Print data generation device, print data generation method, and print data generation program

Abstract

To provide a print data generation device that enables page allocation editing work including accessory design work to be properly and quickly performed regardless of a skill level of the work.SOLUTION: In a print data generation device, accessory preset data which includes accessory configuration information required for printing of accessory images is held in advance in an accessory preset data holding unit 10. A list of preset names identifying the accessory configuration information associated with a processing type selected by a worker is presented. An accessory preset selection unit 13 accepts selection of the preset name. An accessory-added imposition data generation unit 14 generates accessory-added imposition data 31 by adding the accessory image corresponding to the selected preset name to imposition data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a print data generating device, a print data generating method, and a print data generating program that generate print data for a printing device to print on printing paper, and more specifically, to a technology for generating print data including data for an accessory image that should be placed outside the printing area of ​​the actual image for post-processing performed after printing. [Background technology]

[0002] In a printing system for bookbinding, before printing is performed on a printing device, work is done to design imposition and imposition (hereinafter referred to as "imposition editing work"), and after printing is performed on the printing device, a process called "post-processing" is performed to create a final product such as a book from the printed printed paper. Known post-processing machines that perform post-processing include a sheet cutter that cuts the printed printed paper, which is a continuous sheet, to a specified size, a folding machine that creates quires from the printed printed paper cut to a specified size, a collating machine that groups multiple quires together, a stitching machine that binds the collated quires, and a three-edge trimmer that performs finishing trimming on three sides of a book (top, bottom, and fore-edge).

[0003] In the printing system for bookbinding described above, when printing is performed by the printing device, additional images called accessories (hereinafter referred to as "accessory images") such as alignment marks and barcodes for conveying processing information (for example, the thickness of the printing paper, the distinction between the cover and the body) to the post-processing machine are printed outside the printing area of ​​the actual image (the image based on the input data) so that the printed printing paper can be appropriately post-processed by the post-processing machine. To achieve this, during the layout editing work, the worker performs accessory design work, including deciding the accessory images to be printed on the printing paper and setting the positions of the accessory images.

[0004] In addition, in relation to the present invention, JP 2021-157383 A discloses an invention of an imposition device that inspects whether processing data conforms to the specifications of a post-processing machine based on printing conditions and imposition information created by an operator. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2021-157383 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, there are various styles of bookbinding, and the contents of post-processing to be performed on the printed paper differ for each style. That is, there are various types of post-processing (processing types: bookbinding processing types). In addition, various post-processing machines are provided by many manufacturers, and the specifications differ for each post-processing machine. The accessory design work must be performed taking into consideration the processing type and the specifications of the post-processing machine, but since there are various processing types and various post-processing machines as described above, with the software for the imprinting work that has been provided so far, the worker needs to determine the accessory images and set the positions of the accessory images one by one while referring to the manual with a huge number of pages. Therefore, the operation is extremely complicated, and it requires a lot of effort for the worker. In addition, it is necessary to repeat the imprinting work and the trial processing by the post-processing machine until the accessory image is determined and the position of the accessory image is set correctly. For the above reasons, a wealth of experience is required to perform the imprinting work including the accessory design work appropriately and quickly.

[0007] In addition, in the layout editing work, the accessory image to be added to the printing paper and the position of the accessory image need to be set according to the type of processing (type of bookbinding processing), but there is no mention of this in JP 2021-157383 A.

[0008] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a print data generation device that enables layout editing work, including accessory design work, to be performed appropriately and quickly, regardless of the worker's level of expertise. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A first aspect of the present invention is a print data generating device that generates print data for a printing device to print on a printing sheet, comprising: an accessory data storage unit that stores accessory data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, is associated with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates the mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after the printing process by the printing device; a processing type selection unit that presents a plurality of processing types and accepts selection of a processing type by an operator; an imposition specification unit that accepts specification by an operator of an imposition mode that represents an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; an accessory selection unit including an accessory list display unit that displays selectable accessory identifiers, and displays one or more accessory identifiers that specify one or more pieces of accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted by the processing type selection unit on the accessory list display unit by referring to the accessory data stored in the accessory data storage unit, and accepts a selection of the accessory identifier by an operator; an accessory-attached imposition data generating unit that generates accessory-attached imposition data by adding an accessory image based on accessory configuration information specified by the accessory identifier received by the accessory selecting unit to the imposition data representing the imposition aspect received by the imposition specifying unit; an overall imposition processing unit that generates the print data by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data; The present invention is characterized in that it is provided with:

[0010] The second invention is the first invention, The accessory data includes information on the model of a processing device that performs processing, The accessory selection unit includes a filtering unit that presents, on the accessory list display unit, only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information associated with a model designated by an operator.

[0011] The third invention relates to the first invention, The accessory data includes information about a manufacturer of a processing device that performs processing, The accessory selection unit includes a filtering unit that presents, on the accessory list display unit, only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information associated with a manufacturer designated by an operator.

[0012] The fourth invention relates to the first invention, The accessory data includes information on a manufacturer of a processing device that performs processing and information on a model of the processing device, The accessory selection unit is characterized by including a filtering unit that presents on the accessory list display unit only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information associated with both a manufacturer and a model specified by an operator.

[0013] The fifth invention relates to the first invention, The accessory data includes comment data, The accessory selection unit is characterized by including a filtering unit that presents on the accessory list display unit only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information associated with comment data including a text string specified by a worker.

[0014] The sixth aspect of the present invention relates to the first aspect of the present invention, The accessory data includes information on the model of a processing device that performs processing, The accessory list display unit may also display information about a model associated with the selectable accessory identifier.

[0015] The seventh aspect of the present invention is the first aspect of the present invention, When the processing type selection unit accepts the selection of the processing type by the worker, the imposition designation unit displays a screen for the worker to specify the imposition mode in accordance with the processing type accepted by the processing type selection unit.

[0016] The eighth aspect of the present invention is the first aspect of the present invention, The print data generating device further comprises an accessory-added imposition data correction unit for allowing an operator to correct an accessory image included in the accessory-added imposition data.

[0017] A ninth aspect of the present invention relates to the eighth aspect of the present invention, The accessory-attached imposition data generation unit is characterized in that when the accessory selection unit receives the selection of multiple accessory identifiers, it determines whether there is overlap among multiple accessory images based on multiple accessory configuration information identified by the multiple accessory identifiers.

[0018] The tenth aspect of the present invention is the first aspect of the present invention, The printing data generation device is characterized by further comprising an automatic accessory data generation unit that acquires device information in a predetermined format representing the specifications of the processing device from the processing device via a network, and generates the accessory data based on the device information.

[0019] The eleventh aspect of the present invention is the first aspect of the present invention, The print data generating device further comprises a rasterization processing unit that performs a rasterization process on the print data generated by the total imposition processing unit.

