JP2006085192A - Image reading apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To read image, without being affected by a surface state of an image recording medium. <P>SOLUTION: A scanner part 232 for a printing accepting machine 230 is provided with a gloss detection sensor 250, and the gloss detection sensor outputs a signal, according to the surface state of a photographic print, and a determination part 258 of an image processing part 120A determines the surface state of the photographic print from the output of the gloss detection sensor. The image processing part changes over the processing coefficients in a preprocessing filter 252 and a sharpness processing part 256, on the basis of the determination result of the determination part by a coefficient changeover part 260 and performs prescribed image processing of image data obtained, by reading the photographic print by means of a CCD line sensor 114. Thus, image data which will not be affected by the surface state of the photographic print can be obtained. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus that reads an image formed on an image recording medium such as photographic paper and generates image data, such as obtaining another photographic print from a photographic print.

  When a photographed photographic film is brought into a DPE store or a laboratory, the photographic film is developed. At this time, if it is requested to create a simultaneous print or an index print, the photographic film is exposed to the image recorded on the photographic film to create a photographic print or an index print. At the same time, return the photo print and index print to the customer.

  Along with the diversification of image processing in recent years, image data (digital image data) created by reading an image recorded on photographic film with a scanner or the like is subjected to various image processing, and then this image data is used. Printing systems that create photographic prints are widespread. By using such a photographic print system, it is possible to create an index print in which images recorded on a photographic film are arranged in a matrix.

  In addition, with the spread of digital still cameras (DSC) and the like, DPE stores and others may request DTP services for creating photo prints from image data of images taken by digital still cameras. A DTP service is possible by using the print system.

  On the other hand, photographic prints are generally stored in an album or the like, and photographic films are generally stored separately from the albums and photographic prints. The reprint order is made by looking at the photo prints arranged in this album.

  For this reason, when ordering reprints, photographic prints may be brought to a DPE store or the like instead of photographic film or an order sheet delivered at the time of simultaneous printing. In such a case, it is possible to create a photographic print by reading an image of a photographic print with a scanner to create image data and exposing photographic paper or the like based on the image data.

  By the way, for the convenience of reprinting orders, apart from labs and DPE stores, a print receiving machine dedicated to receiving reprinting orders has been installed, and people who bring reprints and order reprints themselves can make various orders. A print service for inputting conditions is being studied.

  Such a print service is possible by writing necessary items and order conditions on the order sheet.

  However, in order to achieve a desired image, it is conceivable to use a photographic print as a manuscript, and read this manuscript image and display it on a monitor or the like. When such a document image is displayed on a monitor or the like, there is a problem that the displayed image varies depending on the surface state.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above facts, and an object thereof is to propose an image reading apparatus capable of obtaining constant image data regardless of the surface state of an original on which an image such as a photographic print is formed. And

  The present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems comprises an image reading means for receiving reflected light of light emitted from a light source to the image recording medium, and reads an image formed on the image recording medium by the image reading means, An image reading apparatus that outputs image data corresponding to the image, wherein the image recording medium is determined by a determination unit that determines a surface state of the image recording medium, and based on a determination result of the determination unit. And reading processing means for performing a predetermined process on the image data of the read image.

  According to the present invention, the determination unit for determining the surface state of the image recording medium is provided, and based on the determination result of the determination unit, the image reading unit performs image reading and also processes the read image data.

  This makes it possible to obtain image data that is not affected by the surface state of the image recording medium.

  In the present invention, the determination unit includes a detection unit that detects the surface roughness of the image recording medium, and determines the surface state of the image recording medium based on the detection result of the detection unit. Features.

  According to the present invention, the surface state of the image recording medium that affects the image data is the surface roughness of the image recording medium. From this, the surface state is determined by detecting the surface roughness of the image recording medium. To do.

  As such a determination means, it is possible to apply one that irradiates the image recording medium with spot light of a predetermined diameter and receives reflected light of the spot light. At this time, depending on the surface state of the image recording medium, image recording is performed. Since the diffusion state of the light reflected by the medium changes, the surface state of the image recording medium can be easily and accurately determined.

  The determination means is not limited to this, and may be determined based on, for example, an input by a key operation. The image reading means may be provided with a function for detecting the surface state.

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that the reading processing means includes image processing means for performing image processing based on a determination result of the determination means.

  According to the present invention, the processing conditions for performing image processing by the image processing means are switched based on the determination result of the determination means. Thereby, image data according to the surface state of the image recording medium is obtained.

  In the invention, it is preferable that the reading unit switches an irradiation angle of light applied to the image recording medium from the light source of the image reading unit based on a determination result of the determination unit.

  According to the present invention, when the image is read, the image reading means is changed by changing the irradiation angle of the light irradiated from the light source to the image recording medium, that is, the incident angle of the light, according to the surface state of the image recording medium. It is possible to suppress the light reflected toward the surface from being affected by the surface state of the image recording medium.

  The present invention as described above can be applied to a photographic print using an image recording medium as a photographic paper.

  Photographic prints in which images are formed on photographic paper include glossy, raster, and silk as finished surface types, and the surface state varies depending on the surface type. Further, such a photo print surface type appears in image data when an image is read, but it is possible to suppress the appearance of the surface state of photographic paper in this image data.

  Thereby, it is possible to appropriately read an image formed on the image recording medium and form it on a new image recording medium.

  As described above, according to the present invention, when reading an image formed on an image recording medium, it is possible to obtain an excellent effect that appropriate image data can be obtained regardless of the surface state of the image recording medium. .

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.
[First embodiment]
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a print service system 100 to which the present invention can be applied. First, a conventional configuration will be described using the print service system 100.

  The print service system 100 includes a plurality of print receiving machines 102 and a print processing apparatus 10.

  For example, a photographic print 62 in which an image is formed on photographic paper is brought into the print accepting machine 102 as an image recording medium on which an image is recorded, and a copy of the image formed on the photographic print 62 is accepted (printing acceptance). . At this time, the print receiving machine 102 inputs various order conditions together.

  In addition, the print processing apparatus 10 prints an image corresponding to the image formed on the photographic print 62 on the photographic paper 50 (see FIG. 7) in accordance with the reprint order received by the print receiving machine 102, thereby creating a new photo. A print 62 (hereinafter referred to as “photo print 62A”) is created. At this time, the print processing apparatus 10 performs print processing based on the order conditions input by the print accepting machine 102.

  The print accepting machine 102 used for such a print service is installed at a location different from the print processing apparatus 10.

  2 and 3 show a schematic configuration of the print receiving machine 102. FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the print receiving machine 102 is provided with a scanner unit 104 and a printing unit 106, and a photographic print 62 to be printed is transferred from an insertion port (not shown) provided in the print receiving machine 102 to the scanner unit 104. Inserted. The scanner unit 104 conveys the photographic print 62 at a constant speed by a conveyance unit such as a conveyance belt 108.

  The scanner unit 104 includes a light source 110 (110R, 110G, 110B) that emits light of each color of R, G, and B toward a photographic print 62 that is an original image, and R, G, and B reflected by the photographic print 62. A CCD line sensor 114 formed by CCD arrays 112R, 112G, and 112B for detecting each color light is provided. The scanner unit 104 is provided with an optical system 116 including a plurality of reflecting mirrors, various lenses, filters, and the like, and the light emitted from the light source 110 is transported on the transport belt 108 at a constant speed. The image is reflected by the photographic print 62 and formed on the CCD line sensor 114. As a result, the image formed on the photographic print 62 is read by the CCD line sensor 114.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the print receiver 102 is provided with an image memory 118. The output of the CCD line sensor 114 is A / D converted and stored in the image memory 118 as image data (digital image data). The The scanner unit 104 only needs to read an image with a resolution that can be displayed on a monitor described later.

