Image processing method, image processing device, printing system, and image processing program

Abstract

To improve the operability of a user.SOLUTION: An image processing method includes the steps of: (a) acquiring image data representing an image to be formed on a printing medium; (b) acquiring printing conditions including at least one of a type of printing medium, a type of printing, and the number of printing layers; (c) displaying, on a display device, at least one preview image representing a state in which the image is formed on the printing medium on the basis of the printing conditions; (d) performing left-right inversion processing on the image when the left-right inversion processing is required on the basis of the printing conditions; (e) determining an arrangement position at which a printing layer is arranged on the printing medium and a stacking order in which a plurality of printing layers are superimposed in a case where the number of printing layers is plural according to the printing conditions; and (f) outputting, to a printing device, print data for designating the type of printing medium, the arrangement position, the stacking order, and an image on which the left-right inversion processing is performed or the left-right inversion processing is not performed in order to print the image on the printing medium.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing method, an image processing device, a printing system, and an image processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a technique related to an image processing device that, when performing multi-layer printing, accepts from a user specifications for the type of printing medium, the type of color material in each layer, and the order in which each layer is to be printed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-159552 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The technology described in Patent Document 1 requires the user to perform the complex task of specifying the type of colorant for each of up to five layers and the order in which to print each layer. For this reason, a technology that is easy for users to use has been desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present disclosure can be realized in the following forms.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image processing method including: (a) acquiring image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; (b) acquiring printing conditions including at least one of the type of the print medium, the type of printing, and the number of print layers; (c) displaying on a display device at least one preview image representing the image formed on the print medium based on the printing conditions; (d) performing left-right reversal of the image if left-right reversal is required based on the printing conditions; (e) determining, in accordance with the printing conditions, positions at which the print layers are to be arranged on the print medium and, if there are multiple print layers, a stacking order for the multiple print layers; and (f) outputting print data specifying the type of the print medium, the positions, the stacking order, and the image to be left-right reversed or not to be left-right reversed to a printing device, in order to print the image on the print medium.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image processing device including: an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; a printing condition acquisition unit that acquires printing conditions including at least one of the type of the print medium, the type of printing, and the number of print layers; a preview image generation unit that displays a preview image representing the image formed on the print medium on a display device according to the printing conditions; and a print data generation unit that, if a left-right reversal process is required based on the printing conditions, performs the left-right reversal process on the image, determines, according to the printing conditions, an arrangement position of the print layer on the print medium and, if there are multiple print layers, a stacking order of the multiple print layers, and outputs print data to a printing device that specifies the type of the print medium, the arrangement position, the stacking order, and the image to which the left-right reversal process has been performed or the image to which the left-right reversal process has not been performed, in order to print the image on the print medium.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a printing system. The printing system includes an image processing device, a printing device, and a display device. The image processing device includes an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data representing an image to be formed on a printing medium, a printing condition acquisition unit that acquires printing conditions including at least one of the type of the printing medium, the type of printing, and the number of printing layers, a preview image generation unit that displays a preview image representing the image formed on the printing medium on the display device according to the printing conditions, and a print data generation unit that, if a horizontal reversal process is required based on the printing conditions, performs the horizontal reversal process on the image, determines the position of the printing layer on the printing medium and, if there are multiple printing layers, the stacking order of the multiple printing layers according to the printing conditions, and outputs print data to the printing device that specifies the type of the printing medium, the position of the printing layer, the stacking order, and the image to be horizontally reversed or not to be horizontally reversed, in order to print the image on the printing medium. The printing device receives the print data and executes printing on the print medium based on the printing conditions included in the print data.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image processing program that causes a computer to: acquire image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; acquire printing conditions including at least one of the type of the print medium, the type of printing, and the number of print layers; display on a display device a preview image representing the image formed on the print medium based on the printing conditions; perform left-right reversal of the image if left-right reversal is required based on the printing conditions; determine, based on the printing conditions, the positions at which the print layers are to be arranged on the print medium and the stacking order of the multiple print layers; and output, to a printing device, print data that specifies the type of the print medium, the positions, the stacking order, and the image to be left-right reversed or not to be left-right reversed, in order to print the image on the print medium. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a printed matter in which an image is printed on a transparent printing medium. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a printed matter in which an image is printed on a transparent printing medium. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a printed matter in which an image is printed on a transparent printing medium. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a printed matter in which an image is printed on a transparent printing medium. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a user interface for inputting image data. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the processing contents of the CMS. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of color conversion processing. [Figure 10]FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a rendering unit. [Figure 11] 4 is a flowchart showing a printing process executed in the image processing apparatus. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing how the surface of a printed matter expressed as a 3D object in a virtual space is observed. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating the state of observing the back side of a printed matter represented as a 3D object in a virtual space. [Figure 14] 12 is a flowchart of the process of generating print data in step S40 of FIG. 11. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a printed matter according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another printed matter according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of yet another printed matter according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another printed matter. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a user interface for inputting image data. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of an input operation in a user interface in the second embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a method for printing a printed matter. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another method for printing a printed matter. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a printed matter according to a third embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of reverse printing. [Figure 26] 10 is a flowchart of a process for generating print data according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram relating to a printing form. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] A. First embodiment: 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a printing system 10 according to this embodiment. The printing system 10 includes an image processing device 100, an input device 200, a display device 300, and at least one printing device 400. The printing system 10 functions as a printing device in the broad sense.

[0012] The image processing device 100 uses physics-based rendering (hereinafter simply referred to as rendering) to generate a rendering image that corresponds to how a printed matter will appear in a three-dimensional virtual space. Before printing, the image processing device 100 displays the generated rendering image as a preview image on the display device 300. In this embodiment, the appearance of a printed matter in a three-dimensional virtual space is determined by the position and orientation of a three-dimensional object in the virtual space, or the user's viewpoint position and line of sight relative to the three-dimensional object in the virtual space.

[0013] The printing device 400 is an inkjet printing device that prints an image directly onto a print medium. In this embodiment, the printing device 400 prints an image onto a transparent print medium. The print medium has a flat plate shape. The print medium can be a transparent film or sheet made of a material such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PET), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Alternatively, the print medium can be a transparent plate made of a material such as acrylic or glass. However, the print medium may also be translucent. A transparent print medium may have, for example, an average visible light transmittance of 80% or more. Alternatively, a translucent print medium may have, for example, an average visible light transmittance of 30% or more but less than 80%. In this embodiment, processing when a transparent print medium is used will be described. Substantially the same processing can be applied whether a translucent print medium or an opaque print medium is used.

[0014] The printing device 400 can print using CMYKLcLm inks (hereinafter referred to as process inks) as well as special color inks. C is cyan, M is magenta, Y is yellow, K is black, Lc is light cyan, and Lm is light magenta process inks. Special colors are colors other than the process colors CMYKLcLm. In this embodiment, special color inks are used as base inks. White ink, silver ink, gold ink, etc. can be used as base inks. In this embodiment, white ink is used as the base ink.

[0015] In addition to front printing, the printing device 400 can also perform reverse printing. Front printing refers to printing on the front side of a print medium. In this specification, the front side of a print medium refers to the side on which the printed matter is expected to be observed. The reverse side is the side opposite the front side. Reverse printing refers to printing an image on the reverse side of a transparent print medium with the image orientation and printing order reversed. The reverse-printed image can be seen through the transparent print medium. Reverse printing makes it possible to obtain printed matter with a transparent or glossy appearance. Below are some examples of front and reverse printing.

[0016] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a printed matter PT1 in which an image is printed on a transparent printing medium. In the printed matter PT1, a color layer CL in which a front image SG is formed is formed on the surface of the transparent printing medium PM. The printed matter PT1 is printed by surface printing. The color layer CL is formed by printing plates of each process color. The color layer CL is formed by a collection of dots of process ink. The thickness of the layer is exaggerated for convenience of illustration. The printed matter PT1 is intended to be observed only from the front side, but when observed from the back side, a back image RG, which is a left-right inverted image of the front image SG, can be seen. A left-right inverted image is also called a mirror-inverted image.

[0017] 3 to 5 are explanatory diagrams showing other examples of printed matter in which an image is printed on a transparent printing medium. In FIGS. 3 to 5, the thickness of each layer is exaggerated for ease of illustration. FIGS. 2 to 5 show examples of printed matter in which a printing layer is formed on at least one of the front and back surfaces of the printing medium PM. The printing layer includes a color layer CL and a base layer WL, which will be described later. The base layer WL is formed from base ink and serves as a base for the color layer CL.

[0018] In the printed matter PT2 in Figure 3, a color layer CL that forms a back-side image RG is printed on the back side of a transparent printing medium PM. The printed matter PT2 is printed by reverse printing. Figure 3 shows the printed matter PT2 positioned so that the back side of the printing medium PM is facing up. Because the printing medium PM is transparent, when viewed from the front side, the front-side image SG, which is a left-right inverted image of the back-side image RG, can be seen through the printing medium PM.

