Information processing device, image forming system, and color conversion table creation method and program

Abstract

In some cases, the original data contains objects set in multiple color spaces. In such cases, a color conversion table must be created to match the colors of each object in the original data. [Solution] An information processing device that performs color matching based on original data and scanned data accepts input of original data and scanned data, aligns the original data and scanned data, and creates a color conversion table for color matching for at least one color space of an object included in the original data based on the aligned original data and scanned data.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to color matching of document data having objects in a plurality of color spaces, and more particularly to an information processing apparatus, an image forming system, and a method and program for creating a color conversion table. [Background technology]

[0002] To achieve the same color reproduction as a previously printed color sample, one method of achieving color matching is to adjust the color quality of the image forming device or change the colors of the original data itself. Another method achieves color matching by creating a color conversion table that defines print target values, i.e., what colors should be produced based on the signal values ​​of the original data, and then creating a color profile based on that color conversion table. To obtain the print target values, a color sample is scanned using a color measurement device or scanner to measure or scan the color sample, obtaining scan data (hereinafter referred to as color sample scan data). The print target values ​​can be obtained by color converting the signal values ​​of the color sample scan data into device-independent signal values ​​using a scanner profile that defines the scanner's characteristics. By printing the original data using a color profile designed to achieve color matching (hereinafter referred to as a color matching color profile), users can achieve the same color reproduction as the color sample.

[0003] One data format for manuscript data is PDF (Portable Document Format). PDF standards are defined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), one of which is PDF / X-4. PDF / X-4 is the mainstream format for submitting manuscript data for commercial printing. One of the features of PDF / X-4 is its ability to mix objects with signal values ​​from multiple different color spaces, such as C (Cyan) M (Magento) Y (Yellow) K (Black) and R (Red) G (Green) B (Blue).

[0004] An example of a method for achieving the same color reproduction as a color sample from original data containing objects with signal values ​​in multiple different color spaces, i.e., multiple objects whose colors are expressed in different color systems, is described in, for example, Patent Document 1. In Patent Document 1, it is first determined whether the original data contains a first region to which a first color conversion parameter is set and a second region to which a second color conversion parameter is set. Next, by setting color conversion settings when printing the original data based on the determination result, it becomes possible to print original data containing objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces with the same color reproduction as a color sample. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-57736 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, conventional methods for creating color conversion tables for printing with the same color reproduction as a color sample do not determine whether the original data contains objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces. Therefore, it is not possible to determine which color space objects exist in the original data and the color sample scan data. As a result, it is not possible to associate the signal values ​​of the original data with the print target values ​​for each color space, making it impossible to create a color conversion table for each color space.

[0007] Furthermore, in Patent Document 1, color conversion settings are made when printing original data, but it is not possible to create a color conversion table for each color space by associating the image areas of the color sample and the original data.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a method for creating a color conversion table for each color space with high accuracy to reproduce colors identical to those of a color sample when original data contains objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus that performs color matching based on document data and scan data, comprising: an input receiving means for receiving input of manuscript data and input of scan data; a positioning unit for performing positioning between the document data and the scan data; and a creating means for creating a color conversion table for color matching for at least one color space of an object included in the original data based on the aligned original data and the scanned data. An information processing device characterized by the above features is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the invention of the present disclosure, even if the original data has objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces, a color conversion table can be created with high accuracy for each color space to print the original data with the same color reproduction as the color sample. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a client computer and an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a client computer and an image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the software configuration of a client computer and an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing manuscript data and color sample scan data. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing object information and a visible region. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing object-separated image data. [Figure 7A] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an extracted signal value table and a color conversion table. [Figure 7B] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an extracted signal value table and a color conversion table. [Figure 8A] 10 is a flowchart for creating a color conversion table for each color space. [Figure 8B] 10 is a flowchart for creating a color conversion table for each color space. [Figure 9A] This is a UI diagram for creating a color conversion table for each color space. [Figure 9B] This is a UI diagram for creating a color conversion table for each color space. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart for extracting signal values ​​for each color space. [Figure 11] 5 is a diagram showing manuscript data and color sample scan data different from those in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 12] 3A to 3C are diagrams showing object information, an extracted signal value table, and a color conversion table. [Figure 13A] 10 is a flowchart for selecting a color space and creating a color conversion table. [Figure 13B] 10 is a flowchart for selecting a color space and creating a color conversion table. [Figure 14] This is a UI diagram for selecting a color space and creating a color conversion table. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart for extracting signal values ​​for each selected color space. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an extracted signal value table for each selected color space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0013] First Embodiment ●System configuration FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an image forming system including a client computer and an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. A client computer 0101, which is an information processing apparatus, is connected to an image forming apparatus 0102 on the same network via a network 0110. The client computer 0101 determines whether the original data contains objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces and creates a color conversion table for each color space based on the original data and color sample scan data. That is, a color conversion table is created for at least one color space that identifies the signal values ​​of objects included in the original data. When creating the color conversion table for each color space, the client computer 0101 requests data from the image forming apparatus 0102. Specifically, the client computer 0101 requests color profile information from the image forming apparatus 0102 via the network 0110 based on the configured information. This process is executed by a control unit, described later in FIG. 3.

[0014] The image forming apparatus 0102 includes a user interface (UI) panel 0103, paper feed decks 0104 and 0105, and a scanner (or image scanner) 0106. An option 0107 consisting of three paper feed stages is also connected to the image forming apparatus 0102. The image forming apparatus 0102 is, for example, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The UI panel 0103 is, for example, a user interface equipped with a capacitive touch panel. The scanner 0106 has a platen on which printed materials are placed, and is capable of scanning printed materials placed thereon using a sensor and managing the scanned data.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 0102 further includes a paper output device 0108. The paper output device 0108 is connected to the image forming apparatus 0102 via a cable 0109. The paper output device 0108 further includes several paper output trays, and is capable of stacking the results printed by the image forming apparatus 0102.

[0016] A print job is generated by a client computer 0101 and sent to an image forming apparatus 0102 via a network 0110, and the image forming apparatus 0102 performs processing to print on paper. There may be more than one image forming apparatus 0102 on the network 0110.

[0017] The connection between the client computer 0101 and the image forming apparatus 0102 shown in this embodiment is merely an example, and it goes without saying that there are various other connection configurations besides those shown in this embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the client computer 0101 and the image forming apparatus 0102 according to this embodiment.

[0019] Client computer The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 0201 controls and performs calculations in each section of the client computer 0101 via a system bus 0207. The CPU 0201 executes programs stored in a memory 0203 and loaded into a RAM (Random Access Memory) 0202. The programs stored in the memory 0203 include programs for implementing the functional blocks shown in FIG. 3 and for implementing the procedures of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, 10, 13A, 13B, 15, etc. A program is composed of instructions, and the CPU 0201 executes the instructions included in the program to implement the programmed functions. The RAM 0202 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0201 and is used as a work area for the CPU 0201 or other temporary data storage areas.

[0020] The storage unit 0203 also functions as a temporary storage area and a work memory when the client computer is operating.

[0021] A network interface (hereinafter referred to as NW I / F) 0204 is connected to an NW I / F 0211 of the image forming apparatus 0102 on the network via the network 0110 , and controls communication between the client computer 0101 and the image forming apparatus 0102 .

[0022] The display unit 0205 is a hardware component, and is a user interface for visually displaying information in the client computer 0101. The display unit 0205 is, for example, a monitor display.

[0023] The input unit 0206 is a hardware component, and is a user interface for inputting data to the client computer 0101. For example, the input unit 0206 is a keyboard, a pointing device, etc. Depending on the form of the input unit 0206, it may be a touch panel integrated with the display unit 0205.

[0024] Image forming equipment The CPU 0208 controls and performs calculations in each unit in the image forming apparatus 0102 via a system bus 0219. The CPU 0208 executes programs stored in a storage unit 0210 and loaded into a RAM 0209.

[0025] The RAM 0209 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0208, and is used as a work area or other temporary data storage area for the CPU 0208. The storage unit 0210 also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the image forming apparatus is operating.

[0026] The NW I / F 0211 is connected to the NW I / F 0204 of the client computer 0101 via a cable 0110 , and controls communication between the client computer 0101 and the image forming apparatus 0102 .

[0027] The scanner 0212 is a hardware configuration corresponding to the scanner 0106, and uses a sensor to scan the surface of a printed material or the like, making it possible to handle the image formed thereon as scan data (image data). The scanner 0212 may be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF), a mechanism that automatically transports printed materials to a platen for scanning, or may be equipped with only a platen for reading printed materials.

[0028] The UI panel 0213 is a hardware configuration corresponding to the UI panel 0103, and is a user interface for performing overall operations of the image forming apparatus 0102. In this embodiment, the UI panel 0212 is equipped with a capacitive touch panel.

[0029] The paper feed deck I / F 0214 controls communication with and control of the paper feed deck 0215. The paper feed deck 0215 is a general term for the hardware configuration corresponding to the paper feed decks 0104 and 0105 and the option deck 0107. The engine I / F 0216 controls communication with and control of the printer engine 0217.

[0030] The accessory I / F 0218 is connected to the accessory I / F 0224 via a cable 0109. That is, the image forming apparatus 0102 communicates with the paper discharge apparatus 0108 via the accessory I / Fs 0218 and 0224.

[0031] ●Paper ejection device The CPU 0220 controls and performs calculations in each section of the paper discharge device 0108 via a system bus 0225 , and also executes programs stored in the storage section 0222 and loaded into the RAM 0221 .

[0032] The RAM 0221 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0220, and is used as a work area for the CPU 0220 or as other temporary data storage areas.

