JPH1155500A - Image processing unit and its method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a more natural visual image by properly controlling resolution of area data in response to a capacity of a memory provided to the image processing unit and a designation state of an area in the image processing unit controlling image processing based on the designated area. SOLUTION: An area extract section 1105 generates area data corresponding to 400 dpi from an image (400 dpi) whose area is designated by a marker pen or the like. A resolution setting section 1106 sets the resolution to be 200 dpi or 100 dpi. An area data storage section 1107 converts resolution of area data into the set resolution and generates an area code and stores it to an area memory 313. In the case of generating a visual image by an image generating section 1104, an area data read section 1108 reads the area code synchronously with image data from the area memory 313 and converts the resolution into a resolution of 400 dpi and transfers the resulting data to a data synthesis section 1103. The data synthesis section 1103 processes the image data (40O dpi) based on the area code and provides an output of the processed data to the image generating section 1104.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention makes it possible to generate area data in a memory in advance and perform image processing based on the area data generated in the memory in synchronization with the transfer of the image data during image processing. The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a control method thereof.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there are apparatuses having an image editing function such as a digital color copying machine. This type of device has an area memory as a memory for area editing. A process of outputting an area signal previously developed in the area memory in synchronization with the image at the time of generating the image and switching each function using the output signal is widely used. As a method of specifying an area, a method of directly specifying an area with a pen or a marker using a pen input or a color marker with a digitizer, or a method of specifying a closed loop area surrounded by an image (a straight line, a curve, or the like) on a document is used. There are methods.

[0003]

However, in the above conventional example, the capacity of the area memory requires 4 Mbytes per page at A3 size and a resolution of 400 dpi, and the number of pages increases as the number of areas subjected to different processing increases. As a result, the required memory capacity increases. Therefore, in order to reduce the required memory capacity, it is common to generate an area with a lower resolution than the image signal. However, when the resolution is reduced in this way, a problem such as the rattling of diagonal lines or the like being noticeable as compared with the image occurs. In particular, in a region specifying method in which an image is read and the inside of a closed loop is filled, the resolution of the memory is lower than the resolution of the image, so that a thin line or a narrow gap having a certain thickness or less in the image cannot be captured.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above conventional example. In an image processing apparatus for controlling image processing based on a designated area, an image processing apparatus according to a memory capacity provided in the apparatus and a designated state of an area. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus and method capable of providing a more natural visible image while appropriately controlling the resolution of area data and reducing the required memory capacity. Another object is to efficiently store area data at a resolution corresponding to the area mode.

[0005]

An image processing apparatus according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following arrangement. That is, generating means for generating area data corresponding to a first resolution based on a specified area, and specifying means for specifying one resolution from at least two types of resolutions lower than the first resolution A storage unit that converts the area data generated by the generation unit to a resolution specified by the specification unit and stores the converted data; and when processing image data corresponding to the first resolution, the storage unit Converting the resolution of the stored area data to the first resolution;
Processing means for processing the image data based on the obtained area data.

Preferably, the generating means generates area data corresponding to the first resolution based on area specifying information input from an external device. The area can be specified from an external device, and the area can be specified more flexibly.

[0007] Preferably, the generation means generates the area data by extracting an area written with a marker pen on a document image. Since the area can be written on the document image with the marker pen, the area can be easily specified.

Preferably, the designation means designates one of at least two types of resolutions lower than the first resolution by an operation input by a user. This is because the user can specify a desired resolution.

Preferably, the designating means designates a resolution based on a shape of an area indicated by the area data. The resolution of the area data is appropriately set according to the shape of the specified area, and the operability is improved. For example, if the specified area is a rectangle, it is determined that a high resolution is unnecessary as the area data, and a lower resolution is specified.
On the other hand, if the specified area is not rectangular (for example, an arc), a higher resolution is specified to more accurately reproduce the curve of the specified area.

Preferably, the generation means generates a plurality of area data corresponding to a plurality of types of processing contents,
The specifying means specifies a resolution based on the number of types of the processing contents. When preparing area data according to the type of processing to be applied to a specified area, the required memory capacity increases as the number of processing types increases, but by adopting the above configuration, the required memory capacity is increased. , The resolution of the area data is appropriately set.

[0011]

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment] (Configuration of Main Body) FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view for explaining the configuration of a color image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The color image forming apparatus of the present embodiment has a digital color image reader unit at the top and a digital color image printer unit at the bottom.

In the reader section, an original 30 is placed on an original table glass 31, and a known original scanning unit including an exposure lamp 32 is driven by an optical reading drive motor 35 to a predetermined fixed magnification determined in accordance with a preset copying magnification. Exposure scanning is performed at a speed. Then, the reflected light image from the original 30 is transmitted to the lens 3.
The light is condensed on a full-color sensor (CCD) 34 by 3 to obtain a color-separated image signal. As this full-color sensor, three-line CCDs provided with R (red), G (green), and B (blue) filters arranged adjacent to each other are used. The color-separated image signal is subjected to image processing in an image processing unit 36 and a controller unit 37, and is sent to a printer unit.

