Thread color registration program, thread color registration method, and thread color registration system

Abstract

To provide a thread color registration program, a thread color registration method, and a thread color registration system that contribute to easier and more accurate registration of thread colors owned by users and the display of registered colors. [Solution] The thread color registration device comprises an image sensor, a display, and a processor. The thread color registration program includes instructions to the processor of the thread color registration device, which registers the thread color of the thread spool in a registration list stored in memory, to perform the following processes: The processor performs a detection process to detect a two-dimensional code using the image sensor (S4). The processor performs a registration process to register the second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, in the registration list in which the first color, which is the thread color of the first thread spool, is registered (S15). The processor performs a display process to display a list image on the display that shows the registered colors, which are multiple colors registered in the registration list (S18).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a thread color registration program, a thread color registration method, and a thread color registration system.

Background Art

[0002] The embroidery data creation device of Patent Document 1 can register the color of a thread. The embroidery data creation device reads the color display data stored in the image data storage device in response to an operation such as specifying a color number, and registers the color of the thread. Alternatively, the embroidery data creation device reads the actual color from a scanner and registers the color of the thread. Thereby, the embroidery data creation device can display an image showing the finish when sewing a pattern using the registered color thread based on the color of the thread that the user has and has registered in the embroidery data creation device. The embroidery data creation device accepts the designation of the color of the thread used for sewing the pattern from the colors of the threads registered in the embroidery data creation device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a conventional embroidery data creation device, the operation of specifying a color number takes time for the user to operate while checking the color number, and there is a possibility of human error operation. Reading the actual color of the thread with a scanner may cause the embroidery data creation device to misrecognize similar colors due to an external environment such as the brightness of the space, lacking accuracy.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a thread color registration program, a thread color registration method, and a thread color registration system that contribute to registering the color of the thread possessed by the user more easily and accurately than before and displaying the registered color. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A thread color registration program according to a first aspect of the present invention includes instructions for the processor of a thread color registration device to perform the following processes. The thread color registration device comprises an image sensor, a display, and a processor. The thread color registration device registers the thread colors of thread spools in a registration list stored in memory. The thread color registration program includes instructions for the image sensor to perform a detection process to detect a two-dimensional code. The thread color registration program includes instructions for the registration process to register a second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, in the registration list in which a first color, which is the thread color of a first thread spool, is registered. The second color is the thread color of a second thread spool that is different from the first thread spool. The thread color registration program includes instructions for the display process to display a list image on the display that shows a plurality of registered colors, which are the registered colors registered in the registration list. The registered colors include the first color and the second color.

[0007] The detection and registration processes of the first embodiment of the yarn color registration program contribute to registering the colors of yarn owned by the user in a registration list more easily and accurately than before, by using a two-dimensional code. The display process of the yarn color registration program contributes to the user being able to understand the colors of yarn owned by the user and registered in the registration list.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a thread color registration method in which a processor registers the thread color of a thread spool in a registration list stored in memory. The thread color registration method includes a detection process in which the image sensor detects a two-dimensional code. The thread color registration method includes a registration process in which a second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, is registered in the registration list in which a first color, which is the thread color of a first thread spool, is registered. The second color is the thread color of a second thread spool that is different from the first thread spool. The thread color registration method includes a display process in which a list image showing the registered colors, which are a plurality of colors registered in the registration list, is displayed on the display. The registered colors include the first color and the second color. The thread color registration method of the second aspect has the same effect as the thread color registration program of the first aspect.

[0009] A third aspect of the present invention provides a yarn color registration system comprising a first yarn spool, a second yarn spool, a memory, an image sensor, a display, and a processor. The second yarn spool is a different yarn spool from the first yarn spool and has a two-dimensional code. The memory stores a registration list for registering the yarn colors of the yarn spools. The processor is configured to perform a detection process to detect the two-dimensional code using the image sensor. The processor is configured to perform a registration process to register a second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, in the registration list, which already contains a first color, which is the yarn color of the first yarn spool. The second color is the yarn color of the second yarn spool. The processor is configured to perform a display process to display a list image on the display showing the registered colors, which are a plurality of colors registered in the registration list. The registered colors include the first color and the second color. The yarn color registration system of the third aspect provides the same effects as the yarn color registration program of the first aspect. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram of a thread color registration system 4 and a sewing machine 2, which includes a thread color registration device 1, a plurality of thread spools 80 including a first thread spool 81, a second thread spool 82, and a third thread spool 83, and a server 5. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration between the thread color registration device 1 and the server 5. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram for the 80th thread piece. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart for the process of displaying list images. [Figure 5] Figure 5(A) is an explanatory diagram of the registration screen G1 before shooting. Figure 5(B) is an explanatory diagram of the registration screen G1 when the second thread spool 82 is photographed. Figure 5(C) is an explanatory diagram of the registration screen G1 when five thread spools 80, including the second thread spool 82 and the third thread spool 83, are photographed. [Figure 6]Figure 6(A) is an explanatory diagram of the registration list 141 before the execution of the list image display process for specific examples 1 to 4. Figures 6(B), 6(D), and 6(E) are explanatory diagrams of the registration list 141 updated based on the shooting results of the second thread spool 82, respectively. Figure 6(C) is an explanatory diagram of the registration list 141 updated based on the shooting results of the five thread spools 80, including the second thread spool 82 and the third thread spool 83. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram for screen G6. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart of the pattern image display process performed by the thread color registration device 1 and the pattern image transmission process performed by the server 5. [Figure 9] Figure 9(A) is an explanatory diagram of screen F1 showing the extraction results when extracting patterns using the keyword "Flower". Figure 9(B) is an explanatory diagram of screen F5, where the conditions for extracting patterns represented by colors registered in registration list 141 are selected. Figure 9(C) is an explanatory diagram of screen F8 showing the extraction results when extracting patterns using the extraction conditions shown in Figure 9(B). [Figure 10] This is a flowchart for the process of displaying a pattern color list image. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart for the pattern color replacement process. [Figure 12] Figure 12(A) is an explanatory diagram of screen H1, which is displayed before the pattern color replacement process is executed. Figure 12(B) is an explanatory diagram of screen H6, which is displayed after the pattern color replacement process is executed. [Figure 13] Figure 13(A) is an explanatory diagram of the housing 69 of the modified system 4 and the multiple thread spools 80 housed in the housing 69. Figure 13(B) is a cross-sectional view of the housing 69 that houses the multiple thread spools 80. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram of the list image J, which is a modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the thread color registration system 4 includes a thread color registration device 1, a server 5, and a plurality of thread reels 80. Hereinafter, the thread color registration system 4 will be referred to as "system 4". The thread color registration device 1 can communicate with each of the sewing machine 2 and the server 5 via the network 3. The sewing machine 2 has a needle bar 21 and a moving mechanism 22, and is a sewing machine capable of embroidery sewing.

[0012] The thread color registration device 1 has a function of selecting a pattern that can be sewn by the sewing machine 2 and transmitting information regarding the selected pattern to the sewing machine 2. The information regarding the selected pattern is, for example, pattern data indicating the selected pattern. The pattern data includes an ID for identifying the pattern, pattern image data indicating the pattern, and sewing data for sewing the pattern. The pattern image data is data in which the color for each pixel is represented by a gradation value in the RGB color space of red (R), green (G), and blue (B). The color space adopted by the pattern image data may be other than the RGB color space. The sewing data includes coordinate data and color data. The coordinate data is data indicating the formation position of the seam included in the pattern, that is, the position of the needle drop point, in the coordinates of the embroidery coordinate system. The color data indicates the color of the thread for sewing the pattern, that is, the pattern color.

[0013] The thread color registration device 1 is a tablet-type portable terminal device or a smartphone. As shown in FIG. 2, the thread color registration device 1 includes a CPU 6, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, a memory 14, a communication unit 15, and an input / output (I / O) interface 17, an image sensor 11, a display 18, and an input unit 19.

[0014] The CPU 6 controls the thread color registration device 1. The CPU 6 is electrically connected to the ROM 12, the RAM 13, the memory 14, the communication unit 15, and the I / O interface 17 via a bus 16. Various programs and setting values are stored in the ROM 12. The CPU 6 stores temporary data in the RAM 13.

[0015] The memory 14 is a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory. The memory 14 stores various setting values necessary for the execution of the processes described later. The memory 14 stores a registration list 141 and a color list 142. The registration list 141 can register the color of the yarn 86 of the bobbin 80 based on the detection result of the two-dimensional code 90 by the image sensor 11. The registration list 141 of the present embodiment registers by associating the color number indicating the color of the yarn 86 of the bobbin 80 with the identification information of the bobbin 80. The registration list 141 may register only the color number or only the identification information.

[0016] The color list 142 stores the colors that can be registered in the registration list 141. Among the colors that can be registered in the registration list 141, the colors registered in the registration list 141 are defined as registered colors, and the colors not registered in the registration list 141 are defined as unregistered colors. The color list 142 of the present embodiment stores each of the registered colors and the unregistered colors. The color list 142 stores by associating the color number, the RGB value, and the color name. The color list 142 may store other information.

[0017] The communication unit 15 is an interface for connecting the yarn color registration device 1 to the network 3. The CPU 6 can execute data transmission and reception with other devices connected to the network 3 via the communication unit 15, for example, the sewing machine 2 and the server 5. The I / O interface 17 is connected to the display 18, the input unit 19, and the image sensor 11.

[0018] The display 18 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The input unit 19 is, for example, a touch screen and is used when inputting various instructions. When the user operates the input unit 19, the input unit 19 outputs a signal corresponding to the user's operation to the CPU 6. The image sensor 11 is a digital camera including an imaging element such as a CCD and a CMOS and an imaging lens. For example, when the user photographs the bobbin 80 in the real space with the image sensor 11, the image sensor 11 outputs an image showing the bobbin 80.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, the sewing machine 2 moves the embroidery hoop 23 in the forward / backward and left / right directions by the moving mechanism 22 according to the sewing data, and at the same time drives the needle bar 21 in the up / down direction. In this way, the sewing machine 2 sews a pattern onto the workpiece C held in the embroidery hoop 23. The workpiece C is, for example, a processed fabric.

