Information processing apparatus, image forming method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus, an image forming method, and a program allowing a user to freely select a desired method from a plurality of methods for representing metallic feel.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus comprises: a storage unit that stores a plurality of metallic profiles; an acquisition unit that acquires input image data; a first extraction unit that extracts one or more candidates for a metallic profile from the storage unit according to the input image data acquired by the acquisition unit; a display control unit that displays, on a display, the candidates for a metallic profile extracted by the first extraction unit; a selection unit that, according to an operation input to an input unit, selects a metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more candidates for a metallic profile extracted by the first extraction unit; and a generation unit that performs color conversion on the input image data with the metallic profile selected by the selection unit to generate output image data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an image forming method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] As a printing technique, a technique for generating image data using a metallic expression is known. Examples of methods for performing a metallic expression in printing include the following methods.

[0003] (1) Use of metallic foil in post-processing after printing with color materials such as process colors (2) Use of color materials such as toner or ink with metallic colors such as silver or gold in addition to process colors (3) A method of printing on metallic paper using a white pre-printing color material and other process color materials.

[0004] For example, the above method (3) can reproduce a metallic look at a lower cost than method (1). The cost also varies greatly depending on the number of lots, post-processing other than gold leaf, and the area of ​​the image where you want to express the metallic look. However, existing technologies are limited to one method of expressing a metallic look, such as using metal leaf to reproduce a metallic color sample or editing silver or gold colors.

[0005] In addition, by printing a natural image in process colors with metallic color materials such as silver or gold using the method (2) above, or by printing a natural image on metallic paper using the method (3), it is possible to express a natural image that includes a metallic feel. However, the existing technology is limited to editing only single-color metallic images.

[0006] As a technique for expressing such a metallic feel, a technique has been disclosed in which color information and layered structure are presented and edited while checking the finished product on a preview screen to check the visual effect of overlapping colors (for example, Patent Document 1). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, the technique described in Patent Document 1 has a problem in that the only method for expressing a metallic look is to use a color material of a metallic color.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and has an object to provide an information processing device, an image forming method, and a program that enable free selection from a plurality of methods for expressing a metallic effect. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention provides a color image processing apparatus comprising: a storage unit that stores a plurality of metallic profiles; an acquisition unit that acquires input image data; a first extraction unit that extracts one or more candidates for the metallic profile from the storage unit in accordance with the input image data acquired by the acquisition unit; a display control unit that causes a display device to display the candidates for the metallic profile extracted by the first extraction unit; a selection unit that selects the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more candidates for the metallic profile extracted by the first extraction unit in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; and a generation unit that performs color conversion on the input image data using the metallic profile selected by the selection unit to generate output image data. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to freely select from a plurality of methods for expressing a metallic look. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a layered structure when an image formed with a white process profile is printed on a metallic substrate. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of a printed matter when only process colors are printed on a metallic substrate. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of a printed matter when a metallic substrate is printed with white first and then with process colors. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a layered structure when a metallic color is pre-printed onto a non-metallic substrate using an image configured with a metallic process profile. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a layered structure when a metallic color is printed on a non-metallic substrate by pre-printing and post-printing for an image configured with a metallic process profile. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a layered structure when a metallic color is printed on a non-metallic substrate by post-printing using an image configured with a metallic process profile. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block configuration of a processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block configuration of a candidate extraction unit in the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of profile information related to a metallic profile stored in the storage unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing price information of profile A. As shown in FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing price information of profile C. As shown in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing price information of profile E. As shown in FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operations of the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a profile candidate extraction process performed by the profile extraction unit of the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation of excluding those corresponding to post-printing and metal foil from the metallic process profile when a predetermined condition is not satisfied for a single-color object in a metallic area. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a price extraction process performed by the price extraction unit of the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a profile candidate display screen displayed by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a channel configuration when an input image has a white process profile and an output image has a metallic process profile. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a channel configuration when an input image has a metallic process profile and an output image has a white process profile. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a color conversion dictionary stored in a storage unit of an information processing device according to the first modification. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a profile candidate display screen displayed by an information processing device according to the first modification. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block configuration of a candidate extraction unit in a processing unit of an information processing device according to Modification 2. In FIG. [Figure 28]FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process of narrowing down profile candidates by a candidate extraction unit of a processing unit of an information processing device according to Modification 2. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining the positional deviation when metal foil is post-printed. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining a metallic process profile that prevents misregistration when post-printing a metal foil in an information processing device according to the third modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an information processing device, an image forming method, and a program according to the present invention will be described in detail. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and the components in the following embodiments include those that a person skilled in the art can easily conceive, those that are substantially the same, and those that are within the scope of what is called equivalent. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of the components can be made without departing from the spirit of the following embodiments.

[0013] (Overall configuration of image forming system) 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the overall configuration of an image forming system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0014] 1 is a system that prints out image data that has been profile-converted by an information processing device 10. The image forming system 1 includes the information processing device 10 and an image forming device 20, as shown in FIG.

[0015] The information processing device 10 is an information processing device that converts input image data into a metallic profile, which is a profile for expressing a metallic feel selected by a user, to generate output image data. The information processing device 10 may be, for example, a normal PC (Personal Computer) or a DFE (Digital Front End). The information processing device 10 transmits output image data to the image forming device 20 via a network. Note that the information processing device 10 may be owned by a user and transmit the output image data to the image forming device 20 of a printing company or the like for submission via a website, a cloud service, or email.

[0016] The image forming apparatus 20 is an image forming apparatus such as a commercial printing machine that forms (prints) an image on a print medium based on output image data generated by the information processing apparatus 10.

[0017] (Main structure of image forming apparatus) 2 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to which the main structure of an image forming apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 20 includes a paper feed tray 300, a conveying roller 301, an intermediate transfer belt 302, a photosensitive drum 303, a transfer roller 304, a fixing roller 305, an in-line sensor 306, and a reverse path 307.

[0019] The paper feed tray 300 is a tray that stores print media such as paper to be fed.

[0020] The transport rollers 301 are a pair of rollers that transport the print medium fed from the paper feed tray 300 along a transport path to the transfer roller 304 .

[0021] The intermediate transfer belt 302 is an endless belt on which intermediate transfer images are formed by the photoconductor drums 303C, 303M, 303Y, 303K, and 303Si. The intermediate transfer belt 302 rotates, for example, clockwise when viewed from the paper surface of FIG. 2, and toner images of each color are formed on the photoconductor drums 303Si, 303K, 303C, 303M, and 303Y in this order.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, the photoconductor drums 303 include photoconductor drums 303C, 303M, 303Y, 303K, and 303Si arranged along the intermediate transfer belt 302, and have a configuration called a tandem type.

[0023] The photoconductor drum 303C is a photoconductor drum that forms a toner image of a cyan color plate on the intermediate transfer belt 302. The photoconductor drum 303M is a photoconductor drum that forms a toner image of a magenta color plate on the intermediate transfer belt 302. The photoconductor drum 303Y is a photoconductor drum that forms a toner image of a yellow color plate on the intermediate transfer belt 302. The photoconductor drum 303K is a photoconductor drum that forms a toner image of a black color plate on the intermediate transfer belt 302. The photoconductor drum 303Si is a photoconductor drum that forms a toner image of a metallic color plate, such as silver or gold, on the intermediate transfer belt 302. In order to form an intermediate transfer image on the intermediate transfer belt 302, the photoconductor drums 303Si, 303K, 303C, 303M, and 303Y are arranged in this order from the upstream in the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt 302. As a result, a toner image of each color is formed on the surface of intermediate transfer belt 302, resulting in a full-color image being formed as an intermediate transfer image. Of the photoconductor drums of photoconductor drum 303, photoconductor drum 303Si is disposed on the upstream side, but this is not limited thereto, and it may be disposed on the downstream side, or may be disposed both on the upstream side and the downstream side.

