JP5541202B2 - Spreadsheet data generation apparatus and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a spreadsheet data generation apparatus and program for generating spreadsheet format data in which a plurality of tables are arranged on one spreadsheet.

  In the technology of reading a document with a scanner and digitizing it, there is a demand for a function for automatically generating a spreadsheet file by extracting a table area from the read image data.

  When converting image data including a table into a spreadsheet format file, it is necessary to set the cell width and cell height of the spreadsheet in accordance with the ruled lines constituting the table. The table included in the manuscript contains many irregular forms, so it is necessary to deal with it.

  As a technique corresponding to the irregular table, for example, a table included in the image data of a document is analyzed, and a cell having a cell width / cell height that can divide all cells used in the table by an integer value is used. Among them, the largest cell is set as the smallest cell. Then, a spreadsheet in which the minimum cells are arranged without gaps is configured, and spreadsheet format data is automatically generated by combining cells of various sizes used in the original table by combining multiple minimum cells. There is a technique (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  Also, when pasting another spreadsheet into the pasting source spreadsheet, the configuration information of the pasting table and the pasting table configuration information are acquired respectively, and both can be expressed simultaneously. There is a technique in which a spreadsheet is reset by separating the number and width of cells (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 10-134142 A JP 2007-328514 A

  Combine multiple tables contained in a single document into a single spreadsheet, combine multiple tables read from multiple documents into a single spreadsheet, or combine multiple spreadsheets into a single sheet When a plurality of tables are mixed on a single spreadsheet, such as collecting them, the positions of ruled lines are often different in each table and do not match. Therefore, in the techniques of Patent Documents 1 and 2, the cell configuration set on the spreadsheet becomes fine and difficult to handle.

  For example, in the technique of Patent Document 1, as shown in FIG. 16, when spreadsheet data (right side) is generated from one original (left side) including a plurality of tables, it is indicated by a broken line. In addition, the entire spreadsheet is divided into minimum cell units.

  In particular, when a paper document is read and converted into electronic data in a spreadsheet format, even if documents with the same layout are continuously read, the ruled line positions of each document cannot be perfectly matched due to misalignment during conveyance. . Also, mixed originals with different orientations and magnifications may be scanned. For this reason, if a spreadsheet in which a plurality of tables are mixed from a read document is automatically generated, the cell configuration tends to be fine.

  Increasing the number of micro-sized cells is not a problem as long as the file is simply opened and displayed. However, when a paper document is scanned and converted into electronic data in a spreadsheet format, the electronic data is often used for later editing. Therefore, if the cell configuration becomes complicated, handling at the time of editing becomes difficult. A large impact.

  The present invention is intended to solve the above-described problem, and a spreadsheet capable of automatically generating spreadsheet data in which a plurality of tables are mixed while avoiding the generation of minute cells and subdivision of the cell configuration. An object is to provide a data generation device and a program.

  The gist of the present invention for achieving the object lies in the inventions of the following items.

[1] Acquire each ruled line and ruled line position of a plurality of tables arranged on one spreadsheet and classify them for each table.
When a set of two ruled lines belonging to different tables is selected from the acquired ruled lines, and the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines are different and the difference is within a predetermined change allowable range, the two ruled lines One or both of the ruled line positions are moved, and the integration process for integrating the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines into one ruled line position is performed for one or more sets.
Spreadsheet data in which cells are set in accordance with the ruled line position after completion of the integration process is generated.

  In the above invention, if the difference between the ruled line positions of two ruled lines belonging to different tables is within the change allowable range, the ruled line position of one or both ruled lines is moved and corrected to change the ruled line position of the two ruled lines to one ruled line. Integrate into position. As a result, the number of cell divisions is reduced, and spreadsheet data suitable for editing can be generated.

[2] A plurality of tables are detected from one page of image data including a plurality of tables or a plurality of pages of image data each including a table, and the detected plurality of tables are arranged on the one spreadsheet. The spreadsheet data generation device according to [1], wherein the spreadsheet data generation device is processed as a plurality of tables.

  In the above invention, a plurality of tables are detected from one page of image data (image data) including a plurality of tables or a plurality of pages of image data each including a table, and the detected plurality of tables are placed on one spreadsheet. Generate the arranged spreadsheet data.

[3] Decide the standard table,
The spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to [1] or [2], wherein the ruled lines belonging to the reference table and the ruled lines belonging to another table are set as the set.

  In the above invention, the position of the ruled line in the other table is corrected within the change allowable range to the position of the ruled line (reference line) included in the reference table. By specifying the reference table, processing becomes easy.

[4] When the integration is performed in the column direction, a table having the largest number of ruled lines in the column direction is determined as the reference table.
In the case where the integration is performed in the row direction, the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the row direction is determined as the reference table. The spreadsheet data generating device according to [3].

  In the above invention, if a table having a large number of ruled lines is used as a reference table, the amount of movement when aligning the ruled line positions of other tables with the ruled lines of the reference table can be reduced. Further, since there are many reference lines, there is a high possibility of being within the change allowable range.

[5] The spreadsheet data generation device according to [3] or [4], wherein the standard table is changed and the integration process is performed again.

  In the above invention, a ruled line that is not within the change allowable range in one reference table and has not been corrected in position may be corrected within the change allowable range by using another table as a reference table. The number of divisions can be reduced. In particular, if the reference tables are sequentially switched so that all the tables become reference tables, the number of ruled lines remaining without being corrected in position can be reduced.

