Information processing system and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system that, when an image based on the same image data of a first image formed by one image forming apparatus is formed by another image forming apparatus, brings the hue of the image close to the hue of the first image, compared to a case where the other image forming apparatus uses first color adjustment data for the one image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes a processor, and when instructed to form an image based on the same image data of a first image formed by one image forming apparatus, the processor generates first color adjustment data for the other image forming apparatus on the basis of first read data obtained by reading the first image formed by the one image forming apparatus, and executes a mode for causing the other image forming apparatus to form an image on the basis of the image data and the first color adjustment data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to an information processing system and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] The image forming device described in Patent Document 1 is characterized by having a scanning means for scanning a printed material, a determination means for determining whether a certain area in the image data obtained by scanning is an area on the printed material printed in a single color of K or an area printed in a mixture of CMY, and a generation means for generating printing parameters based on the results determined by the determination means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-62512 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing system that, when an image based on the same image data as a first image formed by one image forming device is formed by another image forming device, brings the color of the image closer to the color of the first image compared to when first color adjustment data for the one image forming device is used. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An information processing system according to a first aspect includes a processor, and when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as a first image formed by one image forming device, the processor creates first color adjustment data for another image forming device based on first read data obtained by reading the first image formed by the one image forming device, and executes a mode in which the other image forming device forms an image based on the image data and the first color adjustment data.

[0006] An information processing system according to a second aspect is an information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the processor, in a mode different from the first mode, saves second read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming device and second color adjustment data used when the image was formed, and when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as the image related to the saved read data, if the read data is the first read data, executes the mode, and when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as the image related to the saved read data, if the read data is the second read data, causes the other image forming device to form an image based on the image data and the second color adjustment data.

[0007] An information processing system according to a third aspect is the information processing system according to the second aspect, wherein the processor executes the mode to store third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming device, and third color adjustment data obtained when the image is formed.

[0008] An information processing system according to a fourth aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect, in which the processor executes the mode to obtain third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming device, and outputs color difference information if the color difference between the first read data and the third read data is greater than or equal to a first threshold value.

[0009] An information processing system according to a fifth aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein when the processor receives an image search, it accesses a server that stores read data of images formed by multiple image forming devices, extracts candidate images, and displays them.

[0010] An information processing system according to a sixth aspect is the information processing system according to the fifth aspect, wherein the processor accesses a server on which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming devices is stored, displays a plurality of stored images, and accepts an image selected by a user as an image to be searched.

[0011] An information processing system according to a seventh aspect is the information processing system according to the fifth aspect, in which the processor accepts an image related to read data created by reading an original image as an image to be searched for, accesses a server on which read data of images formed by multiple image forming devices is stored, and extracts the candidate image by comparing the image to be searched for with the stored image.

[0012] An information processing system according to an eighth aspect is an information processing system according to the seventh aspect, wherein when the stored image does not match the image to be searched for and an instruction to form an image identical to the original image is received, the processor causes an image forming device to form an image based on the read data of the image to be searched for.

[0013] An information processing program according to a ninth aspect causes a computer to execute processing including, when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as a first image formed by one image forming device, creating first color adjustment data for another image forming device based on first read data obtained by reading the first image formed by the one image forming device, and instructing the other image forming device to execute a mode in which an image is formed based on the image data and the first color adjustment data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the first and ninth aspects, when an image based on the same image data as a first image formed by one image forming device is formed by another image forming device, the color of the image can be made closer to the color of the first image compared to when first color adjustment data for the one image forming device is used.

[0015] According to the second aspect, when another image forming device forms an image based on the same image data as an image already formed by another image forming device, the newly formed image can be formed based on the image data of the already formed image and the first color adjustment data.

[0016] According to the third aspect, compared to the case where only the second scanned data is saved, it is possible to increase the scope for selecting the color tone when forming an image by another image forming apparatus.

[0017] According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to prompt the user to check images formed by other image forming apparatuses.

[0018] According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to present the user with candidate images to be searched for.

