JP3942528B2 - Image processing apparatus, image processing method, program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, a program, and a recording medium, such as a printer, a digital copying machine, a facsimile, a multi-function image processing apparatus, and an MFP (multifunction printer).
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, for example, Patent Document 1 shows an example of executing image processing of a digital copying machine using a digital signal processor (DSP).
[0003]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2000-165563 A
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The applicant of the present application further filed an application relating to an image processing apparatus that downloads an image processing program via a network, executes the image processing program by a digital signal processor (DSP), and performs image processing as a prior application of the present application. ing.
[0005]
However, in the invention of this prior application, there is a limit on the executable program size depending on the scale of the digital signal processor (DSP), and when the downloaded program scale is large, the number of instructions for causing the DSP to execute processing is a predetermined numerical value. As a result, the original performance (copy speed) could not be obtained, or the number of FIFOs and registers was insufficient and processing could not be performed.
[0006]
In the invention of the prior application, when the extended image processing program downloaded via the network is installed, it is determined whether the image processing apparatus can operate the image processing program, and whether to transfer the program. Judgment is made. In other words, whether or not the user can use the program is determined depending on whether or not the mountable hardware is in the image processing apparatus.
[0007]
An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, a program, and a recording medium that can process even a large-scale processing content.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is provided.TomorrowTo the input image signalImage processing moduleImage processing means for performing image processing in accordance withSaidStorage means for storing image signals output from the image processing means;SaidA printer path for reading the image signal stored in the storage means and outputting it to the subsequent stage;SaidA re-input path for reading out the image signal stored in the storage means and inputting it again into the image processing means.An image processing apparatus,
A selection unit that selects a required image processing module from a plurality of image processing modules based on a designated image processing mode, and the image processing unit performs all processing of the image processing module group selected by the selection unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not the image processing module can be executed in a single process, and when the image processing unit can execute all the processes of the image processing module group selected by the selection unit in one process Outputs the stored image signal to the printer path and performs all the processing by the image processing means. If it is impossible to execute the processing in a single process, the stored image signal is input again. In addition to outputting to the path, the selected image processing module group is grouped into a plurality of groups, and the grouped image processing modules are rewritten each time. Performs processing separately in time, and outputs to the printer path After predetermined processing is completedIt is characterized by that.
[0011]
  Also,Claim 2DescribedTomorrow, Claims1In the image processing apparatus described,The image processing moduleIsSaidThe image processing apparatus can be downloaded by communication means.
[0012]
  Also,Claim 3DescribedTomorrow,Claim 2In the described image processing apparatus,The image processing moduleAttached information including any number of instructions, number of required FIFOs, number of necessary registers, version informationSaidIn the image processing deviceSaidIt is characterized in that it can be downloaded simultaneously by communication means.
[0013]
  Also,Claim 4DescribedTomorrow,Claim 1In the image processing apparatus described,in frontThe determination as to whether or not processing can be executed in a single process by the image processing means is made based on information on the number of necessary instructions, the number of necessary FIFOs, and the number of necessary registers of the selected image processing module. Yes.
[0014]
  Also,Claim 5DescribedTomorrow,Claim 1In the image processing apparatus described above, whether or not the image signal being processed is compressed and stored before being stored in the storage means, or what compression method or compression rate is used for compression. The control is based on the contents of the image processing to which the image signal is applied.
[0015]
  Also,Claim 6DescribedTomorrow,Claim 5In the described image processing apparatus,SaidWhen the image signal is accumulated a plurality of times in the accumulation means, the preceding stage is characterized in that the image signal with less compression deterioration is accumulated.
[0016]
  Also,Claim 7DescribedTomorrow, Claims1In the case of an image processing apparatus, when a plurality of in-process images generated and accumulated in one image processing process are stored without being deleted even after the image processing job is completed, and there is an image processing request for the same image again The image processing apparatus is characterized in that an optimum image is extracted from the halfway processing images accumulated in the previous processing and the remaining processing is performed.
[0017]
  Also,Claim 8DescribedTomorrow, Claims 1 toClaim 7In the image processing apparatus according to any one of the above, it is possible to add hardware, and by adding the hardware, all processes can be performed in one process.
[0018]
  Also,Claim 9DescribedTomorrow,Claim 1In the image processing apparatus described, when the operation of outputting the accumulated image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing content is sufficient to complete the processing within a predetermined time and has the highest image quality. It is characterized by controlling the optimization or addition of processing contents so that processing results can be obtained.
