JP4136502B2 - Image input device, image processing method, storage medium, and program - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to image processing of an image input apparatus.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a system using a LAN (local area network) used in an office or the like is generally used as a system for connecting an image input device and an image output device to a network. This type of system is intended for an operator using a PC (personal computer) or WS (works station) connected on a LAN to input (scan) or output (printer) images or text information. It is configured.
[0003]
As an image input device and an image output device in such a system, a predetermined output image corresponding to the output device, such as a printer, a facsimile machine, a copying machine, etc., by performing various data conversions on the inputted multi-value image information Products using image processing technology that converts to data have been put into practical use.
[0004]
In this type of image input device and image output device, as a specific method for realizing image data processing desired by the user, a method of processing by software using a CPU such as a microcomputer and a processing algorithm are logic. There is a method of processing in hardware by using a circuit.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the system of the above configuration is mainly configured to use a PC (personal computer) or WS (workstation) connected on the LAN as a host device, and is connected to the LAN. However, it was not possible to demonstrate sufficient performance with respect to the combination between devices.
[0006]
In other words, each device can only perform image data processing depending on the software or hardware that each device has individually. For example, image input devices such as scanners and digital cameras and image outputs such as printers and fax machines. In a method in which devices are connected to each other via a network to form a multi-function device system, optimal data processing cannot be performed with a combination of image input devices and image output devices desired by the user, and the image quality desired by the user In some cases, the print output is far from that.
[0007]
Also, in the case of multi-function devices based on copiers (equipment with multiple functions such as copying, faxing, and printers), if the devices themselves are connected to the same model connected via a stand-alone or network Although it is possible to perform print output with the image quality desired by the user, it is still impossible to perform optimal data processing between different models connected via a network, and similar problems have occurred.
[0008]
The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to input an image using a part or all of a processing program acquired from a specified image output apparatus. It is to provide a mechanism capable of changing or setting image processing contents performed by arithmetic processing means on data.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An image input apparatus according to the present invention has the following characteristic configuration.
An image input device comprising arithmetic processing means for communicating with other image output devices connected to a network and executing predetermined image processing on input image data, and a plurality of devices connected via the network Among the other image output devices, a device designating unit for designating the other image output device, a process designating unit for designating an image processing request, and the other image output according to the image processing request designated by the process designating unit. A processing program acquisition unit that refers to device information that identifies a function of the device and acquires a part or all of a processing program executed by the arithmetic processing unit from the other image output device via the network; and the processing program Based on the processing program acquired by the acquisition means, the image processing content to be executed by the arithmetic processing means is changed or set. And having a process control means for.
[0023]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.
[0024]
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a LAN (network) for connecting each device. In the present embodiment, Ethernet (registered trademark) using the TCP / IP protocol is assumed. (Trademark).
[0025]
Reference numeral 102 denotes a network scanner for optically reading a document having images or text information printed on paper or the like and converting it into digital information, and is connected to each device via the LAN 101 by a network interface provided. The scanner is a color scanner that reads an original in RGB three colors.
[0026]
Reference numeral 103 denotes a server apparatus that controls the entire image processing system (multifunction system) of the present embodiment and manages image information and device information of each device. Normally, server software is installed on a personal computer or workstation. This is realized.
[0027]
A network FAX 104 has a network interface and can transmit and receive data via the public line 109. It is also possible to transmit image or text data received via the LAN 101 via the public line 109 or output the data received via the public line 109 to other printers on the LAN 101. .
[0028]
A network printer 105 includes a network interface and prints out image and text data received via the LAN 101 by using a known printing technique such as an electrophotographic technique or an inkjet technique. Here, reference numeral 105 denotes a monochrome printer for performing monochrome printing. Reference numerals 106 and 107 are copier-based digital multi-function peripherals having a network interface for transmitting and receiving image and text data via the LAN 101. In addition to realizing a copy function by the apparatus itself, a network scanner and It also has the functions of both network printers. Here, reference numeral 106 denotes a color digital multifunction peripheral. Reference numeral 07 denotes a black and white digital multifunction peripheral. Reference numeral 108 denotes a file server, which functions as a function for temporarily storing data on the LAN 101 and as a digital database.
[0029]
In the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the digital multifunction peripheral 106, the digital multifunction peripheral 107, the monochrome printer 105, and the network FAX 104 communicate with each other and refer to each other with reference to the profile stored in the built-in memory. Download the image processing program that can be used by the user, rearrange some or all of their own processing programs, and execute the image processing specified by the user temporarily or permanently. The CPU of the controller unit controls the rearrangement of the contents of the processing program of the arithmetic processor for image processing (described later in FIG. 10).