[0019] According to the sixth aspect, the user can specify the search target without preparing an image.

[0020] According to the seventh aspect, it is possible to specify a search target based on an original image held by the user.

[0021] According to the eighth aspect, the original image can be formed as a new image. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the technique of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart from job acceptance to job completion in the information processing program according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a case where a job is backed up at the time of initial formation in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 5]10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a case where a user selects a job during re-formation in the information processing program according to the present embodiment, and an image is formed using the same image forming apparatus as the first time. [Figure 6] 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a case where a user selects a job during re-formation in the information processing program according to the embodiment, and an image is formed using an image forming apparatus different from that used for the initial image formation. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing details of an inspection step in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a case where a color check is performed by an inspection unit during reformation in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a case where data is backed up at the time of reformation in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing details of a search step in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a determination of reformation in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a case where a controller searches for a job during re-creation in the information processing program according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or equivalent components and parts in the various drawings.

[0024] <Configuration of the embodiment> (Image forming system) 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming system 10 according to an embodiment of the technique of the present disclosure. The image forming system 10 is a system that forms an image based on shared image data using an arbitrary image forming device. The image forming system 10 includes a backup server 12, a management server 14, an internet connection 40, an image forming device 20, and a controller 70.

[0025] The backup server 12 stores image data, color profiles, and other information necessary for image formation shared within the image forming system 10. The backup server 12 is an example of a server. The color profile is an example of first color adjustment data, second color adjustment data, and third color adjustment data. In this embodiment, the third color adjustment data is the color profile stored in the backup server 12. The second color adjustment data is the color profile of the third color adjustment data that is used when the image forming device 20B re-forms an image that was previously created by the image forming device 20A. The first color adjustment data is the color profile that is used when the image forming device 20B re-forms an image that was previously created by the image forming device 20A.

[0026] The management server 14 selects any one of the image forming devices that forms an image related to the image data.

[0027] The internet line 40 is a wired or wireless line that enables mutual communication between the components in the image forming system 10 .

[0028] ((Image forming device)) The image forming apparatus 20 is an apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium (not shown). As the image forming apparatus 20, for example, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium using toner is used. Note that the image forming apparatus 20 may also be an inkjet image forming apparatus, and various image forming apparatuses can be used. In an inkjet image forming apparatus, for example, an image is formed on the recording medium by ejecting ink droplets from an ejection unit (not shown) onto the recording medium.

[0029] The image forming apparatus 20 performs various processes, such as charging, exposure, development, transfer to a recording medium, and fixing. A plurality of image forming apparatuses 20 are arranged in the image forming system 10. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatuses 20 are identified as three image forming apparatuses 20A, 20B, and 20C.

[0030] (((Inspection Department))) As shown in Fig. 1, the image forming apparatus 20 further includes an inspection unit 30. The inspection unit 30 reads an image formed on a recording medium and inspects the quality of the image based on the read data. An inspection unit 30 is provided in each of the image forming apparatuses 20A, 20B, and 20C. The inspection by the inspection unit 30 will be described later.

[0031] ((controller)) 1, the controller 70 is connected to the backup server 12, the management server 14, and the image forming apparatus 20 via the Internet line 40. The controller 70 instructs the image forming apparatus 20 to form an image based on an instruction from the management server 14, and also obtains information stored in the backup server 12 and instructs the image forming apparatus 20 to re-form an image.

[0032] A plurality of controllers 70 are arranged in the image forming system 10. In this embodiment, the controllers 70 are identified into three controllers 70A, 70B, and 70C corresponding to the image forming apparatuses 20A, 20B, and 20C, respectively. Each of the controllers 70A, 70B, and 70C is independent of the others and issues commands only to the corresponding image forming apparatuses 20A, 20B, and 20C.

[0033] 2, the controller 70 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 72A, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 72B, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 72C, a storage 72D, an input / output unit 78, and a network interface (network I / F) 80. Each component is connected to each other via a bus 72E so as to be able to communicate with each other. The controller 70 is an example of an information processing system.