[0033] The storage unit 0222 also functions as a temporary storage area and a work memory when the paper ejection device is operating.

[0034] The paper discharge unit 0223 is responsible for monitoring and controlling the paper discharge operation onto the paper discharge trays provided in the paper discharge device 0108 and the loading status of each tray.

[0035] The accessory I / F 0224 is connected to the accessory I / F 0218 via the cable 0109. That is, the paper discharge device 0108 communicates with the image forming device 0102 via the accessory I / Fs 0224 and 0218.

[0036] ●Software configuration 3 is a software block diagram showing the connection system of the control units of the client computer 0101, the image forming apparatus 0102, and the paper discharge device 0108. Note that some of the hardware blocks are also included.

[0037] The client computer 0101 includes a data management unit 0301 , a data request unit 0302 , a UI control unit 0303 , an image data input reception unit 0304 , an image position adjustment unit 0305 , an object information analysis unit 0306 , and a color space determination unit 0307 .

[0038] The client computer 0101 also has an object separation image data generation unit 0308, a bitmap image data generation unit 0309, a signal value extraction unit 0310, a color conversion unit 0311, a color conversion table creation unit 0312, and a color profile creation unit 0313. These software function blocks are realized by executing a program stored in the RAM 0202 or storage unit 0203 of the client computer 0101 and working in cooperation with hardware. The program is executed by the CPU 0201 of the client computer 0101.

[0039] 3 (hereinafter referred to as control units) of the client computer 0101. If there is data missing when each control unit attempts to execute a process independently, the missing data is made up by each control unit executing its own process.

[0040] The data management unit 0301 manages data required for each control unit to execute processing, such as a color profile (described later), manuscript data, and color sample scan data, within the client computer 0101. Furthermore, when the data management unit 0301 receives a data request from each control unit, it transfers the data managed within the data management unit 0301, RAM 0202, or storage unit 0203 to the control unit. Furthermore, when the data management unit 0301 receives a data storage request from each control unit, it manages the received data within the data management unit 0301, RAM 0202, or storage unit 0203.

[0041] The data request unit 0302 acquires color profiles stored in the RAM 0209 or storage unit 0210 of the image forming device 0102. The data request unit 0302 also stores the color profiles and data acquired from the image forming device 0102 in the data management unit 0301, the RAM 0202, or the storage unit 0203.

[0042] The UI control unit 0303 performs control to display a UI on the display unit 0205. The UI control unit 0303 also performs control to display a UI based on an input signal from the input unit 0206.

[0043] The image data input accepting unit 0304 is an input accepting unit that accepts input of manuscript data from a user that the user wishes to print by reproducing the colors of a color sample on the image forming apparatus 0102. It is also an input accepting unit that accepts input of color sample scan data obtained by scanning a color sample image with an image scanner from the user. The color sample scan data may be stored in a predetermined storage location in advance, or may be obtained by scanning with the image scanner. Furthermore, the image data input accepting unit 0304 stores the accepted manuscript data and color sample scan data in the data management unit 301.

[0044] The image alignment unit 0305 aligns the alignment reference image data and alignment target image data specified by the CPU 0201. The alignment reference image data is image data that serves as a reference for alignment, such as original data. The alignment target image data is image data that is the target of image processing so as to align the image based on the alignment reference image data, such as color sample scan data.

[0045] The image alignment unit 0305 detects the characteristics of the image data of the alignment reference image data and the alignment target image data, and matches the characteristics of each image data.The image alignment unit 0305 then performs image processing such as affine transformation on the alignment target image data so that the position of the alignment target image data matches the position of the alignment reference image data.The image alignment unit 0305 generates aligned image data as a result of the image processing.

[0046] Here, the manuscript data in this embodiment will be described. There are various data formats for manuscript data, but in this embodiment, PDF, which can have objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces, will be described as the manuscript data format.

[0047] FIG. 4(a) is an example of manuscript data 0401 having objects with signal values ​​in multiple color spaces, and FIGS. 4(b) to 4(d) are examples of objects 0402 to 0409 arranged in manuscript data 0401. Object 0402 is the background and is arranged in the lowest layer of manuscript data 0401. Objects 0404, 0405, 0408, and 0409 are graphics, and object 0406 is text. Object 0403 is advertising banner image data (FIG. 4(c)), and object 0407 is image data captured by a camera with an RGB image sensor (FIG. 4(d)).

[0048] The signal values ​​of objects 0402, 0404, 0405, 0406, 0408, and 0409 are expressed in CMYK, and the signal values ​​of objects 0403 and 0407 are expressed in RGB. The overlapping order of objects 403 to 405 is, from bottom to top, objects 405, 403, and 404. The overlapping order of objects 407 to 409 is, from bottom to top, objects 408, 407, and 409.

[0049] FIG. 4( e ) shows an example of color sample scan data 0410 acquired by scanning a color sample corresponding to the original data 0401 with the scanner 0212 .

[0050] On the other hand, Fig. 11(a) shows manuscript data 1101 based on manuscript data 0401. Figs. 11(b) to 11(d) show examples of objects 1102 to 1109 arranged in the manuscript data 1101, and the signal values ​​of the objects 1102 to 1109 are all expressed in CMYK.

[0051] FIG. 11( e ) shows an example of color sample scan data 1110 acquired by scanning a color sample corresponding to the original data 1101 with the scanner 0212 .

[0052] The object information analysis unit 0306 analyzes objects arranged in manuscript data specified by the CPU 0201 and generates object information (described later) based on the analysis results. For example, when manuscript data 0401 is specified by the CPU 0201, the object information analysis unit 0306 analyzes objects 0402 to 0409 and generates object information based on the analysis results.

[0053] To analyze the objects 0402 to 0409 from the manuscript data 0401, the internal structure of the PDF is analyzed based on the ISO standard, which makes it possible to extract the coordinates and color spaces where the objects 0402 to 0409 are located in the manuscript data 0401. For example, Adobe Acrobat, provided by Adobe, offers a function for displaying the internal structure of a PDF.

[0054] The object information analysis unit 0306 analyzes the objects 0402 to 0409 and generates, as object information, areas visible from the top layer of the manuscript data 0401 (hereinafter referred to as visible areas) taking into consideration the overlapping order of the objects 0402 to 0409. For example, in FIG. 4(a), object 0404 is placed above object 0403, and part of object 0403 is not visible from the top layer. Therefore, as a result of analyzing object 0403, the object information analysis unit 0306 generates visible areas 0510 and 0511 shown in FIG. 5(b) as object information.

[0055] FIG. 5(a) shows a portion of object information 0501 generated as a result of the object information analysis unit 0306 analyzing objects 0402 to 0409. The object information 0501 is made up of items 0502 to 0507. Item 0502 indicates the color space of the object's visible area. Item 0503 indicates the page number of the manuscript data 0401 on which the visible area is located. Item 0504 indicates the x-coordinate of the visible area in the manuscript data 0401. Item 0505 indicates the y-coordinate of the visible area in the manuscript data 0401. Item 0506 indicates the width of the visible area in the manuscript data 0401. Item 0507 indicates the height of the visible area in the manuscript data 0401. Data 0508 indicates an example of the visible area of ​​a CMYK object, and data 0509 indicates an example of the visible area of ​​an RGB object.

[0056] If the object information analysis unit 0306 determines that it is difficult to express the visible area using the items 0504 to 0507 (for example, the visible area is triangular), it may divide it into multiple pieces of data and store them as object information 0501.

[0057] In this embodiment, the object information 0501 is represented in a table format as shown in Fig. 5(a), but other formats may be used as long as the items 0502 to 0507 and their contents can be associated one-to-one, such as JSON format. Also, some of the items 0502 to 0507 may be combined into one item. Furthermore, if the manuscript data 0401 consists of only one page, item 0503 may be omitted.

[0058] Furthermore, when the CPU 0201 specifies manuscript data 1101, the object information analysis unit 0306 analyzes objects 1102 to 1109 and generates object information 1201 (FIG. 12(a)). FIG. 12(a) shows a portion of the object information 1201 generated as a result of the object information analysis unit 0306 analyzing the objects 1102 to 1109. The object information 1201 is made up of items 1202 to 1207. Items 1202 to 1207 are similar to items 0502 to 0507, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Data 1208 and 1209 represent an example of the visible area of ​​a CMYK object.

[0059] The color space determination unit 0307 determines how many color spaces there are for objects placed in the original data specified by the CPU 0201. For example, when the CPU 0201 specifies original data 0401, the color space determination unit 0307 references item 0502 of object information 0501 corresponding to the original data 0401 and determines that there are two color spaces. When the CPU 0201 specifies original data 1101, the color space determination unit 0307 references item 1202 of object information 1201 corresponding to the original data 1101 and determines that there is one color space.

[0060] The object-separated image data generation unit 0308 separates the visible areas for each color space from the original data specified by the CPU 0201 based on the original data and object information specified by the CPU 0201, thereby generating object-separated image data. For example, when the CPU 0201 specifies original data 0401 and object information 0501, the object-separated image data generation unit 0308 separates the visible areas for each color space from the original data 0401 based on the object information 0501. The object-separated image data generation unit 0308 then generates object-separated image data. The object-separated image data is data obtained by separating objects included in the original data for each color space (color system).

[0061] 6 shows examples of object-separated image data 0601 and 0605 generated by the object-separated image data generation unit 0308. The object-separated image data 0601 is image data of the visual recognition area of ​​a CMYK object. Areas 0602 to 0604 are visual recognition areas of RGB objects, and therefore the absence of any objects is represented by a checkered pattern. The object-separated image data 0605 is image data of the visual recognition area of ​​an RGB object. Area 0606 is a visual recognition area of ​​a CMYK object, and therefore the absence of any objects is represented by a checkered pattern.

