Color measurement method and color measurement system

Abstract

To enhance usability of colorimetric work.SOLUTION: A colorimetric method includes: a step in which a server generates a colorimetric job including information on an execution instruction of colorimetry and a measurement condition; a step in which the server stores the colorimetric job; a step in which the server transmits the colorimetric job; a step in which a colorimetric device receives the colorimetric job; and a step in which, when the colorimetric job is selected by the colorimetric device, the colorimetric device performs colorimetry based on the colorimetric job.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a color measurement method and a color measurement system. [Background technology]

[0002] In printing devices that perform printing using inkjet or electrophotography, color matching is generally performed to make the colors of the printed image closer to the desired colors. This color matching involves color measurement, such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0003] The color measurement method described in Patent Document 1 uses a spectral colorimeter to measure the color of a proofreading chart or the like printed on paper by a printing press. This color measurement is performed based on the operation of the spectral colorimeter by a user. A user terminal device is communicably connected to this spectral colorimeter. A cloud server is communicably connected to this user terminal. The user terminal device or the cloud server manages data obtained by color measurement using the spectral colorimeter. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-71083 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The color measurement method described in Patent Document 1 has limited flexibility for users in choosing the time and location for color measurement, and requires a certain level of familiarity with the tasks required for color measurement. Thus, conventional color measurement methods have the problem of lacking usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the color measurement method of the present invention includes a server generating a color measurement job including instructions for performing color measurement and information regarding measurement conditions, the server storing the color measurement job, the server transmitting the color measurement job, a colorimeter receiving the color measurement job, and, when the color measurement job is selected by the colorimeter, the colorimeter performing color measurement based on the color measurement job.

[0007] One aspect of the colorimetry system of the present invention includes a server and a colorimeter, wherein the server includes a generation unit that generates a colorimetry job including instructions for performing colorimetry and information regarding measurement conditions, a memory unit that stores the colorimetry job, and a first communication unit that transmits the colorimetry job, and the colorimeter includes a second communication unit that receives the colorimetry job and a colorimetry unit that performs colorimetry based on the colorimetry job when the colorimetry job is selected. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a color measurement system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a color measurement method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a color measurement job. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on the server. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on a colorimeter. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a color measurement system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a color measurement method according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a color measurement system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a color measurement system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a color measurement method according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a color measurement system according to Modification 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a color measurement system according to Modification 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the dimensions and scale of each part in the drawings may differ from the actual dimensions and are shown schematically to facilitate understanding. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description to the effect that the present invention is limited thereto.

[0010] 1. First embodiment 1-1.Color measurement system 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a color measurement system 10 according to the first embodiment. The color measurement system 10 uses a colorimeter 200 to perform color measurement based on a color measurement job DJ generated by a server 100. In this embodiment, the color measurement system 10 performs color adjustment on the server 100 for specific colors, such as spot colors, of the print data DG based on the results of the color measurement.

[0011] The color measurement system 10 includes a server 100, a colorimeter 200, and a printing device 300. The server 100 is communicatively connected to each of the colorimeter 200 and the printing device 300. This connection may be wireless or wired, or may involve a network such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0012] The server 100 is a computer that generates a colorimetry job DJ. Specifically, the server 100 has a function of accepting input of information necessary for generating the colorimetry job DJ, a function of generating the colorimetry job DJ based on the information, a function of storing the colorimetry job DJ, and a function of transmitting the colorimetry job DJ to the colorimeter 200.

[0013] In this embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned functions, the server 100 has the function of performing color adjustment of the print data DG based on the color measurement results of the colorimeter 200, and the function of causing the printing device 300 to perform printing based on the print data DG after the color adjustment.

[0014] 1, the server 100 includes a first processing device 110, a first storage device 120 which is an example of a "storage unit," an input device 130, a first display device 140, and a first communication device 150 which is an example of a "first communication unit." Each unit of the server 100 will be described below in order.

[0015] The first processing device 110 is a device that has the function of controlling each unit of the server 100 and the function of processing various types of data. The first processing device 110 is configured to include a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The first processing device 110 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Some or all of the functions of the first processing device 110 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0016] The first storage device 120 is a device that stores various programs executed by the first processing device 110 and various data processed by the first processing device 110. The first storage device 120 includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the first storage device 120 may be provided in an external storage device or terminal device of the server 100.

[0017] In this embodiment, a program PG, a color measurement job DJ, and print data DG are stored in the first storage device 120. The program PG is a program that causes the server 100 to execute a color measurement method, which will be described later.

[0018] The colorimetry job DJ is work information related to colorimetry using the colorimeter 200, and includes instructions to perform the colorimetry and information about the measurement conditions. Here, the colorimetry job DJ may include work information related to work other than colorimetry, such as printing, that accompanies the colorimetry work, in addition to instructions to perform the colorimetry and information about the measurement conditions. The colorimetry job DJ is generated by a generation unit 121, which will be described later. The colorimetry job DJ will be described in detail later.