[0034] The CPU 72A is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls each component. That is, the CPU 72A reads programs from the ROM 72B or storage 72D and executes the programs using the RAM 72C as a work area. The CPU 72A is an example of a processor, and the control program executed by the CPU 72A is an example of an information processing program. The CPU 72A controls the above components and performs various arithmetic operations in accordance with the programs recorded in the ROM 72B or storage.

[0035] The ROM 72B stores various programs and various data. The RAM 72C temporarily stores programs or data as a working area. The storage 72D is configured with an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) and stores various programs including the operating system and various data.

[0036] The input / output unit 78 receives signals between the components of the image forming system 10 in order to fulfill the functions of the image forming system 10. Specifically, the input / output unit 78 performs input / output between the backup server 12, the management server 14, and the image forming device 20 based on instructions from a user (not shown).

[0037] The network I / F 80 is an interface for communicating with other devices such as databases and servers (not shown), and uses standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), FDDI, and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0038] (Summary of image forming systems) As a result of the above, the image forming system 10 uploads the image data and color profile (third color adjustment data) to the backup server 12 using one of the image forming devices 20A, 20B, or 20C selected from the management server 14 via the controller 70.

[0039] Next, details of image formation and re-formation by the image forming system 10 will be described. In the following description, the controller 70 will be described as being the controller 70B. The controller 70B is an example of another image forming apparatus.

[0040] [Flow from job acceptance to job completion] 3, in step S10, the CPU 72A of the controller 70B receives image data (document) relating to an image to be formed by the image forming apparatus 20B as a job. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S20.

[0041] [First image formation] In step S20, the CPU 72A determines whether the image to be formed is a re-formation of an image previously formed by any one of the image forming apparatuses 20. A detailed example of this determination will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0042] If the determination result is "NO" indicating negation, the CPU 72A determines that the image to be formed is a new image formation, and proceeds to step S24. Note that in this specification, forming a new image is referred to as first image formation.

[0043] On the other hand, if the determination result in step S20 is "YES" indicating affirmative, the CPU 72A determines that the image to be formed is a reformed image, and proceeds to step S22.

[0044] When the process proceeds to step S24, the CPU 72A instructs the image forming apparatus 20B to form an image, and then the CPU 72A proceeds to step S26.

[0045] [[[[Initial image backup]]] In step S26, the CPU 72A determines whether to save information related to image data relating to the formed image in the backup server 12. If the determination result is "NO", the CPU 72A does not instruct the backup server 12 to save the information, and proceeds to END, ending the job.

[0046] On the other hand, if the determination result of step S26 is "YES", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S28 and instructs the backup server 12 to save the information. When saving, the CPU 72A causes the inspection unit 30A to read an image previously formed on the image forming device 20B, and saves the read image B and a new color profile (third color adjustment data). Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to END. The read image B is an example of second read data.

[0047] Here, the sequence from steps S24, S26 and S28 to END will be described with reference to FIG.

[0048] After the user instructs the formation of an image, controller 70B instructs image forming apparatus 20B to form an image.

[0049] After the image forming device 20B forms an image on the recording medium, the inspection unit 30B reads the image and creates a read image B. Then, the image forming device 20B transmits the read image B read by the inspection unit 30B, a notification of the completion of formation, and other information to the controller 70B.

[0050] As described above, the controller 70B instructs the backup server 12 to save the information. Specifically, the controller 70B transmits, as backup data, the image data, settings of the image forming device 20B, resources which are parameters related to color adjustment and include a color profile, the formation date and time when the image was formed, the image B read by the inspection unit 30B, and other information to the backup server 12. The controller 70B also displays a completion message to the user.

[0051] In this manner, the first image formation by the image forming apparatus 20B and the storage of the formed image by the backup server 12 are performed.

