Image processing apparatus, image forming system, image processing method, and program

Abstract

To display the amount of correction of the gradation of image data in color stabilization processing.SOLUTION: An image processing apparatus comprises: a color stabilization processing unit that executes control of determining the amount of correction of the gradation of image data to be printed on the basis of a read image obtained by reading a recording medium as a result of print processing; and a display control unit that performs control of displaying information indicating the correction amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image forming system, an image processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Techniques for performing gradation correction processing to correct the gradation of colors used for printing in an image forming apparatus have been developed. There is disclosed a technique for performing color stability processing that reads a printed matter printed by an image forming apparatus with a sensor and determines a correction amount in gradation correction processing of image data to be printed by comparing the read color with a target color.

[0003] Further, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for displaying information indicating a color difference between reference chromaticity data and read color information in an apparatus that performs color stability processing.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the conventional technology, the correction amount of the gradation of image data in color stability processing is not displayed. If the correction amount of the gradation of image data is not displayed, even if information indicating a color difference is displayed, the user cannot grasp how the color stability processing acts on the generated color difference. For example, when it is possible to select whether to enable the color stability function, it is difficult to make a judgment.

[0005] The disclosed technology aims to display the correction amount of the gradation of image data in color stability processing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The disclosed technology includes a color stability processing unit in which an image processing apparatus executes control to determine a correction amount of gradation of image data to be printed based on a read image obtained by reading a recording medium of a print processing result, and a screen that is updated over time, and the printed color corrected according to the correction amount and the reference color within a predetermined time until the update. color differenceThe system includes a display control unit that controls the display of information representing the data in chronological order and display information representing the magnitude of the correction amount last determined up to the update, on a first screen where these are displayed side by side. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This allows you to display the amount of tonal correction applied to image data during color stabilization processing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the overall configuration of an image forming system. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of an image processing device. [Figure 3] This is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the functions of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of an image processing flow. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the color stabilization process flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the display control processing flow. [Figure 8] This is the first figure showing an example of a color stabilization function display screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] The second figure shows an example of a color stabilization function display screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of how color difference and correction amounts are displayed. [Figure 11] This is a diagram to explain how the correction amount is displayed. [Figure 12] This is a diagram illustrating the method for calculating the correction amount. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the functions of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the color stabilization process flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation panel screen according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing an example of a color stability function display screen according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of the functions of an image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing an example of a color stability function display screen according to the third embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, embodiments of an image forming system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an image forming system.

[0011] The image forming system 1 includes an image processing apparatus 10, an image forming apparatus 20, a user terminal 30, and a management server 40.

[0012] The image processing apparatus 10 is a device that controls the image forming apparatus 20, and is, for example, a DFE (Digital Front End). The image processing apparatus 10 is communicably connected to the image forming apparatus 20, the user terminal 3, and the management server 40.

[0013] When the image processing apparatus 10 receives print job data together with a signal instructing printing of an image from the user terminal 30 or the management server 40, it converts the print job data into image data in a format that can be processed by the image forming apparatus 20 by a built-in RIP (Raster Image Processor) engine, and transmits the converted image data to the image forming apparatus 20.

[0014] The image forming apparatus 20 is an apparatus for forming images, such as a color production printer, laser printer, or inkjet printer. The image forming apparatus 20 receives image data from the image processing apparatus 10 and prints an image on paper based on the received image data. Paper is an example of a recording medium on which an image is formed.

[0015] The user terminal 30 is a terminal that, in response to user input, instructs the printing of an image. Specifically, the user terminal 30 sends job data, including image data, to the image processing device 10 or the management server 40. The user terminal 30 also sends information indicating the threshold for color stabilization processing to the image processing device 10 in response to user input. Furthermore, the user terminal 30, in response to display control from the image processing device 10, displays a screen showing the execution status of the color stabilization processing.

[0016] When the management server 40 receives job data from the user terminal 30, it adds it as a queue to the storage unit that stores job data awaiting printing. The management server 40 then extracts the job data from the queue in the order in which it was added, or according to a priority set as appropriate, and sends it to the image processing device 10.