  On the other hand, the print receiver 102 is provided with an image processing unit 120, a monitor 122, and an operation panel 124. An image corresponding to the image data stored in the image memory 118, that is, an image formed on the photographic print 62 is displayed on the monitor 122.

  In the print receiver 102, ordering conditions for ordering the reprint of the image formed on the photographic print 62 by the key operation on the operation panel 124 are input.

  The ordering conditions include, for example, information for the orderer such as the extra print orderer, the delivery destination (delivery destination) of the finished product, the print size, the number of prints, etc. , Composition of multiple images, affine transformation parameters for rotating / moving images, parameters for converting image tones and colors, necessity of templates and clip art, templates to be used, selection of clip art, reverse printing An instruction for special processing such as information is input.

  The operation panel 124 may use a mechanism such as displaying various order items on a touch panel monitor and selecting and setting order conditions from the respective items by a touch operation or the like. Order conditions may be input by operating the keys.

  The image processing unit 120 displays an image corresponding to the image data stored in the image memory 118 on the monitor 122, and sets and sets various parameters based on order conditions input by key operation of the operation panel 124. Based on parameters, gray balance adjustment, gradation adjustment, density adjustment, saturation adjustment, sharpness processing, dodging processing, electronic scaling processing, geometric processing, peripheral light amount correction processing, soft focus processing, red eye A conventionally known process such as a correction process is performed.

  By performing image processing based on such order conditions, an image corresponding to the order conditions input by operating the keys on the operation panel 124 is displayed on the monitor 122, and the orderer displays the monitor 122 on the display. You can check the contents of your order while watching.

  Further, the image processing unit 120 sets processing conditions for printing an image of the photographic print 62 based on various parameters when image processing is performed. The processing conditions set by the image processing unit 120 are input to the order information setting unit 126 together with the order conditions input by operating the keys on the operation panel 124. The order information setting unit 126 sets order information for printing the photographic print 62 based on the order conditions and processing conditions.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, a photographic print 62 that has passed through the scanner unit 104 is sent to the printing unit 106 provided in the print receiving machine 102. In the printing unit 106, the photographic print 62 is conveyed by a conveyance unit such as a conveyance belt 128. Further, a label writer 130 is provided in the printing unit 106 so as to face the conveyance path of the photographic print 62.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the print receiver 102 is provided with an encoding unit 132. The encoding unit 132 encodes the order information set by the order information setting unit 126 and outputs it to the label writer 130. The label writer 130 prints a label 64 indicating the encoded order information on the photographic print 62.

  In the print service system 100, a two-dimensional bar code is used as a label 64 printed on the photographic print 62 by the print receiver 102.

  In general, a barcode displays various information by a combination of white and black parallel lines, but displays information in a one-dimensional manner, and has a small amount of information and a low information density.

  In recent years, in order to display a large amount of information with high density, various kinds of bar code two-dimensionalization (referred to as a two-dimensional bar code) have been studied. Here, as an example, the two-dimensional bar code is displayed on a label 64. I use it.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the two-dimensional bar code includes a stack type symbol in which one-dimensional bar codes are stacked and a matrix type symbol in which black and white are arranged in a grid as shown in FIG. 4C. There is. Stack type symbols include Code 49, Code 16K, Codablock, PDF47, SuperCode, UltraCode, etc., and matrix type symbols include VeriCode, CPCode, DataMatrix, Code 1, MaxiCode, ArrayTag, AztecCode, DataMatrix EC200, QRCode model 2 However, any of them may be applied, or a dedicated symbol set separately from these may be used.

  Such two-dimensional barcodes are 49 or 77 alphanumeric characters, even for stack symbols Code49 and Code16K, which are said to have the least amount of information, several times the number of traditional one-dimensional barcodes. The matrix type symbol can display an information amount of 1520 (1045 bytes) to 4296 (1847 bytes) alphanumeric characters. Thereby, it is possible to encode and display characters and binary data indicating various order information.

  Further, the two-dimensional bar code can have an error correction function, thereby enabling accurate reading of information.

  Such a two-dimensional barcode can be read one-dimensionally by a conventional one-dimensional barcode or a scanner using a CCD line sensor, whereas a two-dimensional barcode is obtained by a CCD line sensor. The symbols are scanned or read as image data by an area CCD sensor.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4A, the print receiver 102 prints the label 64 on the image surface of the photographic print 62 so as to overlap the image. At this time, the label writer 130 prints using ink or a ribbon that reflects only light of a wavelength in a preset invisible light region such as infrared rays.

  Such ink or ribbon does not reflect or emit light when irradiated with visible light, and emits light by the energy of light of this wavelength when irradiated with invisible light of a specific wavelength. That is, the label 64 is a so-called stealth bar code printed on the photographic print 62 as an invisible image (hereinafter, the photographic print 62 is referred to as a “photographic print 62B”).

  As a result, visible light is transmitted as it is, and even if the label 64 is printed over the image, the image formed on the photographic print 62 (62B) may be partially hidden and damaged. There is no. In addition, it is difficult for the photographic print 62B to visually confirm whether or not the label 64 is printed, and the information recorded as the label 64 is never read.

  Since the printed portion emits light by invisible light, the label 64 is a light emitting portion by irradiating light including invisible light, removing a reflected light, and transmitting a light having a wavelength emitted. The printed portion, that is, the symbol of the label 64 that is a two-dimensional barcode can be read.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the print receiving machine 102 is provided with a receiving box 134, and the photographic print 62 </ b> B on which the label 64 is printed is collected in the receiving box 134 when being sent out from the printing unit 106.

  The photographic print 62B received by the print receiver 102 in this way is delivered to the print processing apparatus 10 as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 5 shows a schematic configuration of the print processing apparatus 10. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the print processing apparatus 10 includes an image processing apparatus 12 and a printer processor 18. The printer processor 18 scans and exposes photographic paper 50 (see FIG. 7), which is a kind of photographic photosensitive material, as an image recording medium in accordance with image data (digital image data) processed by the image processing device 12. Thereby, a photographic print 62 on which an image corresponding to the image data is formed is obtained.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the print processing apparatus 10 prints a photographic print from an image formed on a photographic film 20 such as a negative film or a reversal film or image data recorded on an image storage medium such as a smart media 24. The general configuration to create is used. In the print processing apparatus 10, image data corresponding to an image recorded on the photographic film 20 and image data recorded on the smart media 24 are input to the image processing apparatus 12.

  For this purpose, the image processing device 12 is connected to a film scanner 22 that reads an image recorded in each image frame of the photographic film 20, a media drive 26 that reads image data recorded in the smart media 24, and the like. The

  The film scanner 22 reads an image of each image frame recorded on a photographic film 20 such as a 135 film or an APS film, and outputs image data. Note that the print processing apparatus 10 includes a film processor (not shown), and can perform development processing before loading the photographic film 20 taken by a camera or the like into the film scanner 22.

  The smart media 24 is loaded into the media drive 26 when the smart media 24 used for a digital still camera or the like is applied. As a result, the image data captured by the digital still camera and stored in the smart media 24 is read into the image processing device 12. Note that not only the smart media 24 but also any conventionally known recording media can be used, and the media drive 26 is adapted to the storage medium to be applied. The image data recorded on the smart media 24 is not limited to the image data of an image taken by a digital still camera, but various images such as image data taken by a digital video camera or the like and edited by a personal computer. Data can be used.