[0052] [[Image Regeneration]] Next, the case where the CPU 72A proceeds to step S22 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0053] In step S22, the CPU 72A determines whether any one of the image forming apparatuses 20 is the same image forming apparatus that previously formed the image to be re-formed. In this embodiment, the controller 70B determines whether the image was formed by the image forming apparatus 20B itself. Note that the previous time includes the first time.

[0054] [[[In the case of the same device]] If the determination result is "YES", the CPU 72A determines that the image to be re-formed and the image previously formed were formed by the image forming apparatus 20B, which is the image forming apparatus itself, and proceeds to step S50.

[0055] In step S50, CPU 72A instructs image forming apparatus 20B, which is its own apparatus, to form an image using the settings used when a previous image was formed, i.e., the previous color profile (second color adjustment data) used when the first image was formed. The previous color profile may be data stored in the memory of its own apparatus, or may be read from backup server 12. Then, CPU 72A proceeds to END, ending the job.

[0056] Here, the sequence from steps S22 and S50 to END will be described with reference to FIG.

[0057] First, the user instructs the regeneration of an image.

[0058] Next, the controller 70B acquires, as backup data from the backup server 12, image B scanned by the inspection unit 30B, the date and time the image was formed, and device information such as the model and serial code of the image forming device 20B. The controller 70B then displays the contents of the acquired backup data to the user, allowing the user to select an image as a job. Furthermore, the controller 70B confirms from the device information included in the acquired backup data that the image forming device 20 at the time the backup data was created is its own device (image forming device 20B).

[0059] The controller 70B further acquires, as backup data from the backup server 12, image data, settings and resources of the image forming apparatus 20B (including a color profile as second color adjustment data), and other information.

[0060] Then, the controller 70B creates a job using the acquired backup data and instructs the image forming apparatus 20B to form an image.

[0061] After the image forming apparatus 20B forms an image on the recording medium, the image forming apparatus 20B transmits a notification of completion of formation and other information to the controller 70B.

[0062] Finally, the controller 70B displays completion to the user.

[0063] In this manner, the image is re-formed by the image forming apparatus 20B.

[0064] [[[For other devices]] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, if the determination result in step S22 is "NO," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30, assuming that an image is to be re-formed by an image forming apparatus 20 different from the image forming apparatus 20 that previously formed the image. In this embodiment, the CPU 72A of the controller 70B causes an image forming apparatus 20A different from the own apparatus (image forming apparatus 20B) to re-form an image (an example of a first image) previously formed by the own apparatus (image forming apparatus 20B). That is, the following description is given assuming that the controller 70B instructs the image forming apparatus 20B to re-form the image. Note that the image forming apparatus 20A is an example of one image forming apparatus.

[0065] In step S30, the CPU 72A acquires the scanned image A scanned by the inspection unit 30A of the image forming apparatus 20A from the backup server 12. The scanned image A is an example of first scanned data. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S32.

[0066] Next, in step S32, the CPU 72A creates a color profile (first color adjustment data) for the image forming apparatus 20B based on the acquired read image A. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S34.

[0067] Next, in step S34, the CPU 72A causes the image forming apparatus 20B to re-form an image based on the color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B.

[0068] Here, the sequence from steps S30 and S32 to step S34 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0069] First, the user instructs the regeneration of an image.

[0070] Next, controller 70B acquires, as backup data from backup server 12, image A scanned by inspection unit 30A of image forming apparatus 20A, the date and time the image was formed, and apparatus information. Then, controller 70B displays the contents of the acquired backup data to the user, allowing the user to select an image as a job. Furthermore, controller 70B confirms, from the apparatus information included in the acquired backup data, that the image forming apparatus 20 at the time the backup data was created is an image forming apparatus 20A different from its own apparatus (image forming apparatus 20B).

[0071] The controller 70B further acquires at least image data from the backup server 12 as backup data.

[0072] Furthermore, the controller 70B creates a color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B from the acquired image A read by the image forming apparatus 20A and the image data.

[0073] The controller 70B creates a job for the image forming apparatus 20B with settings that apply the created color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B to the image data, and then the controller 70B instructs the image forming apparatus 20B to form an image.