[0020] A twelfth aspect of the present invention is any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present invention, The print data generating device further comprises an accessory data correction unit that allows an operator to correct an accessory image included in the accessory data held in the accessory data holding unit.

[0021] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is a print data generating device that generates print data for a printing device to print on a printing paper, comprising: A display device; a storage device for storing accessory data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, is associated with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates the mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after the printing process by the printing device; Processor and Equipped with The processor, presenting a plurality of processing types on the display device and accepting a selection of the processing type by an operator; Accepting an imposition mode specification by an operator, which specifies an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; presenting, on the display device, one or more accessory identifiers that identify one or more pieces of accessory configuration information associated with the accepted processing type, with reference to the accessory data stored in the storage device, and accepting a selection of the accessory identifier by the operator; generating imposition data with accessories by adding an accessory image based on the accessory configuration information specified by the received accessory identifier to the imposition data representing the received imposition mode; The print data is generated by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data.

[0022] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a print data generating method for generating print data for a printing device to print on a printing paper, the method comprising: The print data generating device includes: A display unit; an accessory data storage unit that stores accessory data that associates accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside a printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates a mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after a printing process by the printing device; Equipped with The print data generating method includes: a processing type selection step of presenting a plurality of processing types on the display unit and accepting selection of a processing type by an operator; an imposition designation step of accepting designation by an operator of an imposition mode representing an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; an accessory selection step of displaying on the display unit one or more accessory identifiers that identify one or more accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted in the processing type selection step, by referring to the accessory data held in the accessory data holding unit, and accepting selection of the accessory identifier by the operator; an accessory-attached imposition data generating step of generating accessory-attached imposition data by adding an accessory image based on accessory configuration information specified by the accessory identifier received in the accessory selection step to the imposition data representing the imposition aspect received in the imposition designation step; an overall imposition processing step for generating the print data by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data; The present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0023] A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is a print data generation program for generating print data for a printing device to print on a printing paper, comprising: a display unit; and an accessory data storage unit that stores accessory data that associates accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates a mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after a printing process by the printing device; a processing type selection step of presenting a plurality of processing types on the display unit and accepting selection of a processing type by an operator; an imposition designation step of accepting designation by an operator of an imposition mode representing an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; an accessory selection step of displaying on the display unit one or more accessory identifiers that identify one or more accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted in the processing type selection step, by referring to the accessory data held in the accessory data holding unit, and accepting selection of the accessory identifier by the operator; an accessory-attached imposition data generating step of generating accessory-attached imposition data by adding an accessory image based on accessory configuration information specified by the accessory identifier received in the accessory selection step to the imposition data representing the imposition aspect received in the imposition designation step; an overall imposition processing step for generating the print data by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data; The present invention is characterized in that the above-mentioned is executed. Effect of the Invention

[0024] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the print data generating device holds accessory data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image, is associated with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that represents the mode of post-processing (a series of processing processes to be performed after printing). When the worker selects a processing type, a list of accessory identifiers associated with the selected processing type is presented on the accessory list display unit. When the worker selects one or more accessory identifiers, one or more accessory images identified by the selected one or more accessory identifiers are added to imposition data that represents the imposition mode specified by the worker, thereby generating accessory-attached imposition data. That is, if the accessory identifier is appropriately selected, desired accessory-attached imposition data that takes into account the specifications of one or more post-processing machines (processing devices) used in post-processing is generated. As a result, a print data generating device is realized that enables appropriate and prompt imposition editing work, including accessory design work, regardless of the level of skill of the worker. In addition, since the accessory image is prevented from being placed in an inappropriate position on the printing paper, the need for reprinting is reduced compared to the conventional case, and consumption of printing paper and ink can be reduced. In this way, it is possible to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

[0025] According to the second aspect of the present invention, in a printing system equipped with many models of post-processing devices, the selection of an appropriate accessory identifier becomes easy by using filtering based on the model.

[0026] According to the third aspect of the present invention, in a printing system equipped with post-processing devices from various manufacturers, by using filtering based on the manufacturer, it becomes easy to select an appropriate accessory identifier.

[0027] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in a printing system equipped with post-processing devices from various manufacturers and many models, by using filtering based on the manufacturer and model, it becomes easy to select an appropriate accessory identifier.

[0028] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when a system is adopted in which comment data is input as part of accessory data, filtering based on a text string can be used to facilitate selection of an appropriate accessory identifier.

[0029] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the accessory list display unit presents information on the model of the post-processing machine (processing device) in addition to the accessory identifier, so that an inappropriate accessory identifier is prevented from being selected.

[0030] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to quickly specify the imposition mode.

[0031] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, even if overlapping occurs among a plurality of accessory images in the generated accessory-added imposition data, the overlapping of the accessory images can be eliminated by an operation by the worker.

[0032] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, when multiple accessory images overlap in the generated accessory-attached imposition data, for example, it is possible to prompt an operator to correct the accessory images. This makes it possible to prevent the post-processing machine (processing device) from stopping processing due to the multiple accessory images overlapping.

[0033] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, even when post-processing is performed using a newly introduced post-processing machine (processing device), it is possible to appropriately and quickly carry out layout editing work, including accessory design work.

[0034] According to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to transmit rasterized print data from the print data generating device to the printing device.

[0035] According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, for example, by modifying the accessory image included in the accessory data stored in the accessory data storage unit, it becomes unnecessary to modify the accessory-attached imposition data generated by the accessory-attached imposition data generation unit. Also, for example, when a new post-processing machine (processing device) is introduced, accessory data corresponding to the new post-processing machine can be created based on the accessory data corresponding to the existing post-processing machine.

[0036] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the same effects as those of the first aspect of the present invention can be obtained.

[0037] According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the same effects as those of the first aspect of the present invention can be obtained.