  The image processing apparatus 12 includes an image memory 30 and stores image data input from the film scanner 22, the media drive 26, and the like in the image memory 30.

  The image processing apparatus 12 is provided with an image processing unit 38 that includes a color gradation processing unit 32, a hypertone processing unit 34, a hyper sharpness processing unit 36, and the like, and performs various image processing. The image processing apparatus 12 performs various image processing on the image data recorded in the image memory 30 by the color gradation processing unit 32, the hypertone processing unit 34, the hyper sharpness processing unit 36, and the like.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 12 is provided with a pre-scan processing unit 90, a processing condition setting unit 92, and an order information processing unit 94. As shown in FIG. 6, the image processing apparatus 12 includes a monitor 12M together with a keyboard 12K. Is provided.

  In the image processing apparatus 12, when image data is read by the film scanner 22 or a scanner described later, for example, after performing a pre-scan for reading an image at a low resolution, a fine scan for reading an image at a high resolution is performed. Various processing conditions are set based on the image data read by the pre-scan, and image processing is performed on the image data read by the fine scan based on the set processing conditions. At this time, an image based on the image data read by the pre-scan is displayed on the monitor 12M, and it is possible to set and confirm the image processing conditions and the like while viewing this display image.

  For example, an order information input machine (not shown) is connected to the order information processing unit 94, and a photographed (undeveloped) photographic film 20 is brought in, or a smart media 24 in which image data is stored is brought in. When the photo print 62 is requested to be created, information such as the name of the orderer, information that can specify the orderer, print size, finish such as gloss or silk, and various general order information such as the number of prints are input. Is done.

  The processing condition setting unit 92 performs setting of processing conditions for image data based on the order information input to the order information processing unit 94. As a result, the image processing unit 38 performs processing on the image data based on the order information. Further, the number of prints, finish, print size, and the like are output to the printer processor 18 together with image data as print conditions.

  That is, in the prescan processing unit 90, a processing condition input to the processing condition setting unit 92 by a key operation of the keyboard 12K or a processing condition that is automatically set based on preset or prescanned image data. For example, gray balance adjustment, gradation adjustment, density adjustment, saturation adjustment, sharpness (sharpening) processing, dodging processing, electronic scaling processing, geometric processing, peripheral light amount correction processing, soft focus processing, Various conventionally known processes such as a red-eye correction process are performed, and an image corresponding to the processed image data is displayed on the monitor 12M. The processing condition setting unit 92 controls the image processing unit 38 based on the processing conditions, and performs processing on the image data read by fine scanning.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the printer processor 18 includes a digital printer 42 and a paper processor (hereinafter referred to as “processor 44”).

  The image processing apparatus 12 and the printer processor 18 are connected by an interface such as the IEEE 1394 standard, for example, and the image data processed by the image processing apparatus 12 and the order conditions are output to the printer processor 18. As a result, the printer processor 18 can perform print processing based on this order information, for example, selecting the photographic paper 50 according to the print size and finish, and exposing the selected photographic paper 50 according to the image data. It has become.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the digital printer 42 provided in the printer processor 18 includes an image memory 46 and an exposure unit 48, and temporarily stores image data input from the image processing device 12 in the image memory 46. To do.

  The exposure unit 48 of the digital printer 42 is loaded with a photographic paper 50 as an image recording medium. When image data is input, the roll-shaped photographic paper 50 is pulled out from the outer peripheral edge and printed according to the image data. The paper 50 is exposed. The image-exposed photographic paper 50 is sent to the processor 44.

  The exposure unit 48 includes, for example, a scanning optical system (not shown) configured by a laser light source 52 for each color of R, G, and B, a polygon mirror, an fθ lens, and the like, and the photographic paper 50 is moved at a constant speed. A general configuration in which the photographic paper 50 is exposed according to the image data by irradiating (main scanning) laser light of each color of R, G, and B from the laser light source 52 according to the image data while being transported in the sub-scanning mode. Can be used.

  The processor 44 has a general configuration including a processing liquid processing unit 54, a drying unit 56, and a sorter unit 58. The processor 44 applies processing liquids such as color development, bleach-fixing, and water washing to the photographic paper 50. After the processing, a drying process is performed to visualize the image exposed on the photographic paper 50.

  Further, the processor 44 is provided with a cutter 60, and the photographic paper 50 after the drying process is cut for each image and discharged to the sorter unit 58 as a photographic print 62 to be collected. The printer processor 18 receives image data for index printing in which an image for one photographic film 20 and an image (image data) for one sheet of smart media 24 are arranged in a matrix from the image processing device 12. As a result, the printing paper 50 is exposed in accordance with the image data, and is discharged to the sorter unit 58 as an index print.

  On the other hand, the print processing apparatus 10 is provided with a flatbed scanner (hereinafter referred to as “scanner 28”) which is a reflective scanner as an image reading means. In the print service system 100, the photographic print 62 </ b> B received by the print receiver 102 is loaded into the scanner 28.

  The scanner 28 is connected to the image processing apparatus 12, and the image processing apparatus 12 can read image data of an image recorded on a reflective original such as a photographic print 62 (62 B) using the scanner 28. It has become. When the digital printer 42 of the printer processor 18 has a scanner function, the scanner of the digital printer 42 may be used as the scanner 28.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of the scanner 28. The scanner 28 includes a light source 76 (76R, 76G, 76B) that emits light of R, G, and B colors toward the document image, and a CCD that detects the light of R, G, and B colors reflected from the document image. A CCD line sensor 80 formed by the arrays 78R, 78G, 78B is provided.

  The photographic print 62 is placed on a platen glass 82, which is transparent glass, with the image surface facing downward, and is covered and sandwiched by a presser cover 84. The scanner 28 includes a plurality of reflecting mirrors 86 and an optical system 88 composed of various lenses and filters. Light emitted from the light source 76 to the photographic print 62 is reflected by the photographic print 62. Then, the light is reflected by the plurality of reflecting mirrors 86 and folded, and further passes through the optical system 88 to form an image on the CCD line sensor 80. Further, the light source 76 and the plurality of reflecting mirrors 86 are moved relative to the photographic print 62 (sub-scanning) so that the optical path length between the photographic print 62 and the CCD line sensor 80 is constant, so that the photographic print 62 is obtained. The formed image is read by the CCD line sensor 80.

  The scanner 28 A / D converts the image read by the CCD line sensor 80 and outputs it as image data. The scanner 28 performs a fine scan for reading an image at a high resolution after a pre-scan for reading an image at a low resolution. As a result, the image data read by the pre-scan and the image data read by the fine scan are input to the image processing device 12.

  Note that the scanner 28 performs only fine scanning, and the image data read by the fine scanning is converted into low-resolution image data by the scanner 28 or the image processing device 12 and used as pre-scanned image data. Also good. Further, as the scanner 28, a reflection type image reading apparatus having a general configuration for reading an image recorded on a reflection original can be applied, and detailed description thereof is omitted in the present embodiment.

  On the other hand, the scanner 28 is provided with a light source 76IR that emits invisible light having a predetermined wavelength corresponding to the label 64 printed on the photographic print 62B (hereinafter referred to as “infrared rays” as an example). The CCD line sensor 80 includes a CCD array 78IR that detects light emitted from the label 64 by light emitted from the light source 76IR (“infrared” as an example).

  The scanner 28 reads the symbol of the label 64 recorded on the photographic print 62B as image data and outputs it to the image processing apparatus 12.

  The image processing apparatus 12 is provided with a decoding unit 74, and the image data of the label 64 is input to the decoding unit 74. The decoding unit 74 restores the order information that has been converted into a two-dimensional barcode based on the image data of the label 64 and recorded on the photographic print 62 </ b> B, and outputs it to the order information processing unit 94.

