Printing system, printing device, information processing device, and their control methods and programs

Abstract

To prevent a printing job from bringing a result not intended by a user when a sheet for adjustment is inserted between sheets arranged in a specific order (sheets whose arrangement order is regulated) in a printer into which a sheet with a colorimetric patch for gray level correction printed is inserted for adjustment during outputting the printing job.SOLUTION: A printing system includes: an information processing device; and a printer for receiving a printing job from the information processing device to execute printing. The information processing device sets a sheet obtained by printing a patch for gray level correction so as to be inserted into the printing job. The printer performs control so as not to insert the sheet obtained by printing the patch on the basis of a kind of sheets to be used for the printing job in the case that the printing job includes setting for inserting the sheet obtained by printing the patch for gray level correction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system, a printing apparatus and an information processing apparatus, their control methods, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a printing system in which an in-line sensor is connected to the subsequent stage of a printing apparatus that forms an image on a sheet, and the in-line sensor reads the image on the sheet formed by the printing apparatus. In such a printing system, the printing apparatus outputs a printed matter on which patches are printed in the margin for adjusting the image formation position and image quality. Then, the in-line sensor reads the patches, and based on the results, adjusts the image formation position and image quality of the printing apparatus. By reading the patches printed by the printing apparatus after the adjustment with the in-line sensor, the adjustment result can be fed back to the printing apparatus in real time.

[0003] However, depending on the print data, there may be no margin for printing patches on the printed matter. In that case, by inserting sheets on which only patches are printed at regular intervals during the output of the print job and performing adjustment, it becomes possible to keep the image formation position and image quality of the entire printed matter constant (hereinafter referred to as interrupt adjustment).

[0004] Patent Document 1 proposes a method in which the printing apparatus receives from the user a setting of the feeding stage and the allowable density variation range for the output printed from that feeding stage, and outputs a test sheet at a timing (prescribed number of image formation sheets) based on the allowable density variation range according to the user's setting.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, with the conventional technology described above, users can match the paper feed tray used for a print job with the paper feed tray used for an interrupt adjustment job. However, if paper with a specific order (such as the tab position on tab paper) is consumed in an interrupt adjustment job, the paper order will be different after the job resumes. In such cases, the output result adjusted by the interrupt will differ from what was originally intended, causing a problem. To avoid such problems, the user must decide in advance whether to instruct an interrupt adjustment based on whether the paper feed tray is available for use in an interrupt adjustment job, and this setting was not easy.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the prior art described above.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a technology that can prevent the user from obtaining an output different from the result they intended through interrupt adjustment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To achieve the above objective, a printing system according to one aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, A printing system comprising an information processing device and a printing device that receives a print job from the information processing device and performs printing, The aforementioned information processing device is The print job has a setting means for setting a sheet of paper on which a patch for gradation correction has been printed. The aforementioned printing apparatus, The present invention is characterized by having a control means that, when the print job includes a setting to insert paper on which a patch for gradation correction is printed, controls the insertion of paper on which the patch is printed based on the type of paper used in the print job. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, when the setting includes inserting a sheet of paper with a patch for gradation correction printed on it, interrupt adjustment can prevent the user from obtaining an output different from the result they intended.

[0011] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same or similar components are given the same reference numeral. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] The attached drawings are included in the specification and constitute part thereof, illustrating embodiments of the present invention and are used together with the description to explain the principles of the present invention. [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating the configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a printing apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] A functional block diagram illustrating the software configuration of a printing apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure (A) shows an example of a printer driver print settings screen for a user to configure print settings for a printing device, which operates in the information processing device according to the embodiment, and Figure (B) shows an example of a settings screen displayed on the operation unit of the printing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] A sequence diagram illustrating the process of registering correction information in a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating the process associated with changing the paper type registered in each paper feed stage of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a setting screen for registering paper types in the paper feed stage of a printing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure (A) shows an example of outputting gradation correction mark information (gradation patch) for real-time gradation correction according to the embodiment, and Figure (B) is a cross-sectional view of the transport path of the printing device seen from the side. [Figure 9]FIG. (A) showing an example of reference information, measured values, and correction information generated based on CMYK density information scanned by a color sensor, FIG. (B) showing an example of a table for the reference information storage unit to manage the reference information, and FIG. (C) showing an example of a table for the correction information storage unit to manage the correction information. [Figure 10] Sequence diagram for explaining the printing process by the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Sequence diagram for explaining the process of printing a patch for gradation correction and inserting a sheet by the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] Sequence diagram for explaining the flow of the process when registering the print interval of the chart for interrupt adjustment in the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] Flowchart (A) for explaining the process of checking the registration of the interrupt print interval of S1201 in FIG. 12 and FIG. (B) showing an example of a warning screen according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] Flowchart (A) for explaining the process of checking chart insertion by the information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 3 and FIG. (B) showing an example of a warning screen according to Embodiment 3.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although a plurality of features are described in the embodiments, not all of these plurality of features are essential for the invention, and the plurality of features may be arbitrarily combined. Further, in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] In this printing system, the information processing device 102 and the printing device 101 are connected via a LAN 100 (network). The printing device 101 can print according to the print jobs received from the information processing device 102.

[0016] In the embodiments, the above configuration example is described as an example of a printing system, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient that at least one information processing device and a printing device are connected to each other via a network so as to be able to communicate. The network may be wireless or wired.

[0017] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a printing device 101 according to an embodiment. This printing device 101 has a printing function for printing images onto sheets. In this embodiment, a printing device having only a printing function is described as an example, but a printing device such as an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) that includes a scanner and fax function may also be used.