An operation section is provided around the platen glass 31, and switches for setting various modes related to a copy sequence, a display for display, and a display are arranged.

In the printer section, a photosensitive drum 1, which is an image holding member, is rotatably supported in the direction of an arrow. Around the photosensitive drum 1, a pre-exposure lamp 11, a corona charger 2, a laser exposure optical system 3, a potential sensor 12, four developing units 4y, 4c, 4m, 4Bk of different colors, and a light amount detecting unit 1 on the drum
3. The transfer device 5 and the cleaning device 6 are arranged.

In the laser exposure optical system 3, an image signal from a reader section is converted into an optical signal by a laser output section (not shown), and the converted laser light is reflected by a polygon mirror 3a, and is converted into a lens 3b and a mirror. 3c, and is projected on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1.

At the time of image formation in the printer section, the photosensitive drum 1 is rotated in the direction of the arrow, and the photosensitive drum 1 after having been neutralized by the pre-exposure lamp 11 is uniformly charged by the charger 2 so as to emit light for each separated color. An image E (laser light) is irradiated to form a latent image.

Next, by operating a predetermined developing device, the latent image on the photosensitive drum 1 is developed, and a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 1 using a resin-based toner. The developer is
The operation of the eccentric cams 24y, 24m, 24c, 24Bk allows the photosensitive drum 1 to be selectively approached in accordance with each separation color.

Further, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 1 is
The image is transferred from one of the preselected recording material cassettes 7a, b, and c to the recording material supplied to a position facing the photosensitive drum 1 via the conveyance system and the transfer device 5. The selection of the recording material cassette depends on the size of the recorded image and the pickup roller 27 based on a control signal from the controller 37.
This is performed by driving any one of a, b, and c.

In the present embodiment, the transfer device 5 includes a transfer drum 5a,
A transfer charger 5b, a suction roller 5g opposed to a suction charger 5c for electrostatically sucking the recording material, an inner charger 5d,
A recording material carrying sheet 5f made of a dielectric material is integrally stretched in a cylindrical shape in a peripheral opening area of a transfer drum 5a having an outer charger 5e and rotatably supported. .
The recording material supporting sheet 5f uses a dielectric sheet such as a polycarbonate film.

As the transfer device in the form of a drum, that is, the transfer drum 5a is rotated, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 1 is transferred onto a recording material carried on a recording material carrying sheet 5f by a transfer charger 5b.

As described above, a desired number of color images are transferred to the recording material sucked and conveyed to the recording material carrying sheet 5f, and a full-color image is formed.

In the case of forming a full-color image, when the transfer of the toner images of four colors is completed in this way, the recording material is separated from the transfer drum 5a by the action of the separation claw 8a, the separation push-up roller 8b and the separation charger 5h. The sheet is discharged to the tray 10 via the roller fixing device 9.

On the other hand, the post-transfer photosensitive drum 1 is subjected to the image forming process again after the residual toner on the surface is cleaned by the cleaning device 6.

When images are formed on both sides of a recording material,
Immediately after the fixing device 9 is ejected, the conveyance path switching guide 19 is driven, and once guided to the reversing path 21a via the conveyance vertical path 20, the rear end of the reversing roller 21b is moved forward by the reverse rotation of the reversing roller 21b. Then, it is retracted in the direction in which it is sent and in the determination direction, and is stored in the intermediate tray 22. Thereafter, an image is formed on the other surface again by the above-described image forming step.

Further, in order to prevent scattering of powder on the recording material carrying sheet 5f of the transfer drum 5a and adhesion of oil on the recording material, the fur brush 14 and the recording material carrying sheet 5f interpose the brush. 14, a backup brush 15, an oil removing roller 16, and a recording material carrying sheet 5.
Cleaning is performed by the action of the backup brush 17 opposing the roller 16 via f. Such cleaning is performed before or after image formation, and at any time when a jam (paper jam) occurs.

In the present embodiment, the eccentric cam 25 is operated at a desired timing, and the cam follower 5i integrated with the transfer drum 5f is operated, so that the gap between the recording material carrying sheet 5a and the photosensitive drum 1 is increased. Is arbitrarily settable. For example, during standby or when the power is off, the interval between the transfer drum and the photosensitive drum is increased.

(Image Processing Block) FIGS. 2A to 2C are block diagrams showing the image processing unit 36, the controller unit 37, and the controlled parts around it.

The full-color sensor (CCD) 34 has 10
It is composed of 1, 102, and 103 red, green, and blue three-line CCDs, and color-separates one line of light information from a document to R, G, B at a resolution of 400 dpi.
Output an electrical signal. In this embodiment, since a maximum of 297 mm (A4 length) is read as one line,
D outputs an image signal of 4677 pixels per line for each of R, G, and B.