[0030]
Note that in an image processing apparatus, that is, an image processing apparatus that includes arithmetic processing means that communicates with another image processing apparatus connected to a network and executes predetermined image processing on input image data, According to the designation of a desired image processing request, a part or all of the processing program executed by the arithmetic processing means is acquired from the other image processing apparatus via the network, and based on the acquired processing program, the A function of changing or setting the image processing content to be executed by the arithmetic processing means is executed by executing a control program stored in the ROM or the external storage device in a timely manner.
[0031]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0032]
In FIG. 2, 2000 is a control unit (controller unit), and CU2000 is connected to a scanner (scanner) 2070 as an image input device and a printer (printer) 2095 as an image output device. By connecting to 2051, image information and device information are input and output.
[0033]
Reference numeral 2001 denotes a CPU, which is a controller that controls the entire system. A RAM 2002 is a system work memory for the CPU 2001 to operate, and is also an image memory for temporarily storing image data. Reference numeral 2003 denotes a ROM which functions as a boot ROM and stores a system boot program.
[0034]
A hard disk drive (HDD) 2004 stores system software and image data. An operation unit I / F 2006 functions as an interface unit with the operation unit 2012 and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 2012 to the operation unit 2012. Also, it plays a role of transmitting information input by the user of the system from the operation unit 2012 to the CPU 2001.
[0035]
A network 2010 is connected to the LAN 2011 and inputs / outputs information. A modem 2050 is connected to the public line 2051 and inputs / outputs information. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 2007.
[0036]
Reference numeral 2005 denotes an image bus I / F (Image Bus I / F), which is a bus bridge that connects a system bus 2007 and an image bus 2008 that transfers image data at high speed, and converts a data structure.
[0037]
Reference numeral 2008 denotes an image bus, which is composed of a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 2008.
[0038]
A raster image processor (RIP) 2060 expands the PDL code into a bitmap image. A device I / F unit 2020 connects the scanner 2070 and the printer 2095, which are image input / output devices, to the controller unit 2000, and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.
[0039]
A scanner image processing unit 2080 corrects, processes, and edits input image data. A printer image processing unit 2090 performs printer correction, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data.
[0040]
Reference numeral 2030 denotes an image rotation unit that performs image data rotation processing. Reference numeral 2040 denotes an image compression unit which performs compression / decompression processing of JPEG for multi-value image data and JBIG, MMR, and MH for binary image data.
[0041]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the image input / output device shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0042]
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 2070 denotes a scanner which is an image input device, which illuminates an image on paper as a document and scans it with a CCD line sensor (not shown) to convert it into an electrical signal as raster image data. The original paper is set on the tray 2073 of the original feeder 2072, and when the apparatus user gives a reading start instruction from the operation unit 2012, the CPU 2001 gives an instruction to the scanner 2070. Read operation.
[0043]
A printer 2095 is an image output device for converting raster image data 2096 into an image on paper. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, and ink is ejected from a micro nozzle array. In addition, there is an ink jet system that prints an image directly on paper, but any system may be used in the application of the present invention.
[0044]
The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 2001. The printer 2095 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has paper cassettes 2101, 2102, 2103, and 2104 corresponding to the paper feed stages. A paper discharge tray 2111 receives paper that has been printed.
[0045]
FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view for explaining the configuration of the operation unit 2012 shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as those in FIG.
[0046]
In FIG. 4, reference numeral 2013 denotes an LCD display unit, which has a touch panel sheet pasted on the LCD, displays a system operation screen, and transmits the position information to the CPU 2001 when a displayed key is pressed.
[0047]
A start key 2014 is used when starting a document image reading operation. At the center of the start key 2014, there is an LED 2018 capable of displaying two colors of green and red, and the color indicates whether the start key 2014 is ready for use.
[0048]
Reference numeral 2015 denotes a stop key, which stops a job operation in progress based on the set image processing conditions. An ID key 2016 is used to input a user ID of the user. Reference numeral 2017 denotes a reset key, which is used when initializing settings from the operation unit 2012.
[0049]
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the scanner image processing unit 2080 shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0050]
In FIG. 5, reference numeral 2081 denotes an image bus I / F controller which is connected to the image bus 2008 and controls the bus access sequence and generates control and timing of each device in the scanner image processing unit 2080.
[0051]
An image arithmetic processor 2082 performs predetermined image conversion processing on image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081.