[0038] According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the same effects as those of the first aspect of the present invention can be obtained. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a post-processing machine group in the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an inkjet printing apparatus in the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the print data generating device in the embodiment. [Diagram 5] 13 is a diagram for explaining an accessory image in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the overall processing flow in the embodiment. [Figure 7] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of accessory preset data in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration realized by executing a print data generating program in the embodiment. [Figure 9] 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a print data generation process in the embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a plurality of accessory preset data stored in an accessory preset data storage unit in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a layout editing screen in the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a layout editing screen after a processing type has been selected in the embodiment. [Figure 13] 11 is a diagram showing an example of an accessory preset selection screen in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14] 13 is a diagram for explaining an on / off button included in the accessory preset selection screen in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a setting example when filtering preset names in the embodiment. [Figure 16] 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining presentation of a list of preset names in a drop-down list on an accessory preset selection screen in the embodiment. [Figure 17] 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining presentation of a list of preset names in a drop-down list on an accessory preset selection screen in the embodiment. [Figure 18] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a list of preset names presented in a drop-down list on an accessory preset selection screen when no setting is made to perform filtering in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 19] 13 is a diagram for explaining filtering of preset names in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 20] 13 is a diagram for explaining filtering of preset names in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 21]13 is a diagram for explaining filtering of preset names in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an accessory preset selection screen when three preset names are selected in the embodiment. [Figure 23] 13 is a diagram for explaining generation of imposition data with accessories in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 24] 13 is a diagram for explaining generation of imposition data with accessories in the embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 25] 13 is a diagram for explaining generation of imposition data with accessories in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 26] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining the need to adjust the position of an accessory image or the like in the embodiment. [Figure 27] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining the need to adjust the position of an accessory image or the like in the embodiment. [Figure 28] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining the need to adjust the position of an accessory image or the like in the embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a detailed edit screen in the embodiment. [Diagram 30] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a detailed editing screen after adjustment of the position of an accessory image in the embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 31] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an accessory preset selection screen in the first modified example of the embodiment. [Diagram 32] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an accessory preset selection screen after a text string for filtering has been input in the first modified example. [Diagram 33] FIG. 11 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration related to automatic generation of accessory preset data in a second modified example of the embodiment. [Diagram 34]FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration realized by executing a print data generating program in a third modified example of the embodiment. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a customization screen in the third modified example. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the use of accessory preset data in the form of a cloud in the third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] <1. Overall composition> 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. This printing system 1 is made up of a print data generating device 100, an inkjet printing device 200, a web buffer 300, and a group of post-processing machines 400. The print data generating device 100, the inkjet printing device 200, the web buffer 300, and the group of post-processing machines 400 are communicatively connected via a network 5 such as a LAN.

[0042] The print data generating device 100 generates print data by performing rasterization processing and the like on input data such as a PDF file. In this regard, the print data is generated taking into consideration the results of the layout editing work performed by an operator. The print data generated by the print data generating device 100 is transmitted to the inkjet printing device 200 via a network 5. The inkjet printing device 200 is composed of a printing machine main body 20 and a print control device 29 that controls the operation of the printing machine main body 20. The inkjet printing device 200 outputs a print image on printing paper as a printing medium based on the print data transmitted from the print data generating device 100 without using a printing plate.

[0043] 1, the web buffer 300 is provided between the inkjet printing apparatus 200 and the post-processing machine group 400. Printed printing paper is supplied from the inkjet printing apparatus 200 to the post-processing machine group 400 via the web buffer 300. In order to absorb the difference in processing speed between the inkjet printing apparatus 200 and the post-processing machine group 400, the web buffer 300 temporarily holds the printed printing paper as appropriate.

[0044] The post-processing machine group 400 is made up of a plurality of devices (post-processing machines) for performing post-processing (post-treatment) on printed printing paper. As an example, as shown in Fig. 2, the post-processing machine group 400 is made up of a sheet cutter machine 410 that cuts the continuous paper printed by the inkjet printing device 200 to a specified size, a folding machine 420 that creates quires from the printing paper cut to the specified size, a collating machine 430 that assembles a plurality of quires, a stitching machine 440 that stitches the quires in the collated state, and a three-side trimmer 450 that performs finishing trimming on three sides (top, bottom, and fore-edge) of the book.

[0045] As described above, in this embodiment, a configuration (i.e., an in-line configuration) is adopted in which the printed printing paper is directly supplied from the inkjet printing device 200 to the post-processing machine group 400 via the web buffer 300. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which the post-processing machine group is not in-lined can also be adopted.

[0046] <2. Configuration of the inkjet printing device> 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the inkjet printing apparatus 200. As described above, the inkjet printing apparatus 200 is made up of the printing machine main body 20 and the print control device 29 which is its controller.

[0047] The printer body 20 includes a paper feed section 21 that supplies print paper (here, roll paper) PA, a first print mechanism 20a that prints on the front side of the print paper PA, a reversing unit 27 that reverses the front and back sides of the print paper PA output from the first print mechanism 20a, and a second print mechanism 20b that prints on the back side of the print paper PA. The first print mechanism 20a includes a first drive roller 22a for transporting the print paper PA to the inside, a plurality of support rollers 23a for transporting the print paper PA inside the first print mechanism 20a, a print section 24a that ejects ink onto the print paper PA to perform printing, a dryer 25a that dries the print paper PA after printing, and a second drive roller 26a for outputting the print paper PA from inside the first print mechanism 20a. The printing unit 24a is composed of, for example, inkjet head rows of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) colors arranged in a row in the transport direction of the print paper PA. Each inkjet head row is composed of a plurality of inkjet heads (print heads) arranged in a staggered pattern. Each inkjet head includes a number of nozzles that eject ink. The configuration of the second printing mechanism 20b is similar to that of the first printing mechanism 20a, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Note that the components of the first printing mechanism 20a are designated by the suffix "a," and the components of the second printing mechanism 20b are designated by the suffix "b."

[0048] The print control device 29 controls the operation of the printing press main body 20 configured as described above. When a print output instruction command is given to the print control device 29, the print control device 29 controls the operation of the printing press main body 20 so that the printing paper PA is transported from the paper delivery unit 21 to the inside. Then, in each of the first printing mechanism 20a and the second printing mechanism 20b, first, the printing units 24a and 24b print on the printing paper PA, and then the drying units 25a and 25b dry the printing paper PA.

[0049] Here, the configuration of the inkjet printing device 200 for color printing has been exemplified, but the present invention can also be applied to the case where an inkjet printing device for monochrome printing is used. In addition, the configuration of the inkjet printing device 200 using aqueous ink has been exemplified, but the present invention can also be applied to the case where an inkjet printing device using UV ink (ultraviolet-curable ink) such as an inkjet printing device for label printing is used. Furthermore, here, the configuration of the inkjet printing device 200 consisting of a first printing mechanism 20a for front surface printing and a second printing mechanism 20b for back surface printing has been exemplified, but the present invention can also be applied to the case where an inkjet printing device not equipped with the second printing mechanism 20b for back surface printing is used.

[0050] <3. Hardware configuration of the print data generating device> FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the print data generating device 100. As shown in FIG. 4, the print data generating device 100 includes a main body 110, an auxiliary storage device 121, an optical disk drive 122, a display unit 123, a keyboard 124, and a mouse 125. The main body 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111 as a processor, a memory 112, a first disk interface unit 113, a second disk interface unit 114, a display control unit 115, an input interface unit 116, and a network interface unit 117. The CPU 111, the memory 112, the first disk interface unit 113, the second disk interface unit 114, the display control unit 115, the input interface unit 116, and the network interface unit 117 are connected to each other via a system bus. The auxiliary storage device 121 is connected to the first disk interface unit 113. The optical disk drive 122 is connected to the second disk interface unit 114. The display control unit 115 is connected to a display unit (display device) 123. A keyboard 124 and a mouse 125 are connected to the input interface unit 116. A network 5 is connected to the network interface unit 117. The auxiliary storage device 121 is a magnetic disk device or the like. An optical disk 6 serving as a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM is inserted into the optical disk drive 122. The display unit 123 is a liquid crystal display or the like. The display unit 123 is used to display information desired by an operator. The keyboard 124 and the mouse 125 are used by an operator to input instructions to this print data generating device 100.