[0062] The bitmap image data generation unit 0309 generates bitmap image data by rasterizing the image data specified by the CPU 0201. For example, when the CPU 0201 specifies object separated image data 0601 and 0605, the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 generates bitmap image data by rasterizing the object separated image data 0601 and 0605. Alternatively, when the CPU 0201 specifies manuscript data 1101, the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 generates bitmap image data by rasterizing the manuscript data 1101.

[0063] The bitmap image data generated based on the object separated image data 0601 holds CMYK signal values ​​on a pixel-by-pixel basis because the object separated image data 0601 is image data of the visible region of a CMYK object. The bitmap image data generated based on the object separated image data 0605 holds RGB signal values ​​on a pixel-by-pixel basis because the object separated image data 0605 is image data of the visible region of an RGB object. The bitmap image data generated based on the original data 1101 holds CMYK signal values ​​on a pixel-by-pixel basis because the objects 1102 to 1109 of the original data 1101 have CMYK signal values.

[0064] Hereinafter, bitmap image data generated by the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 from the object separated image data 0601 or the manuscript data 1101 will be referred to as CMYK bitmap image data. Also, bitmap image data generated by the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 from the object separated image data 0605 will be referred to as RGB bitmap image data.

[0065] The signal value extraction unit 0310 extracts signal values ​​from image data specified by the CPU 0201, associates the extracted signal values ​​with the extracted coordinates on the image data, and stores them in the data management unit 0301. Specifically, an example will be described in which the signal value extraction unit 0310 processes CMYK bitmap image data and RGB bitmap image data.

[0066] The signal value extraction unit 0310 scans a rectangular area of ​​a predetermined size on the image data specified by the CPU 0201, calculates the average value of the signal values ​​within the rectangular area, and treats the calculated average value as the signal value to be extracted. The signal value extraction unit 0310 also associates the starting coordinate of the rectangular area with the extracted signal value. The extracted signal value does not have to be the average value within the rectangular area, and may be the median, mode, or the like. The associated coordinates do not have to be the starting coordinate of the rectangular area, and may be the coordinates of the center of gravity of the rectangular area, or the like.

[0067] FIG. 7A(a) shows a part of an extracted signal value table 0701 that the signal value extraction unit 0310 stores in the data management unit 0301 as a result of processing by the signal value extraction unit 0310 on CMYK bitmap image data.

[0068] The extracted signal value table 0701 is made up of items 0702 to 0709. Item 0702 indicates the color space of the signal value extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310. Item 0703 indicates the page number of the CMYK bitmap image data on which the signal value extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 is located. Item 0704 indicates the x-coordinate of the start point coordinate of the rectangular area when the signal value extraction unit 0310 extracted the signal value. Item 0705 indicates the y-coordinate of the start point coordinate of the rectangular area when the signal value extraction unit 0310 extracted the signal value.

[0069] Item 0706 represents the C signal value (i.e., the C component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the CMYK bitmap image data. Item 0707 represents the M signal value (i.e., the M component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the CMYK bitmap image data. Item 0708 represents the Y signal value (i.e., the Y component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the CMYK bitmap image data. Item 0709 represents the K signal value (i.e., the K component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the CMYK bitmap image data. Data 0710 and 0711 represent an example of the processing results of the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the CMYK bitmap image data.

[0070] FIG. 7A(b) shows a part of an extracted signal value table 0712 that the signal value extraction unit 0310 stores in the data management unit 0301 as a result of processing by the signal value extraction unit 0310 on RGB bitmap image data.

[0071] The extracted signal value table 0712 is made up of items 0713 to 0719. Items 0713 to 0716 are similar to items 0702 to 0705, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Item 0717 represents the R signal value (i.e., the R component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the RGB bitmap image data. Item 0718 represents the G signal value (i.e., the G component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the RGB bitmap image data. Item 0719 represents the B signal value (i.e., the B component) extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the RGB bitmap image data. Data 0720 and 0721 represent an example of the processing results of the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the RGB bitmap image data.

[0072] On the other hand, the signal value extraction unit 0310 extracts signal values ​​from image data specified by the CPU 0201 based on object information specified by the CPU 0201, and stores the extracted signal values ​​in the data management unit 0301 in association with the extracted coordinates on the image data.

[0073] For example, the image alignment unit 0305 generates aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410, which has been processed in advance to align with the original data 0401. The signal value extraction unit 0310 then receives from the CPU 0201 designations for the object information 0501 and the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. The signal value extraction unit 0310 then extracts signal values ​​from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 based on the object information 0501, and stores the extracted signal values ​​in the data management unit 0301 in association with the extracted coordinates on the image data.

[0074] Specifically, the signal value extraction unit 0310 obtains the x-coordinate, y-coordinate, width, and height of the visible area for each color space from the object information 0501, and obtains an area corresponding to the visible area for each color space in the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. The signal value extraction unit 0310 then scans the area corresponding to the visible area in the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 with a rectangular area of ​​a predetermined size, calculates the average value of the signal values ​​within the rectangular area for each color space, and treats the calculated average value as the signal value to be extracted. The signal value extraction unit 0310 associates the starting coordinates of the rectangular area when the signal value was extracted with the extracted signal value.

[0075] FIG. 7A(c) shows a portion of an extracted signal value table 0722 that the signal value extraction unit 0310 stores in the data management unit 0301 as the processing result of the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. The extracted signal value table 0722 is composed of items 0724 to 0730. Item 0724 represents the color space of the visible area acquired from the object information 0501. Items 0725 to 0727 are similar to items 0703 to 0705 and 0714 to 0716, and therefore their description will be omitted. The page number, X coordinate, and Y coordinate can be used to identify the correspondence between the document data and the aligned color sample scan data positions (or areas), and in the document data, the color space of the object visible at that position can be identified based on that position. Therefore, the color space indicated by item 0724 is not essential.

[0076] Here, the original image of the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 is the color sample scan data. Therefore, the color space of the signal values ​​of the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 in this embodiment is RGB (hereinafter referred to as scanner-dependent RGB) that depends on the scanner that scanned the color sample. Item 0728 represents the R signal value of the scanner-dependent RGB extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. Item 0729 represents the G signal value of the scanner-dependent RGB extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. Item 0730 represents the B signal value of the scanner-dependent RGB extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410.

[0077] Data 0731 and 0732 are examples of the visible region of a CMYK object among the signal values ​​extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. Data 0733 and 0734 are examples of the visible region of an RGB object among the signal values ​​extracted by the signal value extraction unit 0310 from the aligned image data.

[0078] The color conversion unit 0311 converts device-dependent signal values ​​into device-independent signal values ​​using a color profile specified by the CPU 0201. The color conversion unit 0305 also converts device-independent signal values ​​into device-dependent signal values ​​using a color profile specified by the CPU 0201.

[0079] Here, device-independent signal values ​​refer to signal values ​​that can be expressed without depending on the device, such as the Lab color space, while device-dependent signal values ​​refer to signal values ​​that express colors depending on the device, such as RGB or CMYK, and the aforementioned scanner-dependent RGB is one example.

[0080] There are various types of color profiles, such as input profiles and output profiles. The input profile defines a color conversion table that indicates what device-independent signal values ​​should be converted to when device-dependent signal values ​​are input, for example, a color conversion table from RGB signal values ​​to Lab color space. The output profile defines a color conversion table that indicates what device-dependent signal values ​​should be converted to when device-independent signal values ​​are input, for example, a color conversion table from Lab color space to CMYK signal values. The output profile also defines a color conversion table similar to the input profile, for example, a color conversion table from CMYK signal values ​​to Lab color space. Generally, the output profile defines a color conversion table based on the characteristics of prints that can be output by the image forming device 0102.

[0081] The color conversion unit 0311 uses an input profile when converting device-dependent signal values ​​into device-independent signal values. The color conversion unit 0311 also uses an output profile when converting device-independent signal values ​​into device-dependent signal values. Furthermore, the color conversion unit 0311 may store the signal values ​​before and after conversion in the data management unit 0301, in association with each other.

[0082] 7B(d) shows an example in which the color conversion unit 0311 converts the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 0728 to 0730 in the extracted signal value table 0722 into Lab color space using a scanner profile. The scanner profile is one type of input profile, and is a color conversion table for converting signal values ​​in the RGB color system read by the scanner 0212 into signal values ​​in the device-independent Lab color system. The color conversion unit 0311 creates an extracted signal value table 0735 based on the extracted signal value table 0722. The extracted signal value table 0735 is made up of items 0736 to 0745. Items 0736 to 0742 are similar to items 0724 to 0730, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0083] Item 0743 represents the signal value of L (i.e., the L component) converted by the color conversion unit 0311 from the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 0740 to 0742 to a signal value of Lab color space based on the scanner profile. Item 0744 represents the signal value of a (i.e., the a component) converted by the color conversion unit 0311 from the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 0740 to 0742 to a signal value of Lab color space based on the scanner profile. Item 0745 represents the signal value of b (i.e., the b component) converted by the color conversion unit 0311 from the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 0740 to 0742 to a signal value of Lab color space based on the scanner profile.

[0084] Data 0746 to 0749 represent data obtained by the color conversion unit 0311 converting the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of the items 0728 to 0730 of data 0731 to 0734 into signal values ​​in the Lab color space.

[0085] In this embodiment, the color conversion unit 0311 creates the extracted signal value table 0735, which is different from the extracted signal value table 0722. However, the color conversion unit 0311 may directly insert the items 0743 to 0745 into the extracted signal value table 0722.