[0019] In the printed matter PT3 in Figure 4, a color layer CL forming the front image SG and a base layer WL are layered in this order on the back surface of a transparent printing medium PM. Figure 4 shows the printed matter PT3 positioned with the back surface of the printing medium PM facing upward. The base layer WL is formed by a collection of dots of base ink. The base layer WL functions as a base for the color layer CL. The base layer WL is formed over almost the entire back surface of the printing medium PM. Because the printed matter PT3 is printed by reverse printing, when viewed from the front side, the front image SG and the base region WG surrounding the front image SG are visible through the printing medium PM. The printed matter PT3 is intended to be viewed only from the front side. When viewed from the back side, only the base region WG is visible over almost the entire back surface of the printing medium PM. In this case, the left-right inverted image of the front image SG is not visible.

[0020] In the printed matter PT4 of Figure 5, a color layer CL forming the front image SG and a base layer WL are layered in this order on the back surface of a transparent printing medium PM. Figure 5 shows the printed matter PT4 positioned so that the back surface of the printing medium PM is positioned on top. The base layer WL is formed only in the area of ​​the back surface of the printing medium PM that overlaps the front image SG. More specifically, the base layer WL is formed in an area slightly larger than the area indicated by the outline of the front image SG. The printed matter PT4 is intended to be observed only from the front surface side. When observed from the front surface side, the front image SG and a portion of the base region WG overlapping the front image SG are visible through the printing medium PM. When observed from the back surface side, the base region WG is visible, but the inverted mirror image of the front image SG is not.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing device 100 is a computer including a memory 101, an input / output interface 102, a processor 103, and an internal bus 104. The memory 101, the input / output interface 102, and the processor 103 are communicatively connected via the internal bus 104. The memory 101 stores various programs and data used for various processes executed by the image processing device 100. The memory 101 stores a program PG. An input device 200, a display device 300, and a printing device 400 are connected to the input / output interface 102 via wired or wireless communication. The processor 103 realizes various functions by executing the programs stored in the memory 101. The input device 200 is, for example, a keyboard or a mouse. The display device 300 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display.

[0022] 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the image processing device 100. The image processing device 100 includes an image data acquisition unit 110, a profile acquisition unit 120, a printing condition acquisition unit 130, a parameter acquisition unit 140, a preprocessing unit 150, a rendering unit 160, and a print data generation unit 170. The functions of these units are realized by the processor 103 executing a program PG stored in the memory 101 shown in FIG. 1. The rendering unit 160 is also called a "preview image generation unit."

[0023] 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a user interface UI for inputting image data. The user interface UI is displayed on the display device 300 under the control of the processor 103.

[0024] The user interface UI includes a first input area F1 for inputting image data, a second input area F2 for inputting the type of printing, a third input area F3 for inputting whether or not a base layer is to be used, and a fourth input area F4 for inputting the area where the base is to be formed. By tapping the first input area F1, the user can select image data previously stored in the memory 101 of the image processing device 100, for example. The second input area F2 allows the user to select "front printing" or "reverse printing" as the type of printing. The third input area F3 allows the user to select "with" or "without" the base layer. The fourth input area F4 allows the user to specify the area to be printed with the base ink. In this embodiment, the fourth input area F4 allows the user to select "full," which indicates that the entire printing surface of the printing medium PM is to be printed with the base ink, or "partial," which indicates that only a portion of the printing surface of the printing medium PM is to be printed with the base ink. In this embodiment, if "partial" is selected as the area where the base is to be printed, the base layer is formed corresponding to the area occupied by the color layer CL.

[0025] The image data acquisition unit 110 shown in FIG. 6 acquires image data selected in the first input field F1 (see FIG. 7) of the user interface UI. The image data selected in the first input field F1 is referred to as input image data IMi. The input image data IMi represents an image to be formed on a print medium. The input image data IMi is sent to the pre-processing unit 150.

[0026] The profile acquisition unit 120 acquires an input profile IPF, a media profile MPF, and a common color space profile CPF that are stored in advance in the memory 101. Note that the input profile IPF, media profile MPF, and common color space profile CPF are not shown in FIG. 1. The input profile IPF, media profile MPF, and common color space profile CPF are used for color conversion by a color management system 151 of a pre-processing unit 150, which will be described later. Details of each profile will be described later. Each acquired profile is sent to the pre-processing unit 150. Note that the profile acquisition unit 120 may acquire each profile from an external server via a network (not shown).

[0027] The printing condition acquisition unit 130 acquires printing conditions. The printing conditions include the type of printing medium, the type of printing, the number of printing layers, the type of ink for each printing layer, whether or not undercoat ink is used, the printing resolution, the type of printing device, whether single-sided printing or double-sided printing, etc. The printing conditions acquired by the printing condition acquisition unit 130 are sent to the profile acquisition unit 120, the preprocessing unit 150, and the parameter acquisition unit 140.

[0028] The parameter acquisition unit 140 acquires various parameters used for rendering from the memory 101. The various parameters are stored in advance in the memory 101. The various parameters used for rendering include, for example, three-dimensional object information (hereinafter referred to as 3D object information), camera information, lighting information, and medium parameters. The 3D object information is a parameter related to the shape of the print medium as a three-dimensional object (hereinafter referred to as 3D object) placed in virtual space. The camera information is a parameter related to the position and orientation of the camera placed in virtual space. The lighting information is a parameter related to the type, position, orientation, color, and luminous intensity (amount of light) of the light source placed in virtual space. The types of light source include, for example, fluorescent lamps and incandescent lamps.

[0029] The medium parameters are parameters related to the texture of the print medium. In this embodiment, the medium parameters include a texture parameter that represents the texture of the print medium and a translucency parameter that represents the translucency of the print medium. The texture parameters include, for example, a base color (Base Color) related to the background color of the print medium, smoothness (Smoothness) that represents the smoothness of the print medium, metallicity (Metallic) that represents the metallicity of the print medium, a normal map (Normal Map), and a height map (Height Map). High metallicity increases the likelihood that the surrounding scenery will be reflected in the print medium. Instead of smoothness, the texture parameters may also include roughness (Roughness) that represents the roughness of the print medium. The normal map and height map are used to represent minute irregularities in the print medium that affect light reflection. The normal map is a texture that represents the distribution of normal vectors of minutely irregular surfaces. The height map is a texture that represents the distribution of heights of minutely irregular surfaces. Reducing the size of the polygons that make up a 3D object to represent minute irregularities results in an enormous number of polygons, increasing the computational load of rendering. Using normal maps and height maps makes it possible to represent the effect of minute irregularities on light reflection without reducing the size of polygons. Translucency parameters include media transmittance, which represents the light transmittance (transparency) of the printing medium. Translucency parameters may also include media opacity, which represents the light opacity (opacity) of the printing medium.

[0030] The various parameters acquired by the parameter acquisition unit 140 are transmitted to the rendering unit 160. The parameter acquisition unit 140 may acquire the various parameters from an external server via a network (not shown).

[0031] The preprocessing unit 150 includes a color management system 151, a spot color setting unit 152, and a medium color calculation unit 153. Hereinafter, the color management system 151 may be simply referred to as the CMS 151.

[0032] 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the processing content of the CMS 151. The CMS 151 uses each profile acquired by the profile acquisition unit 120 to execute various color conversion processes.

[0033] The input profile IPF is an ICC (International Color Consortium) profile used for color conversion from the color space of image data (input color space) to a device-independent color space. The input color space is, for example, the RGB color space. The device-independent color space is, for example, the CIE-L*a*b* color space. The media profile MPF is an ICC profile used for color conversion from the device-independent color space to a device-dependent color space for the printing device 400. The device-dependent color space for the printing device 400 is, for example, the CMYK color space. Colors in the device-dependent color space for the printing device 400 are also called device colors. The common color space profile is an ICC profile used for color conversion from the device-independent color space to a color space for rendering. The color space for rendering is, for example, sRGB, AdobeRGB, or Display-P3.

[0034] An example of color conversion processing executed by the CMS 151 is as follows: The CMS 151 executes the following color conversion processing in order on the input image data IMi. (1) A first color transformation CC1 from the input color space to a device-independent space using the input profile IPF. (2) A second color transformation CC2 from the device independent color space to the device dependent color space for the printing device 400 using the media profile MPF. (3) A third color transformation CC3 from a device-dependent color space to a device-independent color space for the printing device 400 using the media profile MPF. (4) A fourth color transformation CC4 from a device-independent color space to a rendering color space using the common color space profile CPF.

[0035] The first color conversion CC1 and the second color conversion CC2 convert the color values ​​of the image data into a range that can be represented by printing. In other words, the first color conversion CC1 and the second color conversion CC2 convert the color values ​​of the image data into color values ​​in a color space that depends on the printing device and the printing medium. The image data that has undergone the first color conversion CC1 and the second color conversion CC2 is called device color image data IMd. The device color image data IMd is sent to the print data generation unit 170 (see FIG. 6). Note that, for example, multiple input image data IMi may be input because images are printed on both sides of the printing medium PM. In this case, multiple device color image data IMd are obtained by performing color conversion on each input image data IMi.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 8, the third color conversion CC3 and the fourth color conversion CC4 convert the color values ​​of the image data into a range that can be represented by rendering. By applying the first color conversion CC1 to the fourth color conversion CC4, the color values ​​of the image data are converted into color values ​​in the rendering color space. The image data converted into color values ​​in the rendering color space is called rendering image data IMm. The rendering image data IMm is used as a texture to be added to the polygon representing the color layer CL in rendering. The RGBA values ​​of the base color of the color layer CL are set to (1,1,1,1). The rendering image data IMm is sent to the rendering unit 160. Furthermore, for example, multiple input image data IMi may be input because images are printed on both sides of the printing medium PM. In this case, multiple pieces of rendering image data IMm are obtained by performing color conversion processing on each piece of input image data IMi.