Reference numeral 104 denotes a synchronization signal generation circuit (FIG. 2)
C), and comprises a main scanning address counter, a sub scanning address counter, and the like. The main scanning address counter is a BD signal which is a synchronization signal of laser recording for each line on the photosensitive drum.
The signal is cleared line by line, and the VCLK signal from the pixel clock generator 105 is counted.
4 generates a count output H-ADR corresponding to each pixel of the image information of one line read from 4. This H-AD
R counts up from 0 to 5000, and the image signal (4677 pixels) for one line from the CCD 34 can be sufficiently read. In addition, the synchronization signal generation circuit 104 outputs various timing signals such as a line synchronization signal LSYNC, a main scanning effective section signal VE and a sub-scanning effective section signal PE of an image signal.

Reference numeral 106 denotes a CCD drive signal generation unit (FIG. 2A) which decodes the H-ADR signal from the synchronization signal generation circuit 104 to generate a CCD shift pulse, and sets a CCD-DRIVE as a set pulse or a transfer clock. Generate a signal. This allows the CCD to synchronize with VCLK,
R, G, and B color separation image signals for the same pixel are sequentially output. An A / D converter 107 converts each of the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) image signals into an 8-bit digital signal.

Reference numeral 150 denotes a shading correction circuit.
This is a circuit for correcting variations in signal output for each pixel in the CCD. The shading correction circuit 150
Each line of R, G, and B signals has a memory for one line, and stores image data obtained by reading an image of a white plate having a predetermined density by an optical system. The shading correction circuit 150 uses the stored image data as a reference signal for shading correction.

Reference numeral 151 denotes a sub-scanning connection circuit, which is a CCD.
34 is a circuit for absorbing the displacement of the image signal read by the scanning line in the sub-scanning direction by eight lines. Reference numeral 152 denotes an input masking circuit, which is a circuit for removing color turbidity of the input signals R, G, and B.

Reference numerals 153, 163 and 167 denote buffers through which image signals pass when the ZO-ED signal is at the L level.
When the ZO-ED signal is at the H level, the image signal is blocked. Normally, the level is at the L level when the editing function is used.

Reference numeral 154 denotes an editing circuit which performs a specified editing process on an area specified by a marker pen or the like. In the editing circuit 154, a smoothing circuit 155 is a filter for smoothing an image signal, and performs a 5 × 5 matrix operation. Reference numeral 156 denotes a color conversion circuit which converts an RGB image signal into HSL color space coordinates (lightness, saturation, hue), converts a previously designated color into another designated color, and converts the RGB color signal again into RGB. It has the function of returning to the color space. It is also possible to convert a multi-value signal into a binary signal at a fixed threshold value.

Reference numeral 159 denotes an external device, which comprises a memory device for storing image signals up to A3 size, a computer for controlling the memory device, and the like. The external device 1
The 59 image signals are red, green, blue (RG
B) Input / output in the form of a signal, a cyan, magenta, yellow, black (CMYK) signal, or a binary signal.

Reference numeral 158 denotes an interface (I / F) circuit for adjusting the timing and speed of the image signal from the external device 159 and the internal image signal.
An area generation circuit 160 generates and stores an area designated by an editor or the like. A MARKER signal obtained by extracting an image of a marker pen or the like drawn on the document is also stored in the memory as an area area. Also CCD
An SC-BI signal obtained by binarizing the image signal read at 34 is used as a Z-BI output signal as a binary image signal. The area memory writing unit and the memory reading unit of the area generation circuit 160 will be described later in detail.

Reference numeral 157 denotes an RGB synthesizing circuit.
4 and the external device 159
This is a circuit for synthesizing the RGB image signals from. Also, the RGB image signal from the CCD 34 and the external device 159
Can also be combined with the binary image from.

The area for synthesizing the image is determined by the area generation circuit 16.
It is specified by the AREA signal from 0 or by the IPU-BI signal from the external device 159. In addition, the composition can be replaced composition in which the image signal from the CCD 34 and the external image signal are independently composed for each area, or watermark composition in which two images are simultaneously superimposed and combined. In this watermark synthesis,
It is also possible to specify a watermark rate of how much of the two images is to be watermarked and synthesized.

Reference numeral 161 denotes a contour generating circuit,
The SC-BI signal obtained by binarizing the image signal read by the CPU or the IPU-B which is binary data from the external device 159
The contour is extracted from the I signal or the binary data Z-BI signal from the area generation circuit 160 to generate a shadow.

162 is a black character determination circuit (FIG. 2)
B), the characteristics of the input image signal are determined, and eight kinds of character thickness signals (thick character degree) FTMJ and edge signals EDG
E. Output a color signal IRO.

Reference numeral 108 denotes a color space compression circuit which performs the following matrix operation.

[0043]

(Equation 1)

Here, X represents the minimum value of R, G, and B.

By setting in advance whether or not to perform color space compression in the color space compression circuit 108, ON / OFF of color space compression is performed by the area signal AREA.
Can be switched.