[0086] The color conversion table creation unit 0312 creates a color conversion table based on the extracted signal value table specified by the CPU 0201. For example, the color conversion table creation unit 0312 creates color conversion tables 0750 (FIG. 7B(e)) and 0760 (FIG. 7B(f)) based on the extracted signal value tables 0701, 0712, and 0735.

[0087] 7B(e) shows a color conversion table 0750 representing signal values ​​in the Lab color space corresponding to CMYK signal values ​​extracted from CMYK bitmap image data by the signal value extraction unit 0310. The color conversion table creation unit 0312 creates the color conversion table 0750 by matching items 0702 to 0705 of the extracted signal value table 0701 with data that matches items 0736 to 0739 of the extracted signal value table 0735. For example, the color conversion table creation unit 0312 searches items 0736 to 0739 of the extracted signal value table 0735 for items that match items 0702 to 0705 of the data 0710 of the extracted signal value table 0701. Next, if the color conversion table creation unit 0312 determines that items 0702 to 0705 of the data 0710 match items 0736 to 0739 of the data 0746, it associates items 0706 to 0709 of the data 0710 with items 743 to 0745 of the data 0746. Finally, the color conversion table creation unit 0312 inserts the association results, i.e., items 0706 to 0709 of the data 0710 and items 743 to 0745 of the data 0746, into the color conversion table 0750 as data 0758.

[0088] The color conversion table 0750 is made up of items 0751 to 0757. Items 0751 to 0754 are similar to items 0706 to 0709. Items 0755 to 0757 are similar to items 0743 to 0745. Data 0758 and 0759 indicate that they are part of the color conversion table 0750.

[0089] 7B(f) shows a color conversion table 0760 representing signal values ​​in the Lab color space corresponding to RGB signal values ​​extracted from RGB bitmap image data by the signal value extraction unit 0310. The color conversion table creation unit 0312 compares items 0713 to 0716 in the extracted signal value table 0712 with items 0736 to 0739 in the extracted signal value table 0735. Then, for data whose positions (page numbers and coordinate values) match, the color conversion table creation unit 0312 creates a color conversion table 0760 that associates the respective signal values. Specifically, the color conversion table creation unit 0312 creates a color conversion table 0760 that associates items 0717 to 0719 in the extracted signal value table 0712 with items 0743 to 0745 in the extracted signal value table 0735 in the same way as the color conversion table 0750.

[0090] The color conversion table 0760 is made up of items 0761 to 0766. Items 0761 to 0763 are similar to items 0717 to 0718. Items 0764 to 0766 are similar to items 0743 to 0745. Data 0767 and 0768 indicate that they are part of the color conversion table 0760.

[0091] Here, items 0751 to 0754 and items 0761 to 0763 in the color conversion tables 0750 and 0760 are signal values ​​of the original data 0401. Items 0755 to 0757 and items 0764 to 0766 in the color conversion tables 0750 and 0760 are target print values ​​of the original data 0401. Therefore, the color conversion tables 0750 and 0760 are tables that explain what colors should be output when the signal values ​​of the original data 0401 are input to the image forming apparatus 0102.

[0092] The color profile creation unit 0313 creates a color profile based on a color conversion table specified by the CPU 0201. For example, the color profile creation unit 0313 creates a color matching color profile for converting from CMYK to Lab color space (hereinafter referred to as a CMYK color matching color profile) based on the color conversion table 0750. The color profile creation unit 0313 also creates a color matching color profile for converting from RGB to Lab color space (hereinafter referred to as an RGB color matching color profile) based on the color conversion table 0760.

[0093] Here, the color conversion table used to create the color profile must define output signal values ​​(print target values ​​of the original data 0401 in this embodiment) for continuous, evenly spaced input signal values ​​(signal values ​​of the original data 0401 in this embodiment). However, the color conversion table created by the color conversion table creation unit 0312 may be defined using output signal values ​​for discrete or local input signal values, and such a color conversion table will not have enough data to create a color profile.

[0094] Therefore, the color profile creation unit 0313 determines whether data required to create a color profile is insufficient for the color conversion table specified by the CPU 0201. The color profile creation unit 0313 then derives and compensates for the missing data through interpolation calculations to create a color profile.

[0095] For example, the color profile creation unit 0313 determines whether the items 0751 to 0754 of the color conversion table 0750 are discrete or local input signal values. If the color profile creation unit 0313 determines that the items 0751 to 0754 are discrete or local, it determines that the data in the color conversion table 0750 is insufficient. The color profile creation unit 0313 then supplements the missing data by performing linear interpolation based on predetermined initial values ​​prepared in advance (for example, a color conversion table defined in an output profile based on the image forming device 0102) and the color conversion table 0750. The color profile creation unit 0313 creates a color profile based on the color conversion table 0750 and the supplemented data.

[0096] In this embodiment, the missing data is derived by linear interpolation, but other interpolation calculation methods may be used.

[0097] The image forming apparatus 0102 has a print processing unit 0314, a scanner control unit 0315, and a data management unit 0316, which reside in the RAM 0209 or storage unit 0210 of the image forming apparatus 0102 and are executed by the CPU 0208. The print processing unit 0314 is called by the CPU 0208 of the image forming apparatus 0102 and performs print processing. The scanner control unit 0315 is called by the CPU 0208 of the image forming apparatus 0102 and scans printed materials using the scanner 0212. The data management unit 0316 is called by the CPU 0208 of the image forming apparatus 0102 and manages the configuration and capability information of the image forming apparatus 0102, print jobs, scan data, and color profiles.

[0098] The paper discharge device 0108 has a post-processing control unit 0317. The post-processing control unit 0317 resides in the RAM 0221 or memory unit 0222 of the paper discharge device 0108, and is executed by the CPU 0220. The post-processing control unit 0316 is called by the CPU 0220 of the paper discharge device 0108, and discharges printed paper onto a tray.

[0099] ● Creating a color matching color profile 8A to 12, a method for creating a color matching color profile for each color space to reproduce the same colors as a color sample and print the same colors will be described below. That is, a method for creating a color conversion table will be described below.

[0100] 8A and 8B are flowcharts of the process in which the CPU 0201 determines the color space included in the original data 0401 or 1101 and creates a color matching color profile for each color space to reproduce colors identical to those of the color sample. This process is implemented by the CPU 0201 executing a program stored in the ROM 0208 or the storage unit 0210. The CPU 0201 starts the process of the flowcharts in FIGS. 8A and 8B when it receives a request to create a color matching color profile based on the original data 0401 and the color sample scan data 0410 to reproduce colors identical to those of the color sample. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 starts the process of the flowcharts in FIGS. 8A and 8B when it receives a request to create a color matching color profile to reproduce colors identical to those of the color sample corresponding to the original data 1101. When the CPU 0201 starts the processing of the flowcharts of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 displays a window 0901 shown in FIG. 9A(a) on the display unit 0205.

[0101] Window 0901 is an example of a UI for creating a color matching color profile for reproducing colors identical to those of the color sample from the original data 0401 or 1101 and the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110. Text 0902 indicates that this is an item for setting the original data 0401 or 1101. Text 0903 indicates that this is an item for setting the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110.

[0102] The text box 0904 is a text box for inputting the file path where the manuscript data 0401 or 1101 used in creating a color matching color profile is located. The CPU 0201 detects keyboard input from the input unit 0206 and sets the file path entered from the keyboard in the text box 0904. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 detects drag-and-drop of the manuscript data 0401 or 1101 from the input unit 0206 into the text box 0904 with the mouse, and reads the file path where the manuscript data 0401 or 1101 is located. The CPU 0201 may then display the read file path in the text box 0904.

[0103] The button 0905 is a button for displaying a file selection dialog for setting the manuscript data 0401 or 1101 used in creating a color matching color profile. The CPU 0201 detects that the button 0905 is pressed and displays the file selection dialog for setting the manuscript data 0401 or 1101.

[0104] The button 0906 is a button for scanning a printed material set in the scanner 0106 with the scanner 0212 to generate scan data, and setting the generated scan data as image data to be used in creating a color matching color profile.

[0105] The text box 0907 is a text box for inputting the file path in which the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 used in creating a color matching color profile is located. The text box 0907 has the same function as the text box 0904.

[0106] The button 0908 is a button for displaying a file selection dialog for setting the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 used in creating a color matching color profile. The button 0908 has the same function as the button 0905.

[0107] The button 0909 is a button for creating a color matching color profile using the original data 0401 or 1101 set by the user and the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110. The CPU 0201 detects that the button 0909 has been pressed and creates a color matching color profile using the original data 0401 and the color sample scan data set by the user.

[0108] From here, we will explain the processing of the flowchart in Fig. 8. Note that the order of processing and the configuration of processing of the flowchart explained in this embodiment are just examples, and the order of processing of the flowchart may be reversed or some of the configuration of processing may be skipped.

[0109] In S801, the CPU 0201 displays a screen 0901 and accepts input of manuscript data 0401 and color sample scan data 0410 used in creating a color matching color profile via the image data input accepting unit 0304 of the client computer 0101. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 accepts input of manuscript data 1101 and color sample scan data 1110 used in creating a color matching color profile via the image data input accepting unit 0304 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 accepts input of manuscript data 0401 or 1101 and color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 via input into text boxes 0904 and 0907. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 detects drag-and-drop into text boxes 0904 and 0907 and accepts input of manuscript data 0401 or 1101 and color sample scan data 0410 or 1110. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 detects the pressing of the buttons 0905 and 0908, displays a file selection dialog, and accepts input of the original data 0401 or 1101 and the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110.