[0074] After the image forming apparatus 20B forms an image on the recording medium, it transmits a notification of the completion of formation and other information to the controller 70B.

[0075] Finally, the controller 70B displays completion to the user.

[0076] In this manner, the image is re-formed by the image forming apparatus 20B.

[0077] 〔inspection〕 As shown in FIG. 3, when the image formation in step S34 is completed, the CPU 72A proceeds to S36.

[0078] In step S36, the CPU 72A inspects the image re-formed by the inspection unit 30B of the image forming apparatus 20B. Details of the inspection will be described with reference to FIG.

[0079] 7, the CPU 72A starts the inspection. When the inspection starts, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S62.

[0080] In step S62, the CPU 72A determines whether the color difference between the read image A by the image forming apparatus 20A associated with past image formation and the read image N by the image forming apparatus 20B associated with the inspection is equal to or greater than a first threshold value ΔE. The read image N is an example of third read data. The first threshold value ΔE is a value set by the user using at least one of the values ​​obtained by converting the image data and the read image N into L*a*b*.

[0081] If the determination result is "YES", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S64. The CPU 72A outputs color difference information including color differences in step S64. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to END to end the inspection.

[0082] On the other hand, if the determination result is "NO", the CPU 72A proceeds to END to end the test.

[0083] Here, the sequence from step S34 to step S36 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0084] First, the controller 70B instructs the image forming apparatus 20B to re-form an image.

[0085] Next, the image forming apparatus 20B re-forms the image on the recording medium, and the re-formed image is read by the inspection unit 30B. The image forming apparatus 20B transmits the read image N, along with a formation completion notification and other information, to the controller 70B.

[0086] The controller 70B may instruct the backup server 12 to store the scanned image N and the color profile (third color adjustment data) used when the image was formed.

[0087] The controller 70B then displays the results to the user.

[0088] In this manner, the image is inspected by the controller 70B.

[0089] 〔backup〕

[0090] As shown in FIG. 3, when the CPU 72A completes the inspection in step S36, the process proceeds to S40.

[0091] In step S40, the CPU 72A determines whether to save information related to image data relating to the reconstructed image in the backup server 12. If the determination result is "NO", the CPU 72A does not instruct the backup server 12 to save the information, and proceeds to END, ending the job.

[0092] On the other hand, if the determination result in step S40 is "YES", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S42 and instructs the storage of the information in the backup server 12. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to END and ends the job.

[0093] Here, the sequence from step S40 to END will be described with reference to FIG.

[0094] After the image forming apparatus 20B forms an image on the recording medium, the image forming apparatus 20B transmits a notification of completion of formation and other information to the controller 70B.

[0095] The controller 70B instructs the backup server 12 to save the information. Specifically, the controller 70B transmits the settings and resources of the image forming device 20B, the formation date and time when the image was re-formed, device information, etc. as backup data to the backup server 12. The controller 70B also displays a completion message to the user.

[0096] As a result of the above, an image is re-formed by the image forming apparatus 20B to which the color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B is applied.

[0097] [Example of image search] An example of image search in this embodiment will be described. In the above embodiment, as shown in Fig. 3, the CPU 72A of the controller 70B accepts image data relating to an image to be formed by the image forming apparatus 20 as a job in step S10, but various methods for accepting a job can be used. For example, if multiple images have been formed in advance by multiple image forming apparatuses 20A, 20B, and 20C, and scanned images relating to the formed images have been saved in the backup server 12, an image search mode can be selected.

[0098] 10, the CPU 72A of the controller 70B starts an image search mode, and then the CPU 72A proceeds to step S71.

[0099] Next, the CPU 72A accepts an image search in step S71. When accepting the search target, the CPU 72A may access the backup server 12 in advance, display multiple saved images, and accept an image selected by the user as the image to be searched. Upon accepting the image search, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S72.

[0100] Next, in step S72, the CPU 72A accesses the backup server 12. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S73.

