JPH1124863A - Print control device and method, and storage medium storing computer readable program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the expansion processing load to every band memory based on the generated intermediate data and to evade an over-print state by analyzing these intermediate data and controlling the bit map expansion to the intermediate data on every band. SOLUTION: A command analysis editing processing part 101 and an intermediate data generation part 104 interpret the image information to be inputted and generate the intermediate data which can be expanded to a bit map. A bit map generation part 106 generates a bit map image based on the intermediate data. A band memory 107 divides the bit map data and stores them in plural band areas. An object decision part 102A analyzes the intermediate data and decides the number of lines to be expanded over the band areas. The part 102A also controls the generation of the bit map based on the decided number of lines.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a print control apparatus, a print control method, and a computer for generating a drawing object by analyzing input image information and controlling a bitmap image developing process based on the generated drawing object. Is related to a storage medium storing a readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image output device, for example, a printer such as a well-known laser beam printer is connected to a host computer using a standard interface cable, and a page description language (PD) is transmitted from the host computer.
When an image signal described in L) is input, the image signal is interpreted, converted into a binary signal of bitmap data for output to a printer engine, and a hard copy is obtained from the printer. I have.

In recent years, a laser beam printer as a page printer is required to have high image quality, and a data processing resolution of 600 dpi or more is becoming mainstream. 600 dpi
In such a case, a bit map memory of about 4 MB in A4 full size is required, and the cost is increased due to higher image quality.

On the other hand, cost reduction is also required. Therefore, in order to reduce the increased memory capacity, a laser beam printer as a page printer does not have a bitmap memory for one page like a serial printer.
That is, it is developed as a bitmap in the band memory,
Many products that adopt a banding processing method of outputting in synchronization with a printer engine have been commercialized.

[0005]

However, in the above conventional example, particularly in the banding processing method, when a plurality of intermediate objects exist in each band, it is necessary to process all the intermediate objects for the band.
The processing becomes enormous, and there is a problem in that the printing speed is reduced and the generation of bitmap data due to the reduction is not sufficient for the processing speed of the printer engine, that is, a so-called print overrun occurs.

[0006] This is because even if there is only one raster in one band and it can be ignored as a print result, it is necessary to process the intermediate object for that band. .

In the case where the above-described print overrun occurs, in the printer apparatus, a bitmap memory is additionally provided, developed into a bitmap memory for one page, and output (hereinafter referred to as full paint processing), or the resolution is lowered. It is necessary to adopt a method of performing processing (hereinafter, degrade processing).

[0008] However, in the full paint process, it is necessary to add a memory, and further, the maximum throughput cannot be maintained. Further, in the degrading process, there is a problem that the resolution is lowered, so that the print quality is lowered.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to analyze generated intermediate data and control bitmap expansion for intermediate data extending over each band. Accordingly, the load on the expansion processing to each band memory based on the generated intermediate data can be reduced, and a print control apparatus, a print control method, and a computer that can normally output an intended image while avoiding a situation that results in print over are read out. It is to provide a storage medium storing a possible program.

[0010]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a first generating means for interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data which can be developed into a bitmap; Second generating means for generating a bitmap image based on the intermediate data generated by the generating means;
A band memory for dividing the bitmap data generated by the second generation unit into a plurality of band regions and storing the divided band data; and analyzing the intermediate data generated by the first generation unit and straddling each band region. And a control means for controlling bitmap generation by the second generation means based on the determination result of the determination means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the control means includes a step of, when the determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the second generation for each band area. This limits the start of bitmap generation by the means.