[0110] Here, if the user does not have the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110, the CPU 0906 detects that the button 0906 has been pressed and that a color sample corresponding to the original data 0401 or 1101 has been set in the scanner 0106. The CPU 0201 then scans the color sample corresponding to the original data 0401 or 1101 with the scanner 0212 to generate the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110. The CPU 0201 may use the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 generated by the scanner 0212 to create a color matching color profile.

[0111] 9A(b) is an example of a UI showing the results of the CPU 0201 accepting input of manuscript data and color sample scan data in step S801. The CPU 0201 displays manuscript data 0401 or 1101 and color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 in text boxes 0904 and 0907, respectively, that were accepted in step S801.

[0112] Next, in S802, the CPU 0201 determines whether it has detected that the color matching execution button 0909 has been pressed. If it has detected that the color matching execution button 0909 has been pressed, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S803. On the other hand, if it has not detected that the color matching execution button 0909 has been pressed, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S802 again.

[0113] Next, in S803, the CPU 0201 causes the image alignment unit 0305 of the client computer 0101 to align the manuscript data 0401 and color sample scan data 0410 whose input was accepted in S801. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 causes the image alignment unit 0305 of the client computer 0101 to align the manuscript data 1101 and color sample scan data 1110 whose input was accepted in S801.

[0114] Specifically, the CPU 0201 performs alignment using the original data 0401 or 1101 as alignment reference image data and the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 as alignment target image data. Then, the CPU 0201 performs image processing on the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 to generate aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 or aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110.

[0115] For example, the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 is translated a predetermined distance in each of the up, down, left, and right directions, and then rotated a predetermined angle in each direction to determine the correlation value with the original data 0401 or 1101. The color sample scan data 0410 or 1110 with the maximum correlation may be used as the aligned data. That is, alignment is performed for both the translation component and the rotation component. The correlation value can be, for example, the sum of squares of the differences between corresponding pixel values ​​contained in the entire image or in one or more partial regions. In this case, the minimum correlation value indicates the maximum correlation. When calculating such correlation, objects expressed in CMYK contained in the original data may be temporarily converted to RGB bitmaps using a given input / output profile before color alignment, and then the correlation value may be calculated. Of course, this is just one example. For example, a trained model may be created using machine learning or the like that inputs the original image data and the color sample scan data and outputs aligned color sample scan data. Then, the trained model may be used to perform alignment.

[0116] Next, in S804, the CPU 0201 causes the object information analysis unit 0306 of the client computer 0101 to analyze the objects 0402 to 0409 arranged in the manuscript data 0401 and generate object information 0501. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 causes the object information analysis unit 0306 of the client computer 0101 to analyze the objects 1102 to 1109 arranged in the manuscript data 1101 and generate object information 1201.

[0117] Next, in S805, the CPU 0201 determines, via the color space determination unit 0307 of the client computer 0101, how many color spaces there are for the objects 0402-0409 in the manuscript data 0401. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 determines, via the color space determination unit 0307 of the client computer 0101, whether there are multiple color spaces for the objects 1102-1109 in the manuscript data 1101. This determination may be made, for example, by referencing the items 0502 and 1202 included in the object information 0501 and object information 1201, and by referencing the color spaces of each object and counting the number. If there are multiple color spaces, the process branches to S806; otherwise, the process branches to S812.

[0118] 5, the CPU 0201 determines, via the color space determination unit 0307 of the client computer 0101, that there are multiple color spaces (two color spaces) for the objects 0402 to 0409 in the manuscript data 0401. Based on the determination result, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S806 (S805: Y).

[0119] On the other hand, the CPU 0201 determines, via the color space determination unit 0307 of the client computer 0101, that there are not multiple color spaces (there is one color space) for the objects 1102 to 1109 in the manuscript data 1101. Based on this determination result, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S812 (S805: N).

[0120] Next, in S806, the CPU 0201, via the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101, displays a color matching color profile for each color space to be created based on the object information 0501 corresponding to the manuscript data 0401 and the determination result of S805. For example, the CPU 0201 determines that two color matching color profiles, a CMYK color matching color profile and an RGB color matching color profile, need to be created based on item 0502 of the object information 0501 and the determination result of S805. Based on the determination result, the CPU 0201 displays a dialog 0910 shown in FIG. 9A(c). The dialog 0910 includes the number of color profiles to be created (i.e., the number of color spaces) and a character string indicating each of the color spaces.

[0121] Dialog 0910 is an example of a UI for indicating what color matching color profile the CPU 0201 will create. Text 0911 is text indicating the determination result of S805. Text 0912 is text indicating how many color matching color profiles the CPU 0201 will create based on the determination result of S805. In this embodiment, this indicates that the CPU 0201 will create two color matching color profiles: a CMYK color matching color profile and an RGB color matching color profile.

[0122] Text 0913 indicates that a CMYK color matching color profile is to be created. Text 0914 indicates that an RGB color matching color profile is to be created.

[0123] The button 0915 is a button for prompting the user to confirm the contents of the dialog 0910, and for closing the dialog 0910 and proceeding to the next process. For example, the CPU 0201 may detect that the button 0915 is pressed and execute the next process.

[0124] Next, in step S807 , the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​for each color space from the aligned image data of the original data 0401 and the color sample scan data 0410 based on the object information 0501 .

[0125] The process flow of step S807 will now be described in detail with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 10(a). When the process of step S807 starts, the CPU 0201 starts the process of the flowchart in Fig. 10(a).

[0126] First, in S1001, the CPU 0201 generates object-separated image data from the manuscript data 0401 using the object-separated image data generation unit 0308 of the client computer 0101 based on the object information 0501. The generated object-separated image data is image data in which objects are separated for each color space used in the manuscript data. As a result of the processing in S1001, the CPU 0201 generates object-separated image data 0601 and 0605.

[0127] Next, in S1002, the CPU 0201 generates bitmap image data from the object separation image data for each color space generated in S1001 using the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 generates CMYK bitmap image data from the object separation image data 0601, and generates RGB bitmap image data from the object separation image data 0605.

[0128] Next, in S1003, the CPU 0201 generates an extracted signal value table by extracting signal values ​​from each bitmap image data for each color space generated in S1002 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​from the CMYK bitmap image data generated in S1002 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101, and generates an extracted signal value table 0701. The CPU 0201 also extracts signal values ​​from the RGB bitmap image data generated in S1002 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101, and generates an extracted signal value table 0712.

[0129] Next, in S1004, the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​for each color space from the aligned image data generated in S803 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 based on the object information 0501. The CPU 0201 then generates an extracted signal value table from the extracted signal values. For example, the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​for each color space from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 based on the object information 0501. The CPU 0201 then generates an extracted signal value table 0722 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 as the extracted signal values. At this time, the pages and regions of both the object-separated image data for each color space from which signal values ​​are to be extracted correspond to the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. Since the area of ​​the object-separated image data is determined for each color space, the area of ​​the object-separated image data may be determined first, and then the corresponding page and area may be identified from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410.

[0130] Returning to the description of the flowchart in Figure 8, in S808, the CPU 0201 causes the color conversion unit 0311 of the client computer 0101 to convert the signal values ​​of the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 extracted in S807 into device-independent signal values. For example, the CPU 0201 causes the color conversion unit 0311 of the client computer 0101 to convert the signal values ​​of items 0728 to 0730 of the extracted signal value table 0722 into device-independent signal values ​​using a scanner profile. Thereafter, the CPU 0201 generates an extracted signal value table 0735 by associating the signal values ​​of items 0728 to 0730 with the converted device-independent signal values.

[0131] Next, in step S809, the CPU 0201 creates a color conversion table for each color space using the color conversion table creation unit 0312 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 compares the extracted signal value tables 0701 and 0712 for each color space of the original data with the extracted signal value table 0735 for the color sample scan data using the color conversion table creation unit 0312 of the client computer 0101. Then, the CPU 0201 creates color conversion tables 0750 and 0760 for each color space based on the signal values ​​of the original data and the device-independent signal values ​​obtained from the color sample scan data corresponding to the page number and coordinates. That is, the color conversion tables 0750 and 0760 are tables that associate signal values ​​of a first region belonging to each object in the color space included in the original data with signal values ​​of a second region corresponding to the first region in the color sample scan data. Here, the signal values ​​of the first and second regions are, for example, the average signal values ​​of the pixels belonging to each region. The signal values ​​in the second region are values ​​obtained by converting, for example, RGB signal values ​​of the color sample scan data into signal values ​​in a device-independent color space, in this example, the Lab color space.

[0132] Next, in S810, the CPU 0201 creates a color matching color profile for each color space using the color conversion tables 0750 and 0760 created in S809, with the color profile creation unit 0313 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 creates a CMYK color matching color profile by interpolating signal values ​​using the color conversion table 0750, with the color profile creation unit 0313 of the client computer 0101. Also, the CPU 0201 creates an RGB color matching color profile by interpolating signal values ​​using the color conversion table 0760, with the color profile creation unit 0313 of the client computer 0101.

[0133] Next, in S811, the CPU 0201 saves the color matching color profile created in S810 in a predetermined location. When saving the color matching color profile created in S810 in a predetermined location, the CPU 0201 causes the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 to display a dialog 0916 shown in Fig. 9B(d). The dialog 0916 includes text indicating the color space to be converted by the created color profile and text indicating the location of the created color profile.

[0134] A dialog box 0916 is an example of a UI for indicating where the CPU 0201 has saved the color matching color profile created in step S810.

[0135] Text 0917 indicates that the color matching color profile created in S810 has been saved. Text 0918 indicates that this is an item for a CMYK color matching color profile. Text 0919 indicates that this is an item for an RGB color matching color profile.

