Profile creation device and profile creation method

Abstract

To solve a problem in which when an input color space and an output color space are displayed on a display unit as two-dimensional images, a user has difficulty in visually recognizing the ridges of the color spaces and has difficulty in grasping the relationship between the input color space and the output color space.SOLUTION: A profile creation device causes a display unit to display a display screen for displaying an input color space image and an output color space image, and the profile creation device comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires first color gamut data indicating a color space of an input device, and second color gamut data indicating a color space of an output device; an image creation unit that creates the input color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the first color gamut data, and the output color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the second color gamut data; a display control unit that generates screen data for displaying the display screen including an image display area for displaying the input color space image and the output color space image created by the image creation unit; and an input and output unit that transmits the screen data generated by the display control unit to the display unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a profile creation device and a profile creation method. [Background technology]

[0002] A method for creating a color conversion table used for color conversion from input values ​​to device values ​​of an output device is known. The color conversion table is included in a profile. The color conversion table creation device in Patent Document 1 sets a target color for the maximum saturation point in the input color gamut. The maximum saturation point is the color value of the color with the highest saturation for each hue. The color conversion table creation device displays a target color designation screen on a display unit for designating the maximum saturation point and the target color. The target color designation screen displays an input color space showing the maximum saturation point for each hue and an output color space related to the target point. The image showing the maximum saturation point is a two-dimensional image. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-68181 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When the input color space and the output color space are displayed as two-dimensional images on a display unit, it is difficult for the user to visually recognize the ridge lines of each color space, making it difficult for the user to grasp the relationship between the input color space and the output color space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The profile creation device of the present disclosure is a profile creation device that displays on a display unit a display screen that displays an input color space image related to an input device and an output color space image related to an output device, and includes: an acquisition unit that acquires first color gamut data that indicates the color space related to the input device and second color gamut data that indicates the color space related to the output device; an image generation unit that generates the input color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the first color gamut data and the output color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the second color gamut data; a display control unit that generates screen data for displaying the display screen including an image display area that displays the input color space image and the output color space image generated by the image generation unit; and an input / output unit that transmits the screen data generated by the display control unit to the display unit.

[0006] The profile creation method disclosed herein is a profile creation method for displaying a display screen on a display unit that displays an input color space image related to an input device and an output color space image related to an output device, by acquiring first color gamut data indicating the color space related to the input device and second color gamut data indicating the color space related to the output device, generating the input color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the first color gamut data and the output color space image of the three-dimensional image based on the second color gamut data, generating screen data for displaying the display screen including an image display area that displays the input color space image and the output color space image, and transmitting the screen data to the display unit to display the display screen on the display unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a printing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a printing system. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a test chart. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an outline of color measurement data. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an input screen displayed on a display unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of a first setting screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing how to display a setting screen on the display unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of a second setting screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing how to create an output profile. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of a third setting screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between designated input information and a designated device output value group. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third condition input image. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth condition input image. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fifth condition input image. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a printing system 100. The printing system 100 includes a printing control device 10, a computer 30, and multiple printers 60. The printing control device 10, the computer 30, and the multiple printers 60 are connected to one another via a network NW. The printing control device 10 is connected to a display unit 40 and an input unit 50. As shown in FIG. 1, the multiple printers 60 are a first printer 60a, a second printer 60b, a third printer 60c, and a fourth printer 60d. The printing system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes four printers 60, but is not limited to this. The printing system 100 may include one or more printers 60.

[0009] The print control device 10 generates various profiles. The profiles generated include input profiles and output profiles. The input profile performs color conversion between an input device-dependent color space, such as the sRGB color space, and a device-independent color space. The output profile performs color conversion between a device-independent color space and an output device-dependent color space. The device-independent color space is a profile connection space managed with device-independent colors, such as CIE L*a*b* and CIE XYZ, using an ICC profile. Hereinafter, L*a*b* will be referred to as Lab. The print control device 10 corresponds to an example of a profile creation device.

[0010] The print control device 10 performs color conversion using various profiles. For example, the print control device 10 receives image data expressed in the sRGB color space from the computer 30. The print control device 10 converts the image data expressed in the sRGB color space into converted image data expressed in color values ​​in the profile connection space using an input profile. The print control device 10 then converts the converted image data into print data using an output profile associated with the printer 60.

[0011] The print control device 10 may transmit the generated input profile and output profile to the computer 30. The computer 30 may use the received output profile to perform color conversion on the image data and generate print data.

[0012] The computer 30 generates, edits, and processes image data. The image data handled by the computer 30 is expressed, for example, in the sRGB color space. The computer 30 transmits the image data to the print control device 10. The computer 30 may receive an output profile for the printer 60 from the print control device 10. The computer 30 may generate print data using the output profile for the printer 60. The computer 30 corresponds to an example of an input device.

[0013] The printer 60 prints images on various types of printing media M. The printer 60 prints images on the printing media M using various printing methods. The printing system 100 includes multiple printers 60: a first printer 60a, a second printer 60b, a third printer 60c, and a fourth printer 60d. The first printer 60a, the second printer 60b, the third printer 60c, and the fourth printer 60d each have different printing characteristics. The printing characteristics include the color gamut of the printer 60, the type of printing media M that can be printed on, the number of ink types installed, the printing method, etc.

[0014] The printing system 100 may also include a scanner, a digital camera, a colorimeter, etc. (not shown). The scanner and digital camera correspond to examples of input devices. The colorimeter may be used when creating an output profile.

[0015] The network NW is a communication network that connects the print control device 10, the computer 30, and the printer 60. The network NW connects the print control device 10, the computer 30, and the printer 60 so that they can communicate with each other according to a predetermined communication standard. The network NW may be a local network established within a company, etc., or a global network. The network NW may also be a communication network that combines a local network and a global network.

[0016] FIG. 2 shows the block configuration of the printing system 100. The second printer 60b, third printer 60c, and fourth printer 60d are omitted from the printing system 100 shown in FIG. 2. The block configurations of the second printer 60b, third printer 60c, and fourth printer 60d are the same as those of the first printer 60a shown in FIG. 2. The printing system 100 in FIG. 2 includes a print control device 10, a computer 30, a display unit 40, an input unit 50, and a printer 60, which are configured separately, but this is not limiting. For example, the display unit 40 and the input unit 50 may be configured integrally.

[0017] The print control device 10 includes a control unit 15, a connection unit 25, and a communication interface 27. In FIG. 2, the interface is represented as I / F. The print control device 10 operates as a functional unit by executing programs. The programs executed by the print control device 10 include a profile generation application and a printer driver. The profile generation application generates various profiles. The printer driver generates print data that causes the printer 60 to print.

[0018] The control unit 15 is a controller that executes programs. The control unit 15 operates as various functional units by executing the programs. The control unit 15 may include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. The control unit 15 may have a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a work area.

[0019] The control unit 15 functions as a screen generator 17 and a data processor 19. The screen generator 17 and the data processor 19 are functional units. The control unit 15 operates as the screen generator 17 and the data processor 19 by executing a profile generation program.

[0020] The screen generation unit 17 generates display data for displaying various screens such as a setting screen 203, which will be described later. The display data is transmitted to the display unit 40 via the connection unit 25. The display data causes the display unit 40 to display a screen such as the setting screen 203. The setting screen 203 is a screen on which the user can input various settings when generating an output profile. The screen generation unit 17 corresponds to an example of a display control unit. The setting screen 203 corresponds to an example of a display screen.