[0024] The transfer roller 304 is a roller that transfers the intermediate transfer image (full-color image) formed on the intermediate transfer belt 302 onto the print medium transported by the transport roller 301. By the function of this transfer roller 304, a full-color image is formed (printed) on the print medium.

[0025] The fixing roller 305 is a roller for fixing a full-color image onto the print medium on which the image has been formed.

[0026] In-line sensor 306 is a reading device that reads an image formed on a print medium by fixing roller 305 and obtains read image data. As shown in Fig. 2, in-line sensor 306 includes in-line sensor 306a that reads an image on the front side of the print medium and in-line sensor 306b that reads an image on the back side. Note that in-line sensor 306 does not necessarily have to include in-line sensor 306a and in-line sensor 306b, and may include only in-line sensor 306a.

[0027] The reversing path 307 is a mechanism for, when performing double-sided printing on a print medium, forming an image on the front side of the print medium, reversing the print medium, and transporting it again to the transfer roller 304. Then, the transfer roller 304 forms an image on the side of the print medium on which no image has been formed.

[0028] (Hardware configuration of information processing device) 3 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment, with reference to which the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing device 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 701, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 702, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 703, an auxiliary storage device 705, a media drive 707, a display 708, a network I / F 709, a keyboard 711 (an example of an input unit), a mouse 712 (an example of an input unit), and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) drive 714.

[0030] The CPU 701 is a computing device that controls the overall operation of the information processing device 10. The ROM 702 is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs for the information processing device 10. The RAM 703 is a volatile storage device that is used as a work area for the CPU 701.

[0031] The auxiliary storage device 705 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various data, programs, and the like.

[0032] The media drive 707 is a device that controls reading and writing of data from and to a recording medium 706 such as a flash memory under the control of the CPU 701 .

[0033] The display 708 is a display device configured with liquid crystal or organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) or the like, which displays various information such as a cursor, a menu, a window, characters, or an image.

[0034] The network I / F 709 is an interface for data communication with an external device such as the image forming apparatus 20 via a network. The network I / F 709 is, for example, a network interface card (NIC) that supports Ethernet (registered trademark) and is capable of wired or wireless communication conforming to TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) / IP (Internet Protocol) or the like.

[0035] The keyboard 711 is an input device for selecting letters, numbers, and various instructions, moving the cursor, etc. The mouse 712 is an input device for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, moving the cursor, etc.

[0036] The DVD drive 714 is a device that controls reading and writing of data from and to a DVD 713 such as a DVD-ROM or a Digital Versatile Disk Recordable (DVD-R) as an example of a removable storage medium.

[0037] The above-mentioned CPU 701, ROM 702, RAM 703, auxiliary storage device 705, media drive 707, display 708, network I / F 709, keyboard 711, mouse 712 and DVD drive 714 are communicatively connected to each other via a bus 710 such as an address bus and a data bus.

[0038] Note that the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 3 is an example, and does not need to include all the components shown in Fig. 3, or may include other components. Also, the information processing device 10 is not limited to being configured as a single information processing device as shown in Fig. 3, and may be configured as multiple information processing devices.

[0039] (Hardware configuration of image forming device) 4 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0040] 4, the image forming apparatus 20 includes a CPU 801, a ROM 802, a RAM 803, a HDD 804, an I / F 805, an image forming unit 806, and a reading unit 807. The CPU 801, the ROM 802, the RAM 803, the HDD 804, the I / F 805, the image forming unit 806, and the reading unit 807 are connected to each other via a bus 810 such as an address bus and a data bus so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0041] The CPU 801 is a calculation device that reads out programs and data from a storage device such as a ROM 802 or a HDD 804 onto a RAM 803 and executes the programs, thereby controlling the entire image forming apparatus 20 .

[0042] The ROM 802 is a non-volatile storage device that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off. The ROM 802 stores programs and data such as a basic input / output system (BIOS) that is executed when the image forming apparatus 20 is started up.

[0043] The RAM 803 is a volatile storage device that temporarily stores programs and data.

[0044] The HDD 804 is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs and data. The programs stored in the HDD 804 include an OS that controls the entire image forming apparatus 20, and application software that provides various functions by being executed on the OS. The image forming apparatus 20 may be equipped with an SSD instead of the HDD 804.

[0045] The I / F 805 is an interface for data communication with the information processing device 10 etc. via a network. The I / F 805 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) etc. that supports Ethernet and is capable of wired communication or wireless communication compliant with TCP / IP etc.

[0046] The image forming unit 806 is a mechanism for forming an image based on output image data received from the information processing device 10 via the I / F 805. The image forming unit 806 corresponds to the intermediate transfer belt 302, the photosensitive drum 303, the transfer roller 304, and the fixing roller 305 shown in FIG.

[0047] The reading unit 807 is a mechanism for reading an image formed on a print medium and generating read image data. The reading unit 807 corresponds to the in-line sensor 306 shown in FIG.

[0048] It should be noted that the hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 20 shown in FIG. 4 is merely an example, and it is not necessary for the image forming apparatus 20 to include all of the components shown in FIG. 4, or it may include other components.

[0049] (About metallic expressions) The metallic expressions assumed in this embodiment are divided into three types: expressions using metal foil, expressions using metallic color materials (other than metal foil), and expressions using metallic base materials. Below, these metallic expressions are explained from the viewpoints of four characteristics: metallic feeling, area constraints, number of colors constraints, and natural image expression with a metallic feeling.

[0050] <Metal foil expression> First, the representation using metal foil will be described.

[0051] -Metallic feel: Has a strong metallic feel on any substrate.

[0052] The constraints on area, number of colors, and the expression of natural images with a metallic feel vary depending on whether the metal foil is pre-printed or post-printed.

[0053] Area restrictions (first printing): None. -Limitation on number of colors (pre-printing): It is possible to adjust the color by printing process color materials on the metal foil. However, if the amount of color material is too large, the metallic feel will be weakened. - Natural image expression with a metallic feel (pre-printing): This is possible when printing process color pigments on metal foil.

[0054] Area constraints (post-printing): thin lines (e.g. less than 0.5 mm) or large areas (e.g. 100 cm 2 ] or more). Larger areas will be more expensive. Limited number of colors (post-printing): There are many different colors on the market, but it depends on the color of the metal foil. -Reproduction of metallic natural images (post-printing): This is not possible as the colorant layer is blocked.

[0055] <Expression using metallic color materials (other than metal foil)> Next, expression using metallic color materials (other than metal foil) will be described.

[0056] Metallic look: The metallic look is less noticeable on rough substrates. Area restrictions: None.

[0057] The limitations on the number of colors and the expression of natural images with a metallic feel vary depending on whether the metallic color material (other than metal foil) is pre-printed or post-printed.

[0058] -Limits on number of colors (first printing): By post-printing process color materials on metallic color materials, it is possible to mix colors. However, if there is too much color material, the metallic feel will be weakened. Metallic natural image expression (pre-printing): Suitable for mixing process color pigments in post-printing.

[0059] · Restrictions on the number of colors (post-printing): By pre-printing process color materials on metallic color materials, it is possible to mix colors. However, colors with high saturation or low brightness, such as pre-printing, are not suitable. Metallic natural image expression (post-print): Not suitable.

[0060] <Expression using metallic substrates> Next, the expression using a metallic base material will be described.

[0061] Metallic feel: Strong. Area restrictions: None. -Limits on number of colors: It is possible to mix colors by printing process color pigments. However, if there is a large amount of pigment, the metallic effect will be weak. -Reproduction of natural images with a metallic feel: This is possible by printing color materials.

