Printing system and method for controlling the printing system

Abstract

In configurations where multiple colorimetric means are available, the most suitable colorimetric means can be automatically determined. [Solution] The colorimetric control unit 307 measures the color patches placed on the chart printed out from the image forming apparatus 101 and obtains the colorimetric values. The storage unit 234 holds specification information indicating the specifications of the colorimetric means. The colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 sets setting information linked to the specification information. The color accuracy control unit 315 adjusts the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus 101 according to the colorimetric values. When the printing system has multiple colorimetric means, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines which colorimetric means to use to obtain the colorimetric values ​​from the multiple colorimetric means based on the specification information linked to the set setting information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a printing system and a method for controlling the printing system.

Background Art

[0002] In the field of commercial printing, high-quality printing output results are increasingly demanded. Therefore, an information processing device that controls an image forming apparatus may be equipped with various color management functions for improving color quality. Examples of such functions include a proofing function for periodically verifying the color quality of an image forming apparatus, a color profile creation function for converting an input signal value into a signal value in the CMYK color space of the image forming apparatus, a calibration function between the information processing device and the image forming apparatus, and the like. These functions can be realized, for example, by printing a chart in which color patches corresponding to target colors are arranged on a sheet to be used for creating a color profile, measuring the color values of each color patch with a colorimeter (hereinafter also referred to as a color measurement sensor), and based on the comparison result between the target color and the measured value.

[0003] In recent years, in addition to an external color measurement sensor that requires manual color measurement, a configuration has been proposed in which a color measurement sensor is provided inside an image forming apparatus to complete color measurement inline. By applying such a configuration, it becomes possible to automatically execute from the measurement by the color measurement sensor to the creation of a color profile only by printing a color patch, and it is expected to improve convenience such as eliminating the need for user operation. In addition, the diversification of inline color measurement sensors has advanced, and a configuration has been proposed in which a plurality of inline color measurement sensors are provided in one system and an external color measurement sensor can be used. Since each color measurement sensor has its own standard, it is desirable to use a chart output by the image forming apparatus that conforms to the standard of the color measurement sensor to be used. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for determining whether color measurement can be performed by the color measurement sensor based on the chart layout information held by the image forming apparatus and the specification information of the color measurement sensor, and presenting the result to the user.

Prior Art Documents

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-16499 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] In situations where multiple inline colorimeters exist within a system, it is conceivable that users would need to consider the characteristics of each colorimeter in addition to its ability to measure color to select the sensor to use for color measurement. However, in recent years, inline colorimeters have become increasingly diverse, making it increasingly difficult for users to judge the characteristics of each sensor and its ability to measure color, and then select the sensor to use for color measurement.

[0006] In view of the above problems, the present invention aims to enable the automatic determination of the most suitable colorimetric means when multiple colorimetric means are available. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The printing system according to the present invention is a printing system that forms a color image on paper using an image forming apparatus, and is characterized by comprising: a colorimetric means for measuring the color of color patches arranged on a chart printed out from the image forming apparatus and acquiring colorimetric values; a holding means for holding specification information indicating the specifications of the colorimetric means; a first setting means for setting setting information associated with the specification information; an adjustment means for adjusting the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus according to the colorimetric values; and, when the printing system has a plurality of colorimetric means, a determination means for determining which colorimetric means to be used to acquire the colorimetric values ​​from the plurality of colorimetric means based on the specification information associated with the setting information set by the first setting means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, when a configuration is available in which multiple colorimetric means can be used, it becomes possible to automatically determine the colorimetric means that is more suitable for the purpose. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows an example of a printing system configuration. [Figure 2] This diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of a printing system. [Figure 3] This is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a printing system. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of paper characteristics information and color profile information. [Figure 5] This diagram shows an example of a paper information registration screen. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the new color profile creation screen. [Figure 7] This diagram shows an example of the colorimeter sensor priority setting screen. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a colorimetric sensor specification information table. [Figure 9A] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device. [Figure 9B] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device. [Figure 9C] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by an image forming apparatus. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a notification screen corresponding to the color measurement results. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the new color profile creation screen. [Figure 13A] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device. [Figure 13B] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device. [Figure 14]It is a diagram showing an example of a color measurement sensor priority setting screen. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of an information processing device.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate description is omitted. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims, and not all combinations of the features described in the embodiments are essential for the solution means of the invention.

[0011] <First Embodiment> Referring to FIG. 1, an example of the configuration of a printing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the printing system according to the present embodiment, an image forming apparatus 101 and an information processing apparatus 103 are interconnected so as to be communicable via a network 102. In the example shown in FIG. 1, an example of the configuration when one information processing apparatus 103 is provided in the printing system is shown, but a configuration in which the image forming apparatus 101 and each of a plurality of information processing apparatuses are communicably connected via a network 100 may be applied. Further, in the present embodiment, as an example of the configuration of the printing system, various explanations will be given focusing on the case including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, but the configuration of the printing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited.

[0012] The image forming apparatus 101 has a reading function for reading an image on a sheet and a printing function for printing an image on a sheet. Further, the image forming apparatus 101 may have a post-processing function of binding a plurality of sheets on which an image is printed, aligning a plurality of sheets, or dividing the discharge destination of a plurality of sheets into a plurality of trays. The sheet includes paper such as plain paper, thick paper, coated paper, and film.

[0013] The information processing device 103 is primarily a device that processes print job data input to the image forming apparatus 101. As a specific example, the information processing device 103 provides functions as a kind of server device, performing correction, editing, high-speed RIP processing, and storage and management of print job data input from a PC 105 or the like connected via the network 100. The functions of the information processing device 103 may also be implemented as part of the functions of the image forming apparatus 101 itself. Furthermore, the information processing device 103 may be equipped with various input / output devices substantially similar to those provided by the PC 105, such as a monitor 104.

[0014] The external colorimeter 106 is interconnected with the information processing device 103 via a serial bus 107. The external colorimeter 106 is equipped with a colorimeter sensor, which will be described separately, and uses this colorimeter sensor to measure the color of an image on a sheet (e.g., a color chart) read by the image forming apparatus 101, and outputs the result (colorimeter value). The value measured by the external colorimeter 106 (colorimeter value) is input to the information processing device 103 and used for adjusting color accuracy, etc., according to that value.

[0015] Referring to Figure 2, an example of the hardware configuration of the printing system according to the first embodiment will be described. The image forming apparatus 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, RAM (Random Access Memory) 202, ROM (Read Only Memory) 203, and a storage unit 204. The image forming apparatus 101 also includes a video interface 205, a network interface 206, an accessory interface 207, a paper feed deck interface 208, an engine interface 209, and a display unit 215. These components of the image forming apparatus 101 are connected via a bus 220 to enable the transmission and reception of data signals and control signals to and from each other.