  The order information processing unit 94 outputs processing conditions when processing the image data of the photographic print 62B from the order information input from the decoding unit 74 to the processing condition setting unit 92. As a result, the image processing unit 38 of the image processing apparatus 12 performs image processing on the image data of the photographic print 62 read by the scanner 28 based on the order information recorded on the photographic print 62.

  Also, the order information read by the order information processing unit 94 is sent to the digital printer 42 of the printer processor 18. As a result, the digital printer 42 can perform image exposure based on the order information, and the photographic print 62 obtained by copying the image formed on the photographic print 62B (62) in accordance with the order conditions input by the print receiving machine 102. (Hereinafter referred to as “photo print 62A”) can be created.

  On the other hand, the image processing apparatus 12 is provided with an encoding unit 72. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, a label writer 66 is provided in the processor 44 of the printer processor 18. The label writer 66 prints a label of a non-visible image (hereinafter referred to as “label 68”) on the image surface of the photographic print 62 in the same manner as the label writer 130 of the print receiver 102.

  The order information processing unit 94, in addition to the order information recorded on the photographic print 62B, performs exposure conditions when exposing the photographic paper 50 based on this image data when performing the reprinting process of the image of the photographic print 62B. Information regarding processing conditions in the print processing apparatus 10 and information indicating that the image is a copied image (hereinafter referred to as “copy information”) are output to the encoding unit 72. The encoding unit 72 encodes the copy information into a two-dimensional bar code (converts it into a two-dimensional bar code) and outputs it to the label writer 66.

  As a result, in addition to the order information and the processing information, information indicating that the photo print is a copied photo print 62A is recorded.

  The image processing apparatus 12 stores image data read by the film scanner 22 or the scanner 28 in a hard disk, or connects the image processing apparatus 12 to an image server (not shown) via a network or the like, and connects the image data to the image server. Data may be stored.

  Here, a flow of processing for a reprint request of an image formed on the photographic print 62 using the print receiving machine 102 will be described.

  FIG. 9 shows the flow of the extra order acceptance process in the print accepting machine 102 provided in the print service system 100.

  In this flowchart, the process starts when the orderer inserts a photographic print 62 to be reprinted into an insertion port (not shown). In the first step 150, the photographic print 62 is conveyed at a constant speed by the conveyance belt 108. The image formed on the photographic print 62 is read.

  Thereafter, in step 152, an image based on the read image data is displayed on the monitor 122. That is, the image formed on the photographic print 62 is displayed on the monitor 122. Thus, it is possible to input order conditions by operating the operation panel 124 while viewing the image displayed on the monitor 122.

  In the next step 154, it is confirmed whether or not the order conditions are input. If the order conditions are input and an affirmative determination is made in step 154, the process proceeds to step 156, and various parameters are set based on the input order conditions. Set and perform image processing. In step 158, the display on the monitor 122 is changed in accordance with the image processed image. That is, an image processed based on the order condition is displayed on the monitor 122.

  In step 160, it is confirmed whether or not the favorite image is displayed on the monitor 122, that is, whether or not the order condition can be set so that the favorite image can be obtained. Then, the process proceeds to step 162, and the order information is set based on the input order conditions and the processing conditions when the image processing is performed. When a favorite image is not obtained (No in step 160), order conditions are input again (order conditions are changed).

  The order information set in this way is converted into a two-dimensional barcode in step 164 and printed on the photographic print 62 as a label 64 of an invisible image. Since the label 64 is printed on the photographic print 62B as a two-dimensional barcode invisible image (stealth barcode), it is formed on the photographic print 62B even if it is printed on the image surface of the photographic print 62B. The image will not be damaged.

  As a result, the photographic print 62 is delivered to the print processing apparatus 10 as a photographic print 62B in which order information is recorded.

  FIG. 10 shows the flow of processing in the print processing apparatus 10 for this photographic print 62B.

  This flowchart is executed when the photographic print 62B received by the print receiver 102 is loaded into the scanner 28 and the start of the printing process is instructed. In the first step 170, the photographic print 62B loaded in the scanner 28 is loaded. Read the image.

  The scanner 28 reads, as image data, the symbol of the label 64 recorded as an invisible image together with the image data of each color of R, G, and B in step 170 (step 172). At this time, since the label 64 is recorded on the image surface of the photographic print 62B, it can be smoothly read together with the image formed on the photographic print 62B without reloading the photographic print 62B. .

  When the reading of the image of the photographic print 62B is completed, first, in step 174, the symbol of the label 64 is decoded and the order information recorded on the photographic print 62B is read. In step 176, image processing is performed based on this order information. The exposure conditions for exposing the photographic paper 50 are set on the basis of the processing conditions when performing the printing and the image data.

  Thereafter, in step 178, image processing is performed on the image data of the image formed on the photo print 62B read by the scanner 28 based on the processing conditions set based on the order conditions. The scanner 28 performs pre-scanning, performs pre-set image processing on the press-scan image data, sets basic processing conditions, and based on the processing conditions and processing conditions based on order information. Image processing may be performed, and basic processing conditions are also set as order information, pre-scanning is omitted, and image processing is performed on image data obtained by fine scanning. May be.

  When image processing is performed in this manner, in the next step 180, image exposure is performed on the photographic printing paper 50 using the processed image data.

  On the other hand, in step 182, copy information is set based on the order information recorded on the photographic print 62B, the image processing information in the print processing apparatus 10, and the exposure information. In the next step 184, this copy information is two-dimensionally set. It is encoded into a bar code and printed on the photographic print 62 as an invisible image. Thereby, a photographic print 62A on which a copy history is recorded is obtained.

  The photographic print 62A created in this way is delivered to the orderer recorded as order information together with the photographic print 62 (62B) received by the print receiving machine 102.

  In this way, in the print service system 100, the orderer can make a reprint order while confirming the finished image by the print accepting machine 102, so that PTP (Print to Print) processing can be easily and reliably performed. The photograph print 62A in which an image corresponding to the order of the orderer is formed (copied) can be delivered to the orderer.

  Further, in the print processing apparatus 10, since various processing conditions are set when the orderer orders a reprint, the print processing can be performed smoothly.

  Further, since copy information is recorded together with the reprinted photo print 62A, it is possible to make clear that the photo print is a copy together with the order history from the copy information.

  Here, the copy history is recorded on the photo print 62A created in response to the order request, but the copy history clearly indicates that the photo print 62 (photo print 62A) is obtained by reprinting. Only the information may be used, or the copy history may not be recorded.

  Further, the order information is recorded as the stealth barcode on the image surface of the photographic print 62A, but the order information is not limited to this. For example, the back side of the photographic print 62 may be printed as a visible image as a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode (backside printing), and recorded in a non-image portion such as a blank portion around the image. Also good. Further, the order information is not limited to the barcode, and may be printed based on a preset code. Further, when the order information is converted into a predetermined code, an electronic appearance method is further used. It may be used. In this case, a visible image printed on the back side by the scanner 28 or the like of the print processing apparatus 10 may be read.

  On the other hand, it is sufficient that the orderer who brings in the photographic print 62 can perform the accepting process as a print accepting machine. This eliminates the need for extra order accepting personnel, and can save labor in the accepting process. Become. Further, by saving labor in the receiving process, it is possible to extend the receiving time and the receiving place, and the convenience of the orderer can be improved.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a print receiving machine that can at least save labor and improve the convenience of the orderer. In this print receiving machine 102A, the scanner unit 104, the image memory 118, and the image processing unit 120 are omitted. In this print receiving machine 102A, various items such as order conditions and image processing conditions are displayed on the monitor 122, and it is possible to input the order conditions and the processing conditions by operating the operation panel 124 while observing the display on the monitor 122. It has become. Further, the order conditions and processing conditions set by the display on the monitor 122 can be confirmed.