[0017] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of an image processing device.

[0018] The image processing device 10 is built by a computer and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) / SSD (Solid State Drive) 104, and I / F (Interface) 105, all of which are interconnected by a bus.

[0019] The CPU 101 reads the program stored in the ROM 102 or HDD / SSD 104 and stores it in the RAM 103. Then, the CPU 101 executes various processes, as described later, according to the program stored in the RAM 103.

[0020] ROM102 is a non-volatile auxiliary storage device. ROM102 stores a program that defines the basic operation of the image processing device 10, such as the BIOS.

[0021] RAM103 is volatile main memory. RAM103 is used as the working area for CPU101.

[0022] The HDD / SSD104 is a high-capacity, non-volatile auxiliary storage device. The HDD / SSD104 stores received image data, programs for various processes described later, configuration information, and other data.

[0023] I / F105 includes a LAN (Local Area Network) card and acts as a relay when the image processing device 10 communicates with the image forming apparatus 20, user terminal 30, or management server 40.

[0024] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of an image forming apparatus.

[0025] The image forming apparatus 20 has a configuration in which photoreceptor drums 203Y, 203M, 203C, and 203K of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black (hereinafter referred to as Y, M, C, and K, respectively) are arranged along an endless moving intermediate transfer belt 202. Images of each color developed by toner on the surface of each color photoreceptor drum are superimposed by the intermediate transfer belt 202 to form a full-color image.

[0026] The formed full-color image is fed from the paper tray 200 and transferred onto the paper by the transfer roller 204 via the transport roller 201. The paper is then transported further, and the toner is fixed by the fuser roller 205.

[0027] Furthermore, when performing double-sided printing, after image formation on the front surface, the paper is transported to the reversal path 207 in the transport path, where the front and back sides are reversed, and then transported again to the position of the transfer roller 204.

[0028] The image forming apparatus 20 is also equipped with inline sensors 206a and 206b. The inline sensors 206a and 206b read the image fixed on both sides of the paper after it has been fixed by the fixing roller 205, and transmit the read image data indicating the read image to the image processing apparatus 10 via a communication device. Note that there are not necessarily two inline sensors; one or more sensors are sufficient, as long as they can read one or both sides of the paper being transported.

[0029] Figure 4 shows an example of the functions of an image processing device.

[0030] The image processing device 10 comprises a color conversion processing unit 11, a gradation correction unit 12, an intermediate tone processing unit 13, a color stabilization processing unit 14, and a storage unit 15.

[0031] The color conversion processing unit 11 performs a predetermined color conversion process on the CMYK or RGB values ​​of the input image data using a RIP engine or the like, to convert it into CMYK format image data suitable for the image forming apparatus 20.

[0032] The tone correction unit 12 corrects the tone of the image data converted by the color conversion processing unit 11 based on the corrected gamma information 90. When the color stabilization function is set to "OFF", the tone correction unit 12 uses the pre-set corrected gamma information 90. The pre-set corrected gamma information 90 may be linear data, in which case no correction will be made in effect. Alternatively, the corrected gamma information 90 may be set according to the performance of the image forming apparatus 20.

[0033] Furthermore, if the color stabilization function is set to "ON", the gradation correction unit 12 corrects the gradation of the image data using the corrected gamma information 90 generated by the color stabilization processing unit 14. The gradation correction unit 12 stores data indicating the correction result in the RAM 103 or HDD / SSD 104.

[0034] The halftone processing unit 13 processes the halftone colors and converts the 8-bit image data corrected by the gradation correction unit 12 into 2-bit image data.

[0035] The color stabilization processing unit 14 implements a color stabilization function. Specifically, the color stabilization processing unit 14 generates correction gamma information 90 used for gradation correction by the gradation correction unit 12, based on the read image data received from the image forming apparatus 20 and the print information received from the user terminal 30 or the management server 40.

[0036] Furthermore, the color stabilization processing unit 14 generates color difference information 91 indicating the color difference between the reference color and the printed color, based on information indicating the reference color. Specifically, the color stabilization processing unit 14 calculates the color difference based on the differences in lightness, saturation, hue, etc., between the reference color and the printed color. Note that various methods are known for calculating the color difference, and any method may be used.

