Data generation apparatus, recording apparatus, control method, and program

Abstract

To form a braille having a shape that suppresses difficulty in reading during reading.SOLUTION: A data generation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention which generates pixel data for recording a semi-three-dimensional image, includes: conversion means that converts the semi-three-dimensional data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using position information of a semi-three-dimensional region obtained from the semi-three-dimensional data representing the semi-three-dimensional image; and adjustment means that adjusts gradation values of the second-resolution pixels included in the semi-three-dimensional region represented by the pixel data, and determines gradation values of pixels in a central region including at least a center pixel and gradation values of pixels in an end region that is inside the semi-three-dimensional region and is a periphery around the central region, using information on height characteristics at pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a data generating device, a recording device, a control method, and a program, and more particularly to a technology for recording Braille. [Background technology]

[0002] A recording medium having a foam layer that foams when heated is known, and a three-dimensional image forming system that forms a three-dimensional image by foaming a predetermined area on the recording medium is also known. The three-dimensional image forming system records a corresponding grayscale image to foam the predetermined area (e.g., a Braille area where Braille characters are to be formed). The density of the grayscale image corresponds to the foam height. The three-dimensional image forming system forms a Braille image by controlling the image density of the grayscale image and recording the predetermined Braille area at a predetermined uniform foam height.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses that a density adjustment area for adjusting density is set in an area outside and surrounding the Braille area (referred to as the outer peripheral area), and the bubble height in the Braille area and the bubble height in the area outside the Braille are individually controlled. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-108128 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-155878 [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] "Study on easily identifiable braille shapes" (Mieko Hayashi, Marisa Kamoda, Hiroshi Fujimoto: Human Engineering Vol. 39, No. 3, 117-122, 2003) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Braille characters formed by the method of Patent Document 1 have a uniform cross-sectional height. However, the cross-sectional shape of typical Braille characters is an upwardly convex, rounded shape in which the cross-sectional height is lower in the area inside the Braille character area and around the center (called the peripheral inner area) compared to the center of the Braille character area. Furthermore, the diameter size of Braille characters formed by the method of Patent Document 1 becomes larger than specified due to the setting of a density adjustment area.

[0007] Here, Non-Patent Document 1 describes that the cross-sectional shape of Braille makes a significant difference in readability, and that for Braille experts, a bowl-shaped shape often gives the impression of being easy to read. Therefore, the sensation of touching Braille with a uniform cross-sectional height may be different from the sensation of touching regular Braille, which may lead to difficulty in reading the Braille.

[0008] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present disclosure aims to form Braille characters in a shape that reduces the difficulty in reading them. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One embodiment of the present invention is a data generation device that generates pixel data for recording a semi-stereoscopic image, and is characterized by having: a conversion means that converts the semi-stereoscopic data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using positional information of the semi-stereoscopic region obtained from the semi-stereoscopic data representing the semi-stereoscopic image; and an adjustment means that adjusts the gradation values ​​of second-resolution pixels included in the semi-stereoscopic region represented by the pixel data, the adjustment means using information on height characteristics at the pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels to determine the gradation values ​​of pixels in a central region including at least a central pixel, and the gradation values ​​of pixels in edge regions inside the semi-stereoscopic region and surrounding the central region. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to form Braille characters in a shape that is less difficult to read. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a recording device. [Figure 2] A diagram explaining the configuration of a recording system [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a recording head. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a recording medium used for forming a three-dimensional image. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram showing the relationship between the amount of ink containing a foaming-promoting component applied and the foam height. [Figure 6] Diagram showing the cross-sectional shape of one Braille dot [Figure 7] Functional block diagram explaining data processing for Braille data [Figure 8] A diagram explaining resolution conversion for one Braille dot [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the bubble height within one Braille dot and the gradation value according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Functional block diagram illustrating image processing executed when recording a color image. [Figure 11] Flowchart of processing according to the first embodiment [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the bubble height within one Braille dot and the gradation value according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the spread of ink dots according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be specifically and in detail described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention according to the claims. Furthermore, although the following embodiments describe multiple features, not all of the multiple features are necessarily essential to solving the problems of the invention, and some or all of the multiple features may be arbitrarily combined. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate identical or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted as a general rule.

[0013] <Configuration of recording device> FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a recording device 100 according to the present disclosure.

[0014] Each of the transport rollers 108, 109, 110, and 111 is paired with a transport roller (not shown) that sandwiches the recording medium 112, and transports the recording medium 112 in the Y direction in FIG.

[0015] The recording unit 101 is an inkjet type (hereinafter, inkjet will be abbreviated as IJ) and ejects and applies ink to a recording medium 112 transported in the Y direction. The recording head 102 ejects ink (referred to as F) containing a foam control component. The recording head 103 ejects black ink (referred to as K). The recording head 104 ejects cyan ink (referred to as C). The recording head 105 ejects magenta ink (referred to as M). The recording head 106 ejects yellow ink (referred to as Y). Each recording head extends in the X direction, which is perpendicular to the Y direction, and is equipped with a nozzle array consisting of nozzles that eject ink, and the nozzle array is configured with multiple nozzles arranged along the X direction (see Figure 3). In addition, in this disclosure, the print heads 102, 103, 104, 105, and 106 are arranged in the Y direction in this order, and the inks are printed on the print medium 112 in the order of F, K, C, M, and Y. Note that the K, C, M, and Y inks are collectively referred to as color inks (color materials).

[0016] The heating unit 107 heats the recording medium 112 and the ink applied to the recording medium 112. If the recording medium 112 is a recording medium containing foaming particles that foam when heated, foaming occurs in the area where the ink containing a foaming control component is applied by the heat applied by the heating unit 107. The mechanism of foaming caused by the ink containing a foaming control component will be described in detail later. Furthermore, the color ink applied to the recording medium 112 dries due to the heat applied by the heating unit 107 and becomes fixed to the recording medium 112, regardless of the type of recording medium 112.

[0017] <Recording system configuration> Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a recording system made up of the recording device 100 shown in Fig. 1 and a host device connected to the recording device 100. As shown in Fig. 2, this recording system is made up of the recording device 100 shown in Fig. 1 and a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a host PC) 200 that functions as a host device for the recording device 100.

[0018] The host PC 200 includes a CPU 201 , a RAM 202 , a HDD 203 , a data transfer interface (hereinafter, referred to as I / F) 204 , a keyboard / mouse (registered trademark) I / F 205 , and a display I / F 206 .

[0019] The CPU 201 executes predetermined processes in accordance with programs stored in the HDD 203 and RAM 202. The RAM 202 is a volatile storage device that temporarily stores programs and data. The HDD 203 is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs and data in the same way as the RAM 202. The data transfer I / F 204 controls the transmission and reception of data to and from the recording device 100. The data transmission and reception can be performed using a wired connection such as USB, IEEE 1394, or LAN, or a wireless connection such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or WiFi. The keyboard / mouse (registered trademark) I / F 205 is an interface that controls a UI (user interface) such as a keyboard or mouse, allowing the user to input information to the host PC 200. The display I / F 206 controls the display on a display (not shown).

[0020] On the other hand, the recording device 100 includes a CPU 211 , a RAM 212 , a ROM 213 , a data transfer interface I / F 214 , a head controller 215 , and an image processing accelerator 216 .

[0021] The CPU 211 executes the processes of each embodiment described below in accordance with programs stored in the ROM 213 and RAM 212. The RAM 212 is a volatile storage that temporarily stores programs and data. The ROM 213 is a non-volatile storage that stores table data and programs used in the processes of each embodiment described below. The data transfer I / F 214 controls data transmission and reception with the host PC 200.

[0022] The head controller 215 controls the recording operation of each of the recording heads 102 to 106 based on the recording data. Specifically, the head controller 215 is configured to read control parameters and recording data from a predetermined address in the RAM 212. In other words, when the CPU 211 writes the control parameters and recording data to a predetermined address in the RAM 212, processing by the head controller 215 is started, and the recording operation is performed by the recording heads.

[0023] The image processing accelerator 216 is configured with hardware and can execute image processing faster than the CPU 211. Specifically, the image processing accelerator 216 is configured to read parameters and data required for image processing from a predetermined address in the RAM 212. When the CPU 211 writes the parameters and data to the predetermined address in the RAM 212, the image processing accelerator 216 is started and the predetermined image processing is executed.

[0024] The image processing accelerator 216 is not necessarily a necessary component, and predetermined image processing may be performed solely by the CPU 211 depending on the specifications of the recording device.

[0025] <Recording head configuration> FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a print head 102. Specifically, FIG. 3A is a plan view showing a print head 102 according to the present disclosure. The print head 102 includes multiple print chips 301, each of which includes multiple nozzles 302. The print chips 301 include circuits for driving, for example, heater elements or piezoelectric elements, to eject ink from the nozzles 302. The configuration and arrangement of nozzles in each print chip is such that two nozzle rows are arranged in the Y direction, with multiple nozzles arranged in the X direction at a 600 dpi pitch in each of the two rows. The nozzles in the two rows are also arranged with a 1200 dpi offset in the X direction. Each print chip includes three sets (not shown) of two-row sets in the Y direction. As shown in FIG. 3A, multiple print chips are arranged in the X direction, with the nozzles in the same row between adjacent print chips arranged at 600 dpi. Each nozzle row in each print chip consists of 600 nozzles arranged in the X direction. In other words, one recording chip has a recording width of 1 inch in the X direction, where 1 inch is approximately 25.4 mm.