[0020] Server 5 is a server capable of communicating with at least the thread color registration device 1. As shown in Figure 2, Server 5 comprises a CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, memory 44, communication unit 45, and input / output (I / O) interface 47. The CPU 41 is electrically connected to the ROM 42, RAM 43, memory 44, communication unit 45, and I / O interface 47 via a bus 46.

[0021] CPU 41 controls server 5. ROM 42 stores the boot program and BIOS, etc. CPU 41 stores temporary data in RAM 43. Memory 44 is a non-volatile memory device that stores pattern data for multiple types of patterns.

[0022] The communication unit 45 is an interface for connecting the server 5 to the network 3. The CPU 41 can send and receive data with other devices connected to the network 3, such as the sewing machine 2 and the thread color registration device 1, via the communication unit 45. When the server 5 receives a request from the thread color registration device 1 to send pattern data, it is configured to send the pattern data corresponding to the request from the pattern data stored in the memory 44 to the thread color registration device 1.

[0023] In this embodiment, the thread spools used when sewing the pattern selected by the thread color registration device 1 with the sewing machine 2 are collectively referred to as thread spools 80. As shown in Figure 3, the thread spool 80 has a cylindrical body 85 and thread 86 wound around the outer circumference of the cylindrical body 85. The cylindrical body 85 is cylindrical in shape and has a through hole 87 and flanges 88 and 89. The through hole 87 extends in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical body 85. The flanges 88 and 89 are located at both ends of the cylindrical body 85 in the longitudinal direction.

[0024] A label 91 containing a two-dimensional code 90 is affixed to the surface of the guard 88. The surface in the direction in which the thread 86 and guard 89 are located relative to the guard 88, along the axis K of the through hole 87, is the back surface of the guard 88. That is, the surface of the guard 88 is the surface in the direction in which the thread 86 and guard 89 are not located relative to the guard 88.

[0025] The two-dimensional code 90 may be appropriately selected from QR Code (registered trademark), VeriCode, CP Code, AztecCode, and PDF417, etc. In this embodiment, the two-dimensional code 90 is a QR code. The two-dimensional code 90 indicates the color of the thread 86 of the thread spool 80.

[0026] The two-dimensional code 90 of this embodiment indicates the color of the thread 86 of the thread spool 80, as well as identification information that uniquely identifies the thread spool 80. The identification information is, for example, a serial number represented by a six-digit number. The two-dimensional code 90 indicates the color number and identification information in the format, for example, "color number_serial number". The three digits before the underscore indicate the color number, and the six digits after the underscore indicate the identification information.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, the multiple thread spools 80 include a first thread spool 81, a second thread spool 82, and a third thread spool 83. The second thread spool 82 is a different thread spool from the first thread spool 81. The third thread spool 83 is a different thread spool from both the first thread spool 81 and the second thread spool 82. Hereafter, when describing each thread spool 80 individually, we will use the terms first thread spool 81, second thread spool 82, and third thread spool 83.

[0028] The first thread spool 81 has thread 861. The color of thread 861 in the first thread spool 81 is also called the first color. The second thread spool 82 has thread 862. The color of thread 862 in the second thread spool 82 is also called the second color. The third thread spool 83 has thread 863. The color of thread 863 in the third thread spool 83 is also called the third color.

[0029] The first thread spool 81 has a two-dimensional code 901. The second thread spool 82 has a two-dimensional code 902. The third thread spool 83 has a two-dimensional code 903. The number of thread spools 80 included in multiple thread spools 80 may be changed as appropriate.

[0030] In this embodiment, the list image display process performed by the thread color registration device 1 will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 7. When a user registers the color of a thread spool 80 in the registration list 141 based on a two-dimensional code 90, they operate the input unit 19 to input an instruction to start the list image display process. The CPU 6 detects the instruction to start the list image display process based on the signal output from the input unit 19. When the CPU 6 detects the instruction to start the list image display process, it reads the program for executing the list image display process stored in the program storage area of ​​the memory 14 into the RAM 13. The program includes instructions for the CPU 6 to perform the following processes. The CPU 6 executes the following steps according to the instructions contained in the program read into the RAM 13. Hereinafter, each step will be abbreviated as S.

[0031] Figure 6(A) shows the registration list 141 at the time the list image display process is started. The registration list 141 in Figure 6(A) contains the identification information and color numbers of nine thread spools 80, including the first thread spool 81, which were registered by past list image display processes performed before the list image display process was started. In this embodiment, the CPU 6 registers the color of the thread 862 of the second thread spool 82 in the registration list 141.

[0032] As shown in Figure 4, the registration screen G1, which includes the image output by the image sensor 11, is displayed on the display 18 (S2). Figure 5(A) shows the registration screen G1 before the image sensor 11 is activated. As shown in Figure 5(A), the registration screen G1 includes fields G2 and G3. Field G2 displays the captured image output by the image sensor 11. Field G3 displays the color and number of colors of the threads 86 of the thread spool 80 indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 detected from the captured image displayed in field G2. The CPU 6 displays a message in field G3 prompting the reader to read the two-dimensional code.

[0033] The CPU 6 activates the image sensor 11 and displays the captured image in column G2 (S3). The user takes a picture of the thread 80 to be registered with the image sensor 11 according to the message in column G3. That is, the user points the imaging lens of the image sensor 11 at the thread 80 to be registered and takes a picture. The CPU 6 displays the captured image output by the image sensor 11, that is, the image showing the thread 80 to be registered, in column G2. In this embodiment, the image sensor 11 is automatically activated after the processing in S2, but the user may activate the image sensor 11 at any time by operating the input unit 19.

[0034] CPU6 executes a detection process to detect the two-dimensional code (S4). In the detection process, CPU6 can detect the two-dimensional code if it is present in the captured image displayed in column G2. For example, if a QR code (registered trademark) is used as the two-dimensional code, CPU6 can detect the two-dimensional code by using pattern detection of identical cropped symbols placed at three of the four corners of the QR code (registered trademark) in the captured image. If there is no two-dimensional code in the captured image displayed in column G2, no two-dimensional code will be detected. If there are multiple two-dimensional codes in the captured image displayed in column G2, multiple two-dimensional codes will be detected.

[0035] CPU6 determines in S4 whether or not a QR code was detected (S5). If CPU6 determines that no QR code was detected (S5: NO), it returns to S4. If CPU6 determines that a QR code was detected (S5: YES), it proceeds to S6.

[0036] CPU6 determines whether the two-dimensional code detected in S4 is the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80 (S6). The method of determination in S6 may be set as appropriate. For example, CPU6 decodes the detected two-dimensional code and obtains the numbers indicated by the two-dimensional code. CPU6 determines that the detected two-dimensional code is the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80 if the three digits before the underscore in the numbers indicated by the two-dimensional code are stored as a color number in the color list 142. If the detected two-dimensional code is not the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80 (S6: NO), CPU6 returns the process to S4.

[0037] If CPU6 determines that the two-dimensional code detected in S4 is the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80 (S6: YES), it proceeds to S7. CPU6 displays the color and number of colors of the thread 86 indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80 in column G3 (S7). The color of the thread 86 is obtained, for example, by referring to the color list 142 and identifying the RGB value corresponding to the color number indicated by the two-dimensional code 90. The number of colors is obtained, for example, by calculating the number of colors with different color numbers for the color number indicated by the two-dimensional code 90. As shown in Figure 5(B), the color of the thread 86 is displayed by a circular icon U of the thread 86's color. The number of colors of the thread 86 is displayed as a number above the circular icon of the thread 86's color. CPU6 displays the confirmation key G4.

[0038] The CPU 6 determines whether or not the selection of confirmation key G4 has been detected based on the signal output from the input unit 19 (S8). The user checks the display in column G3, and if they wish to register the color displayed in column G3 to the registration list 141, they operate the input unit 19 to select confirmation key G4. If the selection of confirmation key G4 is not detected (S8: NO), the CPU 6 returns to processing S4.

[0039] If CPU6 detects the selection of confirmation key G4 (S8:YES), it retrieves the next color from the thread colors of thread spool 80 corresponding to the two-dimensional code 90 detected in S4 (S9). The retrieval order can be set as appropriate; for example, it may be in ascending order of the color numbers of the thread colors 86.

[0040] CPU6 determines whether the color obtained in S9 is a registered color already registered in registration list 141 (S10). CPU6 determines that the color of thread 86 is a registered color registered in registration list 141 if there is a color number in the registered list 141 that matches the color number of thread 86. CPU6 determines that the color of thread 86 is an unregistered color not registered in registration list 141 if there is no color number in the registered list 141 that matches the color number of thread 86. If CPU6 determines that the color number of thread 86 is a registered color registered in registration list 141 (S10: YES), the process proceeds to S11. If CPU6 determines that the color number of thread 86 is not a registered color registered in registration list 141, i.e., an unregistered color (S10: NO), the process proceeds to S15.

[0041] CPU 6 determines whether the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 92 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11). CPU 6 determines that the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 is registered in the registration list 141 if there is identification information in the registration list 141 that matches the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90. CPU 6 determines that the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 is not registered in the registration list 141 if there is no identification information in the registration list 141 that matches the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90. If the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11: YES), CPU 6 proceeds to S12. If the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 is not registered in the registration list 141 (S11: NO), the CPU 6 performs a registration process to register the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 in the registration list 141, associating it with the color of the yarn 86 registered in the registration list 141 (S14).

[0042] If the color number of the thread 86 is an unregistered color (S10:NO), the CPU 6 executes a registration process to register the color of the thread 86, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code 90, in association with the identification information of the thread spool 80 in the registration list 141 (S15). If the color of the thread 86 is not registered in the registration list 141, the identification information of the thread spool 80 is also not registered in the registration list 141. In other words, the CPU 6 registers the identification information of the thread spool 80 in association with the color of the thread 86 in the registration list 141.

[0043] If the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11: YES), the CPU 6 determines whether or not to delete the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 from the registration list 141 (S12). The CPU 6 displays a screen on the display 18 to confirm whether or not to delete the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 from the registration list 141. The screen for confirming deletion may include, for example, the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90, a message such as "Do you want to delete this identification information from the registration list?", and selection buttons such as "YES" and "NO". The user operates the input unit 19 to input an instruction on whether or not to delete the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 from the registration list 141. Based on the input result from the input unit 19, the CPU 6 determines whether or not to delete the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 from the registration list 141.