[0037] The color stabilization processing unit 14 may also generate corrected gamma information 90 based on the generated color difference information 91.

[0038] The memory unit 15 stores various types of information. Specifically, the memory unit 15 stores corrected gamma information 90 and color difference information 91.

[0039] The display control unit 16 controls the display of information indicating the amount of gradation correction performed by the color stabilization processing unit 14. Specifically, the display control unit 16 generates screen data indicating the status of the color stabilization processing in response to a request from the user terminal 30 and transmits it to the user terminal 30. The display control unit 16 and the storage unit 15 are server devices provided by the image processing device 10 and may be configured as a web server or the like that can be accessed from the user terminal 30's web browser application. The user terminal 30 displays a screen based on the received screen data. Specific examples of screens displayed by the user terminal 30 will be described later.

[0040] The image forming apparatus 20 also includes an image forming unit 21 and a reading unit 22.

[0041] The image forming unit 21 prints an image onto a recording medium based on the drawing data received from the image processing device 10.

[0042] The reading unit 22 reads the recording medium on which the image is printed, generates read image data, and transmits the generated read image data to the image processing device 10. The reading unit 22 is realized by controlling inline sensors 206a, 206b, etc.

[0043] Next, the operation of the image forming system 1 will be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0044] Figure 5 shows an example of an image processing flow.

[0045] As a prerequisite, the image forming apparatus 20 performs printing according to the processing flow described later, and stores the read image data obtained by reading the image of the printed paper. Note that the print job for the read image data may be the same as or different from the print job that is the target of the image processing.

[0046] For example, based on the image data obtained by reading the print results from page 1 to page 20 of a certain print job, image data from page 21 onwards of the same print job may be corrected.

[0047] When the image processing device 10 receives print job data from the user terminal 30 or the management server 40, the color conversion processing unit 11 performs color conversion processing (step S11). Specifically, the color conversion processing unit 11 converts the received print job data into CMYK format image data suitable for the image forming apparatus 20.

[0048] Next, the color stabilization processing unit 14 performs color stabilization (step S12). Details of the color stabilization process will be described later.

[0049] Next, the tone correction unit 12 performs tone conversion processing (step S13). Tone conversion processing is a process that corrects the tone of the image data converted by the color conversion processing unit 11 based on the corrected gamma information.

[0050] Next, the halftone processing unit 13 performs halftone processing (step S14). Halftone processing is the process of converting the 8-bit image data corrected by the gradation correction unit 12 into 2-bit drawing data for use by the image forming apparatus 20.

[0051] Then, the image processing device 10 performs drawing data transmission processing (step S15). Drawing data transmission processing is the process of transmitting the 2-bit drawing data converted by the halftone processing unit 13 to the image forming apparatus 20.

[0052] Figure 6 shows an example of the color stabilization process flow according to the first embodiment.

[0053] The color stabilization process in step S12 shown in Figure 5 will be described in detail. The color stabilization processing unit 14 performs the following process for each page of the print job. First, the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines whether the feedback completion flag is valid or not (step S21). The feedback completion flag is a flag that indicates whether the corrected gamma information 90 generated by the color stabilization processing unit 14 has been set in the gradation correction unit 12.

[0054] Specifically, the feedback completion flag is a flag that indicates either an enabled or disabled value. Initially, it is enabled, and becomes disabled when the corrected gamma information 90 generated by the color stabilization processing unit 14 is set in the gradation correction unit 12. This prevents overcorrection by generating corrected gamma information 90 based on the image data before correction by the gradation correction unit 12. In other words, the corrected gamma information 90 for the next feedback can be generated only after the generated corrected gamma information 90 has been reflected in the print.