[0051] The auxiliary storage device 121 stores the print data generation program P. The CPU 111 as a processor reads the print data generation program P stored in the auxiliary storage device 121 into the memory 112 and executes it to realize various functions of the print data generating device 100. The memory 112 includes a RAM and a ROM. The memory 112 functions as a work area for the CPU 111 to execute the print data generation program P stored in the auxiliary storage device 121. The print data generation program P is stored in the computer-readable recording medium (non-transient recording medium) and provided. That is, for example, a user purchases an optical disk 6 as a recording medium for the print data generation program P, inserts it into the optical disk drive 122, reads the print data generation program P from the optical disk 6, and installs it in the auxiliary storage device 121. Alternatively, the print data generation program P transmitted via the network 5 may be received by the network interface unit 117 and installed in the auxiliary storage device 121.

[0052] <4. Overview of the overall process> An outline of the overall process in this embodiment will be described. Conventionally, when performing imprint editing work, the worker had to determine accessory images one by one and set the position of the accessory image. In contrast, in this embodiment, data including information indicating the content and position (position on the printing paper) of the accessory image is prepared in advance as accessory preset data in the print data generating device 100, and the worker only needs to select the accessory preset data according to the type of processing (type of bookbinding processing) and the post-processing machine (processing device) to be used as the accessory design work.

[0053] Here, the accessory image will be described with reference to FIG. 5. When post-processing is performed using a post-processing machine after printing on the printing paper, the accessory image is arranged (printed) outside the printing area of ​​the actual image on the printing paper, for example, as shown in FIG. 5. In the example shown in FIG. 5, a printer's mark 51 which serves as a guide when cutting the printing paper, a print start mark 52 which indicates the start position of printing based on one print job, a section mark 53 which indicates a section break, a cutter mark 54 which the sheet cutter machine refers to, and a barcode 55 which uniquely identifies the print job are arranged outside the printing area of ​​the actual image. The position where each accessory image should be arranged is determined according to the specifications of the post-processing machine which requires each accessory image. In this regard, for example, even if a folding machine with a model name of "A" and a folding machine with a model name of "B" are folding machines of the same manufacturer, the position where the accessory image required by the folding machine with a model name of "A" should be arranged may differ from the position where the accessory image required by the folding machine with a model name of "B" should be arranged depending on their specifications.

[0054] With reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 6, an outline of the overall process flow in this embodiment will be described. First, the above-mentioned accessory preset data is created for each post-processing machine according to the specifications on a personal computer or the like external to the printing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 (step S10). Note that multiple accessory preset data may be created for one post-processing machine. After the accessory preset data for each of the multiple post-processing machines is created, the accessory preset data is introduced into the print data generating device 100 (step S20). Specifically, the accessory preset data is stored in the accessory preset data holding unit 10, which will be described later. In this regard, typically, the accessory preset data holding unit 10 is realized by the auxiliary storage device 121 (see FIG. 4), and when the print data generating program P is installed in the auxiliary storage device 121, the accessory preset data is also stored in the auxiliary storage device 121. After the accessory preset data is introduced into the print data generating device 100, the print data generating device 100 performs a print data generating process (a process of generating print data for the inkjet printing device 200 to print on the print paper PA). Note that the detailed procedure of the print data generating process will be described later. After the print data is generated, the inkjet printing device 200 prints on the print paper based on the print data (step S40). After that, the printed print paper is subjected to post-processing by a post-processing machine included in the post-processing machine group 400 according to the processing type (type of bookbinding processing) (step S50). In this manner, the final product such as a book is obtained.

[0055] Next, the accessory preset data created in step S10 will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the accessory preset data. As shown in FIG. 7, the accessory preset data includes, as data items, a preset name, a processing type, a manufacturer, a model, an update date and time, and accessory configuration information. The preset name is a name for uniquely identifying a record as the accessory preset data. In this embodiment, the accessory identifier is realized by this preset name. The accessory configuration information is information representing the accessory image itself and information representing the arrangement position of the accessory image. In other words, the accessory configuration information is information necessary for printing the accessory image. However, the data item "accessory configuration information" field of the accessory preset data typically stores information of a link destination that holds information necessary for printing the accessory image.

[0056] <5. Functional configuration of the print data generating device> Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration realized by the CPU 111 executing the print data generation program P by using the memory 112 in the print data generating device 100. Note that components not directly related to the present invention are omitted in Fig. 8. By executing the print data generation program P, the print data generating device 100 is provided with an accessory preset data holding unit 10, a processing type selection unit 11, an imposition designation unit 12, an accessory preset selection unit 13, an accessory-attached imposition data generation unit 14, a correction unit 15, a total imposition processing unit 16, and a rasterization processing unit 17, as shown in Fig. 8. The accessory preset selection unit 13 includes an accessory preset list display unit 131 and a filtering unit 132.

[0057] The accessory preset data storage unit 10 stores the above-mentioned accessory preset data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that should be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on submitted data on a printing paper, is associated with a preset name for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates the mode of post-processing (a series of processing steps to be performed after printing by the inkjet printing device 200). As described above, the accessory preset data storage unit 10 is realized by the auxiliary storage device 121.

[0058] The processing type selection unit 11 presents a plurality of processing types on the display unit 123 and accepts the selection of the processing type by the worker. The imposition specification unit 12 displays a screen for specifying an imposition mode representing the arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet on the display unit 123 and accepts the specification of the imposition mode by the worker.

[0059] The accessory preset selection unit 13 presents one or more preset names that identify one or more accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted by the processing type selection unit 11 on the accessory preset list display unit 131 with reference to the accessory preset data held in the accessory preset data holding unit 10, and accepts the selection of a preset name by the operator. When the accessory preset data is presented on the accessory preset list display unit 131, filtering is performed by the filtering unit 132. Specifically, when a manufacturer is designated by the operator, only preset names that identify accessory configuration information associated with the designated manufacturer are presented on the accessory preset list display unit 131 by the filtering unit 132, when a model of a post-processing machine (processing device) is designated by the operator, only preset names that identify accessory configuration information associated with the designated model are presented on the accessory preset list display unit 131 by the filtering unit 132, and when both a manufacturer and a model are designated by the operator, only preset names that identify accessory configuration information associated with both the designated manufacturer and model are presented on the accessory preset list display unit 131 by the filtering unit 132. Also, the accessory preset selection unit 13 is configured to be able to accept multiple selections of preset names by the operator for one printing process. In this embodiment, the accessory selection unit is realized by the accessory preset selection unit 13, the accessory list display unit is realized by the accessory preset list display unit 131, the accessory data is realized by the accessory preset data, and the accessory identifier is realized by the preset name.