[0052]
Reference numeral 2086 denotes a binarization unit which binarizes the multi-value grayscale image data output from the image arithmetic processor 2082 by a known halftone processing technique (error diffusion processing or screen processing), and the image is processed. The data is again transferred onto the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081.
[0053]
Reference numeral 2083 denotes a downloader, which supplies a program for image conversion processing executed by the image arithmetic processor 2082. It should be noted that the program supplied by the downloader 2083 can be updated by the CPU 2001 via the image bus I / F controller 2081 as needed from various conversion processing programs stored in the ROM 2003 or RAM 2002. It is configured.
[0054]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the printer image processing unit 2090 shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0055]
In FIG. 6, an image bus I / F controller 2091 is connected to the image bus 2008 and controls the bus access sequence, and generates control and timing of each device in the scanner image processing unit 2090.
[0056]
A resolution conversion unit 2092 performs resolution conversion for converting the image data from the network 2011 or the public line 2051 into the resolution of the printer 2095. Reference numeral 2093 denotes a smoothing processing unit that performs processing to smooth out jaggies (roughness of an image appearing at a self-black boundary portion such as an oblique line) of image data after resolution conversion.
[0057]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the device I / F unit 2020 shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0058]
In the figure, reference numeral 2021 denotes an image bus I / F controller which is connected to the image bus 2008 and controls the bus access sequence and generates control and timing of each device in the device I / F unit 2020. In addition, control signals to the external scanner 2070 and printer 2095 are generated.
[0059]
A scan buffer 2022 temporarily stores image data sent from the scanner 2070 and outputs the image data in synchronization with the image bus 2008. Reference numeral 2023 denotes a serial-parallel / parallel-serial conversion unit that arranges or sequentially decomposes image data stored in the scan buffer 2022 and converts the image data into a data width that can be transferred to the image bus 2008.
[0060]
A parallel-serial / serial-parallel conversion unit 2024 decomposes the image data transferred from the image bus 2008 or arranges the image data in order, and converts the image data into a data width that can be stored in the print buffer 2025. A print buffer 2025 temporarily stores image data sent from the image bus 2008 and outputs the image data in synchronization with the printer 2095. The processing procedure at the time of image scanning is shown below.
[0061]
The image data sent from the scanner 2070 is stored in the scan buffer 2022 in synchronization with the timing signal sent from the scanner 2070. When the image bus 2008 is, for example, a PCI bus, when image data is 32 bits or more in the buffer, the image data is sent from the buffer to the serial-parallel / parallel-serial conversion unit 2023 in a first-in first-out manner for 32 bits. , Converted to 32-bit image data, and transferred to the image bus 2008 through the image bus I / F controller 2021.
[0062]
When the image bus 2008 is, for example, IEEE 1394, the image data in the buffer is first-in-first-out, sent from the buffer to the serial-parallel / parallel-serial conversion unit 2023, converted into serial image data, and the image bus I / F controller 2021. Through the image bus 2008. The processing procedure at the time of image printing is shown below.
[0063]
When the image bus 2008 is, for example, a PCI bus, 32-bit image data sent from the image bus 2008 is received by the image bus I / F controller 2021, sent to the parallel serial / serial parallel conversion unit 2024, and the printer 2095. Are divided into image data having the number of input data bits and stored in the print buffer 2025.
[0064]
When the image bus 2008 is IEEE 1394, serial image data sent from the image bus 2008 is received by the image bus I / F controller 2021, sent to the parallel serial / serial / parallel conversion unit 2024, and input data of the printer 2095. The image data is converted into image data of the number of bits and stored in the print buffer 2025. Then, in synchronization with the timing signal sent from the printer 2095, the image data in the buffer is sent to the printer 2095 in a first-in first-out manner.
[0065]
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the software configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0066]
In FIG. 8, reference numeral 1501 denotes a user interface (UI), which is a module for interfacing with a device when an operator performs various operations and settings of the multifunction peripheral. This module transfers input information to various modules, which will be described later, and requests processing or sets data in accordance with the operation of the operator.
[0067]
A database module 1502 manages Address-Book, that is, a data transmission destination, a communication destination, and the like. The contents of the Address-Book are used to add, delete, and acquire data by operations from the UI 1501, and to provide data sending / communication destination information to each module described later by the operations of the operator. is there.
[0068]
A Web-Server module 1503 is used to notify management information of an image processing apparatus that performs composite image processing in response to a request from a Web client (not shown). The management information is read via a later-described Control-API 1518 and notified to the Web client via an HTTP 1512, a TCP / IP 1516, and a Network-Driver 1517, which will be described later.