[6] Any one of [3] to [5], wherein, among the two ruled lines in the set, the ruled line position of the other table ruled line is aligned with the ruled line position of the reference table ruled line The spreadsheet data generation apparatus as described in any one.

[7] The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines in the set are integrated into an intermediate position thereof.

  In the above invention, since the positions of the two ruled lines approach each other, it is prevented that only one cell becomes small due to the correction of the ruled line position.

[8] Of the two ruled lines in the set, when the ruled line position of one ruled line is moved to the ruled line position of the other ruled line, the cell includes the moved ruled line in the frame and has a small size. The spreadsheet data generating apparatus according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the integration is performed by using a ruled line having a smaller number of cells as a ruled line on a moving side.

  In the above invention, it is difficult to reduce the cell size by correcting the position of the ruled line. The influence on the storage property of the character in the cell can be reduced.

[9] The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the integration processing is performed in preference to a set having a small difference.

  In the above invention, the ruled line of a set with a smaller difference is preferentially corrected in position, so that the correction amount of the ruled line position can be reduced.

[10] Repeat the integration process until the number of cells falls below a predetermined upper limit number, and widen the change allowable range when the number of cells does not decrease even if the integration process is performed within the current allowable change range. The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein:

  In the above invention, the ruled line position is corrected until the number of cells falls within the allowable range. That is, the ruled line position is corrected with priority on the number of cells. It should be noted that by expanding the change allowable range when the number of cells no longer decreases, the number of ruled lines whose positions are corrected is increased, and the number of cells can be decreased.

[11] Any one of [1] to [10], wherein the change allowable range used in the row direction integration process and the change allowable range used in the column direction integration process can be individually set. The spreadsheet data generator described in 1.

  In the above invention, it is possible to set a change allowable range suitable for each of the row direction and the column direction.

[12] The spreadsheet data according to any one of [1] to [11], wherein the integration processing is performed in both directions in the column direction and the row direction or in the row direction and the column direction. Generator.

[13] When the plurality of tables exist only in the column direction, the integration process is performed only in the column direction;
The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of [1] to [11], wherein when the plurality of tables exist only in a row direction, the integration processing is performed only in the row direction.

  In the above invention, the integration process in the direction that does not require integration is omitted.

[14] The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of [1] to [13], wherein the change allowable range is set in a plurality of stages.

[15] Any one of [1] to [14], wherein the change allowable range is changed according to a size of a cell including a ruled line to be moved in a frame line and on the side to which the ruled line is moved. The spreadsheet data generation apparatus as described in any one.

  In the above invention, when the cell size is reduced by moving the ruled line, the change allowable range is changed according to the cell size of the cell. This is because, even if the ruled line position is corrected to a larger cell, the influence of the large cell on the storage property of characters is difficult.

[16] In the integration process of ruled lines in the column direction, the spreadsheet is divided into a plurality of areas at the boundary lines in the column direction, and a reference table is set for each area.
In any one of [3] to [5], in the integration processing of ruled lines in the row direction, the spreadsheet is divided into a plurality of areas along the boundary line in the row direction, and a reference table is set for each area. The spreadsheet data generator described in 1.

  In the above invention, the ruled line position is corrected for each area by the reference table suitable for the area.

[17] An information processing apparatus
A function of acquiring each ruled line and ruled line position of a plurality of tables to be arranged on one spreadsheet and classifying them for each table;
When a set of two ruled lines belonging to different tables is selected from the acquired ruled lines, and the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines are different and the difference is within a predetermined change allowable range, the two ruled lines A function of performing integration processing for one or more sets by moving one or both ruled line positions and integrating the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines into one ruled line position;
A function of generating spreadsheet data in which cells are set according to the ruled line position after the integration process is completed;
A program characterized by having executed.

  According to the spreadsheet data generation apparatus and program according to the present invention, spreadsheet data in which a plurality of tables are mixed can be automatically generated while avoiding generation of minute cells and subdivision of cell configuration.

It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the image processing apparatus which has a function as a spreadsheet data generation apparatus of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the spreadsheet data production | generation process which the spreadsheet data production | generation apparatus of 1st Embodiment performs. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a ruled line position correction process (1). It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of correction of the ruled line position by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus of 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which compares and shows the spreadsheet produced | generated with the spreadsheet data production | generation apparatus of 1st Embodiment, and the fragmented spreadsheet produced | generated by the conventional method. It is a flowchart which shows the spreadsheet data production | generation process which the spreadsheet data production | generation apparatus of 2nd Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of correction of the ruled line position by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the spreadsheet data production | generation process which the spreadsheet data production | generation apparatus of 3rd Embodiment performs. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a ruled line position correction process (2). It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of correction of the ruled line position by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus of 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which compares and shows the spreadsheet produced | generated by the spreadsheet data production | generation apparatus of 3rd Embodiment, and the fragmented spreadsheet produced | generated by the conventional method. It is a flowchart which shows the spreadsheet data production | generation process which the spreadsheet data production | generation apparatus of 4th Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of correction of the ruled line position by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus of 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example in the case of changing a change allowable range according to the size of a cell. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example in the case of setting a reference | standard table | surface per area. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the spreadsheet produced | generated by the conventional method.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of an image processing apparatus 10 including a function as a spreadsheet data generation apparatus of the present invention. The image processing apparatus 10 optically reads a document to acquire image data, and based on this image data, a copy function for printing a duplicate image of the document on a recording paper, and stores the read image data as a file in a predetermined format And a so-called multi-function device having a scan function for performing transmission and transmission, and a PC print function for forming and outputting an image related to print data received from an external terminal such as a personal computer on a recording sheet.

