Information processing device, information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To enable a plurality of printed images with different printing conditions to be checked before printing.SOLUTION: An information processing device for displaying a preview of a printed matter includes the steps of: acquiring image data to be printed (step S11); generating, based on texture adjustment information obtained by associating printing conditions with texture information indicating the texture of the printed matter to be printed under the printing conditions, a plurality of rendering images from the image data (step S13); causing a display unit to display the plurality of generated rendering images (step S14); receiving a selection of one rendering image among the plurality of displayed rendering images (step S15); and determining the printing conditions for the image data as printing conditions corresponding to the selected rendering image (step S16).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In the printing industry, in addition to color printing using ink, toner, etc., decorative printing that imparts a high-class and high-quality feeling to printed matter is used. Examples of decorative printing include foil stamping and varnish coating. Foil stamping is a printing method in which a resin film with a metal layer previously vapor-deposited thereon is pressed against a target base material, and the foil (metal layer) is transferred to an arbitrary location on the base material. Varnish coating is a printing method in which a transparent resin layer called varnish is formed on an arbitrary location or the entire surface of a base material that has been previously color-printed.

[0003] For decorative printing such as foil stamping and varnish coating, even if the image data (submitted data) used for printing is the same, the output results (the texture of the printed matter) vary greatly depending on the printing conditions of the printing machine. Therefore, unless there is sharing of the finished image between the printing requester (such as a designer) and the printing contractor (such as a converter), trial printing and changes to the printing conditions will have to be repeated many times until the texture desired by the printing requester is achieved.

[0004] FIG. 10 shows a conventional workflow until design confirmation. First, a designer creates design data (image data) related to printing (step S101) and submits the image data to a converter (step S102). The converter considers the printing conditions (step S103), performs trial printing (step S104), and presents the printed matter to the designer (step S105). The designer checks the trial-printed printed matter (step S106) and, if there are any parts to be corrected, requests the converter to make corrections (step S107). Then, the processing after step S103 is repeated. On the other hand, if the designer checks the printed material (step S106) and finds that the output is satisfactory, the designer notifies the converter of their approval (step S108), and the converter starts the main print run with the approved content (step S109).

[0005] In particular, in decorative printing, the processes shown in steps S103 to S107 in Figure 10 (the area enclosed by the dashed line 110) tend to be repeated multiple times. Therefore, for printing contractors, decorative printing is costly and also takes a long time to deliver.

[0006] As a technique for checking the finished state before printing, for example, a preview device has been proposed that generates an image consisting of an image of the printing medium corresponding to the actual printed material and an image of the printed content formed on the printing medium, based on print data and print setting information, and dynamically displays the image in a predetermined video pattern (see Patent Document 1). The preview device described in Patent Document 1 is mainly intended for previews related to bookbinding, and is a device that checks whether the correct printing can be performed for print setting information such as "double-sided printing" and "right-bound / left-bound" through the preview.

[0007] Furthermore, a display control system has been proposed that uses a texture profile, which shows the correspondence between print data values ​​representing the amount of printing material and texture information data values ​​representing the texture of the printed surface of the printed material, to acquire texture information data from print data, derive image display data for displaying an image based on the acquired texture information data, and convert the derived image display data into image display data to be input to a specific display using a display profile (see Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-192580 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-152533 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] However, the preview device described in Patent Document 1 is intended for checking print settings such as "double-sided printing" and "right-bound / left-bound," which have obvious differences in appearance, and was not intended to address differences in texture due to printing conditions.

[0010] Furthermore, the display control system described in Patent Document 2 performs rendering that represents texture using the BRDF (Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function) of the ink used for printing. However, the displayed output result is only one, making it difficult to determine the conditions for outputting the desired printed material in a single image display process.

[0011] This invention has been made in view of the problems in the prior art described above, and aims to enable the confirmation of multiple printed images with different printing conditions before printing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] To solve the above problems, the invention described in claim 1 is an information processing device for displaying a preview of a printed material, comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring image data to be printed; printing conditions; and texture adjustment information which associates the image data with texture information indicating the texture of the printed material to be printed according to the printing conditions, and then processing the image data from the image data. , in accordance with each texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each of the aforementioned texture adjustment information The system is characterized by comprising a generation means for generating multiple rendering images, and a display control means for displaying the multiple rendering images generated by the generation means on a display means.