[0136] Text 0920 is text that indicates the file path where the CMYK color matching color profile is saved. Text 0921 is text that indicates the file path where the RGB color matching color profile is saved. Button 0922 is a button that prompts the user to confirm the contents of dialog 0916 and is used to close dialog 0916. For example, the CPU 0201 may detect that button 0922 has been pressed, close dialog 0916, and end the processing of the flowchart in FIG. 8.

[0137] From here, the processes of S812 to S817 that are executed when the CPU 0201 determines in S805 that the objects 1102 to 1109 of the manuscript data 1101 have one color space (S805: N) will be described.

[0138] In S812, similar to S806, the CPU 0201 displays the color matching color profile to be created based on the object information 1201 corresponding to the manuscript data 1101 and the determination result of S805. For example, the CPU 0201 determines that it is necessary to create only one color matching color profile for CMYK based on the item 1202 of the object information 1201 and the determination result of S805. Based on the determination result, the CPU 0201 displays a dialog 0923 shown in FIG. 9B(e).

[0139] Dialog 0923 is the same as dialog 0910. Text 0924 to 0926 is the same as text 0911 to 0913. Text 0925 indicates that in this embodiment, the CPU 0201 will create one color matching profile for only CMYK. Button 0927 is the same as button 0915.

[0140] Next, in step S813, the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​from the aligned image data of the original data 1101 and the color sample scan data 1110, respectively.

[0141] Here, the flow of the process in step S813 will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 10(b). When the process in step S813 starts, the CPU 0201 starts the process in the flowchart in Fig. 10(b).

[0142] First, in step S1005 , the CPU 0201 causes the bitmap image data generating unit 0308 of the client computer 0101 to generate CMYK bitmap image data from the original data 1101 .

[0143] Next, in S1006, the CPU 0201 causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to extract signal values ​​from the CMYK bitmap image data generated in S1005. For example, the CPU 0201 causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to extract signal values ​​from the CMYK bitmap image data generated in S1005, and generates an extracted signal value table 1210 ( FIG. 12(b) ). Note that while this example illustrates a case where the color space of the object in the original data is only CMYK, signal values ​​are similarly extracted from the bitmap image data even in other color spaces, such as RGB, and an extracted signal value table for that color space is created.

[0144] 12(b) shows a portion of an extracted signal value table 1210 that the signal value extraction unit 0310 stores in the data management unit 0301 as a processing result of the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the CMYK bitmap image data generated in S1005. The extracted signal value table 1210 is made up of items 1211 to 1218. Items 1211 to 1218 are similar to items 0702 to 0709 in the extracted signal value table 0701, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Note that, since it is clear from the determination result of S805 that the color space of the signal values ​​of objects 1102 to 1109 in the manuscript data 1101 is one, item 1211 may be omitted. Data 1219 and 1220 represent an example of the processing result of the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the CMYK bitmap image data generated in S1005.

[0145] Next, in S1007, the CPU 0201 causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to extract signal values ​​from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110 generated in S803. The CPU 0201 causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to generate an extracted signal value table 1221 (FIG. 12(c)) as the extracted signal values.

[0146] 12(c) shows a portion of an extracted signal value table 1221 that the signal value extraction unit 0310 stores in the data management unit 0301 as a result of processing by the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110. The extracted signal value table 1221 is composed of items 1222 to 1228. Items 1222 to 1228 are similar to items 0724 to 0730, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Note that, since it is clear from the determination result of S805 that the color space of the signal values ​​of the objects 1102 to 1109 in the manuscript data 1101 corresponding to the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110 is one, item 1222 is not necessary. Data 1229 and 1230 represent an example of the processing result by the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110.

[0147] Returning to the description of the flowchart in Fig. 8, in S814, similar to S808, the CPU 0201 converts the signal values ​​of the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110 extracted in S813 into device-independent signal values ​​using the color conversion unit 0311 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 converts the signal values ​​of items 1226 to 1228 in the extracted signal value table 1221 into device-independent signal values ​​using the scanner profile using the color conversion unit 0311 of the client computer 0101. Thereafter, the CPU 0201 generates the extracted signal value table 1231 (Fig. 12(d)) by associating the signal values ​​of items 1226 to 1228 with the converted device-independent signal values.

[0148] 12(d) shows an example in which the color conversion unit 0311 converts the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 1226 to 1228 in the extracted signal value table 1221 into the Lab color space using the scanner profile. The CPU 0201 creates an extracted signal value table 1231 based on the extracted signal value table 1221 using the color conversion unit 0311 of the client computer 0101.

[0149] The extracted signal value table 1231 is made up of items 1232 to 1238. Items 1232 to 1238 are similar to items 1222 to 1228 in the extracted signal value table 1221, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Items 1236 to 1238 are similar to items 0743 to 0745 in the extracted signal value table 0735, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Data 1239 and 1240 represent data obtained by the color conversion unit 0311 converting the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 1226 to 1228 of data 1229 to 1230, respectively, into signal values ​​in the Lab color space.

[0150] Next, in S815, the CPU 0201 creates a color conversion table using the color conversion table creation unit 0312 of the client computer 0101. For example, the CPU 0201 compares the extracted signal value tables 1210 and 1231 using the color conversion table creation unit 0312 of the client computer 0101. Then, a color conversion table 1241 (FIG. 12(e)) is created from the signal values ​​of the original data and the device-independent signal values ​​obtained from the color sample scan data that correspond to the page numbers and coordinates.

[0151] 12(e) shows a portion of the color conversion table 1241 created by the color conversion table creation unit 0312. The color conversion table creation unit 0312 creates the color conversion table 1241 by matching data in items 1211 to 1214 of the extracted signal value table 1210 with data in items 1232 to 1235 of the extracted signal value table 1231.

[0152] The color conversion table 1241 is composed of items 1242 to 1248. Items 1242 to 1245 are similar to items 1215 to 1218 in the extracted signal value table 1210, and therefore their explanations are omitted. Items 1246 to 1248 are similar to items 1236 to 1238 in the extracted signal value table 1231, and therefore their explanations are omitted. Data 1249 and 1250 indicate that they are part of the color conversion table 1241. The color conversion table 1241 is a table for color conversion of only one color space of an object in the original data, in this example, from CMYK to Lab. Like the color conversion table 0750, the color conversion table 1241 is a table that associates signal values ​​of a first region belonging to an object in a color space included in the original data with signal values ​​of a second region corresponding to the first region in the color sample scan data. Here, the signal values ​​of the first and second regions are, for example, the average signal values ​​of the pixels belonging to each region. The signal values ​​in the second region are values ​​obtained by converting, for example, RGB signal values ​​of the color sample scan data into signal values ​​in a device-independent color space, in this example, the Lab color space.

[0153] Next, in S816, similarly to S810, the CPU 0201 creates a CMYK color matching color profile using the color profile creation unit 0313 of the client computer 0101 based on the color conversion table 1241 created in S815.

[0154] Finally, in step S817, similar to step S811, the CPU 0201 saves the color matching color profile created in step S816 in a predetermined location. When saving the color matching color profile created in step S816 in a predetermined location, the CPU 0201 causes the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 to display a dialog 0928 shown in FIG. 9(f).

[0155] Dialog 0928 is the same as dialog 0916. Text 0929 to 0931 is the same as text 0917 to 0920. Button 0932 is the same as button 0922. For example, the CPU 0201 may detect that button 0932 has been pressed, close dialog 0928, and end the processing of the flowchart in FIG.

[0156] According to this embodiment, when the objects 0402 to 0409 of the original data 0401 include objects for which signal values ​​are specified in multiple color spaces, the objects 0402 to 0409 of the original data 0401 are analyzed to generate object information 0501. It is determined based on the object information 0501 whether the signal values ​​of the objects 0402 to 0409 include multiple color spaces. If it is determined that multiple color spaces exist, signal values ​​are extracted for each color space from the original data 0401 and the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 based on the object information 0501. A color conversion table for each color space is created based on the signal values ​​extracted for each color space, and a color matching color profile for each color space is created based on the created color conversion table.

[0157] Once a color matching color profile is created in the above manner, the objects included in the original data are color-matched for each color space using that color profile and output by printing, etc. The created color profile converts the color space of the objects into a device-independent color space, such as the Lab color space. Therefore, the original data may first be converted into signal values ​​in the Lab color space, and then converted into signal values ​​in the device-dependent color space of the image forming device 0102, before being printed by the image forming device 0102.

[0158] Color conversion may be performed, for example, by a color conversion unit 0311 on the object separation image data for each color space generated by the object separation image data generation unit 0308. After conversion into signal values ​​in a device-independent color space, the data may be further converted into signal values ​​in a device-dependent color space (for example, device CMYK corresponding to the color components of the toner), and the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 may generate bitmap image data, which may then be printed. Alternatively, color conversion may be performed using a color profile that combines a color matching color profile and a color profile in a device-dependent color space, and printing may be performed. Furthermore, if the color profile is configured for discrete signal values, the signal values ​​may be converted while being interpolated.

[0159] When the signal values ​​of the objects 0402 to 0409 of the manuscript data 0401 have multiple color spaces, it has conventionally been difficult to create a highly accurate color conversion table for each color space to reproduce the same colors as the color sample. This embodiment makes it possible to appropriately determine the color spaces of the objects 0402 to 0409 of the manuscript data 0401, create a color conversion table for each color space to reproduce the same colors as the color sample, and create a color matching color profile for each color space. As a result, even if the signal values ​​of the objects 0402 to 0409 of the manuscript data 0401 have multiple color spaces, the manuscript data 0401 can be printed with the same color reproduction as the color sample by using the color matching color profile for each color space. Furthermore, by aligning the manuscript data and the color sample data, it is possible to accurately match the colors of corresponding areas between the respective data.