  The order information setting unit 126 sets order information from the order conditions and processing conditions input by operating the keys on the operation panel 124.

  The photographic print 62 is sent to the printing unit 106 by being inserted from an insertion port (not shown) of the print receiving machine 102A. At this time, in the printing unit 106, for example, the label writer 130 prints the label 64 of the two-dimensional barcode based on the order information on the photographic print 62 as an invisible image, and accepts the reprint order. Thereby, a photographic print 62B on which order information is recorded is obtained.

  Since the print accepting machine 102A can accept an order without human intervention, it can be installed in any place and can always accept an order (24 hours). This makes it possible to improve convenience when placing an additional order.

  By the way, the finished surface type of the photographic print 62 includes glossy, raster, silk, and the like, and the surface state (existence and size of embossing and the like) differs depending on the finished surface type. The reflection of light when reading an image is slightly different. Such a difference in reflection of light according to the surface state affects image data and processing conditions, so that an image formed on the photographic print 62A may change.

  Such a surface state of the photographic print 62 can be prevented from affecting the image of the copied photographic print 62A by performing a filtering process or the like according to the surface state.

  12 and 13 show an outline of the print receiving machine 102B and the print processing apparatus 10A for enabling appropriate processing in accordance with the surface state of the photographic print 62 in the first embodiment. The print processing apparatus 10A and the print receiving machine 102B are used in place of the print processing apparatus 10 and the print receiving machines 102 and 102A.

  The print receiver 102B shown in FIG. 12 is provided with a surface type input unit 140 and a surface type detection unit 142 on the operation panel 124A, and can be switched by operating a changeover switch 144. That is, by selecting the face type input (face type input unit 140) by operating the changeover switch 144, the face type (for example, glossy, raster, silk, etc.) of the photo print 62 is selected by a key operation (not shown) of the operation panel 124A. Manual input is possible.

  When the surface type detection (surface type detection unit 142) is selected by the changeover switch 144, the reflection of light applied to the photographic print 62 is performed when the scanner unit 104 reads the image formed on the photographic print 62. From the state, the surface type detection unit 142 determines the surface type of the photographic print 62.

  On the other hand, when the surface type is determined by manual input or automatic detection, the scanner unit 104 performs a filtering process set in advance according to the surface type when reading an image formed on the photographic print 62. . As a result, the image memory 118 stores image data that is not affected by the surface type of the photographic print 62.

  Further, the order information setting unit 126 sets the order information to which the determined surface type is added, and a two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the set order information is printed on the photographic print 62 as an invisible image. That is, order information including face type information is recorded on the photo print 62B.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of a print processing apparatus that performs processing of the photo print 62B in which the face type information is added to the order information. The image processing apparatus 12A of the print processing apparatus 10A is provided with a surface type setting unit 146. The surface type setting unit 146 reads out order information from the image data of the invisible image read by the scanner 28. The face type information included in the order information is input.

  The surface type setting unit 146 sets the surface type of the photographic print 62B when the scanner 28 reads an image based on the surface type information. When the scanner 28 reads an image recorded on the photographic print 62B, the scanner 28 performs a filtering process or the like set in advance according to the surface type.

  That is, in the print processing apparatus 10A, when the photographic print 62B is attached to the scanner 28, first, the label 64 formed as an invisible image on the photographic print 62B is read. Thereafter, the order information is read from the image of the label 64, and the face type is set based on the order information.

  Thereafter, when an image formed on the photographic print 62B is read (pre-scan and fine scan), a filter process set according to the surface type is performed.

  As a result, appropriate image data that does not affect the surface type of the photographic print 62B is stored in the image memory 30, and copying to the photographic paper 50 can be performed based on this image data.

  In the print accepting machine 102B, manual setting and automatic setting of the surface type of the photographic print 62 are switched. However, the present invention is not limited to this, as long as the surface type is set at least manually or automatically. good.

  In the print processing apparatus 10A, the surface type is set based on the order information recorded on the photographic print 62B. However, the surface type is automatically detected by the scanner 28 or the image processing apparatus 12A, and the detection result is displayed. Based on this, it is possible to read the image formed on the photographic print 62B and perform image processing, so that even when the order information does not include the face type information, an appropriate print corresponding to the face type is provided. Processing is possible.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the print accepting machine 102 may be one in which the scanner unit 104 is provided with a changeover switch 144A, a surface type detecting unit 142A, and a surface type setting unit 140A. As shown in FIG. 15, the print processing apparatus 10 may be provided with a changeover switch 144B, a surface type setting means 140B, and a surface type detection means 142B in the scanner 28 connected to the image processing apparatus 12.

  The surface type setting means 140A, 140B sets or selects the surface type of the photographic print 62 (62B) by manual operation, and the surface type detection means 142A, 142B reads the image of the photographic print 62 (62B). In addition, the surface type is detected and determined from the light reflectance and the like. The scanner unit 104 and the scanner 28 or the surface type setting means 140A and 140B and the surface type detection means 142A and 142B are detected by the surface type or surface type detection means 142A and 142B set by the surface type setting means 140A and 140B. What is necessary is just to be able to perform image correction etc. when the image of the photographic print 62 (62B) is read based on the surface type.

  As a result, when reading the images recorded on the photographic prints 62 and 62B by the print receiver 102 and the scanner 28 of the print processing apparatus 10, the face type is set manually or the face type is automatically detected. Can be switched appropriately. Further, it is possible to have a function of inputting the surface type information later on the print receiver 102 and the scanner 28.

  In the above description, the order information is printed on the photo print 62. However, the configuration in which the order information is carried on the photo print is not limited to this.

  Here, another example in which order information is carried on a photographic print will be described.

  FIG. 16 shows a schematic configuration of the print accepting machine 202 used in the print service system 200, and FIG. 18 shows a schematic configuration of the print processing apparatus 10B used in the print service system 200.

  As shown in FIG. 16, an IC label writer 206 for writing order information on the IC label 204 is provided in the print accepting machine 202 used in the print service system 200 in place of the label writer 130 for printing the label 64 of the invisible image. Is provided. The IC label writer 206 can record various information on the IC label 204 without contact.

  The IC label writer 206 is connected to the order information setting unit 126, and the order information set by the order information setting unit 126 based on the order conditions and the image processing conditions based on the order conditions is input. The order information is recorded on the IC label 204 provided for each photographic print 62.

  As shown in FIG. 17B, the IC label 204 has a built-in module 210 composed of an IC chip and an antenna coil embedded in an exterior material 208 such as a non-woven fabric, for example, even if the exterior material 208 is thick. It is finished to about 0.4mm.

  The IC label 204 can record data input through the antenna coil on the IC chip, and can output data recorded in the IC chip through the antenna coil. In other words, the IC label 204 can write and read data to and from the IC chip in a non-contact manner.

  When the order condition is input, the print acceptor 202 records the order information set based on the order condition on the IC label 204, and discharges the IC label 204 together with the photographic print 62 from a discharge port (not shown).

  The orderer attaches the IC label 204 to the back side of the photographic print 62 once discharged from the print accepting machine 202, and puts it into a receiving box as a photographic print 62C carrying order information from a receiving port (not shown). To do. As a result, the print receiving machine 202 receives a reprint order for the image formed on the photographic film 62.