[0019] The print data DG is image data to be printed by the printing device 300. The print data DG is created, for example, by image editing software. Specifically, the print data DG is, for example, a file format using a page description language such as PostScript, PDF (Portable Document Format), or XPS (XML Paper Specification), or various vector format data, or raster format data. The print data DG may be image data created by the server 100, or may be image data created outside the server 100. Note that the print data DG may be the data itself created by image editing software or the like, or may be data that has been processed by rasterization or the like. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content of the print data DG is not particularly limited and may be arbitrary.

[0020] The input device 130 is a device that accepts operations from an operator of the server 100. In this embodiment, information required for generating a colorimetry job DJ is input to the server 100 by the operator of the server 100 through operation of the input device 130. The input device 130 is configured to include, for example, a touchpad, a touch panel, or a pointing device such as a mouse. Here, if the input device 130 is configured to include a touch panel, it may also serve as the first display device 140.

[0021] The first display device 140 is a device that performs display under the control of the first processing device 110. Specifically, the first display device 140 displays, for example, an image that assists in inputting information necessary for generating the colorimetry job DJ, or an image that indicates the progress of colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ. The first display device 140 is configured with various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel. The first display device 140 may be provided outside the server 100.

[0022] The first communication device 150 is a communication circuit communicatively connected to each of the colorimeter 200 and the printing device 300. The first communication device 150 includes interfaces such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) and a Local Area Network (LAN). The first communication device 150 may be wirelessly connected to the colorimeter 200 or the printing device 300 via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or the like, or may be connected to the colorimeter 200 or the printing device 300 via a Local Area Network (LAN) or the Internet. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are both registered trademarks.

[0023] In the above-described server 100, the first processing device 110 reads and executes the program PG from the first storage device 120. By this execution, the first processing device 110 functions as a generation unit 121 and a color adjustment unit 122.

[0024] The generation unit 121 receives information necessary for generating the colorimetry job DJ based on user operation of the input device 130, and then generates the colorimetry job DJ based on the information. The generation unit 121 also stores the generated colorimetry job DJ in the first storage device 120, and then causes the first communication device 150 to execute a process of transmitting the colorimetry job DJ. The color adjustment unit 122 performs color adjustment of the print data DG based on the colorimetry results of the colorimeter 200. The color adjustment unit 122 also causes the printing device 300 to execute a process of printing based on the color-adjusted print data DG.

[0025] The colorimeter 200 is a device such as a spectrophotometer, camera, or scanner that reads an object to be measured. By reading the object to be measured, colorimetric information DM is generated. In this embodiment, the object is the print surface of a predetermined print medium on which a predetermined color of print data DG is printed. Here, printing on the object may be performed by the printing device 300, or by a printer other than the printing device 300. When printing on the object is performed by a printer other than the printing device 300, the object may be, for example, an existing object such as an exterior sign.

[0026] 1, the colorimeter 200 includes a second processing device 210, a second storage device 220, a colorimeter mechanism 230 which is an example of a "colorimeter unit," a second display device 240, and a second communication device 250 which is an example of a "second communication unit." Each unit of the colorimeter 200 will be described below in order.

[0027] The second processing device 210 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the colorimeter 200 and the function of processing various types of data. The second processing device 210 is configured to include a processor such as a CPU. The second processing device 210 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the second processing device 210 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA.

[0028] The second storage device 220 is a device that stores various programs executed by the second processing device 210 and various data processed by the second processing device 210. The second storage device 220 is configured to include, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the second storage device 220 may be provided in an external storage device or terminal device of the colorimeter 200.

[0029] The second storage device 220 stores colorimetry information DM. As described above, the colorimetry information DM is information obtained as a result of colorimetry by the colorimetry mechanism 230. The second storage device 220 also temporarily stores the colorimetry job DJ from the server 100 described above.

[0030] The color measurement mechanism 230 is an assembly having an imaging optical system and an imaging element. The imaging optical system is an optical system including at least one imaging lens, and may include various optical elements such as a prism, or may include a zoom lens or a focus lens. The imaging element is, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary MOS) image sensor. In addition to the imaging optical system and the imaging element, the color measurement mechanism 230 may also have a movement mechanism that changes the relative positional relationship between the imaging range and the object to be imaged, as necessary.

[0031] The colorimetry mechanism 230 may have a spectroscopic function. In this case, for example, a diffraction grating or a wavelength-variable filter may be provided in the imaging optical system. The image captured by the colorimetry mechanism 230 may be full-color or monochromatic. When the captured image is full-color, for example, imaging information represented by tristimulus values in the XYZ color system for each pixel of the captured image is obtained as the result of colorimetry by the colorimetry device 200. When the captured image is monochromatic, for example, imaging information represented by luminance values for each pixel of the captured image is obtained as the result of colorimetry by the colorimetry device 200. However, it is preferable that the captured image be full-color.