[0055] When the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the feedback completion flag is valid (step S21: Yes), it acquires the read image data (step S22). The color stabilization processing unit 14 then determines whether the number of color measurement points in the read image data is sufficient (step S23). The number of color measurement points is the number of image data (observation points) that can be observed on the printed paper. For example, the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines whether the number of measured colors is sufficient from observation points on about four sheets of paper. The number of about four sheets of paper used for the determination is less than or equal to a predetermined number of sheets as defined by the conditions described later, and the paper is printed based on printed image data whose gradation has been corrected by applying the corrected gamma information 90.

[0056] Next, when the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the number of color measurement points is sufficient (step S23: Yes), it generates color difference information 91 and corrected gamma information 90 (step S24).

[0057] Specifically, the color stabilization processing unit 14 generates corrected gamma information 90 to correct the color difference between the reference color and the measured color result. The color stabilization processing unit 14 also generates color difference information 91 that indicates the color difference between the reference color and the measured color result. The reference color is a reference color for stabilizing the color, and may be a color pre-set in the image processing device 10, or a target color specified by the user.

[0058] The color difference information 91 is time-series data, for example, the color difference of 50% gradation for each CMYK color, associated with the measurement time, for display on the display screen described later. When calculating the color difference of 50% gradation, the color stabilization processing unit 14 estimates the print color of 50% gradation from the color measurement results and calculates the color difference between the estimated print color and the reference color of 50% gradation. The print color used to calculate the color difference is the color based on the results of measuring the printed recording medium, and may be the color actually measured, or it may be a color estimated from the color measurement results as a specified gradation color, such as 50% gradation.

[0059] Note that the color difference information 91 is not limited to 50% gradation, but may include color differences of multiple gradations. In that case, the screen data of the display screen described later may include information indicating color differences of multiple gradations.

[0060] Furthermore, the corrected gamma information 90 is information indicating the amount of correction performed by the tone correction unit 12. The correction amount is the correction amount for each CMYK color, and is associated with the color difference information 91 to indicate which color difference the correction amount was calculated based on.

[0061] Next, the color stabilization processing unit 14 sets the generated corrected gamma information 90 to the tone correction unit 12 and disables the feedback completion flag (step S25). As a result of this process, in the tone conversion process of step S13 shown in Figure 5 thereafter, the tone correction unit 12 performs tone correction based on the generated corrected gamma information 90.

[0062] Next, the color stabilization processing unit 14 stores the color difference information 91 and the corrected gamma information 90 in the storage unit 15 (step S26). Then, the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines whether or not the print job being processed has been completed (step S27). If the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the print job has been completed (step S27: Yes), it terminates the color stabilization process. If the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the print job has not been completed (step S27: No), it returns to step S21.

[0063] In step S21, if the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the feedback completion flag is not valid (step S21: No), it determines whether the conditions for enabling the feedback completion flag are met (step S28).

[0064] The conditions for enabling the feedback completion flag are, for example, (a) A specified number of prints (e.g., 20) were made after the feedback completion flag was deactivated. (b) A specified time (e.g., 20 seconds) has elapsed since the feedback completion flag was deactivated. (c) The gradation correction unit 12 has received notification that it has started gradation correction processing. These are predetermined conditions, such as those mentioned above.

[0065] If the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the conditions for enabling the feedback completion flag are met (step S28: Yes), it enables the feedback completion flag (step S29). If the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the conditions for enabling the feedback completion flag are not met (step S28: No), it skips the process in step S29.

[0066] Then, the color stabilization processing unit 14 proceeds to the process in step S27. Also, if in step S23 the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the number of color measurement points is insufficient (step S23: No), it proceeds to the process in step S27.

[0067] As described above, in the color stabilization process, the color stabilization processing unit 14 generates color difference information 91 indicating the color difference between the print color and the reference color, and correction gamma information 90 indicating the correction amount, based on the scanned images obtained by scanning a predetermined number of sheets of paper defined by specified conditions. The generated color difference information 91 and correction gamma information 90 are then set in the gradation correction unit 12 to be applied to the gradation correction of the next predetermined number of print target image data, and stored in the storage unit 15 in a displayable format. As a result, the display control unit 16 can control the display of the correction gamma information 90 and color difference information 91 by the display control process described later.

[0068] Figure 7 shows an example of the display control processing flow.