[0026] The foaming control ink is ejected from the nozzles 302 by an inkjet method and applied to the recording medium 112, thereby recording an image on the recording medium 112. The recording head 102 according to the present disclosure has 13 recording chips 301 in the X direction, and can therefore record an image 13 inches (approximately 330 mm) wide in the X direction on the recording medium 112. The recording resolution in the X direction is 1200 dpi, and the recording resolution in the Y direction is also 1200 dpi. By controlling the ejection frequency (the number of ejections per second) of each nozzle 302 to 10 kHz and controlling the recording medium 112 to be transported in the Y direction at approximately 8.33 inches / second, the recording resolution in the Y direction can be controlled to 1200 dpi. As described above, each recording chip has two nozzle arrays positioned at different positions in the Y direction as one set, and the nozzles of one nozzle array are arranged 1200 dpi apart in the X direction from the nozzles of the other nozzle array. The nozzles 302 in each row are arranged at a pitch of 600 dpi in the X direction. Three sets of these nozzles are provided in the Y direction, so ink can be applied up to three times (three shots) to the same pixel in the Y direction. The print heads 103, 104, 105, and 106 have the same configuration as the print head 102 in FIG. 3(a) described above. When applying F, K, C, M, and Y inks using the print heads, 2 pL is applied to the print medium 112 per shot. In addition, each of the F, C, M, Y, and K inks is adjusted to 2 ng per 2 pL. Since each ink can be applied up to three times to the same pixel at 1200 dpi, a maximum of 6 pL, or 6 ng, can be applied to the same pixel.

[0027] FIG. 3(b) is a plan view showing the configuration of a print head 102 according to the present disclosure, different from that shown in FIG. 3(a). The print head 102 includes a print chip 303, a print chip 304 whose position in the Y direction is different from that of print chip 303, and a print chip 305 whose position in the X direction is different from that of print chip 303 but the same as that of print chip 303. Each of print chips 303-305 includes multiple nozzles 306. The nozzles 306 in each print chip are configured as a set of two nozzle rows in the Y direction, and in each of the two rows, multiple nozzles are arranged in the X direction at a pitch of 600 dpi. The nozzles in the two rows are also arranged with a 1200 dpi offset in the X direction. Print chip 304 is arranged offset in the Y direction relative to print chip 303, and print chip 305 is arranged offset in the X direction relative to print chip 303. The printing chips 303 and 304 are arranged so that the rightmost 2-pixel x 2-column area of ​​the printing chip 303 overlaps the leftmost 2-pixel x 2-column area of ​​the printing chip 304 in the X direction. In addition, the printing chip 304 is arranged shifted to the + side in the Y direction so that it does not physically overlap with the printing chip 303.

[0028] Furthermore, the printing chips 304 and 305 are arranged so that the rightmost 2-pixel x 2-column area of ​​the printing chip 304 overlaps the leftmost 2-pixel x 2-column area of ​​the printing chip 305 in the X direction. Furthermore, the printing chip 305 is arranged shifted to the negative side in the Y direction so that it does not physically overlap with the printing chip 304.

[0029] Thereafter, the combination of the arrangement of the printing chip 304 relative to the printing chip 303 and the arrangement of the printing chip 305 relative to the printing chip 304 is repeated until the arrangement shown in Fig. 3(b) is achieved. The nozzles 306 that overlap in the X direction eject ink at an ejection frequency that is dispersed at a predetermined rate so as not to apply too much ink to the same area of ​​the printing medium 112.

[0030] 3A, the nozzles of adjacent print chips in the X direction do not overlap in the X direction, but they may be configured to overlap. In this case, however, the overlapping nozzles must distribute the ejection frequency at a predetermined rate so as not to deposit ink in the same area of ​​the print medium 112.

[0031] <Recording medium having a foam layer> Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic example of a recording medium used for forming a three-dimensional image according to the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 4, recording medium 400 has a substrate 401 and a foam layer 402 provided on substrate 401. Foam layer 402 contains foam particles 403 that expand when heated.

[0032] The substrate 401 functions as a support for supporting the foam layer 402. The type of substrate 401 is not particularly limited. Examples of the substrate 401 include paper made from ordinary natural pulp, kenaf paper, and plastic film sheets made from polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and the like. Other examples include so-called synthetic paper and nonwoven fabrics made from synthetic fibers, synthetic pulp, and synthetic resin films.

[0033] As shown in Fig. 4, foam layer 402 is a layer provided on at least one surface of substrate 401, and contains foamed particles 403 and binder resin 404. Foamed particles 403 are thermally foamable microcapsules having a capsule-shaped shell layer 405 containing a thermoplastic resin and a volatile material 406 encapsulated in shell layer 405. When heat is applied to foamed particles 403, the thermoplastic resin constituting shell layer 405 softens and volatile material 406 encapsulated in shell layer 405 vaporizes, increasing the volume. As a result, foamed particles 403 expand like a balloon.

[0034] Examples of thermoplastic resins contained in the shell layer include polystyrene, styrene-acrylic acid ester copolymers, polyamide resins, polyacrylic acid esters, polyvinylidene chloride, polyacrylonitrile, and polymethyl methacrylate. Further examples include vinylidene chloride-acrylonitrile, methacrylic acid ester-acrylic acid copolymers, vinylidene chloride-acrylic acid copolymers, and vinylidene chloride-acrylic acid ester copolymers.

[0035] Examples of volatile materials include: low-molecular-weight hydrocarbons such as ethane, ethylene, propane, propene, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane, isopentane, neopentane, n-hexane, heptane, and petroleum ether; chlorofluorocarbons such as CCl3F, CCl2F2, CClF3, and CClF2-CClF2; and tetraalkylsilanes such as tetramethylsilane, trimethylethylsilane, trimethylisopropylsilane, and trimethyl-n-propylsilane. However, the volatile material is preferably a hydrocarbon having a molecular weight of 120 or less. There is no particular lower limit on the molecular weight of the volatile material (hydrocarbon), but it is preferably 50 or more. The content of foamed particles in the foam layer is preferably 5% by mass or more and 95% by mass or less, based on the total mass of the foam layer.

[0036] The foam layer 402 contains a binder resin 404 to enhance adhesion to the substrate 401. The binder resin plays an important role in preventing the foam layer from peeling off from the substrate when the foam particles in the foam layer are expanded by heat. A water-insoluble resin is used as the binder resin. By including a water-insoluble resin in the binder resin, the binder resin is less likely to be dissolved by the water in the foaming-promoting liquid, and therefore, a decrease in adhesion between the foam layer and the substrate due to the foaming-promoting liquid can be prevented. Furthermore, for the same reason, even if an aqueous ink containing water is applied to the recording medium, a decrease in adhesion between the foam layer and the substrate can be prevented.

[0037] Here, the term "water-insoluble resin" refers to a resin in which 95% by mass or more remains when the resin is immersed in warm water at 80°C for 2 hours. The water-insoluble resin is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resins and urethane resins. Furthermore, the water-insoluble resin is more preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resins having no ester groups and urethane resins having no ester groups. The water-insoluble resin is preferably a non-water-absorbent resin. The content of the water-insoluble resin in the foam layer is preferably 10% by mass or more and 95% by mass or less, based on the total mass of the foam layer. Furthermore, the foam layer may contain a water-soluble resin together with the water-insoluble resin, as long as the effects of the present disclosure are achieved. Furthermore, the glass transition temperature of the binder resin is preferably -10°C or more and 30°C or less. By setting the glass transition temperature of the binder resin within the above range, it is possible to prevent the binder resin from interfering with the expansion of the expanded beads.

[0038] The mass ratio of expanded beads to binder resin is preferably expanded beads:binder resin = 5:95 to 90:10. By setting the mass ratio of expanded beads to binder resin within the above range, both the expandability of the expanded beads and the binding ability of the binder resin to the substrate can be improved. The foam layer can further contain components such as pigments, antioxidants, dyes, and surfactants, as long as the expandability is not impaired.

[0039] <Ink containing foam control component> As described above, in this disclosure, ink containing a foam control component is applied to the recording medium 112. The ink containing a foam control component is used as a foam promoting liquid for forming a three-dimensional image.

[0040] The foaming-promoting liquid contains a foaming-promoting component that lowers the foaming initiation temperature of the expanded beads 403. When the foaming-promoting liquid containing the foaming-promoting component is applied to the foam layer of the recording medium by a method such as ejection or application using an inkjet printer, it can soften the thermoplastic resin contained in the shell layer 405 of the expanded beads 403. As a result, it is presumed that the foaming initiation temperature and maximum foaming temperature of the expanded beads 403 can be shifted to lower temperatures.