[0044] If it is determined that the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 should be deleted from the registration list 141 (S12: YES), the CPU 6 executes an identification information deletion process to delete the identification information indicated by the detected two-dimensional code 90 from the registration list 141 (S13). If, before executing S13, there is only one piece of identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90, i.e., one piece of identification information corresponding to the color of the yarn 86 registered in the registration list 141, the CPU 6 deletes the color number of the yarn 86 along with the identification information from the registration list 141.

[0045] If it is determined that the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 should not be deleted from the registration list 141 (S12: NO), the CPU 6 performs the process in S17.

[0046] After any of steps S13 through S15, CPU6 determines whether the color acquired in S9 is the last color to be acquired (S17). If the color acquired in S9 is not the last color to be acquired (S17: NO), CPU6 returns to S9. If the color acquired in S9 is the last color to be acquired (S17: YES), CPU6 proceeds to S18. For example, when acquiring the colors of the threads 86 of the thread spool 80 corresponding to the two-dimensional code 90 detected in S4, in ascending order of color number, CPU6 determines that the color acquired in S9 is the last color to be acquired when there are no more colors available to acquire. CPU6 performs a display process to display a list image showing the registered colors on the display 18, as shown in Figure 7 (S18). The registered colors are multiple colors registered in the registration list 141. CPU6 then terminates the list image display process.

[0047] The process when the above list image display process is applied to specific examples 1 to 4 will be explained in order. In specific examples 1 to 4, the first thread spool 81 is the thread spool 80 indicated by the color number "001" and identification information "241053". That is, the first color is the color indicated by the color number "001". Figure 6(A) shows the registration list 141 before the list image display process is executed. The color number "001" for the first color and the identification information "241053" for the first thread spool 81 are registered in the registration list 141 before the list image display process is executed.

[0048] Let's explain Specific Example 1. Specific Example 1 is an example of registering the second color and the corresponding identification information in the registration list 141 when the color of the thread 862 of the second thread spool 82 corresponding to the detected two-dimensional code 902 is not a registered color registered in the registration list 141, that is, when the second color is an unregistered color. In Specific Example 1, the second thread spool 82 is the thread spool 80 indicated by color number "307" and identification information "245823". In other words, the second color is the color indicated by color number "307".

[0049] The user captures an image of the second thread spool 82 using the image sensor 11 activated on S3. As shown in Figure 5(B), the CPU 6 displays the image of the second thread spool 82 in column G2.

[0050] In S4, CPU6 detects the two-dimensional code 902 on the second thread spool 82. CPU6 determines that it has detected the two-dimensional code 902 of the second thread spool 82 (S5:YES, S6:YES) and displays the second color and the number of detected colors in column G3 (S7). As shown in Figure 5(B), CPU6 displays a circular icon U for the second color and the number of detected colors "1" in column G2.

[0051] If CPU6 detects the selection of confirmation key G4 (S8:YES), it determines whether the color number "307" of the thread 862 is a registered color (S10). As shown in Figure 6(A), the color number "307" of the second color is not registered in the registration list 141. CPU6 determines that the second color is an unregistered color (S10:NO) and performs a registration process to register the color number "307" of the second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code 902, and the identification information "245823" of the second thread spool 82 in association with the registration list 141 in which the color number "001" of the first color is registered (S15).

[0052] If the second color is not registered in registration list 141, then the identification information for the second thread spool 82 is also not registered in registration list 141. Therefore, in S15, CPU 6 registers the identification information for the second thread spool 82 in association with the second color in registration list 141. As shown in Figure 6(B), CPU 6 registers the color number "307" of the second color and the identification information "245823" of the second thread spool 82 at the end of registration list 141. The storage order of registration list 141 may be in order according to the storage time, or it may be in order of increasing color number.

[0053] In S18, the registered color includes both the color that was registered in the registration list 141 before the list image display process was executed and the newly registered color. In specific example 1, the registered color includes the first color and the second color. The CPU 6 executes a display process to display a list image on the display 18 that shows the registered color, which includes the first color indicated by color number "001" and the second color indicated by color number "307" (S18).

[0054] Next, we will explain Specific Example 2. We will omit the explanation of the same process as in Specific Example 1. Specific Example 2 is an example of deleting the second color and the identification information corresponding to the second color from the registration list 141 when the color of the thread 862 of the second thread spool 82 corresponding to the detected two-dimensional code 902 is a registered color registered in the registration list 141, that is, when the second color is a registered color. In Specific Example 2, the second thread spool 82 is the thread spool 80 indicated by color number "126" and identification information "484071". In other words, the second color is the color indicated by color number "126".

[0055] As shown in Figure 6(A), the color number "126" for the second color is registered in registration list 141. In S10, the CPU 6 determines that the second color indicated by color number "126" is a registered color (S10: YES), and proceeds to S11.

[0056] CPU 6 determines whether the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11). As shown in Figure 6(A), the identification information "484071" indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 is registered in the registration list 141. CPU 6 determines that the identification information "484071" indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11: YES).

[0057] If, after S11, it is determined that the identification information "484071" indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 should be deleted from the registration list 141 (S12: YES), the CPU 6 executes an identification information deletion process to delete the detected identification information "484071" indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 from the registration list 141 (S13). The CPU 6 deletes the identification information "484071" for the second thread piece 82 from the registration list 141. As shown in Figure 6(A), before executing S13, one of the identification information entries in the registration list 141 corresponding to the color number "126" is "484071". In this case, as shown in Figure 6(D), the CPU 6 deletes the identification information "484071" along with the color number "126" of the second color indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 from the registration list 141.

[0058] In specific example 2, in S18, the registered color includes the first color but does not include the second color. The registered color is the color obtained by subtracting the color deleted in S13 from the colors registered in the registration list 141 before the list image display process is executed. The CPU 6 executes a display process (S18) to display on the display 18 a list image showing the registered color which includes the first color indicated by color number "001" but does not include the second color indicated by color number "126".

[0059] Next, we will explain specific example 3. We will omit the explanation of the same processes as in specific examples 1 and 2. In specific example 3, the color of the thread 862 of the second thread spool 82 corresponding to the detected two-dimensional code 902 is a registered color registered in the registration list 141. In other words, the second color is a registered color. However, the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 of the second thread spool 82 is not registered in the registration list 141. That is, specific example 3 is an example of adding the identification information of the second thread spool 82 to the registration list 141 by associating it with the second color, when the second color is a registered color and the identification information of the second thread spool 82 is not registered in the registration list 141. In specific example 3, the second thread spool 82 is the thread spool 80 indicated by the color number "017" and the identification information "261951". In other words, the second color is the color indicated by the color number "017".

[0060] As shown in Figure 6(A), the color number "017" for the second color is registered in registration list 141. In S10, the CPU 6 determines that the second color indicated by color number "017" is a registered color (S10: YES), and proceeds to S11.

[0061] CPU 6 determines whether the identification information indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11). As shown in Figure 6(A), the identification information "261951" indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 is not registered in the registration list 141. CPU 6 determines that the identification information "261951" indicated by the two-dimensional code 902 is not registered in the registration list 141 (S11: NO).

[0062] CPU 6 performs a registration process (S14) to register the identification information "261591" of the second thread piece 82 in the registration list 141, associating it with the second color "017". As shown in Figure 6(E), the process in S14 associates the second color "017" with two identification information values, "261564" and "261951", and registers them in the registration list 141. CPU 6 performs a display process (S18) to display a list image on the display 18 showing the registered colors, including the first color indicated by color number "001" and the second color indicated by color number "017". In specific example 3, the registered colors included in the list image are the same before and after the registration process.

[0063] Next, we will explain Specific Example 4. We will omit the explanation of the process which is the same as in Specific Example 1. Specific Example 4 is an example in which the color of each thread 86 of five thread spools 80, including the second thread spool 82 and the third thread spool 83, is registered in the registration list 141, as shown in Figure 5(C). In Specific Example 4, the second thread spool 82 is the thread spool 80 indicated by color number "307" and identification information "245823". That is, the second color is the color indicated by color number "307". The third thread spool 83 is the thread spool 80 indicated by color number "323" and identification information "246300". That is, the third color is the color indicated by color number "323". The colors of the other three thread spools 80 are indicated by color numbers "328", "415", and "507", and their respective identification information is "246777", "256794", and "258225".

[0064] The user captures images of five thread spools 80, including the second thread spool 82 and the third thread spool 83, using the image sensor 11 activated in S3. As shown in Figure 5(C), the CPU 6 displays the image showing the five thread spools 80, including the second thread spool 82 and the third thread spool 83, in column G2.

[0065] In S4, the CPU 6 detects five two-dimensional codes 90, each of the five thread spools 80. In the detection process of S4, if there are multiple two-dimensional codes in the image displayed in column G2, the CPU 6 can detect each of the multiple two-dimensional codes. The five two-dimensional codes 90 include the two-dimensional code 902 of the second thread spool 82 and the two-dimensional code 903 of the third thread spool 83.

[0066] Since all the detected two-dimensional codes are the two-dimensional code 90 of thread spool 80 (S6:YES), CPU6 displays the five colors and the number of colors indicated by the five detected two-dimensional codes 90 in column G3 (S7). As shown in Figure 5(C), five circular icons U representing the five colors and the number of colors "5" are displayed in column G2.

[0067] If CPU6 detects the selection of confirmation key G4 (S8:YES), it executes processes S9 to S17 for each of the five colors. The five colors include the second and third colors. As shown in Figure 6(A), the color numbers of the five colors, including the second color's color number "307" and the third color's color number "323," are not registered in registration list 141. Therefore, in specific example 4, when CPU6 determines whether each of the five colors is a registered color or not (S10), it determines that all five colors, including the second and third colors, are unregistered colors (S10:NO).

[0068] CPU6 executes a registration process (S15) to register the color number and identification information for each of the five thread spools 80 in the registration list 141, which already contains the color number "001" for the first color. The color numbers and identification information for the five thread spools 80 include the color number "307" for the second color and the identification information "245823" for the second thread spool 82, and the color number "323" for the third color and the identification information "246300" for the third thread spool 83. As shown in Figure 6(C), CPU6 registers the color numbers "307", "323", "328", "415", "507", and the identification information "245823", "246300", "246777", "256794", and "258225" at the end of the registration list 141.