[0019]
  Also,Claim 10DescribedTomorrow,Claim 9In the image processing apparatus described, when the operation of outputting the accumulated image signal to the re-input path is selected,SaidPerform processing to identify image features for one page before storage by image processing means,SaidWhen the image is processed by the image processing means, processing according to the image feature identification result is performed.
[0020]
  Also,Claim 11DescribedTomorrow, Claims 1 toClaim 10In the image processing apparatus according to any one of the above, an external device image signal input from a network or an external device is stored in the storage unit,SaidThe image signal stored in the storage means is output to the re-input path to process the external device image signal.
[0021]
  Also,Claim 12DescribedTomorrow,Image processing means for performing image processing on the input image signal in accordance with an image processing module; storage means for storing the image signal output from the image processing means; reading out the image signal stored in the storage means; A printer path for outputting to the image processing apparatus, and a re-input path for reading the image signal stored in the storage unit and inputting it again to the image processing unit.Select the required image processing module based on the specified image processing mode, and perform all the processing of the selected image processing module group.SaidIt is determined whether or not the image processing means can be executed in a single process, and all the processes of the selected image processing module group are performed.SaidWhen the image processing means can be executed in one process, the accumulated image signal is output to the printer path.SaidWhen all the processing is performed by the image processing means and the execution of the processing is impossible, the accumulated image signal is output to the re-input path, and the selected image processing modules are grouped into a plurality of sets. Separate image processing moduleLeEach time it is rewritten, the process is divided into a plurality of times, and when a predetermined process is completed, it is output to the printer path.
[0022]
  Also,Claim 13DescribedTomorrow,Image processing means for performing image processing on the input image signal in accordance with an image processing module; storage means for storing the image signal output from the image processing means; reading out the image signal stored in the storage means; A printer path for outputting to the image processing apparatus, and a re-input path for reading the image signal stored in the storage unit and inputting it again to the image processing unit.Select the required image processing module based on the specified image processing mode, and perform all the processing of the selected image processing module group.SaidIt is determined whether or not the image processing means can be executed in a single process, and all the processes of the selected image processing module group are performed.SaidWhen the image processing means can be executed in one process, the accumulated image signal is output to the printer path.SaidWhen all the processing is performed by the image processing means and the execution of the processing is impossible, the accumulated image signal is output to the re-input path, and the selected image processing modules are grouped into a plurality of sets. Separate image processing moduleLeThis is a program for causing a computer to execute a process divided into a plurality of times by rewriting each time and to output to a printer path when a predetermined process is completed.
[0023]
  Also,Claim 14DescribedTomorrow,Image processing means for performing image processing on the input image signal in accordance with an image processing module; storage means for storing the image signal output from the image processing means; reading out the image signal stored in the storage means; A printer path for outputting to the image processing apparatus, and a re-input path for reading the image signal stored in the storage unit and inputting it again to the image processing unit.Select the required image processing module based on the specified image processing mode, and perform all the processing of the selected image processing module group.SaidIt is determined whether or not the image processing means can be executed in a single process, and all the processes of the selected image processing module group are performed.SaidWhen the image processing means can be executed in one process, the accumulated image signal is output to the printer path.SaidWhen all the processing is performed by the image processing means and the execution of the processing is impossible, the accumulated image signal is output to the re-input path, and the selected image processing modules are grouped into a plurality of sets. Separate image processing moduleLeThis is a computer-readable recording medium that records a program for performing a process in multiple times by rewriting each time, and causing a computer to execute a process of outputting to a printer path when a predetermined process is completed.
[0024]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0025]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, this image processing apparatus 1 includes a CPU 3 for controlling the whole, an EEPROM 2, a ROM 4, a RAM 7, an image input means 5 such as a scanner for inputting an image signal, and an image process for the image signal. Are provided with a digital signal processor (DSP) 6, a printer 8, a NIC (Network Interface Card) 9, and storage means 10 for storing image signals subjected to image processing.
[0026]
In the configuration example of FIG. 1, the image signal input by the image input means 5 is input to the DSP 6 for performing desired image processing. The DSP 6 has, for example, a SIMD (Single Instruction Multiple Data Stream) type architecture having a performance for performing image processing of a digital copying machine. This architecture is characterized in that a plurality of processors are executed with the same instruction, and a high processing speed can be obtained.
[0027]
When a certain image processing mode is selected by an operation unit (not shown), the CPU 3 reads an image processing program module corresponding to the selected image processing mode from the ROM 4 and stores it in the RAM 7.