[0021] The data processing unit 19 generates various profiles such as an input profile and an output profile. The data processing unit 19 acquires data stored in the data storage unit 21, input data received by the connection unit 25, colorimetric data received by the communication interface 27, etc. The data processing unit 19 generates an output profile using the acquired data, input data, colorimetric data, etc. The data processing unit 19 may also generate print data to be sent to the printer 60.

[0022] The data processing unit 19 generates various images included in the display data. The data processing unit 19 generates an input profile image 220 that indicates the color space of the input device based on the input profile data. The input profile data corresponds to an example of first color gamut data that indicates the color space of the input device. The input profile image 220 will be described later. The data processing unit 19 generates a printer gamut 230 that indicates the color space of the printer 60 based on the colorimetric data. The printer gamut 230 will be described later. The data processing unit 19 corresponds to an example of an image generation unit. The data processing unit 19 acquires the input profile data and colorimetric data and temporarily stores them in a work area of ​​the control unit 15. The work area corresponds to an example of an acquisition unit.

[0023] The data storage unit 21 stores various programs executed by the control unit 15 and various data. The data storage unit 21 stores a profile generation program and a printer driver. The various data include a plurality of input profile data and a plurality of output profile data. The data storage unit 21 stores information such as colorimetric data, which will be described later, and image data generated based on the colorimetric data. The data storage unit 21 is composed of RAM, ROM, etc. The data storage unit 21 may also include a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor memory, etc. The data storage unit 21 may temporarily store the various acquired data. The data storage unit 21 corresponds to an example of an acquisition unit.

[0024] The data storage unit 21 readably stores a plurality of pieces of input profile data. The data storage unit 21 may acquire and store input profile data generated by the data processing unit 19. The data storage unit 21 may acquire and store input profile data transmitted from the computer 30 or the like. The data storage unit 21 temporarily or non-volatilely stores the input profile data transmitted from the computer 30 or the like.

[0025] The connection unit 25 connects to various units such as the display unit 40 and the input unit 50, and transmits and receives various data. The connection unit 25 is an input / output interface that connects to various units. The connection unit 25 has multiple connection ports such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard communication port and a display port. The connection unit 25 shown in FIG. 2 connects to the display unit 40 and the input unit 50. The connection unit 25 transmits display data generated by the screen generation unit 17 to the display unit 40. The connection unit 25 receives input data input to the input unit 50. The connection unit 25 may transmit the received input data to the display unit 40. The connection unit 25 may transmit display data generated by the screen generation unit 17 based on the received input data to the display unit 40. The connection unit 25 corresponds to an example of an input / output unit.

[0026] The communication interface 27 is communicatively connected to the computer 30 and the printer 60. The communication interface 27 is connected to the computer 30 and the printer 60 via a wired or wireless connection in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The communication interface 27 receives image data, etc. from the computer 30. The communication interface 27 may also send an output profile, etc. to the computer 30. The communication interface 27 receives colorimetry data, etc. from the printer 60. The communication interface 27 may also send print data, etc. to the printer 60. The communication interface 27 may also be communicatively connected to various devices, such as a digital camera or colorimeter (not shown). The communication interface 27 corresponds to an example of a connection unit.

[0027] The display unit 40 displays various images. The display unit 40 displays images such as a setting screen 203 (described later) based on display data transmitted from the connection unit 25 of the print control device 10. The display unit 40 may also display images based on input data transmitted from the connection unit 25. The display unit 40 is communicably connected to the connection unit 25 of the print control device 10. The display unit 40 is a display formed of a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) panel. The display unit 40 may be configured integrally with the print control device 10. The display unit 40 corresponds to an example of a display section.

[0028] The input unit 50 accepts input operations from the user. The input unit 50 acquires input data based on the input operations from the user. The input unit 50 transmits the acquired input data to the connection unit 25 of the print control device 10. The input unit 50 is composed of a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The input unit 50 may be configured integrally with the display unit 40. If the display unit 40 is a display with a touch input function, a touch sensor corresponds to the input unit 50. The input data input to the touch sensor may be displayed on the display unit 40. The input unit 50 may be configured integrally with the print control device 10.

[0029] The printer 60 includes a head unit 61, a print control unit 63, a printer storage unit 65, a color measurement unit 67, and a printer communication interface 69. Figure 2 shows a first printer 60a as the printer 60. The first printer 60a is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints images by ejecting ink onto a printing medium M. The printer 60 corresponds to an example of an output device.

[0030] The head unit 61 prints an image on the printing medium M. The head unit 61 prints an image on the printing medium M based on the control of the print control unit 63. The head unit 61 prints a test chart 110 whose color is measured by the color measurement unit 67. The test chart 110 is illustrated in FIG. 3. The head unit 61 may print on the printing medium M based on print data sent from the print control device 10.

[0031] The print control unit 63 is a processor that controls the head unit 61. The print control unit 63 controls the head unit 61 based on the print data, causing the head unit 61 to execute printing. The print control unit 63 causes the head unit 61 to print a test chart 110 based on the test chart data for profile adjustment. The print control unit 63 reads out the test chart data for profile adjustment stored in the printer storage unit 65. The print control unit 63 causes the head unit 61 to print the test chart 110 based on the read out test chart data for profile adjustment.

[0032] The printer storage unit 65 stores programs executed by the print control unit 63 and various data. The printer storage unit 65 is composed of RAM, ROM, etc. The printer storage unit 65 stores multiple test chart data. The multiple test chart data include test chart data for ink amount adjustment, test chart data for profile adjustment, etc. The test chart data for profile adjustment is used when the printer 60 prints the test chart 110 on the print medium M.

[0033] The printer memory unit 65 stores the type of printing medium M on which printing is performed by the head unit 61. The printer memory unit 65 stores the type of printing medium M on which the test chart 110 is printed. The type of printing medium M is input to a control panel (not shown). The printer 60 may determine the type of printing medium M using a sensor (not shown) or the like. The printer memory unit 65 stores printing conditions. The printer memory unit 65 stores the printing conditions under which the test chart 110 is printed. The stored printing conditions include printing modes such as high-speed printing mode and high-resolution printing mode, as well as various setting conditions corresponding to the printing modes. The printer memory unit 65 may also store colorimetry conditions used by the colorimetry unit 67.

[0034] The color measurement unit 67 measures the color of the test chart 110 printed on the printing medium M. The color measurement unit 67 is composed of an image sensor such as a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). The color measurement unit 67 measures the spectral reflectance of the image printed on the printing medium M. For example, the color measurement unit 67 measures the reflectance of light in a wavelength range from 380 nm to 730 nm as the spectral reflectance. The color measurement unit 67 acquires the spectral reflectance as a measurement value. The measurement value is not limited to the spectral reflectance. The color measurement unit 67 may acquire Lab values ​​or XYZ values ​​as the measurement values. The color measurement unit 67 generates multiple measurement values ​​included in the color measurement data.

[0035] The printer communication interface 69 is communicatively connected to the print control device 10. The printer communication interface 69 is communicatively connected to the print control device 10 via the network NW. The printer communication interface 69 is connected to the network NW via a wired or wireless connection. The printer communication interface 69 transmits the colorimetry data measured by the colorimetry unit 67, the colorimetry conditions, the type of printing medium M, and the printing conditions of the test chart 110 to the print control device 10. The printer communication interface 69 receives various data, such as print data, transmitted from the print control device 10.

[0036] 3 shows an outline of the test chart 110. The test chart 110 is printed on a printing medium M. The test chart 110 is generated by printing on the printing medium M using the printer 60. The test chart 110 has a plurality of patch image groups 111, a first position detection image 115, and a second position detection image 117. The test chart 110 corresponds to an example of a color chart.