[0160] 8, in S805, it is determined whether or not multiple color spaces are used by the objects included in the original data, but S805 and S812-S817 may be omitted. In that case, regardless of whether one color space or two or more color spaces are used, a color conversion table can be created in S806-S811 for each color space used by the objects included in the original data.

[0161] Furthermore, when creating a color conversion table, it is sufficient to have at least one target region for sampling signal values ​​for single-color objects such as graphics objects and text objects. In contrast, for objects that include gradations, such as graphics objects and bitmap objects including multiple colors, it is desirable to divide a single object into multiple regions and sample signal values ​​for each region.

[0162] <Second embodiment> In S810 of the first embodiment, the signal values ​​of objects 0402 to 0409 of the original data 0401 had two color spaces, CMYK and RGB, so a CMYK color matching color profile and an RGB color matching color profile were created. However, there are cases where the user wants to print RGB objects 0403 and 0407 of the original data 0401 using a predetermined color profile (for example, AdobeRGB) without using the RGB color matching color profile. In that case, there is no need to create an RGB color matching color profile.

[0163] Therefore, when there are multiple color spaces for the signal values ​​of the objects 0402 to 0409 in the original data 0401, the user is allowed to select a color space in which they want to reproduce the same colors as the color sample for the original data 0401. Then, a method is provided for creating a color conversion table to reproduce the same colors as the color sample only for the specific color space desired by the user.

[0164] 13 is a flowchart showing the process in which the CPU 0201 determines the color space included in the original data 0401 or 1101, accepts the selection of a color space, and creates a color matching color profile for only the selected color space. The CPU 0201 starts the process of the flowchart in FIG. 13 when it accepts a request to create a color matching color profile for the original data 0401 based on the original data 0401 and the color sample scan data 0410, in order to reproduce the colors of the original data 0401 in the same way as the color sample. Alternatively, the CPU 0201 starts the process of the flowchart in FIG. 13 when it accepts a request to create a color matching color profile for the original data 1101 based on the original data 1101 and the color sample scan data 1110, in order to reproduce the colors of the original data 1101 in the same way as the color sample. When the CPU 0201 starts the process of the flowchart in FIG. 13, the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 displays a window 0901 on the display unit 0205.

[0165] First, in step S1301, the CPU 0201 performs the same processing as in step S801.

[0166] Next, in S1302, the CPU 0201 performs the same process as in S804. Note that, when the CPU 0201 receives input of the manuscript data 0401 or 1101 in S1301, the CPU 0201 may asynchronously execute the process of S1302 without waiting for the reception of input of the color sample scan data 0410 or 1110.

[0167] Next, in S1303, the CPU 0201 performs the same processing as in S805. In this embodiment, the CPU 0201 determines, via the color space determination unit 0307 of the client computer 0101, that there are multiple color spaces for the objects 0402 to 0409 in the manuscript data 0401, and performs the processing of S1304 (S1303: Y). On the other hand, the CPU 0201 determines, via the color space determination unit 0307 of the client computer 0101, that there are not multiple color spaces for the objects 1102 to 1109 in the manuscript data 1101, and performs the processing of S1316 (S1303: N).

[0168] Next, in S1304, the CPU 0201 causes the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 to display a plurality of color spaces of the objects 0402 to 0409 of the manuscript data 0401 on the display unit 0205 based on the object information 0501. For example, the CPU 0201 displays a UI 1401 ( FIG. 14(a) ), which is a color space selection screen, on the window 0901. In this embodiment, since the objects 0402 to 0409 of the manuscript data 0401 have two color spaces, CMYK and RGB, two texts 1405 and 1406 representing CMYK and RGB and two check boxes 1403 and 1404 are displayed.

[0169] 14(a) shows an example of a UI 1401 for accepting the selection of a color space for creating a color matching color profile when there are multiple color spaces for objects 0402 to 0409 in manuscript data 0401. Text 1402 indicates that the selection of a color space for creating a color matching color profile is accepted. The user selects a color space by checking the checkbox for each candidate color space, and information indicating the color space selected in the UI is saved and referenced when creating a color conversion table.

[0170] A check box 1403 is a check box for selecting whether or not to create a CMYK color matching color profile. A check box 1404 is a check box for selecting whether or not to create an RGB color matching color profile.

[0171] Text 1405 is text indicating that a selection is being accepted as to whether or not to create an RGB color matching color profile. Text 1406 is text indicating that a selection is being accepted as to whether or not to create a CMYK color matching color profile.

[0172] Next, in S1305, the CPU 0201 accepts the selection of a color space for creating a color matching color profile. For example, the CPU 0201 detects a signal from the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101, determines whether check boxes 1403 and 1404 are checked, and accepts the selection of a color space for creating a color matching color profile. FIG. 14B is an example of a UI indicating that the check box 1403 is checked. In FIG. 14B, the CPU 0201 accepts the selection of creating a CMYK color matching color profile but not creating an RGB color matching color profile. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the CPU 0201 accepts the selection of creating a CMYK color matching color profile but not creating an RGB color matching color profile for the original data 0401 in S1305.

[0173] Next, in S1306, the CPU 0201 performs the same processing as in S802. When the color matching execution button 0909 is pressed (for example, by clicking), the selected color space is confirmed. If the CPU 0201 detects that the button 0909 has been pressed, it performs the processing of S1307. On the other hand, if the CPU 0201 does not detect that the button 0909 has been pressed, it performs the processing of S1306 again.

[0174] Next, in S1307, the CPU 0201 determines whether or not the selection of at least one color space for creating a color matching color profile was accepted in S1305. If the selection of at least one color space for creating a color matching color profile was accepted in S1305, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S1308. On the other hand, if the selection of at least one color space for creating a color matching color profile was not accepted in S1305, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S1305.

[0175] Next, in S1308, the CPU 0201 performs the same process as in S806. For example, the CPU 0201 displays a dialog 1407 shown in Fig. 14(c) via the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101. The dialog 1407 includes the number of color profiles to be created (i.e., the number of selected color spaces) and character strings indicating each of the color spaces.

[0176] Dialog 1407 is a dialog similar to dialog 0910. Text 1408 is text indicating the determination result of S1303. Text 1409 is text indicating how many color matching color profiles the CPU 0201 will create based on the processing result of S1305. In this embodiment, the CPU 0201 creates only CMYK color matching color profiles, so this indicates that one color matching color profile will be created. If the number of selected color spaces is two or more, that number is displayed instead of "1." Text 1410 is text similar to text 0913. Text indicating the selected color space for which the color profile will be created is displayed. Button 1411 is a button similar to button 0915. For example, the CPU 0201 detects the pressing of button 1411 and executes the next process. Button 1412 is a button for closing dialog 1407 and executing the process of S1305. For example, the CPU 0201 detects the pressing of the button 1412, executes the process of step S1305, and redoes the acceptance of the selection of the color space for creating the color matching color profile.

[0177] Next, in S1309, the CPU 0201 accepts a request as to whether to reselect the color space for creating the color matching color profile whose selection was accepted in S1305. For example, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S1305 by detecting the pressing of button 1412 via the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 (S1309: N). Alternatively, the CPU 0201 executes the process of S1310 by detecting the pressing of button 1411 via the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 (S1309: Y).

[0178] Next, in S1310, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S803. Specifically, the CPU 0201 aligns the color sample scan data 0410 using the original data 0401 and the color sample scan data 0410 with the image alignment unit 0305 of the client computer 0101. The CPU 0201 generates aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 as the processing result of S1310.

[0179] Next, in S1311, the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​for each color space selected in S1305 from the aligned image data of the original data 0401 and the color sample scan data 0410 based on the object information 0201.

[0180] Here, the flow of processing in step S1311 will be specifically described using the flowchart in Fig. 15(a). When the CPU 0201 starts processing in step S1311, it starts the processing in the flowchart in Fig. 15(a).

[0181] First, in S1501, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S1001. Specifically, the CPU 0201 causes the object-separated image data generation unit 0308 of the client computer 0101 to generate object-separated image data from the original data 0401 for each color space selected in S1305. The generated object-separated image data is image data in which objects are separated for each color space selected from the color spaces used in the original data. For example, because the CPU 0201 received a command to create only a CMYK color matching color profile in S1305, it generates only object-separated image data 0601 in S1501.

[0182] Next, in S1502, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S1002. That is, the CPU 0201 generates bitmap image data from the object separation image data for each color space generated in S1501 using the bitmap image data generation unit 0309 of the client computer 0101. Here, the CPU 0201 generates only CMYK bitmap image data from the object separation image data 0601.

[0183] Next, in S1503, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S1003. That is, the CPU 0201 generates an extracted signal value table by extracting signal values ​​from each of the bitmap image data for each color space generated in S1502 using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101. Here, the CPU 0201 extracts signal values ​​from the CMYK bitmap image data using the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101, and generates only the extracted signal value table 0701.

[0184] Finally, in S1504, the CPU 0201 executes the same processing as in S1004. That is, based on the object information 0501, the CPU 0201 causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to extract signal values ​​for each color space from the aligned image data generated in S1310. The CPU 0201 then generates an extracted signal value table from the extracted signal values. Specifically, in this example, the CPU 0201 causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to extract signal values ​​for each color space selected in S1305 from the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 generated in S1310. The CPU 0201 then causes the signal value extraction unit 0310 of the client computer 0101 to generate an extracted signal value table 1601 ( FIG. 16(a) ) using the extracted signal values. At this time, the pages and regions of both the object-separated image data for each color space from which signal values ​​are extracted are selected so that they correspond to the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. This is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0185] 16A shows a portion of an extracted signal value table 1601 that the signal value extraction unit 0310 stores in the data management unit 0301 as the processing result of the signal value extraction unit 0310 on the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 generated in S1310. The signal value extraction unit 0310 acquires the visible area of ​​the color space selected in S1305 from the object information 0501. The signal value extraction unit 0310 scans a rectangular area of ​​a predetermined size in the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410 generated in S1310, corresponding to the acquired visible area, and treats the average value of the signal values ​​within the rectangular area as the signal value to be extracted. The extracted signal value table 1601 has the same configuration as the extracted signal value table 0722.