[0041] The expansion-promoting component may be any compound capable of softening the thermoplastic resin contained in the shell layer 405 of the expanded beads 403 and having no hydroxyl groups, and may be appropriately selected depending on the type of thermoplastic resin. Examples of the expansion-promoting component include 2-pyrrolidone, dimethyl sulfoxide, N,N-dimethylformamide, and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone. The boiling point of the expansion-promoting component, which has no hydroxyl groups, is preferably higher than the temperature at which the foamed layer 402 is heated. Since the boiling point of this compound is higher than the temperature at which the foamed layer 402 is heated, this compound is less likely to vaporize even when the foamed layer 402 is heated, and can contribute to softening the thermoplastic resin of the shell layer 405 of the expanded beads 403. The content of the expansion-promoting component, which has no hydroxyl groups, is preferably 10% by mass or more and 70% by mass or less, based on the total mass of the expansion-promoting liquid.

[0042] The absolute value of the difference (|SP1-SP2|) between the solubility parameter (SP1) of the thermoplastic resin forming the shell layer 405 of the expanded particles (microcapsules) 403 and the solubility parameter (SP2) of the foaming-promoting component is preferably 3.5 or less. When the absolute value of the difference in solubility parameters is within the above numerical range, the foamability of the region of the foamed layer 402 to which the foaming-promoting liquid containing the foaming-promoting component is applied can be further improved.

[0043] Furthermore, the absolute value of the difference (|HSP1-HSP2|) between the Hansen solubility parameter (HSP1) of the thermoplastic resin forming the shell layer 405 of the expanded particles (microcapsules) 403 and the solubility parameter (HSP2) of the foaming-promoting component is preferably 20 or less. When the absolute value of the difference in Hansen solubility parameters is within the above-mentioned numerical range, the foamability of the region in the foam layer 402 to which the foaming-promoting liquid containing the foaming-promoting component is applied can be further improved.

[0044] The solubility parameters (SP values) of the thermoplastic resin and the foaming-promoting component forming the shell layer 405 are both values ​​derived (calculated) by calculation. In addition, the Hansen solubility parameters (HSP values) of the thermoplastic resin and the foaming-promoting component forming the shell layer are both actual values ​​measured and derived (calculated) by dynamic light scattering.

[0045] When the foam-promoting component is liquid at room temperature (25°C), the foam-promoting component itself may be used as the foam-promoting liquid. The foam-promoting liquid may further contain components other than the foam-promoting component (other components). For example, it is preferable to further contain a liquid component such as a solvent in order to improve the ejection stability of the foam-promoting liquid. Examples of the solvent include water and various water-soluble organic solvents. Deionized water (ion-exchanged water) is preferably used as the water. Examples of the water-soluble organic solvent include alcohols, glycols, glycol ethers, and nitrogen-containing compounds.

[0046] As components other than the liquid component, water-soluble organic compounds that are solid at a temperature of 25° C., such as urea or its derivatives, trimethylolpropane, and trimethylolethane, can be used. Furthermore, if necessary, various additives such as a pH adjuster, an antifoaming agent, a rust inhibitor, an antiseptic, an antifungal agent, an antioxidant, an antireducing agent, and a chelating agent may be contained in the foam-promoting liquid.

[0047] <Control of foam height> FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the amount of ink containing the foaming-promoting component applied to a recording medium having the foam layer and the foam height. The horizontal axis in FIG. 5 represents the amount of ink containing the foaming-promoting component applied, specifically, the amount applied per pixel at 1200 dpi. The vertical axis in FIG. 5 represents the foam height, specifically, the foam height when one pixel at 1200 dpi is heated by the heating unit 107 at a heating temperature of 95°C for a heating time of 15 seconds. As shown in FIG. 5, the foam height of a recording medium having a foam layer can be controlled by the amount of ink containing the foaming-promoting component applied.

[0048] <General Braille created by a Braille printer> Generally, the creation of Braille characters is realized by a Braille editor that generates Braille data and a Braille printer that records based on the Braille data generated by the Braille editor.

[0049] Known examples of braille editors include Nippon Telesoft's Multi Brallie Document Editor (MBDE) and Toshihiro Fujino's EDEL. Known examples of braille printers include Nippon Telesoft's DOG-Multi Super and DOG-Basic32. A braille printer creates braille by pressing a braille embossing device, which is a braille embossing device, against paper. One braille dot is created by one embossing by the braille printer. As with braille printers, braille editors, such as EDEL, describe one braille dot as a single object, and represent raised areas as black dots, as described in Patent Document 1. In other words, EDEL does not take into account the representation of one braille dot using multiple pixels (each pixel having a pixel value).

[0050] Fig. 6(a) shows the cross-sectional shape of a single Braille dot standardized by JIS T0921. Fig. 6(b) shows the cross-sectional shape of a common single Braille dot published on the web. (https: / / web.econ.keio.ac.jp / staff / nakanoy / article / braille / BR / chap3 / 3-2 / 3-2.html, Mr. Yasuhiro Kizuka, National Institute of Special Education) As shown in Fig. 6(a) and Fig. 6(b), the cross-sectional shape of a single standardized Braille dot and the cross-sectional shape of a common single Braille dot are not rectangular, respectively. When comparing the cross-sectional shape of the central region in the area of a single Braille dot (referred to as the Braille dot area) with the cross-sectional shape of the periphery of the central region in the Braille dot area, the height of the latter is lower than that of the former, and both the former and the latter are rounded and convex shapes. The roundness of the cross-sectional shape shown in Fig. 6(b) has some depression compared with the roundness of the cross-sectional shape shown in Fig. 6(a). Also, as shown in Fig. 6(a), for a single standardized Braille dot, the width of the area inside the Braille dot area (referred to as the inner area) is 1.3 - 1.7 mm, and the height of the central region is 0.3 - 0.5 mm. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 6(b), for a common single Braille dot, the width of the inner area is 1.4 - 1.5 mm, the width of the central region is 0.6 - 1.0 mm, and the height is 0.3 - 0.5 mm.

[0051] <Data Processing When Forming Braille Dots with an IJ Printer> Hereinafter, the data processing in the case of forming a single Braille dot by applying the ink containing a foaming promoting component described above to the recording medium having the foaming layer described above by the IJ printer according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0052] Fig. 7 is a functional block diagram for explaining the data processing for Braille dot data according to the present disclosure. A series of processes for the Braille dot data necessary to enable the formation of Braille dots by an IJ printer are executed by a Braille dot data analysis unit 701, a Braille dot data resolution conversion unit 702, and a Braille dot data pixel value adjustment unit 703.

[0053] The Braille data analysis unit 701, the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702, and the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 are realized in the host PC 200. Specifically, the CPU 201 of the host PC 200 functions as the Braille data analysis unit 701, the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702, and the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703. In more detail, the CPU 201 reads out a program stored in the HDD 203 or the ROM (not shown in FIG. 2) into the RAM 202 and executes the program, thereby realizing the Braille data analysis unit 701, the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702, and the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703.

[0054] The Braille data analysis unit 701 receives Braille data generated by the Braille editor described above and analyzes the received Braille data. Braille data is image data that renders a semi-three-dimensional image. A semi-three-dimensional object refers to an object such as a single Braille dot (see FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b)) that has height and is formed on a plane such as the recording medium 112. Note that image data of a semi-three-dimensional object is called semi-three-dimensional data.

[0055] Based on the results of analyzing the Braille data, Braille position data is generated for each Braille dot specified in the semi-3D data. Here, the Braille position data is generated as (x, y) coordinate data expressing the center position of each Braille dot in units of mm. Meanwhile, the Braille size data may be a predetermined size. Alternatively, the Braille size may be set based on the size described in the received Braille data, which is semi-3D data, or in accompanying data. Here, the Braille size is expressed in diameter. In the following, it is assumed that the Braille data analysis unit 701 has acquired position information with a center position (100 mm, 150 mm) and a diameter of 1.45 mm, and a specific example will be given of forming the Braille dot indicated by this position information.

[0056] The Braille data resolution conversion unit 702 converts the Braille data into pixel data of a pixel group consisting of multiple pixels corresponding to one Braille dot, using information acquired as a result of the analysis by the Braille data analysis unit 701, specifically, data on the center position and size of the Braille. Note that in this case, the Braille data is converted into pixel data of a pixel group with a resolution of 1200 dpi, which is the recording resolution of the recording head 102 in FIG. 3.

[0057] 8(a) and 8(b) are diagrams for explaining the processing executed by the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702. First, a description will be given with reference to FIG. 8(a).

[0058] The center pixel is calculated based on the center position of the Braille (100mm, 150mm). First, considering the x direction, the center corresponds to the 4724th pixel (=100mm÷25.4mm×1200dpi) after rounding off to the nearest whole number. Next, considering the y direction, the center corresponds to the 7087th pixel (=150mm÷25.4mm×1200dpi) after rounding off to the nearest whole number. Therefore, in this example, the center image is expressed as (4724, 7087).