[0062] (Metallic profile) In the following, a profile for color conversion to express a metallic feel will be referred to as a metallic profile. A metallic profile is created on the assumption that it will be printed on a base material (printing medium) such as paper or cloth. In addition, metallic profiles are classified into two types: a white process profile and a metallic process profile. An overview of the two types of metallic profiles will be given below.

[0063] Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining a layered structure when an image composed of a white process profile is printed on a metallic substrate. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining the appearance of a printed matter when only process colors are printed on a metallic substrate. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining the appearance of a printed matter when white is printed first on a metallic substrate and then process colors are printed. The white process profile will be explained with reference to Figs. 5 to 7.

[0064] The white process profile is a profile that assumes printing an image on a metallic substrate. The channels of image data based on the white process profile consist of process colors (CMYK or RGB) and white. In the following description, the process colors are assumed to be CMYK. Note that in addition to the process colors, one or more spot colors may be added to the channels of the white process profile.

[0065] 5 illustrates the layered structure of each color material when printing an image based on a white process profile in which a white color material is printed first onto a metallic substrate MB. Such a white process profile converts colors so as to express a metallic feel in areas where there is no white color information, i.e., areas where the metallic substrate MB is exposed during printing without being blocked.

[0066] Here, FIG. 6(b) shows the appearance of a printed matter when a metallic substrate MB is printed using a process color coloring material as shown in FIG. 6(a). As shown in FIG. 6(b), in the star-shaped region of the metallic substrate MB, there is no white information and the metallic substrate MB is not shielded, so it is possible to produce a metallic expression colored to give a metallic feel. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7(a), FIG. 7(b) shows the appearance of a printed matter when a process color coloring material is printed on the metallic substrate MB after a white coloring material is pre-printed. As shown in FIG. 7(b), in the star-shaped region of the metallic substrate MB, the white coloring material is pre-printed by applying white information to shield the metallic substrate MB, so that the printed matter is printed in a normal color without a metallic feel.

[0067] Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating a layer structure when a metallic color is printed on a non-metallic substrate by pre-printing for an image configured with a metallic process profile. Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a layer structure when a metallic color is printed on a non-metallic substrate by pre-printing and post-printing for an image configured with a metallic process profile. Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating a layer structure when a metallic color is printed on a non-metallic substrate by post-printing for an image configured with a metallic process profile.

[0068] A metallic process profile is a profile that assumes printing an image on a non-metallic substrate. The channels of image data based on a metallic process profile consist of process colors (CMYK or RGB) and metallic colors (colors based on metallic ink, toner, or metal foil). There may be multiple types of metallic colors. In addition to the process colors, one or more spot colors may be added to the channels of the metallic process profile. Also, normal colors without a metallic feel are based on the color information of the process colors.

[0069] In this embodiment, the metallic process profile is divided into three types, metallic process profiles a to c, according to the type of laminate structure of the metallic color and the process color. These three types of metallic process profiles will be described below.

[0070] <About Metallic Process Profile a> Figure 8 shows the layered structure of each color material when printing an image based on metallic process profile a (first metallic process profile), which pre-prints metallic color materials, on non-metallic substrate NMB. As shown in Figure 8, metallic process profile a has a pre-printed layer (channel) of metallic color, on which a layer (channel) of process color is placed. It also supports metal foil stamping with pre-printing. Metallic process profile a is suitable for natural image expression due to its structure in which metallic color is pre-printed.

[0071] <About Metallic Process Profile b> FIG. 9 shows the layered structure of each coloring material when printing an image based on metallic process profile b (second metallic process profile) in which metallic coloring materials are pre-printed and post-printed on a non-metallic substrate NMB. As shown in FIG. 9, in metallic process profile b, a process color layer (channel) is disposed on a metallic color pre-printed layer (channel), and further a metallic color post-printed layer (channel) is disposed. Metallic process profile b is a profile that assumes an application in which, for example, a metallic coloring material other than metal foil is pre-printed and then a metal foil is post-printed. Note that there may be two or more metallic color layers for post-printing.

[0072] <About Metallic Process Profile c> Fig. 10 shows the layered structure of each color material when printing an image based on metallic process profile c (third metallic process profile) in which a metallic color color material is post-printed on a non-metallic substrate NMB. As shown in Fig. 10, in metallic process profile c, a metallic color post-printed layer is disposed on top of a process color layer. Note that there may be two or more post-printed metallic color layers. Metallic process profile c is suitable for natural image expression when a metallic color material is used in the post-printed layer.

[0073] (About color conversion by profile) Color conversion by a profile refers to a color signal conversion technology using an ICC (International Color Consortium) profile, which is a standard color management mechanism. The standard color management mechanism is required for high-precision color management in various devices that input and output color images, such as monitors, scanners, digital cameras, printers, and printing machines. The ICC profile functions as a standard color management system. The profile format and conversion method are determined by an organization called ICC. By linking the profile of the input / output device provided by each manufacturer to the color management engine installed in the OS (Operating System) or application, appropriate color management can be performed. The type of device color space is defined in the ICC profile. Generally, the device color space of the ICC profile for image output of a monitor and the ICC profile for image input of a scanner is defined in RGB, and the device color space of the ICC profile for output of a printed image is defined in CMYK. In this embodiment, the metallic process profile defines the device color space by the number of colors including the metallic color and the process color.

[0074] (Configuration and operation of functional blocks of information processing device) FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of functional blocks of an information processing device according to an embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of functional blocks of a processing unit of an information processing device according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of functional blocks of a candidate extraction unit of a processing unit of an information processing device according to an embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of profile information on a metallic profile stored in a storage unit of an information processing device according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing price information of a profile A. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing price information of a profile C. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing price information of a profile D. The configuration and operation of the functional blocks of the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 17.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 11, the information processing device 10 includes a processing unit 100, a storage unit 110, an input unit 120, and a display unit .

[0076] The processing unit 100 is a functional unit that extracts metallic profile candidates and prices from the storage unit 110, displays them on the display unit 130, and generates output image data by color converting input image data using the metallic profile selected by the user. As shown in FIG. 12, the processing unit 100 has an input image acquisition unit 101 (acquisition unit), a candidate extraction unit 102, a profile selection unit 103 (selection unit), an output image generation unit 104 (generation unit), and a display control unit 105.

[0077] The input image acquisition unit 101 is a functional unit that acquires input image data including an expression of a metallic feel from the outside via the network I / F 709 or from the storage unit 110. The input image data includes the configuration of the channel being used, or has a metallic profile embedded therein. If the metallic profile is not embedded in the input image data, a metallic profile having the same or similar channel configuration among the metallic profiles stored in the storage unit 110 may be embedded instead. The input image acquisition unit 101 outputs the acquired input image data to the candidate extraction unit 102. The input image acquisition unit 101 is realized, for example, by the CPU 701 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0078] The candidate extraction unit 102 is a functional unit that extracts candidates for metallic profiles suitable for the input image data acquired by the input image acquisition unit 101 from the storage unit 110. The candidate extraction unit 102 is realized, for example, by the CPU 701 shown in Fig. 3 executing a program. As shown in Fig. 13, the candidate extraction unit 102 has a profile extraction unit 1021 (first extraction unit) and a price extraction unit 1022 (second extraction unit).

[0079] The profile extraction unit 1021 is a functional unit that extracts usable metallic profile candidates from the storage unit 110 in accordance with the channel configuration of the input image data acquired by the input image acquisition unit 101. The profile extraction unit 1021 outputs the input image data and the extracted metallic profile candidates to the price extraction unit 1022 and the display control unit 105.

[0080] The price extraction unit 1022 is a functional unit that extracts, from the storage unit 110, price information about the price incurred when each of the metallic profile candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 is applied to input image data and printed. The price extraction unit 1022 outputs the extracted price information to the display control unit 105. The price extraction unit 1022 also outputs the input image data and the metallic profile candidates received from the profile extraction unit 1021 to the profile selection unit 103.