[0069] The display control unit 16 receives a display request from the user terminal 30 (step S31). The display request is, for example, a request made via HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) communication.

[0070] The display control unit 16 generates screen data indicating the color difference and correction amount based on the color difference information 91 and correction gamma information 90 stored in the storage unit 15 (step S32), and transmits the generated screen data to the user terminal 30 (step S33).

[0071] The screen data includes graphs plotting the 50% color difference of each CMYK color over time, as well as displays indicating the strength of the correction amount.

[0072] Figure 8 is a first diagram showing an example of a color stabilization function display screen according to the first embodiment.

[0073] The color stabilization function display screen 1000 is a screen that is displayed on the user terminal 30 when the color stabilization function is enabled. Specifically, the color stabilization function display screen 1000 includes a "Real-time" tab 1001 and a "Specified Period" tab 1002 for selecting how to specify the period to be displayed.

[0074] Figure 8 shows the state when the "Real-time" tab 1001 is selected. In this case, the color stabilization function display screen 1000 displays the target period selection field 1003. The target period selection field 1003 allows you to select how many minutes prior to the current time the data to display.

[0075] Figure 9 is a second diagram showing an example of a color stabilization function display screen according to the first embodiment.

[0076] Figure 9 shows the state when the "Specify Period" tab 1002 is selected. In this case, the color stabilization function display screen 1000 shows the period specification field 1004. In the period specification field 1004, the start date and end date and time of the target period can be selected.

[0077] Figure 10 shows an example of how color difference and correction amount are displayed.

[0078] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of the C50% graph portion of the color stabilization function display screen 1000. The color stabilization function display screen 1000 includes graphs for M50%, Y50%, and K50%, similar to those in Figure 10.

[0079] Each color graph section includes a plot 1005 showing the color difference between the reference color and the printed color (estimated value) for each color, and a bar 1006 showing the correction amount for each color. The plot 1005 and bar 1006, etc., are display components controlled by the display control unit 16. For example, the display components and display screen may consist of a web page generated and provided by the Web server provided by the image processing device 10, consisting of HTML (HyperText Markup Language), JavaScript (registered trademark), or CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), etc.

[0080] Plot 1005 shows the color difference over time for the period selected by the method shown in Figures 8 and 9. The vertical axis of the graph represents the color difference, and the horizontal axis represents the measurement time. The measurement time is the time included in the period selected in the period selection field 1003 or the period specified in the period specification field 1004.

[0081] Bar 1006 is a display component whose displayed color intensity changes according to the correction amount included in the generated correction gamma information 90. The display component that displays the magnitude of the correction amount may be a display component whose color, shape, or pattern changes, or it may be a display component whose size indicator (such as High or Low) changes. Also, for example, if the "Real-time" tab 1001 is selected, Bar 1006 represents the correction amount included in the last generated correction gamma information 90. In this case, the display control unit 16 may perform control to display the correction amount before applying it to the gradation correction of the image data, depending on when the correction amount has been determined. Alternatively, the display control unit 16 may perform control to display the correction amount depending on when the determined correction amount has been applied to the gradation correction of the image data. Also, for example, Bar 1006, which is a display component that shows the magnitude of the correction amount for each colorant, may be displayed on each graph of the plot 1005 that shows the color difference for each of the multiple CMYK colorants.

[0082] Furthermore, if the "Real-time" tab 1001 is selected, the latest information may always be displayed. Specifically, for example, the user terminal 30 may periodically send an HTTP request to the image processing device 10 to display the screen (reload) every second. Alternatively, the image processing device 10 may automatically send all or part of the screen data (for example, the graph portion for each color) to the user terminal 30 using a bidirectional communication protocol such as WebSocket.

[0083] Additionally, if the "Specify Period" tab 1002 is selected, bar 1006 represents the correction amount associated with the color difference displayed at the last time within the specified period.

[0084] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating how the correction amount is displayed.

[0085] For example, if the correction amount is 0, i.e., no correction, bar 1006 is not displayed, and regardless of whether the correction amount is positive or negative, the larger the absolute value, the darker the color displayed. The color intensity changes, for example, for every digit of the gamma correction amount. Although this explanation uses gamma correction, if the correction by the gradation correction unit 12 is an adjustment of the LUT (Lookup Table; luminance conversion curve), the correction amount may be the value determined (ΔE).