[0032] The second display device 240 is a device that performs display under the control of the second processing device 210. Specifically, the second display device 240 displays, for example, an image showing work instructions or work contents of color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ. The second display device 240 is configured with various display panels, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. Note that the second display device 240 may be provided outside the colorimeter 200.

[0033] The second communication device 250 is a communication circuit communicatively connected to the server 100. The second communication device 250 includes interfaces such as a USB and a LAN. The second communication device 250 may be wirelessly connected to the server 100 via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or the like, or may be connected to the server 100 via a LAN, the Internet, or the like.

[0034] Here, if necessary, in order to ensure communication security when connecting with the first communication device 150 of the server 100, the second communication device 250 may, for example, input an ID and password for communication with the server 100 from the colorimeter 200 to the server 100, and then input the one-time password displayed on the server 100 into the colorimeter 200.

[0035] The printing device 300 shown in FIG. 1 is a device that prints on a print medium under the control of the server 100. More specifically, the printing device 300 prints an image on the print medium based on print data DG input from the server 100. The print medium is not particularly limited and may be, for example, various types of paper, cloth, or film. The printing method of the printing device 300 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, an inkjet method or an electrophotographic method. Although not shown, the printing device 300 has, for example, an inkjet or electrophotographic printer engine, a transport mechanism that transports the print medium in a predetermined direction, and a control circuit that controls the driving of these based on information from the server 100, etc.

[0036] The printing device 300 described above performs printing using color materials such as inks or toners of multiple colors. The multiple colors include process colors such as cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. The multiple colors may also include special colors such as fluorescent colors or metallic colors. The number of colors of the color materials is not particularly limited and can be any number.

[0037] 1-3. Color measurement method FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a color measurement method according to the first embodiment. The color measurement method is performed using the color measurement system 10 described above. In the color measurement system 10, first, as shown in FIG. 2, in step S101, the server 100 performs settings for color measurement. This setting is performed by receiving information required for generating a color measurement job DJ in the generation unit 121. The information is input to the server 100 based on user operation of the input device 130, etc. At this time, for example, an image for a GUI (Graphical User Interface) to assist the input is displayed on the first display device 140.

[0038] In this embodiment, the information required to generate the colorimetry job DJ includes information about the colorimetry settings of the colorimeter 200, information about the object of colorimetry, information about the print data DG, and information about the range of color adjustment for the print data DG. Here, the information about the colorimetry settings of the colorimeter 200 is, for example, information about settings such as the M factor, light source, number of objects of colorimetry, and number of times colorimetry is repeated. The information about the object of colorimetry is, for example, information about the type of print medium. In this embodiment, once the input of the print data DG is complete, the generation unit 121 generates a job ID as an identifier for identifying the colorimetry job DJ. Furthermore, the range of color adjustment for the print data DG is set, for example, by displaying an image based on the print data DG on the first display device 140 and then specifying a range and color within the image.

[0039] Next, in step S102, the server 100 generates a colorimetry job DJ. This generation is performed by the generation unit 121 based on the information set in the above-mentioned step S101. Here, the colorimetry job DJ includes information about the above-mentioned job ID so that it can be distinguished from other colorimetry jobs DJ, and is generated for each job ID. In this embodiment, the colorimetry job DJ includes information about the job ID as well as information about the color ID as an identifier for identifying the color that is the target of color adjustment for the print data DG. After the colorimetry job DJ is generated, the first display device 140 displays, for example, an image indicating the progress of colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ. A specific example of the colorimetry job DJ will be described later with reference to FIG. 3. A specific example of the image displayed on the first display device 140 after the colorimetry job DJ is generated will be described later with reference to FIG. 4.

[0040] Then, in step S103, the server 100 stores the color measurement job DJ in the first storage device 120. After that, in step S104, the server 100 transmits the color measurement job DJ from the first communication device 150.

[0041] Next, in step S105, the colorimeter 200 receives the colorimetric job DJ via the second communication device 25. At this time, an image showing work instructions or work content for colorimetric measurement based on the colorimetric job DJ is displayed on the second display device 240. A specific example of this image will be described later with reference to FIG. 5.

[0042] Thereafter, in step S106, the colorimeter 200 selects a colorimeter job DJ. This selection is made, for example, by having an image for selecting the colorimeter job DJ displayed on the second display device 240 and then having the operator of the colorimeter 200 operate an input device (not shown) of the colorimeter 200. Alternatively, the selection is made by reading a two-dimensional code or the like that includes information about the job ID printed on the chart. When the colorimeter 200 selects the colorimeter job DJ in this way, the colorimeter 200's colorimeter settings are automatically changed to settings based on the colorimeter job DJ.