[0101] Next, the CPU 72A extracts candidate images to be candidates for image formation from the read data in step S73, and then the CPU 72A proceeds to step S74.

[0102] Next, the CPU 72A displays the candidate images to the user in step S74. In this case, information about the formation of the candidate images, such as device information and the formation date and time, may be displayed together with the candidate images. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to END, ending the search.

[0103] [An example of determining whether to reshape] An example of the determination of whether to re-form an image in this embodiment will be described. In the above embodiment, as shown in Fig. 3, the CPU 72A determines in step S20 whether the image to be formed is a re-formation of an image previously formed by any one of the image forming devices 20, but various methods can be used to determine whether to re-form an image. For example, if a user owns a recording medium on which an image has been formed and wishes to re-form that image (original image), the following methods can be used.

[0104] 11, the CPU 72A starts the image reformation determination mode, and then the CPU 72A proceeds to step S81.

[0105] Next, in step S81, the CPU 72A reads an original image held by the user and creates scan data. The scan data is an example of read data. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S82.

[0106] Next, in step S82, the CPU 72A accepts the image related to the scan data as an image to be searched for. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S83.

[0107] Next, in step S83, the CPU 72A accesses the backup server 12. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S84.

[0108] Next, in step S84, the CPU 72A determines whether the image to be searched for is included in the images stored in the backup server 12.

[0109] If the determination result in step S84 is "NO", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S87 and performs the first image formation based on the read data.Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to END and ends the determination of re-formation.

[0110] On the other hand, if the determination result in step S84 is "YES", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S85 and performs reformation using the image stored in the backup server 12 as a candidate image. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to END and ends the determination of reformation.

[0111] Here, the sequence from step S80 to step S86 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0112] In response to a user's instruction to re-form an image, the controller 70 acquires from the backup server 12 backup data including the image read by the inspection unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 20, the date and time the image was formed, and apparatus information.

[0113] Next, the controller 70B requests the user to scan the original image and acquires the scanned data. The controller 70B compares the read data with the scanned data to identify the job that is the target of the initial image formation or re-formation.

[0114] Finally, the controller 70B displays confirmation of the specified job to the user.

[0115] With the above, the CPU 72A ends the re-formation determination mode.

[0116] <Action and effect> Next, the operation and effects of the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0117] When instructed to form an image based on the same image data as the image formed by the image forming apparatus 20A, the controller 70B of this embodiment creates a color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B based on first read data obtained by reading the image formed by the image forming apparatus 20A, and executes a mode in which the image forming apparatus 20B forms an image based on the image data and the color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B. Furthermore, the control program executed by the CPU 72A of this embodiment causes the computer to execute processing including instructing the computer to execute a mode in which, when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as the image formed by the image forming apparatus 20A, the controller 70B creates a color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B based on first read data obtained by reading the image formed by the image forming apparatus 20A, and executes a mode in which the image forming apparatus 20B forms an image based on the image data and the color profile for the image forming apparatus 20B.

[0118] As described above, when the control program executed by the controller 70B or the CPU 72A causes the image forming device 20B to form an image based on the same image data as the image formed by the image forming device 20A, the color of the image can be made closer to the color of the image formed by the image forming device 20A compared to when a color profile for the image forming device 20A is used.

[0119] In addition, in a mode different from the above mode, the controller 70B of the present embodiment saves the read image B obtained by reading an image formed by the image forming apparatus 20B and the color profile used by the image forming apparatus 20B when the image was formed, and when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as the image related to the saved read data and the read data is the first read data used by the image forming apparatus 20A, executes the above mode, and when instructed to form an image based on the same image data as the image related to the saved read data and the read data is the read image B used by the image forming apparatus 20B, causes the image forming apparatus 20B to form an image based on the image data and the color profile used by the image forming apparatus 20B. As a result, when the image forming apparatus 20B forms an image based on the same image data as an image already formed, the newly formed image can be formed based on the image data of the already formed image and the first color adjustment data.