[0028]
Here, the ROM 4 stores various modules as shown in FIG. That is, in the example of FIG. 2, the ROM 4 stores a scanner γ correction module 17, filter processing modules 18 to 19, a line width correction module 20, printer γ correction modules 21 to 23, halftone processing modules 24 to 25, and the like. ing. Among these, the module corresponding to the selected image processing mode is stored in the RAM 7. For example, in the character mode, five modules are selected and stored in the RAM 7 as shown in FIG. Similarly, in the character photo mode, five modules as shown in FIG. 4 are selected, and in the photo mode, four modules as shown in FIG. 5 are selected and stored in the RAM 7.
[0029]
In the DSP 6, image processing is sequentially performed on the image signal in accordance with the contents of the RAM 7, and when all processing is completed, the processed image signal is output to the storage unit 10. The storage means 10 outputs image data to the printer 8 in parallel with the operation of inputting the image signal from the DSP 6, and executes the printing operation. In other words, output to the printer is performed before storing one image. In general, this configuration realizes an image processing apparatus with a high copy speed that performs real-time image processing and obtains a copy output at the same time as the copy button is pressed.
[0030]
In addition, since the image processing apparatus 1 is provided with a NIC (Network Interface Card) 9, it is possible to communicate image data with the outside and to download an image processing module. In other words, the NIC 9 can access the server 12 that provides the image processing module through the data communication network 11 such as the Internet, whereby the user can access the extended image processing module provided by the manufacturer from the server 12 to the image processing apparatus. 1 can be downloaded.
[0031]
For example, the show-through removal module program can be downloaded as an extended image processing module serviced by the manufacturer. The program downloaded in this manner is stored in an EEPROM (nonvolatile memory) 2, and when the user designates image processing using the extended processing module by an operation panel (not shown) or the like, the CPU 3 reads the EEPROM 2. Is read out and stored in the RAM 7.
[0032]
However, when the expanded processing module is added, the CPU 3 determines whether the DSP 6 can complete the processing for each pixel within a predetermined time, and determines which processing module is stored in the RAM 7. When the extended processing module is downloaded, in addition to the processing program main body, additional information such as the function, the number of instructions, the number of necessary FIFOs, the number of registers, the version, and which processing cannot be combined is downloaded simultaneously. The CPU 3 calculates the total number of instructions from these pieces of information, and determines whether all processes can be stored in the RAM 7 and whether the default copy speed of the image processing apparatus 1 can be satisfied. The number of FIFOs (line memories) and registers in the DSP 6 is finite, and it is not known whether all the processes can be executed by the DSP 6 in one process (hereinafter referred to as one turn). The processing by the DSP 6 is the same as the processing by software, and the processing speed is determined by the number of instructions. Therefore, if the processing module has a large processing scale, the processing is not completed within a predetermined time, and the system cannot be operated. is there. Therefore, management of the processing module is necessary.
[0033]
Processing module management by the CPU 3 will be described with reference to FIG. Referring to FIG. 6, the CPU 3 selects a necessary processing module based on the image processing mode instructed by the means for instructing the image processing mode such as an operation panel (step s1). Then, the total number of instructions of all these processing modules, the total value of FIFO, and the like are calculated (step s2). Then, it is determined whether the total number of instructions is equal to or less than the prescribed number of instructions, and whether the total number of FIFOs does not exceed the number of FIFOs held by the DSP 6. It is determined whether the copy speed can be satisfied (step s3).
[0034]
If it is determined that it is satisfactory, all the selected processing modules are set as one processing module group (step s4).
[0035]
On the other hand, when it is determined in step s3 that it is not satisfactory, the processing modules are grouped into a plurality of processing module groups (step s5). In this grouping, each group is divided so as to have system feasibility. For example, when the show-through removal module is downloaded from the server and selected to operate in the character mode, the processing module group necessary for all the processes is as shown on the left side of FIG. However, the show-through module is a program that refers to a relatively wide image area, and the number of FIFOs is insufficient to perform all the processing in one turn (one processing). When the determination is made in this way, the six modules are grouped into two module groups, three by three, as shown on the right side of FIG.
[0036]
Next, the module group program to be processed first is read from the ROM 4 and the EEPROM 2 and stored in the RAM 7 (step s6). Here, it is recognized whether there is another module group to be processed (step s7). If there is no module group to be processed, the output path from the storage means 10 is set as the printer path (step s9), and the DSP 6 The process is executed (step s11), and the process is terminated.
[0037]
On the other hand, if there is another module group to be processed in step s7, the output path from the storage means 10 is set as a re-input path (step s8), and the processing of the corresponding processing module is executed by the DSP 6 ( For example, if it is the first turn, the process of the first module group is executed) (step s10), and the process returns to step s6 again.
[0038]
In this case, in step s6, a program corresponding to the module group to be processed next is newly read into the RAM 7, the same processing is repeated, and loop processing is repeatedly performed until there is no module group to be processed.