[0043] Next, in step S107, the colorimeter 200 performs colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ. At this time, the colorimeter 200 performs colorimetry on the object based on the colorimetry job DJ using the colorimetry settings based on the colorimetry job DJ. As a result of this colorimetry, colorimetry information DM is obtained. The colorimetry information DM is added with the color ID described above. This allows the colorimetry information DM to be associated with the colorimetry job DJ.

[0044] Then, in step S108, the colorimeter 200 transmits the colorimetric information DM from the second communication device 250. The colorimetric information DM transmitted from the colorimeter 200 is received by the first communication device 150 of the server 100. In the server 100, the colorimetric information DM is stored in the first storage device 120 as necessary.

[0045] Next, in step S109, the server 100 performs color adjustment of the print data DG based on the colorimetric information DM. This color adjustment is performed by the color adjustment unit 122 calculating colorimetric values based on the colorimetric information DM and then replacing predetermined colors of the print data DG with the calculated colorimetric values.

[0046] Thereafter, in step S110, the server 100 updates status information indicating the progress of colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ. Specifically, the server 100 changes the progress display shown in FIG. 4, which will be described later, by, for example, deleting an executed colorimetry job DJ or adding information indicating that the job has been executed to the executed colorimetry job DJ. Note that step S110 may be executed between steps S108 and S109 described above. Also, step S110 may be executed as needed and may be omitted.

[0047] Next, in step S111, the server 100 transmits an instruction to print an image based on the color-adjusted print data DG to the printing device 300. This transmission is performed by the color adjustment unit 122 causing the first communication device 150 to execute a process for transmitting the print instruction.

[0048] Next, in step S112, the printing device 300 prints an image based on the color-adjusted print data DG. After that, in step S113, the printing device 300 sends a completion notification to the server 100 indicating that the printing has been completed.

[0049] As described above, color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ and color adjustment of the print data DG are performed. A specific example of the color measurement job DJ and an example of display to the operator of the server 100 and the colorimeter 200 will be described below.

[0050] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a colorimetry job DJ generated in step S102 described above. In FIG. 3, two colorimetry jobs DJ are exemplified: colorimetry job DJ_1 and colorimetry job DJ_2. Each of colorimetry job DJ_1 and colorimetry job DJ_2 includes information A indicating a job ID, information B indicating print data DG, information C indicating a color ID, and information D indicating the colorimetry settings of the colorimeter 200. Note that the format of the colorimetry job DJ is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 3.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the server 100 after the above-mentioned step S102. FIG. 4 illustrates an image G1 displayed on the first display device 140 after generating the colorimetry jobs DJ_1 and DJ_2 shown in FIG. 3. In the example shown in FIG. 4, image G1 includes an image Ga indicating the name of the colorimetry job DJ and an image Gb indicating the progress of colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ. This image G1 presents information about the instructed colorimetry job DJ and the progress of colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ to the operator of the server 100. Note that the display content of image G1 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 4, as long as it can present necessary information to the operator of the server 100.

[0052] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the display on the colorimeter 200 in step S105 described above. FIG. 5 illustrates an image G2 displayed on the second display device 240 of the colorimeter 200 that has received colorimeter job DJ_1 of colorimeter job DJ_1 and colorimeter job DJ_2 shown in FIG. 3 described above. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the name of the colorimeter job DJ and the color to be adjusted are displayed in image G2. This display provides the operator of the colorimeter 200 with information necessary for color measurement based on the colorimeter job DJ. Note that the display content of image G2 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5, as long as it can present the necessary information to the operator of the colorimeter 200.

[0053] As described above, the colorimetry system 10 executes a colorimetry method including the above-described steps S102, S103, S104, S105, and S107. As described above, in step S102, the server 100 generates a colorimetry job DJ including instructions to perform colorimetry and information related to measurement conditions. In step S103, the server 100 stores the colorimetry job DJ. In step S104, the server 100 transmits the colorimetry job DJ. In step S105, the colorimetry device 200 receives the colorimetry job DJ. In step S107, when the colorimetry job DJ is selected by the colorimetry device 200, the colorimetry device 200 executes colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ.

[0054] As described above, the colorimetry system 10 includes a server 100 and at least one colorimeter 200. The server 100 includes a generation unit 121 that generates a colorimetry job DJ, a first storage device 120 that is an example of a "storage unit" that stores the colorimetry job DJ, and a first communication device 150 that is an example of a "first communication unit" that transmits the colorimetry job DJ. Meanwhile, the at least one colorimeter 200 includes a second communication device 250 that is an example of a "second communication unit" that receives the colorimetry job DJ, and a colorimetry mechanism 230 that is an example of a "colorimetry unit" that performs colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ when the colorimetry job DJ is selected.