[0120] Furthermore, the controller 70B of this embodiment stores third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the image forming apparatus 20B by executing the mode, and a color profile by the image forming apparatus 20B when the image was formed. This allows for more flexibility in selecting colors when forming an image by the image forming apparatus 20B, compared to when only read data by a single image forming apparatus 20B is stored.

[0121] Furthermore, the controller 70B of this embodiment acquires third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the image forming apparatus 20B by executing the mode, and outputs color difference information if the color difference between the first read data by the image forming apparatus 20A and the third read data by the image forming apparatus 20B is equal to or greater than a first threshold value, thereby prompting the user to check the image formed by the image forming apparatus 20B.

[0122] Furthermore, when the controller 70 of this embodiment receives an image search request, it accesses the backup server 12, which stores scanned data of images formed by multiple image forming devices 20, extracts and displays candidate images, thereby presenting candidate images to the user.

[0123] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment accesses the backup server 12 that stores scanned data of images formed by multiple image forming devices 20, displays multiple stored images, and accepts an image selected by the user as the image to be searched for. This allows the user to specify the search target without having to prepare an image.

[0124] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment accepts an image related to scan data created by reading an original image as an image to be searched, accesses the backup server 12 where scanned data of images formed by multiple image forming devices 20 is stored, and extracts the candidate images by comparing the image to be searched with the stored images. This allows the search target to be specified based on the original image held by the user.

[0125] In this embodiment, when the stored image does not match the image to be searched and an instruction to form an image identical to the original image is received, the controller 70 causes the image forming device to form an image based on the scan data of the original image, thereby forming a new image from the original image.

[0126] <Modification> The above describes embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. However, it is clear that a person with ordinary knowledge in the field of technology to which the present disclosure pertains can conceive of various modifications or applications within the scope of the technical ideas set forth in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0127] The above processing can also be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit, in which case it may be executed by a single piece of hardware or by multiple pieces of hardware.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0129] Furthermore, the operations of the processor in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Alternatively, the operations performed by specific processors in the above embodiments may be partially or entirely integrated into a single processor. Furthermore, the order of the processor operations is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0130] The program for operating the controller 70 may be provided by a computer-readable recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a flexible disk, or a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is typically transferred to and stored in a memory or storage device. The program may be provided as standalone application software, or may be incorporated into the software of each device as a function of the controller 70.

[0131] <Additional Notes> (((1))) a processor; The processor: When an instruction is given to form an image based on the same image data as the first image formed by one image forming apparatus, creating first color adjustment data for another image forming apparatus based on first read data obtained by reading a first image formed by the one image forming apparatus, and executing a mode in which the other image forming apparatus forms an image based on the image data and the first color adjustment data; Information processing system. (((2))) The processor: storing second read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming apparatus in a mode different from the first mode and second color adjustment data obtained when the image was formed; When an instruction is given to form an image based on the same image data as the image related to the stored read data, and the read data is the first read data, the mode is executed; When an instruction is given to form an image based on image data that is the same as the image related to the stored read data, and the read data is the second read data, the other image forming device is caused to form an image based on the image data and the second color adjustment data. The information processing system according to (((1))). (((3))) The processor: and storing third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming apparatus by executing the mode and third color adjustment data obtained when the image was formed. The information processing system according to (((2))). (((4))) The processor: acquiring third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming apparatus by executing the mode; outputting color difference information when the color difference between the first read data and the third read data is equal to or greater than a first threshold value; The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((3))). (((5))) The processor: When an image search is received, a server is accessed in which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming devices is stored, and candidate images are extracted and displayed. The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((4))). (((6))) The processor: accessing a server in which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming apparatuses is stored, displaying a plurality of stored images, and accepting an image selected by a user as an image to be searched; The information processing system according to (((5))). (((7))) The processor: Accepting an image related to the scanned data created by scanning the original image as an image to be searched; accessing a server in which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming devices is stored, and extracting the candidate images by comparing the search target image with the stored images; The information processing system according to (((5))). (((8))) The processor: When the stored image does not match the image to be searched and an instruction to form an image identical to the original image is received, causing an image forming apparatus to form an image based on the read data to be searched; The information processing system according to (((7))). (((9))) On the computer, When an instruction is given to form an image based on the same image data as the first image formed by one image forming apparatus, creating first color adjustment data for another image forming apparatus based on first read data obtained by reading a first image formed by the one image forming apparatus, and instructing the other image forming apparatus to execute a mode in which an image is formed based on the image data and the first color adjustment data; An information processing program that executes processing including the above.