[0037] 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of color conversion processing. For the sake of convenience, multiple CMSs 151 are shown in FIG. 9, but these are the same CMS 151.

[0038] The spot color setting unit 152 generates spot color image data IMt and spot color image data for rendering IMmt. The spot color image data IMt is image data for printing the base layer WL. The spot color image data for rendering IMmt is image data obtained by converting the spot color image data IMt into color values ​​in the rendering color space. Note that, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, if the base layer WL is not formed, it is not necessary to generate the spot color image data IMt and the spot color image data for rendering IMmt.

[0039] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, if the base layer WL is formed over a larger area than the color layer CL, the spot color setting unit 152 first determines the area occupied by the image, which is the area printed with process ink, from the values ​​of each pixel in the input image data IMi. The area occupied by the image to be printed refers to the area composed of pixels having a substantial color, i.e., pixels where R=G=B=1. The spot color setting unit 152 generates spot color image data IMt by performing an expansion process on the surface image SG. The spot color image data IMt indicates the area where base ink is printed to form the base layer WL. The spot color image data IMt is used to create a spot color plate to be used to print the base ink. The color space of the spot color image data IMt is a device-dependent color space for the printing device 400. The spot color image data IMt is a grayscale image of a single color, white. The spot color image data IMt is sent to the print data generation unit 170. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, when the base layer WL is formed over almost the entire back surface of the printing medium PM, the spot color setting unit 152 generates spot color image data IMt representing that the base layer WL is formed over the entire back surface.

[0040] The spot color setting unit 152 also generates spot color image data for rendering IMmt by converting the spot color image data IMt into an image for rendering. The spot color image data for rendering IMmt is used as a texture to be added to the polygons representing the base layer WL during rendering. In this embodiment, since white ink is used to print the base layer WL, the spot color setting unit 152 sets, for example, (1,1,1,1) as the RGBA values ​​of the base color of the base layer WL. The spot color image data for rendering IMmt is sent to the rendering unit 160.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 9, the medium color calculation unit 153 obtains YXZ values ​​representing the color of the print medium PM from the media profile MPF. The media profile MPF pre-stores XYZ values ​​representing the color of the print medium PM. The CMS 151 converts the XYZ values ​​Clx representing the color of the print medium PM into RGB values ​​using the common color space profile CPF. The medium color calculation unit 153 also obtains a medium transmittance α representing the light transmittance (transparency) of the print medium. The medium transmittance is included in the medium parameters obtained by the parameter acquisition unit 140. The medium color calculation unit 153 combines the RGB values ​​obtained by converting the XYZ values ​​Clx representing the color of the print medium PM with the medium transmittance α, and outputs the combined values ​​to the rendering unit 160 as an RGBA value representing the rendering medium color Clp.

[0042] The rendering unit 160 generates a rendered image that represents how the print medium on which the image is printed will look in virtual space. In the rendering, the printed matter is represented as a 3D object in virtual space.

[0043] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the rendering unit 160. The rendering unit 160 employs a pipeline configuration including a vertex pipeline VPL, a rasterizer RRZ, a pixel pipeline PPL, and a post-processing unit. The vertex pipeline VPL includes a vertex shader VS and a geometry shader GS. The pixel pipeline PPL includes a pixel shader PS and a render backend RBE.

[0044] The vertex shader VS uses 3D object information, camera information, and lighting information to perform processing related to the polygons that make up the 3D object. This processing includes coordinate transformation of the vertices of each polygon that makes up the 3D object, calculation of the normal vectors of each polygon, shading, and calculation of texture mapping coordinates (UV coordinates). Coordinate transformations include model transformation, which is a coordinate transformation from the 3D object's local coordinate system to the world coordinate system, view transformation, which is a coordinate transformation from the world coordinate system to the view coordinate system, and projection transformation, which is a coordinate transformation from the view coordinate system to the screen coordinate system. Some of the above coordinate transformations may be performed by the geometry shader GS. The processing results of the vertex shader VS are sent to the geometry shader GS.

[0045] The geometry shader GS processes a set of vertices of a 3D object. The geometry shader GS can convert polygons into points and lines, and convert points or lines into polygons, by increasing or decreasing the number of vertices. The processing results of the geometry shader GS are sent to the rasterizer RRZ. Note that the rendering unit 160 does not necessarily need to be provided with a geometry shader GS. In this case, the processing results of the vertex shader VS are sent to the rasterizer RRZ.

[0046] The rasterizer RRZ performs rasterization processing to generate drawing information for each pixel from the processing results of the vertex pipeline VPL. The processing results of the rasterizer RRZ are sent to the pixel shader PS.

[0047] The pixel shader PS performs lighting processing using the rasterized 3D object, image data, and material parameters to calculate the colors of the front and back polygons corresponding to each pixel. The Disney principle BRDF (Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function) can be used as a function to calculate the reflection of light during lighting processing. The processing results of the pixel shader PS are sent to the render backend RBE.

[0048] The render backend RBE determines whether to write pixel data generated by the pixel shader PS to the display area of ​​the memory 101. If the render backend RBE determines to write to the memory 101, the pixel data is saved as a drawing target. If the render backend RBE does not determine to write to the memory 101, the pixel data is not saved as a drawing target. The determination of whether to write is made using, for example, an alpha test, a depth test, or a stencil test. In this embodiment, the pixel data includes color information of front-facing polygons and color information of back-facing polygons. The render backend RBE writes the colors of polygon objects from the farthest side to the camera, for example, using a depth sorting method. After writing the color of the farthest polygon object, when writing the color of the nearer polygon, the render backend RBE combines the color of the farther polygon with the color of the nearer polygon, for example, using alpha blending, depending on the transparency of the nearer polygon. If the transparency is zero, the color of the polygon in the foreground is overwritten by the color of the polygon in the background when the color of the polygon in the foreground is written. This process of writing to the display area is also called the "drawing process." Pipeline processing ends when the pixel data is written to memory 101.

[0049] The post-processing unit PST performs post-processing such as anti-aliasing, ambient occlusion, screen space reflection, and depth of field processing on the rendered image made up of pixel data stored in the memory 101. Post-processing improves the appearance of the rendered image.

[0050] The print data generation unit 170 generates print data to be supplied to the printing device 400. The print data generation unit 170 includes a setting unit 171, a plate separation unit 173, and a halftone processing unit 175.

[0051] The setting unit 171 determines whether or not left-right flipping of the image to be printed is necessary depending on the printing conditions. Specifically, when "reverse printing" is selected as the type of printing, the setting unit 171 determines that left-right flipping of the image to be printed is necessary. When "front printing" is selected as the type of printing, the setting unit 171 determines that left-right flipping of the image to be printed is not necessary.

[0052] If left-right reversal processing is required, that is, if reverse printing is specified, the setting unit 171 performs left-right reversal processing of the device color image data IMd obtained by the color conversion processing of the CMS 151. On the other hand, if front printing is specified, reversal processing is not performed.

[0053] The setting unit 171 also determines the order in which the printing layers are stacked. Specifically, depending on the printing conditions, the placement position (placement surface) at which the printing layer is placed on the printing medium and the stacking order in which the multiple printing layers are stacked when there are multiple printing layers are determined. If the base layer is selected as "yes," there will be two printing layers: a color layer and a base layer. If the base layer is selected as "no," there will be one printing layer: a color layer. If "reverse printing" is selected as the printing type, each layer will be placed on the reverse side of the printing medium. If "front printing" is selected as the printing type, each layer will be placed on the front side of the printing medium.

[0054] For example, if "reverse printing" is selected as the type of printing and "yes" as the base layer, it is determined that a color layer and a base layer will be overlaid in this order on the back side of the print medium. Also, if "front printing" is selected as the type of printing and "yes" as the base layer, it is determined that a base layer and a color layer will be overlaid in this order on the front side of the print medium.

[0055] The plate separating unit 173 converts the output value of each pixel of the device color image data IMd, which may or may not have been subjected to left-right flipping, into density values ​​of multiple color materials of the printing device 400. In this embodiment, the plate separating unit 173 converts the CMYK output value of each pixel of the device color image data IMd into density values ​​of each color of process ink. Furthermore, the plate separating unit 173 converts the output value of each pixel of the spot color image data IMt into density values ​​of the base ink. The processing of the plate separating unit 173 generates the CMYKLcLm plates and spot color plates. Note that when printing is performed on both sides of the printing medium PM, the plate separating unit 173 generates the CMYKLcLm plates and spot color plates for both the front and back sides of the printing medium PM.