[0016] The video interface 205 is connected to the video interface 235 of the information processing device 103 via the video cable 291, and transmits and receives image data between it and the information processing device 103. NW I / F 206 is connected to NW I / F 236 on the information processing device 103 via LAN cable 290, and transmits and receives various types of information, such as print jobs, between it and the information processing device 103. The Accessory I / F207 connects the image forming apparatus 101 to a paper ejection device for paper ejection and a post-processing device for applying post-processing to printed paper, and communicates with these devices. The paper feed deck I / F 208 is connected to the paper feed deck 211, which loads paper internally and feeds it continuously at appropriate timings, and communicates with the paper feed deck 211. The engine I / F 209 is connected to the printer engine 210, which controls image output and paper transport, and communicates with the printer engine 210. The printer engine 210 also controls the operation of multiple colorimetric sensors, such as colorimetric sensor A212, colorimetric sensor B213, and colorimetric sensor C214. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 is described as having the three colorimetric sensors described above, but this does not limit the configuration of the image forming apparatus 101. The values ​​measured by colorimetric sensor A212, colorimetric sensor B213, or colorimetric sensor C214 (colorimetric values) are notified to the information processing device 103, for example, via the NW I / F 206.

[0017] The information processing device 103 includes a CPU 231, RAM 232, ROM 233, storage unit 234, video interface 235, network interface 236, external network interface 237, display interface 238, and serial interface 239. These components of the information processing device 103 are connected to each other via a bus 240 so that data signals and control signals can be sent and received from one another.

[0018] The video interface 235 is connected to the video interface 205 of the image forming apparatus 101 via the video cable 291, and transmits and receives image data between it and the image forming apparatus 101. The NW I / F 236 is connected to the NW I / F 206 of the image forming apparatus 101 via the LAN cable 290, and for example, it transmits and receives various information such as print jobs between it and the image forming apparatus 101. The external NW I / F 237 is connected to network 100 and controls communication with external devices such as PC 105 via network 100. The display interface 238 is connected to the display unit 250 of the monitor 104 via the video cable 292, causing the display unit 250 to display an image. The serial I / F 239 is connected to the serial I / F 270 of the external colorimeter 106 via the serial bus 293, and communicates with the external colorimeter 106. The external colorimeter 106 is equipped with a colorimeter sensor 271, and notifies the information processing device 103 of the value (colorimeter value) measured by the colorimeter sensor 271 via the serial I / F 270.

[0019] Referring to Figure 3, an example of the functional configuration of the printing system according to this embodiment will be described. The image forming apparatus 101 includes a print job control unit 301, a printer control unit 302, and a colorimetric control unit 307. The functions of these components are realized, for example, by the CPU 201 of the image forming apparatus 101 loading a program stored in the ROM 203 into the RAM 202 and executing it.

[0020] The print job control unit 301 receives a print job from, for example, the print job control unit 311 of the information processing device 103 via the NW I / F 236, interprets the print job, and then issues instructions to the printer control unit 302 regarding print control based on the content of the print job. The printer control unit 302 includes a print control unit 303, a paper feed control unit 304, a transport control unit 305, and a reading control unit 306, and operates according to the instructions of the print job control unit 301. The print control unit 303 processes the image data received from the print job control unit 301 and controls the printing operation of the printer engine 210 via the engine I / F 209.

[0021] The paper feed control unit 304 controls the operation related to the feeding of sheets into the transport path by the paper feed deck 211 via the paper feed deck I / 208, based on the specifications in the print job. The transport control unit 305 controls the transport of sheets fed from the paper feed deck 211 along the transport path. The reading control unit 306 controls the reading of the sheet by the colorimeter sensor A212, colorimeter sensor B213, and colorimeter sensor C214 via the engine I / F 209 of the image forming apparatus 101, in accordance with instructions from the colorimeter control unit 307. The color measurement control unit 307 issues a color measurement instruction to the reading control unit 306 if the print job includes a color measurement instruction, based on the contents of the print job interpreted by the print job control unit 301. Upon receiving the color measurement instruction from the color measurement control unit 307, the reading control unit 306 causes the color measurement sensor A212, color measurement sensor B213, or color measurement sensor C214 to perform a color measurement operation and notifies the resulting color measurement value to the color measurement control unit 307. The color measurement control unit 307 also notifies the color measurement value to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103 via the NW I / F 206, LAN cable 290, and the NW I / F 236 of the information processing device 103.

[0022] The information processing device 103 includes a print job control unit 311, a paper information management unit 312, and a color accuracy control unit 315. The functions of these components are realized, for example, by the CPU 231 of the information processing device 103 loading programs stored in the ROM 233 into the RAM 232 and executing them.

[0023] The print job control unit 311 generates print jobs based on data received from an external device such as a PC 105 via an external network interface 237. The print job control unit 311 then feeds the generated print jobs to the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 via a network interface 236, a LAN cable 290, and a network interface 206 provided by the image forming apparatus 101. The print job control unit 311 also feeds the image data of the print jobs to the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 via a video interface 235, a video cable 291, and a video interface 205 provided by the image forming apparatus 101.

[0024] The paper information management unit 312 includes a color profile management unit 313 and a paper characteristics management unit 314. The paper characteristics management unit 314 manages information for managing the paper characteristics controlled by the printer control unit 302 of the image forming apparatus 101 in the storage unit 234. The color profile management unit 313 manages the color profiles corresponding to each paper characteristic managed by the paper characteristic management unit 314 in the storage unit 234.

[0025] The color accuracy control unit 315 controls, for example, the operation of the color profile management unit 313 provided in the paper information management unit 312 to create and update color profiles corresponding to paper characteristics. The color accuracy control unit 315 also instructs the print job control unit 311 to create a chart job for color profile creation. Then, the color accuracy control unit 315 receives color measurement values ​​corresponding to the chart job from the color measurement control unit 307 provided in the image forming apparatus 101 via the NW I / F 236, LAN cable 290, and the NW I / F 206 provided in the image forming apparatus 101. The color measurement results of the chart job may also be received from the color measurement control unit 321 provided in the external color measurement device 106 via the serial I / F 239, serial bus 293, and the serial I / F 270 provided in the external color measurement device 106. The color accuracy control unit 315 creates a new color profile from the received color measurement values ​​and registers it with the color profile management unit 313 provided in the paper information management unit 312. Furthermore, the color accuracy control unit 315 includes a colorimetric sensor determination unit 316. The colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 acquires colorimetric sensor information held by the image forming apparatus 101 via the NW I / F 236, the LAN cable 290, and the NW I / F 206 provided by the image forming apparatus 101, and stores it in the storage unit 234.

[0026] The external colorimeter 106 has a colorimeter control unit 321. The colorimeter control unit 321 measures the color of a chart on which color patches output by the image forming apparatus 101 are placed, in response to user input. Then, the colorimeter control unit 321 notifies the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing apparatus 103 of the colorimeter result via the serial I / F 270, the serial bus 293, and the serial I / F 239 of the information processing apparatus 103.