[0069]
Reference numeral 1504 denotes a universal-send module, which manages data distribution, and distributes data instructed to the operator by the UI 1501 to a communication (output) destination similarly designated.
[0070]
Further, when the operator uses the scanner function of the image processing apparatus to instruct distribution data generation, the apparatus is operated via the below-described Control-API 1518 to generate data.
[0071]
A print module 1505 is executed when a printer is designated as an output destination in the Universal-Send module 1504. Reference numeral 1506 denotes an E-mail module which is executed when an E-mail address is designated as a communication destination in the Universal-Send module 1504.
[0072]
Reference numeral 1507 denotes a DB module, which is executed when a database is designated as an output destination in the Universal-Send module 1504. Reference numeral 1508 denotes a DP module which is executed when a composite image processing apparatus similar to the present image processing apparatus is designated as an output destination in the Universal-Send module 1504.
[0073]
Reference numeral 1509 denotes a remote-copy-scan module, which uses the scanner function of the present composite type image processing apparatus and outputs another composite type image processing apparatus connected via a network or the like as an output destination. Processing equivalent to the Copy function realized by a single device is performed.
[0074]
Reference numeral 1510 denotes a remote-copy-print module, which uses the printer function of the composite image processing apparatus and inputs another composite image processing apparatus connected via a network or the like as an input destination. This is a module that performs processing equivalent to the Copy function realized by a single processing apparatus.
[0075]
Reference numeral 1511 denotes a Web-Pull-Print module, that is, reads and prints information on various home pages on the Internet or an intranet. An HTTP module 1512 is used when the composite image processing apparatus communicates with HTTP, and provides communication to the Web-Server module 1503 and the Web-Pull-Print module 1511 by the TCP / IP module 1516 described later. To do.
[0076]
An Ipr module 1513 provides communication to the printer module 1505 in the above-described Universal-Send module 1504 by a TCP / IP module 1516 described later.
[0077]
Reference numeral 1514 denotes an SMTP module which provides communication to the E-mall module 1506 in the above-described Universal-Send module 1504 by a TCP / IP module 1516 described later.
[0078]
Reference numeral 1515 denotes a Salutation-Manager (SLM) module. The TCP / IP module 1516 described later uses the database module 1517, the DP module 1508, the Remote-Copy-Scan module 1509, and the Remote-Copy- module in the above-mentioned Universal-Send module 1504. Communication is provided to the Print module 1510.
[0079]
Reference numeral 1516 denotes a TCP / IP communication module (TCP / IP module) that provides network communication to the various modules described above by a network-driver described later. Reference numeral 1517 denotes a network driver that controls a portion physically connected to the network.
[0080]
1518 is a Control-API that provides an interface with a downstream module such as Job-Manager 1519 described later for an upstream module such as the Universal-Send module 1504. It will reduce and improve the applicability of each.
[0081]
Reference numeral 1519 denotes a job manager, which interprets processing instructed from the various modules described above via the control-API 1518 and gives instructions to each module described later. The module functions as a job control unit that centrally manages hardware processing executed in the composite type image processing apparatus.
[0082]
Reference numeral 1520 denotes a CODEC-Manager that manages and controls various compression / decompression of data in the process instructed by the Job-Manager 1519. Reference numeral 1521 denotes an FBE-Encoder, which compresses data read by a scan process executed by the Job-Manager 1519 and the Scanner-Manager 1524 according to the FBE format.
[0083]
Reference numeral 1522 denotes a JPEG-CODEC that performs JPEG compression of read data and JPEG expansion processing of print data in scan processing executed by the Job-Manager 1519 and the Scanner-Manager 1524 and print processing executed by the Print-Manager 1526. Is.
[0084]
Reference numeral 1523 denotes an MMR-CODEC, which performs MMR compression of read data and MMR expansion processing of print data in scan processing executed by the Job-Manager 1519 and the Scanner-Manager 1524 and print processing executed by the Print-Manager 1526. Is.
[0085]
Reference numeral 1524 denotes a scanner-manager, which manages and controls scan processing instructed by the job-manager 1519. Reference numeral 1525 denotes a scanner driver, which communicates with the scanner unit to which the scanner-manager 1524 and the composite image processing apparatus are internally connected.
[0086]
Reference numeral 1526 denotes a print manager, which manages and controls print processing instructed by the job manager 1519. A printer driver 1527 provides an I / F between the print manager 1526 and the printing unit. A parallel port driver 1528 provides an I / F when the Web-Pull-Print 1511 outputs data to an output device (not shown) via the parallel port.