Reference numeral 109 denotes a light intensity-density conversion unit (hereinafter, LOG)
A conversion unit), which converts red, green, and blue 8-bit light intensity signals into 8-bit density signals of cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y) by logarithmic conversion. 110 is an output masking processing unit which has a known UC
The R processing (under color removal processing) extracts a black density signal from the density signals of the three colors C, M, and Y, and performs a known masking operation for removing color turbidity of the developer corresponding to each density signal. M ′,
From the density signals of C ', Y', and K ', the selector 11
1 selects a color signal corresponding to the developer currently used. The ZO-TONER signal is a 2-bit signal generated from the CPU 130 for this color selection.
When the O-TONER is 0, the M 'signal is output from the ZO-TO
When the NER is 1, the C 'signal is output as the READ-DT signal, when the ZO-TONER is 2, the Y' signal is output, and when the ZO-TONER is 3, the K 'signal is output as the READ-DT signal.

Reference numeral 112 denotes a sampling circuit which samples the input image signals R, G, B and the density signal ND generated from the R, G, B signals for every four pixels and serially samples R, G, B, Output as ND signal. The density signal ND is represented by, for example, (R + G + B) / 3. When sampling is performed by the sampling circuit 112, the LOG conversion unit 109 is set to through.

Reference numeral 113 denotes a selector, which selects the image signal READ-DT when the SMP-SL signal is set to the L level by the CPU 130, and selects the sampling signal SMP- when the SMP-SL signal is set to the H level.
Select and output DT.

Reference numeral 164 denotes a CMYK synthesis circuit,
34 is a circuit for synthesizing the image signal read by the C. 34 and the CMYK format image signal input from the external device 159. When performing CMYK synthesis, a color signal corresponding to the developer currently used is input from the external device 159 one page at a time in accordance with the image signal from the CCD 34.
The area to be synthesized is A as in the case of the RGB synthesis circuit 157.
Switching is performed by the REA signal or the IPU-BI signal. Similarly, watermark synthesis is also possible.

Reference numeral 165 denotes a coloring circuit which performs processing such as adding a preset color to a monochrome image, for example. In addition, coloring can be performed on the binary image signal IPU-BI from the external device 159. Further, it is also possible to create a gradation pattern in which the gradation gradually changes.

An F value correction circuit 166 performs gamma processing according to the development characteristics of the printer and can set the density for each mode. 114 is a variable power circuit,
It has a memory for one line of an image signal, and performs diagonal processing for enlarging and reducing the image signal in the main scanning direction and outputting the image obliquely. At the time of sampling, the sampling data is stored in a memory and used for creating a histogram.

Reference numeral 168 denotes a texture circuit, which is a CCD3.
The color image signal read in 4 is combined with a pattern obtained by binarizing the image signal read in advance by the CCD 34 or a binary pattern input from the external device 159 and output.

In FIG. 2C, reference numerals 169 and 170 denote a smoothing circuit and an edge emphasis circuit, respectively.
It consists of a × 5 filter. Reference numeral 171 denotes an add-on circuit which superimposes a specific coded pattern on an image signal and outputs the image signal. Reference numeral 115 denotes a laser and a laser controller, which is an 8-bit density signal VIDEO.
The light emission amount of the laser is controlled according to the signal. This laser light is scanned in the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 1 by the polygon mirror 3a to form a one-line electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 1. 1
Reference numeral 16 denotes a photodetector provided in proximity to the photosensitive drum 1, which detects the passage of laser light immediately before scanning the photosensitive drum 1 and generates a one-line synchronization signal BD.

Reference numeral 172 denotes an area LUT (look-up table) circuit,
Each mode is set according to the A signal. Area LUT1
The LOGCD signal output from the LOG conversion unit 10
9 is switched to a through setting or the like. The UCRCD signal controls trimming and masking in the output masking processing unit 110. Further, the FCD signal changes the magnitude of the F value of the F value correction circuit 166. The ACD6 signal is sent to the coloring circuit 165, the NCD signal is sent to the MCYK synthesizing circuit 164, and the KCD signal is sent to the black character LUT.
Each of the circuits 172 is connected to the circuit 172, and sets various modes.

Reference numeral 173 denotes a black character LUT, which performs various processes according to the output of the black character determination circuit 162. For example, UC
The R-SL signal is developed by changing the UCR amount of the output masking circuit 110 and developing the image by increasing the amount of black and decreasing the amounts of C, M, and Y in an area determined to be a darker character. Perform processing. The EDGE-SL signal is input to a smoothing circuit 169 and an edge enhancement circuit 170,
A setting is made to switch to a filter such that the edge of the black character region is emphasized in the region. Furthermore, black letter LUT
The SNS-SL signal output from 173 is input to the laser controller 115, and the laser controller 115 switches the number of lines between 400 and 200 lines under PWM control. In other words, development is performed with 400 lines to increase the resolution in an area determined to be a black character, and development is performed with 200 lines in other image areas to increase the gradation.