[0027] Figure 4(A) shows an example of paper characteristic information 400 stored in the storage unit 234 of the information processing device 103. The paper characteristic information 400 is managed by the paper characteristic management unit 314 of the paper information management unit 312 of the information processing device 103. However, the paper characteristic information 400 may also be stored and managed in the storage unit 204 of the image forming apparatus 101 and acquired via the NW I / F 236, LAN cable 290, and NW I / F 206 of the image forming apparatus 101. The paper characteristics information 400 includes a paper ID 401, a paper name 402, a paper size 403, a paper width 404, a paper height 405, a basis weight 406, a surface finish 407, and a color profile ID 408 associated with this information. Paper ID 401 is an internal ID assigned in a way that allows for the unique determination of paper information. Color profile ID 408 is information used to link, via internal ID 421, which color profile among those stored in color profile information 420 (explained with reference to Figure 4(B)) to be assigned. The paper name (402), paper size (403), paper width (404), paper height (405), basis weight (406), and surface finish (407) are all pieces of information indicating the characteristics of the paper in question. Since this information is generally known as a characteristic of paper, a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0028] Figure 4(B) shows an example of color profile information 420 stored in the storage unit 234 of the information processing device 103. The color profile information 420 is managed by the color profile management unit 313 of the information processing device 103. However, the color profile information 420 may also be stored and managed in the storage unit 204 of the image forming apparatus 101 and acquired via the NW I / F 236, LAN cable 290, and NW I / F 206 of the image forming apparatus 101. The color profile information 420 includes a color profile ID 421, a color profile name 422, and a number of conversion parameters 423. The color profile ID 421 is an internal ID assigned to uniquely determine the color profile information. The conversion parameter 423 is created by the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103 through a new color profile creation process.

[0029] Referring to Figure 5, an example of a paper information registration screen 500, which is displayed on the display unit 250 of the monitor 104 connected via the display unit I / F 238 of the information processing device 103, will be described. Note that the paper information registration screen 500 may also be displayed on the display unit 215 of the image forming apparatus 101. The paper information registration screen 500 has input areas for receiving input from the user for paper name setting 501, paper size setting 502, paper width setting 503, paper height setting 504, basis weight setting 506, surface finish setting 507, and color profile setting 508. The various paper characteristic information received through these input areas is registered in the paper characteristic information 400 managed by the paper characteristic management unit 314. The color profile setting 508 specifies the color profile associated with the paper characteristics registered on the paper information registration screen 500. Alternatively, the color profile setting 508 may specify an existing color profile stored in the color profile information 420 managed by the color profile management unit 313, using the color profile name 422. Furthermore, the color profile setting 508 may also specify that a new color profile should be created for the currently registered paper information.

[0030] When the OK button 511 is pressed, the paper information to be registered is confirmed. If "Create New" was selected in the color profile settings 508 on the paper information registration screen 500, the system will transition to the new color profile creation screen 600 shown in Figure 6.

[0031] Referring to Figure 6, an example of the new color profile creation screen 600 displayed on the display unit 250 of the monitor 104 connected to the information processing device 103 will be described. Note that the new color profile creation screen 600 may also be displayed on the display unit 215 of the image forming apparatus 101. The new color profile creation screen 600 has input areas for receiving input from the user for profile name setting 601, paper feed tray selection setting 602, and colorimetric sensor setting 603. Profile name setting 601 is information used to identify the color profile to be created. The paper feed tray selection setting 602 is information for specifying the paper feed deck 211 of the image forming apparatus 101 to which the paper for which the color profile is to be created is assigned. It is sufficient to be able to select the paper to which the color profile is to be created; the paper feed deck 211 to which the paper for which the color profile is to be created is automatically selected. In this case, for example, information about the paper feed deck 211 of the image forming apparatus 101 may be obtained via the NW I / F 236, LAN cable 290, and NW I / F 206 of the image forming apparatus 101, and the paper feed deck 211 may be selected based on this information. The colorimetric sensor setting 603 is a setting related to the selection of a colorimetric means to be applied to measuring the color of the color chart output by the image forming apparatus 101. In the example shown in Figure 6, an example is shown in which the colorimetric sensor 271 of the external colorimetric device 106 connected to the information processing device 103 and the colorimetric sensors A212, B213, and C214 of the image forming apparatus 101 are available for use. Therefore, in the input area of ​​the colorimetric sensor setting 603, each of the series of colorimetric means exemplified above is displayed as a selection target, and in addition to these, priority setting 04 is displayed as a selection target.

[0032] If the OK button 611 is pressed, and priority setting 604 is not selected in the colorimetric sensor setting 603, the process transitions to the new color profile creation process flow. On the other hand, if priority setting 604 is selected in the colorimetric sensor setting 603, the color profile registration process is executed based on the priority information set on the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 shown in Figure 7.

[0033] Referring to Figure 7, an example of the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700, which is displayed on the display unit 250 of the monitor 104 connected to the information processing device 103, will be described. Note that the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 may also be displayed on the display unit 215 of the image forming apparatus 101. The colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 has input areas for receiving input from the user for automatic priority setting information 701 and priority setting information 702, respectively. In the example shown in Figure 7, the priority setting information 702 is configured to allow the user to select one of the following settings: speed priority setting 711, energy saving priority setting 712, and in-plane uniformity priority setting 713. Each of these priority settings is linked to the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800 shown in Figure 8. If the OK button 721 is pressed, the settings specified via the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 will be applied. On the other hand, if the Cancel button 722 is pressed, the settings specified via the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 will not be applied, and the system will return to the calling screen. In addition, the part of the information processing device 103 that receives a designation via the priority setting information 702 in the color measurement sensor priority setting screen 700 and sets the setting information based on that designation corresponds to an example of the first setting means.

[0034] Referring to Figure 8, an example of the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800 will be described. The colorimetric sensor specification information table 800 is stored in the storage unit 234 of the information processing device 103 and managed by the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316. The example shown in Figure 8 shows a case in which the colorimetric sensor 271 of the external colorimetric device 106 connected to the information processing device 103 and the colorimetric sensors A212, B213, and C214 of the image forming apparatus 101 are all available for use.

[0035] The colorimetric sensor specification information table 800 contains external colorimetric sensor specification information 801, inline sensor A specification information 802, inline sensor B specification information 803, and inline sensor C specification information 805. Each specification information table holds specification information corresponding to the setting information for automatic priority setting 811, speed priority setting 812, energy saving priority setting 813, and in-plane uniformity priority setting 814. In this embodiment, the specifications of inline sensor A are to be excellent in terms of automaticity and in-plane uniformity. The specifications of inline sensor B are to be excellent in terms of automaticity and color measurement time. The specifications of inline sensor C are to be excellent in terms of automaticity and energy saving due to a small number of output sheets. For example, inline sensor A is characterized by performing color measurement on a surface of the chart using a line sensor, and excels at guaranteeing uniformity within the surface. Inline sensor B is characterized by being fixedly positioned on the transport path of the output chart, and excels in color measurement speed because it can measure color while transporting. On the other hand, inline sensor B has a one-dimensional color measurement direction, so the number of patches that can be placed per chart is small, and the number of charts that can be output is large. Inline sensor C is positioned on the transport path of the output chart and is movable in the main scanning direction, and excels at reducing the number of charts that can be output because it can measure color in two dimensions, allowing for a large number of patches to be placed per chart. On the other hand, inline sensor C has a slower color measurement speed because it measures color by moving the sensor in two dimensions. These characteristics of each sensor are stored in the storage unit 234 of the information processing device as a colorimetric sensor specification information table 800 and are managed by the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316.