[0086] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the method for calculating the correction amount.

[0087] Figure 12 shows the area ratio of the input image (0-255 digits) on the horizontal axis and the area ratio of the output image (0-255 digits) on the vertical axis. In calculating the correction amount described above, the color stabilization processing unit 14 calculates the correction amount by, for example, the amount of movement of the median portion (black dot in Figure 12) from the area ratio at the gamma value before correction to the area ratio at the gamma value after correction.

[0088] According to the image forming system 1 of this embodiment, the color stabilization processing unit 14 performs control to correct the gradation of the image data to be printed based on the read image obtained by reading the recording medium of the print processing result, and the display control unit 16 performs control to display information indicating the amount of gradation correction by the color stabilization processing unit 14. This makes it possible to display the amount of gradation correction of the image data in the color stabilization process. In particular, if the color stabilization function is provided to the user of the image forming system 1 as a paid function, the user can understand whether or not the color stabilization function is working effectively by looking at the displayed correction amount, which is highly convenient.

[0089] Furthermore, the display control unit 16 according to this embodiment performs control to display the correction amount before applying it to the correction of the grayscale of the image data. This makes it possible to display the correction amount in real time.

[0090] Furthermore, the display control unit 16 controls the display of information indicating the color difference between the print color associated with the correction amount and the reference color. This allows the results of the color stabilization function to be displayed. The display control unit 16 also controls the display of this color difference in chronological order. This allows the results of the color stabilization function to be displayed in chronological order.

[0091] In this embodiment, an example of displaying color difference in chronological order is shown, but it may also be displayed according to the number of pages, sheets, or copies in the print job. In that case, the color stabilization processing unit 14 stores information indicating the color difference associated with the page number or copy number in the print job as color difference information 91 in the storage unit 15.

[0092] In this case, if the "Real-time" tab 1001 is selected on the color stabilization function display screen 1000, a selection field for selecting the number of pages, copies, or sheets of the target print job will be displayed instead of the target period selection field 1003. Also, if the "Specify Period" tab 1002 is selected, a field for specifying the start and end dates for the number of pages, copies, or sheets of the target print job will be displayed instead of the period specification field 1004. The horizontal axis of the graph shown in Figure 10 will then represent the number of pages, copies, or sheets of sheets. This allows the results of the color stabilization function to be displayed in accordance with the number of pages, copies, or sheets of sheets of the print job.

[0093] (Second Embodiment) A second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the image processing apparatus 10 further includes a print stop unit. Therefore, the following description of the second embodiment will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and components having the same functional configuration as the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0094] Figure 13 shows an example of the functions of an image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment.

[0095] The image processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment has a configuration in which a print stop unit 17 is added to each part of the image processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0096] The print stop unit 17 determines whether or not to stop printing based on the color difference calculated by the color stabilization processing unit 14, and sends an instruction to the image forming apparatus 20 to stop the print job based on the determination result.

[0097] In addition, the memory unit 15 stores threshold information 92, as well as corrected gamma information 90 and color difference information 91.

[0098] Threshold information 92 is information indicating a pre-set threshold. This threshold is determined by operations performed on the settings screen displayed on the user terminal 30, and is a value that serves as a criterion for the print stop unit 17 to determine whether or not to stop printing.

[0099] Figure 14 shows an example of the color stabilization process flow according to the second embodiment.

[0100] In the color stabilization process according to this embodiment, following the process in step S24 of the color stabilization process according to the first embodiment, the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines whether the color difference is less than a threshold (step S31). If the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the color difference is less than a threshold (step S31: Yes), it performs the process in step S25, and thereafter the process is the same as the color stabilization process according to the first embodiment.

[0101] Furthermore, if the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the color difference is not below a threshold (step S31: No), the print stop unit 17 sends an instruction to the image forming apparatus 20 to stop the print job (step S32), and terminates the color stabilization process.