In a third aspect according to the present invention, the control means includes a step of, when the determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is "1", the second generation for each band area. This limits the start of bitmap generation by the means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the control means, when the determination means determines that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number without straddling each band area, determines that the The second generation unit executes bitmap generation.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the control means is arranged such that, when the determining means determines that the number of rasters is “1” without straddling each band area, the control means determines whether or not the number of rasters is “1”. The second generation unit executes bitmap generation.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a first generating means for interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data which can be developed into a bitmap, A second generation unit that generates a bitmap image based on the intermediate data, a band memory that divides the bitmap data generated by the second generation unit into a plurality of band regions, and stores the divided bandmap data. A first determining unit that analyzes the intermediate data generated by the generating unit and determines the number of lines developed over each band area and a set resolution; and a determination result of the first determining unit. Control means for controlling bitmap generation by the second generation means based on

In a seventh aspect according to the present invention, the control means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area by the first determination means is equal to or less than a predetermined number and the resolution set is high. If it is determined, the start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for each band area is restricted.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the control means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area by the first determination means is "1" and the resolution set is high. If it is determined, the start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for the corresponding band area is restricted.

In a ninth aspect according to the present invention, the control means is arranged such that the first determination means does not straddle each band area, the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number, and the set resolution is high. When it is determined that the resolution is the resolution, a bitmap is generated for each band area by the second generation unit.

In a tenth aspect according to the present invention, the control means is arranged so that the first determination means does not straddle each band area, the number of rasters is "1", and the set resolution is high. When it is determined that the resolution is the resolution, a bitmap is generated for each band area by the second generation unit.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a first generating step of interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data expandable into a bitmap, and based on the generated intermediate data Second to generate bitmap image
And a determining step of analyzing the generated intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area, and storing a bitmap image generated based on the determination result in a band memory. And a developing step of developing.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is "1", the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a bitmap image to be generated is developed in a band memory when the number of rasters is determined not to exceed a predetermined number without straddling each band area. is there.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, a bitmap image to be generated is developed in a band memory when the number of rasters is determined to be "1" without straddling each band area. is there.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and the resolution to be set is high, the bitmap image generated is It does not expand to band memory.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters extending over each band area is “1” and the resolution to be set is high, the bitmap image generated is It does not expand to band memory.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a first generation step of interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data which can be developed into a bitmap, and based on the generated intermediate data. Second to generate bitmap image
And a determining step of analyzing the generated intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area, and storing a bitmap image generated based on the determination result in a band memory. A computer-readable program including an expanding step of expanding is stored in a storage medium.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is "1", the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, if it is determined that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number without straddling each band area, a generated bitmap image is developed in a band memory. is there.

A twenty-second invention according to the present invention expands a generated bitmap image in a band memory when it is determined that the number of rasters is "1" without straddling each band area. is there.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and the resolution to be set is a high resolution, a bitmap image generated is determined. It does not expand to band memory.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is “1” and the set resolution is high, the bitmap image generated is It does not expand to band memory.

[0034]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[First Embodiment] Before describing the configuration of the present embodiment, the configurations of a laser beam printer and an inkjet printer suitable for applying the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The printer to which this embodiment is applied is
It is needless to say that the printer is not limited to the laser beam printer and the ink jet printer, but may be a printer of another printing method.

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing the configuration of an output device to which the present invention can be applied, and shows, for example, the case of a laser beam printer (LBP).

In the figure, reference numeral 1000 denotes an LBP main body (printer), which inputs and stores print information (character codes, etc.), form information, macro instructions, and the like supplied from an externally connected host computer; A corresponding character pattern or form pattern is created according to the information, and an image is formed on a recording medium such as a recording sheet.

An operation panel 1012 is provided with switches for operation, an LED display, and the like. 1001
Is a printer control unit for controlling the entire LBP main body 1000 and analyzing character information and the like supplied from the host computer. This printer control unit 1001
It mainly converts character information into a video signal of a corresponding character pattern and outputs the video signal to the laser driver 1002. The laser driver 1002 is a circuit for driving the semiconductor laser 1003, and switches on / off a laser beam 1004 emitted from the semiconductor laser 1003 according to an input video signal. The laser beam 1004 is rotated by the polygon mirror 100
The scanning is performed on the electrostatic drum 1006 while being swung in the left-right direction at 5.