[0059] Next, the number of pixels corresponding to the diameter of the Braille region (circular region) is calculated. In this disclosure, to simplify the calculation of the pixel group corresponding to one Braille dot relative to the center pixel position, the number of pixels corresponding to the diameter is calculated to be an odd number. In other words, since the diameter of one Braille dot is 1.45 mm, the number of pixels is calculated as 68.5 (= 1.45 mm ÷ 25.4 mm × 1200 dpi), and the closest odd number, 69 pixels, is assigned as the diameter. Then, 34 pixels, which is half of the 68 pixels obtained by subtracting one pixel from the center from the diameter pixel number of 69 pixels, is set as the radius pixel number.

[0060] Next, calculate the pixel group corresponding to one Braille point. Let an arbitrary pixel be (i, j), and calculate the distance r between the arbitrary pixel and the center pixel (4724, 7087). Regarding the distance r, distance r = (|i-4724| 2 +|j-7087| 2 ) 1 / 2If the distance r is less than or equal to the number of radius pixels 34, the pixel is determined to correspond to the central pixel (4724, 7087) as a single Braille dot. On the other hand, if the distance r is greater than the number of radius pixels 34, the pixel is determined not to correspond to the central pixel (4724, 7087) as a single Braille dot.

[0061] According to the above-described process, the resolution of the Braille data can be converted, and the semi-stereoscopic data can be converted into pixel data, as shown in Fig. 8(a). The resolution of the outer area of ​​each Braille dot can also be converted, and in this case, the resolution of the outer area is also converted to 1200 dpi.

[0062] The Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 adjusts the pixel value (gradation value) for each pixel of the pixel group corresponding to one Braille dot after resolution conversion by the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702. As explained using Fig. 5, the bubble height can be controlled by the amount of ink containing a foaming-promoting component applied. The Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 adjusts the gradation value for the pixel group (69 pixels in the diameter direction) after resolution conversion corresponding to one Braille dot shown in Fig. 8(a) using the relationship shown in Fig. 9, and sets the adjusted gradation value.

[0063] Figure 9(a) is a diagram showing, with solid lines, the predetermined bubble height for each pixel position of 69 pixels in the diameter direction of one Braille dot. The relationship shown by this solid line is called a bubble height table. Also in Figure 9(a), the gradation value for each pixel position, specifically the gradation value corresponding to the amount of ink containing a foaming-promoting component applied to control the predetermined bubble height, is shown with dashed lines. The relationship shown by this dashed line is called a gradation value table.

[0064] In FIG. 9(a), the pixel at pixel position 35 is the central pixel. The predetermined bubble height satisfies the JIS T0921 standard as shown in FIG. 6(a). As shown by the solid line in FIG. 9(a), the bubble height of the peripheral pixels of a single Braille dot is lower than the bubble height of the central pixel of the single Braille dot. Therefore, the single Braille dot based on the relationship in FIG. 9(a) has a rounded convex shape. Note that the "peripheral pixels of a single Braille dot" here refer to pixels in a region surrounding the central region including the central pixel of the Braille dot. They may also be referred to as "peripheral inner pixels" because they are included within the Braille region (69 pixels) of the single Braille dot (i.e., are inside this region). The heating conditions for the case shown in FIG. 9(a) are the same as those for the case shown in FIG. 5. That is, FIG. 9(a) shows the relationship between bubble height and gradation value for each pixel position under heating conditions of a heating temperature of 95°C and a heating time of 15 seconds. In this example, the pixel values ​​of each of the second resolution pixels shown in Figure 8(a) are adjusted; specifically, the gradation values ​​for each pixel position of the second resolution pixels are set according to the relationship in Figure 9(a).

[0065] Fig. 9(b) is a diagram showing, using dashed lines, the adjusted gradation values ​​corresponding to pixels relative to the distance (number of pixels) from the central pixel of one Braille point. For each pixel of the pixel group of one Braille point, the gradation value is adjusted according to the distance r from the central pixel, as shown by the dashed lines in Fig. 9(b). Also in Fig. 9(b), the dotted line indicates the first derivative of the gradation value in the direction from the peripheral pixels of one Braille point toward the central pixel, and the dotted line indicates the second derivative of the gradation value in the direction from the peripheral pixels of one Braille point toward the central pixel.

[0066] To achieve a rounded convex shape, the first derivative of the gradation value must be greater than or equal to 0 and the second derivative of the gradation value must be less than or equal to 0 in the direction from the peripheral pixels of a single Braille dot toward the central pixel. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9(a), as the gradation value increases, the bubble height also increases. Therefore, a rounded convex shape can be described as a shape in which the first derivative of the bubble height is greater than or equal to 0 and the second derivative of the bubble height is less than or equal to 0 in the direction from the peripheral pixels of a single Braille dot toward the central pixel. Here, the pixel of the second-resolution pixel data, in other words, the pixel included in the pixel group of the second resolution, located at the extreme edge of the range of the pixel group, is defined as the "edge pixel," and one or more pixels adjacent to this edge pixel are defined as "edge pixels." The gradation value adjustment described using FIG. 9(a) is performed on a pixel region of at least three or more consecutive edge pixels, including the closest pixel at one edge (the region including this edge pixel is defined as the (peripheral) edge region surrounding the central region). The same gradation value adjustment is also performed on the other end. As a result, in the direction from the peripheral pixels of one Braille dot toward the central pixel, the first derivative of the bubble height is greater than or equal to 0 and the second derivative of the bubble height is less than or equal to 0, resulting in a rounded convex shape.

[0067] Here, the table shown in FIG. 9(a) stores, as height characteristics, a first relationship as a correspondence relationship between pixel positions and foam heights, and a second relationship as a correspondence relationship between pixel positions and gradation values, and the gradation values ​​of the pixels in the semi-three-dimensional region are adjusted using the second relationship. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. It is sufficient that at least one of the first relationship and the second relationship is stored in the table, and that the final gradation value can be derived using the stored relationship. However, when using the first relationship stored in the table, a step of deriving the gradation value based on the foam height corresponding to the pixel position is required.

[0068] FIG. 8(b) is a diagram showing conversion from pixels of a first resolution corresponding to one Braille dot to a group of pixels of a second resolution. The pixels of the first resolution in FIG. 8(b) are obtained as a result of analyzing the received Braille data in the Braille data analysis unit 701 (see FIG. 7). In other words, while EDEL represents one Braille dot as one black dot as described above, the Braille data analysis unit 701 can be said to have performed processing to associate one Braille dot with a pixel of the first resolution in FIG. 8(b). Note that the first resolution in this example is approximately 17.5 (= 25.4 mm ÷ 1.45 m) dpi, since the diameter of one Braille dot, 1.45 mm, corresponds to one pixel.

[0069] The Braille data resolution conversion unit 702 converts the pixels of the first resolution into a pixel group of the second resolution, as shown in Fig. 8(b). In this example, the second resolution is 1200 dpi, so the number of pixels of the second resolution is 69 (=1200 dpi ÷ 17.5 dpi), which is the closest odd number to the number of pixels corresponding to 1.45 mm.

[0070] Whether or not the target pixel is a pixel of the pixel group at the second resolution corresponding to one Braille dot is determined by whether or not the distance r from the center pixel at the second resolution≦34, the number of radial pixels.

[0071] In this example, the number of pixels in the first resolution is one, resulting in a single gradation value. If this single gradation value were set for all pixels in the second resolution pixel group to form a single Braille dot, the resulting cross-sectional shape would not be as shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b). In other words, because the gradation value is the same across all pixels in the second resolution, the amount of ink containing the foaming-promoting component applied to the center pixel of the single Braille dot is equivalent to the amount of ink containing the foaming-promoting component applied to the inner peripheral pixels of the single Braille dot. As a result, the foam height for the center pixel of the single Braille dot is equivalent to the foam height for the inner peripheral pixels of the single Braille dot. Note that if the foaming-promoting component-containing ink applied to an area corresponding to one pixel at 1200 dpi on a recording medium having a foaming layer expands beyond the area of ​​one pixel, the foam heights may not be equivalent. Among the peripheral pixels of a single Braille dot, the number of neighboring pixels of the center pixel is greater than the number of neighboring pixels of a single edge pixel. Therefore, the amount of ink containing the foam-promoting component at the edge pixel may be less than the amount of ink containing the foam-promoting component at the center pixel, resulting in a lower foam height. However, even in this case, the cross-sectional shape shown in Figure 6(a) and (b) will not be obtained.

[0072] Therefore, the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 adjusts the gradation value of each pixel in the pixel group at the second resolution corresponding to one Braille point using the relationship in Fig. 9(a). In this way, the gradation value is adjusted so that the bubble height corresponding to the central pixel of one Braille point is higher than the bubble height corresponding to the inner peripheral pixels of one Braille point, resulting in a rounded convex shape.

[0073] The formed rounded convex shape is the shape of a semi-stereoscopic image (specifically, a Braille image consisting of multiple pixels) to be recorded on one side of the recording medium. Therefore, the above process described with reference to Figures 7 to 9 can be called a semi-stereoscopic image data generation process or a pixel data generation process. Furthermore, the host PC 200 that executes the semi-stereoscopic image data generation process can be called a semi-stereoscopic image data generation device or a pixel data generation process.