[0039]
In step s8 and s9, the output path is set as the re-input path and the printer path, respectively. This indicates the re-input path A and the printer path B in FIG.
[0040]
As described above, in the processing example of FIG. 6, when the DSP 6 determines that the processing cannot be executed in one turn (one processing), the image signal that has been processed halfway is temporarily stored in the storage means 10 and then again. Re-input to the DSP 6 and the remaining processing is executed in the second processing by the DSP 6. By repeating this, a program with a large processing scale can be executed without adding hardware. However, at this time, the copy speed of the main body of the image processing apparatus cannot be realized, but this is inevitable.
[0041]
By the way, the reason why the processing by one turn (one processing) cannot be realized by adding the extended processing module is that the number of processing instructions and the number of FIFOs are exceeded. 8 can be handled by providing an appropriate input buffer 25 between the image input means 5 and the DSP 6 as shown in FIG. When the reading speed by the image input means 5 is faster than the processing speed by the DSP 6 and the reading operation cannot be stopped halfway, the input buffer 25 can be provided as described above. The cost increases by adding 25, which is not a good idea. On the other hand, it is expensive to temporarily store the post-DSP data as shown in the present invention and provide a path for returning the data before the DSP, and to perform subsequent image processing on the re-input image data. This is an effective method that can cope with exceeding the number of instructions and exceeding the number of FIFOs.
[0042]
In the above-described example, the number of instructions and the number of FIFOs are added, and based on the addition result, it is determined whether or not the original copy speed can be obtained. You may comprise so that it may determine based on a table.
[0043]
As described above, the image processing apparatus of the present invention basically includes an image processing unit that performs image processing on an input image signal according to an image processing program by an image processing element, and an image signal output from the image processing unit. Storage means for storing image data, a printer path for reading the image signal stored in the storage means and outputting it to the subsequent stage, and a re-input path for reading the image signal stored in the storage means and inputting it again to the image processing means. Have. That is, the present invention is based on a configuration having a re-input path.
[0044]
According to the present invention, in addition to the above basic configuration, a selection unit that selects a necessary image processing module based on a designated image processing mode, and an image processing module group selected by the selection unit are configured in the current image processing device configuration. The image processing apparatus further includes a determination unit that determines whether or not image processing can be performed. If the image processing cannot be performed, the user is notified of the fact.
[0045]
According to the present invention, in addition to the basic configuration described above, a selection unit that selects a necessary image processing module based on a designated image processing mode, and all processes of the image processing module group selected by the selection unit are processed by the image processing. Determination means for determining whether or not the means can be executed in one process (one turn), and the image processing means performs one process for all the processes of the image processing module group selected by the selection means. If it is possible to execute the process, the accumulated image signal is output to the printer path and all processing is performed by the image processing means. The signal is output to the re-input path, the selected image processing module group is grouped into a plurality of groups, and a program corresponding to the grouped image processing module is Performs processing a plurality of times by rewriting, and outputs it to the printer path After predetermined processing is completed.
[0046]
In the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the image processing program can be downloaded into the image processing apparatus by communication means. In addition to the image processing program, incidental information including any of the number of instructions, the number of necessary FIFOs, the number of necessary registers, and version information can be downloaded simultaneously.
[0047]
Also, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the determination means determines whether or not image processing can be executed in the current image processing apparatus configuration, or determines whether or not the image processing means can execute processing in one turn (one process). , Based on the number of necessary instructions, the number of necessary FIFOs, and the number of necessary registers of the selected image processing module.
[0048]
By the way, when storing image data in the storage means 10, there is a demand to compress the amount of image data so that more image data can be stored. However, if the image is compressed at a very high compression rate upstream of a series of processing procedures, significant image quality degradation occurs. In general, image data accumulation during processing applies uncompressed or a compression method with a low compression rate upstream of the processing, and image data accumulation at the end of processing or at the end of processing uses a compression method with a high compression rate. This makes it possible to construct a system that balances the number of images that can be stored and the image quality.
[0049]
It is also effective to determine the compression rate according to what processing has been performed so far when accumulating image data, and the content of the processing. For example, if there is image quality degradation due to compression before the enhancement filter process, the degradation becomes very noticeable due to the enhancement filter process, which is not preferable. In the example of the character photograph mode shown in FIG. 4, processing with a high compression ratio before the enhancement filter causes a large deterioration in image quality. However, when temporarily storing after the smoothing filter, compression with a considerably high compression ratio is performed. Even if the method is applied, there is no significant image quality degradation.