[0081] The profile selection unit 103 is a functional unit that selects a metallic profile for profile conversion of input image data from among candidates for metallic profiles extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021, in response to a user's operation input received by the input unit 120. The profile selection unit 103 outputs the input image data and the selected metallic profile to the output image generation unit 104. The profile selection unit 103 is realized, for example, by the CPU 701 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0082] The output image generating unit 104 is a functional unit that receives input image data and a metallic profile from the profile selecting unit 103, and performs color conversion on the input image data using the metallic profile to generate output image data. The output image generating unit 104 is realized, for example, by the CPU 701 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0083] The display control unit 105 is a functional unit that displays and presents candidates for metallic profiles extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 on the display unit 130, and displays price information extracted by the price extraction unit 1022 on the display unit 130. In this way, the display control unit 105 causes the display unit 130 to display candidates for metallic profiles, thereby prompting the user to select a metallic profile. The display control unit 105 is realized, for example, by the CPU 701 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0084] The storage unit 110 is a functional unit that stores a plurality of metallic profiles and price information corresponding to each metallic profile. The storage unit 110 also stores profile information as shown in Fig. 14, which indicates each attribute of the plurality of stored metallic profiles. The storage unit 110 is realized by the auxiliary storage device 705 shown in Fig. 3.

[0085] The profile information is information that associates the profile name, profile type, first printing: color, first printing: color material, second printing 1: color, second printing 1: color material, second printing 2: color, second printing 2: color material, second printing 3: color, second printing 3: color material, and printing paper, as shown in FIG. 14, for example. The profile name indicates the name of the metallic profile. The profile type indicates the type of metallic profile, that is, whether it is a white process profile or a metallic process profile. In the case of a metallic process profile, it indicates whether it is one of metallic process profile a, metallic process profile b, and metallic process profile c. First printing: color indicates the metallic color used in the first printing. First printing: color material indicates the metallic color material used in the first printing. Second printing 1: color indicates the metallic color used in the first second printing. Second printing 1: color material indicates the metallic color used in the first second printing. Post-print 2·Color indicates the metallic color used for the second post-print. Post-print 2·Colorant indicates the metallic colorant used for the second post-print. Post-print 3·Color indicates the metallic color used for the third post-print. Post-print 3·Colorant indicates the metallic colorant used for the third post-print. Note that as shown in Figure 14, if there is a color or colorant that is not used, it is defined as NULL. Print paper indicates the print medium that is assumed when image data that has been color converted with the metallic profile is printed.

[0086] 14, when the profile name is "Profile B", the profile type is "White process profile", pre-printing: color is "white", pre-printing: colorant is "ink", post-printing 1: color, post-printing 1: colorant, post-printing 2: color, post-printing 2: colorant, post-printing 3: color and post-printing 3: colorant are "NULL", and the print paper is "Metallic Paper B". Note that in this embodiment, up to three metallic colors can be used for post-printing, but the number of colors can be increased or decreased as desired by the user.

[0087] FIG. 15 shows price information when printing is performed by applying a metallic profile named "Profile A", FIG. 16 shows price information when printing is performed by applying a metallic profile named "Profile C", and FIG. 17 shows price information when printing is performed by applying a metallic profile named "Profile E". As shown in FIG. 15 to FIG. 17, when printing is performed by applying each metallic profile, the price differs depending on the document size and the number of copies. Also, as shown in FIG. 17, in the case of "Profile E", which is based on the premise of printing using metal foil, the price also differs depending on the area of ​​the metallic region used in post-printing 1 and post-printing 2 (Metallic Region Area 1 and Metallic Region Area 2 shown in FIG. 17).

[0088] The input unit 120 is a functional unit that accepts operational inputs from a user. The input unit 120 is realized by the keyboard 711 and the mouse 712 shown in FIG.

[0089] The display unit 130 is a functional unit that displays various screens, etc. The display unit 130 is realized by the display 708 shown in FIG.

[0090] Note that the functional units of the information processing device 10 shown in Figures 11 to 13 are conceptually shown, and are not limited to such configurations. For example, the multiple functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the information processing device 10 shown in Figures 11 to 13 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the function of one functional unit in the information processing device 10 shown in Figures 11 to 13 may be divided into multiple functions and configured as multiple functional units.

[0091] Moreover, each of the functional units shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 is not limited to being included in the information processing device 10, but may be included in the image forming device 20 (an example of an information processing device).

[0092] (Operation of information processing device) FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the operation of the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the extraction process of the profile candidates by the profile extraction unit of the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram explaining the operation of excluding the metallic process profile corresponding to the post-printing metal foil from the metallic process profile when the predetermined condition is not satisfied for the single-color object in the metallic region. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the price extraction process by the price extraction unit of the processing unit of the information processing device according to the embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the profile candidate display screen displayed by the information processing device according to the embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the configuration of the channel when the input image is the white process profile and the output image is the metallic process profile. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the configuration of the channel when the input image is the metallic process profile and the output image is the white process profile. The flow of the operation of the information processing device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 24. It is assumed here that the input image includes a metallic natural image.

[0093] <Step S11> The input image acquisition unit 101 of the processing unit 100 of the information processing device 10 acquires input image data including an expression of a metallic feel from the outside via the network I / F 709 or from the storage unit 110. The input image acquisition unit 101 outputs the acquired input image data to the candidate extraction unit 102. Then, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0094] <Step S12> The candidate extraction unit 102 of the processing unit 100 of the information processing device 10 extracts candidates for the metallic profile suitable for the input image data acquired by the input image acquisition unit 101. Specifically, the candidate extraction unit 102 executes the processes of steps S121 to S127 shown in Fig. 19 and steps S128 to S134 shown in Fig. 21.

[0095] <<Step S121>> The profile extraction unit 1021 of the candidate extraction unit 102 determines whether a channel other than the process color is a metallic color or white among the channels configured in the input image data acquired by the input image acquisition unit 101. If it is a metallic color (step S121: metallic color), the process proceeds to step S122, and if it is white (step S121: white), the process proceeds to step S123.

[0096] <<Step S122>> The profile extraction unit 1021 sets an area in the input image data that has a metallic color channel as a metallic area, and then the process proceeds to step S124.

[0097] <<Step S123>> The profile extraction unit 1021 sets an area without a white channel in the input image data as a metallic area, and then the process proceeds to step S124.

[0098] <<Step S124>> Next, the profile extraction unit 1021 determines whether or not a single-color object is included in the set metallic region. If not included (step S124: No), the process proceeds to step S125. If included (step S124: Yes), the process proceeds to step S126.

[0099] <<Step S125>> The profile extraction unit 1021 extracts, as candidates, all the white process profiles and all the metallic process profiles a from among the multiple metallic profiles stored in the storage unit 110. Then, the profile extraction unit 1021 outputs the extracted metallic profiles to the price extraction unit 1022 and the display control unit 105. Then, the process proceeds to step S127.

[0100] <<Step S126>> The profile extraction unit 1021 extracts all of the metallic profiles as candidates from among the multiple metallic profiles stored in the storage unit 110. Then, the profile extraction unit 1021 outputs the extracted metallic profiles to the price extraction unit 1022 and the display control unit 105. Then, the process proceeds to step S127.

[0101] Here, as described above, when post-printing a metal foil, it is necessary to print thin lines (e.g., less than 0.5 mm) or large areas (e.g., 100 cm 2 ] or more). Furthermore, when metal foil is post-printed, it is difficult to express a natural image. For this reason, when the metallic region of the input image data acquired by the input image acquisition unit 101 satisfies the following conditions as shown in FIG. 20, the profile extraction unit 101 may exclude the metallic profile for post-printing metal foil from the extracted metallic profiles.