  The photographic print 62C received in this way is delivered to the print processing apparatus 10B. At this time, since the thickness of the IC label 204 is about 0.4 mm or less, the photo print 62C can be generally arranged and stored using an album or the like. Further, as shown in FIG. 17A, since the IC label 204 is affixed to the surface opposite to the image surface of the photographic print 62, the finished quality is hidden by hiding the image formed on the photographic print 62. Will not be reduced.

  Although the orderer attaches the IC label 204 to the photographic print 62, the IC label 204 may be automatically attached within the print accepting machine 202, or the orderer may attach the photographic print 62. The IC label 204 may be affixed before the IC is inserted into the print receiver 202, and the IC label writer 206 may record the order information on the IC label 204 affixed to the photographic print 62.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the print processing apparatus 10B provided in the print service system 200 includes an IC label instead of the scanner 28 having a light source 76IR and a CCD array 78IR for reading a non-visible image. A scanner 28A provided with a reader 212 is used.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the IC label reader 212 has the photographic print 62C placed at a predetermined position on the platen glass 82 so that the IC label 204 attached to the back surface of the photographic print 62C is opposed. For example, it is provided in the pressing cover 84 or the like. The IC label reader 212 is not limited to this, and any position can be used as long as the data (order information) recorded from the IC label 204 of the photographic print 62C attached to the scanner 28A can be read. Can be installed.

  The IC label reader 212 is connected to an order information processing unit 94 provided in the image processing apparatus 12B. As a result, order information can be read from the IC label 204 of the photographic print 62C mounted on the scanner 28A for image reading. The IC label reader 212 reads the order information recorded on the IC label 204 at a predetermined timing when the scanner 28A reads the image of the photographic print 62C, and sends it to the order information processing unit 94 of the image processing apparatus 12B. Output.

  As a result, the print processing apparatus 10B can perform reprinting processing based on the order information recorded on the IC label 204 of the photographic print 62C, and the print processing apparatus 10B matches the order conditions input to the print accepting machine 202. A photographic print 62 (photo print 62D in FIG. 18) can be created. This photographic print 62D is delivered to the orderer together with the photographic print 62C.

  Therefore, also in the print service system 200 configured as described above, it is possible to create a photographic print 62D in which an image is copied in response to an orderer's request (order).

  Here, it is described that copy information is not recorded on the photographic print 62D, but an IC label writer is also provided in the print processing apparatus 10B, and an IC label on which copy information is recorded on the created photographic print 62D. You may make it stick.

  By using such an IC label 204, for example, an IC label 204 in which order information is recorded in a predetermined form by a home personal computer or the like is created, and this IC label 204 is affixed to a photographic print 62, and a print processing apparatus It can also be delivered to 10B.

  The IC label 204 may be a large-capacity IC chip (for example, an LSI chip) that can record data of about several megabytes to several tens of megabytes. By using such a large-capacity IC label (LSI label), not only order information but also a copy history using the photographic print 62C can be recorded on the photographic print 62C.

  In the above description, the order information is carried on the photographic print 62. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the print receiving machine 220 shown in FIG. 20 may be used.

  The print receiving machine 220 includes a card writer 222. The card writer 220 records order information on a memory card 224 used as an order information recording medium. Note that the memory card 224 is not limited to an IC card or an LSI card, and a multimedia card such as smart media can be used.

  When receiving an order request for the photographic print 62, the print receiver 220 records the order information on the memory card 224. Note that the print accepting device 220 may assign an identification code (ID code) to each photo print 62 that has accepted an order, and the memory card 224 may record order information for each identification code. Accordingly, order information for a large number of photographic prints 62 can be recorded using a single memory card 224.

When such a print receiver 220 is used, the print processing apparatus may be provided with a card reader for reading out information recorded in the memory card 224, whereby order information is carried on each of the photographic prints 62. In the same way as when printing, it is possible to create a photo print according to the ordering conditions of the orderer.
[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. As described above, for example, there are glossy, raster, silk, and the like as the finished surface type of the photographic print 62 in which an image is formed on photographic paper or the like, and the surface state varies depending on the surface type.

  Here, in the second embodiment, an example of a print receiving machine that enables appropriate image copying regardless of the surface state will be described.

  FIG. 21 shows a schematic configuration of the scanner unit 232 provided in the print receiver 230 applied to the second embodiment.

  The scanner unit 232 is provided with a reading stage 234, and a photographic print 62 inserted from an insertion port (not shown) is sandwiched between the insertion roller pair 236 and placed on the reading stage 234. The scanner unit 232 is provided with a stopper (not shown) at a predetermined position on the peripheral edge of the reading stage 234 so that it can protrude and retract, so that the photographic print 62 fed by the insertion roller pair 236 is projected by the protrusion. Then, it is stopped and placed at a predetermined position on the reading stage 234. The stopper is retracted from the reading stage 234 when the photographic print 62 is sent out from the reading stage 234.

  The reading stage 234 has suction holes or suction grooves (not shown) formed on the upper surface thereof, and a negative pressure source 238 is connected to these. As a result, the photographic print 62 placed on the reading stage 234 is attracted and held on the reading stage 234 by the negative pressure supplied from the negative pressure source 238, and the photographic print 62 is bent, bent, wrinkled, or the like. Even so, the photographic print 62 is uniformly stretched and sucked and held at a predetermined position on the reading stage 234.

  The suction hole and the suction groove can be provided in any shape as long as the inner diameter and the groove width do not cause a depression or the like on the surface of the photographic print 62 when the photographic print 62 is sucked.

  The scanner unit 232 is provided with a feed roller 240 on the side opposite to the insertion roller pair 236 with the reading stage 234 interposed therebetween. The feed roller 240 is normally retracted from the reading stage 234 (shown by a solid line in FIG. 21), but moves to the upper surface of the reading stage 234 when the processing for the photographic print 62 in the scanner unit 232 is completed. Then, the photographic print 62 is sandwiched between the reading stage 234 (indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 21).

  In this state, the suction holding of the photographic print 62 is released and the feed roller 240 is driven to rotate, whereby the photographic print 62 is discharged from the reading stage 234. The transport mechanism of the photographic print 62 is not limited to this, and any conventionally known configuration can be applied.

  On the other hand, the scanner unit 232 of the print receiver 230 is provided with a scanning unit 246 including a reflection mirror 242 and a light source 244 above the reading stage 234. The scanning unit 246 is provided with a CCD line sensor 114.

  The scanner unit 232 irradiates light including R, G, and B color components from the light source 244 toward the photographic print 62 on the reading stage 234. The reflection mirror 242 reflects light reflected from the light source 244 according to the image formed on the photographic print 62 toward the CCD line sensor 114. This reflected light is imaged on the CCD line sensor 114 via a lens or the like (not shown), so that an image formed on the photographic print 62 can be read.

  The scanning unit 246 has a light source moving method in which the light source 244 moves in the sub-scanning direction, and an image formed on the photographic print 62 held on the reading stage 234 is read by the scanning movement of the scanning unit 246. Image data is output.

  The print receiver 230 may be provided with the monitor 122, the operation panel 124, and the like, and may be provided with the printing unit 106 (see FIG. 3) after the scanner unit 232, instead of the printing unit 106. Further, an IC label writer 206, a card writer 222, and the like are provided, and order information can be input and output. Further, the present invention is not limited to these, and any configuration can be used as long as it can input order conditions and output order information.