[0087]
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a device program file in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0088]
In FIG. 9, Device-Type; COPIER, input-device / SCANNER, output-device / LBP in the first row is described. Device-Type indicates the type of device. Yes, it shows that it has a scanner as an input device and a laser beam printer (LBP) as an output device.
[0089]
Device-ID; CLC-XXX in the lower row indicates a model name of the device.
[0090]
Device-address; input-device / 172.16.10.2, output-device / 172.16.10.3 in the lower row is that the network address of the input device is “172.16.10.2”. This indicates that the network address of the output device is “172.16.10.3”.
[0091]
Resolutions 300 and 600 in the lower row indicate resolutions supported by the device, and in this case, indicate that resolutions of 300 dpi and 600 dpi are supported.
[0092]
Media-size; LTR, LTRR, LGL, STMT in the lower row indicates a paper size supported by the device. In this case, the device is a paper of Letter, Letter-R, legal, legal-R, or Statement. Indicates support.
[0093]
From that line, another six lines of Casette; LTRR, 2. LGL, 3. LGL, 4. LTR, 5. STMT, 6. LGLR indicates the equipped cassette stage and its paper size. In this case, Letter-R in the first stage, Legal in the second stage, Legal in the third stage, and Letter in the fourth stage. It shows that a sheet of State is stored in the fifth row, and Legal-R size paper is loaded in the sixth row.
[0094]
Further, Output-speed; LTR-28 sec in the lower row indicates that the speed is 28 sheets / minute when outputting black and white on Letter paper, and the speed is 7 sheets / minute when outputting color. .
[0095]
The output-fees; LTR-MONO / ¢ 10 and LTR-COLOR / ¢ 40 in the lower row indicate that a charge of 10 cents (US dollar currency unit) is charged when outputting black and white in letter size, and 40 when outputting color. This indicates that a cent fee will be charged.
[0096]
In addition, Document-format; LIPS4, N201, ESC / P on the lower row is an image format supported by the device. In this case, the input by LIPS4, N201, ESC / P is supported. Show.
[0097]
Further, 20BIN-STAPLE-SORTER and 2SIDE-PRINT-UNIT in the lower row and the last row indicate Option device information connected to the printer. In this case, a sorter having a 20-bin stapling function and duplex printing are performed. It shows that the duplex unit is equipped to do.
[0098]
This device program file is possessed by all the devices constituting the multi-function system, and is automatically transmitted / received when the system or each device is started. The device program file is stored and saved in the Address-Book 1502 shown in FIG. 8 as common information. It is assumed that
[0099]
Next, a process for changing the content of the image data conversion process will be described in detail.
[0100]
First, when using the multi-function system, the operator designates an arbitrary image input device and image output device from the entire multi-function of the present embodiment connected via the LAN 101 from the display screen of the operation unit 2012 in advance. can do.
[0101]
The device designation is input from the touch panel sheet according to an instruction (not shown) displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 by the operator. Here, the type of device displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 is determined based on a device program file stored and saved in the Address-Book 1502. The designated device information is transferred to the Controller-Unit 2000, input to the CPU 2001 via the operation unit I / F 2006, and temporarily stored in the RAM 2002.
[0102]
At the same time, the CPU 2001 refers to the device program file stored in the Address-Book 1502 and issues a transmission request for the necessary conversion processing program to the designated output device. The output device that has received the transmission request for the processing program transfers it to the device that has issued the transmission request for the conversion processing program unique to the device. After the transfer is completed, the CPU 2001 combines the conversion processing program stored in advance in the ROM 2003 or RAM 2002 and the transferred conversion processing program, and performs a series of conversion processing program update processing on the downloader 2083.
[0103]
If the operator does not designate a device, the image input device and / or image output device attached to the operator is selected, a combination of standard conversion processing programs is selected, and the update process is performed for the downloader 2083. I do. Therefore, for example, if the device operated by the operator is a digital copier based digital copier 106 or 107, it functions as a conventional stand-alone digital copier.
[0104]
Next, as an example of setting actual calculation processing contents, a conversion processing program when the monochrome digital multifunction peripheral 107 is selected as the output machine from the color scanner 102 in the image processing system shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
[0105]
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the image arithmetic processor 2082 shown in FIG. 5, and corresponds to, for example, an image arithmetic processor SVP manufactured by Texas Instruments, USA.
[0106]
As shown in FIG. 10, the image arithmetic processor (SVP) includes a core unit SVPcore and a register unit IG.
[0107]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the conversion processing procedure in the color scanner. In addition, (90)-(93), (97), (98) shows each step.
