetry without being affected by the height difference of the medium.

[0125] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the medium size Lp is smaller than AB, the number of color patches in the first direction is maximized. Therefore, the process of step S230 is the same as the process of step S130 described above.

[0126] Specifically, the processor 10a obtains the chart size Lct in the first direction by subtracting the size of the smallest blank space at both ends, that is, the sensor size Ls of the sensor 30d × 2, from the medium size Lp in the first direction Dr. Then, the processor 10a obtains the number of color patches in the first direction by dividing the chart size Lct by the color patch size in the first direction.

[0127] exist Fig. 20 , an example of the size is shown on the right. In this example, the medium size Lp is 210 mm. In addition, since the sensor size Ls is 10 mm, the left margin Lml and the right margin Lmr are both 10 mm. As a result, the chart size Lct is calculated using 210-10×2 and becomes 190 mm. Since the sensor size Ls is 10 mm and the color patch size is 10 mm, the number of color patches becomes 19 (=190 / 10). In this way, if the size of the medium in the first direction is a third size that is smaller than AB, a colorimetric chart with a smaller number of color patches arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size will be printed.

[0128] When the number of color patches in the first direction is obtained, the processor 10a generates image data for arranging the color patches in the odd-numbered rows from left to right in the arrangement order and arranging the color patches in the even-numbered rows from right to left in the arrangement order for printing. The color chart generated in the above manner is a first pattern for starting color measurement by exposing the colorimeter 30 from the medium in the first direction. With this first pattern, the number of color patches arranged in the first direction can be maximized, thereby enabling efficient color measurement.

[0129] The processor 10a generates print data for the colorimetric sheet S including the color chart. Specifically, the processor 10a generates image data representing the characters to be printed in the blank portion and combines the image data with the color chart. The processor 10a then generates print data for printing the combined image data.

[0130] When the printing data is generated, the processor 10a sends the printing data to the printer 20 so that the printer 20 prints the colorimetric sheet S (step S140). Fig.11 As shown in the icon 1a of the user interface, a colorimetric sheet S with the maximum number of color patches in the row direction is printed. Since the user can use this colorimetric sheet S to measure color, the colorimetric work can be carried out in a state where the number of color patches per row is maximized, thereby effectively carrying out the work.

[0131] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the size of the color chart to be printed is changed according to the size of the medium specified by the user. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the size of the color chart is not limited to the determined size, but can be flexibly changed. In addition, the number of color patches included in the color chart can be changed in accordance with the color measurement method desired by the user. Therefore, colorimetric sheets that are adapted to various needs of users can be produced.

[0132] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when the designation of the automatic colorimetric model is accepted, a colorimetric chart maximizing the number of color patches in the first direction (row direction) is printed on the colorimetric sheet S. On the other hand, when the designation of the manual colorimetric model is accepted, a colorimetric chart maximizing the number of color patches in the first direction (row direction) or a colorimetric chart having more blanks than the colorimetric chart and not maximizing the number of color patches is printed.

[0133] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the designation of the first colorimeter of the model that performs color measurement manually is accepted, a colorimetric chart is printed in which the number of color patches arranged in the first direction is less than the number of color patches when the designation of the second colorimeter of the model that performs color measurement automatically is accepted. With this structure, a variety of colorimetric sheets corresponding to the needs of users can be produced in the manual colorimetric model.

[0134] (3) Production method of printer:

[0135] By using the colorimetric sheet S produced in the above manner, a printer can be produced. Fig.21 Flowchart of printer production processing. The user uses the colorimeter 30 to measure the color of the color patches included in the color chart CC on the colorimetric sheet S. At this time, the user measures the color of each color patch according to the predetermined arrangement order. The colorimeter 30 establishes a correspondence between the identification information of the color patch and the colorimetric result, and stores it in the non-volatile memory 30c as colorimetric data 10c2. When the colorimetric is implemented, the processor 10a obtains the colorimetric result from the colorimeter 30 (step S300). That is, the processor 10a obtains the colorimetric data 10c2 and stores it in the non-volatile memory 10c.

[0136] Next, the processor 10a generates the adjustment color data 10c3 (step S305). Specifically, when printing each color patch constituting the color chart CC, the grayscale value that specifies the amount of the color material is stored in the non-volatile memory 10c in a manner corresponding to the identification information of the color patch. Therefore, the processor 10a generates the adjustment color data 10c3 by establishing a corresponding relationship between the color measurement value of each color patch and the grayscale value indicating the amount of the color material, and stores it in the non-volatile memory 10c.

[0137] Next, the processor 10a stores the adjustment color data 10c3 in the printer 20 (step S310). That is, the processor 10a sends the adjustment color data 10c3 generated in step S305 to the printer 20 and stores it in the non-volatile memory 20c. As a result, the printer 20 can perform color conversion by referring to the adjustment color data 10c3 when printing. According to the above processing, the printer 20 that can perform printing by using the adjustment color data 10c3 for reproducing the color printed using the colorimetric sheet S can be produced.