[0055] In the colorimetry system 10 described above, the colorimetry job DJ is sent from the server 100 to the colorimeter 200. This allows the operator of the server 100 to be responsible for issuing instructions to perform colorimetry and setting the measurement conditions, while the operator of the colorimeter 200 is responsible for the actual colorimetry measurement. This division of labor allows for greater flexibility in the amount of time a user spends on colorimetry, and each operator does not need to be proficient in all the tasks required for colorimetry. For example, the operator of the server 100 does not need to be proficient in the actual measurement tasks of the colorimeter 200, and the operator of the colorimeter 200 does not need to be proficient in the colorimetry setup tasks. Furthermore, colorimetry can be performed even if the colorimeter 200 is installed in a location different from the server 100. This also allows for greater flexibility in the user's work location for colorimetry. As can be seen from the above, the colorimetry system 10 offers superior usability compared to conventional colorimetry methods that require proficiency in colorimetry tasks.

[0056] The server 100 has a first display device 140 that displays the contents of the colorimetry job DJ. Therefore, the contents of the colorimetry job DJ can be presented to the operator of the server 100 by displaying them on the first display device 140. Furthermore, the colorimeter 200 has a second display device 240 that displays the contents of the colorimetry job DJ. Therefore, the contents of the colorimetry job DJ can be presented to the operator of the colorimeter 200 by displaying them on the second display device 240.

[0057] The server 100 includes a color adjustment unit 122 that performs color adjustment of the print data DG based on the results of color measurement performed based on the color measurement job DJ. Therefore, the color measurement system 10 can be provided as a color adjustment system.

[0058] 2. Second embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiment, for elements whose actions and functions are similar to those of the first embodiment, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be used, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted as appropriate.

[0059] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a colorimetry system 10A according to the second embodiment. The colorimetry system 10A executes colorimetry based on a colorimetry job DJ generated by the server 100 using a colorimeter 200, and creates a profile DP based on the results of the colorimetry. The colorimetry system 10A is similar to the colorimetry system 10 of the first embodiment described above, except that it uses a program PGA instead of a program PG.

[0060] The program PGA is executed by the first processing device 110. By this execution, the first processing device 110 functions as a generation unit 121 and a profile creation unit 123. The profile creation unit 123 creates a profile DP based on the results of colorimetry by the colorimeter 200. The profile creation unit 123 also causes the printing device 300 to execute processing to print an image based on the print data DG before colorimetry by the colorimeter 200. The printed material obtained by this printing is the object to be measured by the colorimeter 200. The print data DG in this embodiment is, for example, image data of a colorimetry chart. Here, it is preferable that the print data DG includes data of an identification image for identifying the type of colorimetry chart. The identification image is, for example, a QR code. Note that QR code is a registered trademark.

[0061] The profile DP is a profile such as an input profile, and includes a conversion table that converts color values in one color space as input values into color values in another color space as output values. The format of the profile DP is not particularly limited, but may conform to the specifications of the ICC (International Color Consortium), for example. The profile DP is stored in the first storage device 120 together with the program PGA, colorimetry job DJ, and print data DG.

[0062] 7 is a diagram showing a color measurement method according to the second embodiment. The color measurement method is performed using the color measurement system 10A described above. In the color measurement system 10A, first, as shown in FIG. 7, in step S201, the server 100 performs settings for color measurement. This setting is performed in the same manner as step S101 in the first embodiment described above.

[0063] However, in this embodiment, the information necessary to generate the colorimetry job DJ includes information about the colorimetry settings of the colorimeter 200, information about the settings of the profile DP, and information about the type of colorimetry chart. Here, the information about the settings of the profile DP is a provisional profile that includes, for example, information such as the type of color space used in the profile DP and information about the type of print medium that is the target of colorimetry. In this embodiment, when input of information about the settings of the profile DP begins, the generation unit 121 generates a job ID as an identifier for identifying the colorimetry job DJ.

[0064] Next, in step S202, the server 100 generates a colorimetry job DJ. Similar to step S102 in the first embodiment, this generation is performed by the generation unit 121 based on the information set in step S201. However, in this embodiment, the colorimetry job DJ includes information such as a chart name for identifying the colorimetry chart used for colorimetry, instead of information related to the color ID. Furthermore, the colorimetry job DJ in this embodiment includes a print job, which is information related to the process of causing the printing device 300 to print the colorimetry chart.

[0065] Then, in step S203, the server 100 stores the colorimetry job DJ in the first storage device 120. Next, in step S204, the server 100 transmits a print instruction based on the print job to the printing device 300. This transmission is performed by the profile creation unit 123 causing the first communication device 150 to execute processing for transmitting the print instruction.