[0013] The invention described in claim 2 is characterized in that, in the information processing apparatus described in claim 1, it comprises a receiving means for receiving the selection of any rendering image from among a plurality of rendering images displayed on the display means, and a determining means for determining the printing conditions for the image data to be the printing conditions corresponding to the selected rendering image.

[0014] The invention described in claim 3 is characterized in that, in the information processing apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, the display control means causes the image data and the plurality of rendering images to be displayed on the display means simultaneously.

[0015] The invention described in claim 4 is characterized in that, in the information processing device described in claim 1 or 2, the printing conditions include image material information or printer setting information.

[0016] The invention described in claim 5 is characterized in that, in the information processing device described in claim 4, the printing press setting information includes at least the thickness of the decorative layer.

[0017] The invention described in claim 6 is characterized in that, in the information processing apparatus described in claim 4, the image material information includes at least one of a substrate or a decorative material.

[0018] The invention described in claim 7 is characterized in that, in the information processing apparatus described in claim 6, the decorative material includes varnish or foil material.

[0019] The invention described in claim 8 is characterized in that, in the information processing device described in claim 1 or 2, the texture information includes data on reflective properties.

[0020] The invention described in claim 9 is characterized in that, in the information processing apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, the texture adjustment information is pre-stored in a plurality of storage means, and the generation means generates the plurality of rendering images based on the plurality of texture adjustment information stored in the storage means.

[0021] The invention according to claim 10 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the generation means generates the plurality of rendering images from the image data based on observation environment conditions indicating an environment for observing a printed matter in addition to the texture adjustment information.

[0022] The invention according to claim 11 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the observation environment conditions include angle setting information or light source information on a virtual space when displaying the plurality of rendering images.

[0023] The invention according to claim 12 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the light source information includes standard light source information defined by the CIE or measured light source information measured by a user.

[0024] The invention according to claim 13 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the measured light source information is a spectral spectrum in the visible light region.

[0025] The invention according to claim 14 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the angle setting information is an incident angle of a light source with respect to an object and an observation angle of an observer.

[0026] The invention according to claim 15 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising second acquisition means for acquiring the observation environment conditions.

[0027] The invention according to claim 16 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the generation means changes the plurality of rendering images in accordance with a change in the observation environment conditions.

[0028] The invention according to claim 17 is an information processing method for performing preview display of a printed matter, the method including: an acquisition step of acquiring image data of a printing target; printing conditions; and texture adjustment information associated with the printing conditions and indicating the texture of the printed matter printed according to the printing conditions. Based on the texture adjustment information, from the image data , in accordance with each texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each of the aforementioned texture adjustment information The method is characterized by including a generation step of generating multiple rendering images, and a display control step of displaying the multiple rendering images generated in the generation step on a display means.

[0029] The invention described in claim 18 is an information processing system for displaying a preview of a printed material, comprising: acquisition means for acquiring image data to be printed; printing conditions; and texture adjustment information which associates the image data with texture information indicating the texture of the printed material to be printed according to the printing conditions, and then processing the image data from the image data. , in accordance with each texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each of the aforementioned texture adjustment information The system is characterized by comprising a generation means for generating multiple rendering images, and a display control means for displaying the multiple rendering images generated by the generation means on a display means.

[0030] The invention described in claim 19 relates to a computer of an information processing device that performs a preview display of a printed material, and based on acquisition means for acquiring image data to be printed, printing conditions, and texture adjustment information which associates texture information indicating the texture of the printed material to be printed according to the printing conditions, from the image data , in accordance with each texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each of the aforementioned texture adjustment information This is a program for causing a generation means to generate multiple rendered images, and a display control means to display the multiple rendered images generated by the generation means on a display means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0031] According to the present invention, multiple images of the printed state with different printing conditions can be checked before printing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0032] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the workflow up to design finalization when using the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing apparatus in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure shows a concrete example of texture adjustment information. [Figure 4]This flowchart shows the print condition determination process performed by the information processing device. [Figure 5] This is an example of a rendering image display screen. [Figure 6] This figure shows the relationship between the values ​​of each parameter included in the printing conditions and the rendered image generated based on the corresponding reflective properties data for each printing condition. [Figure 7] This is an example of a rendering image display screen shown on the information processing device in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is an example of a rendering image display screen shown on the information processing device in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is an example of a rendering image display screen shown on the information processing device in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the traditional workflow for finalizing a design. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0033] Embodiments of the information processing device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0034] [First Embodiment] First, I will describe the outline of the present invention. Figure 1 shows the workflow up to design finalization when using the present invention. First, the designer (the client requesting the print) creates the design data (image data) for printing (Step S1) and submits the image data to the converter (the printing contractor) (Step S2). The converter uses the information processing device 10 (see Figure 2) to output multiple rendering images with different printing conditions onto the screen (step S3), and presents the multiple rendering images to the designer on the screen (step S4). The designer reviews multiple rendering images displayed on the screen (Step S5) and selects one of the rendering images from among them (Step S6). The converter starts the print job with the print conditions corresponding to the selected rendering image (step S7).