[0037] The patch image group 111 includes a plurality of patch images 113. The patch images 113 are printed in accordance with the gradations of the ink amounts printed by the printer 60. The number of patch image groups 111 and the number of patch images 113 are set as appropriate. The arrangement of the patch images 113 can be set as appropriate. The arrangement of the patch images 113 is not limited to the configuration in FIG. 3. The plurality of patch images 113 do not have to constitute the patch image group 111.

[0038] The first position detection image 115 and the second position detection image 117 are printed at predetermined positions on the print medium M. The color measurement unit 67 measures the colors of the first position detection image 115 and the second position detection image 117 to determine the printing position of the patch image group 111 or the patch image 113. The first position detection image 115 and the second position detection image 117 shown in FIG. 3 are in the shape of straight bars, but are not limited to this. The shapes and positions of the first position detection image 115 and the second position detection image 117 can be set as appropriate.

[0039] FIG. 4 shows an overview of colorimetric data. The printer 60 generates the colorimetric data by measuring the test chart 110 shown in FIG. 3 using the colorimetric unit 67. The colorimetric data is composed of multiple print setting values ​​and multiple spectral reflectances. The colorimetric data associates the spectral reflectance with each print setting value. The colorimetric data corresponds to an example of second color gamut data that indicates the color space associated with the output device.

[0040] The print setting values ​​indicate the amount of ink for each ink. The (100, 100, 100, 100) on the last line indicate the amount of cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, and black ink, respectively. The amount of cyan ink will hereafter be referred to as the cyan ink amount. The amount of magenta ink will hereafter be referred to as the magenta ink amount. The amount of yellow ink will hereafter be referred to as the yellow ink amount. The amount of black ink will hereafter be referred to as the black ink amount. The amount of ink for each ink is indicated by a value between 0 and 100. Each ink amount is indicated by a gradation value, with the maximum ink ejection amount being 100%. 100% ink amount indicates the ink amount when ejecting a specified number of ink dots of a specified size in an area where a specified number of ink dots can be ejected. (100, 100, 100, 100) indicates a cyan ink amount of 100%, a magenta ink amount of 100%, a yellow ink amount of 100%, and a black ink amount of 100%. The print setting values ​​correspond to an example of generated tone values.

[0041] The spectral reflectance is a measurement value measured by the colorimetric unit 67. Each value in the first row (0.2, 0.05, . . . , 0.3) indicates the reflectance of light at each wavelength. 0.2 indicates the reflectance of light at 380 nm. 0.05 indicates the reflectance of light at 390 nm. Values ​​after 0.05 are omitted in the table, but indicate the reflectance of light in 10 nm increments. The spectral reflectance includes the reflectance of light in 10 nm increments from 380 nm to 730 nm. The spectral reflectance in the first row is a measurement value when the print setting value is (0, 0, 0, 0). 0 indicates that the ink amount is 0%. The spectral reflectance in the first row indicates the spectral reflectance of the printing medium M. The spectral reflectance is not limited to the measurement value shown in FIG. 4. The wavelength of light to be measured, etc., can be set as appropriate. Measurement values ​​such as spectral reflectance correspond to example colorimetric values.

[0042] The printer 60 generates the colorimetric data shown in FIG. 4 . The printer 60 transmits the generated colorimetric data to the communication interface 27 of the print control device 10 via the printer communication interface 69. The printer 60 may convert the spectral reflectance into color values. The printer 60 may transmit the converted colorimetric data to the print control device 10. The print control device 10 stores the transmitted colorimetric data in the data storage unit 21. In addition to the colorimetric data, the printer 60 transmits the type of print medium M, the colorimetric conditions of the colorimetric unit 67, and the printing conditions of the test chart 110. The colorimetric conditions can be used when converting the spectral reflectance into color values ​​such as Lab values. The communication interface 27 of the print control device 10 receives the transmitted type of print medium M, the colorimetric conditions, the printing conditions, etc. The data storage unit 21 of the print control device 10 associates the received data, such as the type of print medium M, the colorimetric conditions, and the printing conditions, with the colorimetric data and stores them in the data storage unit 21.

[0043] The colorimetric data may be generated by a colorimeter (not shown). The colorimeter is connected to the print control device 10. The colorimeter is communicably connected to the communication interface 27 of the print control device 10. The colorimeter measures the spectral reflectance by measuring the color of the test chart 110 printed by the printer 60. The colorimeter may acquire print setting values ​​in advance and generate colorimetric data based on the acquired print setting values ​​and the measured spectral reflectance. The colorimeter transmits the generated colorimetric data to the print control device 10. The colorimeter may convert the spectral reflectance into color values. The colorimeter transmits the converted colorimetric data to the print control device 10. The print control device 10 may generate colorimetric data based on the spectral reflectance transmitted from the colorimeter and the acquired print setting values, and store the data in the data storage unit 21. The print control device 10 may convert the spectral reflectance into color values. The print control device 10 may store the colorimetric data converted into color values ​​in the data storage unit 21.

[0044] The colorimetric data may be stored in advance in a server (not shown). The server is communicably connected to the communication interface 27 of the print control device 10. The print control device 10 acquires the colorimetric data stored in the server.

[0045] The print control device 10 acquires colorimetric data generated by the printer 60 or the like and stores it in the data storage unit 21. As an example, the print control device 10 receives colorimetric data transmitted from the printer 60 via the communication interface 27. The print control device 10 stores colorimetric data consisting of print setting values ​​and spectral reflectance in the data storage unit 21. The print control device 10 may store colorimetric data consisting of color values ​​converted from the print setting values ​​and spectral reflectance in the data storage unit 21. The data storage unit 21 may temporarily acquire the colorimetric data transmitted from the printer 60 or the like.

[0046] First embodiment The first embodiment shows the operation of the print control device 10 to display an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230 on the display unit 40. The print control device 10 displays on the display unit 40 the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 selected by a user's input operation.

[0047] 5 shows an input screen 201 displayed on the display unit 40. The input screen 201 is displayed on the display unit 40 based on input screen display data. The input screen display data is display data that causes the display unit 40 to display the input screen 201. The input screen display data is stored in advance in the data storage unit 21. The input screen display data is transmitted from the print control device 10 to the display unit 40. The print control device 10 transmits the input screen display data stored in the data storage unit 21 to the display unit 40 via the connection unit 25.

[0048] The input screen 201 displays an input profile name display field 211, a load button 212, a printer name display field 213, a mode display field 214, a medium name display field 215, and a first confirm button 216a. The input profile name display field 211 and the load button 212 are input sections related to the input profile. The printer name display field 213, the mode display field 214, and the medium name display field 215 are input sections related to the output profile. The input screen 201 shown in FIG. 5 displays an input section related to the input profile and an input section related to the output profile, but is not limited to this. The display unit 40 may display the input section related to the input profile and the input section related to the output profile on different screens. The input section related to the output profile does not have to be displayed on the display unit 40.

[0049] The input profile name display field 211 displays the file name of the input profile. The input profile name display field 211 displays the file name of the input profile selected by the user's input operation. The user's input operation is accepted by the input unit 50. When the user has not performed an input operation, the input profile name display field 211 is blank. FIG. 5 shows the file name displayed in the input profile name display field 211. When an input profile is selected by the user's input operation, the input profile name display field 211 displays the file name as shown in FIG. 5.

[0050] The load button 212 accepts a user's input operation. When the user clicks the load button 212 using the input unit 50, the load button 212 accepts the user's input operation. When the user's input operation is accepted by the load button 212, the display unit 40 displays a selection screen (not shown). When the user selects a desired input profile from the selection screen, the input profile name display field 211 displays the file name of the selected input profile. The input screen 201 may display a pull-down menu display button (not shown) instead of the load button 212. When the user operates the pull-down display button, the input screen 201 displays a pull-down menu (not shown). The pull-down menu displays multiple input profile names. The user selects a desired input profile name from the input profile names displayed in the pull-down menu. The input profile name display field 211 displays the file name of the selected input profile.