[0069] In specific example 4, in S18, the registered color includes both the color that was registered in the registration list 141 before the list image display process was executed and the newly registered color. The registered color includes the first color, the second color, and the third color. The CPU 6 executes a display process to display a list image on the display 18 that shows the registered color, which includes the first color indicated by color number "001", the second color indicated by color number "307", and the third color indicated by color number "323" (S18).

[0070] The list image displayed in S18 will be explained using screen G6 of Specific Example 4 shown in Figure 7 as an example. In Specific Examples 1 to 3, the screen configuration is the same as screen G6 of Specific Example 4, but the registered color changes when S18 is executed, so the colors shown in list image G7 are different. Screen G6 includes list image G7, column G8, and key image G9. List image G7 displays registered colors and unregistered colors in a visually distinguishable manner.

[0071] Specifically, in this embodiment, list image G7 indicates registered colors and unregistered colors by color numbers, which are numbers that indicate colors. In this embodiment, the background of the color numbers of registered colors is shown in the registered color, and the background of the color numbers of unregistered colors is shown in gray. The CPU 6 can refer to the color list 142 and obtain the RGB values ​​corresponding to the color numbers, thereby showing the background of the color numbers of registered colors in the registered color. In list image G7, registered colors are indicated by the first icon Q1 of the registered colors, and unregistered colors are indicated by the second icon Q2, which has a different shape from the first icon Q1.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first icon Q1 is round, and the second icon Q2 is square. The first icon Q1 is painted with a registered color, and to improve visibility, the color number is shown in black, and the area around the color number is painted in white in a rectangular shape. The second icon Q2 is painted gray, and the color number is shown in white. In specific example 4, the registered color includes a first color, a second color, and a third color. List image G7 shows the first color, the second color, and the third color. That is, as shown in Figure 7, list image G7 shows the colors corresponding to the color numbers "001", "307", and "323", respectively.

[0073] Column G8 displays the color number and color name of the selected color from the colors displayed in list image G7. In Figure 7, the color with color number "507" and color name "EMERALD GREEN" is selected and displayed. In list image G7, the outline of the first icon Q1 corresponding to color number "507" is shown with a thick line. This indicates that the color corresponding to color number "507" is selected in list image G7. The user can select any color from the colors displayed in list image G7 by operating the input section 19.

[0074] Key image G9 is used to input an instruction to remove the selected color from the registration list 141. When the user operates the input unit 19 and specifies key image G9, the color number and identification information of the selected color are removed from the registration list 141. If multiple identification information entries for the selected color are registered, all identification information entries for the selected color may be deleted, or only specific identification information entries for the selected color may be deleted.

[0075] Referring to Figures 8 to 9(C), the pattern image display processing and pattern image transmission processing performed collaboratively by the yarn color registration device 1 and the server 5 will be explained. The pattern image display processing is the process of receiving pattern image data included in pattern data that satisfies the extraction conditions from among multiple types of pattern data stored in the memory 44 of the server 5, and displaying the pattern image on the display 18 based on the received pattern image data. The pattern image display processing is a process performed by the CPU 6 of the yarn color registration device 1. The pattern image display processing is performed when the toggle switch F6 on the screen F5 shown in Figure 9(B) is set to ON. The circular switches of toggle switches F6 and F7 are ON when they are on the right and OFF when they are on the left. If the user operates the input unit 19 to select key image F10 during the period when toggle switch F6 is ON, the CPU 6 detects a start instruction to start the pattern image display processing.

[0076] When CPU 6 detects a start command, it reads a program for executing pattern image display processing, stored in the program storage area of ​​memory 14, into RAM 13. The program contains instructions for CPU 6 to perform the following steps. CPU 6 performs the following steps according to the instructions contained in the program read into RAM 13.

[0077] The pattern image transmission process is the process of transmitting pattern image data included in pattern data that satisfies the extraction criteria from among multiple types of pattern data stored in the memory 44 of the server 5 to the thread color registration device 1. The pattern image transmission process is executed by the CPU 41 of the server 5. In S20 described below, when the CPU 41 receives the registration list 141, it reads the program for executing the pattern image transmission process stored in the program storage area of ​​the ROM 42 into the RAM 43. The program includes instructions for the CPU 41 to execute the following steps. The CPU 41 of the server 5 executes the following steps according to the instructions contained in the program read into the RAM 43.

[0078] Screen F5 in Figure 9(B) is displayed when the selection of key image F4, which is included in screen F1 in Figure 9(A), is detected. Screen F5 may be displayed overlaid on screen F1. As shown in Figure 9(A), screen F1 includes field F2, keyword pattern image F3, and key image F4. Field F2 is a field for entering keywords. Keyword pattern image F3 displays a pattern image based on the pattern image data included in the pattern data extracted based on the keyword. The pattern image may be an image in which the area where the stitches are formed is filled with the color of the thread to be used for sewing. The pattern image may also be an image in which the line segments indicating stitches are shown with the color of the thread to be used for sewing. In screen F1, the keyword "Flower" has been entered in field F2, and a pattern image related to the keyword "Flower" is displayed as keyword pattern image F3. Key image F4 is selected when entering extraction conditions for pattern data other than keywords.

[0079] As shown in Figure 9(B), screen F5 includes toggle switches F6 and F7, and key image F10. Toggle switch F6 switches whether or not to specify the conditions for extracting patterns in which the pattern color is a registered color. When the toggle switch F6 is to the right, it specifies the conditions for extracting pattern data in which the pattern color is a registered color. When the toggle switch F6 is to the left, it does not specify the conditions for extracting pattern data in which the pattern color is a registered color.

[0080] Toggle switch F7 is displayed on screen F5 when toggle switch F6 is set to the right. Toggle switch F7 switches whether or not to specify a condition for extracting pattern data that represents a pattern represented by a registered color and a specific unregistered color. The specific unregistered color can be set as appropriate. For example, the specific unregistered color may be a color selected by the user from among the unregistered colors, or it may be a color that is automatically set considering the registered colors. When the user selects a specific unregistered color, the user should check the image representing the unregistered color displayed on display 18 and make the selection by operating the input unit 19.

[0081] When toggle switch F7 is in the right position, you specify the conditions for extracting pattern data that shows a pattern represented by a specific color from among the registered and unregistered colors. As shown in Figure 9(B), when toggle switch F7 is in the left position, you do not specify the conditions for extracting pattern data that shows a pattern represented by a specific color from among the registered and unregistered colors. Key image F10 is selected when you input an instruction to extract pattern data that satisfies the extraction conditions from multiple pattern data, according to the settings on screen F5.

[0082] As shown in Figure 8, in the pattern image display process, the CPU 6 of the yarn color registration device 1 retrieves the color list 142 and registration list 141 stored in the memory 14 and sends the color list 142 and registration list 141 to the server 5 (S71). In the pattern image transmission process, the CPU 41 of the server 5 retrieves the color list 142 and registration list 141 sent from the yarn color registration device 1 and stores them in the RAM 43 (S20). The color list 142 and registration list 141 may be stored in the memory 44 of the server 5 in advance. In that case, the registration list 141 stored in the memory 44 may be updated during the list image display process by communication between the yarn color registration device 1 and the server 5. The color list 142 and registration list 141 may be stored in both the memory 14 of the yarn color registration device 1 and the memory 44 of the server 5 in advance.

[0083] The CPU 6 of the thread color registration device 1 acquires extraction conditions based on the toggle switch F7 and transmits the extraction conditions to the server 5 (S72). The CPU 41 of the server 5 acquires the extraction conditions transmitted from the thread color registration device 1 and stores them in the RAM 43 (S21). The extraction conditions include either a first condition or a second condition. The first condition is when the toggle switch F7 is in the left position and extracts pattern data indicating a pattern sewn only with registered color threads. The second condition is when the toggle switch F7 is in the right position and extracts pattern data indicating a pattern sewn with threads that include a specific unregistered color and a registered color.

[0084] The CPU 41 of server 5 determines whether the extraction condition transmitted from the thread color registration device 1 is the first condition for extracting pattern data that indicates a pattern sewn only with registered color threads (S22). As shown in Figure 9(B), if the extraction condition is the first condition (S22:YES), the CPU 41 sets the registered color as an available color based on the registration list 141 stored in RAM 43 (S23). If the extraction condition is not the first condition (S22:NO), that is, if the extraction condition is the second condition, the CPU 41 sets a specific unregistered color and a registered color as available colors based on the color list 142 and registration list 141 stored in RAM 43 (S24).

[0085] The CPU 41 extracts specific pattern data from among multiple types of pattern data stored in memory 44 (S25). In this embodiment, the CPU 41 extracts pattern data that represents a pattern related to the keyword in column F2 from among multiple types of pattern data stored in memory 44. The CPU 41 may also extract all of the multiple types of pattern data stored in memory 44. The CPU 41 acquires pattern data one by one from the extracted pattern data in a predetermined acquisition order as the pattern of interest data. The pattern represented by the pattern of interest data is called the pattern of interest. The acquisition order can be set as appropriate, for example, in an order corresponding to the pattern ID.

[0086] The CPU 41 determines whether all the pattern colors representing the pattern of interest are included in the available colors (S26). All the pattern colors representing the pattern of interest are all the colors corresponding to the color data included in the pattern of interest data. If all the pattern colors representing the pattern of interest are included in the available colors (S26: YES), the CPU 41 adds the pattern image data included in the pattern of interest data to the extraction list (S27). The extraction list may be stored in the memory 44 or RAM 43 of the server 5.

[0087] If any of the pattern colors of the pattern of interest are not included in the available colors (S26:NO), or if, after S27, CPU 41 determines whether the acquisition order of the pattern of interest data is the last (S28). If the acquisition order of the pattern of interest data is not the last (S28:NO), CPU 41 acquires the next pattern data in the acquisition order from the pattern data extracted in S25 as the pattern of interest data (S29), and returns the process to S26.

[0088] If the acquisition order for the pattern data of interest is last (S28: YES), the CPU 41 sends the pattern image data included in the extraction list to the thread color registration device 1 (S30). The CPU 41 then terminates the pattern image transmission process.

[0089] The CPU 6 of the thread color registration device 1 determines whether it has received the pattern image data transmitted from the server 5 (S73). If the CPU 6 has not received the pattern image data transmitted from the server 5 (S73: NO), it returns to processing S73. If the CPU 6 has received the pattern image data transmitted from the server 5 (S73: YES), it displays the pattern image on the display 18 based on the received pattern image data (S74).