[0186] Returning to the description of the flowchart in Fig. 13, in S1312, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S808. As a result of the process in S1311, the CPU 0201 generates an extracted signal value table 1611 shown in Fig. 16(b).

[0187] 16(b) shows an example in which the color conversion unit 0311 uses a scanner profile to convert the scanner-dependent RGB signal values ​​of items 1606 to 1608 in the extracted signal value table 1601 into Lab color space. The extracted signal value table 1611 has the same configuration as the extracted signal value table 0735.

[0188] Next, in S1313, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S809. Specifically, the CPU 0201 creates a color conversion table for each color space selected in S1305 using the color conversion table creation unit 0312 of the client computer 0101. For example, since the CPU 0201 receives a request in S1305 to create only a CMYK color matching color profile, in S1313 it creates only the color conversion table 0750.

[0189] Next, in S1314, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S810. Specifically, the CPU 0201 creates a color matching color profile for each color space selected in S1305 using the color profile creation unit 0313 of the client computer 0101. For example, since the CPU 0201 receives a request to create only a CMYK color matching color profile in S1305, it creates only a CMYK color matching color profile in S1314.

[0190] Next, in step S1315, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in step S811. For example, the CPU 0201 causes the UI control unit 0303 of the client computer 0101 to display a UI similar to the dialog box 0928 on the display unit 0205.

[0191] From here, the processing of S1316 to S1323 after the CPU 0201 determines in S1303 that the objects 1102 to 1109 of the manuscript data 1101 do not have multiple color spaces (S1303: N) will be described.

[0192] In S1316, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S1306. Next, in S1317, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S812.

[0193] Next, in S1318, the CPU 0201 executes the same process as in S803. Specifically, the CPU 0201 aligns the color sample scan data 1110 using the original data 1101 and the color sample scan data 1110 with the image alignment unit 0305 of the client computer 0101. The CPU 0201 generates aligned image data of the color sample scan data 1110 as the processing result of S1318.

[0194] In steps S1319 to S1323, the CPU 0201 executes the same processes as in steps S813 to S817.

[0195] After S1317, the process may branch to S1310, and S1318 to S1323 may be omitted. In this case, in S1310 and thereafter, a color profile may be created for each color space of an object included in the document data.

[0196] According to this embodiment, if the signal values ​​of the objects 0402-0409 in the original data 0401 include multiple color spaces, the objects 0402-0409 in the original data 0401 are analyzed to generate object information 0501. Based on the object information 0501, it is determined whether the signal values ​​of the objects 0402-0409 include multiple color spaces. If it is determined that multiple color spaces exist, the system accepts the selection of a color space for creating a color matching color profile. Based on the object information 0501, signal values ​​are extracted for each selected color space from the original data 0401 and the aligned image data of the color sample scan data 0410. A color conversion table is created for each selected color space based on the extracted signal values, and a color matching color profile is created for each selected color space based on the created color conversion table.

[0197] Therefore, when there are multiple color spaces for the signal values ​​of the objects 0402 to 0409 in the original data 0401, it is possible to create a color matching color profile for only the color space desired by the user. This allows for efficient creation of a color matching color profile.

[0198] [Other Examples] The present invention 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.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0199] Summary of embodiments The above embodiments can be summarized as follows: (Item 1) An information processing device that performs color matching based on document data and scan data, an input receiving means for receiving input of manuscript data and input of scan data; a positioning unit for performing positioning between the document data and the scan data; and a creating means for creating a color conversion table for color matching for at least one color space of an object included in the original data based on the aligned original data and the scanned data. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 2) Item 1. The information processing device according to item 1, further comprising a generating means for generating bitmap image data; The positioning means generates bitmap image data based on the document data using the generating means, and aligns the scan data to the bitmap image data. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 3) Item 2. The information processing device according to item 2, The positioning unit aligns the scanned data with the bitmap image data generated based on the document data by translating and rotating the scanned data. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 4) The information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 3, The creating means creates the color conversion table for each of the at least one color space of the objects included in the document data. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 5) The information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 4, a display means for displaying a user interface; further comprising an input means for accepting an input from a user; the display means displays a selection screen on the user interface for selecting a desired color space from the at least one color space of the object included in the document data; receiving an input of the selection of the color space by the input means; The creating means creates the color conversion table for the selected color space. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 6) Item 1 to 5. An information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 5, The scan data is data obtained by reading a color sample image with an image scanner, The color conversion table is a table that associates signal values ​​of the objects in the at least one color space included in the original data with signal values ​​in a device-independent color space. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 7) Item 1 to 6, the information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 6, The creating means an object-separated image data generating unit that generates object-separated image data by separating objects from the original data for each of the at least one color space based on the objects; a bitmap image data generation unit that generates bitmap image data for each of the at least one color space based on the object separated image data, The color conversion table is created by associating the signal values ​​for each of the at least one color space extracted from the bitmap image data for each of the at least one color space with the signal values ​​extracted from the corresponding region of the scan data. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 8) Item 7. The information processing device according to item 7, The signal value of the corresponding region of the scan data is a device-independent signal value based on the signal value of the corresponding region of the scan data. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 9) An information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 8, further comprising a display means for displaying a user interface; The display means displays, on the user interface, the at least one color space for which the color conversion table is to be created, before the creation means creates the color conversion table for each of the at least one color space. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 10) Item 10. The information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 9, further comprising a display means for displaying a user interface; After the creation unit creates the color conversion table for each of the at least one color space, the display unit displays the at least one color space for which the color conversion table has been created on the user interface. 1. An information processing device comprising: (Item 11) An information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 10, The image forming apparatus further includes a color conversion unit that converts the color of the document data into the color of an image formed by an image forming device for each of the at least one color space using the color conversion table. 1. An information processing device comprising:

[0200] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0201] S804 Object information analysis means, S807 Signal value extraction means, S809 Color conversion table creation means, S1001 Object separated image data generation unit, 0401 Original data, 0501 Object information, 0601, 0605 Object separated image data, 0701, 0712, 0722 Extracted signal value table, 0750, 0760 Color conversion table, 0910, 0916 Dialog

Claims

1. An information processing device that performs color matching based on document data and scan data, an input receiving means for receiving input of manuscript data and input of scan data; a positioning unit for performing positioning between the document data and the scan data; and a creating means for creating a color conversion table for color matching for at least one color space of an object included in the original data based on the aligned original data and the scanned data.

1. An information processing device comprising:

2. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a generating means for generating bitmap image data; The positioning means generates bitmap image data based on the document data using the generating means, and aligns the scan data to the bitmap image data.

1. An information processing device comprising:

3. 3. The information processing device according to claim 2, The positioning unit aligns the scanned data with the bitmap image data generated based on the document data by translating and rotating the scanned data.

1. An information processing device comprising:

4. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The creating unit creates the color conversion table for each of the at least one color space of the objects included in the document data.

1. An information processing device comprising:

5. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, a display means for displaying a user interface; further comprising an input means for accepting an input from a user; the display means displays a selection screen on the user interface for selecting a desired color space from the at least one color space of the object included in the document data; receiving an input of the selection of the color space by the input means; The creating means creates the color conversion table for the selected color space.

1. An information processing device comprising:

6. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The scan data is data obtained by reading a color sample image with an image scanner, The color conversion table is a table that associates signal values ​​of the objects in the at least one color space included in the original data with signal values ​​in a device-independent color space.

1. An information processing device comprising:

7. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The creating means is an object-separated image data generating unit that generates object-separated image data by separating objects from the original data for each of the at least one color space based on the objects; a bitmap image data generation unit that generates bitmap image data for each of the at least one color space based on the object separated image data, The color conversion table is created by associating the signal values ​​for each of the at least one color space extracted from the bitmap image data for each of the at least one color space with the signal values ​​extracted from the corresponding region of the scan data.

1. An information processing device comprising:

8. 8. The information processing device according to claim 7, The signal value of the corresponding region of the scan data is a device-independent signal value based on the signal value of the corresponding region of the scan data.

1. An information processing device comprising:

9. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a display means for displaying a user interface; The display means displays, on the user interface, the at least one color space for which the color conversion table is to be created, before the creation means creates the color conversion table for each of the at least one color space.

1. An information processing device comprising:

10. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a display means for displaying a user interface; After the creation unit creates the color conversion table for each of the at least one color space, the display unit displays the at least one color space for which the color conversion table has been created on the user interface.

1. An information processing device comprising:

11. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The image forming apparatus further includes a color conversion unit that converts the color of the document data into the color of an image formed by an image forming device for each of the at least one color space using the color conversion table.

1. An information processing device comprising:

12. A program for causing a computer to function as the information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; an image forming apparatus; an image scanner; An image forming system comprising:

14. A method for creating a color conversion table by an information processing device that has an input receiving means, a positioning means, and a creating means, and performs color matching based on document data and scanned data, comprising: the input receiving means receives input of manuscript data and input of scan data; the alignment means aligns the document data with the scan data, The creating means creates a color conversion table for color matching for at least one color space of an object included in the original data based on the aligned original data and the scanned data. A method for creating a color conversion table.

Images