[0051] The printer name display field 213 displays the printer name. The printer name display field 213 displays the printer name of the printer 60 selected by the user. The printer name display field 213 displays a printer selection button 213a. The printer selection button 213a accepts an input operation from the user. When the user clicks the printer selection button 213a using the input unit 50, the printer selection button 213a accepts the user's input operation. When the printer selection button 213a accepts the user's input operation, a pull-down menu (not shown) is displayed. The pull-down menu displays multiple printer names. The user selects the desired printer name from the displayed printer names. The printer name display field 213 displays the selected printer name.

[0052] The mode display field 214 displays the mode name. The mode display field 214 displays the mode name selected by the user. The mode display field 214 displays a mode selection button 214a. The mode selection button 214a accepts user input. When the user clicks the mode selection button 214a using the input unit 50, the mode selection button 214a accepts the user's input. When the mode selection button 214a accepts the user's input, it displays a pull-down menu (not shown). The pull-down menu displays multiple mode names. The displayed mode names are the names of print modes selectable in the printer 60. Print modes include high-speed print mode, normal print mode, and high-resolution mode. The user selects the desired mode name from the displayed mode names. The mode display field 214 displays the selected mode name. The print mode shown in the mode display field 214 in Figure 5 is normal print mode.

[0053] The medium name display field 215 displays the name of the print medium M. The name of the print medium M indicates the type of print medium M. The medium name display field 215 displays the name of the print medium M selected by the user. The medium name display field 215 displays a medium selection button 215a. The medium selection button 215a accepts an input operation from the user. When the user clicks the medium selection button 215a using the input unit 50, the medium selection button 215a accepts the user's input operation. When the medium selection button 215a accepts the user's input operation, a pull-down menu (not shown) is displayed. The pull-down menu displays the names of multiple print media M. The user selects the name of the desired print medium M from the names of the displayed print media M. The medium name display field 215 displays the name of the selected print medium M.

[0054] The first decision button 216a is an example of the decision button 216. The decision button 216 accepts a user's input operation. When the user clicks the decision button 216 using the input unit 50, the decision button 216 accepts the user's input operation. When the first decision button 216a accepts the user's input operation, the print control device 10 confirms the input result to the input screen 201 by the user's input operation. The input result is sent to the print control device 10 as input data. Based on the input data, the print control device 10 identifies the printer 60, print mode, and type of print medium M that are the target of the input profile and output profile.

[0055] The print control device 10 reads out input profile data based on the input data. If the input profile data is stored in the computer 30 or a server (not shown), the print control device 10 acquires the input profile data from the server and stores it in the data storage unit 21. The data processing unit 19 reads out the input profile data of the file name displayed in the input profile name display field 211 from the data storage unit 21. The data processing unit 19 acquires the read input profile data and stores it in the work area.

[0056] The print control device 10 reads out colorimetric data based on the input data. The data processing unit 19 reads out colorimetric data associated with the printer name displayed in the printer name display field 213, the printing conditions displayed in the mode display field 214, and the type of printing medium M displayed in the medium name display field 215 from the data storage unit 21. The data processing unit 19 acquires the read out colorimetric data and stores it in the work area.

[0057] The data processing unit 19 shown in FIG. 2 generates an input profile image 220 shown in FIG. 6 based on the input profile data stored in the work area. The generated input profile image 220 is a three-dimensional image. The input profile image 220 is expressed as a three-dimensional stereoscopic image or a wireframe image. The three-dimensional stereoscopic image is expressed in multiple colors. The data processing unit 19 generates the input profile image 220 of the three-dimensional image and transmits it to the screen generation unit 17. The input profile image 220 corresponds to an example of an input color space image related to the input device.

[0058] The data processing unit 19 generates a printer gamut 230 shown in FIG. 6 based on the colorimetric data stored in the work area. The generated printer gamut 230 is a three-dimensional image. The printer gamut 230 is expressed as a three-dimensional image or a wireframe image. The three-dimensional image is expressed in multiple colors. The data processing unit 19 generates the printer gamut 230 of the three-dimensional image and transmits it to the screen generation unit 17. The printer gamut 230 corresponds to an example of an output color space image related to an output device.

[0059] When the data processing unit 19 receives colorimetric data from the printer 60 via the communication interface 27, it may generate the printer gamut 230 based on the received colorimetric data. If the input section for the output profile is not displayed on the input screen 201, the data processing unit 19 generates the printer gamut 230 in response to the reception of the colorimetric data.

[0060] 2 generates setting screen data for displaying a setting screen 203 using an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230. The screen generation unit 17 generates the setting screen data when the connection unit 25 receives input data or when the data processing unit 19 acquires colorimetric data. The setting screen data is display data for displaying the setting screen 203 on the display unit 40. The setting screen data displays a profile display area 205 and a condition input area 207. The setting screen data corresponds to an example of screen data.

[0061] FIG. 6 shows an outline of the first setting screen 203a. The first setting screen 203a is an example of the setting screen 203. The setting screen 203 is displayed on the display unit 40 based on setting screen data. The first setting screen 203a includes a profile display area 205 and a condition input area 207. The first setting screen 203a does not show an image that can be input into the condition input area 207. The first setting screen 203a shown in FIG. 6 displays the profile display area 205 and the condition input area 207 side by side, but is not limited to this. The profile display area 205 and the condition input area 207 may be displayed on different display screens.

[0062] The profile display area 205 displays an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230. The input profile image 220 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed as a wireframe image. The printer gamut 230 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed as a three-dimensional image. The printer gamut 230 is displayed as a color image. The printer gamut 230 is displayed as a color corresponding to coordinates. The profile display area 205 shown in FIG. 6 displays the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 superimposed, but this is not limiting. The profile display area 205 may also display the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 side by side. The profile display area 205 corresponds to an example of an image display area.

[0063] Displaying the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 as a three-dimensional image makes it easier for the user to understand the relationship between their respective color gamuts. The input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 are composed of color gamuts enclosed by six surfaces. The lines connecting each surface form ridgelines. Displaying the input profile image 220 as a three-dimensional image makes it easier for the user to understand the ridgelines of the input profile. Displaying the printer gamut 230 alongside the input profile image 220 makes it easier for the user to understand the relationship between the vertices of the input profile image 220 and the vertices of the printer gamut 230.

[0064] The profile display area 205 preferably displays the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 in an overlapping manner. This makes it easier for the user to understand the relationship between the positions of vertices, ridgelines, etc. of the input profile image 220 and the positions of vertices, ridgelines, etc. of the printer gamut 230.

[0065] The print control device 10 displays a first setting screen 203a on the display unit 40, the first setting screen 203a displaying an input profile image 220 related to an input device and a printer gamut 230 related to a printer 60. The print control device 10 includes a data storage unit 21 that acquires input profile data and colorimetric data, a data processing unit 19 that generates an input profile image 220 of a three-dimensional image based on the input profile data and a printer gamut 230 of the three-dimensional image based on the colorimetric data, a screen generation unit 17 that generates setting screen data for displaying the first setting screen 203a including a profile display area 205 that displays the input profile image 220 and printer gamut 230 generated by the data processing unit 19, and a connection unit 25 that transmits the setting screen data generated by the screen generation unit 17 to the display unit 40. The user can more easily visually recognize ridgelines and the like of the input profile image 220. The user can more easily grasp the relationship between the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230.