[0060] The accessory-added imposition data generating unit 14 generates accessory-added imposition data 31 by adding an accessory image based on the accessory configuration information specified by the preset name received by the accessory preset selecting unit 13 to the imposition data representing the imposition mode received by the imposition specifying unit 12. Note that this accessory-added imposition data 31 is temporarily stored in the auxiliary storage device 121 or memory 112 in the print data generating device 100.

[0061] The correction unit 15, based on an operation by a worker, corrects the accessory image included in the accessory-added imposition data 31. In this embodiment, the correction unit 15 realizes an accessory-added imposition data correction unit.

[0062] The overall imposition processing unit 16 generates print data 33 by imposing all pages included in the input data 32 based on the accessory-added imposition data 31. The rasterization processing unit 17 performs rasterization processing on the print data 33 generated by the overall imposition processing unit 16, thereby generating rasterized print data 34.

[0063] <6. Print Data Generation Process (Print Data Generation Method)> Next, the procedure of the print data generation process in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 9. However, here, a description of the process that is not directly related to the present invention will be omitted. Also, here, it is assumed that the accessory preset data as shown in Fig. 10 is stored in the accessory preset data storage unit 10.

[0064] After the print data generation process starts, the worker first selects the type of post-processing (step S300). In detail, in step S300, the processing type selection unit 11 first displays on the display unit 123 a screen 60 as shown in FIG. 11 (hereinafter, referred to as the "layout editing screen"), which is a screen for the worker to select the type of processing and specify the imposition mode.

[0065] The layout editing screen 60 includes a processing type selection area 61 and an imposition mode designation area 62. The processing type selection area 61 is configured to allow tab switching. The processing types and the tabs correspond one-to-one, and the worker selects the tab corresponding to the desired processing type. That is, the processing type is selected by selecting the tab. In the example shown in FIG. 11, four processing types, namely, "cut & stack", "plow fold", "cross fold", and "saddle stitch", excluding "other", are presented in the processing type selection area 61. The imposition mode designation area 62 is configured to allow the worker to designate the imposition mode. The contents displayed in the imposition mode designation area 62 differ depending on the processing type selected by the worker. The contents displayed in the imposition mode designation area 62 in FIG. 11 are the contents when "cut & stack" is selected as the processing type. In addition, "N-up" represents the number of pages to be included in one sheet.

[0066] The imposition editing screen 60 also includes a binding position designation area 63, a selection button 64, and a close button 65. The binding position designation area 63 is an area for the worker to designate whether the binding position will be on the left or right when binding. The selection button 64 is a button that the worker presses after selecting the processing type and designating the imposition mode. The close button 65 is a button that the worker presses to hide the imposition editing screen 60.

[0067] The presentation of a plurality of processing types in the processing type selection area 61 in the layout editing screen 60 and the acceptance of the selection of the processing type in the processing type selection area 61 are performed by the processing type selection unit 11.

[0068] After the type of post-processing is selected on the imposition editing screen 60, the imposition mode (the arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet) is specified by the worker (step S310). Here, it is assumed that the worker selected "cross folding" in step S300. In this case, the imposition editing screen 60 becomes a screen as shown in FIG. 12. In this example, the imposition mode designation area 62 is configured so that the N-up can be designated from among "2×2", "2×3", and "4×2". Selecting one of "2×2", "2×3", and "4×2" corresponds to designating the imposition mode. In step S310, the imposition mode is designated by the worker in this manner, and the designation is accepted by the imposition designation unit 12.

[0069] After that, the processes of steps S320 to S340 are typically repeated the same number of times as the number of post-processing machines that require accessory images among the post-processing machines used in post-processing. When the operator presses the select button 64 on the layout editing screen 60 shown in Fig. 12, a screen (hereinafter referred to as the "accessory preset selection screen") 70 as shown in Fig. 13, which is a screen for the operator to select a preset name, is displayed on the display unit 123 by the accessory preset selection unit 13. With this accessory preset selection screen 70 displayed, the processes of steps S320 to S340 are performed.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 13, the accessory preset selection screen 70 includes a filtering designation area 71, a drop-down list 72, a select button 73, a cancel button 74, and an add button 75. The filtering designation area 71 is configured so that an operator can set filtering of preset names displayed in the drop-down list 72. The drop-down list 72 presents a list of selectable preset names, and it is possible to select one of the one or more presented preset names. The select button 73 is a button that an operator presses after selecting one preset name from the drop-down list 72. The cancel button 74 is a button that an operator presses when he or she wishes to cancel an operation performed using the accessory preset selection screen 70. The add button 75 is a button that an operator presses when it is necessary to add a preset name to be selected.

[0071] The filtering designation area 71 includes an on / off button 711, a drop-down list 712, an on / off button 713, and a drop-down list 714. The on / off button 711 is a button for setting whether or not filtering based on a manufacturer is enabled. The drop-down list 712 presents a list of selectable manufacturers, and one of the presented one or more manufacturers can be selected. The on / off button 713 is a button for setting whether or not filtering based on a model of a post-processing machine (processing device) is enabled. The drop-down list 714 presents a list of selectable models, and one of the presented one or more models can be selected. If the state of the on / off button 711 is as shown in part A of FIG. 14, filtering based on a manufacturer is enabled, and if the state of the on / off button 711 is as shown in part B of FIG. 14, filtering based on a manufacturer is disabled. The same applies to the on / off button 713.

[0072] After the accessory preset selection screen 70 as described above is displayed, the preset names displayed in the drop-down list 72 are filtered as necessary (step S320). In step S320, the operator sets the filtering in the filtering designation area 71. For example, when filtering based on the manufacturer "XYZ", the operator sets the filtering as shown in FIG. 15. When the operator sets the filtering, accessory preset data that matches the set conditions is extracted from the accessory preset data storage unit 10 by the filtering unit 132.

[0073] In step S330, a list of preset names that can be selected by the operator is presented in the drop-down list 72 in the accessory preset selection screen 70. In this regard, if the filtering designation area 71 in the accessory preset selection screen 70 is not set to perform filtering, all preset names associated with the processing type designated in step S300 are presented in the drop-down list 72. If the filtering designation area 71 is set to perform filtering based on the manufacturer, only preset names associated with the manufacturer designated by the operator are presented in the drop-down list 72. If the filtering designation area 71 is set to perform filtering based on the model, only preset names associated with the model designated by the operator are presented in the drop-down list 72. If the filtering designation area 71 is set to perform filtering based on the manufacturer and model, only preset names associated with both the manufacturer and model designated by the operator are presented in the drop-down list 72. In step S320, a list of selectable preset names is presented in the drop-down list 72, as shown in FIG. 16, for example. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, information on the model associated with each selectable preset name may be presented in a drop-down list 72 together with the selectable preset name.