[0102] - The long side of the entire metallic area must be within the specified value A. - The short side of the entire metallic area must be within the specified value B. The minimum width of the metallic area must be equal to or greater than the specified value C. The area of ​​the metallic area must be less than the specified value D and the area ratio must be less than the specified value E.

[0103] The user may be able to specify any value as the specified values ​​A to E. In addition, it is not limited to the case where all of the above conditions are satisfied, and at least one of these may be satisfied.

[0104] <<Step S127>> The display control unit 105 causes the display unit 130 to display the metallic profile candidates received from the profile extraction unit 1021. Specifically, the display control unit 105 causes the display unit 130 to display a profile candidate display screen 2000 shown in FIG.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 22, the profile candidate display screen 2000 includes a preview display area 2001, a profile candidate display area 2002, a price display area 2003, and an enter button 2004.

[0106] The preview display area 2001 is an area for displaying a preview of the metallic profile candidate selected in the profile candidate display area 2002 when applied to input image data. This allows the user to check the print state before printing the input image data.

[0107] The profile candidate display area 2002 is an area that displays a list of metallic profile candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021. The user can select a desired candidate from the list of metallic profile candidates displayed in the profile candidate display area 2002 by performing an operation via the input unit 120. In the example shown in Fig. 22, metallic profiles with the profile names "Profile A", "Profile C", and "Profile D" are displayed as metallic profile candidates.

[0108] The price display area 2003 is an area that displays price information corresponding to the metallic profile candidate selected in the profile candidate display area 2002. The price display area 2003 has a combo box 2003a for selecting the number of copies.

[0109] The decision button 2004 is a button for deciding the candidate metallic profile selected in the profile candidate display area 2002 as the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data.

[0110] Note that, although the profile candidate display screen 2000 shown in FIG. 22 displays a preview and price information, this is not limited thereto, and at least one of the preview and price information may be displayed.

[0111] Then, the following steps S128 to S133 are executed.

[0112] <<Step S128>> The price extraction unit 1022 of the candidate extraction unit 102 sets the number of metallic profile candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 to the variable a, and sets the variable i to 1. Then, the process proceeds to step S129.

[0113] <<Step S129>> The price extraction unit 1022 judges whether or not the value of the variable a is equal to or greater than the value of the variable i. If the value of the variable a is equal to or greater than the value of the variable i, the price extraction unit 1022 executes the following steps S130 to S134.

[0114] <<Step S130>> The price extraction unit 1022 judges whether the type of the i-th metallic profile candidate among the metallic profile candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 is a metallic process profile and whether the metallic color material contains metal foil. If it is a metallic process profile and the metallic color material contains metal foil (step S130: Yes), the process proceeds to step S131, and otherwise (step S130: No), the process proceeds to step S133.

[0115] <<Step S131>> The price extraction unit 1022 calculates the area of ​​the metallic region including the metal foil of the input image data set by the profile extraction unit 1021. Then, the process proceeds to step S132.

[0116] <<Step S132>> The price extraction unit 1022 extracts a price according to the calculated area of ​​the metallic region including the metal foil from the price information corresponding to the i-th metallic profile candidate, and then proceeds to step S134.

[0117] <<Step S133>> The price extraction unit 1022 extracts all prices from the price information corresponding to the i-th metallic profile candidate, and then the process proceeds to step S134.

[0118] <<Step S134>> The price extraction unit 1022 increments the value of the variable i, and then the process returns to step S129.

[0119] After the above-mentioned processes of steps S128 to S134 are executed, the price extraction unit 1022 calculates a price according to the number of copies selected in the combo box 2003a of the price display area 2003 of the profile candidate display screen 2000 based on the extracted price. Then, the display control unit 105 causes the price calculated by the price extraction unit 1022 to be displayed in the price display area 2003. This allows the user to check the price when the metallic profile candidate selected in the profile candidate display area 2002 is used by viewing the display in the price display area 2003. Note that the price displayed in the price display area 2003 is based on the number of copies changed in the combo box 2003a, but is not limited to this. For example, the size, type, number of pages, delivery / submission deadline, PP processing, presence or absence or type of post-processing such as flap paper, etc. of the print medium may be changed, and a price corresponding to the change may be displayed.

[0120] When the processes in the above-mentioned steps S121 to S134 are completed, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0121] <Step S13> The user selects a desired metallic profile candidate from among the metallic profile candidates displayed in profile candidate display area 2002 of profile candidate display screen 2000, and presses enter button 2004. This causes profile selection unit 103 to select the metallic profile candidate selected in profile candidate display area 2002 as the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data. Then, profile selection unit 103 outputs the input image data and the selected metallic profile to output image generation unit 104. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

[0122] <Step S14> The output image generating unit 104 judges whether or not the metallic profile embedded in the input image data matches the metallic profile selected by the profile selecting unit 103. If they do not match (step S14: mismatch), the process proceeds to step S15, and if they do match (step S14: match), the operation of the information processing device 10 is terminated.

[0123] <Step S15> The output image generation unit 104 performs profile conversion on the metallic profile embedded in the input image data with the metallic profile selected by the profile selection unit 103, and performs color conversion on the input image data with the selected metallic profile to generate output image data.

[0124] Here, FIG. 23 shows an example in which the metallic profile of the input image data is a white process profile (first metallic profile), and the metallic profile of the output image data, i.e., the metallic profile selected by the profile selection unit 103, is a metallic process profile (second metallic profile). In this case, the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the region having the color information of the white channel shown in FIG. 23(b) in the input image data so as to have no color information of the metallic color channel as shown in FIG. 23(c). Also, the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the region not having the color information of the white channel shown in FIG. 23(b) in the input image data so as to have color information of the metallic color channel as shown in FIG. 23(c). As described above, the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the input image data using the metallic process profile, which is the metallic profile selected by the profile selection unit 103, to generate output image data expressing a metallic feeling as shown in FIG. 23(a). This makes it possible to express a metallic feel even when the type of printing medium or the color material used when printing the output image data is different.

[0125] FIG. 24 shows an example in which the metallic profile of the input image data is a metallic process profile (second metallic profile), and the metallic profile of the output image data, i.e., the metallic profile selected by the profile selection unit 103, is a white process profile (first metallic profile). In this case, the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the region having the metallic color channel color information shown in FIG. 24(b) in the input image data so as to have no white channel color information as shown in FIG. 24(c). Also, the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the region having no metallic color channel color information shown in FIG. 24(b) in the input image data so as to have white channel color information as shown in FIG. 24(c). As described above, the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the input image data using the white process profile, which is the metallic profile selected by the profile selection unit 103, to generate output image data expressing a metallic feel as shown in FIG. 24(a). This makes it possible to express a metallic feel even when the type of printing medium or the color material used when printing the output image data is different.

[0126] The output image data generated by the output image generating unit 104 is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20 via the network I / F 709. This completes the operation of the information processing apparatus 10.

[0127] As described above, in the information processing device 10 according to the present embodiment, the storage unit 110 stores a plurality of metallic profiles for expressing a metallic feel, the input image acquisition unit 101 acquires input image data, the profile extraction unit 1021 extracts one or more metallic profile candidates from the storage unit 110 according to the input image data acquired by the input image acquisition unit 101, the display control unit 105 displays the metallic profile candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 on the display 708, the profile selection unit 103 selects a metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more metallic profile candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 according to an operation input to the input unit (keyboard 711 or mouse 712), and the output image generation unit 104 performs color conversion on the input image data using the metallic profile selected by the profile selection unit 103 to generate output image data. This allows the user to freely select a desired method from a plurality of methods for expressing a metallic feel.