[0050]
It is also effective to control the compression rate by the selected module. In processing that performs control based on the edge amount, for example, filtering processing based on the edge amount, BG / UCR processing, halftone processing, and the like, image quality deteriorates if the edge amount is degraded. In such a case, the image at the time of calculating the edge amount is assumed to have a relatively low compression rate so that deterioration due to compression is reduced, and a higher compression rate is used for subsequent accumulation. It is also effective to optimize the compression method.
[0051]
In addition, in the information attached to each processing module, if the required data for the input image is described as the premise data to be processed, the required quality for the input image is described. The compression means to be selected when using the can be easily selected.
[0052]
As described above, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, before storing the image signal being processed in the storage means, whether or not the image signal is compressed and stored, or any compression method or It is good to control whether to compress at the compression rate based on the contents of image processing to which the image signal is applied.
[0053]
Further, in this case, when accumulating a plurality of times in the accumulating means, it is preferable to accumulate an image signal with less compression deterioration in the former stage.
[0054]
In addition, the image once accumulated during the process is not necessary when the next process is completed. However, the image is accumulated and stored without being erased, and there is a request for re-copy output later, and the image density is changed. When there is a process change command such as the above, it is possible to increase the efficiency and speed of the process by taking out the optimum image from the stored mid-process image and performing the process.
[0055]
In other words, a plurality of in-process images generated and accumulated in one image processing process are stored without being deleted even after the image processing job is completed, and when there is an image processing request for the same image again, By extracting an optimal image from the mid-process images accumulated in the processing and performing the remaining processing, the processing can be made more efficient and faster.
[0056]
With the configuration as described above, an additional extended function can be provided to the user without imposing a cost burden, but there is a problem that the copy speed is reduced. In order to solve this, as shown in FIG. 9, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which an extended DSP 26 is added to the front stage of the DSP 6. Specifically, in the case of processing that is very sophisticated such as the show-through removal function but the processing speed is slow, it is not convenient to continue using it at this speed, so an extended DSP 26 is added as shown in FIG. Thus, the processing power can be increased, so that a high function can be obtained while satisfying the original copy speed.
[0057]
As described above, in the configuration example of FIG. 9, a user who rarely uses a function such as show-through removal uses a high-performance module while using the high-performance module with the default hardware configuration. A user who wants speed can be provided with an option that this can be realized by adding an extended DSP.
[0058]
Further, the following charging system can be configured. In other words, when the extended image processing program is used for copy output, the charge fee may be set higher reflecting the charge fee per sheet as the use fee, or the program itself may be priced. good.
[0059]
Also, being able to provide image processing by downloading is very convenient. For example, when a bug in a program is corrected, the latest program can be easily provided to the user, and when an upgraded program is completed. Is the same. It is also effective in providing a program that more closely matches the needs of users by downloading and using a program at the development stage before release and conducting a questionnaire. As for distribution / collection of questionnaires, the user needs may be grasped by outputting a questionnaire form from the image processing apparatus or reading the completed form into the image processing apparatus and collecting it via a network.
[0060]
As described above, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, hardware can be added, and all processing can be performed in one turn (one process) by adding hardware.
[0061]
1 shows an example in which processing is performed by a single DSP. As shown in FIG. 10, a first DSP 6 and a second DSP 27 are provided, and the storage means 10 is provided between them. You may comprise so that it may have. The configuration example of FIG. 10 is convenient when the copying operation is performed and the data stored in the storage unit 10 is to be transferred to the outside via the NIC 9. The image to be transferred is a signal read by a scanner, an image signal after filter processing, data after halftone processing, and various depending on the user's request. By doing so, it is possible to output a copy image and transfer a desired processing result image in one turn (one process). This is because, for example, when it is desired to transfer the image signal after the filter processing, the processing module group is configured so that the processing up to the filtering processing is performed by the first DSP 6 and the processing after the filtering processing is performed by the second DSP 27. Distribute. If it is desired to transfer an image after halftone processing, the first DSP 6 performs halftone processing, and the second DSP 27 does nothing (through) and outputs the image after halftone processing. This can be realized by distributing the processing module group. Of course, this can be realized without using a DSP, and it is only necessary to serially arrange two pieces of hardware such as ASIC that can perform a series of processing, and to control which processing is executed by each chip. This is uneconomical because it must have a processing module with the same function. On the other hand, if a DSP is used, since it is programmable, there is no such inconvenience.
[0062]
In each of the examples described above, an example in which everything is configured by a DSP has been shown, but a part thereof may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC. For example, an image area separation circuit or the like that requires a very large number of line memories may be preferably realized by an ASIC from the viewpoint of cost.