[0035] Figure 2 shows the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 in the first embodiment of the present invention. The information processing device 10 is composed of a control unit 11, a display unit 12, an operation unit 13, a communication unit 14, a storage unit 15, etc., and each unit is connected by a bus. The information processing device 10 is composed of a computer device such as a PC (Personal Computer). The information processing device 10 displays a preview of the printed material based on the image data to be printed and is used when determining the printing conditions. The printing conditions and image data determined in the information processing device 10 are transmitted to the printing press 20 (including the embellishment unit), and the printing press 20 outputs the printed material.

[0036] The information processing device 10 is used by operators (converters) who perform DTP and printing work at companies that own printing presses 20 and decoration machines. The printing client (designer, etc., who creates packages and graphics) is then asked to select one of several rendering images (corresponding to multiple printing conditions).

[0037] The control unit 11 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and comprehensively controls the processing operations of each part of the information processing device 10. Specifically, the CPU reads various processing programs stored in the memory unit 15, loads them into the RAM, and performs various processing operations in cooperation with those programs.

[0038] The display unit 12 is equipped with a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays various screens according to the instructions of the display signals input from the control unit 11.

[0039] The operation unit 13 is comprised of a keyboard with cursor keys, character / number input keys, and various function keys, and a pointing device such as a mouse. It outputs operation signals input by key operations on the keyboard or mouse to the control unit 11. Furthermore, if the operation unit 13 is comprised of a touch panel stacked on the display unit 12, it outputs operation signals to the control unit 11 according to the position of touch operations by the user's finger or the like.

[0040] The communication unit 14 is composed of network interfaces and the like, and performs data transmission and reception with external devices connected via a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet.

[0041] The storage unit 15 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc., and stores various processing programs, data necessary for the execution of those programs, and so on.

[0042] The memory unit 15 stores a number of pre-prepared texture adjustment information 151. The texture adjustment information 151 is information that associates printing conditions with texture information that indicates the texture of the printed material printed under those printing conditions. The texture information indicates the texture, such as gloss and three-dimensionality, which is caused by the materials that make up the printed material.

[0043] Printing conditions include image material information, printer settings information, etc. Image material information refers to information about the materials used in printed materials, including the base material (type and name of recording medium such as paper), decorative materials, and ink (type and name of ink, whether or not there is an ink layer, etc.). Here, image material information includes at least one of either the base material or the decorative materials. Decorative materials include varnish or foil materials. The printing press settings information is the setting information for the printing press 20 and the decoration machine that output the printed material, and includes the printing press 20, the decoration machine used (type and name of the decoration machine, etc.), the thickness of the decoration layer, surface treatment conditions, etc. Here, the printing press settings information will include at least the thickness of the decoration layer. The surface treatment conditions are the conditions for surface treatment of the printed material, and include surface treatment (no surface treatment, lamination, corona treatment, etc.).

[0044] Texture information includes data on reflection characteristics (hereinafter referred to as reflection characteristic data). As reflection characteristics, the angular distribution of brightness of reflected light and spectral reflectance, which change depending on the angle of incidence and reflection of light to the image, can be used. Any angular bending characteristic such as the Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF), Bidirectional Texture Function (BTF), or Bidirectional Scattering Surface Reflectance Distribution Function (BSSRDF) may be used as the angular distribution of brightness of reflected light. In addition to reflection characteristics, other characteristics such as light absorption characteristics, transmission characteristics, refractive index, scattering degree, and surface roughness may also be used as texture information. In this embodiment, reflection characteristic data represented by BRDF (angular distribution of spectral reflectance R(λ)), which is the distribution of brightness of reflected light, is used as texture information.