[0066] The profile display area 205 preferably displays an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230 in an overlapping manner. The user can easily understand the relationship between the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230.

[0067] Fig. 7 shows a flowchart for displaying the setting screen 203 on the display unit 40. Fig. 7 shows a part of a method for creating a profile. The print control device 10 generates setting screen data. The print control device 10 transmits the generated setting screen data to the display unit 40, and causes the display unit 40 to display the first setting screen 203a.

[0068] In step S101, the print control device 10 acquires input profile data and colorimetric data. The control unit 15 of the print control device 10 acquires the input profile data in advance. The data processing unit 19 generates input profile data of an ICC profile in advance. The communication interface 27 may receive the input profile data from the computer 30, a server, or the like. The data storage unit 21 acquires and stores the input profile data from the data processing unit 19 or the communication interface 27.

[0069] The print control device 10 acquires colorimetric data by receiving it from the printer 60. The communication interface 27 may receive measurement values ​​such as spectral reflectance from the printer 60 or a colorimeter. The data processing unit 19 generates colorimetric data based on the received measurement values. When the colorimetric data received by the communication interface 27 includes spectral reflectance, the data processing unit 19 converts the spectral reflectance into color values. The data storage unit 21 acquires and stores the colorimetric data from the communication interface 27 or the data processing unit 19.

[0070] After acquiring the input profile data and colorimetric data, the print control device 10 generates an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230 in step S103. When the data processing unit 19 of the print control device 10 receives input data input to the input screen 201 from the input unit 50, it generates the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230. Alternatively, when the data processing unit 19 receives colorimetric data from the printer 60, it generates the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230. When the data processing unit 19 receives colorimetric data from the printer 60, it temporarily stores the colorimetric data in the data storage unit 21 or the work area of ​​the data processing unit 19.

[0071] The data processing unit 19 reads out desired input profile data from the data storage unit 21. The data processing unit 19 reads out, for example, input profile data specified in the input data. The data processing unit 19 generates an input profile image 220 based on the read input profile data. The generated input profile image 220 is a three-dimensional image. The data processing unit 19 generates the input profile image 220 such as a wireframe image or a three-dimensional stereoscopic image. The data processing unit 19 transmits the generated input profile image 220 to the screen generation unit 17.

[0072] The data processing unit 19 reads out colorimetric data stored in the data storage unit 21 or the work area of ​​the control unit 15. The data processing unit 19 generates a printer gamut 230 based on the read out colorimetric data. The generated printer gamut 230 is a three-dimensional image. The data processing unit 19 generates a printer gamut 230 such as a wireframe image or a three-dimensional stereoscopic image. The data processing unit 19 transmits the generated printer gamut 230 to the screen generation unit 17.

[0073] After generating the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230, the print control device 10 generates setting screen data in step S105 and sends it to the display unit 40. The connection unit 25 of the print control device 10 sends the setting screen data to the display unit 40, causing the display unit 40 to display a first setting screen 203a, which is an example of the setting screen 203.

[0074] The screen generator 17 generates setting screen data including the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 received from the data processor 19. The setting screen data causes a profile display area 205 to be displayed on the first setting screen 203a. The screen generator 17 generates setting screen data that causes the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 to be displayed in the profile display area 205. The screen generator 17 may also generate setting screen data that causes the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 to be displayed superimposed on the profile display area 205. The screen generator 17 transmits the generated setting screen data to the display unit 40 via the connection unit 25. The display unit 40 displays the first setting screen 203a including the profile display area 205 that displays the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 based on the transmitted setting screen data. The first setting screen 203a displays the input profile image 220, which is a three-dimensional image, and the printer gamut 230, which is also a three-dimensional image.

[0075] The profile creation method displays a first setting screen 203a on the display unit 40, which displays an input profile image 220 related to the input device and a printer gamut 230 related to the printer 60. The print control device 10 acquires input profile data and colorimetric data, generates an input profile image 220 of a three-dimensional image based on the input profile data and a printer gamut 230 of the three-dimensional image based on the colorimetric data, generates setting screen data for displaying the first setting screen 203a including a profile display area 205 that displays the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230, and transmits the setting screen data to the display unit 40 to display the first setting screen 203a on the display unit 40. The user can more easily visually recognize ridgelines and the like of the input profile image 220. The user can more easily grasp the relationship between the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230.

[0076] Second embodiment The second embodiment illustrates the operation of generating an output profile using mapping conditions input on the setting screen 203. The print control device 10 generates a BtoA table included in the output profile based on the mapping conditions input by the user. The BtoA table is a conversion table that converts color values ​​in the profile connection space into device output values ​​for the printer 60. The mapping conditions indicate color conversion conditions. The mapping conditions correspond to an example of specified conversion conditions.

[0077] 8 shows an outline of the second setting screen 203b. The second setting screen 203b is an example of the setting screen 203. The second setting screen 203b is displayed on the display unit 40 based on setting screen data generated by the screen generation unit 17. The setting screen data for displaying the second setting screen 203b is generated by the screen generation unit 17 in the same manner as the setting screen data for displaying the first setting screen 203a shown in the first embodiment.

[0078] The second setting screen 203b displays a profile display area 205, a condition input area 207, and a second confirm button 216b. The profile display area 205 displays an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230. The profile display area 205 shown in FIG. 8 is the same as the profile display area 205 shown in FIG. 6. The condition input area 207 displays a first condition input image 209a. The first condition input image 209a is an example of a condition input image 209. The condition input image 209 prompts the user to input mapping conditions. The condition input area 207 corresponds to an example of an input area.

[0079] The first condition input image 209a displays mapping conditions input by the user. The mapping conditions are input by the input unit 50 accepting an input operation from the user. The first condition input image 209a displays a numerical value input by the user using the input unit 50. The first condition input image 209a may display a numerical value based on the position where the user clicks on the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 using the input unit 50.

[0080] The first condition input image 209a displays input values ​​and device output values. The input values ​​and device output values ​​are input by the user as a set. The input values ​​shown in FIG. 8 are designated input values ​​specified by the user. The designated input values ​​are values ​​in the input profile image 220. The designated input values ​​are color values ​​such as Lab values. The device output values ​​shown in FIG. 8 are designated device output values ​​specified by the user. They are ink amount data when printing with the printer 60. The device output values ​​correspond to predetermined positions in the printer gamut 230.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 8, Lab0 and Lab1 are input as the designated input values. Lab0 and Lab1 represent color values. Lab0 and Lab1 are expressed as (L value, a value, b value). The L value is expressed in the range of 0 to 100. The a value is expressed in the range of -128 to 127. The b value is expressed in the range of -128 to 127. The designated input values ​​are not limited to Lab values. The designated input values ​​may be XYZ values, etc. The designated input values ​​correspond to an example of designated color values.

[0082] As shown in Figure 8, CMYK0 and CMYK1 are input as the specified device output values. CMYK0 corresponds to Lab0. CMYK1 corresponds to Lab1. Lab0 and CMYK0 specify that the printer 60 prints an image with a color value of Lab0 using ink amounts in CMYK0. CMYK0 and CMYK1 represent ink amounts. CMYK0 and CMYK1 are expressed as (cyan ink amount, magenta ink amount, yellow ink amount, black ink amount). Cyan ink amount indicates the amount of cyan ink. Magenta ink amount indicates the amount of magenta ink. Yellow ink amount indicates the amount of yellow ink. Black ink amount indicates the amount of black ink. The ink amount of each ink is expressed as a value between 0 and 100. Each ink amount is expressed as a gradation value, with the maximum ink ejection amount being 100%. 100% ink amount indicates the ink amount required to eject a specified number of ink dots of a specified size in an area where a specified number of ink dots can be ejected. Each ink amount may be represented by a tone value ranging from 0 to 255. The specified device output value corresponds to an example of the specified output value.