[0018] The control unit 200, including the CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, controls the operation of the entire printing device 101. The CPU 201 loads programs stored in the ROM (Read Only Memory) 202 or storage 204 into the RAM 203, and executes the loaded programs to perform various controls such as print control and read control. The ROM 202 stores control programs and boot programs that can be executed by the CPU 201. The RAM (Random Access Memory) 203 is the main memory of the CPU 201 and is used as the work area of ​​the CPU 210 and as a temporary storage area for loading various control programs. The storage 204 stores print data, image data, various programs, and various setting information. In this embodiment, an auxiliary storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) is assumed as the storage 204, but non-volatile memory such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) may also be used. In this embodiment of the printing device 101, one CPU 201 uses one memory (RAM 203) to execute each process shown in the flowchart described later, but other configurations are also possible. For example, multiple CPUs, RAM, ROM, and storage may work together to execute each process shown in the flowchart described later. Alternatively, some processes may be executed using hardware circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0019] The operation interface (I / F) 205 connects the operation unit 206 and the control unit 200. The operation unit 206 is equipped with a display unit with touch panel functionality and various hard keys, and functions as a display output unit for displaying information and a reception unit for receiving user instructions. The image processing unit 207 has the functionality of a RIP (Raster Image Processor) that unpacks print jobs received via the communication unit I / F 208 and generates image data for printing. The image processing unit 207 can also perform resolution conversion and correction processing on the image data obtained by unpacking the print jobs. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the image processing unit 207 is implemented as a hardware circuit (such as an ASIC or FPGA), but it is not limited to this. For example, the printing device 101 may further include a processor for image processing purposes, and that processor may execute an image processing program to realize image processing and unpacking into print data. In this case, that processor and the CPU 201 will cooperate to realize the flowchart described later. Furthermore, the CPU 201 may be configured to execute a program for image processing and perform image processing and unpacking into print data. Alternatively, image processing may be performed using any combination of these methods.

[0020] The printing unit (printer engine) 209 prints an image onto a sheet fed from a paper cassette (not shown) based on the image data generated by the image processing unit 207. The printing method of the printing unit 209 may be electrophotographic, inkjet, or other printing methods such as thermal transfer.

[0021] The colorimeter 210 is located downstream of the paper transport path of the printing unit 209 and measures the color of each gradation patch of the gradation correction marks formed on the printed sheet using a CIS color sensor to acquire colorimeter data.

[0022] The control unit 200 is connected to the LAN 100 via the communication interface 208. The communication interface 208 receives print requests (print jobs) from information processing devices on the LAN 100.

[0023] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating the software configuration of the printing apparatus 101 according to this embodiment.

[0024] When a job is submitted, the print job generation unit 301 generates a print job and registers it with the job control unit 303. The job control unit 303 then informs the page control unit 304 of the page to be processed first, starting from the first page, for all pages included in the registered print job, and starts processing the pages. When the job control unit 303 receives notification from the page control unit 304 that the next page is ready to be processed, it informs the page control unit 304 to start processing the next page, and repeats this process. When the job control unit 303 receives notification from the page control unit 304 that processing has been completed for all pages, it notifies the print job generation unit 301 that the job has been completed.

[0025] The page control unit 304 receives notification from the job control unit 303 that page processing has started and controls the processing of each page. The data reception control unit 302 receives PDL data transmitted from the information processing device 102 via the communication unit I / F 208. The PDL analysis unit 305 analyzes the received PDL data and converts it into intermediate data. The RIP control unit 306 rasterizes the intermediate data and converts it into bitmap image data.

[0026] The image generation unit 307 applies correction information for the paper used for printing to the generated bitmap image data to generate corrected image data for printing. It then transfers this image data to the patch synthesis unit 309 of the engine control unit 308. The image generation unit 307 controls the image processing unit 207 shown in Figure 2.

[0027] The engine control unit 308 includes a patch blending unit 309, a correction information storage unit 310, a reference information storage unit 311, a sensor control unit 312, a paper feed stage management unit 313, a paper feed control unit 314, and a print control unit 315. The sensor control unit 312 controls the colorimeter unit 210. The patch blending unit 309, correction information storage unit 310, reference information storage unit 311, paper feed stage management unit 313, a paper feed control unit 314, and a print control unit 315 control the print unit 209 shown in Figure 2.

[0028] The patch synthesis unit 309 synthesizes tone correction mark information (tone patches) into the print image data so that tone correction marks are formed in addition to the image formed based on the corrected image data received from the image generation unit 307. Then, it instructs the print control unit 315 to print the synthesized image data.

[0029] The paper feed control unit 314 controls the paper feed stage according to the print job instructions and transports and feeds the paper contained in the paper feed stage. The print control unit 315 prints the print image data and the print image data with gradation patches combined onto the paper supplied by the paper feed control unit 314 and discharges the paper. In this embodiment, an image is formed on the paper based on image data to which gradation correction mark information (gradation patches) is added as needed.

[0030] The sensor control unit 312 controls the colorimeter 210 to measure the gradation correction marks (gradation patches) formed on the paper and acquires the colorimeter data.

[0031] The reference information storage unit 311 stores reference information generated based on color measurement data acquired by the sensor control unit 312, associated with the type of paper set in the paper feed stage. The correction information storage unit 310 stores correction information obtained by comparing the reference information stored in the reference information storage unit 311 with the color measurement data acquired by the sensor control unit 312, associated with the type of paper set in the paper feed stage. The paper feed stage management unit 313 manages information on the size and type of paper set in all paper feed stages of the printing device 101. In addition, the paper feed stage management unit 313 clears the reference information held by the reference information storage unit 311 that corresponds to the type of paper to be removed for replacement, in response to a paper registration request from the UI control unit 316. Furthermore, if the correction information storage unit 310 holds correction information corresponding to the type of paper to be removed for replacement, the paper feed stage management unit 313 also clears that correction information.

[0032] When a user operates the control unit 206 to set paper information associated with the paper feed tray, the UI control unit 316 requests the paper feed tray management unit 313 to register the paper. Furthermore, when a user requests to display registered paper information, the UI control unit 316 displays the information of the registered paper on the control unit 206. The UI control unit 316 controls the control unit 206.