[0036] Referring to Figures 9 to 11, an example of a process in which a system automatically determines which colorimeter to use based on the specification information of each colorimeter and the priority setting information associated with that specification information, in a configuration having multiple colorimeters within a single system, will be described. Figures 9A to 9C are flowcharts showing an example of processing by the information processing device 103. The series of processes shown in Figures 9A to 9C are realized, for example, by the CPU 231 of the information processing device 103 loading a program stored in ROM 233 into RAM 232 and executing it. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the image forming apparatus 101. The series of processes shown in Figure 10 are realized, for example, by the CPU 201 of the image forming apparatus 101 loading a program stored in ROM 203 into RAM 202 and executing it. Figure 11 shows an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 250 of the monitor 104 connected to the information processing device 103 when the series of processes shown in Figures 9A to 9C and Figure 10 are executed.

[0037] First, let's explain Figure 9A. The series of processes indicated by S9000 in Figure 9A are initiated, for example, when the OK button 511 is pressed on the paper information registration screen 500 shown in Figure 5. In S9001, the paper characteristics management unit 314 of the information processing device 103 accepts input of paper information via the paper information registration screen 500 shown in Figure 5. In S9002, the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines whether or not "Create New" is specified in the color profile setting 508 provided on the paper information registration screen 500. If the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines in S9002 that a new color profile has not been specified in the color profile setting 508 (i.e., an existing color profile has been specified), it proceeds to S9007. In this case, in S9007, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the received paper information in the paper characteristics information 400 and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 9A. On the other hand, if the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines in S9002 that a new creation has been specified in the color profile setting 508, it proceeds to S9003.

[0038] In S9003, the paper characteristics management unit 314 instructs the color profile management unit 313 to create a new color profile, and transitions to the new color profile creation screen 600 shown in Figure 6. The color profile management unit 313 accepts input of color profile setting information from the user via the new color profile creation screen 600. When the OK button on the new color profile creation screen 600 is pressed, the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 whether or not priority setting 604 is specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603. If the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 that priority setting 604 is specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603, it proceeds to S9005. In S9005, the color profile management unit 313 instructs the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316, which is part of the color accuracy control unit 315, to execute the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process. On the other hand, if the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 that priority setting 604 is not specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603 (i.e., a setting other than priority setting 604 is specified), it proceeds to S9006. In this case, the process in S9005 is skipped. In S9006, the color profile management unit 313 instructs the color accuracy control unit 315 to execute the color profile registration process.

[0039] Now, referring to Figure 9B, we will explain in more detail the contents of the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process indicated by S9005 in Figure 9A. When the automatic color measurement sensor selection process is started, in S9011, the color measurement sensor determination unit 316 refers to the automatic priority setting information 701 and priority setting information 702 on the color measurement sensor priority setting screen 700. In S9012, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether or not the automatic priority setting information 701 is selected. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9012 that the automatic priority setting information 701 has not been selected, it proceeds to S9013. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies an external colorimetric sensor as the colorimetric sensor to be used in S9013, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 9B. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9012 that the automatic priority setting information 701 has been selected, it proceeds to S9014.

[0040] In S9014, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 refers to the setting selected in the priority setting information 702 and switches the subsequent processing according to the selected setting. Here, it is assumed that one of the following settings is selected in the priority setting information 702: "Priority to in-plane uniformity", "Priority to speed", and "Priority to energy saving". If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that priority for in-plane uniformity has been selected, it proceeds to S9015. In this case, in S9015, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies inline sensor A based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 9B. Furthermore, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that speed priority has been selected, it proceeds to S9016. In this case, in S9016, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies inline sensor B based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 9B. Furthermore, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that energy saving priority has been selected, it proceeds to S9017. In this case, in S9017, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies the inline sensor C based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 9B.

[0041] Next, with reference to Figure 9C, the contents of the color profile registration process, indicated by S9006 in Figure 9A, will be explained in more detail. In S9021, the color accuracy control unit 315 instructs the print job control unit 311 to create a chart color measurement job. At this time, if the automatic color measurement sensor selection process S9005 has been executed previously, the color accuracy control unit 315 specifies the sensor selected in the automatic color measurement sensor selection process flow as the sensor to be used for color measurement in the chart color measurement job settings. In S9022, the print job control unit 311 transmits the chart color measurement job created in S9021 to the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0042] In S9023, the print job control unit 311 determines whether the chart color measurement job setting is manual color measurement or not. If the print job control unit 311 determines in S9023 that the chart color measurement job setting is manual color measurement, it proceeds to S9024. In S9024, the print job control unit 311 displays a screen 1100 instructing the user to perform manual color measurement, as shown in Figure 11(A). On the other hand, if the print job control unit 311 determines in S9023 that the chart color measurement job setting is not manual color measurement, it proceeds to S9025. In this case, the process in S9024 is skipped. In S9025, the print job control unit 311 instructs the color accuracy control unit 315 to wait for the chart color measurement results from the chart color measurement job transmitted in S9022.

[0043] Here, referring to Figure 10, an example of the processing of the image forming apparatus 101 will be explained, focusing on the processing when a chart color measurement job transmitted from the print job control unit 311 of the information processing apparatus 103 is received. In S10001, the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 receives a chart color measurement job transmitted from the print job control unit 311 of the information processing apparatus 103 in the process shown in S9022 in Figure 9C. In S10002, the print job control unit 301 analyzes the chart color measurement job received in S10001, and based on the results of the analysis, instructs the print control unit 303, which is located in the printer control unit 302, to print the chart color measurement job.

[0044] In step S10003, the print job control unit 301 determines which colorimeter is specified for the chart colorimeter job and switches the subsequent processing according to the specified colorimeter. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that an external colorimeter has been specified for the chart colorimeter job, it terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 10. However, in this case, the printed chart is colorimetered by the colorimeter control unit 321 of the external colorimeter 106 in response to instructions from the user, and the colorimeter result is notified to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using inline sensor A is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10004. In S10004, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using inline sensor A. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using inline sensor A. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using the inline sensor B is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10005. In S10005, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using the inline sensor B. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using the inline sensor B. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using the inline sensor C is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10006. In S10006, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using the inline sensor C. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using the inline sensor C. In step S10007, the colorimetric control unit 307 transmits the chart colorimetric result to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103, and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 10.

[0045] Now, let's refer to Figure 9C again. In S9025, the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103 receives the chart color measurement result from the color measurement control unit 307 of the image forming apparatus 101 or the color measurement control unit 321 of the external colorimeter 106. In S9026, the color accuracy control unit 315 performs a color profile creation process based on the chart colorimetric results received in S9025. When the color accuracy control unit 315 has completed the creation of the color profile, it displays a color profile creation completion screen 1110, as shown in Figure 11(B), in S9027. This allows the user to judge the validity of the color profile based on the chart colorimetric measurement results via the color profile creation completion screen 1110 and instruct the information processing device 103 whether or not to apply the color profile. In S9028, the color accuracy control unit 315 determines whether or not the OK button 1111 was pressed on the color profile creation completion screen 1110. If the color accuracy control unit 315 determines in S9028 that the OK button 1111 has been pressed, it proceeds to S9029. In S9029, the color accuracy control unit 315 registers the created color profile in the color profile information 420 managed by the color profile management unit 313, and terminates the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. On the other hand, if the color accuracy control unit 315 determines in S9028 that the OK button 1111 was not pressed (i.e., the Cancel button 1112 was pressed), it terminates the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. In this case, the registration of the color profile to the color profile information 420 in S9029 is skipped.