[0083] 8 shows two sets of specified input values ​​and specified device output values, but is not limited to this. One set of specified input values ​​and specified device output values ​​may be input, or three or more sets may be input. The set of specified input values ​​and specified device output values ​​indicates a mapping condition.

[0084] When a specified input value and a specified device output value are input into the first condition input image 209a, the profile display area 205 may display the specified input value and the specified device output value. The profile display area 205 displays a specified input value image indicating the specified input value at the coordinates of the input profile image 220 corresponding to the specified input value. The profile display area 205 displays a specified device output value image indicating the specified device output value at the coordinates of the printer gamut 230 corresponding to the specified device output value.

[0085] The second confirm button 216b is an example of the confirm button 216. When the second confirm button 216b accepts a user's input operation, the print control device 10 confirms the mapping conditions input into the first condition input image 209a by the user's input operation. The mapping conditions are received by the connection unit 25 of the print control device 10. The print control device 10 creates an output profile based on the received mapping conditions.

[0086] The screen generation unit 17 generates a condition input area 207 for inputting mapping conditions for converting designated input values ​​of the input profile image 220 into designated device output values ​​of the printer gamut 230 . The user can input the mapping conditions.

[0087] The screen generation unit 17 generates setting screen data for displaying a second setting screen 203b including a condition input area 207, and the connection unit 25 transmits the generated setting screen data to the display unit 40 and receives the mapping conditions entered on the second setting screen 203b. The user can view the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 and input mapping conditions.

[0088] When the printing control device 10 acquires the mapping conditions, it creates a BtoA table. The BtoA table constitutes part of the output profile. The data processing unit 19 acquires input profile data, colorimetric data, and mapping conditions. The acquired input profile data corresponds to the input profile image 220 displayed on the second setting screen 203b. The colorimetric data corresponds to the printer gamut 230 displayed on the second setting screen 203b. The printing control device 10 creates the BtoA table based on the input profile data, colorimetric data, and mapping conditions.

[0089] Fig. 9 shows a flowchart for creating an output profile. Fig. 9 shows a method for creating a profile. The print control device 10 creates a BtoA table that constitutes a part of the output profile.

[0090] In step S201, the print control device 10 acquires input profile data and color measurement data. The data storage unit 21 acquires and stores the input profile data from the data processing unit 19 or the communication interface 27, as in the first embodiment.

[0091] After acquiring the input profile data and colorimetric data, the print control device 10 generates, in step S203, an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230. As in the first embodiment, the data processing unit 19 generates the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230. The data processing unit 19 transmits the generated input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 to the screen generation unit 17.

[0092] After generating the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230, the print control device 10 generates setting screen data in step S205 and sends it to the display unit 40. By sending the setting screen data to the display unit 40, the print control device 10 causes the display unit 40 to display a second setting screen 203b, which is an example of the setting screen 203.

[0093] The screen generation unit 17 generates setting screen data including the input profile image 220 and printer gamut 230 received from the data processing unit 19. The setting screen data causes a profile display area 205 and a condition input area 207 to be displayed on the second setting screen 203b. The screen generation unit 17 generates setting screen data that causes the input profile image 220 and printer gamut 230 to be displayed in the profile display area 205. The screen generation unit 17 may also generate setting screen data that causes the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 to be displayed superimposed on the profile display area 205. The screen generation unit 17 generates setting screen data that causes the condition input image 209 to be displayed in the condition input area 207. The screen generation unit 17 transmits the generated setting screen data to the display unit 40 via the connection unit 25. Based on the transmitted setting screen data, the display unit 40 displays a second setting screen 203b including a profile display area 205 that displays an input profile image 220 and a printer gamut 230, and a condition input area 207 that displays a condition input image 209. The second setting screen 203b displays the input profile image 220, which is a three-dimensional image, and the printer gamut 230, which is also a three-dimensional image.

[0094] After transmitting the setting screen data to the display unit 40, the print control device 10 receives mapping conditions in step S207. The mapping conditions include one or more pairs of specified input values ​​and specified device output values. The mapping conditions are input by the user. The user views the second setting screen 203b and inputs the mapping conditions using the input unit 50. The connection unit 25 receives the mapping conditions from the input unit 50. The connection unit 25 transmits the received mapping conditions to the data processing unit 19.

[0095] After receiving the mapping conditions, the print control device 10 creates an output profile in step S209. The data processing unit 19 creates a BtoA table based on the acquired input profile data, colorimetric data, and mapping conditions. The data processing unit 19 acquires the input profile data when generating the input profile image 220. The data processing unit 19 acquires the colorimetric data when generating the printer gamut 230. The data processing unit 19 transmits the output profile including the generated BtoA table to the data storage unit 21. The data storage unit 21 stores the received output profile.

[0096] The profile generation method generates a condition input area 207 for inputting mapping conditions for converting the color values ​​of the input profile image 220 into specified device output values ​​of the printer gamut 230, generates setting screen data for displaying a second setting screen 203b including the condition input area 207, displays the second setting screen 203b on the display unit 40, receives the mapping conditions input into the displayed condition input area 207, and generates an output profile based on the received mapping conditions. The user can view the input profile image 220 and the printer gamut 230 and input mapping conditions.

[0097] Third embodiment The third embodiment shows a setting screen 203 that is displayed on the display unit 40 based on setting screen data. Fig. 10 shows a third setting screen 203c. The third setting screen 203c is an example of the setting screen 203.

[0098] The third setting screen 203c is displayed in place of the second setting screen 203b of the second embodiment. The third setting screen 203c displays an input value display image 222, an output value display image 232, and a second condition input image 209b. The profile display area 205 displayed on the third setting screen 203c is the same as the profile display area 205 displayed on the second setting screen 203b. The second confirm button 216b displayed on the third setting screen 203c is the same as the second confirm button 216b displayed on the second setting screen 203b. The input profile image 220 displayed on the third setting screen 203c is the same as the input profile image 220 displayed on the second setting screen 203b. The printer gamut 230 displayed on the third setting screen 203c is the same as the printer gamut 230 displayed on the second setting screen 203b.

[0099] The second condition input image 209b displays an input value, a device output value, and whether or not it can be changed. The input value, the device output value, and whether or not it can be changed are input as a set by the user. The input value corresponds to the color value of the input profile image 220. The device output value corresponds to a predetermined position in the printer gamut 230. The set of the input value, the device output value, and whether or not it can be changed displayed in the second condition input image 209b corresponds to an example of a mapping condition.

[0100] The input value is specified input information specified by the user. The specified input information is a ridge or vertex of the input profile image 220. A vertex is the maximum saturation point of a hue. The specified input information shown in FIG. 10 is the WY ridge. The WY ridge indicates the ridge connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of yellow. The color value of paper white is the color value of the unprinted printing medium M.

[0101] The device output value displays the text entered by the user. The displayed text indicates a set of device output values ​​corresponding to the specified input information. The set of device output values ​​includes one or more device output values. Y pure color shown in Figure 10 indicates a set of device output values. A pure color indicates a set of device output values ​​output with ink of a specific color system. For example, cyan pure color is a set of device output values ​​output with cyan-based ink. If the printer 60 uses dark cyan ink and light cyan ink, the cyan-based inks are dark cyan ink and light cyan ink. Y pure color indicates a set of device output values ​​output with yellow ink.