[0056] The halftone processing unit 175 generates print data by performing halftone processing using the density values ​​of each pixel after color separation. The printing device 400 receives the print data sent from the halftone processing unit 175 and executes printing based on the printing conditions included in the received print data. Note that when printing is performed on both sides of the print medium PM, the halftone processing unit 175 generates print data for both the front and back sides of the print medium PM.

[0057] 11 is a flowchart showing a printing process executed in the image processing device 100. The process in FIG. 11 starts when an operation instruction is received via the input device 200 from the user, for example.

[0058] In step S10, input image data IMi and printing conditions are acquired. Specifically, first, a user interface UI (see FIG. 7) is displayed on the display device 300. Then, image data (input image data IMi) specified by a user through input via the user interface UI is acquired. Then, information indicating the printing conditions entered by the user through the user interface UI is acquired. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the printing type, the presence or absence of a base layer, and the range of the base layer can be specified as printing conditions. The processing of step S10 is executed by the processor 103 functioning as the image data acquisition unit 110 and the printing condition acquisition unit 130.

[0059] In step S20, preprocessing is performed by each unit of the preprocessing unit 150. The contents of the preprocessing are as shown in FIG. 9. Through the preprocessing, device color image data IMd, spot color image data IMt, rendering image data IMm, rendering spot color image data IMmt, and rendering medium color Clp are generated. The device color image data IMd and spot color image data IMt are sent to the print data generation unit 170. The rendering image data IMm, rendering spot color image data IMmt, and rendering medium color Clp are sent to the rendering unit 160.

[0060] In step S30, the rendering image generated by the rendering unit 160 is displayed as a preview image on the display device 300. The processing of the rendering unit 160 is as shown in FIG. 10. In step S40, print data is generated by the print data generation unit 170. Details of the processing of step S40 will be described later. In step S50, the print data is sent to the printing device 400. The above is a series of processing related to printing executed in the image processing device 100.

[0061] In this embodiment, the image processing device 100 displays a rendering image as a preview image. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram that shows a schematic view of observing the front side of a printed matter represented as a 3D object in virtual space. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram that shows a schematic view of observing the back side of a printed matter represented as a 3D object in virtual space. Here, as shown in FIG. 2, an example of a printed matter printed on the front side of a printing medium PM by front printing is shown. The printed matter is represented as a 3D object OBJ (3-dimensional object). The 3D object OBJ includes a polygon object POa for rendering the printing medium PM and a polygon object POb for rendering the printing layer.

[0062] Two polygon objects POa and POb are arranged parallel to each other. The normal vector Np of polygon object POa faces the surface of 3D object OBJ. 3D object OBJ is illuminated by light source LS. In FIGS. 12 and 13, the line of sight of camera CM is indicated by a dashed arrow. In rendering processing, 3D object OBJ is treated as a transparent object. For convenience, the distance between the two polygon objects POa and POb is depicted as large in FIGS. 12 and 13. However, in reality, the distance between polygon objects POa and POb in virtual space is very short so that Z-fighting does not occur. Furthermore, in virtual space, the thickness of polygon object POa representing printing medium PM reflects the thickness of printing medium PM, while the thickness of polygon object POb representing the printing layer is almost zero.

[0063] 12 and 13 depict, as coordinate systems used in the rendering process, a local coordinate system Σm (also called a model coordinate system), which is a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system of the 3D object OBJ, a world coordinate system Σg (also called a global coordinate system), which is a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system of the virtual space, and a view coordinate system Σc (also called a camera coordinate system), which is a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system of the camera CM placed in the virtual space. Other coordinate systems, such as a screen coordinate system, which is the coordinate system of the screen onto which the scene viewed from the camera CM is projected, are also used in the rendering process, but are omitted from FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 12, when the line of sight of the camera CM is directed toward the front side of the 3D object OBJ, a front side view of the front side of the 3D object OBJ observed through the camera CM is generated as a rendering image.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 13, when the back side of the 3D object OBJ faces the line of sight of the camera CM, a back side view of the back side of the 3D object OBJ observed through the camera CM is generated as a rendering image.

[0066] The polygon objects POa and POb may each be composed of a single polygon. Alternatively, the polygon objects POa and POb may each be composed of multiple small polygons. If the polygon objects are composed of multiple polygons, it is possible to easily generate rendering images of not only flat printed matter but also curved printed matter.

[0067] The display device 300 displays a preview image showing the state of the front side of the printed matter and a preview image showing the state of the back side, for example, as shown in the lower part of Figures 2 to 5. This allows the user to easily check the state of the front side and the state of the back side of the printed matter printed on the transparent printing medium PM.

[0068] Fig. 14 is a flowchart of the process of generating print data in step S40 of Fig. 11. In step S402, the setting unit 171 determines whether reverse printing is specified. If the setting unit 171 determines that reverse printing is specified (step S402; YES), the process of step S404 is executed. If the setting unit 171 determines that reverse printing is not specified (step S402; NO), the process of step S409 is executed.

[0069] In step S404, the setting unit 171 performs left-right flipping of the image. Here, if the device color image data IMd and the spot color image data IMt are supplied from the preprocessing unit 150, the setting unit 171 performs left-right flipping of each of the device color image data IMd and the spot color image data IMt. On the other hand, if only the device color image data IMd is supplied from the preprocessing unit 150, the setting unit 171 performs left-right flipping of the device color image data IMd. The image data that has undergone left-right flipping is stored in the memory 101.

[0070] In step S405, the setting unit 171 determines whether or not it is specified to overlap multiple print layers. For example, if the base layer is selected as "Yes," the number of print layers will be two: a color layer and a base layer. If it is specified to overlap multiple print layers (step S405; YES), the process of step S407 is executed. If it is not specified to overlap multiple print layers (step S405; NO), the process of step S409 is executed.

[0071] In step S407, the setting unit 171 changes the layering order. In the case of front-side printing, the base layer and color layer are layered in this order on the front side of the print medium. In the case of rear-side printing, the color layer and base layer are layered in this order on the rear side of the print medium.

[0072] In step S409, the setting unit 171 sets the placement position (placement surface) for placing the printing layer on the printing medium and the stacking order for stacking the multiple printing layers if there are multiple printing layers. The setting unit 171 stores data representing the placement position and stacking order in the memory 101.

[0073] If the printing conditions indicate reverse printing and the presence of a base layer, for example, the following data is output: "Layout position (layout surface): reverse, layer order: medium + color layer + base layer." If the printing conditions indicate front printing and the presence of a base layer, for example, the following data is output: "Layout position (layout surface): front, layer order: medium + base layer + color layer."

[0074] In step S411, the plate separating unit 173 creates each of the CMYKLcLm plates, and spot color plates if necessary. In step S413, the halftone processing unit 175 generates print data by performing halftone processing. When the generated print data is sent to the printing device 400, the printing device 400 executes printing.

[0075] In the past, users had to specify the layering order of each layer and prepare a mirror-inverted image. If the user made a mistake in the layering order of the color layer and base layer, the print had to be reprinted. Compared to paper, when using print media made of materials such as acrylic or glass, the cost tends to increase as the number of reprints increases. In this embodiment, when the base layer and color layers are printed, the image processing device 100 determines the layering order based on the position of the medium (the surface of the medium) on which the base layer and color layer are placed. Furthermore, if reverse printing is specified, the image processing device 100 performs a mirror-inverted image process. This reduces the occurrence of human errors by the user. Furthermore, the image processing device 100 displays preview images of the front and back sides of the printed material on the display device 300, allowing the user to check the finished appearance of the printed material before printing. This improves operability during printing. As a result, usability is enhanced.

[0076] B. Second embodiment: In the first embodiment described above, an example in which one color layer is formed on a print medium is described. In the second embodiment, an example in which two or more color layers are formed is described. The following description will focus on the configuration that differs from the first embodiment, and a description of the configuration that is the same as the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0077] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of a printed matter PT5, which is an example of a printed matter in which images are printed on both sides of a transparent printing medium. The upper part of FIG. 15 shows the positional relationship between the printing medium PM and the color layers CL1 and CL2. The lower part of FIG. 15 shows a preview image of the printed matter PT5 displayed on the display device 300 by the image processing device 100. The same applies to FIGS. 16 to 18 described below. In FIG. 15, for convenience, the color layers CL1 and CL2 are represented by frames having the same size as the printing medium PM. The actual color layer CL1 is composed only of the image portion within the frame. The same is true for the color layer CL2.

[0078] In the printed matter PT5, images are printed on both sides of the printing medium PM. Specifically, in the printed matter PT5, a color layer CL1 that forms the front image SG1 is formed on the front surface of the transparent printing medium PM using process ink. That is, the color layer CL1 is formed by front printing. Also, a color layer CL2 that forms the back image RG2 is formed on the back surface of the printing medium PM. That is, the color layer CL2 that forms the back image RG2 is formed by back printing.

[0079] It is assumed that printed matter PT5 will only be observed from the front side. When observed from the back side, a back side image RG1, which is a left-right inverted image of the front side image SG1, is visible. Also, when observed from the front side, a front side image SG2, which is a left-right inverted image of the back side image RG2, is visible.