[0046] Now, let's refer to Figure 9A again. In S9007, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the paper information received in S9001 into the paper characteristics information 400. At this time, if color profile information has been previously registered in S9006, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the paper information into the paper characteristics information 400 based on that color profile information. Once the registration of the paper information is complete, the paper characteristics management unit 314 terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 9A.

[0047] As described above, according to this embodiment, in a configuration having multiple colorimetric sensors within a single system, it is possible to automatically determine which colorimetric sensor to use within the system based on the specification information of each colorimetric sensor and the setting information associated with that specification information.

[0048] <Second Embodiment> In the first embodiment described above, an example of a technology was explained that enables the system to automatically determine which colorimeter to use based on the specification information of each colorimeter and the setting information associated with that specification information. On the other hand, inline colorimeters provided by the image forming apparatus 101 (for example, colorimeters A212, B213, C214, etc.) may have difficulty measuring color depending on the paper characteristics due to the influence of the internal mechanisms of the equipment. In light of this situation, in the second embodiment of this disclosure, an example of a configuration for determining whether color measurement is possible with the colorimeters provided by the image forming apparatus 101 when selecting a colorimeter to use is described.

[0049] Figure 12 shows an example in the new color profile creation screen 600 where the paper characteristics for which a new color profile is to be created are difficult to measure using the colorimeter sensor A212 provided by the image forming apparatus 101. In the example shown in Figure 12, because the paper characteristics for which a new profile is to be created are difficult to measure using the colorimeter sensor A212, the colorimeter sensor A212 is grayed out as a colorimeter-unmeasurable sensor 1201, for example, to restrict the acceptance of its selection. However, the method for restricting the acceptance of selection of the target colorimeter sensor is not particularly limited, as long as it is possible to do so. As a specific example, the acceptance of selection of the target colorimeter sensor may be restricted by controlling the system so that the colorimeter sensor is not displayed in the colorimeter sensor setting 603. In this embodiment, we will describe an example of the configuration and control when priority setting 604 is selected, under circumstances where the system includes colorimetric sensors for which acceptance of specified requests is restricted.

[0050] Figures 13A and 13B show an example of the processing of the information processing device 103 according to this embodiment, specifically an example of the processing that determines whether color measurement is possible using the color measurement sensor provided by the image forming apparatus 101 when selecting a color measurement sensor to be used. The process that calls the process indicated by S9005 in Figure 13A is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 9A. The content of the process S9006 in Figure 9A is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 9C. The processing on the image forming apparatus 101 side is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 10. The series of processes shown in Figures 13A and 13B are realized, for example, by the CPU 231 of the information processing device 103 loading the program stored in ROM 233 into RAM 232 and executing it.

[0051] The series of processes indicated by S9000 in Figure 9A are initiated, for example, when the OK button 511 is pressed on the paper information registration screen 500 shown in Figure 5. In S9001, the paper characteristics management unit 314 of the information processing device 103 accepts input of paper information via the paper information registration screen 500 shown in Figure 5. In S9002, the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines whether or not "Create New" is specified in the color profile setting 508 provided on the paper information registration screen 500. If the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines in S9002 that new creation is not specified in the color profile setting 508, it proceeds to S9007. In this case, in S9007, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the received paper information to the paper characteristics information 400 and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 9A. On the other hand, if the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines in S9002 that a new creation has been specified in the color profile setting 508, it proceeds to S9003.

[0052] In S9003, the paper characteristics management unit 314 instructs the color profile management unit 313 to create a new color profile, and transitions to the new color profile creation screen 600 shown in Figure 6. The color profile management unit 313 accepts input of color profile setting information from the user via the new color profile creation screen 600. When the OK button on the new color profile creation screen 600 is pressed, the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 whether or not priority setting 604 is specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603. If the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 that priority setting 604 is specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603, it proceeds to S9005. In S9005, the color profile management unit 313 instructs the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316, which is part of the color accuracy control unit 315, to execute the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process. On the other hand, if the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 that priority setting 604 is not specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603 (i.e., a setting other than priority setting 604 is specified), it proceeds to S9006. In this case, the process in S9005 is skipped. In S9006, the color profile management unit 313 instructs the color accuracy control unit 315 to execute the color profile registration process.

[0053] Now, referring to Figure 13A, the contents of the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process, indicated by S9005 in Figure 9A, will be explained in more detail in the case of this embodiment. When the automatic color measurement sensor selection process is started, in S9011, the color measurement sensor determination unit 316 refers to the automatic priority setting information 701 and priority setting information 702 on the color measurement sensor priority setting screen 700. In S9012, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether or not the automatic priority setting information 701 is selected. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9012 that the automatic priority setting information 701 is not selected, it proceeds to S9013. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies an external colorimetric sensor as the colorimetric sensor to be used in S9013, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 13A. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9012 that the automatic priority setting information 701 has been selected, it proceeds to S9014.

[0054] In S9014, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 refers to the setting selected in the priority setting information 702 and switches the subsequent processing according to the selected setting. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that priority for in-plane uniformity has been selected, it proceeds to S9015. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies inline sensor A in S9015 based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800. Furthermore, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that speed priority is selected, it proceeds to S9016. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies inline sensor B in S9016 based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800. Furthermore, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that energy saving priority has been selected, it proceeds to S9017. In this case, in S9017, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies the inline sensor C based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800. In S13001, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 performs a process to determine whether the selected sensor can be used.

[0055] Now, referring to Figure 13B, we will explain in more detail the content of the process for determining whether the selection sensor can be used, which is indicated by S13001 in Figure 13A. In S13101, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 obtains the optional configuration of the colorimetric sensor provided by the image forming apparatus 101 from the colorimetric control unit 307 provided by the image forming apparatus 101. In S13102, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether the selected sensor is included in the optional configuration acquired in S13001. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13102 that the selected sensor is not included in the optional configuration, it proceeds to S13106. In S13106, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines that the selected sensor is unusable and terminates the selection sensor usability determination process S13001 shown in Figure 13B. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13102 that the selected sensor is included in the optional configuration, it proceeds to S13103.

[0056] In S13103, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 obtains support paper information for each colorimetric sensor provided by the image forming apparatus 101 from the colorimetric control unit 307 provided by the image forming apparatus 101. However, the support paper information for each colorimetric sensor may be in the form held by the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 provided by the information processing device 103. In S13104, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether the paper information received by the paper characteristics management unit 314 in S9001 falls within the range of supported paper indicated by the supported paper information acquired in S13103. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13104 that the paper information is within the supported paper range, it proceeds to S13105. In S13105, the colorimetric sensor determination unit determines that the selection sensor is usable and terminates the selection sensor usability determination process S13001 shown in Figure 13B. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13104 that the paper information is outside the supported paper range, it proceeds to S13106. In S13106, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines that the selection sensor is unusable and terminates the selection sensor usability determination process S13001 shown in Figure 13B.

[0057] Now, let's refer to Figure 13A again. In S13002, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether or not the selected sensor was determined to be usable in the processing of S13001. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13002 that the selected sensor is usable, it terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 13A. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13002 that the selected sensor is unavailable, it proceeds to S9013. In S9013, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies an external colorimetric sensor as the colorimetric sensor to be used, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 13A. In the process of S13001, the selection sensor used to determine whether it is usable or not corresponds to an example of the first colorimetric means. Furthermore, if the selection sensor is determined to be unusable, the external colorimetric sensor used in its place corresponds to an example of a second colorimetric means different from the first colorimetric means.