[0138] (4) Other implementation methods:

[0139] The above embodiment is an example for implementing the present invention. In addition, various embodiments can be adopted. For example, it is also possible to measure the color from a color mark instead of a blank. In this case, for example, Fig.10 , Fig.11 As shown in the icon 1a, instead of the blank spaces formed on the left and right sides in the first direction, the color patch can be arranged at the blank positions.

[0140] In addition, it is also possible to select the colorimetric chart used for color measurement in the color measurement fixture 40. For example, although the above embodiment is as follows Fig. 20 Although the colorimetric sheet S is measured at the center of the first direction Dr as shown in the figure, the colorimetric sheet S may be placed on the colorimetric fixture 40 in a left-aligned or right-aligned manner. In this case, since the colorimetric instrument 30 needs to be abutted against one end of the stopper 42 at the left end or the right end to measure the color, an invalid area is generated, but the colorimetric instrument can be easily placed at the starting position of the color measurement.

[0141] Furthermore, the following structure may be adopted, that is, at one end in the first direction, the user can select between printing a colorimetric chart in which the color measurement is started by separating the medium from one end of the colorimetric fixture 40 and printing a colorimetric chart in which the color measurement is started by abutting the medium against one end of the colorimetric fixture 40. According to this structure, the user can select whether to print a colorimetric chart that is easier to measure color or to print a colorimetric chart with more color patches in the first direction.

[0142] The medium can be any object on which a color chart is printed, and the size and type are not limited. Although the size of the medium can specify at least a first size, a second size, and a third size, it is not limited to these sizes. For example, it can be specified from any size. The type of medium is not limited, and can be selected according to the purpose of color measurement using a color chart. For example, if color measurement is performed using a color chart in order to implement color management when printing on a white medium, the color chart will be printed on the white medium. On the other hand, if color measurement is performed using a color chart in order to implement color management when printing using a specific colored medium, the color chart will be printed on the colored medium.

[0143] The colorimetric sheet can be any medium with a color chart printed thereon, and can also be printed with other images such as the first pattern. Other images are not limited to the first pattern and the second pattern, and can be printed with, for example, a cutting line, or information indicating the model of a colorimeter or printer, identification information of a colorimetric chart, etc. The color chart is an area containing a plurality of color scales, and the color scales are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, that is, a first direction, and a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Although the size of the color scale is not limited, it can be any size as long as it can be measured by a colorimeter.

[0144] The colorimetric fixture is a tool used to assist the colorimetric work performed by the colorimetric instrument, and for example, has a mechanism for assisting in a manner that the moving direction of the colorimetric instrument becomes a fixed direction (first direction). It only needs to be configured so that the mechanism can be changed in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the colorimetric instrument to measure the color of any color standard arranged in a two-dimensional direction.

[0145] The size A of the colorimetric fixture only needs to be the maximum size of the medium that can be placed on the colorimetric fixture, and only needs to be predetermined according to the colorimetric fixture. The value B corresponding to the size of the colorimeter in the first direction is a value determined according to the size of the colorimeter, and is a value used to determine the size that can measure color in the first direction. When the colorimeter is placed on the colorimetric fixture and moved, it can move from a state where the colorimeter contacts one end in the first direction to a state where the colorimeter contacts the other end in the first direction. Therefore, the moving range at this time becomes the maximum range within which the colorimeter can move in the first direction, and the range within which color can be measured when moving within this range becomes the maximum size that can measure color in the first direction.

[0146] The value B is a value used to determine the maximum size that can measure color, and is a value corresponding to the size of the colorimeter in the first direction. That is, at both ends of the first direction, the invalid area where color cannot be measured changes according to the size of the colorimeter in the first direction. Therefore, the invalid area can be represented by the value B. The value B can be a value that gives a margin to the size of the colorimeter in the first direction, or a value calculated according to the sizes of various parts of the colorimeter in the first direction. In any case, the value B is a value corresponding to the size of the colorimeter in the first direction, and is a value determined by a common rule regardless of the model of the colorimeter. Therefore, when the size of the colorimeter changes according to the model of the colorimeter, the value B corresponding to the size of the colorimeter also changes according to the size of the colorimeter.

[0147] In a color chart, in a structure where the number of color patches arranged in the first direction is determined according to the medium, the method of determining the number of color patches changes with a certain reference as the boundary. The reference may be, for example, dimension A-dimension B. In addition, the reference may be, for example, the dimension in the first direction of the color to be measured when the colorimeter is moved in the first direction using a colorimetric fixture, and colorimetry is started from one end in the first direction and ended at the other end.

[0148] In addition, the above-mentioned system, program, and method can be implemented as a separate device or by using components possessed by multiple devices, including various methods. In addition, it can be appropriately changed by setting a part as software and a part as hardware. Moreover, the recording medium of the program for controlling the system will also make the invention established. Of course, the recording medium of the program can be a magnetic recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and any recording medium developed in the future can be considered in exactly the same way.