[0128] (Variation 1) The image forming system 1 according to this modification will be described, focusing on the differences from the image forming system 1 according to the above-described embodiment. In this modification, when the metallic effect is expressed in a single color and the object is specified by a spot color, the operation of selecting a metallic profile to be used in the output image based on the color of the reproduced color and the metallic accuracy level will be described. Note that the overall configuration of the image forming system 1 according to this modification, the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20, and the configuration of the functional blocks of the information processing device 10 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment.

[0129] Fig. 25 is a diagram illustrating a color conversion dictionary stored in a storage unit of an information processing device according to Modification 1. Fig. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a profile candidate display screen displayed by the information processing device according to Modification 1. The information processing device 10 according to this modification will be described with reference to Figs. 25 and 26.

[0130] The storage unit 110 of the information processing device 10 stores color conversion dictionaries as a plurality of metallic profiles and price information corresponding to each color conversion dictionary. Here, FIG. 25 shows an example of a color conversion dictionary. In this modification, each color information of the input image data is defined by, for example, a spot color in a PANTONE (registered trademark) color sample book. As shown in FIG. 25, the name of each PANTONE spot color is associated with a color value such as Lab value in a device-independent color space. Then, in each color conversion dictionary stored in the storage unit 110, as shown in FIG. 25, the color name of each spot color is associated with a color value (device value) in a device-dependent color space (CMYKW (white), CMYKSi (silver), etc.). Furthermore, in each color conversion dictionary, an accuracy level indicating the color reproduction characteristics (metallicity and color reproducibility) is registered for each spot color. Here, the accuracy level of the color reproduction characteristics indicates a color accuracy level (first level) indicating the accuracy of color reproducibility and a metallic accuracy level (second level) indicating the accuracy of metallicity.

[0131] In the example shown in FIG. 25, the color conversion dictionary specifies PANTONE spot colors, but this is not limited to this and may specify the DIC Color Guide (registered trademark) or metal foil colors arbitrarily set by the user.

[0132] The profile extraction unit 1021 of the information processing device 10 extracts, as candidates, a color conversion dictionary that is a plurality of metallic profiles stored in the storage unit 110. Then, the profile extraction unit 1021 outputs the extracted color conversion dictionary to the price extraction unit 1022 and the display control unit 105.

[0133] Then, the display control unit 105 of the information processing device 10 causes the display unit 130 to display the color conversion dictionary candidates received from the profile extraction unit 1021. Specifically, the display control unit 105 causes the display unit 130 to display a profile candidate display screen 2100 shown in FIG.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 26, the profile candidate display screen 2100 is a screen that displays the accuracy level indicating the color reproduction characteristics of a specific spot color of each candidate of the color conversion dictionary extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021. In the example shown in FIG. 26, the profile candidate display screen 2100 displays the accuracy levels of the color reproduction characteristics of each of the "color conversion dictionary A", "color conversion dictionary B" and "color conversion dictionary C" for "Pantone 000C", which is a specific spot color among the spot colors defined in the color conversion dictionary. For this "Pantone 000C", "color conversion dictionary A" is displayed as an example of a color conversion dictionary candidate with the highest metallicity and "color conversion dictionary C" with the highest color reproduction. Note that the profile candidate display screen 2100 shown in FIG. 26 displays the accuracy level of the reproduction characteristics of "Pantone 000C", which is a specific spot color, but it may be possible to sequentially switch to the display of the accuracy levels of the reproduction characteristics of other spot colors.

[0135] The profile candidate display screen 2100 also includes an enter button 2101. The enter button 2101 is a button for deciding the color conversion dictionary candidate selected on the profile candidate display screen 2100 as the color conversion dictionary to be applied to input image data.

[0136] Note that the profile candidate display screen 2100 may display at least one of a preview display and price information display, similarly to the profile candidate display screen 2000 shown in FIG.

[0137] The user selects a desired color conversion dictionary candidate from among the color conversion dictionary candidates displayed on the profile candidate display screen 2100, and presses the decision button 2101. This causes the profile selection unit 103 of the information processing device 10 to select the color conversion dictionary candidate selected on the profile candidate display screen 2100 as a color conversion dictionary to be applied to the input image data. The profile selection unit 103 then outputs the input image data and the selected color conversion dictionary to the output image generation unit 104.

[0138] The output image generating unit 104 of the information processing device 10 generates output image data by converting the color of the input image data using the color conversion dictionary selected by the profile selecting unit 103. This makes it possible to express a metallic feel even if the type of print medium or the color material used when printing the output image data is different. The output image data generated by the output image generating unit 104 is transmitted to the image forming device 20 via the network I / F 709.

[0139] As described above, in the information processing device 10 according to this modification, the metallic profile is a color conversion dictionary in which spot colors in a predetermined color sample book are associated with color values ​​in a device-independent color space, and the color conversion dictionary has registered therein an accuracy level indicating the accuracy of color reproducibility and an accuracy level indicating the accuracy of metallicity for each spot color, and the display control unit 105 displays the accuracy level indicating the accuracy of color reproducibility and the accuracy level indicating the accuracy of metallicity corresponding to the spot colors of the color conversion dictionary candidates extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 on the profile candidate display screen 2100. This allows the user to check the color reproducibility of the color conversion dictionary as the metallic profile presented as a candidate, and select the color conversion dictionary that is considered optimal.

[0140] (Variation 2) The image forming system 1 according to this modification will be described, focusing on the differences from the image forming system 1 according to the above-described embodiment. In this modification, an operation for further narrowing down candidates for the metallic profile extracted by the profile extraction unit 1021 will be described. Note that the overall configuration of the image forming system 1 according to this modification, and the hardware configurations of the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20 are similar to the configurations described in the above-described embodiment.

[0141] Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block configuration of a candidate extraction unit of a processing unit of an information processing device according to Modification 2. The configuration and operation of the function block of the candidate extraction unit 102a of the information processing device 10 according to this modification will be described with reference to Fig. 27.

[0142] 27, the candidate extraction unit 102a includes a profile extraction unit 1021 (first extraction unit), a price extraction unit 1022 (second extraction unit), and a profile narrowing down unit 1023. The operations of the profile extraction unit 1021 and the price extraction unit 1022 are as described in the above embodiment.

[0143] The profile narrowing down unit 1023 is a functional unit that further narrows down the metallic profile candidates extracted by the price extraction unit 1022. The profile narrowing down unit 1023 outputs the narrowed down metallic profile candidates to the price extraction unit 1022. The operation of the profile narrowing down unit 1023 will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0144] Note that the functional units of the candidate extraction unit 102a shown in Fig. 27 are conceptually shown, and are not limited to such a configuration. For example, the multiple functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the candidate extraction unit 102a shown in Fig. 27 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the function of one functional unit in the candidate extraction unit 102a shown in Fig. 27 may be divided into multiple functions and configured as multiple functional units.

[0145] Fig. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process of narrowing down profile candidates by a candidate extraction unit of a processing unit of an information processing device according to Modification 2. A flow of a process of narrowing down metallic profile candidates by the candidate extraction unit 102a of the information processing device 10 according to this modification will be described with reference to Fig. 28. Note that the operation shown in Fig. 28 is executed after the operation (step S126) of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 19 described above, in which the profile extraction unit 1021 determines that a single-color object is included in the metallic region and all metallic profiles are extracted as candidates from the storage unit 110.

[0146] <Step S1261> First, the profile narrowing unit 1023 determines whether the number of objects of a single color included in the metallic region exceeds the upper limit number of post-printing colors. If it does not exceed the upper limit (step S1261: No), the process proceeds to step S1262. If it does exceed the upper limit (step S1261: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1263.

[0147] <Step S1262> The profile narrowing unit 1023 sets the number of single-color objects to the variable a, and then the process proceeds to step S1265.