[0108]
First, input data transfer processing for inputting one line of image data is performed (90). This temporarily stores all image data for one line (24 bits (8 bits × 3)) for image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081, and then performs image calculation. This is a program operation of the processor (SVP) 2082 to store in the internal data input area.
[0109]
Next, input dummy transfer processing is performed (91). This is a process for transferring image data once stored in the data input area to a predetermined data storage area in preparation for the execution process of the next shading correction process. In this embodiment, the data is transferred and stored in the first data storage area.
[0110]
Then, the shading correction process is executed (92). Specifically, with reference to the data stored in the first data storage area, RGB (8 bits each) three primary color signals read by the color separation filter of the 3-line color sensor (CCD) of the scanner 2070 Thus, correction (shading correction) of the light amount distribution of the light source for illuminating the document, the light amount unevenness generated in the lens system, and the sensitivity unevenness of the photoelectric conversion cell of the CCD itself is performed. Then, each RGB data subjected to the shading correction process is stored in the second data storage area.
[0111]
Next, input masking processing is performed (93). Specifically, by referring to the data stored in the second data storage area, matrix calculation for correcting the sensitivity of the color separation filter of the CCD is performed and converted into a normalized signal of RGB (each 8 bits). The converted data is stored in the first data storage area.
[0112]
Then, output dummy transfer processing is performed (97). Specifically, processing for transferring image data stored in the second data storage area to a predetermined data output area in advance is performed in preparation for the next output transfer process.
[0113]
Next, output data transfer processing for outputting one line of image data is performed (98). Specifically, all pixel data (8 bits) for one line stored in the data output area is output to the binarization processing unit 2086 by the program operation of the SVP 2082. Thereafter, for all lines of image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081, a series of steps (91) to (93), (97), and (98) are performed. Predetermined conversion processing is performed and output is performed sequentially.
[0114]
Further, the processed image data is sequentially transferred onto the image bus 2008 via the image bus controller 2081.
[0115]
Thus, a series of data conversion processing is completed, and the converted image information is printed out from the printer.
[0116]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the conversion processing procedure in the monochrome digital multifunction peripheral 107. In addition, (90)-(92), (95)-(98) show each step.
[0117]
First, input data transfer processing for inputting one line of image data is performed (90). This temporarily stores all image data for one line (24 bits (8 bits × 3)) for image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081, and then performs image calculation. This is a program operation of the processor (SVP) 2082 to store in the internal data input area.
[0118]
Next, input dummy transfer processing is performed (91). This is a process for transferring image data once stored in the data input area to a predetermined data storage area in preparation for the execution process of the next shading correction process. In this embodiment, the data is transferred and stored in the first data storage area.
[0119]
Then, the shading correction process is executed (92). Specifically, with reference to the data stored in the first data storage area, RGB (8 bits each) three primary color signals read by the color separation filter of the 3-line color sensor (CCD) of the scanner 2070 Thus, correction (shading correction) of the light amount distribution of the light source for illuminating the document, the light amount unevenness generated in the lens system, and the sensitivity unevenness of the photoelectric conversion cell of the CCD itself is performed. Then, each RGB data subjected to the shading correction process is stored in the second data storage area.
[0120]
Next, spatial filter processing is performed (95). Specifically, the luminance data L (8 bits) stored in the second data storage area is read, and the past four lines of luminance data and the current line of luminance data L stored in the first intermediate data storage area are read out. On the other hand, by simultaneously referring to the data of the pixel position of interest and each of the left and right pixel positions, the predetermined Laplacian calculation is performed with reference to the luminance data at the 25 pixel position of the filter calculation area (5 × 5).
[0121]
Next, the intensity of the filter is determined from the luminance data and the Laplacian calculation result, and the luminance data at the target pixel position is converted. Thereafter, the converted luminance data L is stored in the first data storage area. Here, the target pixel position of the output in the spatial filter processing is defined with respect to the data position input two lines before because the calculation area is two-dimensional (5 × 5).
[0122]
In addition, the previously obtained luminance data L of the current line is overwritten on the data stored at the time of the oldest line processing in the first intermediate data storage area and the first intermediate data storage area as intermediate data in preparation for the next line processing. Store each. This processing corresponds to a data line delay, but the image arithmetic processor (SVP) 2082 has a built-in mechanism for performing such processing at a high speed. Delay processing can be performed.
[0123]
Next, a gamma conversion process is performed (96). Specifically, the data stored in the first data storage area is referred to, and γ conversion is performed by function approximation so as to obtain a density balance set in advance by the user. The data subjected to the γ conversion processing is stored again in the second data storage area.