  The image processing apparatus 10 is connected to a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 as a control unit that performs overall control of the operation of the image processing apparatus 10, an image reading unit 13, an image forming unit 14, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) via a bus 12. ) 15, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 16, a nonvolatile memory 17, a display unit 18, an operation unit 19, an image processing unit 21, a network I / F unit 22, and a hard disk device 23. Composed.

  Various programs are stored in the ROM 15, and the functions of the image processing apparatus 10 are realized by the CPU 11 executing processes according to these programs. For example, the CPU 11 functions as a spreadsheet data generation device by executing a predetermined program stored in the ROM 15.

The RAM 16 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 11 executes a program, an image memory for storing image data, and the like.

  The nonvolatile memory 17 is a rewritable memory that retains the stored contents even when the power is turned off, and stores various setting values set for the image processing apparatus 10 and user authentication information.

  The image reading unit 13 performs a function of optically reading a document and acquiring image data. The image reading unit 13 sequentially, for example, a light source that irradiates light on a document, a line image sensor that receives the reflected light for one line in the width direction, and a line-by-line reading position sequentially in the length direction of the document. An optical path composed of a moving means for moving, a lens, a mirror, and the like for forming an image by guiding reflected light from a document to a line image sensor, a conversion unit for converting an analog image signal output from the line image sensor into digital image data, etc. It is configured with.

  The image forming unit 14 functions as a printing unit that prints and outputs an image corresponding to input image data on a recording sheet. The image forming unit 14 includes a recording paper conveyance device, a photosensitive drum, a charging device, a laser unit, a developing device, a transfer separation device, a cleaning device, and a fixing device. It is configured as a so-called laser printer that performs image formation. Other image forming type printers may be used.

  The display unit 18 is configured by a liquid crystal display (LCD) and the like, and has a function of displaying various operation screens, setting screens, and the like. The operation unit 19 has a function of accepting various operations such as job setting / submission operations from the user. The operation unit 19 includes a touch panel that is provided on the screen of the display unit 18 and detects a pressed coordinate position, and includes a numeric keypad, a character input key, a start key, and the like.

  The image processing unit 21 performs rasterization processing for converting print data into image data, image data compression, expansion processing, and the like in addition to processing such as image enlargement / reduction and rotation.

  The network I / F unit 22 functions to connect to a network such as a LAN and transmit / receive various data to / from a terminal device or server on the network. The hard disk device 23 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and is used, for example, for storing print data, image data, and various files.

  Hereinafter, functions of the image processing apparatus 10 as a spreadsheet data generation apparatus will be described. The hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus 10 is common to the embodiments described below.

  In the function as a spreadsheet data generation device, a plurality of tables are input, and one spreadsheet in which these are mixed is generated. At this time, if the ruled line positions of two ruled lines belonging to different tables are within a predetermined change allowable range, one or both of the ruled lines are moved and integrated into one ruled line position. Thereby, even if the ruled line positions of the plurality of tables are shifted, it is possible to generate the spreadsheet data while avoiding the generation of minute cells and the subdivision of the cell configuration.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a spreadsheet data generation process performed by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. First, the user accepts specification of a change allowable range for a ruled line in the row direction (horizontal direction) (step S101) and specification of a change allowable range for a ruled line in the column direction (vertical direction) (step S102).

  Next, original image data to be converted into a spreadsheet format file is acquired (step S103). It is assumed that the image data acquired in step S103 includes a plurality of tables. Here, one or a plurality of originals are optically read by the image reading unit 13 to acquire image data to be converted.

  The CPU 11 analyzes the image data to be converted in a known analysis direction and extracts a plurality of table areas (step S104). Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas are arranged in the column direction in the same range in the row direction among the extracted table areas (step S105). If a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the column direction (step S105; No), the process proceeds to step S110.

  If a plurality of table regions exist side by side in the column direction (step S105; Yes), each ruled line and ruled line position in the column direction of each table is acquired (step S106), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S106). Step S107).

  Next, the number of ruled lines in the column direction is totaled for each table, and the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the column direction is set as a reference table (reference table) (step S108). Next, the ruled line position correction process (1) is performed in the column direction based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the column direction specified in step S102 and the reference table (step S109).

  FIG. 3 shows the details of the ruled line position correction process (1) performed in step S109 and step S115 described later. The basic flow of this process is common when processing the column direction and when processing the row direction. The ruled line in this process means a ruled line in the column direction when performing the process in the column direction, and a ruled line in the column direction when performing the process in the row direction.

  First, a reference line is selected from the ruled lines of the reference table (step S141). When processing the column direction, among the ruled lines in the column direction included in the reference table, the ruled lines are selected one by one from the leftmost ruled line. In the case of processing the row direction, among the ruled lines in the row direction included in the reference table, the reference lines are sequentially selected one by one from the top ruled line.

  From the ruled lines of the tables other than the reference table, a ruled line with the smallest difference from the position of the reference line and uncorrected is extracted (step S142). The reference line and the extracted ruled line are paired, and the difference between the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines included in this pair (difference between the ruled line position of the reference line and the ruled line position of the other ruled line paired with the reference line) is It is checked whether the change is within the allowable range (step S143). If the change is not within the allowable range (step S143; No), the process moves to step S145 without correcting the ruled line position.