[0102] Figure 15 shows an example of a settings screen according to the second embodiment.

[0103] The settings screen 1100 is displayed when the "Settings" tab 1001 is selected, and includes a checkbox 1102 for enabling the print stop function, a threshold input field 1103, and a threshold specification bar 1104.

[0104] The enable checkbox 1102 is a checkbox for selecting whether or not to enable the function of the print stop unit 17. In addition, the threshold input field 1103 and the specification bar 1104 are displayed in conjunction so that when one is changed, the other is also changed, allowing the user to set the threshold using either the threshold input field 1103 or the specification bar 1104.

[0105] A threshold is set for each of the CMYK colors. Therefore, in the determination in step S31 of Figure 14, the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines whether the color difference of each CMYK is less than the threshold set for each. The color stabilization processing unit 14 determines that the color difference is not below the threshold if any of the CMYK color differences is not below the threshold. In other words, the condition for continuing printing is that all CMYK colors are below the threshold.

[0106] Figure 16 shows an example of an operation panel screen according to the second embodiment.

[0107] When the image forming apparatus 20 receives a print stop instruction from the print stop unit 17, it temporarily stops the print job and displays the operation panel screen 1200 shown in Figure 16. Specifically, the operation panel screen 1200 includes a print continue button 1201, a print cancel button 1202, and a color stabilization function stop button 1203.

[0108] When the print continuation button 1201 is pressed, the image forming apparatus 20 resumes the print job that was temporarily stopped. When the print cancellation button 1202 is pressed, the image forming apparatus 20 cancels the print job that was temporarily stopped. Also, when the color stabilization function stop button 1203 is pressed, printing continues with the color stabilization function (CSF) disabled. The operation panel screen 1200 also displays information indicating the job, number of copies, and number of pages at the time of stopping.

[0109] Figure 17 shows an example of a color stabilization function display screen according to the second embodiment.

[0110] The color stabilization function display screen 1000 according to this embodiment includes a color fluctuation detection message 1007 and a threshold display 1008.

[0111] When the color stabilization processing unit 14 determines in step S31 of Figure 14 that the color difference is not below the threshold, the display control unit 16 sends information to the user terminal 30 indicating that a color change has been detected. Then, the color stabilization function display screen 1000 displays a color change detection message 1007 indicating that a color difference exceeding the threshold has occurred.

[0112] Furthermore, the threshold display 1008 shows the thresholds set in the settings screen 1100 on a graph for each CMYK color. The threshold display 1008 is displayed together with the plot 1005 and bar 1006 shown in Figure 10.

[0113] According to the image forming system 1 of this embodiment, the print stop unit 17 controls the system to stop printing when the color difference between the print color and the reference color exceeds a preset threshold. This prevents the system from continuing to print when there is a high probability that the print will deviate from the target color, thereby reducing printing costs and other factors.

[0114] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it displays the control status of the color stabilization function. Therefore, the following description of the third embodiment will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and components having the same functional configuration as the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0115] Figure 18 shows an example of the functions of an image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment.

[0116] In this embodiment, the image processing apparatus 10 stores control state information 93 in the storage unit 15, in addition to the corrected gamma information 90 and color difference information 91 according to the first embodiment.

[0117] The control status information 93 indicates the control status of the color stabilization process, and is, for example, a value of either "in control" or "stopped." Specifically, in the following states, the color stabilization process is stopped, and the control status information 93 will be a value indicating "stopped." Printing is currently stopped. • Paper characteristics information (information indicating the characteristics of the printing paper) has not been created. • The profile information used when creating the paper characteristics information differs from the profile information used during printing. • It is printed in monochrome. • The image data does not allow for color measurement (for example, it consists only of solid areas or line drawings). • An abnormality has occurred in the color stabilization processing unit 14.

[0118] In all other states, the color stabilization process is in control, and the control status information 93 will be a value indicating that it is in control.

[0119] Figure 19 shows an example of a color stabilization function display screen according to the third embodiment.