[0074] The relationship between the predetermined bubble height for a pixel position and the gradation value corresponding to the predetermined bubble height for achieving a rounded convex shape is not limited to that shown in FIG. 9 . Braille size and the distance between Braille characters vary from country to country. In other words, the appropriate predetermined bubble height for a pixel position and the gradation value corresponding to that bubble height differ from country to country. Therefore, multiple patterns (corresponding to multiple countries) of the relationship between the predetermined bubble height for a pixel position or the relationship between the pixel position and the gradation value corresponding to that bubble height are stored (i.e., registered) in advance, and one pattern to be applied can be selected from the multiple patterns. This allows the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 to select an appropriate pattern for each country, enabling it to accurately accommodate differences in Braille regulations between countries.

[0075] As described above, the above patterns may be a relationship of a predetermined gradation value corresponding to a predetermined bubble height relative to a pixel position, or another relationship may be provided as a pattern. For example, a relationship of a predetermined bubble height relative to a pixel position (referred to as a first relationship) may be registered in advance for each of a plurality of countries, and a relationship of a gradation value corresponding to the predetermined bubble height (referred to as a second relationship) may also be provided. In this case, the predetermined bubble height is determined based on the pixel position, and a gradation value is determined based on the predetermined bubble height using the second relationship.

[0076] Alternatively, for example, a relationship (referred to as a first relationship) between the pixel position and the predetermined foam height difference from a specific reference foam height may be registered in advance for each of multiple countries, and a relationship (referred to as a second relationship) between the gradation value and the predetermined foam height may also be stored. In this case, the difference in the predetermined foam height is determined based on the pixel position, and the predetermined foam height is determined by adding the difference to the specific reference foam height. Then, the gradation value is determined using the second relationship based on the determined predetermined foam height.

[0077] Also, in the above-described embodiment, as height characteristics, a plurality of patterns showing the relationship of gradation values corresponding to a predetermined foaming height with respect to pixel positions are registered in advance, and it has been described that one of the plurality of patterns is selected. However, one pattern may be registered in advance. Further, in order to be able to cope with cases where the Braille regulations are updated, cases where new Braille regulations are created, cases where the plurality of patterns do not have predetermined height characteristics, etc., it is conceivable to provide a function for registering new patterns. That is, as new pattern registration, a function for storing new height characteristics may be provided. By generating desired height characteristics and adding the generated height characteristics as new height characteristics, or overwriting the already registered height characteristics, or replacing the already registered height characteristics, predetermined height characteristics can be registered. This registration may be performed by the user or by a service technician.

[0078] <Image processing executed when recording a color image with an IJ printer> FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram for explaining image processing executed when recording a color image with the recording apparatus 100 according to the present disclosure. The image processing is executed by an input color conversion unit 1001, a color separation processing unit 1002, a gamma correction unit 1003, and a quantization unit 1004.

[0079] The input color conversion unit 1001, the color separation processing unit 1002, the gamma correction unit 1003, and the quantization unit 1004 are realized in the recording apparatus 100. Specifically, the CPU 211 of the recording apparatus 100 functions as the input color conversion unit 1001, the color separation processing unit 1002, the gamma correction unit 1003, and the quantization unit 1004. More specifically, the CPU 211 reads out and executes a program stored in the HDD (not shown in FIG. 2) or the ROM 213 to the RAM 212, thereby realizing the input color conversion unit 1001, the color separation processing unit 1002, the gamma correction unit 1003, and the quantization unit 1004.

[0080] The data received by the input color conversion unit 1001 has a resolution of 1200 dpi and is multi-valued data (referred to as RGB data) in which each pixel has a pixel value (multi-valued, 8 bits in this example) for three RGB channels. The input color conversion unit 1001 converts the RGB data so that it fits within the color reproduction range of the recording device 100, thereby obtaining multi-valued data (8 bits). The multi-valued data obtained by data conversion of this RGB data is referred to as R'G'B' data. Note that data conversion is performed using known methods such as matrix calculation processing and three-dimensional lookup table (3DLUT) processing. Here, a 3DLUT is a table that stores combinations of input RGB data and converted R'G'B' data. For example, in a 3DLUT, if each of the R, G, and B colors is held in 16 levels of 0, 17, 34, ..., 221, 238, and 255 out of the multi-value range of 0 to 255, it consists of 16 x 16 x 16 = 4096 combinations. If RGB data that matches the combination is input, the corresponding R'G'B' data from the table is output. If not, the R'G'B' data is derived (calculated) and output by a known tetrahedral interpolation calculation using the four nearest combinations.

[0081] The color separation processing unit 1002 separates the R'G'B' data into CMYK data, which are the colors used in the recording device 100, and converts it into CMYK multi-value data (8 bits). This multi-value data is referred to as CMYK data. Data conversion from the R'G'B' data to CMYK data is performed using known methods such as matrix calculation processing and 3DLUT processing.

[0082] The gamma correction unit 1003 performs gamma correction on the CMYK data. Specifically, the CMYK data is corrected so that the brightness of the image to be recorded on the recording medium 112 of the recording device 100 changes linearly, thereby obtaining multi-value data (12 bits). Here, the multi-value data obtained by gamma correction on the CMYK data is expressed as C'M'Y'K' data. Furthermore, the gamma correction is performed using a one-dimensional lookup table (1DLUT).

[0083] The quantization unit 1004 quantizes the C'M'Y'K' data. The data obtained by this quantization is referred to as quantized data. Quantization is performed using known dithering or error diffusion methods. Specifically, in this disclosure, the quantized data is quantized to four values ​​(0, 1, 2, 3) of 1200 dpi 1-pixel 2-bit data for each of the C, M, Y, and K inks. In the quantized data for each color, a pixel value of 0 indicates that no ink is ejected; a pixel value of 1 indicates that one ink is ejected; a pixel value of 2 indicates that two inks are ejected; and a pixel value of 3 indicates that three inks are ejected.

[0084] As will be described later, the data generated by the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 (see FIG. 7) is also quantized to four values ​​of 1200 dpi, 2-bit data per pixel by the quantization unit 1004. The correspondence between the value of the quantized data and the number of ink droplets is the same as for color ink.

[0085] [First embodiment] 11 is a flowchart of the process according to the first embodiment. The foaming control component of the F ink used in the recording apparatus 100 according to this embodiment is the foaming promotion component described above.

[0086] The processing of each step in the flowchart of Fig. 11 is executed by the recording system (see Fig. 2). When the processing of each step is executed on the host PC 200 side, the CPU 201 loads the program code stored in the HDD 203 (or ROM) into the RAM 202 and executes it. On the other hand, when the processing is executed on the recording device 100 instead of the host PC 200, the CPU 211 loads the program code stored in the ROM 213 (or HDD) into the RAM 212 and executes it.

[0087] In step S1101, Braille data generated by a Braille editor or color image data indicating a color image to be output is input to the host PC 200, and the CPU 201 of the host PC 200 acquires the input data. Note that, for simplicity, "step S~" will be abbreviated to "S~" hereinafter.

[0088] In S1102, the CPU 201 determines whether the data input in S1101 is Braille data. Whether the data is Braille data can be determined, for example, by whether the file format is an output file format of a Braille editor, such as BES format. If the determination result in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1103. On the other hand, if the determination result in this step is false (i.e., if the input data is RGB color image data), the process proceeds to S1106. In this case, color conversion processing is performed on the color image data in S1106. In this example, if the resolution of the RGB data is not 1200 dpi, it is converted to 1200 dpi before proceeding to S1106. This resolution conversion is performed using a known resizing method, such as nearest neighbor, bilinear, or bicubic.

[0089] In S1103, the CPU 201 functioning as the Braille data analysis unit 701 (see FIG. 7) analyzes the Braille data, which is semi-stereoscopic data. Through the analysis in this step, center position data and diameter data are generated or acquired as position information for each Braille dot.

[0090] In S1104, the CPU 201, functioning as the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702 (see FIG. 7), increases the resolution of the Braille data. Specifically, using the center position data and diameter data acquired in S1103, it converts pixels at a first resolution corresponding to one Braille dot into a group of pixels at a second resolution higher than the first resolution. This process is performed for each Braille dot. In this embodiment, the second resolution is 1200 dpi, and the resolution conversion is performed using the method described above with reference to FIG. 8. In other words, in S1105, one Braille dot is represented by a plurality of pixels at a second resolution higher than the first resolution of the pop-up area corresponding to the Braille dot, and the pixel data is recognized as a group of pixels corresponding to the pop-up area. Therefore, the Braille data resolution conversion unit 702 can also be called a pixel data recognition means.