[0045] The texture information used in this embodiment is generated by actually outputting a printed material for each possible value of printing conditions such as image material information (substrate, decorative material, ink, etc.) and printer setting information, and measuring the intensity of reflected light while changing the angle of incidence and reflection of light to the printed material. Specifically, it is possible to obtain BRDF by measuring each printed material using a SpectrumBRDF measuring device (S-OGM) manufactured by Digital Fashion Co., Ltd. Furthermore, since this texture information is obtained for each printing condition, even if the input image data is the same, the output result (rendered image) will change depending on the texture information used during rendering.

[0046] Figure 3 shows a specific example of texture adjustment information 151. Texture adjustment information 151 associates printing conditions (printer settings information, image material information) with texture information (reflection characteristic data). In the example shown in Figure 3, the printer settings information includes varnish thickness, corona treatment, UV LED output, IR treatment output, etc., and the image material information includes substrate and decorative material. The reflection characteristic data is a set of data on the intensity of reflected light measured while changing the angle of incidence and reflection of light for a printed material output under these printing conditions.

[0047] When preparing multiple texture adjustment information sets 151 in advance, it is conceivable to measure texture information (reflection characteristic data) for as many combinations of values ​​as there are possible for each parameter of the printing conditions, in order to determine how to adjust each parameter. However, since this could result in an enormous amount of data, it is also acceptable to prepare the texture adjustment information sets 151 for each parameter of the printing conditions by limiting them to representative values.

[0048] The control unit 11 acquires image data to be printed. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as an acquisition means. The image data includes color print data as well as decorative image data. Color print data is data of a normal color image (4C image data) formed by inks or toners such as cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. Color print data is usually created and saved as 8-bit RGB data in vector format. However, when input to the printing press 20, it is converted to raster format (e.g., bitmap format) for each color according to the number of colors used in printing, and then input to the printing press 20. Alternatively, after being input to the printing press 20, it may be converted to raster format within the printing press 20 before being used for printing. The decorative image data includes at least one of the following: foil decorative data and varnish decorative data. Foil decorative data is image data for forming metallic foil such as gold or silver, or holographic foil, on a substrate (such as paper). Varnish decorative data is image data for applying varnish to a substrate. Generally, decorative image data is created in grayscale or binary.

[0049] The control unit 11 generates multiple rendering images from image data based on texture adjustment information 151, which associates printing conditions with texture information indicating the texture of the printed material to be printed under those printing conditions. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as a generation means.

[0050] Here, the control unit 11 generates multiple rendering images based on the multiple texture adjustment information 151 stored in the memory unit 15. Specifically, for each of the multiple texture adjustment information 151, the control unit 11 generates a rendering image based on the texture information (reflection characteristic data) associated with the printing conditions (combination of parameters) contained in the texture adjustment information 151.

[0051] The control unit 11 generates multiple rendering images from the image data based on the texture adjustment information 151 and observation environment conditions that indicate the environment in which the printed material is observed.

[0052] Observation environment conditions are prerequisites for displaying multiple rendered images. Specifically, observation environment conditions include angle setting information or light source information between the light source, object, and observer in the virtual space. The angle setting information is the angle information between the light source, the object, and the observer, and includes the angle of incidence of the light source on the object and the observer's viewing angle. Light source information includes standard light source information (such as D65 light sources) as defined by the CIE (International Commission on Illumination), or measured light source information measured by the user. Light source information (standard light source information, measured light source information) includes the intensity distribution of light in the visible light region (380-780 nm) incident on the material surface and is represented by a spectral distribution. Measured light source information can be measured using common measuring instruments such as spectroradiometers. This allows users to check the appearance of decorative printing in desired locations, such as stores, using rendered images.

[0053] The control unit 11 acquires observation environment conditions. That is, the control unit 11 functions as a second acquisition means. For example, the control unit 11 receives measurement light source information measured in the environment used by the designer from an external device via the communication unit 14. The control unit 11 uses the acquired observation environment conditions when generating the rendering image.