[0120] The color stabilization function display screen 1000 according to this embodiment includes a control status display 1009. The display control unit 16 transmits screen data, including a message and image indicating whether the color stabilization function is in control or stopped, to the user terminal 30 as the control status display 1009.

[0121] According to the image forming system 1 of this embodiment, the display control unit 16 performs control to display the control status of the color stabilization processing unit 14. This makes it possible to display the control status of the color stabilization function. The user can then check whether the color stabilization function is running or not, and if it is stopped, they can take action to resolve the problem.

[0122] In each of the embodiments described above, the image processing apparatus 10 and the image forming apparatus 20 can be configured to share the disclosed processing steps in various combinations. Furthermore, the elements of the image processing apparatus 10 and the image forming apparatus 20 may be combined into a single apparatus or divided into multiple apparatuses.

[0123] In one embodiment, the image processing device 10 may be configured as an information processing system including multiple computing devices such as a server cluster. The multiple computing devices are configured to communicate with each other via any type of communication link, including a network or shared memory, and may perform the processing disclosed herein.

[0124] Each of the functions of the embodiments described above can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Hereinafter, "processing circuit" as used herein includes processors programmed to execute each function by software, such as processors implemented by electronic circuits, as well as devices such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), DSPs (Digital Signal Processors), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), and conventional circuit modules designed to execute each of the functions described above.

[0125] Although the present invention has been described above based on various embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the requirements shown in the above embodiments. These points can be modified as long as they do not impair the spirit of the present invention, and can be appropriately determined according to their application. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0126] 1. Image forming system 10 Image Processing Device 11. Color conversion processing unit 12-level tone correction section 13. Intermediate adjustment section 14 Color Stabilization Processing Unit 15 Storage section 16 Display Control Unit 17 Print stop section 20 Image forming apparatus 30 User terminals 40 Management Server [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0127] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-019143

Claims

1. A color stabilization processing unit performs control to determine the amount of gradation correction of the image data to be printed based on the read image obtained from the recording medium of the print processing result, A display control unit that controls the display of a first screen which is updated over time, and which displays side by side information representing the color difference between the printed color corrected according to the correction amount and the reference color within a predetermined time period up to the update, and display information representing the magnitude of the correction amount last determined up to the update. An image processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The display control unit performs control to display on the first screen, adjacent to each other, the information representing the color difference between the corrected print color and the reference color within the predetermined time period up to the present time, in chronological order, and the display information representing the magnitude of the correction amount that was last determined up to the present time. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The display control unit further displays on the first screen that the color stabilization function is being executed using the correction amount determined by the color stabilization processing unit, while the color stabilization function is being executed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The display control unit further determines that an abnormality has occurred regarding the color variation based on the color difference between the printed color corrected according to the correction amount and the reference color, and displays this abnormality on the first screen. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The display control unit controls the display information to change its color, color density, shape, or pattern according to the magnitude of the correction amount. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, A reading unit reads a recording medium on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit, A color stabilization processing unit performs control to determine the amount of gradation correction of the image data to be printed based on the read image obtained from the recording medium of the print processing result, A display control unit that controls the display of a first screen which is updated over time, and which displays side by side information representing the color difference between the printed color corrected according to the correction amount and the reference color within a predetermined time period up to the update, and display information representing the magnitude of the correction amount last determined up to the update. An image forming system comprising the following features.

7. A computer-based image processing method, The process involves a step of executing control to determine the amount of gradation correction of the image data to be printed, based on the read image obtained by reading the recording medium of the print processing result, and A control step of displaying on a first screen that is updated over time, the first screen having side by side information representing the color difference between the corrected print color and the reference color according to the correction amount during a predetermined time period up to the update, and display information representing the magnitude of the correction amount that was last determined up to the update. Image processing methods including [specific details omitted].

8. On the computer, The process involves a step of executing control to determine the amount of gradation correction of the image data to be printed, based on the read image obtained by reading the recording medium of the print processing result, and A control step of displaying on a first screen that is updated over time, the first screen having side by side information representing the color difference between the corrected print color and the reference color according to the correction amount during a predetermined time period up to the update, and display information representing the magnitude of the correction amount that was last determined up to the update. A program to execute.

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