[0033] Figure 4(A) shows an example of a printer driver print settings screen used by a user to configure print settings for a printer device 101, which operates on the information processing device 102 according to this embodiment.

[0034] Real-time multi-tone correction is a correction function that suppresses tonal fluctuations during printing by forming tonal patches on the paper for tonal correction, measuring these patches in real time with a colorimeter sensor, and feeding back the correction information obtained to subsequent pages. There are two types of real-time multi-tone correction: a margin-utilizing type that prints patches using the margins of the paper to be printed, and a chart insertion type (interrupt adjustment) that inserts a special sheet of paper and prints patches on it when the margins of the paper to be printed cannot be used. In the margin-utilizing type, a patch is printed in the margin of the paper for each page on which the image data entered by the user is printed, and feedback correction is performed. In contrast, in the interrupt adjustment type, a special sheet is inserted at an insertion interval set in advance in the printing device 101, and feedback correction is performed. Whether to perform real-time multi-tone correction using the margin-utilizing type or the interrupt adjustment type is instructed to the printing device when submitting a print job by the user. Furthermore, since this embodiment relates to a control method for interrupt adjustment where the margins of the paper to be printed cannot be used, the detailed explanation of the margin-utilizing type will be omitted, and the interrupt adjustment type will be explained in detail.

[0035] This print settings screen 400 shows the printer driver screen. Tabs 401 to 406 include the Basic Settings tab 401, Page Setup tab 402, Finishing tab 403, Adjustment tab 404, Paper Feed tab 405, and Print Quality tab 406. When any of these tabs 401 to 406 is selected, the settings screen corresponding to the selected tab is displayed. Figure 4(A) shows an example of the settings screen when the Adjustment tab 404 is selected.

[0036] Adjustment item 407 is used to select the type of adjustment to perform using checkboxes. In the figure, both "Front / Back Image Position" and "Gradation" are selected. Adjustments performed using the inline sensor include real-time multi-gradation correction for adjusting image quality, as described in this embodiment, and front / back registration adjustment for adjusting the image formation position, although this is not described in this embodiment. In Figure 4(A), "Gradation" for real-time multi-gradation correction and "Front / Back Image Position" for front / back registration adjustment are selected, but only real-time multi-gradation correction will be described here.

[0037] The adjustment method 408 is configured to allow the user to choose between either the margin-utilizing type 409 or the interrupt adjustment (chart insertion type) 410 for adjusting the above adjustment items. In Figure 4(A), the interrupt adjustment (chart insertion type) 410 is selected.

[0038] Other tabs include: Selecting the Basic Settings tab 401 displays a menu that allows for basic print settings such as the number of copies, print orientation, magnification, and output method. Selecting the Page Setup tab 402 displays a menu that allows for setting the page layout and magnification of the output image. Selecting the Finishing tab 403 displays a menu that allows for setting single-sided / double-sided printing, binding direction, and paper output method. Selecting the Paper Feed tab 405 displays a menu that allows for selecting which paper tray of the printer 101 to use for output. Selecting the Print Quality tab 406 displays a menu that allows for setting the output image quality, such as color mode (color / monochrome) and resolution. When the user presses the OK button 411 on this print settings screen 400, the information processing device 102 generates a print job and sends it to the printer 101 via the LAN 100. The Cancel button 412 cancels the settings on this screen 400 and returns to the screen before displaying this screen 400.

[0039] Figure 4(B) shows an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation unit 206 of the printing device 101 according to this embodiment.

[0040] This settings screen 420 is displayed when a print job is generated in Figure 4(A) where "Gradation" is specified in adjustment item 407 and "Chart Insertion Type" 410 is specified in adjustment method 408 from the printer driver, and then sent to the printer 101. This settings screen 420 is used to specify the interval for interrupt printing of insert sheets that print only gradation patches in the case of real-time multi-gradation correction chart insertion type. In the numerical field 421, any numerical value can be entered to specify the interval for printing the insert sheets by pressing the numeric keypad (not shown) on the operation unit 206, or the minus or plus key 422. After entering this numerical value, the user presses the OK button 423 to complete the setting. If the Cancel button 424 is pressed, the settings on this screen are canceled and the user returns to the previously displayed screen. The printer 101 accepts the setting value for chart insertion type using this settings screen 420 and controls based on it. The information set via this screen is stored in the reference information storage unit 311 for each paper type. Next, the printing position of the gradation correction mark information (gradation patch) for gradation correction according to the embodiment, the color sensor for measuring the printed color patch, and the management table that holds the signal value from the color sensor and the correction information derived from that signal value will be explained with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0041] Figure 8(A) shows an example of outputting gradation correction mark information (gradation patch) for real-time gradation correction according to the embodiment.

[0042] The patches necessary for real-time multi-tone correction are printed in the margin area defined inside the printing paper 800 and outside the print guarantee area 801 of the paper. The print guarantee area 801 is the part that will become the final output and is the area where the printing of the user image is guaranteed. On the other hand, there is an area outside the print guarantee area 801 where image formation is possible, but it is assumed that this area will be cut off and removed from the final output.

[0043] Patches for real-time gradation correction are printed in a row outside the print guarantee area 801, and these patches are read by sensors 861 and 862 on the print surface side. For this reason, the patches for each color are arranged in a direction parallel to the transport direction, corresponding to the positions of these sensors 861 and 862. The print paper 800 has sets of cyan patches 810, magenta patches 850, yellow patches 830, and black patches 840 printed on it. In each set of patches, 10 patches of that color density are arranged in 10% increments, and a total of 40 patches are printed in the four sets.

[0044] For example, in the cyan patch set 810, the leftmost cyan patch 820 has a density of 100%, and the density decreases in 10% increments to the right, with the rightmost cyan patch 829 having a density of 10%. The magenta, yellow, and black patch sets also consist of 10 patches each, and feedback information necessary for gradation correction is generated only when the reference values ​​and measured data for all four colors are available. These patch groups are combined by the patch synthesis unit 309 with the image data generated by the image generation unit 307.