[0066] Next, in step S205, the printing device 300 executes printing based on the print job described above, i.e., printing of the color measurement chart based on the print data DG. After that, in step S206, the printing device 300 sends a completion notification to the server 100 indicating that the printing has been completed.

[0067] Thereafter, in step S207, the server 100 updates status information indicating the progress of color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ. Specifically, the server 100 changes the content of the status displayed on the first display device 140, for example, by adding information indicating that printing of a color measurement chart used for color measurement has been completed to the completed color measurement job DJ. Note that step S207 may be performed as needed and may be omitted.

[0068] Next, in step S208, the server 100 transmits the color measurement job DJ. Then, in step S209, the colorimeter 200 receives the color measurement job DJ.

[0069] Thereafter, in step S210, the colorimeter 200 selects a colorimetric job DJ, similar to step S106 in the first embodiment described above. Next, in step S211, the colorimeter 200 performs colorimetric measurement based on the colorimetric job DJ, similar to step S107 in the first embodiment described above. However, the printed material obtained in step S205 described above is used as the object of colorimetric measurement.

[0070] Thereafter, in step S212, the colorimeter 200 transmits the colorimetric information DM. Next, in step S213, the server 100 creates a profile DP based on the colorimetric information DM. This creation is performed by the profile creation unit 123 using a known method.

[0071] According to the second embodiment described above, colorimetry can be performed with superior usability compared to the prior art. In this embodiment, in addition to colorimetry based on a colorimetry job DJ, a profile DP is created.

[0072] As described above, the server 100 includes a profile creation unit 123 that creates a profile DP based on the results of colorimetry performed based on the colorimetry job DJA. Therefore, the colorimetry system 10A can be provided as a profile creation system.

[0073] As described above, the colorimetry job DJ includes an identifier of the colorimetry job DJ, information about the colorimetry conditions and the colorimetry chart, so that the colorimetry device 200 can perform colorimetry suitable for creating the profile DP.

[0074] 3. Third embodiment A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiments, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted where appropriate.

[0075] 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a color measurement system 10B according to the third embodiment. The color measurement system 10B is similar to the color measurement system 10 of the first embodiment described above, except that a terminal device 400 is added.

[0076] The terminal device 400 is a mobile device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal that has a communication function and a display function. The terminal device 400 has a third communication device 410, which is an example of a “third communication unit”, and a display device 420.

[0077] The third communication device 410 is a communication circuit communicatively connected to each of the server 100 and the colorimeter 200. In this embodiment, the third communication device 410 functions as a relay that relays communication between the server 100 and the colorimeter 200. The third communication device 410 is wirelessly connected to each of the server 100 and the colorimeter 200 via, for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or the like.

[0078] The display device 420 is configured with various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel, etc. The display device 420, like the second display device 240, displays an image showing work instructions or work contents of color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ.

[0079] According to the third embodiment described above, color measurement can be performed with superior usability compared to conventional methods. The color measurement system 10 of this embodiment includes the terminal device 400, as described above. The terminal device 400 includes the third communication device 410, which is an example of a "third communication unit" that communicates with the second communication device 250. Therefore, even if the second communication device 250 is configured to be unable to communicate directly with the first communication device 150, if the third communication device 410 can communicate with the first communication device 150, communication between the first communication device 150 and the second communication device 250 can be performed via the third communication device 410. Furthermore, even if the colorimeter 200 does not have a display function, if the terminal device 400 has a display function, the contents of the color measurement job DJ can be displayed on the terminal device 400.

[0080] In this embodiment, the second communication device 250 receives the color measurement job DJ from the first communication device 150 via the third communication device 410. Therefore, even if the second communication device 250 is configured not to be able to communicate directly with the first communication device 150, the second communication device 250 can receive the color measurement job DJ.

[0081] The terminal device 400 displays the contents of the colorimetry job DJ. Therefore, even if the colorimeter 200 does not have a display function, the contents of the colorimetry job DJ can be presented to the operator of the colorimeter 200 by displaying them on the terminal device 400.

[0082] 4. Fourth embodiment The fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiments, elements whose actions and functions are similar to those of the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted where appropriate.

[0083] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a colorimetry system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. The colorimetry system 10C is similar to the colorimetry system 10 of the first embodiment described above, except that a plurality of colorimetry devices 200 and a plurality of printing devices 300 are communicably connected to the server 100. FIG. 9 illustrates a configuration in which M colorimetry devices 200_1 to 200_M and N printing devices 300_1 to 300_N are connected to the server 100 via a network NW. Here, each of the colorimetry devices 200_1 to 200_M is a colorimetry device 200. Each of the printing devices 300_1 to 300_N is a printing device 300. The network NW is a network such as a LAN or the Internet. Note that M and N are integers equal to or greater than 2.