[0132] According to the information processing system (((1))) or the information processing program (((9))), when an image based on the same image data as a first image formed by one image forming device is formed by another image forming device, the color of the image can be made closer to the color of the first image compared to when first color adjustment data for the one image forming device is used. According to the information processing system (((2))), when another image forming device forms an image based on the same image data as an image already formed by another image forming device, the newly formed image can be formed based on the image data of the already formed image and the first color adjustment data. According to the information processing system (((3))), compared to a case where only the second scanned data is stored, it is possible to increase the scope for selecting colors when forming images using other image forming apparatuses. According to the information processing system of (((4))), it is possible to prompt the user to check images formed by other image forming apparatuses. According to the information processing system (((5))), it is possible to present candidate images to be searched for to the user. According to the information processing system (((6))), the user can specify a search target without preparing an image. According to the information processing system (((7))), it is possible to identify a search target based on an original image held by a user. According to the information processing system of (((8))), an original image can be formed as a new image. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 10. Image forming system 12 Backup server (example of a server) 14 Management Server 20 Image forming device 20A Image forming apparatus (an example of an image forming apparatus) 20B Image forming apparatus (an example of another image forming apparatus) 20C Image forming device 30 Inspection Department 40 Internet lines 70 Controller 78 Input / output section 80 Network Interface ΔE first threshold

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: When an instruction is given to form an image based on the same image data as the first image formed by one image forming apparatus, creating first color adjustment data for another image forming apparatus based on first read data obtained by reading a first image formed by the one image forming apparatus, and executing a mode in which the other image forming apparatus forms an image based on the image data and the first color adjustment data; Information processing system.

2. The processor: storing second read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming apparatus in a mode different from the first mode and second color adjustment data obtained when the image was formed; When an instruction is given to form an image based on the same image data as the image related to the stored read data, and the read data is the first read data, the mode is executed; When an instruction is given to form an image based on image data that is the same as the image related to the stored read data, and the read data is the second read data, the other image forming device is caused to form an image based on the image data and the second color adjustment data. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The processor: and storing third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming apparatus by executing the mode and third color adjustment data obtained when the image was formed. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

4. The processor: acquiring third read data obtained by reading an image formed by the other image forming apparatus by executing the mode; outputting color difference information when the color difference between the first read data and the third read data is equal to or greater than a first threshold value; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

5. The processor: When an image search is received, a server is accessed in which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming devices is stored, and candidate images are extracted and displayed. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

6. The processor: accessing a server in which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming apparatuses is stored, displaying a plurality of stored images, and accepting an image selected by a user as an image to be searched; The information processing system according to claim 5 .

7. The processor: Accepting an image related to the scanned data created by scanning the original image as an image to be searched; accessing a server in which scanned data of images formed by a plurality of image forming devices is stored, and extracting the candidate images by comparing the search target image with the stored images; The information processing system according to claim 5 .

8. The processor: When the stored image does not match the image to be searched and an instruction to form an image identical to the original image is received, causing an image forming apparatus to form an image based on the read data to be searched; The information processing system according to claim 7 .

9. On the computer, When an instruction is given to form an image based on the same image data as the first image formed by one image forming apparatus, creating first color adjustment data for another image forming apparatus based on first read data obtained by reading a first image formed by the one image forming apparatus, and instructing the other image forming apparatus to execute a mode in which an image is formed based on the image data and the first color adjustment data; An information processing program that executes processing including the above.

Images