[0045] In this embodiment, since the method proposes inserting a sheet of paper with only gradation patches printed on it in order to print a group of patches on paper where the margins of the printed material cannot be used, it is permissible to print the group of patches in the print guarantee area 801. However, in order to read the group of patches using the same sensor as when using the margins of the printed material and perform real-time gradation correction, these groups of patches should be printed outside the print guarantee area 801.

[0046] Figure 8(B) is a cross-sectional view of the transport path of the printing device 101, seen from the side.

[0047] Toner is transferred to the printing paper 800 using the YMCK color developing units 871-874 and then fixed in the fuser unit 875. After that, each patch of the patch sets 810, 830, 840, and 850 is read by color sensors 861 and 862, which are installed at both the left and right ends in the transport direction and on the print side of the paper.

[0048] Figure 9(A) shows an example of reference information, measured values, and correction information generated based on the CMYK density information scanned by color sensors 861 and 862.

[0049] As shown in Figure 8(A), 10 patches for each of the CMYK colors, totaling 40 patches, are printed on the printing paper 800. When these are read by the color sensors 861 and 862, 40 measurement values ​​are obtained. In this embodiment, the sensor control unit 312 quantifies and stores the patch density read by the color sensors 861 and 862 in 1024 steps. The color measurement results notified by the sensor control unit 312 are stored as reference information in the reference information storage unit 311, associated with the type of paper set in the paper feed stage. In this way, these color measurement results are managed for each type of paper.

[0050] If the color measurement result of the paper notified by the sensor control unit 312 is for a paper type not registered in the reference information storage unit 311, the 40 color measurement results are saved as new reference information 881. If the color measurement result of the paper notified by the sensor control unit 312 is for a paper type already registered in the reference information storage unit 311, the color measurement result is treated as a new "measured value" 882, and correction information 883 is calculated from the difference between the reference information and the measured value. This correction information is stored in the correction information storage unit 310. In this embodiment, correction information is saved, but it is also possible to save the measured value and calculate the correction information each time from the difference between the reference information and the measured value.

[0051] Figure 9(B) shows an example of a table in which the reference information storage unit 311 manages reference information. The record information includes the following items: paper type 891, target paper feed stage 892, reference information (1 / 2 speed) 893, reference information (1 / 1 speed) 894, generated page ID 895, and Timestamp (date and time information) 896.

[0052] The reference information in the table in Figure 9(B) shows that plain paper 3 was set in paper feed tray 1 (CST1), and that the cumulative printing process for page 60014 since power-on was performed at 10:04:06 on 2019 / 07 / 18. Plain paper 3 was then fed from paper feed tray 1 at 1 / 1 speed, and the print result was measured and registered as reference information. When plain paper 3 is removed from paper feed tray 1, this record information is deleted.

[0053] Figure 9(C) shows an example of a table used by the correction information storage unit 310 to manage correction information. The basic structure of this table is the same as the table used to manage reference information in Figure 9(B), except that the reference information is replaced by correction information. Specifically, the record information includes the following items: paper type, target paper feed stage 897, correction information (1 / 2 speed) 898, correction information (1 / 1 speed) 899, generated page, and Timestamp (date and time information). In this case as well, if the paper in question is removed from the target paper feed stage 897, its record information is deleted. Figure 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating the process of registering correction information in the printing apparatus 101 according to this embodiment. This process is realized when the CPU 201 of the printing apparatus 101 loads the program stored in the ROM 202 into the RAM 203 and executes it.

[0054] When the printing device 101 forms an image on paper, the characteristics for image formation differ depending on the type of paper. Therefore, in order for the printing device 101 to perform gradation correction correctly, it is necessary to store reference information for each type of paper. Although the printing device 101 supports many types of paper, the paper actually used must be set in the paper feed tray, so the reference information storage unit 311 only stores reference information for the paper type set in the paper feed tray. Therefore, when a user sets new paper in the paper feed tray of the printing device 101, the reference information and correction information for the paper type that will be removed for replacement are cleared.

[0055] First, in S501, the user operates the UI screen displayed on the control panel 206 of the printer 101 to select the paper feed stage setting screen. Next, in S502, the UI control unit 316 of the printer 101, upon receiving the user's input, obtains information on the size and type of paper set in all the paper feed stages of the printer 101 from the paper feed stage management unit 313. Then, in S503, the UI control unit 316 displays the information obtained in S502 on the UI screen. An example of this screen is shown in Figure 7(A).

[0056] Figure 7(A) shows an example of a paper feed stage setting screen for registering paper types in the paper feed stage of the printing device 101 according to this embodiment.

[0057] Here, the UI control unit 316 queries the paper feed tray management unit 313 for the current paper feed tray settings, and the result is displayed on screen 700. On this screen, the printer 101 has four paper feed trays, and buttons 701 to 704 corresponding to each are displayed. In the example shown, button 701, which corresponds to paper feed tray 1, is selected. When the setting button 705 is pressed in this state, screen 710 shown in Figure 7(B) is displayed. On this screen, the user can select the paper type to be set for the paper feed tray selected in Figure 7(A). In Figure 7(B), "Plain Paper 3" 707 is selected.

[0058] Returning to Figure 5, in S504, the user selects the paper feed tray for which they want to change the paper type from the UI screen of the printer 101 (Figure 7(A)) and presses the setting button 705. As a result, in S505, the UI control unit 316 of the printer 101 displays a list of paper types that can be set for the selected paper feed tray on the UI screen, as shown in Figure 7(B). Then, in S506, the user selects the paper type they want to change on the screen in Figure 7(B) and presses the OK button 708. This returns to screen 700 in Figure 7(A), and when the OK button 706 is pressed on screen 700, this paper feed tray setting screen 700 is closed and the registration of the paper type to the paper feed tray is performed. As a result, in S507, the UI control unit 316 of the printer 101 requests the paper feed tray management unit 313 to register the paper feed tray and paper type selected by the user. In the example in Figure 7, it requests that "Plain Paper 3" be registered to paper feed tray 1.