Reference numeral 118 denotes a photo sensor, which is a transfer drum 5
a has reached a predetermined position, and the AND gate 12
0, a page synchronization signal ITOP is generated via the OR gate 119, and the sub-scanning address counter of the synchronization signal generation circuit 104 is initialized and input to the CPU 130.
Reference numeral 130 denotes a CPU, which controls image reading and image recording operations. 131 is an optical system reading drive motor 35
Is a controller that controls forward / reverse movement and speed of the vehicle. Reference numeral 132 denotes an I / O port for controlling other sensors and actuators required for controlling the copying operation. P for feeding paper from a paper cassette into this I / O port
The F signal is also included. As other signals, the size of the paper is detected by a paper size sensor (not shown) attached to the paper cassette, and is input to the CPU 130 from the I / O port 132. Reference numeral 51 denotes an operation unit for instructing the number of copies and various operation modes.

A ROM 133 stores various control programs executed by the CPU 130 and predetermined set values. Reference numeral 134 denotes a RAM that temporarily stores data and stores newly set values and the like.

(Area Generation Circuit) FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a memory writing section of the area generation circuit 160.

The input signal VI1 corresponds to the MARKER signal in FIG. 2A, is an image signal of 400 dpi, and receives four types of binarized image signals. Reference numeral 300 denotes a line memory (FIFO), which can store data for 5120 pixels. The signal VI1 is delayed by one line by the FIFO 300 to generate the signal VI2. Reference numeral 301 denotes an isolated point removing unit which includes a flip-flop (F / F) and an AND gate, and removes an isolated point of one pixel of the signal VI1.
The isolated point removing unit 302 has the same configuration as the isolated point removing unit 301, and removes an isolated point of one pixel of VI2. 301
The outputs of the circuits 302 and 302 are input to an AND gate 303.

Reference numeral 304 denotes a circuit for ORing signals of four pixels, which is composed of four flip-flops and an OR gate. 315 is a selector, which is a select signal M
The ODE signal is switched by the CPU for each function mode. When the MODE signal is 0, it functions as 100 dpi mode, and when the MODE signal is 1, it functions as 200 dpi mode.

Reference numeral 305 denotes an OR gate, and 306 denotes an AND gate. A FIFO 308 can store data for 5120 pixels. A circuit 307 controls a signal from the FIFO 308 by an AND gate 306.
In the 100 dpi mode, the AND gate 306 is enabled by three lines every four lines, and in the 200 dpi mode, the AND gate 306 is always disabled. Then, the OR gate 305 outputs the image signal of 16 pixels, that is, 4 pixels each in the main scanning direction and the sub scanning direction in the 100 dpi mode. 30
Reference numeral 9 denotes a control circuit of the FIFO 309, which generates a read enable signal and a write enable signal.

Reference numeral 310 denotes a serial / parallel conversion circuit. In the 100 dpi mode, a quarter pixel clock (a clock having a period four times as long as the pixel clock) is supplied to the serial / parallel conversion circuit 310, so that the input signal is decimated by a factor of four and each of 16 images is reduced. The signals are combined into one. Further, in the 200 dpi mode, by supplying a half image clock, the input signals are thinned out to one half, and 16 image signals are combined into one. Further, the signal VO1 for 16 pixels is written into the area memory 313 at a time while timing is measured by the F / F 311 and the selector 312.

The select signal PS of the selector 312
L repeatedly selects 0, 1, 2, and 3 every eight pixel clocks. The timing at which VO1 is written to the area memory 313 is once every four lines and once every 64 pixel clocks (1/4 pixel clock × 16 pixels) in the 100 dpi mode. That is, the image signal is 100 dp
The image is equivalent to i. In the 200 dpi mode, 2
Once per line and once every 32 pixel clocks (１ pixel clock × 16 pixels). That is, since the image signal is thinned out to one half each in the main scanning and sub-scanning, 200
The image is equivalent to dpi. 314 is a page memory 313
And a write enable signal MW.
EN and address signals MAD, RAS, and CAS signals are generated.

FIG. 5A shows an address map when writing to the page memory in the 100 dpi mode. The area from address 8000h to FFFFFh is an area memory space, which is divided into four blocks each corresponding to each color of R, G, B and black. FIG. 5A shows an area memory 31 in the 200 dpi mode.
3 shows an address map when writing data to No. 3. R, G,
As needed, of each color of B and black, for example, R and black are separately written into two blocks.

FIG. 6A is a timing chart showing the timing of a control signal when data is written to the area memory 313 in the 100 dpi mode. FIG.
In A, the timing for every fourth line is shown, and 6
Four area image signals are written to different addresses every four clocks. In the 100 dpi mode, writing to the area memory 313 is not performed on the first, second, and third lines. That is, writing to the area memory 313 is performed for each line of 0, 4, 8,.

FIG. 6B is a timing chart showing the timing of a control signal when data is written to the page memory 313 in the 200 dpi mode. FIG.
In B, the timing for each second line is shown,
Two area image signals are written to different addresses every 32 clocks. In the 200 dpi mode, writing to the memory is not performed on the first line. That is, writing to the area memory 313 is performed for each line of 0, 2, 4, 6,...