[0080] Figure 16 is an explanatory diagram of printed matter PT6. In printed matter PT6, images are printed on both sides of a transparent printing medium PM. Starting from the front side of the printing medium PM, a base layer WL1 formed with base ink and a color layer CL1 are overlaid on the front side of the printing medium PM in this order. The color layer CL1 and base layer WL1 are formed by front printing. Starting from the back side of the printing medium PM, a color layer CL2 and base layer WL2 are overlaid on the back side of the printing medium PM in this order. The color layer CL2 and base layer WL2 are formed by back printing.

[0081] The base layer WL1 is a base for the color layer CL1. The base layer WL1 is formed in the same shape as the surface image SG1 formed by the color layer CL1. The base layer WL2 is a base for the color layer CL2. The base layer WL2 is formed in the same shape as the surface image SG2 formed by the color layer CL2.

[0082] It is assumed that printed matter PT6 will only be observed from the front side. When observed from the front side, front images SG1 and SG2 are visible. When observed from the back side, base areas RWG1 and RWG2 are visible. Base area RWG1 has a shape corresponding to a left-right inverted image of front image SG1 and is formed by base layer WL1. Base area RWG2 has a shape corresponding to a left-right inverted image of front image SG2 and is formed by base layer WL2.

[0083] FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of printed matter PT7. In printed matter PT7, an image is printed on one side of a transparent printing medium PM. Starting from the side closest to the surface of the printing medium PM, a color layer CL2, a base layer WL1, and a color layer CL1 are layered on the surface of the printing medium PM in this order. In printed matter PT7, all layers are formed by surface printing.

[0084] The base layer WL1 is a base for the color layers CL1 and CL2. In Fig. 17, the base layer WL1 is formed in an elliptical shape that completely encompasses the front image SG1 formed by the color layer CL1 and the back image RG1 formed by the color layer CL2.

[0085] It is assumed that printed matter PT7 will be observed from both the front and back sides. When observed from the front side, the front image SG1 and the base area SWG1 are visible. The base area SWG1 is formed by the base layer WL1. When observed from the back side, the back image RG2 and the base area RWG1 are visible. The base area RWG1 is formed by the base layer WL1. Note that the back image RG2 is not visible from the front side, and the front image SG1 is not visible from the back side.

[0086] Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram of printed matter PT8. In printed matter PT7 shown in Figure 17, all layers are formed on the front surface of the printing medium PM by front printing, whereas in printed matter PT8 shown in Figure 18, all layers are formed on the back surface of the printing medium PM by back printing. Starting from the side closest to the back surface of the printing medium PM, color layer CL1, base layer WL1, and color layer CL2 are stacked on the back surface of the printing medium PM in this order.

[0087] The base layer WL1 is a base for the color layers CL1 and CL2. In Fig. 18, the base layer WL1 is formed in an elliptical shape that completely encompasses the front image SG1 formed by the color layer CL1 and the back image RG1 formed by the color layer CL2.

[0088] The printed matter PT8 is intended to be observed from both the front and back sides. When observed from the front side, the front image SG1 and the base area SWG1 are visible. The base area SWG1 is formed by the base layer WL1. When observed from the back side, the back image RG2 and the base area RWG1 are visible. The base area RWG1 is formed by the base layer WL1. Note that the back image RG2 is not visible from the front side, and the front image SG1 is not visible from the back side. The printed matter PT8 shown in FIG. 18 and the printed matter PT7 shown in FIG. 17 have in common the fact that the front image SG1 representing a clownfish is visible from the front side, and the back image RG2 representing a shark is visible from the back side. However, because the printed layers of the printed matter PT7 and the printed matter PT8 are formed on different surfaces, the back image RG2 representing a shark is visible through the printing medium PT in the printed matter PT7, whereas the front image SG1 representing a clownfish is visible through the printing medium PT in the printed matter PT8.

[0089] 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a user interface UI2 for inputting image data. The user interface UI2 is displayed on the display device 300 under the control of the processor 103. Here, an example will be described in which an acrylic plate is used as the printing medium PM.

[0090] The user interface UI2 has a display area FM that displays the type of printing medium PM, a button BT1 for adding a printing layer to be overlaid on the front surface of the printing medium PM, a button BT2 for adding a printing layer to be overlaid on the back surface of the printing medium PM, a display area FV for displaying a preview image, and a print button BTP for instructing the start of printing.

[0091] When the user taps button BT1, input form IF1 is displayed. Input form IF1 is used to add a printing layer to be placed on the surface of the acrylic plate used as the printing medium PM. In input form IF1, a color layer and a base layer can be selected. The user can add the desired printing layer by tapping button BT3.

[0092] When the user taps button BT2, input form IF2 is displayed. Input form IF2 is used to add a printing layer to be placed on the back side of the acrylic plate as the printing medium PM. In input form IF2, a color layer and a base layer can be selected. The user can add the desired printing layer by tapping button BT3.

[0093] Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram of input operations in the user interface UI2. Fig. 20 shows the user interface UI2 in a state after the user has added several printing layers. In the example shown in Fig. 20, a base layer and a color layer have been added to the front surface of an acrylic plate as the printing medium PM. A color layer has been added to the back surface of the acrylic plate.

[0094] In the user interface UI2, buttons BT1 and BT2 for adding other printing layers are displayed above and below the printing layer added by the user. In addition, the user interface UI2 displays a button BT4 for deleting each printing layer added by the user. The user can delete an added printing layer by tapping button BT4.

[0095] For example, in the state shown in Figure 20, if the user taps button BT2 on the back surface between the acrylic plate and the color layer, input form IF2 is displayed. In this case, only the base layer can be selected in input form IF2. This is because it is not desirable to overlap a color layer with another color layer. In this way, the user can prevent two or more color layers from accidentally overlapping each other.

[0096] Furthermore, when the user taps on an added color layer, an input form IF3 for inputting image data is displayed. By tapping on a button BT5 on the input form IF3, the user can select image data previously stored in the memory 101 of the image processing device 100, for example. When image data for the added color layer is selected, a preview image is displayed in the display area FV. As an initial setting, a preview image representing the front side of the printed material is displayed in the display area FV. Furthermore, a button BT6 for switching the display of the preview image is displayed at the top of the display area FV. By tapping on the button BT6, the user instructs the display area FV to display either a preview image representing the front side or a preview image representing the back side of the printed material, whichever is different from the currently displayed preview image. Upon receiving a user's operation instruction via the button BT6, the rendering unit 160 updates the display of the rendered image displayed in the display area FV. As a result, the display of the preview image is switched.

[0097] Furthermore, when the user taps on the added base layer, an input form IF4 is displayed for selecting the color of the base ink. The user can select the color of the base ink in input form IF4. In the illustrated example, the user can select "white," "silver," or "gold" as the base ink. Furthermore, the user can select "partial" or "full" as the range for printing the base ink in input form IF4. If "partial" is selected as the range for printing the base ink, the base layer is formed corresponding to the range of the image formed by the color layers. If "full" is selected as the range for printing the base ink, the base layer is formed in a certain range that encompasses the image formed by the color layers.

[0098] In this embodiment, the image data acquisition unit 110 acquires image data of an image selected in the user interface UI2 for each color layer. If two color layers are added in the user interface UI2, input image data IMi is acquired for each color layer. The one or more input image data IMi are sent to the preprocessing unit 150.

[0099] The printing condition acquisition unit 130 acquires printing conditions. The printing conditions include the type of print medium, the type of printing, the number of printing layers, the type of ink for each printing layer, the print resolution, the type of printing device, whether single-sided printing or double-sided printing, etc. In this embodiment, the printing conditions further include the layering order of one or more color layers and one or more base layers overlaid on the front side of the print medium, the layering order of one or more color layers and one or more base layers overlaid on the back side of the print medium, and the color of each base layer.

[0100] 16, the spot color setting unit 152 generates spot color image data IMmt for rendering for the base layer WL1 using input image data IMi corresponding to the color layer CL1. The spot color setting unit 152 also generates spot color image data IMmt for rendering for the base layer WL2 using input image data IMi corresponding to the color layer CL2. The spot color setting unit 152 performs left-right flipping of the image represented by the input image data IMi as necessary. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 16, to obtain the base regions RWG1 and RWG2 that can be seen from the back side, it is necessary to flip the corresponding front-side images left-right.

[0101] The setting unit 171 of the print data generation unit 170 determines images that require left-right flipping processing depending on the placement position (placement surface) of the print layer on the print medium, the number of print layers, the presence or absence of a base layer, etc. If left-right flipping processing is required, the setting unit 171 performs left-right flipping processing on the target device color image data IMd and the target spot color image data IMt.

[0102] Furthermore, the setting unit 171 determines the order in which the print layers are to be stacked depending on the placement position (placement surface) where the print layers are to be placed on the print medium, the number of print layers, whether or not a base layer is present, and the like.

[0103] FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram of a method for printing the printed matter PT5 shown in FIG. 15. Here, printing is performed in two stages. First, front printing is performed, forming a color layer CL1 on the front surface of the printing medium PM. Next, the front and back surfaces of the printing medium PM are reversed. After that, back printing is performed, forming a color layer CL2 on the back surface of the printing medium PM. Here, a left-right inverted image of the input image corresponding to the color layer CL2 is printed as the color layer CL2.