[0059] As a result, in S508, the paper feed stage management unit 313 updates the information stored in the reference information storage unit 311 and the correction information storage unit 310. Details of this process will be described later with reference to the flowchart in Figure 6. If the paper feed stage management unit 313 determines that it is necessary to clear the reference information and correction information, it performs the clearing process for the reference information and correction information in S509 and S510. In S509, the paper feed stage management unit 313 clears the reference information for the paper type to be removed for replacement that was stored in the reference information storage unit 311. Furthermore, in S510, the paper feed stage management unit 313 determines whether correction information for the paper type to be removed for replacement exists in the correction information storage unit 310, and if it exists, clears that correction information. In this way, once the series of processes in S508 is completed, the paper feed stage management unit 313 performs the registration process for the paper type specified by the user in S511. Then, in S512, it notifies the UI control unit 316 that the registration is complete. After that, in S513, the UI control unit 316... The UI screen is updated based on the registered paper type information.

[0060] The above process will be explained again with reference to Figure 7. The user selects the paper feed tray for which to set the paper type on screen 700 in Figure 7(A). After selecting a specific paper feed tray (in this case, paper feed tray 1), the user presses the setting button 705 for setting the paper type (S504) to bring up the paper type setting screen 710 in Figure 7(B) (S505).

[0061] On the paper type selection screen 710, the user selects one paper type that matches the paper type set / to be set in the paper feed tray selected on screen 700. Here, "Plain Paper 1" is replaced with "Plain Paper 3" (S506). Then, pressing the OK button 708 in Figure 7(B) returns the user to screen 700. After confirming that the paper type has been changed, the user presses the OK button 706. The UI control unit 316 then notifies the paper feed tray management unit 313 of the user's setting (S507) and requests registration (S508).

[0062] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the process associated with changing the paper type registered in each paper feed stage of the printing apparatus 101 according to this embodiment. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 201 executing a program loaded into RAM 203.

[0063] Figure 6(A) is a flowchart illustrating the clearing process of standard information and correction information for each paper type. This flowchart shows the processing of the paper feed tray management unit 313 when the user requests registration of the paper feed tray and paper type selected by the user, as described in S507 of Figure 5 above.

[0064] First, in S601, the CPU 201 functions as a paper feed stage management unit 313 and receives a registration request for the paper feed stage and paper type selected by the user via the operation unit 206. Next, in S602, the paper feed stage management unit 313 determines whether or not there has been a change in the paper type in that paper feed stage. If there is no change (in the case of re-registration of the same paper type), this process ends. On the other hand, if there is a change, the process proceeds to S603. In S603, the paper feed stage management unit 313 determines whether the same paper type as the paper set in the paper feed stage to be changed is set in another paper feed stage. If the same paper type is set in another paper feed stage, the process proceeds to S605; otherwise, it proceeds to S604. In S604, since the paper feed stage management unit 313 will no longer use the previous paper type in all paper feed stages, it deletes the reference information and correction information (tables 881 and 883 in Figure 9(A)) for that paper type from the reference information storage unit 311 and the correction information storage unit 311, and proceeds to S605. In S605, the paper feed tray management unit 313 deletes the record for the paper type of the paper feed tray whose settings are to be changed from the reference information management table and the correction information management table (Figure 9(C)).

[0065] Figure 6(B) is a flowchart illustrating the registration of reference information and correction information for each paper type. This flowchart shows the processing flow of the reference information storage unit 311 and the correction information storage unit 310 when they receive notification of the color measurement result from the sensor control unit 312.

[0066] In S620, the CPU 201 functions as the reference information storage unit 311 and acquires the color measurement results from the sensor. Next, in S621, the reference information storage unit 311 determines whether a record for the paper feed stage associated with the color measurement results notified by the sensor control unit 312 is registered in the reference information management table, for example, Figure 9(B). If it determines that it is not registered, it proceeds to S622; if it determines that it is registered, it proceeds to S626. In S622, the reference information storage unit 311 determines whether the paper type associated with the color measurement results is registered in another paper feed stage in the reference information management table. If it determines that it is not registered, it proceeds to S623. In S623, the reference information storage unit 311 saves the color measurement results acquired in S620 as reference information (table 881 in Figure 9(A)). Then, in S624, the reference information storage unit 311 adds a record for the paper feed stage associated with the color measurement results acquired in S620 to the reference information management table. In this way, a linking process is performed that references the reference information saved in S623, and this process is terminated.

[0067] On the other hand, if the reference information storage unit 311 determines in S622 that the paper type associated with the color measurement result acquired in S620 is already registered in the reference information management table for another paper feed stage, the process proceeds to S625. In S625, the reference information storage unit 311 copies the record of the same paper type that was already registered in the reference information management table to the reference information management table as the record for the paper feed stage associated with the color measurement result acquired in S620. This saves the reference information for this paper type. Then, proceeding to S626, the reference information storage unit 311 calculates correction information from the measured value and the reference information, and notifies the correction information storage unit 310 of the calculated correction information. Then, in S627, the CPU 201 functions as the correction information storage unit 310, updates the correction information management table (Figure 9(C)) based on the information notified by the reference information storage unit 311, and terminates this process.

[0068] [Embodiment 1] This section will explain an example of applying real-time multi-tone correction to a print job using the gradation patches, reference information, correction information, and setting screen described above. Specifically, referring to Figures 10 and 11, we will explain the basic operation of interrupt adjustment, in which a sheet of paper with a colorimetric patch for gradation correction is inserted during the output of a print job, measured in real time by a colorimetric sensor, and the correction information is continuously fed back to subsequent pages.

[0069] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating the printing process by the printing device 101 according to Embodiment 1. This sequence is realized by the CPU 201 of the printing device 101 executing a program loaded into the RAM 203.