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the memory read section of area generation circuit 160. First, a memory read operation in the 100 dpi mode will be described with reference to FIG.

Reference numeral 401 denotes eight flip-flops (F /
F). The image signal read from the area memory 313 is latched by one of the F / Fs 401 by switching the SLDI signal every eight clocks.
A parallel-to-serial conversion circuit 402 receives a quarter-pixel clock, and serially outputs the input image signals for 16 pixels, one pixel at a time. In the read image signal, signals of the same line are repeatedly output for four lines, and are updated every four lines. 403,404
Denotes a FIFO, which delays the image signal by one line and outputs the same image signal by four lines. Reference numerals 405 denote F / Fs, respectively, to which a quarter clock is input.

Reference numeral 406 denotes a resolution conversion circuit which interpolates a 3 × 3 area signal corresponding to 100 dpi to 400 d.
The signal is converted to a signal equivalent to pi. FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating a method of converting an area signal of 100 dpi into an area signal equivalent to 400 dpi. A to a represented by (a) in FIG.
i is a pattern of a 3 × 3 100 dpi area signal, and A to P in (b) of FIG. 7A correspond to an area signal equivalent to 400 dpi which is output after being converted in resolution by inputting a to i.

FIG. 5B shows an example of a memory map at the time of memory reading in the 100 dpi mode. Each of the eight blocks is assigned a region edited for each color. Here, the point represents an area edited after being designated by a point in advance, and the loop represents an area edited after being designated by a closed area in advance. Note that K is a black image area.

FIG. 8A is a timing chart at the time of memory reading in the 100 dpi mode. As shown in FIG. 8A, in the 100 dpi mode, image signals are read one by one from eight blocks with one cycle of 64 clocks. The address of the image to be read is 4
Updated for each line.

Next, a memory read operation peculiar to the 200 dpi mode will be described using the memory read circuit of FIG. A half clock is input to the parallel-to-serial conversion circuit 402, and an image signal for 16 pixels is serially output for each pixel. In the read image signal, signals of the same line are repeatedly output for two lines, and are updated every two lines. FIFO 403, 40
4 delays the image signal by one line and outputs the same image signal by two lines. F / F40
5 is supplied with a half clock.

The resolution conversion circuit 406 converts a 3 × 3 or 2 × 2 area signal equivalent to 200 dpi into a signal equivalent to 400 dpi while interpolating. A, b, d, and e represented by (a) in FIG. 7B are 2 × 2 200d
7B, and corresponds to an area signal corresponding to 400 dpi, which is output after being converted in resolution by inputting a, b, d, and e.

FIG. 5B shows an example of a memory map at the time of memory reading in the 200 dpi mode. An edited area of each required color is assigned to each of the two blocks.

FIG. 8B is a timing chart at the time of memory reading in the 200 dpi mode. As shown in FIG. 8B, in the 200 dpi mode, image signals are read one by one from two blocks every 32 clocks. The address of the image to be read is updated every two lines.

(Sequence) Next, the control procedure in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a printing procedure according to the first embodiment. First, an arbitrary area to be edited of a black-and-white document is marked in advance with a color marker or the like (for example, a red marker). An original is set on an original platen, and a normal area mode or a high definition area mode is selected by the operation unit 51 or the like (step S901). At this time, in the normal mode, the mode becomes the 100 dpi mode in which the area processing is fast, and in the high-definition mode, the area processing can be finely performed.
It becomes pi mode.

When the copy start key is pressed in step S902, the optical system including the CCD 34 pre-scans the original and reads an image signal in step S903.
The read RGB image signals are output in step S904.
After being converted into the HSL space by the color conversion circuit 156, the data is binarized by a threshold value within a certain range. Here, it is assumed that R (red) and Bk (black) image signals are binarized. This marker signal is input to the memory controller of the area generation circuit 160 in step S905, and an image signal whose resolution has been converted corresponding to each mode is written to the area memory for each color.

Then, in step S906, the CPU 130
Alternatively, the area controller searches the area memory for the address where the R image signal is written. Further, editing such as filling in the area surrounded by the address corresponding to the position of the red marker searched in step S907 is performed.
The area code signal is generated by performing such processing at other addresses. That is, the CPU or the area controller reads the scale of each area,
Editing such as filling is calculated, and writing is performed again in each area of 0000 to FFFF.