[0074] As described above, it is assumed here that the accessory preset data holding unit 10 holds accessory preset data as shown in FIG. 10. Under this assumption, if filtering is not set and "saddle stitching" is selected as the processing type, a list of multiple preset names as shown in FIG. 18 is presented in the drop-down list 72. If filtering is not set and "cross folding" is selected as the processing type, a list of multiple preset names as shown in FIG. 19 is presented in the drop-down list 72. Furthermore, if filtering based on manufacturer "XYZ" is set in the filtering designation area 71 in the state shown in FIG. 18, the list of preset names presented in the drop-down list 72 will be as shown in FIG. 20. Furthermore, if filtering based on model "KY" is set in the filtering designation area in the state shown in FIG. 20, the list of preset names presented in the drop-down list 72 will be as shown in FIG. 21.

[0075] After the list of preset names is presented in the drop-down list 72 in the accessory preset selection screen 70 as described above, the operator selects a preset name (step S340). The operator's selection of the preset name is accepted by the accessory preset selection unit 13.

[0076] As described above, the above-described processing of steps S320 to S340 is typically repeated the same number of times as the number of post-processing machines that require accessory images among the post-processing machines used in post-processing. Fig. 22 shows an example of the accessory preset selection screen 70 after the processing of steps S320 to S340 has been repeated three times. In this example, the preset name of the accessory preset data required for processing by the sheet cutter 410 is selected in the "Accessory 1" field, the preset name of the accessory preset data required for processing by the folding machine 420 is selected in the "Accessory 2" field, and the preset name of the accessory preset data required for processing by the stitcher 440 is selected in the "Accessory 3" field.

[0077] After the processing of steps S320 to S340 is repeated to select a required number of accessory preset data (select a preset name), the accessory-attached imposition data generating unit 14 adds an accessory image based on the accessory configuration information specified by the preset name selected in step S340 to the imposition data representing the imposition mode specified in step S310, thereby generating the accessory-attached imposition data 31 (step S350). In this regard, if the accessory preset data including the cutter mark 56 as an accessory image and shown in FIG. 23 and the accessory preset data including the two-dimensional code 57 as an accessory image and shown in FIG. 24 are selected on the accessory preset selection screen 70, the accessory-attached imposition data 31 including the cutter mark 56 and the two-dimensional code 57 and shown in FIG. 25 are generated in step S350.

[0078] After the accessory-added imposition data 31 is generated, an image corresponding to the accessory-added imposition data 31 is displayed on the display unit 123, and the operator determines whether or not it is necessary to adjust the position of the accessory image (step S360). In this regard, for example, when accessory preset data including a section mark 58 as an accessory image and shown in FIG. 26 and accessory preset data including a two-dimensional code 59 as an accessory image and shown in FIG. 27 are selected on the accessory preset selection screen 70, the accessory-added imposition data 31 shown in FIG. 28 is generated in step S350. In the portion indicated by the reference numeral 87 in FIG. 28, the section mark 58 and the two-dimensional code 59 overlap each other. When multiple accessory images overlap each other in this way, the post-processing machine does not perform the processing process correctly. Therefore, the print data generating device 100 is provided with the above-mentioned correction unit 15 for correcting the accessory image included in the accessory-added imposition data 31. Whether or not adjustment using the corrector 15 (adjustment of the position of the accessory image, etc.) is required is determined in step S360.

[0079] When multiple preset names are selected in step S340 (when the accessory preset selection unit 13 accepts the selection of multiple preset names), the accessory-attached imposition data generation unit 14 may determine in step S360 whether or not there is overlap among multiple accessory images based on multiple accessory configuration information specified by the multiple preset names. If there is overlap among multiple accessory images, a message may be displayed on the display unit 123, for example.

[0080] If it is determined in step S360 that adjustment is necessary, the process proceeds to step S370. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S360 that adjustment is not necessary, the process proceeds to step S380.

[0081] In step S370, the worker adjusts the position of the accessory image constituting the accessory-added imposition data 31. In this step S370, first, the worker selects a predetermined menu, and the correction unit 15 displays a detailed editing screen 80 for editing operation, for example, as shown in FIG. 29, on the display unit 123. The detailed editing screen 80 includes an editing area 81, an editing icon area 82, a save button 83, and a cancel button 84. The editing area 81 is an area where the worker can edit the accessory image. The editing icon area 82 includes n icons 82(1) to 82(n) that the worker presses when performing various operations. The save button 83 is a button that the worker presses when saving the accessory-added imposition data 31 after editing the accessory image. The cancel button 84 is a button that the worker presses when canceling all editing operations performed on the accessory image.

[0082] By using the detailed editing screen 80, when accessory images overlap as in the portion marked with reference numeral 88 in Fig. 29, the positions of the accessory images can be adjusted to eliminate the overlap of the accessory images as in the portion marked with reference numeral 89 in Fig. 30. In this way, editing of accessory images is possible, and thus it is possible to prevent the post-processing machine from stopping processing due to the occurrence of overlapping accessory images.

[0083] In step S380, the full imposition processing unit 16 performs imposition of all pages included in the input data 32 based on the accessory-added imposition data 31 (step S380). As a result, the print data 33 is generated.

[0084] Thereafter, the rasterization processor 17 performs rasterization on the print data 33 generated in step S380, thereby generating rasterized print data 34 (step S390), which completes the print data generation process.

[0085] In this embodiment, step S300 realizes a processing type selection step, step S310 realizes an imposition specification step, steps S320 to S340 realize an accessory selection step, step S350 realizes a step of generating imposition data with accessories, and step S380 realizes an overall imposition processing step.

[0086] <7. Effects> According to this embodiment, accessory preset data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image, is associated with a preset name for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that represents the mode of post-processing (a series of processing processes to be performed after printing processing) is prepared in advance in the print data generating device 100. Under such a premise, in the print data generating process, after a layout editing screen 60 that allows the operator to select a processing type and specify an imposition mode is displayed, an accessory preset selection screen 70 including a drop-down list 72 that presents a list of preset names of accessory preset data associated with the processing type selected by the operator is displayed. When the operator selects one or more preset names, accessory-attached imposition data is generated by adding one or more accessory images identified by the selected one or more preset names to imposition data representing the imposition mode specified by the operator. Since the accessory preset data including the above-mentioned accessory configuration information is prepared in advance in the print data generating device 100, if the preset name is appropriately selected, the desired accessory-attached imposition data 31 that takes into account the specifications of one or more post-processing machines used in post-processing is generated. As described above, according to the present embodiment, a print data generating device is realized that enables proper and rapid layout editing work, including accessory design work, regardless of the level of proficiency of the worker. In addition, since the accessory image is prevented from being placed in an inappropriate position on the printing paper, the need for reprinting is reduced compared to the conventional method, and the consumption of printing paper and ink can be reduced. In this way, it is possible to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

[0087] <8. Variations> A modification of the above embodiment will be described below, with only differences from the above embodiment being described.