[0054] The rendered image is an image (printed image) that represents how the printed material will look when output by the printing press 20 (including the decorative press if decorative printing is performed), based on image data and texture adjustment information 151 (specifically, reflection characteristic data associated with printing conditions) (and, if necessary, on observation environment conditions). In particular, when decoration such as foil stamping or varnishing is applied, the rendered image is greatly influenced by the decorative image data (foil decoration data, varnish decoration data), and will have a texture such as gloss. In generating the rendered image, the control unit 11 calculates, for each pixel, how it will look when the observer's eye moves to a different location, based on the light source, the object to be rendered, and the angle of the eye when observing (a set of incident angle and reflection angle), assuming a virtual space. As a rendering image, for example, a 3D display that changes the viewpoint (angle of the printed material) relative to the printed material can be used. Alternatively, a display method that shows the printed material from an oblique angle can be used even in a still image, so that the texture can be perceived.

[0055] The rendering image is generated by the following method. First, the control unit 11 calculates the stimulus values ​​(XYZ stimulus values ​​in this embodiment) that represent the appearance of the image from the spectral spectrum S(λ), color matching function, and spectral reflectance R(λ) of the light source used when generating the rendering image, using the following equation (1). Note that the spectral spectrum S(λ), color matching function, and spectral reflectance R(λ) of the light source are functions of wavelength λ. The spectral spectrum S(λ) of the light source is light source information included in the observation environment conditions. The spectral reflectance R(λ) is included in the texture information (reflection characteristic data) and changes depending on the angle of the printed material displayed on the display.

[0056]

number

[0057] Furthermore, K in equation (1) is given by the following equation (2).

[0058]

number

[0059] Next, the control unit 11 converts the XYZ stimulus values ​​into sRGB signal values ​​for display on the display using the following equations (3) and (4).

[0060]

number

[0061] The control unit 11 causes the generated multiple rendering images to be displayed on the display unit 12. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as a display control means. For example, the control unit 11 causes the image data and multiple rendering images to be displayed on the display unit 12 simultaneously.

[0062] Specifically, the control unit 11 outputs the sRGB signal values ​​obtained as described above to the display (display unit 12), and displays the rendered image on the display unit 12. By using the spectral reflectance R(λ) according to the angle, a texture close to that of the eye can be expressed. When displaying a printed image (rendered image) using 3D display, the above process can be continuously repeated while changing the angle of the printed material.

[0063] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 is adjusted so that the colors of the images displayed on the display unit 12 match as closely as possible to the colors of the printed material printed and decorated by the printing press 20.

[0064] The control unit 11 accepts the selection of one of the multiple rendering images displayed on the display unit 12 based on an operation from the operation unit 13. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as a receiving means. The control unit 11 determines the printing conditions for the image data to match the printing conditions corresponding to the selected rendering image. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as a determination means.

[0065] Next, the operation of the information processing device 10 will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the print condition determination process performed by the information processing device 10. The print condition determination process is realized through software processing involving the cooperation of the control unit 11 and the program stored in the storage unit 15.

[0066] First, the control unit 11 acquires the image data to be printed (step S11). The image data includes layers for color printing data (4C image data), foil decoration data, and varnish decoration data. For example, the control unit 11 acquires the image data by receiving it from a PC used by a designer via the communication unit 14. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may acquire the image data by reading it from a recording medium or the like brought to a printing company.

[0067] Next, the control unit 11 acquires a plurality of pre-stored texture adjustment information 151 (information relating printing conditions and reflective characteristic data) from the storage unit 15 (step S12). Here, since it is not practical to acquire all of the texture adjustment information 151 stored in the storage unit 15, some of the available texture adjustment information 151 may be acquired randomly. Among the printing conditions included in the texture adjustment information 151, one parameter that can be greatly adjusted is the varnish thickness (thickness of the decorative layer).

[0068] Next, the control unit 11 generates multiple rendering images from the image data based on the reflection characteristic data contained in each texture adjustment information 151 and the observation environment conditions (step S13). Note that predetermined conditions (constant conditions) may be used as the observation environment conditions.

[0069] Next, the control unit 11 displays the generated rendering images on the display unit 12 (step S14). For example, the control unit 11 displays the rendering images side by side on the display unit 12 along with the image data.