[0058] When the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 13A is completed, the color accuracy control unit 315 executes the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. In S9021, the color accuracy control unit 315 instructs the print job control unit 311 to create a chart color measurement job. At this time, if the automatic color measurement sensor selection process S9005 has been executed previously, the color accuracy control unit 315 specifies the sensor selected in the automatic color measurement sensor selection process flow as the sensor to be used for color measurement in the chart color measurement job settings. In S9022, the print job control unit 311 transmits the chart color measurement job created in S9021 to the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0059] In S9023, the print job control unit 311 determines whether the chart color measurement job setting is manual color measurement or not. If the print job control unit 311 determines in S9023 that the chart color measurement job setting is manual color measurement, it proceeds to S9024. In S9024, the print job control unit 311 displays a screen instructing the user to perform manual color measurement, as shown in Figure 11(A). On the other hand, if the print job control unit 311 determines in S9023 that the chart color measurement job setting is not manual color measurement, it proceeds to S9025. In this case, the process in S9024 is skipped. In S9025, the print job control unit 311 instructs the color accuracy control unit 315 to wait for the chart color measurement results from the chart color measurement job transmitted in S9022.

[0060] Now, with reference to Figure 10, the processing of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described. In S10001, the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 receives a chart color measurement job transmitted from the print job control unit 311 of the information processing apparatus 103 in the process shown in S9022 in Figure 9C. In S10002, the print job control unit 301 analyzes the chart color measurement job received in S10001, and based on the results of the analysis, instructs the print control unit 303, which is located in the printer control unit 302, to print the chart color measurement job.

[0061] In step S10003, the print job control unit 301 determines which colorimeter is specified for the chart colorimeter job and switches the subsequent processing according to the specified colorimeter. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that an external colorimeter has been specified for the chart colorimeter job, it terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 10. However, in this case, the printed chart is colorimetered by the colorimeter control unit 321 of the external colorimeter 106 in response to instructions from the user, and the colorimeter result is notified to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using inline sensor A is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10004. In S10004, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using inline sensor A. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using inline sensor A. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using the inline sensor B is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10005. In S10005, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using the inline sensor B. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using the inline sensor B. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using the inline sensor C is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10006. In S10006, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using the inline sensor C. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using the inline sensor C. In step S10007, the colorimetric control unit 307 transmits the chart colorimetric result to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103, and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 10.

[0062] Now, let's refer to Figure 9C again. In S9025, the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103 receives the chart color measurement result from the color measurement control unit 307 of the image forming apparatus 101 or the color measurement control unit 321 of the external colorimeter 106. In S9026, the color accuracy control unit 315 performs a color profile creation process based on the chart colorimetric results received in S9025. When the color accuracy control unit 315 has completed the creation of the color profile, it displays a color profile creation completion screen 1110, as shown in Figure 11(B), in S9027. In S9028, the color accuracy control unit 315 determines whether or not the OK button 1111 was pressed on the color profile creation completion screen 1110. If the color accuracy control unit 315 determines in S9028 that the OK button 1111 has been pressed, it proceeds to S9029. In S9029, the color accuracy control unit 315 registers the created color profile in the color profile information 420 managed by the color profile management unit 313, and terminates the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. On the other hand, if the color accuracy control unit 315 determines in S9028 that the OK button 1111 was not pressed (i.e., the Cancel button 1112 was pressed), it terminates the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. In this case, the registration of the color profile to the color profile information 420 in S9029 is skipped.

[0063] Now, let's refer to Figure 9A again. In S9007, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the paper information received in S9001 into the paper characteristics information 400, and then completes the series of processes shown in Figure 9A.

[0064] As described above, according to this embodiment, in addition to the configuration described in the first embodiment, it is possible to take into account the result of the color measurement capability determination by the color measurement sensor provided in the image forming apparatus 101 when making a decision on the selection of the color measurement sensor.

[0065] <Third Embodiment> In the second embodiment described above, an example of a technology was explained in which the system automatically determines which colorimeter to use based on the specification information of each colorimeter and the setting information associated with that specification information, and further determines whether each colorimeter is capable of measuring color. On the other hand, if color measurement is not possible with the colorimeter determined by the setting information associated with the specification information, it is conceivable that color measurement may be performed with a colorimeter that contradicts the specified priority setting. In light of such a situation, the third embodiment of this disclosure describes an example of a configuration for determining whether a colorimeter can be used according to another priority setting when the colorimeter selected by the priority setting is not capable of measuring color.

[0066] Figure 14 shows an example of the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 displayed on the display unit 250 of the monitor 104 connected to the information processing device 103 in this embodiment. However, the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 may also be displayed on the display unit 215 of the image forming apparatus 101. The colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 includes automatic priority setting information 701 and priority setting information 702. Priority setting information 702 may further include, as an example, speed priority setting 711, energy saving priority setting 712, and in-plane uniformity priority setting 713. In this embodiment, priority setting information 1400 is provided for each priority setting. In this embodiment, the priority setting for speed priority setting 711 is designated as speed priority setting 1401, the priority setting for energy saving priority setting 712 is designated as energy saving priority setting 1402, and the priority setting for in-plane uniformity priority setting 713 is designated as in-plane uniformity priority setting 1403. Each of the speed priority setting 1401, energy saving priority setting 1402, and in-plane uniformity priority setting 1403 is set based on instructions from the user, for example, via the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 shown in Figure 14. Furthermore, of the information processing device 103, the part that receives a designation via the priority setting information 1400 in the colorimetric sensor priority setting screen 700 shown in Figure 14, and sets the priority between the setting information based on the designation, corresponds to an example of the second setting means.

[0067] Figure 15 shows an example of the processing of the information processing device 103 according to this embodiment, in which, when the colorimetric sensor selected by priority setting is unable to measure color, the processing determines whether the colorimetric sensor can be used according to another priority setting. The process that calls the process indicated by S9005 in Figure 15 is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 9A. The content of the process S13001 in Figure 15 is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 13B. The content of the process S9006 in Figure 9A is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 9C. The processing on the image forming apparatus 101 side is substantially the same as the process shown in Figure 10. The series of processes shown in Figure 15 are realized, for example, by the CPU 231 of the information processing device 103 loading the program stored in ROM 233 into RAM 232 and executing it.

[0068] The series of processes indicated by S9000 in Figure 9A are initiated, for example, when the OK button 511 is pressed on the paper information registration screen 500 shown in Figure 5. In S9001, the paper characteristics management unit 314 of the information processing device 103 accepts input of paper information via the paper information registration screen 500 shown in Figure 5. In S9002, the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines whether or not "Create New" is specified in the color profile setting 508 provided on the paper information registration screen 500. If the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines in S9002 that new creation is not specified in the color profile setting 508, it proceeds to S9007. In this case, in S9007, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the received paper information to the paper characteristics information 400 and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 9A. On the other hand, if the paper characteristics management unit 314 determines in S9002 that a new creation has been specified in the color profile setting 508, it proceeds to S9003. In S9003, the paper characteristics management unit 314 instructs the color profile management unit 313 to create a new color profile, and the system transitions to the new color profile creation screen 600 shown in Figure 6.