[0090] As shown on screen F8 in Figure 9(C), if the extraction condition is the first condition, the CPU 6 executes a first pattern display process to display the first pattern image F9 from the pattern images on the display 18. Screen F8 includes the same fields F2 and key image F4 as screen F1, as well as the first pattern image F9. The first pattern image F9 shows a pattern sewn using only registered color threads. The user can easily select a pattern from the first pattern images F9 that is in a color owned by the user and registered in the registration list 141.

[0091] If the extraction condition is the second condition, CPU6 executes a second pattern display process, which displays the second pattern image on display 18. The second pattern image shows a pattern sewn with threads of a color that includes one specific unregistered color and a registered color. CPU6 then terminates the pattern image display process.

[0092] The thread color registration device 1 may, in the pattern image display processing, perform a process to receive, via the input unit 19, the selection of a pattern to be sewn by the sewing machine 2 from among the patterns shown in the pattern image displayed in S74. In this case, the thread color registration device 1 may obtain information about the selected pattern, such as sewing data, from the server 5 and transmit it to the sewing machine 2. The sewing machine 2 may perform a process to sew the selected pattern based on the information transmitted from the thread color registration device 1.

[0093] The pattern color list image display process will be explained with reference to Figures 10 and 12(A). The pattern color list image display process is started, for example, when the selection of pattern image E is detected from the keyword pattern image F3 in Figure 9(A). When the CPU 6 detects the selection of pattern image E, it reads the program for executing the pattern color list image display process, which is stored in the program storage area of ​​memory 14, into RAM 13. The program contains instructions for the CPU 6 to perform the following steps. The CPU 6 performs the following steps according to the instructions contained in the program read into RAM 13.

[0094] As shown in Figure 10, in the pattern color list image display process, the CPU 6 acquires pattern data corresponding to pattern image E. Specifically, the CPU 6 sends a signal to the server 5 indicating that pattern image E has been selected. Based on the received signal, the CPU 41 of the server 5 extracts the pattern data corresponding to pattern image E from among the multiple types of pattern data stored in memory 44 and sends it to the yarn color registration device 1. The CPU 6 of the yarn color registration device 1 receives and acquires the pattern data from the server 5 (S40). If memory 14 stores pattern data corresponding to pattern image E, the CPU 6 may acquire the pattern data corresponding to pattern image E from memory 14.

[0095] CPU6 obtains the indicator setting (S41). The indicator setting is a setting to assign an indicator to a registered color, or a setting to assign an indicator to an unregistered color. If the indicator setting is stored in memory 14, CPU6 only needs to obtain the indicator setting stored in memory 14. CPU6 may also obtain the indicator setting selected by the user operating the input unit 19.

[0096] CPU6 sequentially acquires each of the pattern colors, which are the colors representing the patterns corresponding to pattern image E, as the pattern color of interest, and determines whether the pattern color of interest is included in the registered colors (S42). The pattern colors of interest can be acquired sequentially from the pattern colors of the patterns corresponding to pattern image E, for example, in ascending order of color number. CPU6 determines whether the pattern color of interest is included in the registered colors by determining whether the color number corresponding to the pattern color of interest is included in the registration list 141. If the pattern color of interest is included in the registered colors (S42: YES), CPU6 determines whether to assign a label to the registered color based on the label setting acquired in S41 (S43).

[0097] If the setting is to assign a marker to the registered color (S43:YES), the CPU 6 adds a marker to the pattern color of interest (S44). In this specification, "adding a marker to the pattern color of interest" means placing the marker icon D2 near the pattern color icon D1 that indicates the pattern color of interest in the pattern color list image. The memory 14 of the yarn color registration device 1 stores the pattern color icon D1 and the marker icon D2 for the colors included in the color list 142. For example, in S44, the CPU 6 obtains the pattern color icon D1 that indicates the pattern color and the marker icon D2. The CPU 6 generates a pattern color list image on which the pattern color icon D1 that indicates the pattern color is placed. In the pattern color list image, the CPU 6 places the marker icon D2 near the pattern color icon D1 that indicates the pattern color of interest. If the setting is not to assign a marker to the registered color (S43:NO), or after S44, the CPU 6 performs the process in S47.

[0098] If the color of the pattern of interest is not included in the registered colors (S42: NO), CPU 6 determines whether or not to assign a label to an unregistered color based on the label setting obtained in S41 (S45). If it is set to assign a label to an unregistered color (S45: YES), CPU 6 adds a label to the color of interest (S46). If it is not set to assign a label to an unregistered color (S45: NO), or after S46, CPU 6 determines whether or not the color of interest is the last pattern color (S47). The pattern colors that represent the pattern corresponding to pattern image E are acquired in order as the color of interest, and if there are no more pattern colors that can be acquired, the color of interest is the last pattern color. If the color of interest is not the last pattern color (S47: NO), CPU 6 acquires the next pattern color as the color of interest (S48) and returns to processing in S42.

[0099] If the pattern color of interest is the last pattern color (S47:YES), the CPU 6 executes a pattern color display process to display the pattern color list image on the display 18 (S49). The pattern color list image distinguishes between registered colors and unregistered colors among the pattern colors that represent the patterns sewn by the sewing machine 2.

[0100] Referring to Figure 12(A), the screen H1 including the pattern color list image H4 will be described as an example where the marking setting acquired in S41 is a setting to assign a marking to a registered color. In S49, the CPU 6 displays screen H1 on the display 18. Screen H1 includes a field H2, a list image H3, a pattern color list image H4, and a key image H5. Field H2 displays the pattern image E.

[0101] List image H3 displays the colors registered in the yarn color palette, separating them into registered colors and unregistered colors. The yarn color palette registers some of the colors registered in color list 142. In list image H3, registered colors are represented by the first icon P1, which is filled with the registered color. In list image H3, unregistered colors are represented by the second icon P2, which is filled with the unregistered color. In this embodiment, the first icon P1 is circular, and the second icon P2 is square.

[0102] The pattern color list image H4 includes a pattern color icon D1 that indicates a pattern color, and a marker icon D2 that is placed near the pattern color icon D1 that indicates a registered color among the pattern colors. The pattern color icon D1 is represented by a diagram of a thread spool 80 in a position where the axis K of the through hole 87 extends in the vertical direction. The color of the thread in the pattern color icon D1 is represented by the pattern color.

[0103] The indicator icon D2 indicates that the pattern color shown by the pattern color icon D1 is a registered color. In this embodiment, the indicator icon D2 is a check mark. The diameter of the smallest circle inscribed in the indicator icon D2 is shorter than the diameter of the smallest circle inscribed in the pattern color icon D1. The indicator icon D2 only needs to be a design that can distinguish between registered colors and unregistered colors.

[0104] In this specification, "neighborhood of pattern color icon D1" refers to a position within a range determined based on the size of pattern color icon D1. Specifically, the neighborhood of pattern color icon D1 refers to the range from the center of the smallest circle inscribed with pattern color icon D1 to a range three times the radius of the smallest circle. The indicator icon D2 may overlap with or be separated from pattern color icon D1.

[0105] In Figure 9(A), the pattern color icon D1 of the registered pattern colors is positioned to the upper right of the indicator icon D2, which is indicated by a check mark, so that it partially overlaps with it. Part of the pattern color icon D1 is covered by the indicator icon D2. Below the pattern color icon D1, the color number is displayed. Pattern colors with color numbers "079", "107", and "507" are assigned the indicator icon D2 to indicate that they are registered colors. Pattern colors with color number "206" are unregistered colors and do not have the indicator icon D2 assigned to them. Key image H5 is selected when inputting an instruction to start the pattern color replacement process described later.

[0106] If the marking setting acquired in S41 is set to assign a marking to an unregistered color, the pattern color list image includes a pattern color icon D1 indicating the pattern color and a marking icon D2. The marking icon D2 is placed near the pattern color icon D1 that indicates an unregistered color among the pattern colors. That is, the pattern color with color number "206" should be marked with a marking icon D2 indicating that it is an unregistered color. The pattern colors with color numbers "079", "107", and "507" should not be marked with a marking icon D2. CPU6 then terminates the pattern color display process.

[0107] The pattern color replacement process will be explained with reference to Figures 11, 12(A), and 12(B). The pattern color replacement process is started when key image H5 is selected. When CPU 6 detects the selection of key image H5, it reads a program for executing the pattern color replacement process, stored in the program storage area of ​​memory 14, into RAM 13. The program contains instructions for CPU 6 to perform the following steps. CPU 6 performs the following steps according to the instructions contained in the program read into RAM 13.

[0108] As shown in Figure 11, in the pattern color replacement process, CPU 6 obtains the replacement settings (S60). The replacement settings are for replacing unregistered colors included in the pattern colors with registered colors, and include either a first replacement setting or a second replacement setting. The first replacement setting is for replacing unregistered colors included in the pattern colors with any registered color. The second replacement setting is for replacing unregistered colors included in the pattern colors with similar colors included in the registered colors. The similar color is the registered color that is closest to the unregistered color included in the pattern colors.

[0109] CPU6 sequentially acquires each pattern color, which is a color representing the pattern corresponding to pattern image E, as a pattern color of interest, and determines whether the pattern color of interest is included in the registered colors (S61). If the pattern color indicated by the color number "079", "107", or "507" is a pattern color of interest, CPU6 determines that the pattern color of interest is included in the registered colors (S61: YES). In this case, CPU6 determines whether the pattern color of interest is the last pattern color (S67). If the pattern color of interest is not the last pattern color (S67: NO), CPU6 reads the next pattern color in the display order as the pattern color of interest (S68) and returns to processing S61.

[0110] If the pattern color indicated by the color number "206" is the pattern color of interest, CPU6 determines that the pattern color of interest is not included in the registered colors, i.e., it is an unregistered color (S61: NO). In this case, CPU6 determines whether the setting obtained in S60 is a replacement setting that replaces the unregistered color included in the pattern color with a similar color included in the registered colors, i.e., a second replacement setting (S62). If the setting obtained in S60 is a first replacement setting (S62: NO), CPU6 executes a replacement process that replaces the unregistered color included in the pattern color, which is the color that indicates the pattern to be sewn, with an arbitrary registered color (S66).