[0091] In S1105, the CPU 201, functioning as the Braille data pixel value adjuster 703 (see FIG. 7), adjusts the gradation value for each pixel in the pixel group data at the second resolution corresponding to one Braille point and sets the adjusted gradation value for each pixel. The gradation value adjustment is performed using the method described with reference to FIG. 9. With this method, the gradation values ​​are adjusted so that the gradation values ​​of the pixels (more specifically, the edge pixels) surrounding the one Braille point are smaller than the center pixel of the one Braille point, i.e., so that the shape becomes rounded and convex. Because the gradation values ​​are determined by this adjustment, the Braille data pixel value adjuster 703 can also be called a Braille data determination unit. Furthermore, in the gradation value adjustment using FIG. 9, the gradation values ​​are adjusted to 8-bit values, which are then converted to 12-bit values ​​in preparation for the subsequent quantization (S1109). In other words, the 8-bit numerical value is multiplied by 16 to convert to a 12-bit numerical value. In this embodiment, the gradation values ​​outside the one Braille point are fixed at the minimum value of 0. This is because the foaming-promoting component is not applied to the area outside the single Braille dot in order to minimize foaming. After this step, the CPU 201 outputs the data acquired in S1105 to the recording device 100 via the data transfer I / F 204.

[0092] In S1106, the CPU 211 functioning as the input color conversion unit 1001 (see FIG. 10) converts the 8-bit RGB data into 8-bit R'G'B' data.

[0093] In S1107, the CPU 211 functioning as the color separation processing unit 1002 (see FIG. 10) converts the 8-bit R'G'B' data into 8-bit CMYK data.

[0094] In S1108, the CPU 211 functioning as the gamma correction unit 1003 (see FIG. 10) performs gamma correction on the CMYK data. Specifically, the 8-bit CMYK data is corrected to 12-bit C'M'Y'K' data.

[0095] In S1109, the CPU 211 functioning as the quantization unit 1004 (see FIG. 10) performs quantization. The quantization in this step will be specifically described below.

[0096] For example, assume that Braille data is input in S1101. Also, assume that prior to executing this step, the CPU 211 has acquired 12-bit Braille data at 1200 dpi (the result of S1105). In this case, the CPU 211 quantizes the 12-bit Braille data at 1200 dpi into 2-bit, 4-value quantized data for F ink, which is a foaming-promoting component ink that controls the foaming height of the Braille.

[0097] Also, for example, assume that color image data is input in S1101. And, assume that prior to executing this step, the CPU 211 has acquired 12-bit data of the color image at 1200 dpi (the result of S1108). In this case, the CPU 211 quantizes the 12-bit data of the color image at 1200 dpi into 2-bit 4-value quantized data for each ink of CMYK.

[0098] In S1110, the CPU 211 uses the recording unit 101 (see FIG. 1) to control the head to apply ink to the recording medium 112 based on the quantized data acquired in S1109. In this embodiment, a pixel value of 0 in the quantized data corresponds to 0 droplets of ink, a pixel value of 1 corresponds to 1 droplet of ink, a pixel value of 2 corresponds to 2 droplets of ink, and a pixel value of 3 corresponds to 3 droplets of ink, so that a maximum of 3 droplets of each ink are applied to each pixel of 1200 dpi.

[0099] In S1111, the CPU 211 uses the heating unit 107 (see FIG. 1) to perform heating control to heat the recording medium 112 to which the ink has been applied. The heating in this step causes bubbles to form in the F ink application area, resulting in a height corresponding to the amount of F ink applied, as shown in FIG. 5. Meanwhile, the CMYK inks are fixed to the recording medium 112 by the heating in this step.

[0100] As described above, according to this embodiment, data that can be recorded by the recording device 100 can be generated to form a rounded convex shape in which the foam height of the peripheral inner region including the peripheral inner pixels is lower than that of the central region including the central pixel of one Braille point.

[0101] [Second embodiment] In the first embodiment, a case where a foam-promoting component is used as the F ink containing a foam-controlling component is described, whereas in this embodiment, a case where a foam-inhibiting component is used as the F ink is described.

[0102] Patent Document 2 discloses the use of a foam-inhibiting component for a recording medium containing foam particles. It also discloses the use of vinyl chloride resin as a foaming agent in the recording medium. When the foam-inhibiting component is applied to this recording medium and then heated (dried), foaming of the foaming agent in the recording medium area where the F ink containing the foam-inhibiting component is applied is suppressed, thereby making it possible to control the foam height low. On the other hand, when the foam-inhibiting component is not applied, the foam height can be controlled high. In this way, the foam height can be controlled by the amount of foam-inhibiting component applied.

[0103] In this embodiment, a recording medium coated with vinyl chloride resin as a foaming agent is used as the recording medium 112. The F ink used contains a foaming-inhibiting component that inhibits foaming of the vinyl chloride resin. The F ink is applied to the recording medium 112 by the recording head 102, and the specific method for applying the F ink is the method already described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0104] <Processing of this embodiment> The general flow of the processing executed in this embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 11). The only difference is the processing in S1105, which will be described in detail below.

[0105] In this embodiment, the Braille data pixel value adjustment unit 703 (see FIG. 7) adjusts and sets the gradation value for each pixel of the pixel group at the second resolution corresponding to one Braille dot. This adjustment of the gradation value is performed using the relationship shown in FIG. 12. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the relationship shown in FIG. 12 is used instead of that shown in FIG. 9.

[0106] 12(a) is a diagram showing the relationship between the foam height (solid line) of a recording medium coated with vinyl chloride resin and the pixel gradation value (dashed line) for each of the 69 pixels in the diameter direction of one Braille dot. As shown in FIG. 12(a), the gradation values ​​are adjusted so that the gradation values ​​of the inner peripheral pixels of one Braille dot (specifically, the pixel at pixel position 1 and its neighboring pixels, and the pixel at pixel position 69 and its neighboring pixels) are higher than the central pixel of one Braille dot (the pixel at pixel position 35). As a result, a rounded convex shape is formed in which the foam height of the inner peripheral region including the inner peripheral pixels of one Braille dot is lower than that of the central region including the central pixel of one Braille dot.

[0107] Fig. 12(b) is a diagram showing, with dashed lines, the adjusted gradation values ​​corresponding to pixels relative to the distance (number of pixels) from the center pixel of one Braille point. For each pixel of the pixel group of one Braille point, the gradation value is adjusted according to the distance r from the center pixel, as shown by the dashed lines in Fig. 12(b). Also in Fig. 12(b), the first derivative of the gradation value in the direction from the peripheral pixels of one Braille point toward the center pixel is shown by a dotted line, and the second derivative is shown by a dotted line.

[0108] To achieve a rounded convex shape, the first derivative of the gradation value must be 0 or less and the second derivative of the gradation value must be 0 or more in the direction from the peripheral pixels of one Braille point toward the central pixel. Also, as shown in FIG. 12(a), as the gradation value decreases, the foam height increases. This relationship shows the opposite tendency to the foam-promoting component described in the first embodiment (see FIG. 9(a)). Therefore, a rounded convex shape can be rephrased as a shape in which the first derivative of the foam height is 0 or less and the second derivative of the foam height is 0 or more in the direction from the peripheral pixels of one Braille point toward the central pixel.

[0109] The gradation value after adjustment in S1105 is converted to 12 bits in preparation for the subsequent quantization (S1109). Note that in this embodiment, the gradation value outside one Braille dot is set to a fixed value, which is the maximum value. This is because a foaming suppression component is added to the outside of one Braille dot in order to minimize foaming.

[0110] By the process described above, it is possible to generate data for forming a rounded convex shape in which the foam height of the inner peripheral region including the inner peripheral pixels is lower than that of the central region including the central pixel of one Braille point. In this way, even when the foam height of the recording medium is controlled by the foam-suppressing component rather than the foam-promoting component, it is possible to obtain the same effect as in the first embodiment.

[0111] The relationship between the predetermined foam height for a pixel position and the gradation value corresponding to the predetermined foam height, which is used to create a rounded convex shape when a foam-inhibiting component is used, is not limited to that shown in FIG. 12 . Braille size and the distance between Braille characters vary by country. That is, the appropriate predetermined foam height for a pixel position and the gradation value corresponding to that foam height differ depending on the country. Therefore, multiple patterns (corresponding to multiple countries) of the relationship between the predetermined foam height for a pixel position and the gradation value corresponding to that foam height are pre-registered, and one pattern to be applied can be selected from the multiple patterns. This allows the appropriate pattern to be selected for each country, enabling high-precision responses to differences in Braille regulations between countries. A single pattern may be pre-selected and registered. Furthermore, users or service personnel may be able to add patterns, replace patterns, or overwrite patterns. This allows gradation values ​​to be determined using height characteristics different from those of pre-registered patterns.

[0112] [Third embodiment] In the first and second embodiments, no particular mention was made of overlapping between the bubble region and the region to which color ink is applied. In this embodiment, a process for overlapping these regions will be described.

[0113] Figure 13 is an image diagram showing the spread of ink dots when ink is applied to pixels in a bubble-forming area on a recording medium and to pixels surrounding the bubble-forming area. The amount of ink applied per ink dot is the same as in the above-described embodiment. In Figures 13(a) to 13(d), each of the 27 smallest rectangles represents the second resolution pixel described above, and the 27 pixels in Figures 13(a) to 13(d) correspond to the 27 pixels in the same area on the recording medium.