[0102] FIG. 11 shows the relationship between specified input information and a group of specified device output values. FIG. 11 numerically represents the specified input information and group of specified device output values ​​entered into the third setting screen 203c shown in FIG. 10. The input values ​​in FIG. 11 indicate specified input values. The device output values ​​in FIG. 11 indicate specified device output values. The specified input information is the WY edge line, and the specified device output value is Y pure color. The specified input information is represented by a plurality of specified input values. FIG. 11 represents the specified input values ​​as color values ​​(L value, a value, b value). In FIG. 11, the specified device output values ​​are represented by (cyan ink amount, magenta ink amount, yellow ink amount, black ink amount). Each ink amount is represented by a gradation value from 0 to 255.

[0103] Edges, such as the WY edge, are represented by multiple specified input values. The WY edge shown in FIG. 10 corresponds to multiple input values ​​shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 11 shows 10 input values, but is not limited to this. Edges can be represented by two or more input values.

[0104] As shown in Figure 11, multiple device output values ​​correspond to multiple input values ​​that indicate an edge line. A device output value group including multiple device output values ​​corresponds to the multiple input values ​​that indicate an edge line. The multiple device output values ​​are associated with values ​​in the printer gamut 230. The pure Y color is represented by the amount of yellow ink. The pure yellow color does not include cyan ink, magenta ink, or black ink.

[0105] As shown in Figure 10, when the user specifies an edge line as the specified input information and a solid color as the specified device output value, the data processing unit 19 determines that multiple specified input values ​​and multiple device output values ​​corresponding to the multiple specified input values ​​have been specified.

[0106] The second condition input image 209b displays whether or not the change is possible. Whether or not the change is possible is specified by the user. Whether or not the change is possible displays either allowed or not allowed. Allowed indicates that the data processing unit 19 can change the relationship between the specified input information and the specified device output value group. When the data processing unit 19 performs image processing prioritizing image quality such as gradation, allowed indicates that the user is allowed to change the specified device output value corresponding to the specified input value. Not allowed indicates that the data processing unit 19 cannot change the relationship between the specified input information and the specified device output value group. When the data processing unit 19 performs image processing, not allowed indicates that the user is not allowed to change the specified device output value for the specified input value.

[0107] The input value display image 222 shows the edge line or vertex displayed in the second condition input image 209b. The input value display image 222 is displayed in the profile display area 205. The input value display image 222 is displayed superimposed on the input profile image 220. The input value display image 222 shown in FIG. 10 shows a WY edge line. When an edge line or vertex is input as an input value for the second condition input image 209b, the input value display image 222 is displayed. The input value display image 222 corresponds to an example of an edge line image.

[0108] The output value display image 232 shows the device output values ​​displayed in the second condition input image 209b. The output value display image 232 is displayed in the profile display area 205. The output value display image 232 is displayed superimposed on the printer gamut 230. The output value display image 232 shown in FIG. 10 shows the value of the printer gamut 230 corresponding to the Y pure color. When the device output values ​​of the second condition input image 209b are input, the output value display image 232 is displayed. The output value display image 232 corresponds to an example of an output image.

[0109] The mapping conditions include a plurality of specified input values ​​on the edge indicated by the input profile image 220 and a plurality of specified device output values ​​corresponding to the plurality of specified input values ​​indicated by the printer gamut 230 . The user can use the edges shown in the input profile image 220 as mapping conditions.

[0110] The profile display area 205 displays an input value display image 222 showing edge lines superimposed on the input profile image 220, and displays an output value display image 232 showing a device output value group including multiple device output values ​​superimposed on the printer gamut 230. The user can check the specified input information and the specified device output value group on the display image, making it easy for the user to understand the relationship between the specified input information and the specified device output value group.

[0111] The user may select a predetermined edge line on the input profile image 220 displayed in the profile display area 205. When the user selects a predetermined edge line on the input profile image 220 with the input unit 50, an input value may be displayed in the second condition input image 209b. When the user selects a predetermined edge line on the input profile image 220 with the input unit 50, an input value display image 222 may be displayed. The input value display image 222 is displayed superimposed on the predetermined edge line.

[0112] The user may specify a predetermined position of the printer gamut 230 displayed in the profile display area 205. When the user selects a predetermined position of the printer gamut 230 with the input unit 50, the device output value may be displayed in the second condition input image 209b. When the user selects a predetermined position of the printer gamut 230 with the input unit 50, the output value display image 232 may be displayed.

[0113] Fourth embodiment The fourth embodiment shows a condition input image 209 that is displayed in the condition input area 207 of the setting screen 203 based on the setting screen data. Figures 12, 13, and 14 each show the condition input image 209 that is displayed in the condition input area 207. The condition input images 209 shown in Figures 12, 13, and 14 are displayed in place of the second condition input image 209b in Figure 10.

[0114] FIG. 12 shows a third condition input image 209c. The third condition input image 209c is an example of the condition input image 209. FIG. 12 shows the third condition input image 209c in which the user inputs an edge or a vertex as a specified input value. The third condition input image 209c is displayed in the condition input area 207. The third condition input image 209c displays a plurality of condition displays 241 and a plurality of condition selection fields 242. The third condition input image 209c corresponds to an example of a selection image.

[0115] The condition display 241 indicates the specified input values. The condition display 241 shown in Fig. 12 indicates the edges and vertices. W, C, M, Y, and Bk are used to indicate the edges and vertices of the input profile image 220 in the CMYK color space. W, R, G, and B are used to indicate the edges and vertices of the input profile image 220 in the RGB color space.

[0116] WC indicates the ridge line connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of cyan. WM indicates the ridge line connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of magenta. As mentioned above, WY indicates the ridge line connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of yellow. CBk indicates the ridge line connecting the maximum saturation point of cyan and the maximum saturation point of black. MBk indicates the ridge line connecting the maximum saturation point of magenta and the maximum saturation point of black. YBk indicates the ridge line connecting the maximum saturation point of yellow and the maximum saturation point of black. C indicates the maximum saturation point of cyan. M indicates the maximum saturation point of magenta. Y indicates the maximum saturation point of yellow.

[0117] WR indicates the ridge line connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of red. WG indicates the ridge line connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of green. WB indicates the ridge line connecting the color value of paper white and the maximum saturation point of blue. RBk indicates the ridge line connecting the maximum saturation point of red and the maximum saturation point of black. GBk indicates the ridge line connecting the maximum saturation point of green and the maximum saturation point of black. BBk indicates the ridge line connecting the maximum saturation point of blue and the maximum saturation point of black. R indicates the maximum saturation point of red. G indicates the maximum saturation point of green. B indicates the maximum saturation point of blue.

[0118] The condition selection field 242 is provided corresponding to the condition display 241. The condition selection field 242 accepts an operational input from the user. When the condition selection field 242 accepts an operational input from the user, it displays an image such as a check mark indicating that the input has been selected. The edge or vertex corresponding to the condition selection field 242 that displays the image is determined to be a specified input value by the data processing unit 19. The condition selection field 242 corresponds to an example of an edge selection unit.

[0119] The designated device output value corresponding to the designated input value may be determined in advance. For example, the data storage unit 21 stores in advance that the designated device output value corresponding to the WC edge is a pure cyan color. When the designated device output value corresponding to the edge or vertex is stored in advance in the data storage unit 21, the user does not need to input the designated device output value. The designated device output value corresponding to the designated input value may be input into an output value setting screen (not shown). As with the second condition input image 209b, the user may input the designated device output value into the output value setting screen as appropriate.

[0120] The condition input area 207 includes a third condition input image 209c for selecting a mapping condition. The user can easily set mapping conditions by selecting the desired edges or vertices.