[0070] First, in S1001, the print job generation unit 301 generates a print job and registers it with the job control unit 303. As a result, in S1002, the job control unit 303 determines the execution order of the registered print jobs and begins processing them sequentially. Once the job control unit 303 begins processing a print job, in S1003, it notifies the page control unit 304 that processing of the Nth page has begun. Here, N is an integer with an initial value of "1," and is incremented by 1 each time a page is processed. Upon receiving notification from the job control unit 303 that processing of the Nth page has begun, the page control unit 304, in S1004, queries the paper feed unit management unit 313 to determine which paper feed unit to use based on the specified paper size and type for that page. In S1005, the paper feed unit management unit 313 determines which paper feed unit to use based on the specified paper size and type, and returns the result to the page control unit 304. In S1006, the page control unit 304 instructs the paper feed control unit 314 to feed paper from the paper feed stage determined by the paper feed stage management unit 313. In S1007, the paper feed control unit 314 feeds paper from the instructed paper feed stage in accordance with the paper feed instruction from the page control unit 304. Then, in S1008, it notifies the page control unit 304 of the paper feed result.

[0071] When the page control unit 304 receives a normal paper feed result from the paper feed control unit 314, in S1009 it notifies the job control unit 303 that processing of the next page can begin, along with information on the paper feed stage and paper type to be fed. Also, when the page control unit 304 receives a normal paper feed result from the paper feed control unit 314, in S1010 it instructs the image generation unit 307 to generate and transfer print image data. At this time, the page control unit 304 notifies the image generation unit 307 of the paper feed stage, paper size, and paper type to be fed. Upon receiving the instruction to generate and transfer print image data, the image generation unit 307 requests correction information from the correction information storage unit 310 in S1011 based on the notified information. In response, the correction information storage unit 310 searches in S1012 to see if the correction information corresponding to that information is stored in the RAM 203. When the correction information storage unit 310 detects the corresponding correction information, it notifies the image generation unit 307 of that correction information in S1013. Then, in S1014, the image generation unit 307 generates print image data using the correction information notified from the image information storage unit 310.

[0072] Meanwhile, if the correction information storage unit 310 cannot detect correction information corresponding to the information it has received, it notifies the image generation unit 307 in S1015 that there is no correction information. If there is no correction information, the image generation unit 307 generates uncorrected print image data in S1016. Then, in S1017, the image generation unit 307 sends the generated print image data to the print control unit 315 to instruct it to print. In this way, in S1018, the print control unit 315 prints the image on the paper supplied by the paper feed control unit 314 based on the received image data. The image printed here does not have any gradation adjustment mark information added to it. When printing is completed, in S1019, the print control unit 314 counts up the number of ejected sheets counter and stores it in the RAM 203. Furthermore, in S1020, the print control unit 315 notifies the page control unit 304 that printing is complete (paper ejection is complete). Thus, when the page control unit 304 receives a print completion (paper ejection completion) notification from the print control unit 315, it notifies the job control unit 303 in S1021 that the processing of page N is complete. When the job control unit 303 receives notification that the processing of page N is complete, it determines in S1022 whether page N is the last page of the print job. When the job control unit 303 determines that it has received notification that the printing of the last page is complete, it notifies the print job generation unit 301 in S1023 that the print job is finished. If page N is not the last page of the print job, it proceeds back to S1003 and starts processing the next page.

[0073] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating the process of printing a gradation correction patch and inserting paper using the printing device 101 according to Embodiment 1. This sequence is realized by the CPU 201 of the printing device 101 executing a program loaded into the RAM 203.

[0074] First, in S1101, the print control unit 315 determines, via the screen shown in Figure 4(B), whether the counted number of ejected sheets counter value (count value), which has been incremented each time a print operation is completed, has reached the chart insertion interval pre-set in the printer 101. If the print control unit 315 determines that the chart insertion interval has been reached, it proceeds with the processing from S1102 onwards. In S1102, the print control unit 315 instructs the print job generation unit 301 to execute an interrupt job for chart insertion. This instruction includes information indicating that it is a job for chart insertion, as well as information about the paper feed stage. The print job generation unit 301 generates a print job based on the instruction from the print control unit 315.

[0075] In S1103, the print job generation unit 301 determines whether a job for chart insertion is executable. If the job for chart insertion is executable, it generates a print job; otherwise, it does not generate a print job. The determination of whether it is executable is made by checking the type of paper in the paper feed stage received from the print control unit 315 to determine whether the job uses paper that has a specific order between sheets, such as tab paper (paper where the order matters). If the paper to be printed in that job has a specific order between sheets, it is determined that the job is not executable, and a warning message, such as the one shown in Figure 13(B), is displayed on the operation unit 206, and the subsequent processing is not executed. On the other hand, if the paper to be printed in that job does not have a specific order between sheets, it is deemed executable and the process proceeds to S1004.

[0076] In S1104, the print job generation unit 301 registers the generated print jobs with the job control unit 303. Then, in S1105, the job control unit 303 determines the execution order of the registered print jobs and starts processing them sequentially. The job control unit 303 then notifies the page control unit 304 of the start of processing. This notification includes the paper feed stage information notified by the print control unit 315 in S1102, and information that it is a job for chart insertion. Then, in S1106, the job control unit 303 instructs the paper feed stage management unit 313 to start processing. In S1107, when the page control unit 304 receives the start of processing from the job control unit 303, it instructs the paper feed control unit 314 to feed paper from the paper feed stage notified by the job control unit 303. As a result, in S1108, the paper feed control unit 314 feeds paper from the instructed paper feed stage according to the paper feed instruction from the page control unit 304. Then, in S1109, the paper feed control unit 314 notifies the page control unit 304 of the paper feed result.

[0077] When the page control unit 304 receives a normal paper feed result from the paper feed control unit 314, in S1110 it instructs the image generation unit 307 to generate and transfer print image data. At this time, the page control unit 304 notifies the image generation unit 307 of the paper feed stage to be fed, the paper size, the paper type, and that it is a print job for chart insertion.