  By the way, the gloss detection sensor 250 is provided in the scanner unit 232 of the print receiver 230. The gloss detection sensor 250 is disposed so as to face a predetermined position of the photographic print 62 sucked and held on the reading stage 234. The gloss detection sensor 250 irradiates the surface of the photographic print 62 with a spot-like light beam and reflects it. Receives light. It should be noted that the gloss detection sensor 250 may be arbitrarily selected so as not to interfere with the scanning unit 246 or the like, for example, withdrawing from the scanning unit 246 when reading an image or moving so as to face a predetermined position of the photographic print 62 when measuring gloss. The configuration can be applied.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 22, the print receiver 230 includes a preprocessing filter 252, an enlargement / reduction unit 254, and a sharpness processing unit 256 formed in the image processing unit 120 A, and image data read by the CCD line sensor 114. Is stored in the image memory 118, predetermined image processing is performed from the image memory 118 by the preprocessing filter 252, the enlargement / reduction unit 254, and the sharpness processing unit 256. The image data processed by the image processing unit 120A is displayed on a monitor (not shown) or output to the order information setting unit 126 (see FIG. 2).

  The print receiver 230 is provided with a determination unit 258 that determines the surface state of the photographic print 62 based on the measurement result of the gloss detection sensor 250.

  In general, the glossy-finished photographic print 62 is characterized by a sharp finish such as sharpness, but is easily affected by light reflection on the glossy surface. The silk-finished photographic print 62 is also called silk, and has a rounded and unique image, but has 1-100 μm irregularities formed on the emulsion surface.

  Furthermore, the matte-finished photographic print 62 is characterized by a calm atmosphere and a depiction (image formation) with a depth and a three-dimensional effect, which is also called semi-gloss, and has a reduced gloss.

  On the other hand, when the surface of the photographic print 62 is irradiated with a spot-like light beam, the reflected light is spot-like on the glossy surface, but the reflected light is diffused in a surface state with irregularities on the surface and no gloss.

  In other words, if the reflected light is close to the incident spot diameter, the surface is a smooth glossy surface, and the surface becomes rough (unevenness increases), so that the reflected light spreads and is finally diffused so that the spot disappears. The

  From here, in the determination unit 258, the gloss detection sensor 250 receives the reflected light of the spot-like light beam irradiated on the photographic print 62, and determines the surface state of the photographic print 62 by inputting the light reception result. Can do.

  As such a gloss detection sensor 250, a glossiness determination sensor PI-G (trade name) manufactured by Keyence Corporation can be used.

  A coefficient switching unit 260 is provided in the image processing unit 120A. In the coefficient switching unit 260, the coefficient used when the preprocessing filter 252 and the sharpness processing unit 256 perform processing on the image data is switched based on the determination result of the determination unit 258.

  As a result, the image processing unit 120A provided in the print accepting machine 230 automatically detects the surface state of the photographic print 62 so that appropriate image processing can be performed according to the surface state. In the print receiving machine 230, the processing conditions at this time are carried on the photographic print 62 as order information.

  The image processing unit 120A is provided with a SETUP unit 262 and a color reproduction 3DLUT 264. The SETUP unit 262 determines whether or not the image formed on the photographic print 62 is fading due to the influence of ultraviolet rays or the like. The color reproduction 3DLUT 264 performs image processing so as to reproduce the color before fading based on the determination result.

  Such image processing, for example, enables color reproduction by performing color separation based on image data, determining from the balance of each color, color, and the like, and performing reverse correction based on the determination result.

  That is, when it is determined that the image formed on the photographic print 62 is sepia or tint is sepia from the color balance and tint, parameters are set so as to restore the color balance or tint. By performing reverse correction, the color at the beginning of image formation (initial printing) is reproduced. When a margin is provided at the peripheral edge of the photographic print 62, the color of the margin is read to determine whether or not fading has occurred and to set parameters for color fading correction. Anyway.

  Here, as an operation of the second embodiment, an outline of processing based on the determination of the surface state of the photographic print 62 and the determination result by the print receiver 230 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the print receiving machine 230, when the photographic print 62 is inserted from the insertion port, the photographic print 62 is sandwiched and pulled by the insertion roller pair 236 and sent to the reading stage 234 of the scanner unit 232. Thereafter, when the photographic print 62 sent to the scanner unit 232 is placed at a predetermined position on the reading stage 234, the negative pressure source 238 is operated to hold the photographic print 62 on the reading stage 234 by suction.

  In general, a photographic print 62 in which an image is formed on a roll-shaped photographic paper may have curl or the like, which may be curled or curved. By holding such a photographic print 62 on the reading stage 234, it is possible to provide flatness, so that a misjudgment when judging the surface state, distortion of the image of the read image data, etc. It can be surely prevented from occurring.

  In addition, the structure which gives the photo print 62 flatness is not limited to this, and any conventionally known structure such as sandwiching with a pressing plate such as a mask or a transparent glass plate can be applied.

  In the print receiver 230, when the photographic print 62 is loaded in the scanner unit 232 and an image reading instruction is input or an order condition is input, when reading the image formed on the photographic print 62 is started, FIG. The flowchart shown in FIG.

  In this flowchart, in the first step 280, the gloss measurement of the surface of the photographic print 62 is performed using the gloss detection sensor 250, and the measurement result is read into the determination unit 258 (step 282).

  In the scanner unit 232, the gloss detection sensor 250 performs gloss measurement at a predetermined position of the photographic print 62 on the reading stage 234. However, the gloss detection sensor 250 may perform gloss measurement while moving the gloss detection sensor 250. The gloss detection sensor 250 may be provided to measure gloss, and the gloss at a plurality of locations on the surface of the photographic print 62 may be measured, thereby attaching to the surface of the photographic print 62. It is preferable because it can prevent erroneous determination due to dust or dust.

  In the next step 284, gloss determination which is determination of the surface state of the photographic print 62 is performed from the read measurement result. The gloss determination is performed by irradiating the photographic print 62 with a spot light beam and receiving the reflected light. At this time, determination is made based on whether the received light is spot-like or diffused.

  For example, when it is determined that the surface of the photographic print 62 is rough when the unevenness of the surface of the photographic print 62 is 10 μm or more, the convergence state of the reflected light (spot diameter, light amount, light amount) Whether the surface is glossy or not is determined based on the distribution).

  Here, if it is determined that the reflected light is a spot-like and glossy surface, an affirmative determination is made in step 284 and the process proceeds to step 286. In step 286, the coefficient used when the preprocessing filter 252 and the sharpness processing unit 256 process the image data is switched to a coefficient set in accordance with the glossy surface.

  For example, the coefficient relating to the preprocessing filter 252 is switched to a coefficient set so as to remove high frequency components included in the image data. Further, for example, in the photographic print 62 such as a silk finish, it is difficult for fingerprints to adhere to the surface, but on the glossy surface such as a glossy finish, the fingerprint is likely to adhere, so that a fingerprint erasing (fingerprint) process is performed. Switch to the coefficient set to.

  Further, the sharpness processing unit 256 is switched to a coefficient set so that the optimum sharpness processing is performed on the image data read from the glossy surface.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the surface is a non-glossy surface, a negative determination is made at step 284 and the process proceeds to step 288. In this step 288, the coefficient is set to match the non-glossy surface. In other words, switching to a coefficient set to suppress the removal of high-frequency components, switching to a coefficient set to suppress fingerprint erasure processing, etc., and optimal for image data read from the non-glossy surface Switch to a coefficient that is set to enable sharpness processing.

  When the surface type determination of the photographic print 62 and the coefficient switching based on the determination result are performed in this way, the process proceeds to step 290, the image is read using the CCD line sensor 114, and the read image data is stored in the image memory 118. Store. Further, in step 292, image processing is performed on the image data based on the coefficients switched according to the surface type in each of the preprocessing filter 252, the enlargement / reduction unit 254, and the sharpness processing unit 256.