[0104] FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram of a method for printing the printed matter PT6 shown in FIG. 16. First, front printing is performed, forming a base layer WL1 and a color layer CL1 in this order on the front surface of the printing medium PM. Next, the orientations of the front and back surfaces of the printing medium PM are reversed. After that, back printing is performed, forming a color layer CL2 and a base layer WL2 in this order on the back surface of the printing medium PM. Here, a left-right inverted image of the input image corresponding to the color layer CL2 is printed as the color layer CL2 and the base layer WL2.

[0105] When printing the printed matter PT7 shown in Figure 17, the color layer CL2, the base layer WL1, and the color layer CL1 are formed in this order on the front surface of the printing medium PM using front-side printing. The color layer CL2 is intended to be viewed from the back side. Therefore, a horizontally inverted image of the input image corresponding to the color layer CL2 is printed as the color layer CL2.

[0106] As described above, in this embodiment, when a base layer and color layers are printed, the layering order is determined depending on the position (surface of the medium) on which the base layer and color layers are arranged. Furthermore, depending on the placement position (placement surface) of the print layer on the print medium, the number of print layers, the presence or absence of a base layer, etc., a left-right flip process of the image is performed prior to printing, if necessary. Unlike conventional methods, the user does not need to specify the layering order of each layer or prepare a left-right flipped image. This improves operability when printing. As a result, usability is enhanced.

[0107] C. Third embodiment: In the above first and second embodiments, examples have been described in which the printing layer includes a color layer formed by printing process ink and a base layer formed by printing base ink. Furthermore, the printing layer may also include a clear layer. The clear layer is formed by printing clear ink. Clear ink is also called varnish ink. Clear ink is a type of spot color ink, but here, the printing layer formed with clear ink is called the clear layer, and the printing layer formed with base ink is called the base layer. By forming a clear layer on the color layer, the color layer on which the image is formed can be protected. Furthermore, the clear layer can express textures such as matte and glossy finishes. Below, the following description will focus on configurations that are different from the first and second embodiments, and a description of configurations that are similar to the first and second embodiments will be omitted.

[0108] 23 is an explanatory diagram of printed matter PT9. In printed matter PT9, a base layer WL, a color layer CL, and a clear layer VL are layered on the surface of the printing medium PM in this order, starting from the side closest to the surface. In printed matter PT9, the clear layer VL is formed only within the range of the image formed by the color layer CL in order to express the texture of the image formed by the color layer CL. Note that the printing medium PM may also be an opaque printing medium.

[0109] Also, as in the case of printed matter PT6 shown in FIG. 16, color layers may be formed on the front and back surfaces of the printing medium PM. In printed matter PT5, clear layers may be formed on the surfaces of color layers CL1 and CL2. In this case, color layer CL1 and a clear layer (not shown) are formed in this order on the front surface of the transparent printing medium PM. Color layer CL2 and a clear layer (not shown) are formed in this order on the back surface of the printing medium PM.

[0110] The user may be able to specify whether or not to add a clear layer in input forms IF1 and IF2 of user interface UI2 shown in FIG. 20. The user may also use an input form similar to input form IF4 to select "partial" or "full" as the area to print the clear ink. If "partial" is selected as the area to print the clear ink, a clear layer is formed corresponding to the area of ​​the image formed by the color layers. If "full" is selected as the area to print the clear ink, a clear layer is formed in a certain area that encompasses the image formed by the color layers.

[0111] The spot color setting unit 152 generates clear image data for rendering IMmc. The clear image data for rendering IMmc is used as a texture to be added to polygons representing the clear layer in rendering. The spot color setting unit 152 generates clear image data for rendering IMmc for the clear layer using input image data IMi corresponding to the color layer. The method for generating clear image data for rendering IMmc is the same as the method for generating spot color image data for rendering IMmt. Note that if a clear layer VL is not formed on either or both of the front and back surfaces, it is not necessary to generate clear image data for rendering IMmc. In this embodiment, the spot color setting unit 152 generates spot color image data IMt for the base layer and spot color image data IMt for the clear layer.

[0112] When the user specifies that a clear layer be added, the setting unit 171 determines that the color layer formed with process ink and the clear layer formed with clear ink will be layered on the print medium in that order when determining the order in which the print layers will be layered. The user only needs to specify that a clear layer be added, and does not need to specify the layering order. This makes it easy for the user to operate the print settings.

[0113] D. Fourth embodiment: In the third embodiment, an example in which transfer printing is performed in the printing system 10 will be described. The following description will focus on configurations that differ from the first embodiment, and will omit a description of configurations that are similar to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the printing device 400 is capable of performing transfer printing. In this embodiment, the transfer printing performed by the printing device 400 is assumed to be sublimation transfer. Transfer printing refers to a method of printing on a print medium by thermal transfer, in which ink is applied to the recording surface of transfer paper by printing, and the recording surface of the transfer paper is pressed against the print medium to be printed and heated. Examples of print media that can be used include fabric, tiles, and ceramics such as cups.

[0114] 24 and 25 are explanatory diagrams of the transfer printing method. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of front printing. In front printing, first, the input image data IMi is flipped left to right (reversal process). The printing device 400 prints a color layer CL representing the flipped image on the front surface of the transfer paper TP (printing process). The front surface of the transfer paper TP is the recording surface of the transfer paper TP. The printed transfer paper TP is referred to as printed transfer paper TPp. The recording surface of the printed transfer paper TPp is pressed against the surface of the printing medium PM and heated (transfer process). A press appropriate for the shape of the printing medium is used for the transfer process. For example, if the printing medium is fabric, a flat press is used. If the printing medium to be printed has a cylindrical shape, a mag press is used. As a result, a printed matter PT10 is obtained.

[0115] 24, an image of the input image data IMi is printed on the front surface of the print medium PM by transfer. Assuming that the print medium PM is transparent, when the print PT10 is observed from the front side, the image of the input image data IMi is visible without passing through the print medium PM. When the print PT10 is observed from the back side, an inverted image of the image of the input image data IMi is visible through the print medium PM.

[0116] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of reverse printing. In the case of reverse printing, the printing device 400 prints a color layer CL representing the image of the input image data IMi on the front side of the transfer paper TP (printing process). Because this is reverse printing, the input image data IMi is not reversed left to right. The printed transfer paper TPp is heated while the recording surface is pressed against the back side of the printing medium PM (transfer process). As a result, a printed matter PT11 is obtained.

[0117] 25, a reverse image of the image of the input image data IMi is printed on the back side of the printing medium PM by transfer. Assuming that the printing medium PM is transparent, when the printed matter PT11 is observed from the front side, the image of the input image data IMi can be seen through the printing medium PM.

[0118] Fig. 26 is a flowchart of the process of generating print data in this embodiment (see step S40 in Fig. 11). In Fig. 26, the same processes as in Fig. 14 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0119] In step S401, the setting unit 171 determines whether or not execution of transfer printing has been designated. For example, the user designates whether or not to execute transfer printing via a user interface (not shown).

[0120] If transfer printing is designated (step S401; YES), the process proceeds to step S403. If transfer printing is not designated (step S401; NO), the process proceeds to step S402.

[0121] In step S402, the setting unit 171 determines whether reverse printing is specified. If the setting unit 171 determines that reverse printing is specified (step S402; YES), the process of step S404 is executed. If the setting unit 171 determines that reverse printing is not specified (step S402; NO), the process of step S409 is executed.

[0122] In step S403, the setting unit 171 determines whether reverse printing is specified when transfer printing is performed. If reverse printing is specified (step S403; YES), the process of step S409 is executed. This is because reverse printing of the image is not required because it is reverse printing of the transfer printing. If reverse printing is not specified (step S403; NO), the process of step S404 is executed. In step S404, the setting unit 171 executes reverse reversal processing of the image.

[0123] In step S405, the setting unit 171 determines whether or not overlapping of multiple print layers is specified. If overlapping of multiple print layers is specified (step S405; YES), the process of step S407 is executed. If overlapping of multiple print layers is not specified (step S405; NO), the process of step S409 is executed.

[0124] In step S407, the setting unit 171 changes the layering order. When there is a base layer and transfer printing is performed by front printing, the color layer and the base layer are layered in this order on the recording surface of the transfer paper TP, starting from the side closest to the transfer paper TP. When there is a base layer and transfer printing is performed by back printing, the base layer and the color layer are layered in this order on the recording surface of the transfer paper TP, starting from the side closest to the transfer paper TP.

[0125] In step S409, the setting unit 171 sets the placement position (placement surface) where the printing layer is to be placed on the printing medium, and the stacking order for the multiple printing layers if there are multiple printing layers. Note that in the case of transfer printing, the position (placement surface) where the printing layer is to be placed on the transfer paper TP, which is the printing medium, is always the front surface (recording surface). The setting unit 171 stores data representing the placement position and stacking order in memory 101.