[0078] As a result, in S1111, the image generation unit 307 transfers the print image data for chart insertion and the paper feed stage, paper size, and paper type information notified by the page control unit 304 to the patch merging unit 309. Here, since only adjustment patch images are printed on the chart to be inserted, the print image data generated by the image generation unit 307 is a blank image. Then, in S1112, the patch merging unit 309 merges gradation adjustment mark information (gradation patches) into the margins of the print image data transferred by the image generation unit 307. Then, in S1113, the patch merging unit 309 sends the generated merged image data and the paper feed stage, paper size, and paper type information notified by the image generation unit to the print control unit 315 to instruct printing.

[0079] In this way, at S1114, the print control unit 315 prints the received image data (image data with gradation adjustment mark information combined) onto the paper supplied by the paper feed control unit 314 (patch printing). When printing is complete, at S1115, the print control unit 315 notifies the page control unit 304 and the sensor control unit 312 that printing is complete (paper ejection is complete). This notification of printing completion (paper ejection) includes information such as the paper feed stage, paper size, and paper type. When the page control unit 304 receives the notification of printing completion (paper ejection) from the print control unit 315, at S1116, it notifies the job control unit 303 that processing of one page is complete.

[0080] Meanwhile, when the sensor control unit 312 receives a print completion (paper ejection completion) notification from the print control unit 315, it measures the color of the printed gradation adjustment mark information (gradation patch) in S1117. Next, in S1118, the sensor control unit 312 associates the color measurement result with information such as the paper feed stage, paper size, and paper type notified by the print control unit 315 and notifies the reference information storage unit 311. As a result, in S1119, the reference information storage unit 311 searches and determines whether reference information corresponding to the information notified by the sensor control unit 312 is stored in the RAM 203. If reference information corresponding to the notified information is stored, in S1120, it calculates correction information from the stored reference information and the color measurement result notified by the sensor control unit 312. Then, in S1121, the reference value information storage unit 311 notifies the correction information storage unit 310 of the calculated correction information. Next, in S1122, the correction information storage unit 310 stores the content notified by the reference value information storage unit 311 as correction information.

[0081] On the other hand, if no reference information is saved in S1119, the reference value information storage unit 311 saves the information notified by the sensor control unit 312 (color measurement result, paper feed stage, paper size, paper type, etc.) as reference information in the RAM 203 in S1123.

[0082] Thus, when the job control unit 303 receives confirmation that processing is complete, it notifies the print job generation unit 301 of the completion of the print job in S1124.

[0083] As described above, according to Embodiment 1, when inserting a job to print a grayscale patch during the output of a print job, the paper information of the paper feed stage to be fed is determined, and if the paper is unsuitable for interrupt adjustment, the interrupt adjustment is not performed. Therefore, in order to perform interrupt adjustment, the user does not need to be aware of and set the paper feed stage used for the print job, and the problem of the order of the paper being changed due to the interrupt adjustment job consuming paper that has an order is resolved.

[0084] [Embodiment 2] In Embodiment 1 described above, when executing a print job on the printing device 101, it is determined whether or not to insert an interrupt adjustment chart. However, as explained in Figure 4(B), the interrupt print interval for automatic color adjustment is maintained for each paper type. Therefore, for cases where an insertion chart cannot be created, a warning may be issued when registering the interrupt interval. This example will be described as Embodiment 2. Note that the configuration of the printing system and the hardware configuration of the printing device 101 in Embodiment 2 are the same as those in Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0085] The setting screen displayed on the operation unit 206 of the printing device 101 according to Embodiment 2 is the same as that shown in Figure 4(B) above.

[0086] Figure 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating the processing flow when registering the print interval of the interrupt adjustment chart in the printing device 101 according to Embodiment 2.

[0087] On the screen 420 in Figure 4(B), when the user enters a numerical value for the interrupt print interval 421 and presses the OK button 423, the UI control unit 316 starts checking the registration of the interrupt print interval.

[0088] When the UI control unit 316 detects that the OK button 423 has been pressed, it checks the interrupt print interval specified on that screen in S1201. If it determines that the interrupt print interval is acceptable, it registers the interrupt print interval with the reference information storage unit 311 in S1202.

[0089] Figure 13(A) is a flowchart illustrating the process of registering the interrupt print interval in S1201 in Figure 12.

[0090] First, in S1301, the CPU 201 determines whether the type of paper for which the interrupt print interval is set is a type of paper that has a sequence between sheets, such as tab paper, because the information set via the screen 420 is stored in the reference information storage unit 311 for each paper type. If the paper has a sequence between sheets, the CPU 201 determines that registration is not possible and proceeds to S1302, displaying a warning screen on the operation unit 206, such as the one shown in Figure 13(B), and ending the process. On the other hand, if the CPU 201 determines in S1301 that the paper does not have a sequence between sheets, it ends the process. In this case, in S1202 in Figure 12, the interrupt print interval is registered with the reference information storage unit 311.

[0091] As described above, according to Embodiment 2, when a user sets the interrupt print interval, it is possible to determine whether the target paper type has a sequential order among the paper types, and if it does, interrupt printing will not be performed. This prevents the problem that occurs when a job to print a grayscale patch is inserted during the output of a print job, resulting in the printed paper order being different from what the user originally intended.

[0092] [Embodiment 3] In Embodiment 1 described above, a determination is made as to whether or not to insert an interrupt adjustment chart when executing a print job. However, as explained in Figure 4, the chart insertion type (outputting a test page at regular intervals) is specified by the information processing device 102. Therefore, for cases where chart insertion is not possible, the system may be controlled to issue a warning in response to instructions from the information processing device 102. Note that the configuration of the printing system and the hardware configuration of the printing device 101 in Embodiment 3 are the same as those in Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0093] The printer driver print settings screen for the printer driver used by the information processing device 102 according to Embodiment 3 to configure print settings for the printer device 101 is the same as the screen 400 in Figure 4(A) described above.