[0069] In S9003, the paper characteristics management unit 314 instructs the color profile management unit 313 to create a new color profile, and transitions to the new color profile creation screen 600 shown in Figure 6. The color profile management unit 313 accepts input of color profile setting information from the user via the new color profile creation screen 600. When the OK button on the new color profile creation screen 600 is pressed, the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 whether or not priority setting 604 is specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603. If the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 that priority setting 604 is specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603, it proceeds to S9005. In S9005, the color profile management unit 313 instructs the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316, which is part of the color accuracy control unit 315, to execute the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process. On the other hand, if the color profile management unit 313 determines in S9004 that priority setting 604 is not specified in the colorimetric sensor setting 603 (i.e., a setting other than priority setting 604 is specified), it proceeds to S9006. In this case, the process in S9005 is skipped. In S9006, the color profile management unit 313 instructs the color accuracy control unit 315 to execute the color profile registration process.

[0070] Now, referring to Figure 15, the contents of the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process, indicated by S9005 in Figure 9A, will be explained in more detail in the case of this embodiment. When the automatic color measurement sensor selection process is started, in S9011, the color measurement sensor determination unit 316 refers to the automatic priority setting information 701 and priority setting information 702 on the color measurement sensor priority setting screen 700. In S9012, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether or not the automatic priority setting information 701 is selected. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9012 that the automatic priority setting information 701 is not selected, it proceeds to S9013. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies an external colorimetric sensor as the colorimetric sensor to be used in S9013, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 15. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9012 that the automatic priority setting information 701 has been selected, it proceeds to S15001.

[0071] In S15001, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 initializes the priority variable N to 0. In S15002, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 increments the priority variable N. In S15003, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 acquires priority setting information 702 in which priority setting information 1500 is set to priority variable N.

[0072] In S9014, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 refers to the setting selected in the priority setting information 702 and switches the subsequent processing according to the selected setting. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that priority for in-plane uniformity has been selected, it proceeds to S9015. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies inline sensor A in S9015 based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800. Furthermore, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that speed priority is selected, it proceeds to S9016. In this case, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies inline sensor B in S9016 based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800. Furthermore, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S9014 that energy saving priority has been selected, it proceeds to S9017. In this case, in S9017, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 specifies the inline sensor C based on the colorimetric sensor specification information table 800. In S13001, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 performs a process to determine whether the selected sensor can be used.

[0073] Now, refer to Figure 13B. In S13101, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 obtains the optional configuration of the colorimetric sensor provided by the image forming apparatus 101 from the colorimetric control unit 307 provided by the image forming apparatus 101. In S13102, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether the selected sensor is included in the optional configuration acquired in S13001. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13102 that the selected sensor is not included in the optional configuration, it proceeds to S13106. In S13106, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines that the selected sensor is unusable and terminates the selection sensor usability determination process S13001 shown in Figure 13B. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13102 that the selected sensor is included in the optional configuration, it proceeds to S13103.

[0074] In S13103, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 obtains support paper information for each colorimetric sensor provided by the image forming apparatus 101 from the colorimetric control unit 307 provided by the image forming apparatus 101. However, the support paper information for each colorimetric sensor may be in the form held by the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 provided by the information processing device 103. In S13104, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether the paper information received by the paper characteristics management unit 314 in S9001 falls within the range of supported paper indicated by the supported paper information acquired in S13103. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13104 that the paper information is within the supported paper range, it proceeds to S13105. In S13105, the colorimetric sensor determination unit determines that the selection sensor is usable and terminates the selection sensor usability determination process S13001 shown in Figure 13B. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13104 that the paper information is outside the supported paper range, it proceeds to S13106. In S13106, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines that the selection sensor is unusable and terminates the selection sensor usability determination process S13001 shown in Figure 13B.

[0075] Now, let's refer to Figure 15 again. In S13002, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether or not the selected sensor was determined to be usable in the processing of S13001. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13002 that the selected sensor is usable, it terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 15. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S13002 that the selected sensor is unavailable, it proceeds to S15004.

[0076] In S15004, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines whether or not it has covered all priority settings using the priority variable N and determined whether or not it is usable. If the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S15004 that it has not covered all priority settings by the priority variable N and has not determined whether they can be used, it proceeds to S15002. In this case, the processing from S15002 onward is executed again, and the usability of the priority setting information 702 associated with the next priority setting information 1500 is determined. On the other hand, if the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines in S15004 that it has covered all priority settings using the priority variable N and has determined whether or not it can be used, it proceeds to S9013. In S9013, the colorimetric sensor determination unit 316 determines that the inline sensor provided by the image forming apparatus 101 is unusable, specifies an external colorimetric sensor to be used, and then terminates the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 15.

[0077] When the automatic colorimetric sensor selection process S9005 shown in Figure 15 is completed, the color accuracy control unit 315 executes the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. In S9021, the color accuracy control unit 315 instructs the print job control unit 311 to create a chart color measurement job. At this time, if the automatic color measurement sensor selection process S9005 has been executed previously, the color accuracy control unit 315 specifies the sensor selected in the automatic color measurement sensor selection process flow as the sensor to be used for color measurement in the chart color measurement job settings. In S9022, the print job control unit 311 transmits the chart color measurement job created in S9021 to the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0078] In S9023, the print job control unit 311 determines whether the chart color measurement job setting is manual color measurement or not. If the print job control unit 311 determines in S9023 that the chart color measurement job setting is manual color measurement, it proceeds to S9024. In S9024, the print job control unit 311 displays a screen 1100 instructing the user to perform manual color measurement, as shown in Figure 11(A). On the other hand, if the print job control unit 311 determines in S9023 that the chart color measurement job setting is not manual color measurement, it proceeds to S9025. In this case, the process in S9024 is skipped. In S9025, the print job control unit 311 instructs the color accuracy control unit 315 to wait for the chart color measurement results from the chart color measurement job transmitted in S9022.

[0079] Now, with reference to Figure 10, the processing of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described. In S10001, the print job control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 receives a chart color measurement job transmitted from the print job control unit 311 of the information processing apparatus 103 in the process shown in S9022 in Figure 9C. In S10002, the print job control unit 301 analyzes the chart color measurement job received in S10001, and based on the results of the analysis, instructs the print control unit 303, which is located in the printer control unit 302, to print the chart color measurement job.

[0080] In step S10003, the print job control unit 301 determines which colorimeter is specified for the chart colorimeter job and switches the subsequent processing according to the specified colorimeter. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that an external colorimeter has been specified for the chart colorimeter job, it terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 10. However, in this case, the printed chart is colorimetered by the colorimeter control unit 321 of the external colorimeter 106 in response to instructions from the user, and the colorimeter result is notified to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using inline sensor A is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10004. In S10004, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using inline sensor A. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using inline sensor A. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using the inline sensor B is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10005. In S10005, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using the inline sensor B. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using the inline sensor B. If the print job control unit 301 determines in S10003 that color measurement using the inline sensor C is specified for the chart color measurement job, it proceeds to S10006. In S10006, the print job control unit 301 instructs the color measurement control unit 307 to perform color measurement using the inline sensor C. Upon receiving this instruction, the color measurement control unit 307 performs chart color measurement using the inline sensor C. In step S10007, the colorimetric control unit 307 transmits the chart colorimetric result to the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103, and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 10.