  If the difference is within the change allowable range (step S143; Yes), the extracted ruled line position is corrected to the reference line position (step S144), and the ruled line positions are integrated. The position may be corrected so that both the reference line and the extracted ruled line position are moved to an intermediate position (average position) between the reference line and the extracted ruled line.

  In step S145, it is determined whether or not processing has been completed using all ruled lines in the reference table as reference lines. If not completed (step S145; No), a new reference line that has not been selected as a reference line in the reference table is newly selected. A correct reference line is selected (step S146), and the process returns to step S142 and continues.

  If all the ruled lines have been processed as reference lines (step S145; Yes), the ruled line position correcting process ends.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the description will be continued. In step S110, the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (the position and width of each cell in the row direction) is set according to the corrected ruled line position in the column direction. If a plurality of tables are not arranged in the column direction (step S105; No), the ruled line position is recognized by performing step S106, and the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (each of the row direction is determined) according to the ruled line position. Cell position and width).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction in the same range in the column direction among the plurality of table areas extracted in step S104 (step S111). If a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the row direction (step S111; No), the process proceeds to step S116.

  When a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction (step S111; Yes), the ruled lines in the row direction and the ruled line positions of each table are acquired (step S112), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S112). Step S113).

  Next, the number of ruled lines in the row direction is totaled for each table, and the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the row direction is set as a reference table (reference table) (step S114). Next, the ruled line position correction process (1) in FIG. 3 is performed in the row direction based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the row direction specified in step S101 and the reference table (step S115).

  In step S116, the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (the position and height of each cell in the column direction) is set according to the corrected ruled line position in the row direction. If a plurality of tables are not arranged in the row direction (step S111; No), step S112 is performed to recognize the ruled line position in the row direction, and the cell (row) of the spreadsheet being generated is determined according to the ruled line position. Set the position and width of each cell in the direction.

  Thereafter, the frame of the cell corresponding to the ruled line of each table is set to be colored (step S117), and this process is terminated.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of correcting the ruled line position by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 4, the table 40 is a reference table because the number of ruled lines is large. In the first process P1, the ruled line 41 at the left end of the reference table 40 becomes the reference line, and the ruled line 51 closest to the reference line 41 in the table 50 is extracted. Since the difference between the reference line 41 and the ruled line 51 is within the change allowable range, the ruled line position of the ruled line 51 is corrected to the position of the reference line 41.

  In the second process P2, the second ruled line 42 from the left end of the reference table 40 becomes the reference line, and the unprocessed ruled line 52 closest to the reference line 42 in the table 50 is extracted. Since the difference between the reference line 42 and the ruled line 52 is within the change allowable range, the ruled line position of the ruled line 52 is corrected to the position of the reference line 42.

  In the third process P3, the third ruled line 43 from the left end of the reference table 40 becomes the reference line, and the unprocessed ruled line 53 closest to the reference line 43 in the table 50 is extracted. Since the difference between the reference line 43 and the ruled line 53 exceeds the allowable change range, the ruled line position is not corrected.

  In the fourth process P4, the fourth ruled line 44 from the left end of the reference table 40 becomes the reference line, and the unprocessed ruled line 53 closest to the reference line 44 in the table 50 is extracted. Since the difference between the reference line 44 and the ruled line 53 is within the change allowable range, the ruled line position of the ruled line 53 is corrected to the position of the reference line 44. This ends the process.

  FIG. 5 shows a spreadsheet (upper sheet in FIG. 5) generated by a conventional method that does not correct the ruled line position, and a spreadsheet (lower sheet in FIG. 5) generated in the first embodiment of the present invention. Is shown in contrast. In a spreadsheet (upper sheet) in which the ruled line position is not corrected, cells with a very small width are required, and the number of divided cells is large. On the other hand, the spreadsheet (lower sheet) generated in the first embodiment does not require a cell having a minute width, and the number of divided cells is reduced.

<Second Embodiment>
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing spreadsheet data generation processing performed by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, the change allowable range is prioritized, and the ruled line position is corrected only when it falls within this change allowable range. However, in the second embodiment, the number of cells falls within the set allowable range. Is given priority, and the change allowable range is expanded as necessary.

  First, the CPU 11 receives specification of a change allowable range for a ruled line in the row direction (step S201) and specification of a change allowable range for a ruled line in the column direction (step S202) from the user via the operation unit 19. Furthermore, designation of an allowable range (upper limit number) of the number of cells in the row direction (step S203) and designation of an allowable range of the number of cells in the column direction (step S204) are received.

  Next, original image data to be converted into a spreadsheet format file is acquired (step S205). The CPU 11 analyzes the image data to be converted and extracts a plurality of table areas (step S206). Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas are present in the column range in the same range in the row direction among the extracted table areas (step S207), and the plurality of table areas are aligned in the column direction. If it does not exist (step S207; No), the process proceeds to step S214.

  When a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the column direction (step S207; Yes), each ruled line and ruled line position in the column direction of each table is acquired (step S208), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S208). Step S209).

  Next, the number of ruled lines in the column direction is totaled for each table, and the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the column direction is set as the reference table (step S210). Based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the column direction specified in step S202 and the reference table, the ruled line position correction process (1) in FIG. 3 is performed for the column direction (step S211). Then, it is determined whether or not the number of cells in the column direction when the cells are set according to the corrected ruled line position is within the allowable range of the number of cells in the column direction specified in step S204 (step S212).