Next, in step S908, the optical system reads the original again, and the image signal is read. At the same time,
In step S909, the area code signal is read from the memory, output while being subjected to parallel-to-serial conversion, and resolution-converted to 400 dpi corresponding to each mode and output. Then, image editing corresponding to the area of the area code, for example, paint processing or the like is performed. Then, the image signal edited in step S910 is developed by the developing device and output to a sheet.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing operation according to the first embodiment. 1101
Denotes an image input unit, which reads data obtained by reading a document image by the CCD 34 and converts the data into an A / D converter 107;
Shading correction circuit 150, sub-scanning connection circuit 15
1, processed by the input masking circuit 152, 400
The input image data of dpi is obtained. The obtained input image data is input to the area extracting unit 1105, and the smoothing circuit 15
5 and the color conversion circuit 156, the region is extracted,
The extraction result is input to the area generation circuit 160 as an AREA signal. In the present embodiment, the AREA signal is 4 bits, and can specify an area corresponding to image processing for three colors of R, G, and B other than black.

Reference numeral 1106 denotes a resolution setting unit.
1 (in this example, either 100 dpi or 200 dpi) is notified to the area generation circuit 160.

The area generation circuit 160 has the area memory 3
13, an area data holding unit 1107 (FIG. 3) and an area data reading unit 1108 (FIG. 4). The area data holding unit 1107 converts the AREA data into the resolution notified by the resolution setting unit 1106 and stores the AREA data in the area memory 3.
13 is held. The data held in the area memory 313 is subjected to a filling process or the like to become an area code.

The image input section 1101 reads the original image again. This time, 400 dpi input image data is input to the image data conversion processing unit 1102, and Y
The data is converted into MC data and transferred to the data synthesis unit 1103. The area data reading unit 1108 reads the area code stored in the area memory 3213 and converts the area code into 400 dpi based on the notified resolution.
Then, the converted area code is transferred to the data synthesizing unit 1103 in synchronization with the input image data. The data synthesizing unit 1103 performs image processing for each area based on the input image data and the area code, and transfers the processing result data to the image forming unit 1104. The image forming unit 1104 forms an image based on the data input from the data synthesizing unit 1103, thereby obtaining a visible image that has been subjected to image processing for each region.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to appropriately set the resolution of an area code indicating a designated area and its image processing content. For this reason, it is possible to improve the image quality of a visible image formed by performing the area processing while suppressing the capacity of the area memory.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, switching between the 100 dpi mode and the 200 dpi mode is performed by setting from the operation unit 51 or the like. However, in the second embodiment, the type of area and the The resolution is switched according to the number. Hereinafter, the operation of the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a copy operation in the second embodiment. First, step S
In step 1001, the operation unit 51 or the like designates whether the area resolution is the normal mode or the high definition mode (mode setting). Here, if neither mode is specified, the mode is set to the auto mode. Also, an arbitrary area is specified by an area specifying means such as a digitizer (area setting). The designated area is divided into a rectangular area and a non-rectangular area input by freehand. The area specified by the marker is non-rectangular.

Next, when the original is set on the original platen in step S1002 and the copy start key is pressed, the optical system prescans the original and reads an image signal in step S1003. Then, in step S1004, the area mode preset in step S1001 is determined. If the result of this determination is normal mode, step S
The process proceeds to 1008, where the mode is set to 100 dpi.
On the other hand, if high definition or auto mode is set,
Further, in step S1005, the shape of the area is determined. If the area is rectangular, the process proceeds to step S1008,
Set to 0 dpi mode. If it is not rectangular, the process advances to step S1006 to determine the number of areas set in step S1001. If the number of areas for performing different processes is three or more, the process proceeds to step S1008, and the mode is set to 100 dpi. If not, the flow advances to step S1007 to set the mode to 200 dpi.

Then, the image signal read in step S1009 is binarized by a threshold within a certain range. Further, in step S1010, the image signal whose resolution has been converted corresponding to each mode is written to the area memory for each color. Then, in step S1011 C
The PU or the area controller searches the area memory for the address where the image signal is written. Further, editing is performed such as filling the inside surrounded by the address corresponding to the position of the image signal searched in step S1012.
The area code signal is generated by performing such processing at other addresses.

Next, in step S1013, the optical system reads the original again, and the image signal is read. At the same time, in step S1014, the area code signal is read from the memory, and while being subjected to parallel-serial conversion, is subjected to resolution conversion corresponding to 400 dpi according to each mode and output. Then, image editing corresponding to the area of the area code, for example, paint processing or the like is performed. Then, the image signal edited in step S1015 is developed by the developing device and output to a sheet.

The functional configuration of the second embodiment as described above is almost the same as that of the first embodiment (FIG. 11). However, the region extraction unit 1105 detects the shape of the region and the number of assigned image processing types, and transfers the detection result to the resolution setting unit 1106. Then, the resolution setting unit 1106 sets the resolution according to the procedure described in steps S1004 to S1008 in the flowchart of FIG. 10 described above.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, since the resolution of the area code is automatically and appropriately set, the capacity of the area memory can be reduced and the image quality can be improved as in the first embodiment. Operability is improved in addition to the effect of achieving both.

As described above, according to each of the above-described embodiments, the resolution of the generated area signal can be changed according to the type and number of the specified area, and the area memory can be effectively used. Natural image formation can be performed.