[0124]
Then, an output dummy transfer process is performed. Specifically, processing for transferring image data stored in the second data storage area to a predetermined data output area in advance is performed in preparation for the next output transfer process.
[0125]
Next, output data transfer processing for outputting one line of image data is performed (98). Specifically, all pixel data (8 bits) for one line stored in the data output area is output to the binarization processing unit 2086 by the program operation of the SVP 2082. Thereafter, a predetermined conversion process is sequentially performed on all the lines of the image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081 through a series of steps (91) to (98). Go output.
[0126]
Further, the processed image data is sequentially transferred onto the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081.
[0127]
Thus, a series of data conversion processing is completed, and the converted image information is printed out from the printer.
[0128]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the conversion processing procedure in the monochrome digital multifunction peripheral 107. In addition, (90)-(98) shows each step.
[0129]
First, input data transfer processing for inputting one line of image data is performed (90). This temporarily stores all the image data (24 bits (8 bits × 3)) for one line for the image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081, and then the SVP 2082. It is an operation of storing in an internal data input area by a program operation.
[0130]
Next, input dummy transfer processing is performed (91). This is a process for transferring image data once stored in the data input area to a predetermined data storage area in preparation for the execution process of the next shading correction process. In this embodiment, the data is transferred and stored in the first data storage area.
[0131]
Then, the shading correction process is executed (92). Specifically, with reference to the data stored in the first data storage area, RGB (8 bits each) three primary color signals read by the color separation filter of the 3-line color sensor (CCD) of the scanner 2070 Thus, correction (shading correction) of the light amount distribution of the light source for illuminating the document, the light amount unevenness generated in the lens system, and the sensitivity unevenness of the photoelectric conversion cell of the CCD itself is performed. Then, each RGB data subjected to the shading correction process is stored in the second data storage area.
[0132]
Next, input masking processing is performed (93). Specifically, by referring to the data stored in the second data storage area, matrix calculation for correcting the sensitivity of the color separation filter of the CCD is performed and converted into a normalized signal of RGB (each 8 bits). The converted data is stored in the first data storage area.
[0133]
Then, luminance signal generation processing is performed (94). Specifically, referring to data stored in the first data storage area, the luminance information of the original image from the RGB (8 bits each) primary color signals read by the color separation filter of the 3-line color sensor of the scanner 2070 Is converted into a luminance signal (luminance data) of L (8 bits) representing only. The converted luminance data L is stored in the second data storage area.
[0134]
Next, spatial filter processing is performed (95). Specifically, the luminance data L (8 bits) stored in the second data storage area is read, and the past four lines of luminance data and the current line of luminance data L stored in the first intermediate data storage area are read out. On the other hand, by simultaneously referring to the data of the pixel position of interest and each of the left and right pixel positions, the predetermined Laplacian calculation is performed with reference to the luminance data at the 25 pixel position of the filter calculation area (5 × 5).
[0135]
Next, the intensity of the filter is determined from the luminance data and the Laplacian calculation result, and the luminance data at the target pixel position is converted. Thereafter, the converted luminance data L is stored in the first data storage area. Here, the target pixel position of the output in the spatial filter processing is defined with respect to the data position input two lines before because the calculation area is two-dimensional (5 × 5).
[0136]
In addition, the previously obtained luminance data L of the current line is overwritten on the data stored at the time of the oldest line processing in the first intermediate data storage area and the first intermediate data storage area as intermediate data in preparation for the next line processing. Store each. This process corresponds to a data line delay, but since the SVP 2082 has a built-in mechanism for performing such a process at high speed, the line delay process can be performed with a few instructions on the program. Is possible.
[0137]
Next, a gamma conversion process is performed (96). Specifically, the data stored in the first data storage area is referred to, and γ conversion is performed by function approximation so as to obtain a density balance set in advance by the user. The data subjected to the γ conversion processing is stored again in the second data storage area.
[0138]
Then, an output dummy transfer process is performed. Specifically, processing for transferring image data stored in the second data storage area to a predetermined data output area in advance is performed in preparation for the next output transfer process.
[0139]
Next, output data transfer processing for outputting one line of image data is performed (98). Specifically, all pixel data (8 bits) for one line stored in the data output area is output to the binarization processing unit 2086 by the program operation of the SVP 2082. Thereafter, a predetermined conversion process is sequentially performed on all the lines of the image data input from the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081 through a series of steps (91) to (98). Go output.
[0140]
Further, the processed image data is sequentially transferred onto the image bus 2008 via the image bus I / F controller 2081.
[0141]
Thus, a series of data conversion processing is completed, and the converted image information is printed out from the printer.