[0081] Now, let's refer to Figure 9C again. In S9025, the color accuracy control unit 315 of the information processing device 103 receives the chart color measurement result from the color measurement control unit 307 of the image forming apparatus 101 or the color measurement control unit 321 of the external colorimeter 106. In S9026, the color accuracy control unit 315 performs a color profile creation process based on the chart colorimetric results received in S9025. When the color accuracy control unit 315 has completed the creation of the color profile, it displays a color profile creation completion screen 1110, as shown in Figure 11(B), in S9027. In S9028, the color accuracy control unit 315 determines whether or not the OK button 1111 was pressed on the color profile creation completion screen 1110. If the color accuracy control unit 315 determines in S9028 that the OK button 1111 has been pressed, it proceeds to S9029. In S9029, the color accuracy control unit 315 registers the created color profile in the color profile information 420 managed by the color profile management unit 313, and terminates the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. On the other hand, if the color accuracy control unit 315 determines in S9028 that the OK button 1111 was not pressed (i.e., the Cancel button 1112 was pressed), it terminates the color profile registration process S9006 shown in Figure 9C. In this case, the registration of the color profile to the color profile information 420 in S9029 is skipped.

[0082] Now, let's refer to Figure 9A again. In S9007, the paper characteristics management unit 314 registers the paper information received in S9001 into the paper characteristics information 400, and then completes the series of processes shown in Figure 9A.

[0083] As described above, according to this embodiment, in addition to the configuration described in the second embodiment, by providing a priority setting, it becomes possible to sequentially determine whether color measurement is possible with all the colorimetric sensors provided in the image forming apparatus 101.

[0084] <Other Embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0085] Furthermore, the disclosure of this embodiment includes the following systems, methods, configurations, and programs. (System 1) A printing system for forming a color image on paper using an image forming apparatus, comprising: a colorimetric means for measuring the color of color patches arranged on a chart printed out from the image forming apparatus and acquiring colorimetric values; a holding means for holding specification information indicating the specifications of the colorimetric means; a first setting means for setting setting information associated with the specification information; an adjustment means for adjusting the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus according to the colorimetric values; and, when the printing system has a plurality of colorimetric means, a determination means for determining which colorimetric means to be used to acquire the colorimetric values ​​from the plurality of colorimetric means based on the specification information associated with the setting information set by the first setting means. (System 2) The printing system according to System 1, characterized in that it has an output means for outputting the color measurement result obtained by the colorimetric means determined by the determination means. (System 3) A printing system according to System 1 or 2, comprising a determination means for determining whether or not color measurement is possible using a first colorimetric means determined by the determination means, wherein if the determination means determines that color measurement is not possible using the first colorimetric means, the determination means determines a second colorimetric means different from the first colorimetric means as the colorimetric means to be used to obtain the colorimetric value. (System 4) The printing system according to System 3, further comprising a second setting means for setting a priority for each of a plurality of setting information to be set by the first setting means, wherein the determination means sequentially targets each of the plurality of setting information according to the priority and determines the first colorimetric means to be used to acquire the colorimetric value based on the specification information associated with the setting means, and the judgment means sequentially targets the first colorimetric means determined by the determination means according to the priority and determines whether or not color measurement is possible with the first colorimetric means. (Method 1) A method for controlling a printing system that forms a color image on paper using an image forming apparatus, comprising: a color measurement step of measuring the color of color patches arranged on a chart printed out from the image forming apparatus and obtaining color measurement values; a holding step of holding specification information indicating the specifications of the color measuring means used to measure the color measurement values ​​in the color measurement step; a setting step of setting setting information associated with the specification information; an adjustment step of adjusting the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus according to the color measurement values; and, if the printing system has a plurality of color measuring means, a determination step of determining the color measuring means to be used to obtain the color measurement values ​​from the plurality of color measuring means based on the specification information associated with the setting information set in the setting step. (Configuration 1) An information processing apparatus comprising: setting means for setting setting information linked to specification information indicating the specifications of a colorimetric means that measures the color of color patches arranged on a chart printed out from an image forming apparatus that forms a color image on paper, and acquires colorimetric values ​​used to adjust the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus; and determination means for determining which colorimetric means to use from the multiple colorimetric means to acquire the colorimetric values, based on the specification information linked to the setting information set by the setting means, when multiple colorimetric means can be used to acquire the colorimetric values. (Program 1) A program for causing a computer to function as an information processing device, comprising: setting means for setting setting information associated with specification information indicating the specifications of a colorimetric means that measures the color of color patches arranged on a chart printed out from an image forming apparatus that forms a color image on paper, and acquires colorimetric values ​​used to adjust the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus; and determination means for determining which colorimetric means to use from the multiple colorimetric means to acquire the colorimetric values, based on the specification information associated with the setting information set by the setting means, when multiple colorimetric means can be used to acquire the colorimetric values. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0086] 101 Image forming apparatus 103 Information Processing Device 234 Storage section 315 Color accuracy control unit 316 Color measurement sensor judgment unit

Claims

1. A printing system that forms a color image on paper using an image forming apparatus, A colorimetric means for measuring the color of color patches arranged on a chart printed from the image forming apparatus and obtaining color values, A holding means for holding specification information indicating the specifications of the colorimetric means, A first setting means for setting setting information linked to the aforementioned specification information, An adjustment means for adjusting the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus according to the color measurement value, When the printing system has multiple colorimetric means, a determination means determines which colorimetric means to be used to obtain the colorimetric value from the multiple colorimetric means based on specification information linked to the setting information set by the first setting means, A printing system characterized by having the following features.

2. The printing system according to claim 1, characterized in that it has an output means for outputting the color measurement result obtained by the colorimetric means determined by the determination means.

3. The system has a determination means for determining whether or not color measurement is possible using the first color measuring means determined by the aforementioned determination means, If the determination means determines that color measurement by the first color measuring means is not possible, the determination means determines a second color measuring means, different from the first color measuring means, as the color measuring means to be used to obtain the color measurement value. The printing system according to claim 1, characterized in that...

4. The system includes a second setting means for setting a priority for each of the multiple setting information items that are to be set by the first setting means, The determination means sequentially targets each of the multiple setting information in accordance with the priority order and determines the first colorimetric means to be used to acquire the colorimetric value based on the specification information associated with the setting means. The determination means sequentially targets the first colorimetric means determined by the decision means in accordance with the priority order, and determines whether or not color measurement is possible using the first colorimetric means. The printing system according to claim 3, characterized in that...

5. A control method for a printing system that forms a color image on paper using an image forming apparatus, A color measurement step involves measuring the color of color patches placed on a chart printed from the image forming apparatus and obtaining color measurement values. The color measurement step includes a holding step that holds specification information indicating the specifications of the color measuring means used to measure the color measured value, A setting step to set setting information linked to the aforementioned specification information, An adjustment step to adjust the color accuracy of the image printed out by the image forming apparatus according to the color measurement value, When the printing system has multiple colorimetric means, a determination step is made to determine which colorimetric means to use to acquire the colorimetric value from the multiple colorimetric means based on the specification information associated with the setting information set in the setting step. A method for controlling a printing system, characterized by including the following:

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