[0088] <8.1 First modified example> In the above embodiment, filtering based on manufacturer and model was possible for the preset names presented in the drop-down list 72 in the accessory preset selection screen 70. However, this is not limited thereto, and filtering based on a text string may also be possible as described below.

[0089] In this modification, the accessory preset data includes a "comment" as a data item instead of the "model" in the above embodiment. The "comment" data item field of the accessory preset data stored in the accessory preset data storage unit 10 stores model information and information required for operation.

[0090] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of an accessory preset selection screen 70 in this modified example. A filtering specification area 71 in this accessory preset selection screen 70 includes an on / off button 711, a drop-down list 712, an on / off button 715, a drop-down list 716, and a text box 717. The on / off button 715 is a button for setting whether or not filtering based on a text string is enabled. A plurality of filtering conditions are presented in the drop-down list 716, and it is possible to select one of the presented conditions. Examples of conditions presented in the drop-down list 716 include "contains", "does not contain", and "exactly matches". The text box 717 allows input of a text string for filtering.

[0091] For example, when wanting to present only the preset names of accessory preset data having a comment including the text string "JP" (preset names that identify the accessory configuration information associated with the comment including the text string "JP") in the drop-down list 72 on the accessory preset selection screen 70, the operator sets up filtering as shown in FIG. 32.

[0092] <8.2 Second modified example> In the above embodiment, it is assumed that accessory preset data created on a personal computer or the like external to the printing system 1 is introduced into the print data generating device 100 in the printing system 1. However, as described below, components that generate accessory preset data may be provided within the print data generating device 100.

[0093] In this modification, in addition to the components in the above embodiment (see FIG. 8), the print data generating device 100 is provided with an accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18 as shown in FIG. 33. The accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18 is a functional component that is realized by the CPU 111 of the print data generating device 100 executing the print data generation program P using the memory 112. The accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18 acquires device information in a predetermined format that indicates the specifications of the post-processing device (processing device) from the post-processing device via the network 5, and generates accessory preset data based on the acquired device information. The accessory preset data automatic generation unit is realized by this accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18.

[0094] For example, when a sheet cutter 410 is newly installed in the printing system 1, the accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18 first acquires device information 510 from the sheet cutter 410 via the network 5, as shown in Fig. 33. Then, the accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18 generates accessory preset data based on the acquired device information 510. The accessory preset data generated by the accessory preset data automatic generation unit 18 is stored in the accessory preset data holding unit 10.

[0095] According to this modified example, even when post-processing is performed using a post-processing machine newly installed in the printing system 1, it is possible to perform layout editing work, including accessory design work, appropriately and quickly.

[0096] <8.3 Third modified example> Fig. 34 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration realized by the CPU 111 executing the print data generation program P by using the memory 112 in the print data generating device 100 in this modified example. As shown in Fig. 34, the print data generating device 100 is provided with a customization unit 19 in addition to the components in the above embodiment (see Fig. 8). The customization unit 19 modifies the accessory image included in the accessory preset data stored in the accessory preset data storage unit 10 based on an operation by an operator. In this way, in this modified example, it is possible to edit the accessory image constituting the accessory preset data stored in the accessory preset data storage unit 10. Note that the customization unit 19 realizes an accessory data modification unit.

[0097] In this modification, when a predetermined menu is selected by the operator in the print data generating device 100, the customization unit 19 displays a customization screen 90 on the display unit 123 as shown in FIG. 35. The customization screen 90 includes an editing area 91, an editing icon area 92, an overwrite save button 93, a save as another name button 94, and a cancel button 95. The editing area 91 is an area where the operator can edit the accessory image. In the example shown in FIG. 35, one cutter mark 910 is included in the editing area 91 as an accessory image. The editing icon area 92 includes n icons 92(1) to 92(n) that the operator presses when performing various operations. The overwrite save button 93 is a button that the operator presses when overwriting and saving the accessory preset data after editing the accessory image. The save as another name button 94 is a button that the operator presses when saving the accessory preset data after editing the accessory image with a name (preset name) different from the accessory preset data before editing. The cancel button 95 is a button that the operator presses when canceling all editing work performed on the accessory image.

[0098] An operator can read out the accessory preset data stored in the accessory preset data storage unit 10 and edit the accessory image included in the accessory preset data on the customization screen 90.

[0099] According to this modified example, for example, by editing the accessory image contained in the accessory preset data stored in the accessory preset data storage unit 10, it becomes unnecessary for the modification unit 15 to carry out modification work on the accessory-attached imposition data 31 generated by the accessory-attached imposition data generation unit 14.

[0100] Furthermore, when a new post-processing machine is introduced into the printing system 1, accessory preset data corresponding to the new post-processing machine can be created based on accessory preset data corresponding to the existing post-processing machine.

[0101] Furthermore, by storing accessory preset data in a database or the like that can be referenced from multiple locations, the printing system can be operated efficiently. This will be described with reference to FIG. 36. It is assumed that k print data generating devices 100(1) to 100(k) at k locations, where k is an integer of 2 or more, are each connected to a communication line such as the Internet. Here, a cloud server 9 connected to the communication line is prepared, and an accessory preset database 99 that stores a large number of accessory preset data is provided in the cloud server 9. The accessory preset database 99 also stores accessory preset data created by the customization unit 19 based on certain accessory preset data. With the above configuration, it is possible to share one accessory preset data among multiple locations, and it is also possible to easily manage the accessory preset data even if the specifications of the post-processing machine differ depending on the location. In this way, by using the accessory preset data in the form of a cloud, the printing system can be operated efficiently.

[0102] <9. Supplementary Information> In the above embodiment, the CPU 111 as a processor executes the print data generating program P to realize various functions of the print data generating device 100. However, the present invention is not limited to the configuration using only one CPU 111 as shown in FIG. 4. A configuration using multiple processors, such as a configuration using multiple CPUs, can also be adopted. As the processor, in addition to the CPU, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. can also be adopted. In addition, a combination of multiple types of processors can also be used. For example, with respect to the components shown in FIG. 8, some components and the remaining components may be realized by different processors. Furthermore, a configuration including an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) can also be adopted. For example, the rasterization process by the rasterization processing unit 17 can be performed by an ASIC.