[0070] Figure 5 shows an example of the rendering image display screen 121 displayed on the display unit 12. The rendering image display screen 121 includes an image data area 30 and rendering image areas 31 to 38. Image data area 30 displays image data created by the designer. Rendering image areas 31 to 38 each display rendering images corresponding to printing conditions 1 to 8. A "rendering image corresponding to a printing condition" is a rendering image generated from image data based on the texture information (reflection characteristic data) associated with the printing conditions in the texture adjustment information 151. In each rendering image, there are differences in the texture (gloss, three-dimensionality, etc.) of the "chocolate" logo, which is scheduled to be foil-stamped and varnished.

[0071] Figure 6 shows the relationship between the values ​​of each parameter included in the printing conditions (1-8) and the rendering image generated based on the corresponding reflective properties data. Here, the parameters included in the printing conditions are the printing press settings information (varnish thickness, corona treatment, UV LED output, IR treatment output, UV LED output halogen output, foil stamping roller temperature).

[0072] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a rendering image has been selected from among the multiple rendering images based on the user's operation from the operation unit 13 (step S15). Specifically, the designer who requested the print selects a rendering image that will result in the desired finish from among the multiple rendering images displayed on the screen of the display unit 12 by operating the operation unit 13. If no rendering image is selected (step S15; NO), return to step S15.

[0073] In step S15, if any of the rendering images are selected (step S15; YES), the control unit 11 determines the printing conditions for the image data to be printed to be the printing conditions corresponding to the selected rendering image (step S16). The "printing conditions corresponding to the rendering image" are the printing conditions associated with the texture information (reflection characteristic data) used when the rendering image was generated in the texture adjustment information 151.

[0074] Next, the control unit 11 transmits the image data to be printed and the determined printing conditions to the printer 20 via the communication unit 14, causing the printer 20 to output the printed material (step S17). The printer 20 then starts printing based on the image data and printing conditions. This completes the process of determining the print conditions.

[0075] If none of the rendering images displayed in step S14 meet the designer's needs, the conditions (texture adjustment information 151, observation environment conditions) may be changed, and steps S13 and S14 may be repeated.

[0076] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 generates multiple rendering images from image data based on multiple texture adjustment information 151 and displays them on the display unit 12, so that multiple images of the finished product with different printing conditions can be checked before printing. This preview function allows the user to check the finished state, including the texture, without actually printing. By displaying multiple images of the finished product (rendered images) with different printing conditions before printing, the image of the finished product can be shared between the print requester and the print contractor.

[0077] Furthermore, since multiple rendered images are displayed simultaneously with the image data, it becomes easier to recognize the differences between each rendered image and the reference image (the submitted image data).

[0078] Furthermore, by accepting the selection of one of the displayed rendering images, the printing conditions for the image data can be determined to correspond to the printing conditions of the selected rendering image. Before printing the submitted image data, the printing requester can intuitively decide on the printing conditions by virtually reproducing multiple print results on the screen under various printing conditions.

[0079] Furthermore, by including image material information in the printing conditions, it becomes possible to reflect differences in texture due to the base material, decorative materials (varnish, foil, etc.) in each rendered image. Furthermore, by including printing press settings information in the printing conditions, it becomes possible to reflect differences in texture due to the thickness of the decorative layer, etc., in each rendered image.

[0080] Furthermore, in addition to the texture adjustment information 151, multiple rendering images can be generated from the image data based on observation environment conditions that indicate the environment in which the printed material is viewed. This allows each rendering image to reflect the differences in texture due to the observation environment conditions. By using angle setting information and light source information as observation environment conditions, rendering images can be presented that are appropriate to the observation environment.

[0081] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. Since the information processing device in the second embodiment has the same configuration as the information processing device 10 shown in the first embodiment, we will refer to Figure 2 and omit the illustration and description of its configuration. The configuration and processing characteristic of the second embodiment will be described below.

[0082] In the second embodiment, the observation environment conditions can be changed on the screen where the printed material is previewed, in response to the user's (designer's, etc.) operation.

[0083] The control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 generates multiple rendering images from image data based on the texture adjustment information 151 as well as observation environment conditions (angle setting information, light source information).

[0084] The control unit 11 changes multiple rendering images in response to changes in the observation environment conditions. For example, the observation environment conditions can be changed for multiple rendered images displayed on the display unit 12 in response to operations from the operation unit 13.