[0094] On this screen 400, when the user selects the chart insertion type 410 and presses the OK button 411, the chart insertion check shown in Figure 14(A) begins. Figure 14(A) is a flowchart illustrating the chart insertion check process performed by the information processing device 102 according to Embodiment 3.

[0095] In S1401, it is determined whether the paper type set in the paper feed tab 405 in Figure 4(A) is a type of paper that has an order between sheets, such as tab paper (paper where the order matters). If it is determined that the paper has an order between sheets, it is determined that chart insertion is not possible and the process proceeds to S1402, where a warning screen 1410, such as the one shown in Figure 14(B), is displayed on the display unit of the information processing device 102.

[0096] By performing the process as described above, it is possible to determine whether interrupt adjustment is possible when a user submits a print job to the information processing device. This allows for the same effects as in the previously described embodiment to be obtained.

[0097] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0098] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are attached to make the scope of the invention public. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0099] 101…Printing device, 102…Information processing device, 201…CPU, 203…RAM, 206…Operation unit, 209…Printing unit, 210…Colorimeter unit, 301…Print job generation unit, 303…Job control unit, 304…Page control unit, 309…Patch synthesis unit, 310…Correction information storage unit, 311…Reference information storage unit, 312…Sensor control unit

Claims

1. A printing system including an information processing device and a printing device that receives a print job from the information processing device and executes printing, The information processing device includes: a setting unit for setting the print job to insert a sheet on which a patch for gradation correction is printed; The printing device a control means for controlling, when the print job includes a setting for inserting paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed, not to insert paper on which the patches are printed, based on the type of paper used in the print job; and A printing system comprising:

2. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls so as not to insert the paper on which the patch is printed when the paper type used in the print job is a paper type that has an order among the papers.

3. The printing device further comprises: a patch printing means for printing the patch for gradation correction on the paper by a printing means when the paper on which the patch is printed is inserted; a color measurement means for measuring the color of the patch for gradation correction printed by the patch printing means; a correction unit that corrects image data for printing based on the color measurement result by the color measurement unit; a means for causing the printing means to print based on the image data for printing corrected by the correction means; 2. The printing system according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. The printing device further comprises: a means for setting an interval for inserting the paper on which the patch is printed; counting means for counting the number of sheets printed by the printing means; 4. The printing system according to claim 3, wherein when the count value by said counting means reaches a value corresponding to said set interval, said patch printing means causes said printing means to print said patch for gradation correction on paper.

5. 5. The printing system according to claim 4, wherein the interval is set based on the number of printed sheets of paper.

6. 1. A printing device, comprising: a color measurement means for reading and measuring the color of a sheet of paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed; a control means for controlling, when a print job includes a setting for inserting paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed, not to insert paper on which the patches are printed, based on the type of paper used in the print job; A printing device comprising:

7. 7. The printing device according to claim 6, wherein the control means controls so as not to insert the paper on which the patch is printed when the paper type used for printing has an order among the paper types.

8. The control means further When inserting a sheet on which the patch is printed, the patch for gradation correction is printed on the sheet by a printing means; The printed patch for gradation correction is subjected to color measurement by the color measurement means; correcting the image data for printing based on the color measurement result by the color measurement means; 8. The printing device according to claim 6, wherein the printing means prints based on the corrected image data for printing.

9. The printing device further comprises: a means for setting an interval for inserting the paper on which the patch is printed; a counting means for counting the number of sheets printed by the printing means, 9. The printing device according to claim 8, wherein when the count value by said counting means reaches a value corresponding to said set interval, said printing means prints said patch for gradation correction on paper.

10. 10. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the interval is set based on the number of printed sheets of paper.

11. 1. A printing device, comprising: a color measurement means for reading and measuring the color of a sheet of paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed; a setting means for setting an interval for inserting sheets of paper on which the patches for gradation correction are printed for a print job; a registration means for registering the interval set by the setting means in association with a paper type; a control means for controlling not to insert paper on which the patches for gradation correction are printed, based on the paper type registered by the registration means; A printing device comprising:

12. 12. The printing device according to claim 11, wherein the control unit controls so as not to insert the paper on which the patch is printed when the paper type used in the print job is a paper type that has an order among the papers.

13. 13. The printing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the setting unit sets the interval based on the number of sheets of paper that have been printed.

14. An information processing apparatus that inputs a print job to a printing apparatus and causes the printing apparatus to print, a setting means for setting the print job so that patches for gradation correction are printed; a control means for controlling not to insert a sheet of paper on which the patches for gradation correction are printed, when the setting by the setting means includes a setting to insert a sheet of paper on which the patches for gradation correction are printed; An information processing device comprising:

15. 15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the control unit determines that the paper on which the patch is printed cannot be inserted when the paper type used in the print job is a paper type that has an order among the paper types.

16. A control method for controlling a printing device, comprising: a color measurement step of reading and measuring the color of paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed; a control step of, when a print job includes a setting for inserting paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed, controlling the paper on which the patches are printed not to be inserted based on the type of paper used in the print job; A control method comprising:

17. A control method for controlling a printing device, comprising: a color measurement step of reading and measuring the color of paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed; a setting step of setting an interval for inserting sheets of paper on which the patches for gradation correction are printed for a print job; a registration step of registering the interval set in the setting step in association with a paper type; a step of controlling so as not to insert paper on which the patches for gradation correction are printed, based on the paper type registered in the registration step; A control method comprising:

18. A control method for controlling an information processing apparatus that inputs a print job to a printing apparatus and causes the printing apparatus to print, comprising: a setting step of setting the print job so that patches for gradation correction are printed; a control step of controlling not to insert paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed, when the setting step includes a setting to insert paper on which patches for gradation correction are printed; A control method comprising:

19. A program for causing a computer to execute all of the steps of the control method according to any one of claims 16 to 18.

Images