[0149] Explanation of symbols

[0150] 10…computer; 10a…processor; 10b…communication unit; 10c…non-volatile memory; 10c1…colorimetric sheet data; 10c2…colorimetric data; 10c3…adjustment color data; 10d…display unit; 10e…input unit; 20…printer; 20a…processor; 20b…communication unit; 20c…non-volatile memory; 20d…printing unit; 20e…UI unit; 30…colorimeter; 30a…processor; 30b…communication unit; 30c…non-volatile memory; 30d…sensor; 30e…UI unit; 40…colorimetric fixture; 41…clamp; 42…stopper; 43…guide unit; 43a…groove.

Claims

1. A method for producing a colorimetric sheet, the method comprising: receiving a designation of a size of a medium from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a color chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein: When the size of the colorimetric jig in the first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimetric instrument is moved using the colorimetric jig, is set to A, the value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are set in descending order to the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, Regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed. If the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart is printed in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size.

2. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 1, wherein: The size of the color patch is the same regardless of the size of the medium.

3. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 1, wherein: A first mark and a second mark are also printed on the medium, wherein the first mark is a mark indicating a starting position of color measurement performed by the colorimeter at one end in the first direction, and the second mark is a mark indicating a starting position of color measurement performed by the colorimeter at the other end. The relative distance between the color chart, the first mark, and the second mark is the same regardless of the first dimension or the second dimension.

4. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 1, wherein: Accept the designation of the colorimetric fixture model. A, which is the size of the colorimetric jig, is determined according to the model of the colorimetric jig.

5. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 1, wherein: Accept the designation of the colorimeter model. B is determined as a value corresponding to the size of the colorimeter according to the model of the colorimeter.

6. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 5, wherein: When designation of a first colorimeter of a model that performs color measurement manually is accepted, the color chart is printed with a number of color patches arranged in the first direction that is less than the number when designation of a second colorimeter of a model that performs color measurement automatically is accepted.

7. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 1, wherein: In the first direction, the user is allowed to select a first pattern for causing the colorimeter to be exposed from the medium and start color measurement, and a second pattern for causing the colorimeter to start color measurement without being exposed from the medium.

8. The method for producing a colorimetric sheet according to claim 1, wherein: At one end in the first direction, the user is allowed to select between printing the color chart by moving the medium away from one end of the colorimetric jig to start color measurement and printing the color chart by moving the medium against one end of the colorimetric jig to start color measurement.

9. A method for producing a colorimetric sheet, the method comprising accepting a designation of a size of a medium from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a color chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein: When the size of the color to be measured in the first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimeter is moved using the colorimetric fixture, is set as the threshold value, and the first size, the second size, the threshold value, and the third size are set in descending order of numerical values, Regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed. If the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart is printed in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size.

10. A method for producing a printer, the method comprising: receiving a designation of a size of a medium from among a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a color chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, and allowing a user to manually measure the color of the color chart of the colorimetric sheet, and generating adjustment color data based on the colorimetric result, and storing the adjustment color data in the printer, wherein: When the size of the colorimetric jig in the first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimetric instrument is moved using the colorimetric jig, is set to A, the value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are set in descending order to the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, Regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed. If the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart is printed in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size.

11. A colorimetric sheet production program product, which causes a computer to function in the following manner: accepting a designation of a medium size from a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a color chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein: The colorimetric sheet production program product enables the computer to function in the following manner, namely: When the size of the colorimetric jig in the first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimetric instrument is moved using the colorimetric jig, is set to A, the value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are set in descending order to the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, Regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed. If the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart is printed in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size.

12. A colorimetric sheet production program product, which causes a computer to function in the following manner: accepting a designation of a medium size from a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a color chart on the medium of the designated size using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, wherein: The colorimetric sheet production program product enables the computer to function in the following manner, namely: When the size of the color to be measured in the first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimeter is moved using the colorimetric fixture, is set as the threshold value, and the first size, the second size, the threshold value, and the third size are set in descending order of numerical values, Regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed. If the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart is printed in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size.

13. A printer production program product, which makes a computer function in the following manner, namely: accepting the designation of a medium size from a plurality of sizes including a first size, a second size, and a third size, and printing a colorimetric chart on the medium of the designated size by using a printer to produce a colorimetric sheet, and making a user manually measure the color of the colorimetric chart of the colorimetric sheet, and generating adjustment color data based on the colorimetric result, and causing the adjustment color data to be stored in the printer, wherein: The printer production program product enables the computer to function in the following manner, namely: When the size of the colorimetric jig in the first direction, which is the direction in which the colorimetric instrument is moved using the colorimetric jig, is set to A, the value corresponding to the size of the colorimetric instrument is set to B, and the numerical values ​​are set in descending order to the first size, the second size, AB, and the third size, Regardless of whether the size of the medium in the first direction is the first size or the second size, the color chart having the same number of color patches arranged in the first direction is printed. If the size of the medium in the first direction is the third size, the color chart is printed in which a smaller number of color patches are arranged in the first direction than in the case of the second size.

Images