  If it is not within the allowable range (step S212; No), the current column direction change allowable range is enlarged by a predetermined amount (for example, 1 mm) (step S213), the process proceeds to step S210, and the ruled line position is corrected again. Process. By enlarging the change allowable range, the position of a ruled line that was previously excluded as out of range may be corrected.

  When the number of cells in the column direction falls within the allowable range (step S212; Yes), the spreadsheet cell (the position and width of each cell in the row direction) being generated is set according to the corrected ruled line position in the column direction. (Step S214). If a plurality of tables are not aligned in the column direction (step S207; No), step S208 is performed to recognize the ruled line position, and according to the ruled line position, the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (each row direction) Cell position and width).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction in the same range in the column direction among the plurality of table areas extracted in step S206 (step S215). If a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the row direction (step S215; No), the process proceeds to step S222.

  If a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction (step S215; Yes), each ruled line and ruled line position in the row direction of each table is acquired (step S216), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S216). Step S217).

  Next, the number of ruled lines in the row direction is totaled for each table, and the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the row direction is set as the reference table (step S218). Based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the row direction specified in step S201 and the reference table, the ruled line position correction process (1) in FIG. 3 is performed in the row direction (step S219). Then, it is determined whether the number of cells in the row direction when the cells are set according to the corrected ruled line position in the row direction is within the allowable range of the number of cells in the row direction specified in step S203 (step S220).

  If it is not within the allowable range (step S220; No), the current row direction change allowable range is enlarged by a predetermined amount (for example, 1 mm) (step S221), the process proceeds to step S218, and the ruled line position is corrected again. Process.

  If it falls within the allowable range of the number of cells in the row direction (step S220; Yes), the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (the position and height of each cell in the column direction) is changed according to the corrected ruled line position in the row direction. Setting is made (step S222). If the plurality of tables are not aligned in the row direction (step S215; No), the ruled line position is recognized by performing step S216, and the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (each column direction in the column direction) is recognized according to the ruled line position. Cell position and width). Next, the cell frame corresponding to the ruled line of each table is set to be colored (step S223), and this process is terminated.

  FIG. 7 shows a state P11 before the ruled line position is corrected, a state P12 in which the spreadsheet data generation apparatus of the second embodiment corrects the ruled line position within the change allowable range A, and the change allowable range is extended to the change allowable range B. The state P13 after the ruled line position is corrected is shown. In the state P11 before the ruled line position correction, the number of cells in the column direction is 6. When the ruled line position is corrected within the change allowable range A, the ruled line 64 remains uncorrected because the difference from the reference line 65 exceeds the change allowable range A.

  In this state, if the number of cells in the column direction is not within the set allowable range, the change allowable range for the column direction is expanded to the change allowable range B. As a result, the difference between the ruled line 64 and the reference line 65 falls within the change allowable range B, and the ruled line position of the ruled line 64 is corrected as shown in the corrected state P13. The number of cells in the column direction becomes 3, falls within the allowable range, and the process ends.

<Third Embodiment>
In the first and second embodiments, a reference table is defined, and each ruled line included in the reference table is set as a reference line in order, and the ruled line position is corrected. In the third embodiment, a different table is used. A set of two ruled lines selected one by one is set, and the ruled line position is corrected with priority given to the combination having the smallest difference between the ruled line positions of the two selected ruled lines.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing spreadsheet data generation processing performed by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to the third embodiment. First, designation of a change allowable range for a ruled line in the row direction (step S301) and designation of a change allowable range for a ruled line in the column direction are received from the user via the operation unit 19 (step S302).

  Next, as in step S103, the original image data to be converted into a spreadsheet file is acquired (step S303). The CPU 11 analyzes the image data to be converted and extracts a plurality of table areas (step S304). It is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas are arranged in the column direction in the same range in the row direction among the extracted table areas (step S305). If a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the column direction (step S305; No), the process proceeds to step S309.

  If a plurality of table regions exist side by side in the column direction (step S305; Yes), each ruled line and ruled line position in the column direction of each table is acquired (step S306), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S306). Step S307). Next, a ruled line position correction process (2) is performed in the column direction based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the column direction specified in step S302 (step S308).

  FIG. 9 shows the details of the ruled line position correction process (2) performed in step S308 and step S313 described later. The basic flow of this process is the same when processing the column direction and when processing the row direction. The ruled line in this process means a ruled line in the column direction when performing the process in the column direction, and a ruled line in the column direction when performing the process in the row direction.

First, a set with the smallest difference in ruled line position is extracted from the set of ruled lines that satisfy the following conditions (step S341).
Condition 1: Two ruled lines belonging to different tables.
Condition 2: At least one of the ruled line positions is uncorrected.

  If the corresponding ruled line pair is not extracted (step S342; No), the process is terminated.

  When the corresponding ruled line set is extracted (step S342; Yes), it is checked whether or not the difference between the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines belonging to the set is within the change allowable range (step S343). If it is not within the allowable change range (step S343; No), this process is terminated. In other words, if the change is not within the allowable change range, there is no set having a smaller ruled line position difference, and the ruled line position correction process is terminated at this point.

  If it is within the allowable change range (step S343; Yes), it is checked whether or not both of the two ruled lines are uncorrected (there is no correction history) (step S344). If both ruled line positions have not been corrected (step S344; Yes), the ruled line that minimizes the number of cells whose cell size is reduced when the ruled line position is corrected is selected, and the position of the ruled line is set to the other ruled line. The ruled line position is corrected (step S345). Then, the correction history of both ruled lines is set to corrected (with correction) (step S346), and the process returns to step S341 to continue the processing. By selecting the ruled line to be moved so that the number of cells with a small cell size is reduced and correcting the ruled line position, it is possible to minimize the influence on the character displayed in the cell.