[0121] The third condition input image 209c includes a condition selection field 242 for selecting an edge line shown in the input profile image 220. The user can easily select a desired edge by clicking on the condition selection field 242 .

[0122] Fig. 13 shows a fourth condition input image 209d. The fourth condition input image 209d displays the device output value and changeability displayed in the second condition input image 209b in a selectable manner using a pull-down menu. The specified input value is displayed in a condition display 241. The condition display 241 shown in Fig. 13 shows an edge line. The fourth condition input image 209d displays an output value selection field 244 and a changeability selection field 246.

[0123] The output value selection field 244 selects the device output value corresponding to the edge line, which is the specified input value. The output value selection field 244 displays the output value selection item selected from the pull-down menu. The output value selection items are pure color, numerical value, and OFF. Pure color indicates a pure color on the printer gamut 230. Pure color indicates a pure ink color, such as pure yellow. The numerical value is a device output value within the printer gamut 230. When a numerical value is selected, a numerical value input field (not shown) may be displayed. OFF indicates that the device output value is not set. The output value selection items may include an edge line.

[0124] The change / non-change selection field 246 selects whether or not to change the designated device output value for the designated input value. The change / non-change selection field 246 displays the setting selection items selected from the pull-down menu. The setting selection items are 1, 2, and OFF. 1 indicates non-permission as shown in the third embodiment. 2 indicates permission as shown in the third embodiment. OFF indicates that change / non-permission is not set.

[0125] The user uses the fourth condition input image 209d to set the device output value corresponding to the edge line and whether it can be changed. In Fig. 13, for the WC edge line, the device output value is set to solid color, and whether it can be changed is not permitted. The user can set the mapping conditions for each edge line by selecting the device output value and whether it can be changed from the pull-down menu.

[0126] 14 shows a fifth condition input image 209e. The fifth condition input image 209e is an example of the condition input image 209. Like the second condition input image 209b, the fifth condition input image 209e displays the input value, the device output value, and whether or not it can be changed.

[0127] The input values ​​are displayed as Lab values. The Lab values ​​are expressed as (L value, a value, b value). The user directly inputs the numerical values ​​of the L value, a value, and b value using the input unit 50. The user may input the Lab value by clicking a predetermined position on the input profile image 220 displayed in the profile display area 205. The user can input multiple Lab values.

[0128] The device output value displays the ink amount. The ink amount is expressed as (cyan ink amount, magenta ink amount, yellow ink amount, black ink amount). The user directly inputs the numerical value of each ink amount using the input unit 50. The user may input the ink amount by clicking a predetermined position on the printer gamut 230 displayed in the profile display area 205. The user inputs multiple ink amounts corresponding to multiple Lab values.

[0129] The "Change Allowed / Not Allowed" field displays whether or not changes to the mapping conditions are permitted. The user inputs "Allowed" or "Not Allowed" using the input unit 50. The input field for "Allowed / Not Allowed" may be displayed in a configuration that allows selection from a pull-down menu (not shown). The user selects "Allowed" or "Not Allowed" from the pull-down menu.

[0130] The condition input image 209 is not limited to the first condition input image 209a, the second condition input image 209b, the third condition input image 209c, the fourth condition input image 209d, and the fifth condition input image 209e. The condition input image 209 can be set as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 10...printing control device, 15...control unit, 17...screen generation unit, 19...data processing unit, 21...data storage unit, 25...connection unit, 27...communication interface, 30...computer, 40...display unit, 50...input unit, 60...printer, 60a...first printer, 60b...second printer, 60c...third printer, 60d...fourth printer, 61...head unit, 63...printing control unit, 65...printer storage unit, 67...colorimetry unit, 69...printer communication interface, 100...printing system, 110...test chart, 111...patch image group, 113...patch image, 115...first position detection image, 117...second position detection image, 201...input screen, 203...setting screen, 203a...first setting screen, 203b...second setting screen, 203c...third setting screen, 205...profile file display area, 207...condition input area, 209...condition input image, 209a...first condition input image, 209b...second condition input image, 209c...third condition input image, 209d...fourth condition input image, 209e...fifth condition input image, 211...input profile name display field, 212...load button, 213...printer name display field, 213a...printer selection button, 214...mode display field, 214a...mode Selection button, 215...medium name display field, 215a...medium selection button, 216...decision button, 216a...first decision button, 216b...second decision button, 220...input profile image, 222...input value display image, 230...printer gamut, 232...output value display image, 241...condition display, 242...condition selection field, 244...output value selection field, 246...changeability selection field, M...printing medium, NW...network.

Claims

1. A profile creation device that displays, on a display unit, a display screen that displays an input color space image related to an input device and an output color space image related to an output device, an acquisition unit that acquires first color gamut data indicating a color space related to the input device and second color gamut data indicating a color space related to the output device; an image generation unit that generates the input color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the first color gamut data and the output color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the second color gamut data; a display control unit that generates screen data for displaying the display screen including an image display area that displays the input color space image and the output color space image generated by the image generation unit; an input / output unit that transmits the screen data generated by the display control unit to the display unit; Equipped with the display control unit generates an input area for inputting designated conversion conditions for converting designated color values ​​of the input color space image into designated output values ​​of the output color space image, and further generates the screen data for displaying the display screen including the input area; the input / output unit transmits the generated display screen to the display unit and receives the designated conversion condition input to the display screen; the specified conversion conditions include a plurality of the specified color values ​​on an edge line indicated in the input color space image and a plurality of the specified output values ​​indicated in the output color space image, the image display area displays an edge line image showing the edge line superimposed on the input color space image, and displays an output image showing the plurality of specified output values ​​superimposed on the output color space image. Profile creation device.

2. the image display area displays the input color space image and the output color space image in an overlapping manner; 2. The profile creation device according to claim 1.

3. A profile creation device that displays on a display unit a display screen that displays an input color space image related to an input device and an output color space image related to an output device, an acquisition unit that acquires first color gamut data indicating a color space related to the input device and second color gamut data indicating a color space related to the output device; an image generation unit that generates the input color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the first color gamut data and the output color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the second color gamut data; a display control unit that generates screen data for displaying the display screen including an image display area that displays the input color space image and the output color space image generated by the image generation unit; an input / output unit that transmits the screen data generated by the display control unit to the display unit; Equipped with the display control unit generates an input area for inputting designated conversion conditions for converting designated color values ​​of the input color space image into designated output values ​​of the output color space image; the input area includes a selection image for selecting the specified conversion condition, the selection image includes an edge line selection unit that selects an edge line shown in the input color space image; Profile creation device.

4. A method for creating a profile that displays a display screen on a display unit that displays an input color space image related to an input device and an output color space image related to an output device, comprising: obtaining first color gamut data indicating a color space associated with the input device and second color gamut data indicating a color space associated with the output device; generating the input color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the first color gamut data and the output color space image of a three-dimensional image based on the second color gamut data; generating screen data for displaying the display screen including an image display area for displaying the input color space image and the output color space image; transmitting the screen data to the display unit and displaying the display screen on the display unit; generating an input area for inputting designated conversion conditions for converting designated color values ​​of the input color space image into designated output values ​​of the output color space image; generating the screen data for displaying the display screen including the input area; displaying the display screen on the display unit, and receiving the designated conversion condition input in the displayed input area; generating an output profile based on the received specified conversion conditions; the specified conversion conditions include a plurality of the specified color values ​​on an edge line indicated in the input color space image and a plurality of the specified output values ​​indicated in the output color space image, the image display area displays an edge line image showing the edge line superimposed on the input color space image, and displays an output image showing the plurality of specified output values ​​superimposed on the output color space image. How to create a profile.

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