[0148] <Step S1263> The profile narrowing unit 1023 sets the upper limit number of post-printing colors to the variable a. Then, the process proceeds to step S1264.

[0149] <Step S1264> The profile narrowing unit 1023 excludes from the processing target objects having an area equal to or larger than (a+1) when the objects of a single color included in the metallic region are sorted in descending order of area, and then proceeds to step S1265.

[0150] <Step S1265> The profile narrowing unit 1023 sets the variable i to 1, and sets the number of post-printing colors to the variable b, and then proceeds to step S1266.

[0151] <Step S1266> The profile narrowing down unit 1023 judges whether the value of the variable i is equal to or less than the value of the variable a. If the value of the variable i is equal to or less than the value of the variable a, the profile narrowing down unit 1023 executes the processes of the following steps S1267 to S1272. On the other hand, if the value of the variable i exceeds the value of the variable a, the process proceeds to step S1273.

[0152] <Step S1267> The profile narrowing down unit 1023 sets the variable j to 1. Then, the process proceeds to step S1268.

[0153] <Step S1268> The profile narrowing down unit 1023 judges whether the value of the variable j is equal to or less than the value of the variable b. If the value of the variable j is equal to or less than the value of the variable b, the profile narrowing down unit 1023 executes the processes of the following steps S1269 to S1271. On the other hand, if the value of the variable j exceeds the value of the variable b, the process proceeds to step S1272.

[0154] <Step S1269> The profile narrowing unit 1023 determines whether the color difference between the i-th single-color object and the j-th later-printed color is within a predetermined threshold value. If it is within the threshold value (step S1269: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1270. If it exceeds the threshold value (step S1269: No), the process proceeds to step S1271.

[0155] <Step S1270> The profile narrowing unit 1023 adds the jth post-printing color to the i-th single-color object as a target for reproduction color, and then the process proceeds to step S1271.

[0156] <Step S1271> The profile narrowing down unit 1023 increments the value of the variable j, and then the process returns to step S1268.

[0157] <Step S1272> The profile narrowing down unit 1023 increments the value of the variable i, and then the process returns to step S1266.

[0158] <Step S1273> The profile narrowing unit 1023 excludes metallic profiles including post-print colors that have not been added as targets for reproduction colors from the metallic profile candidates extracted by the price extraction unit 1022.

[0159] After the operations in the above steps S1261 to S1273 are completed, the processes in step S127 and thereafter in FIG. 19 are executed.

[0160] As described above, according to the information processing device 10 of this modified example, the profile narrowing down unit 1023 can narrow down the metallic profiles including the post-printing color that has been added as a target for reproduction color, so that the user can select from candidate metallic profiles that can provide appropriate metallic expression.

[0161] (Variation 3) The image forming system 1 according to this modification will be described, focusing on the differences from the image forming system 1 according to the above-described embodiment. In this modification, an operation for preventing misalignment will be described. Note that the overall configuration of the image forming system 1 according to this modification, the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20, and the configuration of the functional blocks of the information processing device 10 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment.

[0162] Fig. 29 is a diagram for explaining misalignment when metal foil is post-printed. Fig. 30 is a diagram for explaining a metallic process profile for preventing misalignment when metal foil is post-printed in an information processing device according to Modification 3. With reference to Figs. 29 and 30, the misalignment that occurs when metal foil is post-printed and the metallic process profile for preventing this will be described.

[0163] When metal foil is post-printed as a metallic color material, misregistration may occur. Therefore, when a metal foil (metallic sky blue metal foil in the illustrated example) shown in FIG. 29(b) is post-printed on a process color printing in which the overlapping portion with the post-printed metal foil is cut out as shown in FIG. 29(a), misregistration may occur as shown in FIG. 29(c). Below, we will explain the metallic process profile to prevent this misregistration.

[0164] FIG. 30 shows a case where the same print shown in FIG. 30(a) is printed with three types of metallic profiles (FIGS. 30(b) to 30(d)).

[0165] Fig. 30(b) shows a case where the print is formed using a white process profile. Fig. 30(c) shows a case where the print is formed by pre-printing a metal foil using metallic process profile a or metallic process profile b. In these cases, since it is necessary to print only the cyan process color for forming the mixed metallic color on the triangular object, it is necessary to delete the color information corresponding to the object from the magenta process color.

[0166] On the other hand, Fig. 30(d) shows a case where the printed matter is formed by post-printing metal foil using metallic process profile b or metallic process profile c. In this case, since metal foil is post-printed on the triangular object, the part of the pre-printed magenta process color that corresponds to the object also contains color information of the magenta process color. This makes it possible to prevent the misalignment as shown in Fig. 29(c) above.

[0167] From the above characteristics of the metallic process profile, when the profile selection unit 103 selects a metallic process profile as shown in Fig. 30(d) as a metallic file for profile conversion for the metallic profile of the input image corresponding to Fig. 30(b) or Fig. 30(c), the output image generation unit 104 performs a process of giving color information of the process color to a portion corresponding to an object of the process color to be pre-printed. On the other hand, when the profile selection unit 103 selects a metallic profile as shown in Fig. 30(b) or Fig. 30(c) as a metallic profile for profile conversion for the metallic process profile of the input image corresponding to Fig. 30(d), the output image generation unit 104 performs a process of deleting color information corresponding to the object in the process colors not used for metallic color mixing.

[0168] As described above, according to the information processing device 10 of this modified example, it is possible to apply a metallic process profile that prevents misalignment.

[0169] Each function of the embodiment and each modified example described above can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Here, the term "processing circuit" includes a processor programmed to execute each function by software, such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, and devices such as ASIC, DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and conventional circuit modules designed to execute each function described above.

[0170] The programs executed by the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20 of the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example may be provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like. The programs executed by the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20 of the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example may be provided as a computer program product by being recorded in a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). The programs executed by the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20 of the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example may be provided by being stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and downloaded via the network. The programs executed by the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 20 of the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0171] In addition, the programs executed by the information processing device 10 and image forming device 20 in the above-mentioned embodiments and each modified example have a modular structure including each of the functional units described above, and in terms of actual hardware, the CPU (processor) reads the program from the ROM and executes it, thereby loading each of the functional units described above onto the main memory device, and each functional unit is generated on the main memory device.