  If only one of the ruled line positions is uncorrected (step S344; No), the ruled line position of the ruled line without the correction history is corrected to the ruled line position of the other ruled line (step S347), and the corrected ruled line correction history is corrected. (Step S348), the process returns to step S341 to continue the process.

  Returning to FIG. In step S309, the spreadsheet cell being generated (the position and width of each cell in the row direction) is set according to the corrected ruled line position in the column direction. If a plurality of tables are not arranged in the column direction (step S305; No), step S306 is performed to recognize the ruled line position, and according to the ruled line position, the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (each row direction Cell position and width).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction in the same range in the column direction among the plurality of table areas extracted in step S304 (step S310). If a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the row direction (step S310; No), the process proceeds to step S314.

  If a plurality of table regions exist side by side in the row direction (step S310; Yes), each ruled line and ruled line position in the row direction of each table is acquired (step S311), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S311). Step S312).

  Next, a ruled line position correction process (2) is performed in the row direction based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the row direction specified in step S301 (step S313).

  In step S314, the spreadsheet cell being generated (the position and height of each cell in the column direction) is set in accordance with the ruled line position after correction in the row direction. If a plurality of tables are not arranged in the row direction (step S310; No), step S311 is performed to recognize the ruled line position in the row direction, and the cell (row) of the spreadsheet being generated is identified according to the ruled line position. Set the position and width of each cell in the direction.

  Thereafter, the frame of the cell corresponding to the ruled line of each table is set to be colored (step S315), and this process is terminated.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of correcting the ruled line position by the spreadsheet data generating apparatus according to the third embodiment. In the first process P21, a set of ruled lines 72 in the table 70 and ruled lines 82 in the lower table 80 is extracted in step S341 in FIG. Both the ruled line 72 and the ruled line 82 have no correction history. In this case, when the ruled line 72 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 82, the number of cells with a smaller cell size is smaller (three), so the ruled line 72 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 82. Both ruled lines 72 and 82 are set to have a correction history.

  In the second process P22, a set of ruled lines 71 in the table 70 and ruled lines 81 in the lower table 80 is extracted in step S341 in FIG. Both the ruled line 71 and the ruled line 81 have no correction history. In this case, when the ruled line 81 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 71, the number of cells with a smaller cell size is smaller (0), so the ruled line 81 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 71. Both ruled lines 71 and 81 are set to have a correction history.

  In the third process P23, a set of ruled lines 74 in the table 70 and ruled lines 83 in the lower table 80 is extracted in step S341 in FIG. Both the ruled line 74 and the ruled line 83 have no correction history. In this case, when the ruled line 83 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 74, the number of cells with a smaller cell size is smaller (0), so the ruled line 83 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 74. Both ruled lines 74 and 83 are set to have a correction history.

  In the fourth process P24, a set of ruled lines 73 in the table 70 and ruled lines 82 in the lower table 80 is extracted in step S341 in FIG. The ruled line 82 has a correction history, and the ruled line 73 has no correction history. In this case, since the difference between the ruled line 82 and the ruled line 73 exceeds the allowable change range, no correction is made. Since there are no more combinations within the allowable change range, the processing is terminated.

  FIG. 11 shows a spreadsheet (upper sheet in FIG. 11) generated by a conventional method that does not correct the ruled line position, and a spreadsheet (lower sheet in FIG. 11) generated in the third embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing shown by contrasting. In a spreadsheet (upper sheet) in which the ruled line position is not corrected, cells with a very small width are required, and the number of divided cells is large. On the other hand, the spreadsheet (lower sheet) generated in the third embodiment and cells having a minute width are not required, and the number of divided cells is reduced. Further, the number of cells whose cell size is reduced by the correction is small (only three cells between the ruled line 72 and the ruled line 73 in Table 70).

<Fourth embodiment>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating spreadsheet data generation processing performed by the spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the reference table is sequentially replaced.

  First, the user receives the specification of the change allowable range for the ruled line in the row direction (step S401) and the specification of the change allowable range for the ruled line in the column direction (step S402) through the operation unit 19.

  Next, original image data to be converted into a spreadsheet format file is acquired (step S403). The CPU 11 analyzes the image data to be converted and extracts a plurality of table areas (step S404). Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas are present in the column range in the same range in the row direction among the extracted table areas (step S405). If a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the column direction (step S405; No), the process proceeds to step S412.

  When a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the column direction (step S405; Yes), each ruled line and ruled line position in the column direction of each table is acquired (step S406), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S406). Step S407).

  Next, the number of ruled lines in the column direction is totaled for each table, and the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the column direction is set as the reference table (step S408). Based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the column direction specified in step S402 and the reference table, the same ruled line position correction process (1) as in FIG. 3 is performed for the column direction (step S409).

  It is determined whether the ruled line position correction processing has been completed using all the tables in the column direction as the reference table (step S410). If not completed (step S410; No), another rule that has not yet been set in the reference table. The table is set as a reference table (step S411), and the process returns to step S409 to perform ruled line position correction processing (1).