[0063]
By the way, as described above, when an extended processing module is added and processing cannot be executed in one turn (one processing), the processing is performed by using a re-input path by grouping into a plurality of module groups. It is as follows. However, when modules are grouped into a plurality of groups, each group has a large margin in the number of FIFOs and the number of instructions, and there may be a surplus of processing capacity that can incorporate other processes. In such a case, a module having an additional different function can be added, or the module itself can be replaced with a higher performance module. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, when a show-through removal module is added as an expansion module to the character mode module group, processing cannot be performed in one turn (one process), and two sets of module groups (first and first modules) 2 modules). However, since the number of FIFOs and instructions remain, for effective use, the emphasis filter module 18 is replaced with a higher-performance moire suppression type emphasis filter module 28 in the first module group, and isolated points are removed in the second module group. Module 29 is newly added. With this configuration, it is possible to construct an image processing system that takes full advantage of the DSP processing capability.
[0064]
In addition, when replacing or adding a module, the user is notified of this, and only when there is an instruction from the user, the replacement / addition processing is performed.
[0065]
As described above, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when the operation of outputting the stored image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing content is sufficient to complete the processing within a predetermined time, In addition, the optimization or addition of processing contents can be controlled so that the processing result with the highest image quality can be obtained.
[0066]
As the function to be added, a function for performing image feature identification for one page such as ACS (Auto Color Select) and automatic background removal can be very easily performed. ACS is a process for determining whether a document is a monochrome document or a color document, and is a popular process for reproducing with a single black toner or color reproduction using all toners of CMYK according to the determination result. However, this can be done by pre-scanning in advance to detect if there is a color part in one page of the image, or by accumulating one page of the image once for ACS and detecting if there is a color part. Generally, the process is started after the determination.
[0067]
In the present invention, since the extended processing module is added, if the processing cannot be executed in one turn (one time processing), the storage means is temporarily stored in any case. Suitable for performing image feature identification over one page. The result may be stored once, and the processing corresponding to the identification result may be performed when the image processing unit processes the image after accumulation again. As described above, it is possible to easily execute processing such as ACS, which is difficult to realize in the case of normal one-turn processing, and contribute to higher image quality.
[0068]
As described above, when the operation of outputting the stored image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing unit identifies the image feature for one page before the storage, and the image processing unit stores the image signal after the storage. By performing processing according to the image feature identification result when processing the image, it is possible to easily execute processing such as ACS, which is difficult to realize in the case of normal one-turn processing, Can contribute to
[0069]
In the above-described example, an example is shown in which processing is performed on an image input from an image input unit such as a scanner. However, processing may be performed on an image obtained from a network. In this case, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 9, the image input from the LAN or the data communication network is stored in the storage means 10 via the NIC 9, and is output from the storage means 10 to the re-input path A and output by the DSP. Processing is performed. That is, image data input from a network or an external device cannot be controlled in real time by the image processing apparatus due to restrictions on network communication speed, traffic, and transfer rate on the transmission device side. Needed to accumulate. In the present invention, it is easy to store the image data from the network in the storage means 10, and there is a path for re-inputting the image data from the storage means 10 to the previous stage of the DSP. It is also easy to handle.
[0070]
As described above, according to the present invention, the external device image signal input from the network or the external device is stored in the storage unit 10, and the image signal stored in the storage unit 10 is output to the re-input path to output the external device image. The signal can be processed.
[0071]
As described above, according to the present invention, even if the program has a large processing scale, the processed image from the DSP is temporarily stored in the storage means, a new program is downloaded, and the subsequent processing is executed based on the downloaded program. By repeating the download, process execution, and storage until the process is completed, the process cannot be executed even if the copy speed is reduced.
[0072]
Furthermore, when it is required to satisfy both a high function and a high copy speed based on the image processing contents expanded by the user, the request can be met by adding hardware.
[0073]
In addition, image quality degradation is reduced as much as possible by optimizing the compression method when image accumulation is repeated over a plurality of turns.
[0074]
Further, when the image processing job is divided into a plurality of turns and processing capacity of the DSP is sufficient in each processing turn, the processing in the processing turn is optimized so as to effectively use the processing capacity.
[0075]
The present invention has been described above using an image processor having an SIMD type architecture as an example of image processing means. However, the image processing means may be an image processor having an SISD type or MIMD type architecture, and the like. In addition, software processing by PLD (Programmable Logic Device), which is programmable hardware represented by FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or CPU (general-purpose processor) may be used. It is included in the scope of the present invention.
[0076]
In addition, the above-described image processing of the present invention can be provided in the form of a program that causes a computer (for example, CPU 3) to realize the image processing.