[0111] Specifically, CPU 6 replaces color data indicating unregistered colors in the pattern data corresponding to pattern image E with color data indicating registered colors. CPU 6 replaces unregistered colors in pattern image E with registered colors. CPU 6 replaces unregistered colors in pattern color list image H4 with registered colors. Any registered color may be randomly selected by CPU 6 from among the registered colors. Any registered color may also be a color selected by the user by operating the input unit 19 from among the registered colors displayed on display 18.

[0112] If the setting obtained in S60 is a second substitution setting (S62: YES), CPU6 refers to memory 14 and obtains the RGB values ​​of the pattern color of interest (S63). CPU6 selects a similar color from the registered colors whose RGB values ​​are closest to the pattern color of interest (S64). For example, CPU6 selects the registered color with the smallest calculated Euclidean distance between the RGB values ​​of the pattern color of interest and the RGB values ​​of the registered color as the similar color.

[0113] CPU6 performs a replacement process (S65) in which it replaces unregistered colors included in the pattern color, which is the color that indicates the pattern sewn with thread, with similar colors included in the registered color. In this embodiment, CPU6 replaces unregistered colors included in the pattern color with similar colors included in the registered color when the replacement setting is the second replacement setting. Specifically, CPU6 replaces the color data indicating unregistered colors included in the pattern data corresponding to the pattern image E with color data indicating similar colors, thereby replacing the unregistered colors included in the pattern image E with similar colors.

[0114] If the pattern color of interest is the last pattern color (S67:YES), the CPU 6 displays a screen showing the pattern color on the display 18 (S69).

[0115] If the replacement setting obtained in S60 is the second replacement setting, the CPU 6 displays screen H6 on the display 18 as a screen showing the pattern color. As shown in Figure 12(B), the CPU 6 displays screen H6 on the display 18. Screen H6 includes a field H2, a list image H3, a pattern color list image H4, and a key image H5, similar to screen H1.

[0116] The third pattern color icon D1 from the left in the pattern color list image H4 has been changed from pattern color icon D1 for color number "206" to pattern color icon D1 for color number "126". Pattern color icon D1 for color number "126" is accompanied by an indicator icon D2 to show that it is a registered color.

[0117] In the pattern image E displayed in column H2, the color of the flower center has been replaced from color number "206" to the color indicated by color number "126". The color indicated by color number "126" is included in the registered colors and is a similar color to the color indicated by color number "206". If the replacement setting is the second replacement setting, the replacement process in S65 replaces the unregistered color in pattern image E in column H2 with a similar color, and pattern image E is displayed with only the registered color. CPU6 then terminates the pattern color replacement process.

[0118] The thread color registration device 1 may transmit information regarding patterns in which unregistered colors have been replaced with registered colors during the pattern color replacement process, such as sewing data, to the sewing machine 2. The sewing machine 2 may then perform a process to sew the pattern based on the information transmitted from the thread color registration device 1.

[0119] In the above embodiment, the thread color registration system 4 is an example of the thread color registration system of the present invention. The thread color registration device 1 is an example of the thread color registration device of the present invention. CPUs 6 and 41 are examples of processors of the present invention. Image sensor 11 is an example of an image sensor of the present invention. Memory 14 is an example of a memory of the present invention. Display 18 is an example of a display of the present invention. Thread spool 80 is an example of a thread spool of the present invention. First thread spool 81 is an example of a first thread spool of the present invention. Second thread spool 82 is an example of a second thread spool of the present invention. Third thread spool 83 is an example of a third thread spool of the present invention. Two-dimensional codes 90, 901 to 903 are examples of two-dimensional codes of the present invention. Registration list 141 is an example of a registration list of the present invention. Pattern color icon D1 is an example of a pattern color icon of the present invention. Marker icon D2 is an example of a marker icon of the present invention. First icons P1 and Q1 are examples of first icons. Second icons P2 and Q2 are examples of second icons.

[0120] The process in S4 is an example of the detection process of the present invention. The processes in S14 and S15 are an example of the registration process of the present invention. The process in S18 is an example of the display process of the present invention. The process in S74 is an example of the first pattern display process and the second pattern display process of the present invention. The processes in S65 and S66 are an example of the replacement process of the present invention. The process in S13 is an example of the deletion process and identification information deletion process of the present invention. The process in S49 is an example of the pattern color display process of the present invention.

[0121] The yarn color registration device 1 of the above embodiment comprises an image sensor 11, a display 18, and a CPU 6. The yarn color registration device 1 registers the color of the yarn 86 of the yarn spool 80 in a registration list 141 stored in the memory 14. The yarn color registration program includes instructions for the CPU 6 of the yarn color registration device 1 to perform the following processes. The CPU 6 performs a detection process to detect the two-dimensional code 902 using the image sensor 11 (S4). The CPU 6 performs a registration process to register the second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code 902, in the registration list 141, which contains the first color, which is the color of the yarn 861 of the first yarn spool 81 (S15). The second color is the color of the yarn 862 of the second yarn spool 82, which is different from the first yarn spool 81. The CPU 6 performs a display process to display a list image on the display 18, which is a list image showing the registered colors, which are a plurality of colors registered in the registration list 141 (S18). The registered colors include the first color and the second color.

[0122] The detection and registration processes of the thread color registration program utilize a two-dimensional code 90 to help users more easily and accurately register the colors of the threads 86 on their spools 80 in the registration list 141. The display process of the thread color registration program helps users understand the colors of the threads 86 on their spools 80 that they have registered in the registration list 141.

[0123] The detection process is the process of detecting multiple two-dimensional codes 90 (S4). The registration process is the process of registering the second color, which is the color indicated by two-dimensional code 902, and the third color, which is the color indicated by two-dimensional code 903, in the registration list 141 (S15). The third color is the color of the yarn 863 of the third yarn spool 83, which is different from the first yarn spool 81 and the second yarn spool 82. The registered colors include the first color, the second color, and the third color. The detection process and registration process of the yarn color registration program contribute to making the operation of registering the colors of the yarn 86 of multiple yarn spools 80 together in the memory 14 easier than before, by using two-dimensional codes 90.

[0124] The two-dimensional code 902 indicates the second color and also provides identification information that uniquely identifies the second thread spool 82. The registration process associates the second color with the identification information of the second thread spool 82 and registers it in the registration list 141 (S14, S15). The registration process contributes to distinguishing multiple thread spools 80 of the same color based on the identification information.

[0125] CPU 6 executes the registration process (S14) if the identification information of the second thread spool 82 is not registered in the registration list 141 (S11: NO). CPU 6 does not execute the registration process if the identification information of the second thread spool 82 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11: YES). The registration process of the thread color registration program contributes to distinguishing and registering thread spools 80 of the same color thread 86, whose identification information is indicated by the two-dimensional code 90.

[0126] Memory 14 stores unregistered colors, which are colors that can be registered in registration list 141 but are not registered in registration list 141. The display process displays a list image on the display 18 that distinguishes between registered colors and unregistered colors (S18). The display process of the yarn color registration program contributes to easily distinguishing between registered colors and unregistered colors in the list image displayed on the display 18. The yarn color registration program contributes to knowing the colors of yarn that the user possesses and that are registered in registration list 141, as well as the colors of yarn that are not registered in registration list 141.

[0127] The list images indicate registered and unregistered colors using color numbers, which are numbers that represent the colors. The display processing of the yarn color registration program contributes to clearly distinguishing similar colors using color numbers.

[0128] The list image displays the background of the color number for registered colors in the registered color, and the background of the color number for unregistered colors in gray. The display process of the yarn color registration program helps to easily distinguish between registered and unregistered colors by checking the background color of the color number.

[0129] The list image uses the first icon Q1 to indicate registered colors and the second icon Q2 to indicate unregistered colors. The second icon Q2 has a different shape from the first icon Q1. The list image of the thread color registration program helps to easily distinguish between registered and unregistered colors by checking the shape of the icons.

[0130] CPU6 executes a first pattern display process (S74) which displays a first pattern image on the display 18 that shows a pattern sewn using only registered colored threads. The first pattern display process of the thread color registration program contributes to displaying patterns that can be shown using multiple colors registered in the registration list 141 on the display 18.

[0131] CPU 6 executes a second pattern display process to display the second pattern image on display 18 (S74). The second pattern image shows a pattern sewn with threads containing a specific unregistered color and a registered color. Unregistered colors are colors that can be registered in the registration list 141 but are not registered in the registration list 141. The pattern display process of the thread color registration program contributes to displaying patterns that can be shown by adding one more color to the multiple colors registered in the registration list 141.

[0132] CPU6 performs a replacement process in the pattern image showing the sewing pattern, replacing unregistered colors in the pattern image with registered colors (S65, S66). Unregistered colors are colors that can be registered in the registration list but are not registered in the registration list. The replacement process of the thread color registration program contributes to changing the pattern image to one that shows a pattern that can be sewn using only registered colors, even if the pattern image contains unregistered colors.

[0133] The substitution process replaces unregistered colors included in the pattern color with similar colors (S65). Similar colors are registered colors that are similar to the unregistered colors included in the pattern color. The substitution process in the thread color registration program allows sewing using only registered colors even when the pattern color includes unregistered colors, and contributes to changing the pattern to one with similar colors to the pattern before the substitution process was executed.

[0134] CPU 6 executes a pattern color display process that displays a pattern color list image on display 18 (S49). The pattern color list image distinguishes between registered and unregistered pattern colors, which are the colors that indicate the pattern to be sewn. The pattern color display process of the thread color registration program contributes to making it easier to distinguish between registered and unregistered pattern colors.

[0135] The pattern color list image includes a pattern color icon D1 that indicates the pattern color, and a marker icon D2 that indicates the registered color among the pattern colors and is placed near the pattern color icon D1. The pattern color list image displayed when the yarn color registration program is executed helps to easily identify the registered color among the pattern colors.

[0136] If the second color detected in the detection process is not registered in the registration list 141 (S10: NO), CPU 6 executes the registration process (S15). If the second color detected in the detection process is already registered in the registration list 141 (S10: YES), CPU 6 does not execute the registration process, but instead executes a deletion process to remove the second color indicated by the two-dimensional code 90 from the registration list 141 (S13). If the thread 86 wound around the cylindrical body 85 of the thread spool 80 is lost, the color of the thread 86 of the thread spool 80 may become unknown. In response to this, the deletion process of the thread color registration program contributes to appropriately deleting the color registered in the registration list 141 according to the detected two-dimensional code 90, even if the thread 86 wound around the cylindrical body 85 of the thread spool 80 is lost.