  When the ruled line position correction processing is completed using all the tables in the column direction as the reference table (step S410; Yes), the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (the cell of each cell in the row direction is changed according to the corrected ruled line position in the column direction. (Position and width) are set (step S412). In step S409, the spreadsheet cell being generated (the position and width of each cell in the row direction) is set according to the corrected ruled line position in the column direction. If a plurality of tables are not arranged in the column direction (step S405; No), step S406 is performed to recognize the ruled line position, and according to the ruled line position, the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (each row direction Cell position and width).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction in the same range in the column direction among the plurality of table areas extracted in step S404 (step S413). When a plurality of table areas do not exist side by side in the row direction (step S413; No), the process proceeds to step S420.

  When a plurality of table areas exist side by side in the row direction (step S413; Yes), the ruled lines and ruled line positions in the row direction of each table are acquired (step S414), and these ruled lines are classified for each table (step S414). Step S415).

  Next, the number of ruled lines in the row direction is totaled for each table, and the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the row direction is set as the reference table (step S416). Based on the change allowable range for the ruled line in the row direction specified in step S401 and the reference table, the ruled line position correction process (1) in FIG. 3 is performed in the row direction (step S417).

  It is determined whether or not the ruled line position correction process has been completed using all the tables in the row direction as the reference table (step S418). If not completed (step S418; No), it is still set as the reference table in the process in the row direction. Another table that has not been set is set as the reference table (step S419), and the process returns to step S417 to perform the ruled line position correction process (1).

  When the ruled line position correction processing is completed using all the tables in the row direction as the reference table (step S418; Yes), the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (the cell of each cell in the column direction is changed according to the ruled line position after the correction in the row direction. The position and height are set (step S420). If a plurality of tables are not arranged in the row direction (step S413; No), step S414 is performed to recognize the ruled line position, and according to the ruled line position, the cell of the spreadsheet being generated (each column direction) Cell position and width).

  Next, the cell frame corresponding to the ruled line of each table is set to be colored (step S421), and this process is terminated.

  FIG. 13 shows how the ruled line position is further corrected by changing the reference table. In the state P31 of FIG. 13, the table 90 is a reference table, and the ruled line 101 of the table 100 allows the difference between the ruled lines to be changed regardless of whether the ruled line 91 of the table 90 is the reference line or the ruled line 92 is the reference line. The ruled line position remains uncorrected because it exceeds the range. Similarly, the ruled line position of the table 110 remains uncorrected because the difference between the ruled lines exceeds the change allowable range when the ruled line 91 or the ruled line 92 of the table 90 is used as the reference line.

  Next, in the state P32 in which the table 100 is selected as the reference table, when the ruled line 101 of the table 100 is used as a reference line, the difference between the ruled line 111 of the table 110 and the reference line 101 is within the change allowable range, and the position of the ruled line 101 To be corrected. In this way, by switching the reference table, it is possible to reduce ruled lines that remain uncorrected.

  As described above, according to the present invention, spreadsheet data (spreadsheet format file) with cell settings suitable for the intended use can be created. In particular, when the usage is intended to be edited, the priority of the original manuscript table size and layout faithful reproducibility is lowered to allow for a slight deviation from the original manuscript for reuse. It is possible to create a spreadsheet format file that emphasizes sex. On the other hand, it is necessary to faithfully represent the original document depending on the usage, and when the change in position is not allowed, the cell can be finely separated and faithfully expressed by setting the change allowable range small. In other words, depending on the size of the allowable change range to be set, it is possible to flexibly cope with whether editing is appropriate or priority is given to strictness, and spreadsheet data suitable for use can be generated.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to that shown in the embodiment, and there are changes and additions within the scope of the present invention. Are also included in the present invention.

  In the embodiment, the image processing apparatus 10 has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any apparatus having a function as the spreadsheet data generation apparatus described in each embodiment may be used. The present invention may also be a program for causing an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer to function as the spreadsheet data generation apparatus described in each embodiment.

  The embodiment exemplifies a case where the ruled line position is corrected by moving one of the two ruled lines in the set to the position of the other ruled line, or both ruled lines are moved to an intermediate (average) position between the two ruled lines. However, the movement of the ruled line is not limited to this. For example, if there are a large number of tables and there are multiple ruled line pairs whose difference is within the allowable change range for one reference line, the average of all ruled line positions related to these multiple sets is used as the corrected ruled line position. Also good.

  In the embodiment, the spreadsheet data is generated from the table included in the image data (image data) obtained by reading the document by the image reading unit 13. For example, one of two spreadsheets already existing in the file format is used. The present invention is also applied to cases such as those described above.

  Further, the change allowable range may be set in a plurality of stages. For example, when a plurality of front documents having the same layout are read by the image reading unit 13, the position of the front may be slightly shifted on the read image data. In such a case, a change allowable range (for example, 1 mm) corresponding to this minute shift is set to correct the ruled line position, and then a change allowable range (for example, 5 mm) for compensating for the actual cell shift. Set the ruled line position. At this time, for example, the number of ruled lines whose positions are to be corrected is limited. In this way, it is possible to eliminate all the minute misalignments and limit the number of locations where the ruled line position is largely corrected to a predetermined number or less.

  The change allowable range may be changed according to the cell size or the number of cells. For example, the permissible change range may be changed according to the size of the cell that includes the ruled line to be moved in the frame line and is located on the moving direction side of the ruled line. For example, when a certain ruled line is moved to the right, the size of the change allowable range is changed according to the size of a cell that includes the ruled line in one of the frame lines and is on the right side of the ruled line. What is necessary is just to make a change tolerance range large, so that the said cell is large. In other words, the change allowable range is increased as the size of the cell that is reduced by moving the ruled line (the size of the cell in the ruled line movement direction) is increased, and the change allowable range is decreased as the size of the cell that is reduced by moving the ruled line is decreased. Make it smaller.