[0142]
[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the case where the operator selects the color scanner 102 and the monochrome digital multifunction peripheral 107 having completely different characteristics when using the present multifunction system has been described. It is also effective when selecting.
[0143]
For example, even when the monochrome digital multifunction peripheral 107 is selected as the image input device and the second monochrome digital multifunction peripheral 107 is selected as the image output device, the conversion processing programs executed by the two monochrome digital multifunction devices 107 are not the same. It is necessary to change the operation parameters in the conversion processing program due to the state unique to the device and the change in characteristics over time.
[0144]
According to the present embodiment, in the two monochrome digital multi-function peripherals 107 capable of executing the same conversion processing procedure shown in FIG. 12, processing programs having differences in calculation parameters due to device-specific conditions and changes in characteristics over time It is possible to arbitrarily rearrange only the parts.
[0145]
[Third Embodiment]
In the first and second embodiments, the case where the arithmetic processing program is rearranged according to the combination of each device on the multi-function system has been described. However, according to the processing content designated by the operator by the processing designation means, the system is a network As long as it is possible to obtain an arithmetic processing program for a specified process from the devices connected to the PC, it does not depart from the gist of the present invention.
[0146]
That is, for example, a necessary conversion processing program transmission request is issued to a device having an arithmetic processing program designated by the processing designation means.
[0147]
The output device that has received the transmission request for the processing program transfers the conversion program to the device that has issued the transmission request for the conversion program. After the transfer is completed, the CPU 2001 combines the conversion processing program stored in advance in the ROM 2003 or the RAM 2002 and the transferred conversion processing program to update the series of conversion processing programs to the downloader 2083. is there.
[0148]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a procedure for acquiring a processing program held in each device of the multifunction system and performing image processing. In addition, (90)-(92) shows each step.
[0149]
In the present embodiment, for example, when the black-and-white digital multifunction peripheral 107 and the color digital multifunction peripheral 106 are connected to a network for communication and execute predetermined image processing on input image data, the black-and-white digital multifunction peripheral 107 is connected. A desired image processing request is designated from the operation unit to the CPU 2001 (90). Then, according to the designated desired image processing request, part or all of the processing program executed by the CPU 2001 is acquired from the color scanner via the network (91).
[0150]
Next, based on the acquired processing program, the image processing content to be executed by the CPU 2001 is changed or set (92), and the processing ends.
[0151]
The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.
[0152]
FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0153]
Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed Icons may also be stored.
[0154]
Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.
[0155]
The functions shown in FIGS. 11 to 14 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.
[0156]
As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.
[0157]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0158]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, an EEPROM, or the like is used. it can.
[0159]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0160]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0161]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the image processing performed by the arithmetic processing means on the input image data using part or all of the processing program acquired from the designated image output apparatus. The contents can be changed or set.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image input / output device illustrated in FIG. 2;
4 is a schematic plan view illustrating a configuration of an operation unit illustrated in FIG.
5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a scanner image processing unit illustrated in FIG.
6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer image processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG.
7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a device I / F unit illustrated in FIG. 2;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a software configuration in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a device program file in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
10 is a block diagram showing an example of an image arithmetic processor shown in FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium storing various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
2001 CPU
2012 Operation unit

Claims (4)

Communicating with other image output devices connected to the network, an image input apparatus comprising a processing means for performing predetermined image processing on the image data to be input,
Device designation means for designating the other image output device from among a plurality of image output devices connected via the network;
A process specifying means for specifying the images processing request,
Refers to the device information for identifying the function of the other image output device I follow the images processing request that will be specified by the process specifying means, said network part or all of the processing program implemented in the processing means Processing program acquisition means for acquiring from the other image output device via,
Based on the processing program acquired by the processing program acquisition means, processing control means for changing or setting the image processing content to be executed by the arithmetic processing means,
An image input device comprising: An image processing method in an image input device comprising arithmetic processing means for communicating with another image output device connected to a network and executing predetermined image processing on input image data,
A device designating step of designating the other image output device from among a plurality of image output devices connected via the network;
A process specifying step of specifying the images processing request,
Refers to the device information for identifying the function of the other image output device I follow the images processing request that will be specified by the process specifying step, the network part or all of the processing program implemented in the processing means A processing program acquisition step of acquiring from the other image output device via
Based on the processing program acquired by the processing program acquisition step, a process control step for changing or setting the image processing content to be executed by the arithmetic processing means;
An image processing method comprising:   A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the image processing method according to claim 2.   A program for causing a computer to execute the image processing method according to claim 2.

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