[0077]
A program for causing a computer (for example, the CPU 3) to implement the above-described image processing of the present invention can be provided in the form of, for example, a software package (specifically, a recording medium such as a CD-ROM).
[0078]
In other words, the image processing apparatus of the present invention also has a configuration in which a general-purpose computer system reads a program recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM and causes the microprocessor of the general-purpose computer system to execute processing. It is possible to implement. In this case, a program for executing the processing of the present invention (that is, a program used in the hardware system) is provided in a state recorded on a medium. The recording medium on which the program and the like are recorded is not limited to the CD-ROM, and a ROM, RAM, flexible disk, memory card, or the like may be used. The program recorded on the medium is installed in a storage device incorporated in the hardware system, for example, a hard disk, and is activated to execute the program, thereby realizing the processing of the present invention.
[0079]
【The invention's effect】
  As explained above, claim 1To claim 14.According to the described invention, the image processing unit that performs image processing on the input image signal according to the image processing program by the image processing element, the storage unit that stores the image signal output from the image processing unit, and the storage unit Since it has a printer path for reading out the stored image signal and outputting it to the subsequent stage, and a re-input path for reading out the image signal stored in the storage means and inputting it again into the image processing means (that is, programmable) Image processing using a simple image processing processor (DSP), having a re-input path for temporarily storing output from the DSP, inputting the stored data to the DSP again, and a printer path for outputting to subsequent processing Therefore, when a high-functional image processing program is added according to the user's request, it is possible to process even a large-scale processing content Rukoto can.
[0081]
  In particular, claims 2 and 3According to the described invention, since the image processing program can be downloaded by the communication means, the user can easily obtain the latest high-performance image processing function via the network.
[0082]
  Also,Claims 5 and 6According to the described invention, before storing the image signal being processed in the storage means, whether or not the image signal is compressed and stored, or what compression method or compression rate is used for compression. Since control is performed based on the contents of image processing to which the image signal is applied, high-quality image reproduction with little image quality degradation can be performed.
[0083]
  Also,Claim 7According to the described invention, when a plurality of in-process images generated and accumulated in one image processing process are stored without being erased even after the image processing job is completed and the same image processing request is made again, Since the optimum image is extracted from the stored mid-process image and the remaining processing is performed, the processing can be made more efficient and faster.
[0084]
  Also,Claim 8According to the described invention, it is possible to add hardware, and all the processing can be performed in one process by adding the hardware, so it meets the needs of users who require high functionality and high speed. can do.
[0085]
  Also,Claim 9According to the described invention, when the operation of outputting the accumulated image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing content is sufficient to complete the processing within a predetermined time, and the highest image quality is obtained. Since the optimization or addition of the processing content is controlled so that the processing result can be obtained, if the DSP has sufficient processing capacity in each processing turn, the processing in the processing turn is optimized. The processing capacity can be utilized to the maximum.
[0086]
  Also,Claim 10According to the described invention, when the operation of outputting the stored image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing unit performs processing for identifying image features for one page before storage, and the image processing unit When processing is performed on the image after storage by the above, processing according to the identification result of the image feature is performed, so ACS (Auto Color Select) is difficult to realize in the case of normal one-turn processing. Etc. can be executed easily, contributing to higher image quality.
[0087]
  Also,Claim 11According to the described invention, an external device image signal input from a network or an external device is stored in the storage means, and the external device image signal is processed by outputting the stored image signal to a re-input path. Therefore, it is easy to store the image data from the network in the storage means, and there is a path for re-inputting the image data from the storage means to the previous stage of the DSP. Data can also be easily processed.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of various modules stored in a ROM.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of module selection in a character mode.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of module selection in a character photo mode.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of module selection in the case of a photo mode.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining management of a processing module by a CPU.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a processing operation when a module is added.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a processing operation when a module is added or replaced.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Image processing device
2 EEPROM
3 CPU
4 ROM
5 Image input means
6 DSP
7 RAM
8 Printer
9 NIC
10 Accumulation means
11 Data communication network
12 servers
13 LAN
14 Scanner
15 MFP
16 Printer
26 Extended DSP
27 Second DSP

Claims (14)

Image processing means for performing image processing according to the image processing module against the input image signal, means for storing the image signal outputted from the image processing unit reads out image signals stored in said storage means, a subsequent stage An image processing apparatus having a printer path to be output to and a re-input path for reading out an image signal stored in the storage means and inputting the image signal again to the image processing means ,