  As described above, the print receiver 230 determines the surface type of the photographic print 62 and switches the coefficient based on the determination result. At this time, the surface condition of the photographic print 62 is obtained by switching to a coefficient set so as to enable optimum image processing according to the size of the irregularities (surface roughness) on the surface of the photographic print 62. Regardless, appropriate image data can be generated.

  In this embodiment, as an example, the surface of the photographic print 62 is determined in two stages, i.e., the glossy surface or the non-glossy surface. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the photographic print 62 is glossy such as glossy finish. Whether it is a surface, a semi-gloss surface such as a matte finish, and a non-gloss surface such as a silk finish, etc., is determined in multiple stages, and processing is performed to obtain appropriate image reading and image data according to each finish. It is also possible to switch to a coefficient set so that

  On the other hand, in the print receiving machine 230, when the image processing in the preprocessing filter 252 and the sharpness processing unit 256 corresponding to the type of the surface of the photographic print 62 is completed, the SETUP unit 262 determines whether or not fading occurs. For example, when color fading occurs in the color reproduction 3DLUT 264, image data that can reproduce the original image of the photographic print 62 is generated by performing reverse correction according to the color fading state.

  As a result, even if an image change such as fading occurs in the photographic print 62 brought in by the orderer, it is possible to create a photographic print 62 on which an original image is formed.

  In the second embodiment, the coefficient for performing image processing is switched according to the surface type (surface state) of the photographic print 62. However, when the image formed on the photographic print 62 is read. The irradiation angle of light emitted from the light source 244 toward the photographic print 62 may be switched.

  That is, in the scanner unit 232A shown in FIG. 24, the position of the light source 244A provided in the scanning unit 246A is switched based on the determination result of the determination unit 258 (not shown in FIG. 24).

When the surface of the photographic print 62 is uneven, as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 24, the irradiation angle α of light from the light source 244A to the surface of the photographic print 62 is reduced (α = α ₁ ). In some cases, the surface of the photographic print 62 may be shaded by unevenness.

On the glossy surface with extremely small surface irregularities, the CCD line sensor 114 can be used for the same image by increasing the irradiation angle α of the light applied to the photographic print 62 from the light source 244A (α = α ₂ , α ₂ > α ₁ ). In some cases, the amount of received light increases and the CCD array may be saturated.

From here, the scanner unit 232A, when the photographic print 62 is determined to be glossy surface, so that the irradiation angle alpha is irradiation angle alpha _1, the light source 244A moves to the position shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 24 , the surface of the photographic print 62 is determined to be a non-glossy surface, the irradiation angle alpha moves the light source 244A to the position shown in solid lines in Figure 24 so that the irradiation angle alpha _2.

  In this way, by switching the position of the light source 244A at the time of image reading according to the surface type (surface state) of the photographic print 62, an image formed on the photographic print 62 regardless of the surface state of the photographic print 62. Can be read properly. Further, by performing image processing on the read image data based on a coefficient switched according to the surface state of the photographic print 62, more appropriate image data can be obtained.

  In the scanner unit 232A, the light source 244A is moved according to the surface state of the photographic print 62. However, the light source 244A is not limited to this, and a plurality of light sources having different irradiation angles are arranged, depending on the surface state of the photographic print 62. The image may be read by switching to the selected light source.

  On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the light source movement type scanner unit 232 in which the light source 244 moves in the sub-scanning direction is described as the image reading unit. A light source fixed type image reading means for relatively moving the print 62 or the CCD line sensor 114 or the reflecting mirror is provided integrally or separately, and depending on the surface state of the photographic print 62, the light source moving type image reading means and the light source fixed type image reading means are provided. The image reading means may be switched.

  That is, when the surface of the photographic print 62 has irregularities, when the light source moving image reading means is used, the irregularities on the surface of the photographic print 62 may appear as shadows in the image data. Then, the light source fixing type image reading means may be used, and the glossy surface may be switched to use the light source fixing type or light source moving type image reading means.

  In the second embodiment, the print accepting machine is provided with the surface type determination means and the coefficient switching means based on the determination result, but the same configuration may be provided in the print processing apparatus. Appropriate image data can be generated from the photographic print 62 that has received the reprint order, regardless of the surface type of the photographic print 62, and a new photographic print 62 can be formed.

  Further, in the present embodiment described above, the photographic print 62 in which an image is formed on photographic paper is used as the image recording medium on which the image is formed. The present invention can be applied to copying an image formed on this image recording medium using a medium.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a print service system to which the present invention is applied. It is a schematic block diagram of the print receiving machine used for a print service system. It is the schematic which shows the conveyance path of the photographic print in the print receiving machine shown in FIG. (A) is a schematic diagram of a photographic print accepted by the print accepting machine, and (B) and (C) are schematic diagrams showing an example of a two-dimensional barcode printed as a label on the photographic print. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a print processing apparatus used in a print service system. 1 is an external view illustrating an example of a print processing apparatus. It is a schematic block diagram which shows an example of a printer processor. It is a schematic block diagram of the principal part which shows an example of a scanner. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of order reception. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of the printing process with respect to an acceptance order with a print acceptance machine. It is a schematic block diagram which shows another example of the print receiving machine applied to a printing system. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the print receiving machine applied to 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows an example of the print processing apparatus with respect to the print receiving machine of 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows another example of the print receiving machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows another example of the print processing apparatus applicable to 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the print receiving machine which shows another example of carrying | supporting order information. (A) is the schematic of the photographic print received with the print receiving machine of FIG. 16, (B) is the schematic which shows an example of an IC label. It is a schematic block diagram of the print processing apparatus with respect to the print receiving machine shown in FIG. It is a schematic block diagram of the scanner used for the print processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram of a print receiving machine as another example when carrying order information. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the principal part of the print receiving machine applied to 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the principal part of the print receiving machine applied to 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of the image reading by the print receiving machine applied to 2nd Embodiment. It is the schematic of the principal part which shows another example of the print receiving machine applied to this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10A Print processing device 12A Image processing device 28, 28A Scanner (image reading means)
50 photographic paper (image recording medium)
62 Photo print (image recording medium)
102B, 230 Print acceptor (image reader)
104, 232, 232A Scanner unit (image reading means)
120, 120A Image processing unit (image processing means)
124A operation panel 140 surface type input unit 140A, 140B surface type setting unit 142 surface type detection unit 142A, 142B surface type detection unit 144, 144A, 144B changeover switch 146 surface type setting unit 244, 244A light source (image reading unit)
246, 246A Scanning unit (image reading means)
250 Gloss detection sensor (detection means)
252 Preprocessing filter (image processing means)
256 Sharpness processing unit (image processing means)
258 determination unit (determination means)
260 Coefficient switching unit (image processing means)

Claims (5)

An image reading unit that receives reflected light of light emitted from the light source to the image recording medium, reads an image formed on the image recording medium by the image reading unit, and outputs image data corresponding to the image A reading device,
Determining means for determining a surface state of the image recording medium;
A reading processing unit that performs image reading from the image recording medium by the image reading unit based on a determination result of the determination unit, and performs predetermined processing on image data of the read image;
An image reading apparatus comprising:   The determination unit includes a detection unit that detects a surface roughness of the image recording medium, and determines a surface state of the image recording medium based on a detection result of the detection unit. Image reader.   The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reading processing unit includes an image processing unit that performs image processing based on a determination result of the determination unit.   4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the reading unit switches an irradiation angle of light applied to the image recording medium from the light source of the image reading unit based on a determination result of the determination unit. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1.   The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image recording medium is photographic paper.

Images