[0085] In the second embodiment, the printing condition determination process performed by the information processing device 10 is the same as the process shown in Figure 4. However, in step S14, when displaying multiple rendering images on the display unit 12, the observation environment conditions can be changed.

[0086] Figures 7, 8, and 9 show examples of rendering image display screens 122 to 124 displayed on the display unit 12. The rendering image display screen 122 shown in Figure 7 includes a light source information setting area 40 and rendering image areas 41A to 44A. The light source information setting area 40 is an area for setting light source information during rendering. The user selects the desired light source information by operating from the control unit 13. In the light source information setting area 40, light source information 40A, named "D50", is set. Rendering image areas 41A to 44A display rendering images corresponding to print conditions 1 to 4, respectively.

[0087] For example, the user can change the angle setting information of the observation environment conditions by performing operations such as rotating the mouse wheel or pressing the left mouse button on the operation unit 13. In response to the operation from the operation unit 13, the control unit 11 regenerates rendering images corresponding to printing conditions 1 to 4 so as to continuously change the observer's observation angle relative to the object (printed material), and displays them on the display unit 12.

[0088] The rendering image display screen 123 shown in Figure 8 is the display state after changing the "observer's observation angle relative to the object" by a predetermined amount compared to the rendering image display screen 122 shown in Figure 7. The rendering image display screen 123 includes the light source information setting area 40 and the rendering image areas 41B to 44B. The light source information setting area 40 is the same as that of the rendering image display screen 122. Rendering image areas 41B to 44B each display rendering images corresponding to printing conditions 1 to 4, which are images whose viewing angle has been changed from the images displayed in rendering image areas 41A to 44A of the rendering image display screen 122.

[0089] The rendering image display screen 124 shown in Figure 9 is the display state after changing the "observer's observation angle relative to the object" by a predetermined amount compared to the rendering image display screen 123 shown in Figure 8. The rendering image display screen 124 includes the light source information setting area 40 and the rendering image areas 41C to 44C. The light source information setting area 40 is the same as that of the rendering image display screen 122. Rendering image areas 41C to 44C each display rendering images corresponding to printing conditions 1 to 4, which are images whose viewing angle has been changed from the images displayed in rendering image areas 41B to 44B of the rendering image display screen 123.

[0090] The transition from rendering image display screen 122 (see Figure 7) to rendering image display screen 123 (see Figure 8), and from rendering image display screen 123 to rendering image display screen 124 (see Figure 9), is performed in accordance with the operation from the operation unit 13, so that the rendering images displayed on each screen change continuously.

[0091] The user selects their desired printing conditions (rendering image) by operating the control unit 13 while observing how each rendering image changes on the screen displayed on the display unit 12. The control unit 11 determines the printing conditions for the image data to be printed, matching the printing conditions to the selected rendering image. The control unit 11 transmits the image data to be printed and the determined printing conditions to the printer 20 via the communication unit 14, causing the printer 20 to output the printed material. The printer 20 then starts printing based on the image data and printing conditions.

[0092] As explained above, according to the second embodiment, since multiple rendering images are changed in response to changes in the observation environment conditions, in addition to the same effects as the first embodiment, the user can more easily check how the printed image looks according to the observation environment conditions.

[0093] In the second embodiment, the observation environment conditions are changed in response to user operations from the control unit 13, but the observation environment conditions may also be changed automatically without user operation.

[0094] Furthermore, the descriptions in each of the above embodiments are examples of the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, and are not limited thereto. The detailed configuration and detailed operation of each part constituting the apparatus can also be appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0095] For example, in each of the embodiments described above, the client, such as a designer, selects a rendering image from among multiple displayed rendering images that results in the desired finished product. However, the person who selects one of the rendering images from among multiple rendering images does not necessarily have to be the creator of the image data; the person who has the authority to decide on the final finish of the printed material may make the selection.

[0096] Furthermore, the display destination for multiple rendering images is not limited to the display means (display unit 12) provided by the information processing device 10, but may also be an external display device. If the designer is in a different location from the printing contractor (printing company), such as their workplace or home, the multiple rendering images may be displayed on a display device available to the designer. In this case, the control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 transmits display data for displaying multiple rendering images to the external display device via the communication unit 14, and receives information indicating the selected rendering image on the external display device. However, in this case, it is assumed that the colors of the images displayed on the external display device are adjusted to match as closely as possible to the printed material printed and decorated by the printing press 20.