A selection unit that selects a required image processing module from a plurality of image processing modules based on a designated image processing mode, and the image processing unit performs all processing of the image processing module group selected by the selection unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not the image processing module can be executed in a single process, and when the image processing unit can execute all the processes of the image processing module group selected by the selection unit in one process Outputs the stored image signal to the printer path and performs all the processing by the image processing means. If it is impossible to execute the processing in a single process, the stored image signal is input again. In addition to outputting to the path, the selected image processing module group is grouped into a plurality of groups, and the grouped image processing modules are rewritten each time. Performs processing separately in time, the image processing device and outputting to a printer path After predetermined processing is completed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 Symbol placement, the image processing module image processing apparatus characterized by being made available for download by the communication unit in the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, together with the image processing module, instructions number, required FIFO number, the number of required registers, downloadable simultaneously by said communication means supplementary information including a version information to the image processing apparatus An image processing apparatus characterized by the above. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing execution determination in one treatment with pre-Symbol image processing means need instruction number of the selected image processing modules, necessary FIFO number, based on the required number of registers information, An image processing apparatus characterized by being made. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein before the image signal being processed is stored in the storage means, whether or not the image signal is compressed and stored, or at any compression method or compression rate. An image processing apparatus that controls whether or not to perform image processing based on image processing contents to which the image signal is applied. 6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein when the image signal is stored a plurality of times in the storage means, an image signal with less compression deterioration is stored in the former stage. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 Symbol placement, after a plurality of intermediate processing image image processing job completes the generated accumulated in one of the image processing processes even to keep without erasing, there is an image processing request for the same image again In this case, the image processing apparatus is characterized in that an optimum image is extracted from the halfway processing images accumulated in the previous processing and the remaining processing is performed. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein hardware can be added, and all processing can be performed in one process by adding the hardware. An image processing apparatus. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the operation of outputting the accumulated image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing content is sufficient to complete the processing within a predetermined time, and most An image processing apparatus characterized in that optimization or addition of processing contents is controlled so that a high-quality processing result can be obtained. 10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein when the operation of outputting the accumulated image signal to the re-input path is selected, the image processing means performs a process of identifying image features for one page before accumulation. an image processing apparatus characterized in that it is in which processes the image after accumulation, to perform a process corresponding to the identification result of the image feature by the image processing means. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, an external device image signal input from the network or external device, the stored in the storage means, the stored image signal to said storage means An image processing apparatus characterized in that an external device image signal is processed by outputting to a re-input path. Image processing means for performing image processing on the input image signal in accordance with an image processing module; storage means for storing the image signal output from the image processing means; reading out the image signal stored in the storage means; And a re-input path for reading out the image signal stored in the storage means and inputting it again into the image processing means, a necessary image based on the designated image processing mode is provided. select processing module determines whether the executable by the image processing means single treatment all processing of the image processing modules which are selected, the image processing all processing of the image processing modules which are selected lines all processing by the image processing unit together with the case means executable in a single process outputs the stored image signal to the printer path And, if not the execution of the process outputs the stored image signal to the re-input path, and grouping the image processing module selected in a plurality of sets, the image processing module that groupings An image processing method characterized in that processing is performed in a plurality of times by rewriting each time and output to a printer path when predetermined processing is completed. Image processing means for performing image processing on the input image signal in accordance with an image processing module; storage means for storing the image signal output from the image processing means; reading out the image signal stored in the storage means; And a re-input path for reading out the image signal stored in the storage means and inputting it again into the image processing means, a necessary image based on the designated image processing mode is provided. select processing module determines whether the executable by the image processing means single treatment all processing of the image processing modules which are selected, the image processing all processing of the image processing modules which are selected lines all processing by the image processing unit together with the case means executable in a single process outputs the stored image signal to the printer path And, if not the execution of the process outputs the stored image signal to the re-input path, and grouping the image processing module selected in a plurality of sets, the image processing module that groupings A program for causing a computer to execute processing divided into a plurality of times by rewriting each time and to output to a printer path when predetermined processing is completed. Image processing means for performing image processing on the input image signal in accordance with an image processing module; storage means for storing the image signal output from the image processing means; reading out the image signal stored in the storage means; And a re-input path for reading out the image signal stored in the storage means and inputting it again into the image processing means, a necessary image based on the designated image processing mode is provided. select processing module determines whether the executable by the image processing means single treatment all processing of the image processing modules which are selected, the image processing all processing of the image processing modules which are selected lines all processing by the image processing unit together with the case means executable in a single process outputs the stored image signal to the printer path And, if not the execution of the process outputs the stored image signal to the re-input path, and grouping the image processing module selected in a plurality of sets, the image processing module that groupings A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing processing in a plurality of times by rewriting each time, and causing a computer to execute processing for outputting to a printer path when predetermined processing is completed.

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