[0172] The aspects of the present invention are as follows. <1> A storage unit that stores a plurality of metallic profiles; An acquisition unit for acquiring input image data; a first extraction unit that extracts one or more candidates for the metallic profile from the storage unit in response to the input image data acquired by the acquisition unit; a display control unit that displays, on a display device, the candidates for the metallic profile extracted by the first extraction unit; a selection unit that selects the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more metallic profile candidates extracted by the first extraction unit in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; a generating unit that performs color conversion on the input image data using the metallic profile selected by the selecting unit to generate output image data; The information processing device is provided with: <2> The display control unit causes the display device to display a preview of a case where the candidate is applied to the input image data. <1> The present invention relates to an information processing device. <3> the storage unit stores price information corresponding to each of the plurality of metallic profiles, a second extraction unit that extracts, from the storage unit, the price information corresponding to each of the candidates extracted by the first extraction unit; the display control unit causes the display device to display the price information extracted by the second extraction unit, the price information corresponding to the candidate displayed on the display device. <1> or <2> The present invention relates to an information processing device. <4> The metallic profile is a color conversion dictionary in which spot colors in a predetermined color sample book are associated with color values ​​in a device-independent color space. <1> ~ <3> 1 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <5> the color conversion dictionary registers, for each spot color, a first level indicating accuracy of metallicity and a second level indicating accuracy of color reproducibility; the display control unit causes the display device to display the first level and the second level corresponding to the spot color of the candidate of the color conversion dictionary extracted by the first extraction unit. <4> The present invention relates to an information processing device. <6> When the metallic profile of the input image data is a first metallic profile composed of a white channel and a process color channel, and a second metallic profile composed of a metallic color channel and a process color channel is selected by the selection unit, the generation unit performs color conversion on an area having color information of a white channel in the input image data so that the area does not have color information of the metallic color channel, and performs color conversion on an area not having color information of the white channel so that the area has color information of the metallic color channel. <1> ~ <3> 1 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <7> When the metallic profile of the input image data is a second metallic profile constituted by a metallic color channel and a process color channel, and the selection unit selects a first metallic profile constituted by a white channel and a process color channel, the generation unit performs color conversion on an area having color information of the metallic color channel in the input image data so that the area does not have color information of the white channel, and performs color conversion on an area not having color information of the metallic color channel so that the area has color information of the white channel. <1> ~ <3> 1 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <8> The generating unit converts the metallic profile of the input image data into the metallic profile selected by the selecting unit. <1> ~ <7> 1 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <9> The process file for the second metallic is a first metallic process profile consisting of a channel of a metallic color to be printed first and a channel of a process color to be printed thereafter; a second metallic process profile consisting of a channel of a metallic color to be printed first, a channel of a process color to be printed thereafter, and a channel of a metallic color to be printed later; a third metallic process profile consisting of a process color channel and a metallic color channel to be post-printed; The above-mentioned <6> or <7> The present invention relates to an information processing device. <10> At least one of the second metallic process profile and the third metallic process profile has one or more channels of a metallic color to be printed later. <9> The present invention relates to an information processing device. <11> The first extraction unit excludes a metallic profile for post-printing a metal foil as a metallic color from the extracted metallic profiles when the input image data acquired by the acquisition unit satisfies at least any one of conditions regarding a size, a length, and an area ratio of a metallic color area. <1> ~ <10> 1 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <12> An acquisition step of acquiring input image data; an extraction step of extracting one or more candidates for the metallic profile from a storage unit in which a plurality of metallic profiles are stored, according to the acquired input image data; a display control step of displaying the extracted candidates for the metallic profile on a display device; a selection step of selecting the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more extracted candidates of the metallic profile in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; a generating step of generating output image data by color converting the input image data using the selected metallic profile; The image forming method includes the steps of: <13> On the computer, An acquisition step of acquiring input image data; an extraction step of extracting one or more candidates for the metallic profile from a storage unit in which a plurality of metallic profiles are stored, according to the acquired input image data; a display control step of displaying the extracted candidates for the metallic profile on a display device; a selection step of selecting the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more extracted candidates of the metallic profile in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; a generating step of generating output image data by color converting the input image data using the selected metallic profile; This is a program for executing the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0173] 1. Image forming system 10. Information processing device 20 Image forming device 100 Processing section 101 Input image acquisition unit 102, 102a Candidate extraction section 103 Profile selection section 104 Output image generation unit 105 Display control unit 110 Storage section 120 Input section 130 Display section 300 Paper Tray 301 Transport roller 302 Intermediate transfer belt 303, 303C, 303K, 303M, 303Si, 303Y Photoconductor Drum 304 Transfer roller 305 Fuser roller 306, 306a, 306b Inline Sensors 307 Reverse Pass 701 CPU 702 ROM 703 RAM 705 Auxiliary storage 706 Recording Media 707 Media Drive 708 Display 709 Network Interface 710 Bus 711 Keyboard 712 Mouse 713 DVD 714 DVD drive 801 CPU 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 HDD 805 Interface 806 Image forming section 807 Reading unit 810 Bus 1021 Profile Extraction Unit 1022 Price Extraction Unit 1023 Profile Refinement Section 2000 Profile candidate display screen 2001 Preview display area 2002 Profile candidate display area 2003 Price display area 2003a Combo Box 2004 Decision button 2100 Profile candidate display screen 2101 Confirm button MB Metallic Substrate NMB Non-metallic substrate P Pink color material SL Metallic Color Material PSL Metallic Pink Color Material [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0174] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-083398 A

Claims

1. A storage unit that stores a plurality of metallic profiles; An acquisition unit for acquiring input image data; a first extraction unit that extracts one or more candidates for the metallic profile from the storage unit in response to the input image data acquired by the acquisition unit; a display control unit that displays, on a display device, the candidates for the metallic profile extracted by the first extraction unit; a selection unit that selects the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more metallic profile candidates extracted by the first extraction unit in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; a generating unit that performs color conversion on the input image data using the metallic profile selected by the selecting unit to generate output image data; An information processing device comprising:

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the display control unit causes the display device to display a preview of a case in which the candidate is applied to the input image data.

3. the storage unit stores price information corresponding to each of the plurality of metallic profiles, a second extraction unit that extracts, from the storage unit, the price information corresponding to each of the candidates extracted by the first extraction unit; The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the display control unit causes the display device to display the price information extracted by the second extraction unit, which corresponds to the candidate displayed on the display device.

4. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the metallic profile is a color conversion dictionary in which spot colors in a predetermined color sample book are associated with color values ​​in a device-independent color space.

5. the color conversion dictionary registers, for each spot color, a first level indicating accuracy of color reproducibility and a second level indicating accuracy of metallicity; The information processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the display control unit causes the display device to display the first level and the second level corresponding to the spot color of the candidate of the color conversion dictionary extracted by the first extraction unit.

6. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the metallic profile of the input image data is a first metallic profile composed of a white channel and a process color channel, and a second metallic profile composed of a metallic color channel and a process color channel is selected by the selection unit, the generation unit performs color conversion on an area in the input image data having color information of the white channel so that it does not have color information of the metallic color channel, and performs color conversion on an area not having color information of the white channel so that it has color information of the metallic color channel.

7. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the metallic profile of the input image data is a second metallic profile constituted by a metallic color channel and a process color channel, and a first metallic profile constituted by a white channel and a process color channel is selected by the selection unit, the generation unit performs color conversion on an area in the input image data having color information of the metallic color channel so that it does not have color information of the white channel, and performs color conversion on an area not having color information of the metallic color channel so that it has color information of the white channel.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the generating unit converts the metallic profile of the input image data into the metallic profile selected by the selecting unit.

9. The process file for the second metallic is as follows: a first metallic process profile consisting of a channel of a metallic color to be printed first and a channel of a process color to be printed thereafter; a second metallic process profile consisting of a channel for a metallic color to be printed first, a channel for a process color to be printed thereafter, and a channel for a metallic color to be printed later; a third metallic process profile consisting of a process color channel and a post-print metallic color channel; The information processing device according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising:

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein at least one of the second metallic process profile and the third metallic process profile has one or more channels for a metallic color to be post-printed.

11. 3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the first extraction unit excludes a metallic profile for post-printing a metal foil as a metallic color from the extracted metallic profiles when the input image data acquired by the acquisition unit satisfies at least any one of conditions regarding the size, length, and area ratio of the metallic color area.

12. An acquisition step of acquiring input image data; an extraction step of extracting one or more candidates for the metallic profile from a storage unit in which a plurality of metallic profiles are stored, according to the acquired input image data; a display control step of displaying the extracted candidates for the metallic profile on a display device; a selection step of selecting the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more extracted metallic profile candidates in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; a generating step of generating output image data by color converting the input image data using the selected metallic profile; The image forming method according to claim 1,

13. On the computer, An acquisition step of acquiring input image data; an extraction step of extracting one or more candidates for the metallic profile from a storage unit in which a plurality of metallic profiles are stored, according to the acquired input image data; a display control step of displaying the extracted candidates for the metallic profile on a display device; a selection step of selecting the metallic profile to be applied to the input image data from the one or more extracted metallic profile candidates in accordance with an operation input to an input unit; a generating step of generating output image data by color converting the input image data using the selected metallic profile; A program for executing.

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