[0097] Furthermore, each process performed in the information processing device 10 may be shared among multiple devices that constitute the information processing system.

[0098] In the embodiments described above, foil stamping and varnishing were the main methods of decorative printing, but a preview of the printed material may also be displayed for decorative printing methods such as thick-layer printing, spot color printing, lamination, and embossing. Thick-layer printing is a printing method that raises certain areas by using clear ink or clear toner in specific locations. Spot color printing is a printing method that uses pigments or dyes with a color gamut that cannot be expressed with so-called process colors (4C). Lamination is a processing method that involves bonding a film to a printed material. Embossing is a processing method that involves placing paper between a concave mold and a convex mold and applying pressure to raise the image.

[0099] The computer-readable medium used to store the programs for executing each process is not limited to the examples above; portable recording media can also be used. Furthermore, a carrier wave may be used as the medium for providing program data via a communication line. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 10 Information Processing Devices 11 Control Unit 12 Display section 13 Control section 14 Communications Department 15 Storage section 20 Printing machine 121 Rendered image display screen 122 Rendered image display screen 123 Rendered image display screen 124 Rendered image display screen 151 Texture adjustment information

Claims

1. An information processing device that displays a preview of a printed document, A means for acquiring image data to be printed, A generation means that generates a plurality of rendering images from the image data, corresponding to each piece of texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each piece of texture adjustment information, based on texture adjustment information that associates printing conditions with printing conditions, A display control means for displaying a plurality of rendered images generated by the generation means on a display means, An information processing device characterized by comprising:

2. A receiving means for receiving the selection of any rendering image from among a plurality of rendering images displayed on the display means, A determination means for determining the printing conditions for the image data to be the printing conditions corresponding to the selected rendering image, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by comprising:

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display control means causes the image data and the plurality of rendered images to be displayed on the display means simultaneously.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the printing conditions include image material information or printer setting information.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the printing press setting information includes at least the thickness of the decorative layer.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the aforementioned image material information includes at least one of a substrate or a decorative material.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the decorative material includes varnish or foil material.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the aforementioned texture information includes data on reflective properties.

9. The aforementioned texture adjustment information is pre-stored in multiple storage means, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the generation means generates the plurality of rendering images based on the plurality of texture adjustment information stored in the storage means.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the generation means generates the plurality of rendering images from the image data based on observation environment conditions indicating the environment in which the printed material is observed, in addition to the texture adjustment information.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the observation environment conditions include angle setting information or light source information in a virtual space when displaying the plurality of rendering images.

12. The information processing device according to claim 11, characterized in that the light source information includes standard light source information as defined by the CIE, or measured light source information measured by the user.

13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the measurement light source information is a spectral spectrum in the visible light region.

14. The information processing device according to claim 11, characterized in that the angle setting information is the angle of incidence of the light source to the object and the observation angle of the observer.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a second acquisition means for acquiring the aforementioned observation environment conditions.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the generation means changes the plurality of rendering images in response to a change in the observation environment conditions.

17. An information processing method for displaying a preview of a printed document, The acquisition process involves obtaining image data to be printed, A generation step of generating multiple rendering images from image data, corresponding to each piece of texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each piece of texture adjustment information, based on texture adjustment information that associates printing conditions with the texture information of the printed material to be printed by said printing conditions, A display control step which causes a plurality of rendering images generated in the generation step to be displayed on a display means, An information processing method characterized by including

18. An information processing system that displays a preview of printed materials, A means for acquiring image data to be printed, A generation means that generates a plurality of rendering images from the image data, corresponding to each piece of texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each piece of texture adjustment information, based on texture adjustment information that associates printing conditions with printing conditions, A display control means for displaying a plurality of rendered images generated by the generation means on a display means, An information processing system characterized by comprising the following features.

19. A computer in an information processing device that displays a preview of printed materials, means for acquiring image data to be printed, A generation means that generates a plurality of rendering images from the image data, corresponding to each piece of texture information associated with the printing conditions included in each piece of texture adjustment information, based on texture adjustment information that associates printing conditions with the texture information of the printed material printed by those printing conditions. A display control means that causes a plurality of rendered images generated by the generation means to be displayed on a display means, A program designed to function as such.

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