[0126] If the printing conditions indicate that transfer, front printing, and a base layer are present, for example, data such as "transfer: present, placement position (placement surface): front, layering order: medium + color layer + base layer" is output. If the printing conditions indicate that transfer, reverse printing, and a base layer are present, for example, data such as "transfer: present, placement position (placement surface): front, layering order: medium + base layer + color layer" is output. The processing of steps S411 and S413 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0127] As described above, in this embodiment, when transfer printing is performed, the stacking order of each print layer is determined. Furthermore, the image is flipped left and right. Unlike conventional methods, the user does not need to specify the stacking order of each layer or prepare a flipped image. This improves operability during printing. As a result, usability is enhanced.

[0128] E. Other Embodiments: E1. Alternative Embodiment 1: In the printing system 10 shown in FIG. 1, an example has been described in which one printing device 400 is connected to the image processing device 100. Two or more printing devices 400 may be connected to the image processing device 100. Each printing device may have different functions. For example, the two or more printing devices 400 may include a DTG (Direct to Garment) printer, an ST (Sublimation Transfer) printer capable of dye sublimation printing, and a DTF (Direct to Film) printer.

[0129] DTG printers are printers that can print directly onto clothing. DTF printers are capable of DTF printing. DTF printing is a thermal transfer printing method in which ink is printed onto the recording surface of a special film, and then the recording surface of the film is pressed against the print medium and heated. While dye sublimation printing is limited to a certain range of print medium materials, DTF printing can print on a wide range of print medium materials.

[0130] In the above third embodiment, an example has been described in which the setting unit 171 of the image processing device 100 determines whether or not transfer printing has been designated by the user (see step S401 in FIG. 26). Alternatively, the printing device 400 may be designated via a user interface (not shown). In this case, the setting unit 171 may acquire the type of the designated printing device 400 and determine whether or not transfer printing is to be performed according to the printing type.

[0131] E2. Alternative Embodiment 2: In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a preview image is generated, whether or not to perform horizontal flipping, and the stacking order of printed layers are determined based on printing conditions including the type of printing. The following describes the types of printing in the above embodiment. FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram of printing formats supported by the image processing device 100. To facilitate understanding of the technology, FIG. 27 assumes that the print medium is plate-shaped. In FIG. 27, the printing formats are first categorized as "method" into direct printing, in which printing is performed directly on the print medium, and transfer printing, in which printing is performed via a medium. Furthermore, the printing formats are categorized as "observation surface," based on whether the surface on which the printed matter is expected to be observed is single-sided or double-sided. In the case of transfer printing, printing on both sides of the medium is not often expected, so in FIG. 27, the observation surface for transfer printing is only single-sided. Furthermore, the printing formats are categorized as "printing surface," based on whether printing is performed on either the front or back side, or both sides. Furthermore, the printing formats are categorized based on whether or not a "spot color" is used. For convenience, FIG. 27 does not define whether or not a spot color is used for transfer printing. The numbers that identify the printing forms classified in this way are referred to as "types."

[0132] For example, printed matter PT1 in Fig. 2 corresponds to Type 2. Printed matter PT3 in Fig. 4 and printed matter PT5 in Fig. 5 correspond to Type 3. Printed matter PT2 in Fig. 3 corresponds to Type 4.

[0133] In this way, the printing form can be varied by combining one or more conditions, such as front printing, back printing, double-sided printing, single-sided printing, and the presence or absence of transfer printing, and various types of printing can be realized. In this specification, the type of printing is specified by the printing form.

[0134] E3. Alternative Embodiment 3: In the second embodiment described above, an example was described in which the display of the front side and the display of the back side of a printed material can be switched by a button (see FIG. 20). The user may be able to switch the display of the front side and the back side of a preview image by an intuitive operation such as a tap operation or a double tap operation.

[0135] E4. Alternative Embodiment 4: In the first embodiment, a preview image of the front and back sides of a printed matter is displayed. For example, in the display area FV of the user interface UI2 (see FIG. 20), the user may be able to freely change the position and posture of a virtual three-dimensional object representing the printed matter.

[0136] F. Other Forms: The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be realized in various configurations without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, the technical features in the embodiments corresponding to the technical features in each aspect described in the Summary of the Invention section can be appropriately replaced or combined to solve some or all of the above-described problems or achieve some or all of the above-described effects. Furthermore, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it can be deleted as appropriate.

[0137] (1) According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image processing method including: (a) acquiring image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; (b) acquiring printing conditions including at least one of the type of the print medium, the type of printing, and the number of print layers; (c) displaying on a display device at least one preview image representing the image formed on the print medium based on the printing conditions; (d) performing left-right reversal of the image if left-right reversal is required based on the printing conditions; (e) determining, in accordance with the printing conditions, a position at which the print layer is to be arranged on the print medium and, if there are multiple print layers, a stacking order for the multiple print layers; and (f) outputting to a printing device print data specifying the type of the print medium, the position, the stacking order, and the image to which the left-right reversal has been performed or the image to which the left-right reversal has not been performed, in order to print the image on the print medium. According to the above embodiment, when there are multiple printing layers, the stacking order of the printing layers is determined by the printing conditions. Therefore, unlike conventional methods, the user does not need to specify the stacking order of each layer, improving operability. As a result, usability is improved. (2) In the image processing method of the above aspect, the method may further include a step (g) of acquiring the type of printing device that will print on the print medium, wherein in the step (d), it is determined whether or not to perform the left-right flip processing of the image depending on the printing conditions and the type of the printing device, and in the step (e), the placement position and the stacking order when there are multiple printing layers depending on the printing conditions and the type of the printing device, and in the step (f), the printing data depending on the printing conditions and the type of the printing device may be output. (3) In the image processing method of the above aspect, the preview image may include an image representing the state of the front side of the print medium and an image representing the state of the back side of the print medium. When the print medium is made of a light-transmitting material, the user can easily check the state of the front and back sides of the printed matter. (4) In the image processing method of the above form, in step (c), a rendering image corresponding to the appearance of the print medium in a three-dimensional virtual space may be displayed as the preview image, and when an instruction to change the position and orientation of the print medium in the virtual space is input via an input device operated by a user, the rendering image displayed on the display device may be updated in response to the instruction. Printed media is displayed in a three-dimensional virtual space, making it easier for users to visually recognize printed materials. (5) In the image processing method of the above aspect, the printing conditions may include whether or not special color inks different from process inks are to be used. (6) In the image processing method of the above form, if the printing conditions specify the use of varnish ink as the spot color ink, it may be determined in step (e) that a layer formed by the process ink and a layer formed by the varnish ink will be laminated on the printing medium in this order; and if the printing conditions specify the use of base ink as the spot color ink and surface printing as the type of printing, it may be determined in step (e) that a layer formed by the base ink and a layer formed by the process ink will be laminated on the printing medium in this order. When using special color inks, the user does not need to specify the stacking order of the print layers, which simplifies the user's operations when printing. (7) In the image processing method of the above form, when the printing medium is formed of a material having translucency, and the printing conditions specify the use of a base ink as the special color ink and reverse printing as the type of printing, it may be determined in step (d) that a left-right reversal process of the image is required, and in step (e) it may be determined that a layer formed by the process ink and a layer formed by the base ink are to be stacked on the printing medium in that order. When printing on a print medium made of a light-transmitting material, the user does not need to specify whether or not to perform left-right reversal processing. Furthermore, the user simply specifies whether or not to use undercoat ink and whether to select front or back printing, and the stacking order of the print layers is determined. This simplifies user operations when printing. (8) In the image processing method of the above aspect, if transfer printing is specified as the type of printing in the printing conditions, it may be determined in step (d) that left-right reversal processing of the image is required. When performing transfer printing, the user does not need to specify whether or not to perform left-right reversal processing, which simplifies the user's operations when printing. (9) In the image processing method of the above aspect, if the printing conditions specify double-sided printing as the type of printing, the printing data for the front side and the printing data for the back side may be generated in step (f). (10) In the image processing method of the above aspect, the type of printing may be determined by one or a combination of a plurality of conditions from among front printing, back printing, double-sided printing, single-sided printing, and the presence or absence of transfer printing. (11) According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image processing device comprising: an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; a printing condition acquisition unit that acquires printing conditions including at least one of the type of the print medium, the type of printing, and the number of print layers; a preview image generation unit that displays a preview image representing the image formed on the print medium on a display device according to the printing conditions; and a print data generation unit that, if left-right reversal processing is required based on the printing conditions, performs the left-right reversal processing of the image, determines, according to the printing conditions, an arrangement position of the print layer on the print medium and, if there are multiple print layers, a stacking order of the multiple print layers, and outputs print data to a printing device that specifies the type of the print medium, the arrangement position, the stacking order, and the image on which the left-right reversal processing has been performed or the image on which the left-right reversal processing has not been performed, in order to print the image on the print medium. According to the above embodiment, when there are multiple printing layers, the stacking order of the printing layers is determined by the printing conditions. Therefore, unlike conventional methods, the user does not need to specify the stacking order of each layer, improving operability. As a result, usability is improved.