[0103] <10.Other> The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment (including the modified examples), and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the rasterized print data 34 is sent from the print data generating device 100 to the inkjet printing device 200, but the print data 33 before rasterization may be sent from the print data generating device 100 to the inkjet printing device 200, and the rasterization may be performed by the print control device 29 in the inkjet printing device 200. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1. Printing system 10...Accessory preset data storage section 11... Processing type selection section 12...Imposition specification section 13. Accessory preset selection section 14…Accessory-equipped imposition data generator 15…Revision section 16... Overall imposition processing section 17...Rasterization processing section 18…Accessory preset data automatic generation section 19…Customization section 60…Layout editing screen 70...Accessory preset selection screen 80...Detailed editing screen 90…Customization screen 100...print data generating device 131...Accessory preset list display section 132...Filtering section 200...Inkjet printing device 400…Post-processing machine group P: Print data generation program

Claims

1. A print data generating device that generates print data for a printing device to print on a printing paper, an accessory data storage unit that stores accessory data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, is associated with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates the mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after the printing process by the printing device; a processing type selection unit that presents a plurality of processing types and accepts selection of a processing type by an operator; an imposition specification unit that accepts specification by an operator of an imposition mode that represents an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; an accessory selection unit including an accessory list display unit that displays selectable accessory identifiers, and displays one or more accessory identifiers that specify one or more pieces of accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted by the processing type selection unit on the accessory list display unit by referring to the accessory data stored in the accessory data storage unit, and accepts a selection of the accessory identifier by an operator; an accessory-attached imposition data generating unit that generates accessory-attached imposition data by adding an accessory image based on accessory configuration information specified by the accessory identifier received by the accessory selecting unit to the imposition data representing the imposition aspect received by the imposition specifying unit; an overall imposition processing unit that generates the print data by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data; A print data generating device comprising:

2. The accessory data includes information on the model of a processing device that performs processing, The printing data generating device according to claim 1 , characterized in that the accessory selection unit includes a filtering unit that presents on the accessory list display unit only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information associated with a model specified by an operator.

3. The accessory data includes information about a manufacturer of a processing device that performs processing, The printing data generating device according to claim 1 , characterized in that the accessory selection unit includes a filtering unit that presents on the accessory list display unit only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information associated with a manufacturer specified by an operator.

4. The accessory data includes information on a manufacturer of a processing device that performs processing and information on a model of the processing device, The printing data generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the accessory selection unit includes a filtering unit that presents on the accessory list display unit only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information that corresponds to both the manufacturer and model specified by the operator.

5. The accessory data includes comment data, The printing data generating device described in claim 1, characterized in that the accessory selection unit includes a filtering unit that presents on the accessory list display unit only accessory identifiers that identify accessory configuration information that is associated with comment data including a text string specified by a worker.

6. The accessory data includes information on the model of a processing device that performs processing, 2. The print data generating device according to claim 1, wherein the accessory list display unit also displays information about a model associated with the selectable accessory identifier.

7. The printing data generating device of claim 1, characterized in that when the processing type selection unit accepts a selection of a processing type by a worker, the imposition designation unit displays a screen for the worker to specify the imposition type in accordance with the processing type accepted by the processing type selection unit.

8. 2. The print data generating device according to claim 1, further comprising an accessory-added imposition data correction unit for allowing an operator to correct an accessory image included in the accessory-added imposition data.

9. The printing data generating device described in claim 8, characterized in that the accessory-attached imposition data generating unit determines whether overlap occurs among multiple accessory images based on multiple accessory configuration information identified by the multiple accessory identifiers when the accessory selection unit accepts the selection of multiple accessory identifiers.

10. 2. The print data generating device according to claim 1, further comprising an automatic accessory data generating unit that acquires device information in a predetermined format representing the specifications of the processing device from the processing device via a network, and generates the accessory data based on the device information.

11. 2. The print data generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a rasterization processing unit that performs a rasterization process on the print data generated by the total imposition processing unit.

12. The printing data generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising an accessory data correction unit for allowing an operator to make corrections to an accessory image contained in the accessory data stored in the accessory data storage unit.

13. A print data generating device that generates print data for a printing device to print on a printing paper, A display device; a storage device for storing accessory data in which accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, is associated with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates the mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after the printing process by the printing device; Processor and Equipped with The processor, presenting a plurality of processing types on the display device and accepting a selection of the processing type by an operator; Accepting an imposition mode designation by an operator, which designates an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; presenting, on the display device, one or more accessory identifiers that identify one or more pieces of accessory configuration information associated with the accepted processing type, with reference to accessory data stored in the storage device, and accepting a selection of an accessory identifier by an operator; generating imposition data with accessories by adding an accessory image based on the accessory configuration information specified by the received accessory identifier to the imposition data representing the received imposition mode; A print data generating device, comprising: a print data generating unit that generates the print data by imposing all pages included in input data based on the accessory-added imposition data.

14. A print data generating method for generating print data by a print device for printing on a print sheet, comprising: The print data generating device includes: A display unit; an accessory data storage unit that stores accessory data that associates accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside a printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates a mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after a printing process by the printing device; Equipped with The print data generating method includes: a processing type selection step of presenting a plurality of processing types on the display unit and accepting selection of a processing type by an operator; an imposition designation step of accepting designation by an operator of an imposition mode representing an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; an accessory selection step of displaying on the display unit one or more accessory identifiers that identify one or more accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted in the processing type selection step, by referring to the accessory data held in the accessory data holding unit, and accepting selection of the accessory identifier by the operator; an accessory-attached imposition data generating step of generating accessory-attached imposition data by adding an accessory image based on accessory configuration information specified by the accessory identifier received in the accessory selection step to the imposition data representing the imposition aspect received in the imposition designation step; an overall imposition processing step for generating the print data by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data; A print data generating method comprising:

15. A print data generation program for generating print data for a printing device to print on a printing sheet, a display unit; and an accessory data storage unit that stores accessory data that associates accessory configuration information, which is information necessary for printing an accessory image that is to be placed outside the printing area of ​​an actual image based on input data on a printing paper, with an accessory identifier for identifying the accessory configuration information and a processing type that indicates a mode of a series of processing processes to be performed after a printing process by the printing device; a processing type selection step of presenting a plurality of processing types on the display unit and accepting selection of a processing type by an operator; an imposition designation step of accepting designation by an operator of an imposition mode representing an arrangement of one or more pages on a printing sheet; an accessory selection step of displaying on the display unit one or more accessory identifiers that identify one or more accessory configuration information associated with the processing type accepted in the processing type selection step, by referring to the accessory data held in the accessory data holding unit, and accepting selection of the accessory identifier by the operator; an accessory-attached imposition data generating step of generating accessory-attached imposition data by adding an accessory image based on accessory configuration information specified by the accessory identifier received in the accessory selection step to the imposition data representing the imposition aspect received in the imposition designation step; an overall imposition processing step for generating the print data by imposing all pages included in the input data based on the accessory-added imposition data; A print data generating program that causes a user to execute the above steps.

Images