In each of the above embodiments, the area memory has a capacity of eight planes corresponding to 100 dpi of A3. However, it is of course possible to increase the memory capacity by expanding the area memory. For example, if the memory capacity is doubled, the number of high-definition 200 dpi mode areas can be further increased. Further, the same operation is naturally possible at a resolution other than the resolutions of 100 dpi and 200 dpi.

The present invention can be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), and can be applied to a single device (for example, a copier, a facsimile). Device).

Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and to provide a computer (or CPU) of the system or apparatus.
And MPU) read and execute the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

Examples of a storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, and CD.
-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) May perform some or all of the actual processing, and the processing may realize the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided on a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instructions of the program code, It goes without saying that the CPU provided in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

[0100]

As described above, according to the present invention, in an image processing apparatus for controlling image processing based on a designated area, the area data is stored in accordance with the memory capacity of the apparatus or the designated state of the area. Is appropriately controlled, so that a more natural visible image can be provided while reducing the required memory capacity. Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to efficiently store area data at a resolution corresponding to the area mode.

[0101]

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a color image forming apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an image processing unit 36, a controller unit 37, and a controlled unit around the controller 37;

FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an image processing unit 36, a controller unit 37, and a controlled unit around the controller 37;

FIG. 2C is a block diagram illustrating an image processing unit 36, a controller unit 37, and controlled units around the controller unit 37;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a memory writing unit of the area generation circuit 160.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a memory reading unit of the area generation circuit 160.

FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an address map of a page memory in a 100 dpi mode.

FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an address map of a page memory in a 200 dpi mode.

FIG. 6A is a page memory 3 in the 100 dpi mode.
13 is a timing chart showing the timing of a control signal when data is written to a block 13.

FIG. 6B is a page memory 3 in the 200 dpi mode.
13 is a timing chart showing the timing of a control signal when data is written to a block 13.

FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating a method of converting an area signal of 100 dpi into an area signal equivalent to 400 dpi.

FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating a method of converting an area signal of 200 dpi into an area signal equivalent to 400 dpi.

FIG. 8A shows a timing chart at the time of memory reading in the 100 dpi mode.

FIG. 8B is a timing chart at the time of memory reading in the 200 dpi mode.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a printing procedure according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a copy operation according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing operation according to the first embodiment.

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. A generating means for generating area data corresponding to a first resolution based on a specified area, and specifying one resolution from at least two types of resolutions lower than the first resolution. A storage unit configured to convert the area data generated by the generation unit into a resolution specified by the specification unit and store the converted image data. When processing image data corresponding to the first resolution, An image processing apparatus, comprising: processing means for converting the resolution of the area data stored in the storage means to the first resolution, and processing the image data based on the obtained area data. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates area data corresponding to the first resolution based on area specification information input from an external device. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates the area data by extracting an area written on a document image with a marker pen. 4. The image according to claim 1, wherein the designation unit designates one of at least two types of resolutions lower than the first resolution by a user's operation input. Processing equipment. 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specifying unit specifies a resolution based on a shape of an area indicated by the area data. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the generating unit generates a plurality of area data corresponding to a plurality of types of processing contents, and the specifying unit specifies a resolution based on the number of types of the processing contents. The image processing device according to claim 1. 7. A generation step of generating area data corresponding to a first resolution based on a designated area, and at least two types of area data generated in the generation step, wherein the area data is lower than the first resolution. And a storage step of converting the resolution to a designated resolution from among the resolutions, and forming an image based on the image data corresponding to the first resolution, by changing the resolution of the area data stored in the storage step. Converting the image data into the first resolution and processing the image data based on the obtained area data. 8. The method according to claim 7, further comprising a designation step of designating one of at least two kinds of resolutions lower than the first resolution to execute the storing step. The image processing method described in the above. 9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the generating step generates area data corresponding to the first resolution based on area specifying information input from an external device. Method. 10. The image processing method according to claim 7, wherein in the generating step, the area data is generated by extracting an area written on a document image with a marker pen. 11. The image according to claim 8, wherein in the specifying step, one of at least two types of resolutions lower than the first resolution is specified by a user's operation input. Processing method. 12. The image processing method according to claim 8, wherein in the specifying step, a resolution is specified based on a shape of an area indicated by the area data. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the generating step generates a plurality of area data corresponding to a plurality of types of processing contents, and the specifying step specifies a resolution based on the number of types of the processing contents. The image processing method according to claim 7. 14. An input unit for inputting image data, a storage unit for storing area data for processing the image data, an instruction unit for instructing an area mode, and an area mode instructed by the instruction unit. Depending on,
Control means for controlling the resolution of the area data stored in the storage means. 15. The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the area mode is a high definition processing mode. 16. The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the area mode is a non-rectangular area mode. 17. The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the area mode is a mode according to the number of areas. 18. An input step of inputting image data; a storage step of storing area data for processing the image data in a storage unit; an instruction step of instructing an area mode; Depending on the area mode,
Controlling the resolution of the area data stored in the storage means.