[0138] (12) According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a printing system. The printing system includes an image processing device, a printing device, and a display device. The image processing device includes an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data representing an image to be formed on a printing medium, a printing condition acquisition unit that acquires printing conditions including at least one of the type of the printing medium, the type of printing, and the number of printing layers, a preview image generation unit that displays a preview image representing the image formed on the printing medium on the display device according to the printing conditions, and a print data generation unit that, if left-right reversal processing is required based on the printing conditions, performs the left-right reversal processing of the image, determines, according to the printing conditions, an arrangement position of the printing layer on the printing medium and, if there are multiple printing layers, a stacking order of the multiple printing layers, and outputs print data to the printing device that specifies the type of the printing medium, the arrangement position, the stacking order, and the image on which the left-right reversal processing has been performed or the image on which the left-right reversal processing has not been performed, in order to print the image on the printing medium. The printing device receives the print data and executes printing on the print medium based on the printing conditions included in the print data. According to the above embodiment, when there are multiple printing layers, the stacking order of the printing layers is determined by the printing conditions. Therefore, unlike conventional methods, the user does not need to specify the stacking order of each layer, improving operability. As a result, usability is improved.

[0139] (13) According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image processing program that causes a computer to perform the following functions: acquire image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; acquire printing conditions including at least one of the type of the print medium, the type of printing, and the number of print layers; display on a display device a preview image representing the image formed on the print medium based on the printing conditions; perform left-right reversal of the image if left-right reversal is required based on the printing conditions; determine, based on the printing conditions, the position at which the print layer is to be arranged on the print medium and the stacking order of the multiple print layers; and output, to a printing device, print data that specifies the type of the print medium, the position, the stacking order, and the image to be left-right reversed or not to be left-right reversed, in order to print the image on the print medium. According to the above embodiment, when there are multiple printing layers, the stacking order of the printing layers is determined by the printing conditions. Therefore, unlike conventional methods, the user does not need to specify the stacking order of each layer, improving operability. As a result, usability is improved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 10...printing system, 100...image processing device, 101...memory, 102...input / output interface, 103...processor, 104...internal bus, 110...image data acquisition unit, 120...profile acquisition unit, 130...printing condition acquisition unit, 140...parameter acquisition unit, 150...preprocessing unit, 151...color management system, 152...spot color setting unit, 153...medium color calculation unit, 160...rendering unit, 170...print data generation unit, 171...setting unit, 173...plate separation unit, 175...halftone processing unit , 200...input device, 300...display device, 400...printing device, BT1 to BT6...button, BTP...print button, CC1...first color conversion, CC2...second color conversion, CC3...third color conversion, CC4...fourth color conversion, Clp...rendering medium color, CL, CL1, CL2...color layers, CM...camera, CMI...camera information, CPF...common color space profile, F1...first input area, F2...second input area, F3...third input area, F4...fourth input area, FV...display area, GS...geometry shader, IF1 to I F4...input form, IMd...device color image data, IMi...input image data, IMm...image data for rendering, IMmc...clear image data for rendering, IMmt...spot color image data for rendering, IMt...spot color image data, IPF...input profile, LS...light source, MPF...media profile, Np...normal vector, OBJ...3D object, PG...program, PM...printing medium, POa...polygon object, POb...polygon object, PPL...pixel pattern Pipeline, PS...pixel shader, PST...post-processing unit, PT1~PT11...printed material, RBE...render backend, RG,RG1,RG2...backside image, RRZ...rasterizer, RWG1,RWG2,SWG1...base area, SG,SG1,SG2...front side image, TP...transfer paper, TPp...transfer paper, Tbt...color conversion table, UI, UI2...user interface, VPL...vertex pipeline, VS...vertex shader, VR...clear layer, WG...base area, WL,WL1,WL2...base layer

Claims

1. 1. An image processing method, comprising: (a) obtaining image data representative of an image to be formed on a print medium; (b) acquiring printing conditions including at least one of the type of printing medium, the type of printing, and the number of printing layers; (c) displaying on a display device at least one preview image representing a state in which the image is formed on the printing medium based on the printing conditions; (d) performing left-right reversal processing of the image when left-right reversal processing is required based on the printing conditions; (e) determining, in accordance with the printing conditions, the position at which the printing layer is to be placed on the printing medium and, if there are multiple printing layers, the order in which the multiple printing layers are to be stacked; (f) outputting print data to a printing device, the print data specifying the type of print medium, the placement position, the stacking order, and the image with or without the left-right flipping process, in order to print the image on the print medium; An image processing method comprising:

2. 2. The image processing method according to claim 1, (g) acquiring the type of printing device that will print on the print medium; further comprising In the step (d), it is determined whether or not the left-right reversal processing of the image needs to be performed depending on the printing conditions and the type of the printing device; In the step (e), the arrangement position and, when the number of the printing layers is plural, the stacking order are determined according to the printing conditions and the type of the printing device; In the step (f), the print data is output according to the printing conditions and the type of the printing device. Image processing methods.

3. 3. The image processing method according to claim 2, The preview image includes an image representing the state of the front side of the print medium and an image representing the state of the back side of the print medium. Image processing methods.

4. 4. The image processing method according to claim 3, In the step (c), displaying a rendering image corresponding to how the print medium will appear in a three-dimensional virtual space as the preview image; When an instruction to change the position and orientation of the print medium in the virtual space is input via an input device operated by a user, the rendering image displayed on the display device is updated in response to the instruction. Image processing methods.

5. 5. The image processing method according to claim 4, The printing conditions include: This includes whether or not to use special inks that are different from process inks. Image processing methods.

6. 6. The image processing method according to claim 5, When the printing conditions specify the use of varnish ink as the special color ink, determining that in step (e), a layer formed by the process ink and a layer formed by the varnish ink are laminated on the printing medium in this order; In the printing conditions, when the use of an undercoat ink is specified as the special color ink and surface printing is specified as the type of printing, determining that in step (e), a layer formed by the undercoat ink and a layer formed by the process ink are laminated on the printing medium in this order; Image processing methods.

7. 7. The image processing method according to claim 6, the printing medium is made of a light-transmitting material, In the printing conditions, when the use of an undercoat ink is specified as the special color ink and reverse printing is specified as the type of printing, In the step (d), it is determined that a left-right flip process of the image is required; determining that in step (e), a layer formed by the process ink and a layer formed by the undercoat ink are laminated on the printing medium in this order; Image processing methods.

8. 8. The image processing method according to claim 7, When transfer printing is designated as the type of printing in the printing conditions, In the step (d), it is determined that a left-right flip process of the image needs to be performed. Image processing methods.

9. 9. The image processing method according to claim 8, In the printing conditions, when double-sided printing is specified as the type of printing, In the step (f), the print data relating to the front surface and the print data relating to the back surface are generated. Image processing methods.

10. 9. The image processing method according to claim 8, The type of printing is determined by one or a combination of a plurality of conditions including front printing, back printing, an observation surface on which the printed matter is expected to be observed, and the presence or absence of transfer printing. Image processing methods.

11. An image processing device, an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; a printing condition acquisition unit that acquires printing conditions including at least one of the type of printing medium, the type of printing, and the number of printing layers; a preview image generating unit that displays, on a display device, a preview image that represents a state in which the image is formed on the print medium according to the printing conditions; A print data generation unit, If left-right reversal processing is required based on the printing conditions, the left-right reversal processing of the image is performed; determining a position where the printing layer is to be arranged on the printing medium and, if there is a plurality of printing layers, a stacking order of the plurality of printing layers according to the printing conditions; outputting print data to a printing device, the print data specifying the type of the print medium, the placement position, the stacking order, and the image on which the left-right flipping process has been performed or the image on which the left-right flipping process has not been performed, in order to print the image on the print medium; a print data generation unit; An image processing device comprising:

12. 1. A printing system comprising: An image processing device, a printing device, and a display device, Equipped with The image processing device includes: an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data representing an image to be formed on a print medium; a printing condition acquisition unit that acquires printing conditions including at least one of the type of printing medium, the type of printing, and the number of printing layers; a preview image generating unit that displays, on the display device, a preview image that represents a state in which the image is formed on the print medium according to the printing conditions; A print data generation unit, If left-right reversal processing is required based on the printing conditions, the left-right reversal processing of the image is performed; determining a position where the printing layer is to be arranged on the printing medium and, if there is a plurality of printing layers, a stacking order of the plurality of printing layers according to the printing conditions; outputting print data to the printing device, the print data specifying the type of the print medium, the placement position, the stacking order, and the image on which the left-right flipping process has been performed or the image on which the left-right flipping process has not been performed, in order to print the image on the print medium; a print data generation unit; Equipped with The printing device receiving the print data; performing printing on the print medium based on the printing conditions included in the print data; Printing system.

13. An image processing program, acquiring image data representative of an image to be formed on a print medium; a function of acquiring printing conditions including at least one of the type of printing medium, the type of printing, and the number of printing layers; a function of displaying, on a display device, a preview image that represents a state in which the image is formed on the printing medium based on the printing conditions; a function of executing left-right reversal processing of the image when left-right reversal processing is required based on the printing conditions; a function of determining, in accordance with the printing conditions, the position at which the printing layer is to be arranged on the printing medium and, when there are multiple printing layers, the order in which the multiple printing layers are to be stacked; a function of outputting print data to a printing device, the print data specifying the type of the print medium, the placement position, the stacking order, and the image on which the left-right reversal process has been performed or the image on which the left-right reversal process has not been performed, in order to print the image on the print medium; An image processing program that enables a computer to achieve this.

Images