[0114] In this example, the bubble region is the three-pixel region shown by the diagonal lines in Figure 13(a). In Figure 13(b), the spread of ink dots when ink containing a foaming-promoting component is applied to foam the three shaded pixels is shown by a solid line with black circles, and the width of the spread is indicated by a solid arrow 1301. In Figure 13(d), the spread of ink dots when ink containing a foaming-inhibiting component is applied to foam the three shaded pixels is shown by a dotted line with black circles, and the width not reached by the ink dot spread is indicated by a dotted arrow 1303. Color ink is applied to the three shaded pixels to overlap the bubble region. In Figure 13(c), the spread of color ink dots is shown by a dashed line with black circles, and the width of the spread is indicated by a dashed arrow 1302.

[0115] As shown in Figures 13(b) to 13(d), the ink dots of the ink containing the foam-promoting component and the ink containing the foam-inhibiting component each spread more widely than the ink dots of the color ink. The ink containing the foam-promoting component and the ink containing the foam-inhibiting component must act on the foaming agent of the recording medium, so they have higher permeability than the color ink to facilitate penetration into the recording medium. Therefore, the ink dots spread as they permeate from the surface of the recording medium into the interior of the recording medium. On the other hand, the color ink has lower permeability than the ink containing the foam-controlling component to ensure that it remains near the surface of the recording medium for the purpose of improving color development. Therefore, the ink dots of the color ink spread less widely than the ink containing the foam-controlling component.

[0116] As shown in FIGS. 13(a) to 13(c), the width of the ink containing the foaming-promoting component, indicated by arrow 1301, is greater than the width of the color ink, indicated by arrow 1302, in terms of the width of the bubble region. Therefore, the width of the color ink-fixed region is narrower than the width of the bubble region that actually foams upon heating. Here, for simplicity's sake, the bubble region has been described as consisting of three pixels. However, even if the bubble region consists of more pixels, the width of the color ink-fixed region will be narrower than the width of the bubble region that actually foams upon heating. Therefore, a plain bubble region will be present around the color ink-fixed region like a border. Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to reduce the presence of the plain border, the amount of ink applied containing the foaming-promoting component is reduced in the pixel group that corresponds to the inside and edge of the bubble region.

[0117] One method for reducing the amount of ink applied that contains the foaming-promoting component is to reduce the gradation value of the pixel group corresponding to the edge. This method reduces the number of shots by quantization after reducing the gradation value, thereby reducing the amount of ink applied that contains the foaming-promoting component. The relationship between the gradation value that makes the border less noticeable is determined in advance through experiments, and a table that stores this relationship is prepared in advance. Then, when processing Braille data, this table is referenced to adjust the gradation value of the pixel group corresponding to the edge so that it is smaller.

[0118] Another method for reducing the amount of ink containing a foaming-accelerating component applied is to stochastically thin out the number of shots from pixel groups corresponding to the edges after quantization. This method reduces the number of shots and makes it possible to reduce the amount of ink containing a foaming-accelerating component applied. The amount of thinning out is also determined by referencing a thinning probability table that has been experimentally determined in advance.

[0119] By the above-described process, it is possible to reduce the uncolored bubble areas that exist around the fixed areas of the color ink.

[0120] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 13(a) and 13(d), the width of the bubble region affected by the ink containing the foam-inhibiting component, indicated by arrow 1303, is smaller than the width of the color ink, indicated by arrow 1302. Therefore, the width of the color ink fixed region is larger than the width of the bubble region that actually foamed due to heating. Note that, for simplicity's sake, the bubble region has been described as consisting of three pixels. However, even if the bubble region consists of more pixels, the width of the color ink fixed region is larger than the width of the bubble region that actually foamed due to heating. Therefore, there will be areas with low foam height in the color ink fixed region. Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to reduce the areas with low foam height, the amount of ink containing the foam-inhibiting component applied is reduced in the pixel group outside the bubble region and adjacent to the bubble region.

[0121] One method for reducing the amount of ink containing a foam-inhibiting component applied is to reduce the gradation value of the corresponding pixel group. This method reduces the number of bursts through quantization after reducing the gradation value, thereby reducing the amount of ink containing a foam-inhibiting component applied. The relationship between the gradation value for reducing areas with low foam height is investigated in advance through experiments, and a table containing this relationship is prepared in advance. Then, when processing Braille data, this table is referenced to adjust the gradation value of the corresponding pixel group so that it is reduced.

[0122] Another method for reducing the amount of ink containing a foam-inhibiting component applied is to stochastically thin out the number of shots from the corresponding pixel group after quantization. This method reduces the number of shots and makes it possible to reduce the amount of ink containing a foam-inhibiting component applied. The amount of thinning out is also determined by referencing a thinning probability table that has been experimentally determined in advance.

[0123] By the above-described process, it is possible to reduce the presence of areas with low bubble height in the fixed area of ​​the color ink.

[0124] Furthermore, the actual expansion width of the foaming region compared to the expansion width in the data (3 pixels in this example) is larger than the 3-pixel width in the data when using ink containing a foaming-promoting component, as shown by arrow 1301 in FIG. 13(b). Furthermore, when using ink containing a foaming-inhibiting component, the actual expansion width is smaller than the 3-pixel width in the data, as shown by arrow 1303 in FIG. 13(d). Thus, even when color inks are not overlapped, a difference in size occurs between the foaming region in the data and the actual foamed region. To reduce this difference, the amount of ink containing a foaming-promoting component or the amount of ink containing a foaming-inhibiting component may be reduced, even when color inks are not overlapping. In the case of ink containing a foaming-promoting component, the amount of ink applied to pixels inside and at the edges of the foaming region is reduced. In the case of ink containing a foaming-inhibiting component, the amount of ink applied to pixels outside the foaming region and adjacent to the foaming region is reduced. This reduces the difference between the size of the foaming region in the data and the size of the actual foamed region.

[0125] [Other embodiments] In the first and second embodiments, it was explained that the gradation value is adjusted for the resolution-converted pixels inside a semi-three-dimensional image area such as a single Braille dot. Also, in the first embodiment using a foaming-promoting component, it was explained that the gradation value is the minimum value outside the semi-three-dimensional image area. Furthermore, in the second embodiment using a foaming-suppressing component, it was explained that the gradation value is the maximum value outside the semi-three-dimensional image area.

[0126] The gradation values ​​outside the semi-stereoscopic image area are not limited to fixed values ​​such as the minimum and maximum values ​​described above, and may be other values. For example, if it is desired to achieve an arbitrary height outside the semi-stereoscopic image area, the gradation values ​​may be controlled to an amount corresponding to the arbitrary height. However, since the semi-stereoscopic image area is convex upward from its outside, when a foam-promoting component is used, it is preferable that the gradation values ​​outside the image area are smaller than the gradation values ​​of the semi-stereoscopic image area. When a foam-inhibiting component is used, it is preferable that the gradation values ​​outside the semi-stereoscopic image area are larger than the gradation values ​​of the semi-stereoscopic image area.

[0127] Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments, the host PC 200 processes Braille data and the recording device 100 processes color images, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. The recording device 100 may process Braille data and the host PC 200 may process color images. The functional modules described in FIGS. 7 and 10 may be implemented in the host PC 200 or in the recording device 100. The key is that the data quantized in S1109 of FIG. 11 must be in the recording device 100. From this perspective, the host PC 200 and the recording device 100 according to the present disclosure may each be referred to as a data generating device for generating pixel data.

[0128] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0129] [Technical Features of the Disclosure] The present disclosure includes the following configurations.