[0137] CPU 6 executes a registration process (S14) if the identification information of the second thread spool 82 is not registered in the registration list 141 (S11: NO). If the identification information of the second thread spool 82 is registered in the registration list 141 (S11: YES), CPU 6 does not execute a registration process, but instead executes an identification information deletion process to remove the identification information of the second thread spool 82 from the registration list 141 (S13). The thread color registration program contributes to switching between executing a registration process and an identification information deletion process depending on whether the identification information of the second thread spool 82 is registered in the registration list 141. The identification information deletion process of the thread color registration program also contributes to appropriately deleting the identification information associated with the registered color from the registration list 141, even when the thread 86 wound on the thread spool 80 is gone.

[0138] The yarn color registration program, yarn color registration method, and yarn color registration system of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the following modifications may be made as appropriate. The present invention can be implemented in various forms, and may be realized, for example, in the form of a non-temporary computer-readable medium storing the yarn color registration program, and a yarn color registration device.

[0139] (A) The configuration of System 4 and the thread color registration device 1 may be modified as appropriate. System 4 may include a sewing machine 2 or a multi-needle sewing machine. The thread color registration device 1 may be a general-purpose device having an image sensor such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or digital camera, or it may be a device dedicated to thread color registration.

[0140] The display 18 of the thread color registration device 1 may be omitted. In this case, system 4 may have a separate display from the thread color registration device 1. The display 18 of the thread color registration device 1 only needs to be capable of displaying images. The display 18 may be, for example, an organic EL display, a plasma display, a plasma tube array display, an electronic paper display using electrophoresis, etc. The input unit 19 of the thread color registration device 1 may be a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, etc.

[0141] The memory 14 of the thread color registration device 1 may store multiple types of pattern data. In this case, the CPU 6 of the thread color registration device 1 may execute the processes S22 to S29 of the pattern image transmission process shown in Figure 8, which were previously performed by the CPU 41 of the server 5. In this case, the server 5 may be omitted. The processes S22 to S29 of the pattern image transmission process shown in Figure 8 may also be executed by the sewing machine 2. The system 4 may be able to select which device performs the processes S22 to S29.

[0142] The thread color registration device 1 may omit the memory 14. In this case, the registration list 141 may be stored in the memory of a device other than the thread color registration device 1. The other device may be, for example, a server 5, an external PC, or an external storage device such as a USB memory. The memory that stores the registration list is preferably a non-volatile memory.

[0143] Conventionally, casings that house multiple thread spools are known. By purchasing a casing, users can buy multiple thread spools at once and store them in the casing. Conventional casings for storing multiple thread spools are rectangular boxes that open at the top when placed on a horizontal surface. To allow users to check the color of the thread spool when removing it from the casing, each of the multiple thread spools is housed in the casing in a position where the axis of the cylindrical thread spool is parallel to the horizontal.

[0144] In conventional enclosures, when a user photographs a two-dimensional code placed on the flange of multiple thread spools housed in the enclosure, they need to change the orientation of the multiple thread spools from one where the axis K is parallel to the horizontal to one where the axis K is perpendicular to the horizontal before photographing from directly above the enclosure. For example, when the enclosure is placed on a desk, photographing multiple thread spools housed in the enclosure while checking the display 18 is difficult because the angle of the display 18 is horizontal.

[0145] Multiple systems 4 may include a housing 69 as illustrated in Figures 13(A) and 13(B). In the following description, the front, back, left, right, up, and down directions shown in Figures 13(A) and 13(B) will be used. The housing 69 comprises a box body 68, mounting surfaces 70 to 79, multiple partition plates 67, and connecting plates 65 and 66. The box body 68 is a rectangular box in plan view, with the top open when placed on a horizontal surface M.

[0146] Each of the mounting surfaces 70 to 79 is inclined with respect to the horizontal when the housing 69 is placed on a horizontal surface M. The mounting surfaces 70 to 79 are connected in order in the front-to-back direction. Mounting surfaces 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78 are each parallel to each other and spaced equally apart in the front-to-back direction. Mounting surfaces 71, 73, 75, 77, and 79 are each parallel to each other and spaced equally apart in the front-to-back direction. When the entire connected arrangement of mounting surfaces 70 to 79 is viewed from the left-to-right direction, it forms a zigzag pattern. The length L1 of each mounting surface 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78 along the inclination direction is shorter than the length L2 in the direction in which the axis K of the through hole 87 of the thread spool 80 extends. In other words, when the thread piece 80 is housed in the housing 69, the two-dimensional code 90 on the surface of the thread piece 80 is not obstructed by the mounting surfaces 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78.

[0147] Each of the multiple partition plates 67 is a plate that extends in the front-to-back direction, and is arranged at equal intervals in the left-to-right direction within the space enclosed on all four sides by the box body 68. The multiple partition plates 67 divide the V-shaped groove, which is formed by two adjacent mounting surfaces 70 to 79 in the front-to-back direction, in the left-to-right direction. The left-to-right distance L3 between adjacent partition plates 67 is longer than the diameter L4 of the flanges 88 and 89 of the thread block 80.

[0148] The connecting plates 65 and 66 are plates that extend in the left-right direction. The front end of connecting plate 65 is connected to the box body 68, and the rear end of connecting plate 65 is connected to the upper end of the mounting surface 70. The rear end of connecting plate 66 is connected to the box body 68, and the front end of connecting plate 66 is connected to the upper end of the mounting surface 79.

[0149] In the cells partitioned by the partition plates 67, the thread spools 80 are placed in a position where their axis K is approximately perpendicular to the mounting surfaces 71, 73, 75, 77, and 79. The cells are spaces capable of accommodating thread spools 80, determined by the mounting surfaces 71, 73, 75, 77, and 79, and the mounting surfaces 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78. The flange 89 of the thread spool 80 faces one of the mounting surfaces 71, 73, 75, 77, and 79. The axis K of the thread spool 80 extends approximately parallel to the inclination direction of the mounting surfaces 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78. The housing 69 of this embodiment can accommodate 40 thread spools 80.

[0150] Referring to Figure 13(B), the operation for registering the colors of threads 86 of multiple thread spools 80 housed in the housing 69 to the registration list 141 will be explained. The user tilts the thread color registration device 1 relative to a horizontal plane and photographs the thread spools 80 housed in the housing 69 in a position approximately parallel to the flange 88. In this case, the thread color registration device 1 can read the two-dimensional code 90 with the image sensor 11 without changing the orientation of the thread spools 80 while they are positioned in the housing 69. The CPU 6 detects up to 40 two-dimensional codes 90 in processing S4.

[0151] The housing 69 of system 4 helps the user visually confirm the color of the thread 86 wound on the thread spool 80 while the spool 80 is housed inside the housing 69. The user can photograph multiple thread spools 80 housed in the housing 69 while checking the display 18. The housing 69 also helps to facilitate the operation of photographing the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80.

[0152] The configuration of the housing 69 may be modified as appropriate. The number of thread spools 80 that the housing 69 can accommodate should be one or more. The housing 69 does not need to have at least some of the multiple partition plates 67. When the housing 69 is placed on a horizontal surface M, the length in the inclination direction of the mounting surfaces 70 to 79 and the inclination in the inclination direction with respect to the horizontal may be modified as appropriate. Length L1 may be greater than or equal to length L2.

[0153] (B) The program, which includes instructions for executing the list image display process in Figure 4, the pattern image display process in Figure 8, the pattern color list image display process in Figure 10, and the pattern color replacement process in Figure 11, only needs to be stored in memory 14 before the CPU 6 executes the program. Therefore, the method of acquiring the program, the acquisition path, and the device that stores the program can each be changed as appropriate. The program executed by each device may be received from other devices via cable or wireless communication and stored in a storage device. Other devices include, for example, a PC and a server connected via a network.

[0154] (C) The steps of the list image display process in Figure 4, the pattern image display process in Figure 8, the pattern color list image display process in Figure 10, and the pattern color replacement process in Figure 11 are not limited to the example where they are performed by CPU 6. Each step may be partially or entirely performed by other electronic devices such as ASICs. Other electronic devices may be provided in devices other than the yarn color registration device 1. Each step may be processed in a distributed manner by multiple electronic devices such as multiple CPUs. Each step can be reordered, omitted, or added as needed. The following modifications may be made to the list image display process in Figure 4, the pattern image display process in Figure 8, the pattern color list image display process in Figure 10, and the pattern color replacement process in Figure 11 as appropriate.

[0155] The information shown in the list image may be changed as appropriate. The list image may only show registered colors and may not show unregistered colors. If the two-dimensional code 90 of the thread spool 80 indicates identification information and the identification information is registered in the registration list 141, the CPU 6 may display the list image J shown in Figure 14 at S18 in Figure 4. The list image J is a list image corresponding to the registration list 141 shown in Figure 6(D), and shows the number of second thread spools 82 according to the number of identification information associated with the second color. The CPU 6 may obtain the number of second thread spools 82 by measuring the number of identification information associated with the second color. The CPU 6 may register the number of second colors in the registration list 141 and obtain the number of second colors registered in the registration list 141. The display processing of the thread color registration program contributes to the user easily understanding the number of second thread spools 82. In the list image G7, the CPU 6 may display the number of second colors around the first icon Q1 that indicates the second color. The CPU 6 may display the number of second colors instead of the color number. If a second color is selected, the number of items of the second color may be displayed in column G8.

[0156] The method for distinguishing between registered and unregistered colors may be modified as appropriate. For example, the second icon Q2 may be painted with an unregistered color instead of gray. In that case, the thread color registration device 1 may distinguish between registered and unregistered colors by, for example, the difference in shape between the first icon representing a registered color and the second icon representing an unregistered color. The icons representing registered colors and the icons representing unregistered colors may be similar, and the CPU 6 may distinguish between registered and unregistered colors by the size of the icons.

[0157] CPU6 may distinguish between registered and unregistered colors by setting the line type of the outline of the icon representing a registered color and the line type of the outline of the icon representing an unregistered color to be different from each other. CPU6 may represent registered colors with icons filled with registered colors, and unregistered colors with icons that have an outline of an unregistered color and are filled with a specific color such as gray.