  In the example of FIG. 14A, the difference between the ruled line 122 of the table 120 and the ruled line 132 of the table 130 exceeds the allowable change range A, so the position of the ruled line cannot be corrected. However, as shown in FIG. When the cell in the movement direction (left side in this example) is large, the change allowable range is expanded like the change allowable range B according to the size of the cell. As a result, the difference between the positions of the ruled line 132 and the ruled line 122 falls within the change allowable range B, and the position of the ruled line 132 is corrected to the position of the ruled line 122.

  In addition, the change allowable range may be changed according to the number of characters in the cell and the margin size with respect to the cell size. That is, the change allowable range is increased as the cell size margin (margin) increases with respect to the characters in the cell. Further, the change allowable range may be limited to a range in which characters can be accommodated in the cell.

  In the embodiment, one reference table is set for the entire range of the spreadsheet, but a reference table may be provided for each area. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, in the area A where the tables 140 and 150 are arranged in the column direction, the table 140 is a reference table, and in the area B where the tables 160 and 150 are arranged in the column direction, the table 160 is a reference table. , Etc. When the table with the most ruled lines is used as the reference table, the reference table may be determined for each area according to the number of ruled lines for each area.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Image processing apparatus 11 ... CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 12 ... Bus 13 ... Image reading part 14 ... Image forming part 15 ... ROM
16 ... RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 17 ... Non-volatile memory 18 ... Display part 19 ... Operation part 21 ... Image processing part 22 ... Network I / F part 23 ... Hard disk apparatus 40, 50, 70, 80 ... Table 41, 42, 43, 44 ... Ruled line 51, 52, 53, ... Ruled lines 64, 65 ... Ruled lines 71, 72, 73, 74 ... Ruled lines 81, 82, 83 ... Ruled lines 90, 100, 110, 120, 130 ... Tables 91, 92, 101, 111, 121, 122, 131, 132: Ruled lines 140, 150, 160 ... Table

Claims (17)

Each ruled line and ruled line position of a plurality of tables arranged on one spreadsheet are acquired and classified for each table.
When a set of two ruled lines belonging to different tables is selected from the acquired ruled lines, and the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines are different and the difference is within a predetermined change allowable range, the two ruled lines One or both of the ruled line positions are moved, and the integration process for integrating the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines into one ruled line position is performed for one or more sets.
Spreadsheet data in which cells are set in accordance with the ruled line position after completion of the integration process is generated. A plurality of tables in which a plurality of tables are detected from one page of image data including a plurality of tables or a plurality of pages of image data each including a table, and the detected plurality of tables are arranged on the one spreadsheet. The spreadsheet data generation device according to claim 1, wherein the spreadsheet data generation device is processed as follows. Decide on a standard table,
The spreadsheet data generation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ruled lines belonging to the reference table and the ruled lines belonging to another table are set as the set. When performing the integration in the column direction, the table with the largest number of ruled lines in the column direction is determined as the reference table,
4. The spreadsheet data generation device according to claim 3, wherein when the integration is performed in the row direction, the table having the largest number of ruled lines in the row direction is determined as the reference table. 5. The spreadsheet data generation device according to claim 3, wherein the integration process is performed again by changing a reference table. 6. The ruled line position of another table is aligned with the ruled line position of the reference table ruled line, out of the two ruled lines in the set. 6. Spreadsheet data generator. The spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines in the set are integrated into an intermediate position thereof. Of the two ruled lines in the set, a cell whose size is reduced when the ruled line position of one ruled line is moved to the ruled line position of the other ruled line, and the moved ruled line is included in the frame line. The spreadsheet data generation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the integration is performed using a ruled line having a smaller number as a moving ruled line. The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the integration processing is performed in preference to a set having a small difference. The integration process is repeated until the number of cells falls below a predetermined upper limit number, and when the number of cells does not decrease even if the integration process is performed within the current allowable change range, the change allowable range is expanded. The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The spread according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a change allowable range used in the row direction integration process and a change allowable range used in the column direction integration process can be individually set. Sheet data generation device. The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the integration processing is performed for both directions in the order of the column direction and the row direction, or in the order of the row direction and the column direction. When the plurality of tables exist only in the column direction, the integration process is performed only in the column direction,
The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein when the plurality of tables exist only in a row direction, the integration processing is performed only in the row direction. The spreadsheet data generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the change allowable range is set in a plurality of stages. The change allowable range is changed according to a size of a cell that includes a ruled line to be moved in a frame line and is on the side to be moved of the ruled line. Spreadsheet data generator. In the process of integrating the ruled lines in the column direction, the spreadsheet is divided into multiple areas along the boundary line in the column direction, and a standard table is set for each area.
6. In the integration process of ruled lines in the row direction, the spreadsheet is divided into a plurality of areas at the border line in the row direction, and a reference table is set for each area. The described spreadsheet data generation device. Information processing device
A function of acquiring each ruled line and ruled line position of a plurality of tables to be arranged on one spreadsheet and classifying them for each table;
When a set of two ruled lines belonging to different tables is selected from the acquired ruled lines, and the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines are different and the difference is within a predetermined change allowable range, the two ruled lines A function of performing integration processing for one or more sets by moving one or both ruled line positions and integrating the ruled line positions of the two ruled lines into one ruled line position;
A function of generating spreadsheet data in which cells are set according to the ruled line position after the integration process is completed;
A program characterized by having executed.