[0130] (Configuration 1) A data generation device for generating pixel data for recording a semi-stereoscopic image, comprising: a conversion means for converting the semi-stereoscopic data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using positional information of a semi-stereoscopic region obtained from the semi-stereoscopic data representing the semi-stereoscopic image; and an adjustment means for adjusting the gradation values ​​of second-resolution pixels included in the semi-stereoscopic region represented by the pixel data, the adjustment means using information on height characteristics at the pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels to determine the gradation values ​​of pixels in a central region including at least a central pixel, and the gradation values ​​of pixels in edge regions inside the semi-stereoscopic region and surrounding the central region. (Configuration 2) The data generating device according to Configuration 1, further comprising a storage means for storing information on the height characteristics, the information on the height characteristics being a gradation value table showing the correspondence between the pixel positions of the second resolution pixels and gradation values ​​associated with the foaming height. (Configuration 3) A plurality of patterns are stored as the height characteristics, and the adjustment means uses one selected from the plurality of patterns. 3. The data generating device according to configuration 1 or 2. (Configuration 4) The data generating device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, further comprising a registration function for registering a new pattern of the height characteristics. (Configuration 5) The data generating device according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the second resolution is higher than the first resolution. (Configuration 6) A data generating device described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that, through adjustment by the adjustment means, the gradation value of the pixel in the central region becomes a first value corresponding to a predetermined first height, and the gradation value in the edge region becomes a second value corresponding to a second height lower than the first height. (Configuration 7) The data generating device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that in a direction from the edge of the semi-three-dimensional region toward the center, a first derivative value of the gradation value is 0 or more, and a second derivative value of the gradation value is 0 or less. (Configuration 8) The data generating device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that, in a direction from the edge of the semi-three-dimensional region toward the center, a first derivative value of the gradation value is 0 or less, and a second derivative value of the gradation value is 0 or more. (Configuration 9) A data generation device described in any one of configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that when the number of pixels of the second resolution pixels included in the semi-three-dimensional region is 69, the end region is a region of end pixels of three or more consecutive pixels including the endmost pixel among the second resolution pixels. (Configuration 10) The data generating device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, further comprising output means for outputting pixel data adjusted by the adjustment means. (Configuration 11) A recording device comprising: a recording head for recording an image based on data output by the data generating device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10 onto a recording medium having a foam layer containing foam particles that expand when heated, the recording head ejecting color ink and a foam control component-containing ink that contains a foam control component that controls the foamability of the foam particles; a heating means for heating the recording medium recorded by the recording head; and a control means. (Configuration 12) The recording device according to Configuration 11, wherein the ink containing a foaming control component is an ink containing a foaming promoting component that promotes the foaming properties of the foam particles. (Configuration 13) The recording device according to configuration 11 or 12, wherein the adjusting means adjusts the gradation value outside the semi-three-dimensional region to a value smaller than the gradation value inside the semi-three-dimensional region. (Configuration 14) The recording device according to any one of configurations 11 to 13, wherein the adjusting means sets the gradation value outside the semi-stereoscopic region to a fixed value that is the minimum value. (Configuration 15) A recording device according to any one of configurations 11 to 14, characterized in that when the color ink is applied to a foaming region that is caused to foam by applying the ink containing a foaming-promoting component, the control means reduces the amount of the ink containing a foaming-promoting component applied to a pixel group that corresponds to the inside and edge of the foaming region. (Configuration 16) The recording device according to any one of Configurations 11 to 15, wherein the ink containing a foam control component is an ink containing a foam inhibiting component that inhibits the foaming properties of the foam particles. (Configuration 17) The recording device according to any one of configurations 11 to 16, wherein the adjustment means adjusts the gradation value outside the semi-three-dimensional region to a value greater than the gradation value inside the semi-three-dimensional region. (Configuration 18) The recording device according to any one of configurations 11 to 17, wherein the adjustment means sets the gradation value of the second resolution pixel outside the semi-stereoscopic region to a fixed value that is the maximum value. (Configuration 19) A recording device according to any one of Configurations 11 to 18, characterized in that when the color ink is applied to a foaming region that is caused to foam by applying the foaming-inhibiting component-containing ink, the control means reduces the amount of the foaming-inhibiting component-containing ink applied to a pixel group adjacent to the foaming region. (Configuration 20) The recording device according to any one of configurations 11 to 19, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the semi-stereoscopic image recorded by the recording head is a rounded convex shape. (Configuration 21) The recording device according to any one of configurations 11 to 20, wherein the semi-stereoscopic image is a Braille image. (Control method) A control method for a data generating device that generates pixel data for recording a semi-stereoscopic image, the control method comprising: a conversion step of converting the semi-stereoscopic data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using positional information of the semi-stereoscopic area obtained from the semi-stereoscopic data representing the semi-stereoscopic image; and an adjustment step of adjusting the gradation values ​​of second-resolution pixels included in the semi-stereoscopic area represented by the pixel data, the adjustment step using information on height characteristics at the pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels to determine the gradation values ​​of pixels in a central area including at least a central pixel, and the gradation values ​​of pixels in edge areas inside the semi-stereoscopic area and surrounding the central area. (Program) A program for causing a computer to execute a control method for a data generating device that generates pixel data for recording a semi-stereoscopic image, the control method comprising: a conversion step of converting the semi-stereoscopic data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using positional information of the semi-stereoscopic area obtained from the semi-stereoscopic data representing the semi-stereoscopic image; and an adjustment step of adjusting the gradation values ​​of second-resolution pixels included in the semi-stereoscopic area represented by the pixel data, the adjustment step using information on height characteristics at the pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels to determine the gradation values ​​of pixels in a central area including at least a central pixel and the gradation values ​​of pixels in edge areas inside the semi-stereoscopic area and surrounding the central area. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 100 Recording device 702 Braille data resolution conversion unit 703 Braille data pixel value adjustment unit

Claims

1. A data generating device for generating pixel data for recording a semi-stereoscopic image, comprising: a conversion means for converting the semi-stereoscopic data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using position information of a semi-stereoscopic region obtained from the semi-stereoscopic data representing the semi-stereoscopic image; an adjustment means for adjusting the gradation values ​​of second-resolution pixels included in the semi-three-dimensional region represented by the pixel data, the adjustment means using information on height characteristics at pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels to determine gradation values ​​of pixels in a central region including at least a central pixel and gradation values ​​of pixels in edge regions that are inside the semi-three-dimensional region and around the central region; A data generating device comprising:

2. Further, the method has a storage means for storing information on the height characteristics, the information on the height characteristics is a gradation value table indicating a correspondence relationship between pixel positions of the second resolution pixels and gradation values ​​associated with foaming heights; 2. The data generating device according to claim 1.

3. A plurality of patterns are stored as the height characteristics, the adjustment means uses one selected from the plurality of patterns; 3. The data generating device according to claim 2.

4. a registration function for registering a new pattern of the height characteristics; 4. The data generating device according to claim 3.

5. The second resolution is higher than the first resolution.

3. The data generating device according to claim 2.

6. As a result of the adjustment by the adjusting means, the gradation value of the pixel in the central region becomes a first value corresponding to a predetermined first height, and the gradation value in the edge region becomes a second value corresponding to a second height lower than the first height.

6. The data generating device according to claim 5.

7. a first derivative of the gradation value is equal to or greater than 0 and a second derivative of the gradation value is equal to or less than 0 in a direction from an end portion of the semi-solid region toward the center thereof; 7. The data generating device according to claim 6.

8. a first derivative of the gradation value is equal to or less than 0 and a second derivative of the gradation value is equal to or greater than 0 in a direction from an end portion of the semi-solid region toward the center thereof; 7. The data generating device according to claim 6.

9. When the number of second resolution pixels included in the semi-stereoscopic region is 69, the edge region is a region of three or more consecutive edge pixels including the edgemost pixel among the second resolution pixels.

7. The data generating device according to claim 6.

10. further comprising an output unit for outputting the pixel data adjusted by the adjustment unit; 3. The data generating device according to claim 2.

11. a recording head for recording an image based on data output by the data generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 on a recording medium having a foam layer containing foam particles that expand when heated, the recording head ejecting color inks and a foam control component-containing ink that contains a foam control component that controls the foaming properties of the foam particles; a heating means for heating the recording medium on which the recording has been performed by the recording head; a control means; A recording device having:

12. The foam control component-containing ink is an ink containing a foam promoting component that promotes the foaming properties of the foamed particles.

12. The recording apparatus according to claim 11.

13. the adjusting means adjusts the gradation value outside the semi-three-dimensional region to a value smaller than the gradation value inside the semi-three-dimensional region.

13. The recording apparatus according to claim 12.

14. the adjusting means sets the gradation value outside the semi-three-dimensional area to a fixed value that is the minimum value.

14. The recording apparatus according to claim 13.

15. When the color ink is applied to a foaming region where foaming is caused by applying the foaming-accelerating component-containing ink, the control means reduces the amount of the foaming-accelerating component-containing ink applied to a pixel group that corresponds to an inner side and an end of the foaming region.

15. The recording apparatus according to claim 14.

16. The foam control component-containing ink is an ink containing a foam suppressing component that suppresses the foaming properties of the foamed particles.

12. The recording apparatus according to claim 11.

17. the adjusting means adjusts the gradation value outside the semi-three-dimensional region to a value greater than the gradation value inside the semi-three-dimensional region.

17. The recording apparatus according to claim 16.

18. the adjusting means sets the gradation values ​​of the second resolution pixels outside the semi-three-dimensional region to a fixed value that is the maximum value.

18. The recording apparatus according to claim 17.

19. when the color ink is applied to a foaming region where foaming is caused by applying the foaming inhibiting component-containing ink, the control means reduces the amount of the foaming inhibiting component-containing ink applied to a pixel group adjacent to the foaming region; 20. The recording apparatus according to claim 18,

20. a cross-sectional shape of the semi-stereoscopic image recorded by the recording head is a rounded convex shape; 12. The recording apparatus according to claim 11.

21. The semi-stereoscopic image is a Braille image.

21. The recording apparatus according to claim 20.

22. A method for controlling a data generating device that generates pixel data for recording a semi-stereoscopic image, comprising: a conversion step of converting the semi-stereoscopic data of a first resolution into pixel data of a second resolution using position information of a semi-stereoscopic region obtained from the semi-stereoscopic data representing the semi-stereoscopic image; an adjustment step of adjusting gradation values ​​of second-resolution pixels included in the semi-three-dimensional region represented by the pixel data, the adjustment step using information on height characteristics at pixel positions of the second-resolution pixels to determine gradation values ​​of pixels in a central region including at least a central pixel and gradation values ​​of pixels in edge regions inside the semi-three-dimensional region and around the central region; A control method comprising:

23. A program for causing a computer to execute the method according to claim 22.

Images