[0084] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a color measurement method according to the fourth embodiment. The color measurement method is performed using the color measurement system 10C described above. For ease of explanation, FIG. 10 representatively illustrates two colorimeters 200 out of the M colorimeters 201 to 200_M and one printing device 300 out of the N printing devices 300_1 to 300_N. In the color measurement system 10C, as shown in FIG. 10, steps S101 to S105 are executed, similarly to the first embodiment described above.

[0085] However, in step S104, the server 100 transmits the colorimetry job DJ to each of the M colorimetry devices 201 to 200_M. Then, in step S105, each of the M colorimetry devices 201 to 200_M receives the colorimetry job DJ.

[0086] Thereafter, in step S106, one of the M colorimeters 201 to 200_M selects a colorimeter job DJ. In step S114, the one colorimeter 200 transmits selection information DS indicating the selection to the server 100. The server 100, having received the selection information DS, transmits a job deletion instruction CD, which is an example of a "command" for deleting the colorimeter job DJ, to the M colorimeters 201 to 200_M except for the colorimeter 200 that transmitted the selection information DS. Note that this job deletion instruction CD may be issued after step S107, in which case the colorimeter information DM may also serve as the job deletion instruction CD.

[0087] Next, in step S107, the colorimeter 200 that selected the colorimeter job DJ performs colorimeter measurement based on the colorimeter job DJ. After that, in step S108, the colorimeter 200 that selected the colorimeter job DJ transmits colorimeter information DM.

[0088] Next, steps S109 to S113 are executed in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above. As described above, color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ and color adjustment of the print data DG are performed.

[0089] The fourth embodiment described above also enables colorimetry with superior usability compared to conventional systems. As described above, the colorimetry system 10C of this embodiment includes multiple colorimetry devices 200, and the first communication device 150 transmits a colorimetry job DJ to each of the multiple colorimetry devices 200. Therefore, colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ can be performed by any one of the multiple colorimetry devices 200. This has the advantage of making it easier to shorten the time required from generating the colorimetry job DJ to performing colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ, compared to a configuration with a single colorimetry device 200. Furthermore, it is also possible to selectively use a colorimetry device 200 suitable for colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ from the multiple colorimetry devices 200. This also has the advantage of making it easier to improve the quality of colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ.

[0090] Furthermore, when the colorimetric mechanism 230 executes colorimetry based on the colorimetry job DJ, the second communication device 250 transmits selection information DS, which is an example of "colorimetry execution information" indicating that the colorimetry job DJ is scheduled to be executed or has already been executed, to the first communication device 150. In response to this, when the first communication device 150 receives the selection information DS, it transmits a job deletion instruction CD, which is an example of a "command" for deleting the colorimetry job DJ, to any of the multiple colorimetry devices 200 that have not transmitted the selection information DS. This prevents the multiple colorimetry devices 200 from redundantly executing an executed colorimetry job DJ.

[0091] 5. Variations Each of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments can be modified in various ways. Specific modified embodiments that can be applied to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are exemplified below. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined within the scope of not contradicting each other.

[0092] 5-1. Variation 1 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a color measurement system 10D according to Modification 1. The color measurement system 10D is similar to the color measurement system 10 of the above-described first embodiment, except that a terminal device 500 is added.

[0093] The terminal device 500 is a computer having a communication function and a display function. In the example shown in Fig. 11, the terminal device 500 is communicably connected to the server 100. In such a colorimetry system 10D, the server 100 may be a cloud server. Therefore, by operating the terminal device 500, settings for colorimetry can be made on the server 100. In this case, a display used for the settings can be displayed on the terminal device 500.

[0094] 5-2. Variation 2 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a color measurement system 10E according to Modification 2. The color measurement system 10E is similar to the color measurement system 10 of the above-described first embodiment, except that a terminal device 500 is added.

[0095] 12, the server 100 and the printing device 300 are communicably connected via a terminal device 500. In the colorimetry system 10E configured in this way, as in the above-described first modification, it is possible to perform colorimetry settings on the server 100 by operating the terminal device 500, and to display on the terminal device 500 the display used for the settings.

[0096] 5-3. Variation 3 In the above-described embodiment, a configuration is exemplified in which not only color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ is performed, but also color adjustment or profile creation is performed using the results of the color measurement, but this configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to perform only color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ without performing color adjustment or profile creation.