[0158] In the list image and the pattern color list image, registered colors and unregistered colors may be indicated by color names, but color numbers may not be indicated. In this case, as shown in the list image J in Figure 14, the CPU 6 may distinguish between registered and unregistered colors by displaying the background of the color name of the unregistered color in a specific color such as gray during processing S18.

[0159] The storage format of registered and unregistered colors in memory 14 may be changed as appropriate. For example, registered and unregistered colors may be distinguished by a flag attached to the color list 142 that stores registered and unregistered colors. In this case, the color list 142 containing the flag corresponds to the registered list. Memory 14 may not store the color list or the registered list, but only the registered colors. In this case, the memory where the registered colors are stored corresponds to the registered list. The storage format of registered colors is not limited to the format of this embodiment, as long as it is a format that allows the CPU 6 to distinguish between registered colors and other data such as unregistered colors.

[0160] Memory 14 may store an unregistered color list separate from the registered color list 141 and the color list 142, and may register unregistered colors in the unregistered color list. In this case, when updating the registered color list, the unregistered color list will be updated as needed. The color list and the unregistered color list may be stored, but the registered list may not be stored. In this case, registered colors can be derived based on the color list and the unregistered color list.

[0161] The registration list 141 does not need to register identification information if it registers information that identifies the color of the thread 86 of the thread spool 80. The registration list 141 may store one or more types of information selected from color number, identification information, RGB value, and color name.

[0162] Processes S1, S11 to S13 in the list image display process of Figure 4 may be omitted as appropriate. CPU 6 may omit S1 and perform process S13 if the identification information is already registered in the registration list 141 (S11: YES). CPU 6 may omit S12 and perform a deletion process to delete the color number of the detected color from the registration list 141 if the color indicated by the detected two-dimensional code 902 is a registered color (S10: YES).

[0163] The pattern image display process in Figure 8, the pattern color list image display process in Figure 10, and the pattern color replacement process in Figure 11 may be omitted or modified as appropriate. The extraction conditions for available colors may not be set. In this case, the processes from S21 to S24 may be omitted. The number, arrangement, size, etc., of the patterns included in the pattern image displayed in S74 may be changed as appropriate.

[0164] The pattern data may be modified as appropriate, and may include, for example, a pattern name. The pattern data does not have to include sewing data or pattern image data. If the pattern data does not include sewing data, the CPU 6 may use the color data for each pixel included in the pattern image data to identify the pattern color and perform various processing. The pattern image data may be generated by the thread color registration device 1 based on the sewing data.

[0165] CPU6 may, in S24, display a predetermined number of registered colors on display 18 as similar color candidates in order of similarity to the pattern color. The order of similarity to the pattern color is, for example, in order of the smallest calculated Euclidean distance between the RGB values ​​of the pattern color of interest and the RGB values ​​of the registered colors. In this case, CPU6 may select a color chosen by the user from the predetermined candidates as a similar color.

[0166] The method for determining similar colors can be set as appropriate. The CPU 6 may use color standards such as CMYK values ​​or HSV values ​​instead of RGB values ​​to determine similar colors. The yarn color registration device 1 may store a list of similar colors in advance in the memory 14. The list of similar colors only needs to store multiple similar colors associated with each other. The CPU 6 may use a different color difference formula instead of the Euclidean distance of RGB values ​​to determine similar colors.

[0167] The pattern color list image does not have to include the pattern color icon D1 and the indicator icon D2. The shape, size, color, and placement of the pattern color icon D1 and the indicator icon D2 may be changed as appropriate. CPU6 does not accept a setting to assign the indicator icon D2 to an unregistered color or to a registered color, and may assign the indicator icon D2 to a predetermined pattern color icon D1 that indicates an unregistered color or a registered color. CPU6 may assign a first indicator icon indicating an unregistered color to the pattern color icon D1 of an unregistered color, and CPU6 may assign a second indicator icon indicating a registered color to the pattern color icon of a registered color. CPU6 may designate the pattern color icon of a registered color as the first icon, and the pattern color icon of an unregistered color as the second icon which has a different shape or size from the first icon. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1: Thread color registration device, 2: Sewing machine, 4: Thread color registration system, 5: Server, 6, 41: CPU, 11: Image sensor, 14, 44: Memory, 18: Display, 19: Input unit, 80 to 83: Thread spool, Thread, 86, 69: Housing, 70 to 79: Mounting surface, D1: Pattern color icon, D2: Marking icon, P1, Q1: First icon, P2, Q2: Second icon

Claims

1. The processor of a thread color registration device comprising an image sensor, a display, and a processor, registers the thread color of a thread spool in a registration list stored in memory, The aforementioned image sensor performs a detection process to detect a two-dimensional code, A registration process in which a second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, is registered in the registration list in which the first color, which is the color of the thread of the first thread spool, is registered, wherein the second color is the color of the thread of a second thread spool that is different from the first thread spool. A display process that displays a list image on the display showing multiple registered colors which are registered in the registration list, wherein the registered colors include the first color and the second color. A thread color registration program characterized by including instructions to perform an action.

2. The aforementioned detection process is a process for detecting multiple two-dimensional codes, The registration process is a process of registering the second and third colors, which are the colors indicated by the plurality of two-dimensional codes, in the registration list, wherein the third color is the color of the thread of a third thread spool that is different from the first and second thread spools. The yarn color registration program according to claim 1, characterized in that the registered color includes the first color, the second color, and the third color.

3. The two-dimensional code indicates the second color and further indicates identification information that uniquely identifies the second thread spool. The yarn color registration program according to claim 1, characterized in that the registration process is a process of associating the second color with the identification information of the second yarn spool and registering it in the registration list.

4. If the identification information of the second thread piece is not registered in the registration list, the registration process is executed. The thread color registration program according to claim 3, characterized in that it includes an instruction not to perform the registration process if the identification information of the second thread spool is registered in the registration list.

5. The memory further stores unregistered colors, which are colors that can be registered in the registration list but are not registered in the registration list. The thread color registration program according to claim 1, characterized in that the display process is a process of displaying the list image on the display which distinguishes between the registered color and the unregistered color.

6. The yarn color registration program according to claim 5, characterized in that the list image shows the registered colors and the unregistered colors by a color number which is a number indicating a color.

7. The yarn color registration program according to claim 6, characterized in that the list image shows the background of the color number of the registered color in the registered color, and the background of the color number of the unregistered color in gray.

8. The yarn color registration program according to claim 5, characterized in that the list image shows the registered color by a first icon of the registered color, and the unregistered color by a second icon that has a different shape from the first icon.

9. The thread color registration program according to claim 1, further comprising an instruction to perform a first pattern display process that displays a first pattern image on the display showing a pattern sewn using only the registered color thread.

10. The thread color registration program according to claim 9, which further includes an instruction to perform the second pattern display process on the display, the second pattern display process which shows a pattern sewn with thread of a color that includes one specific color from among the unregistered colors and the registered color, wherein the unregistered color is a color that is not registered in the registration list among the colors that can be registered in the registration list.

11. The thread color registration program according to claim 1, characterized in that, in a pattern image showing a sewing pattern, a substitution process is performed to replace unregistered colors included in the pattern image with registered colors, wherein the unregistered color is a color that is not registered in the registration list among the colors that can be registered in the registration list, and the substitution process is further performed by an instruction to execute the substitution process.

12. The yarn color registration program according to claim 11, characterized in that the substitution process is a process of substituting the unregistered color included in the pattern image with a similar color, the similar color being a registered color included in the pattern image and similar to the unregistered color.

13. A thread color registration program according to claim 1, comprising a pattern color display process that displays a pattern color list image on the display, distinguishing between registered colors and unregistered colors among the pattern colors which are colors that indicate the pattern to be sewn, wherein the unregistered colors are colors that are among the colors that can be registered in the registration list but are not registered in the registration list, and further includes an instruction to execute the pattern color display process.

14. The aforementioned pattern color list image is A pattern color icon indicating the aforementioned pattern color, The registered color is shown among the pattern colors, and the sign icon is placed near the pattern color icon. The yarn color registration program according to claim 13, characterized by including the following:

15. If the second color detected in the detection process is not registered in the registration list, the registration process is executed. The thread color registration program according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the second color detected in the detection process is registered in the registration list, the program further includes an instruction to perform a deletion process that removes the second color indicated by the two-dimensional code from the registration list without performing the registration process.

16. If the identification information of the second thread piece is not registered in the registration list, the registration process is executed. The thread color registration program according to claim 3, further comprising an instruction to delete an identification information process, which deletes the identification information of the second thread spool from the registration list, if the identification information of the second thread spool is registered in the registration list, instead of performing the registration process.

17. The thread color registration program according to claim 16, further characterized in that the list image shows the number of second thread pieces corresponding to the number of identification information associated with the second color.

18. A method for registering thread colors in which a processor registers the thread color of a spool in a registration list stored in memory, A detection process that detects a two-dimensional code using an image sensor, A registration process in which a second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, is registered in the registration list in which the first color, which is the color of the thread of the first thread spool, is registered, wherein the second color is the color of the thread of a second thread spool that is different from the first thread spool. A display process that displays a list image on a display showing multiple registered colors which are registered in the registration list, wherein the registered colors include the first color and the second color. A method for registering thread colors, characterized by comprising the following features.

19. First thread piece, A second thread piece, which is different from the first thread piece, and which has a two-dimensional code, A memory that stores a registration list for registering the thread colors of the thread spools, Image sensor and The display and Processor and A thread color registration system comprising: The aforementioned processor, The image sensor performs a detection process to detect the two-dimensional code, A registration process in which a second color, which is the color indicated by the two-dimensional code, is registered in the registration list in which the first color, which is the color of the thread of the first thread spool, is registered, wherein the second color is the color of the thread of the second thread spool, A display process that displays a list image on the display showing multiple registered colors which are registered in the registration list, wherein the registered colors include the first color and the second color. A thread color registration system characterized by performing the following actions.

20. The housing further comprises a mounting surface which is inclined with respect to the horizontal when placed on a horizontal surface. The second thread spool is placed on the aforementioned mounting surface and housed in the housing. The yarn color registration system according to claim 19, characterized in that the detection process detects the two-dimensional code possessed by the second yarn spool housed in the housing.

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