[0097] 5-4. Variation 4 In each embodiment except for the second embodiment described above, a configuration is exemplified in which color adjustment is performed using the results of color measurement based on the color measurement job DJ, but this configuration is not limited to this, and instead of color adjustment, a profile similar to that of the second embodiment may be created. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 10...colorimetry system, 10A...colorimetry system, 10B...colorimetry system, 10C...colorimetry system, 10D...colorimetry system, 10E...colorimetry system, 100...server, 110...first processing device, 120...first storage device, 121...generation unit, 122...color adjustment unit, 123...profile creation unit, 130...input device, 140...first display device, 150...first communication device, 200...colorimetry device, 200_1 to 200_M...colorimetry device, 20 1...colorimeter, 210...second processing device, 220...second storage device, 230...colorimeter mechanism, 240...second display device, 250...second communication device, 300...printing device, 300_1 to 300_N...printing devices, 400...terminal device, 410...third communication device, 420...display device, 500...terminal device, A...information, B...information, C...information, CD...job deletion instruction, D...information, DG...print data, DJ...colorimeter job, DJA...colorimeter job, DJ _1...Colorimetry job, DJ_2...Colorimetry job, DM...Colorimetry information, DP...Profile, DS...Selection information, G1...Image, G2...Image, Ga...Image, Gb...Image, NW...Network, PG...Program, PGA...Program, S101...Step, S102...Step, S103...Step, S104...Step, S105...Step, S106...Step, S107...Step, S108...Step, S109... step, S110...step, S111...step, S112...step, S113...step, S114...step, S201...step, S202...step, S203...step, S204...step, S205...step, S206...step, S207...step, S208...step, S209...step, S210...step, S211...step, S212...step, S213...step.

Claims

1. A server generates a color measurement job and a print job including instructions for performing color measurement and information regarding measurement conditions; the server sending the print job to a printing device; the server transmitting the color measurement job to a colorimeter; The printing device prints a color measurement chart and an identification image on a medium based on the print job received from the server; reading the identification image; changing the color measurement settings of the colorimeter to color measurement settings based on the result of reading the identification image and the color measurement job received by the colorimeter from the server; and executing color measurement of the color measurement chart with the color measurement device using the changed color measurement setting. Color measurement method.

2. A server, a printing device, and a colorimeter are included. The server a generating unit that generates a colorimetry job and a print job including an instruction to perform colorimetry and information about measurement conditions; a first communication unit that transmits the print job to the printing device and the color measurement job to the colorimeter; the printing device prints a color measurement chart and an identification image on a medium based on the print job received from the server; a reading unit reading the identification image; The colorimeter is a second communication unit that receives the color measurement job; a control unit that changes the color measurement settings of the colorimeter to color measurement settings based on the result of the reading unit reading the identification image and the color measurement job received by the colorimeter from the server; a color measurement unit that performs color measurement of the color measurement chart using the changed color measurement settings, Color measurement system.

3. the first communication unit transmits the color measurement job to each of the plurality of color measurement devices; The color measurement system of claim 2 .

4. the second communication unit, when the colorimetric unit executes colorimetric measurement based on the colorimetric job, transmits colorimetric execution information indicating a schedule for execution or completion of execution of the colorimetric job to the first communication unit; when the first communication unit receives the color measurement execution information, it transmits a command to delete the color measurement job to the color measurement devices that have not transmitted the color measurement execution information among the plurality of color measurement devices. The color measurement system of claim 3 .

5. The color measurement job includes an identifier of the color measurement job, color measurement conditions, and information about a color measurement chart. The color measurement system according to claim 2 .

6. a terminal device having a third communication unit that communicates with the second communication unit; The color measurement system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. the second communication unit receives the color measurement job from the first communication unit via the third communication unit; The color measurement system of claim 6 .

8. the terminal device displays the content of the color measurement job. The color measurement system according to claim 6 or 7.

9. the server has a first display device that displays the content of the color measurement job; the colorimeter has a second display device that displays the content of the colorimetric job; The color measurement system according to any one of claims 2 to 8.

10. the server has a color adjustment unit that performs color adjustment of image data based on a result of color measurement performed based on the color measurement job; The color measurement system according to any one of claims 2 to 9.

11. the server has a profile creation unit that creates a profile based on a result of color measurement performed based on the color measurement job; The color measurement system according to any one of claims 2 to 9.

12. A server and a colorimeter are included. The server a generation unit that generates a colorimetry job including an instruction to perform colorimetry and information about measurement conditions; a storage unit that stores the color measurement job; a first communication unit that transmits the color measurement job; The colorimeter is a second communication unit that receives the color measurement job; a color measurement unit that executes color measurement based on the color measurement job when the color measurement job is selected, the second communication unit, when the colorimetric unit executes colorimetric measurement based on the colorimetric job, transmits colorimetric execution information indicating a schedule for execution or completion of execution of the colorimetric job to the first communication unit; when the first communication unit receives the color measurement execution information, it transmits a command to delete the color measurement job to the color measurement devices that have not transmitted the color measurement execution information among the plurality of color measurement devices. Color measurement system.

Images