As a result, an electrostatic latent image of a character pattern is formed on the electrostatic drum 1006. This latent image is developed by a developing unit 1007 disposed around the electrostatic drum 1006, and then transferred to a recording sheet.
A cut sheet is used as the recording paper, and the cut sheet recording paper is a paper cassette 100 mounted on the LBP main body 1000.
8 and feed roller 1009 and transport roller 1
010 and the conveying roller 1011 are taken into the apparatus and supplied to the electrostatic drum 1006. Also LBP
The main body 1000 is provided with at least one or more card slots (not shown) so that an optional font card and a control card (emulation card) having a different language system can be connected in addition to the built-in font.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a printer control system to which the print control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. Here, a laser beam printer (FIG. 1) will be described as an example. Note that, as long as the functions of the present invention are executed, the present invention is applicable to a single device, a system including a plurality of devices, and a system in which processing is performed via a network such as a LAN. It goes without saying that the invention can be applied.

In the figure, reference numeral 3000 denotes a host computer which executes document processing in which graphics, images, characters, tables (including spreadsheets, etc.) are mixed based on a document processing program or the like stored in a program ROM of the ROM 3. C
The CPU 1 has a PU 1 and controls each device connected to the system bus 4 as a whole.

The program ROM of the ROM 3
Stores a control program of the CPU 1 and the like.
The font ROM stores font data and the like used in the above document processing, and the ROM 3 stores data in the ROM 3 in various data (for example, fixed patterns, test print forms, etc.) used in the above document processing. ) Is stored.

Reference numeral 2 denotes a RAM, which functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 1. A keyboard controller (KBC) 5 controls a key input from a keyboard 9 or a pointing device (not shown). Reference numeral 6 denotes a CRT controller (CRTC), and a CRT display (CR
T) Control the display of 10. Reference numeral 7 denotes a memory controller (MC) which controls access to an external memory 11 such as a hard disk (HD) or a floppy disk (FD) for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, edit files, and the like.

8 is a printer controller (PRTC)
A predetermined bidirectional interface (interface)
The communication device 21 is connected to the printer 1000 via the printer 21 and executes communication control processing with the printer 1000.

The CPU 1 executes, for example, a process of developing (rasterizing) the outline font in the display information RAM set on the RAM 2, and executes the process on the CRT 10.
YSIWYG is possible. Further, the CPU 1
Various registered windows are opened based on a command specified by a mouse cursor or the like (not shown) on the RT 10,
Perform various data processing.

In the printer 1000, reference numeral 12 denotes a printer CPU (CPU),
M or the external memory 1
4 to control overall access to various devices connected to the system bus 15 based on a control program and the like stored in the printer 4 and output to a printing unit (printer engine) 17 connected via a printing unit interface 16. An image signal as information is output.

The program RO in the ROM 13 is
M stores a control program of the CPU 12 and the like. R
The font ROM of the OM 13 stores font data and the like used when generating the output information.
The data ROM has an external memory 1 such as a hard disk.
In the case of a printer having no printer, information used on the host computer is stored. The CPU 12 can perform communication processing with the host computer 3000 via the input unit 18 and can notify the host computer 3000 of information in the printer and the like.

Reference numeral 19 denotes a RAM functioning as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 12, which is configured so that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an additional port (not shown). Note that RA
M19 is an output information development area, environment data storage area, N
Used for VRAM and the like. Hard disk (H
D), access to the external memory 14 such as an IC card is controlled by a memory controller (MC) 20. The external memory 14 is connected as an option, and stores font data, an emulation program, form data, and the like. Reference numeral 1012 denotes the above-described operation panel on which switches for operation, an LED display, and the like are arranged.

The above-mentioned external memory is not limited to one, and at least one external memory is provided. In addition to the built-in fonts, an optional font card and a plurality of external memories storing programs for interpreting printer control languages of different languages are connected. It may be configured to be able to. Further, an NVRAM (not shown) may be provided to store printer mode setting information from the operation panel 1012.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the print control apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. For example, in the case of an intermediate object in which only one raster exists in one band, bitmap data is used. It is characterized in that it is controlled not to expand.

In the figure, reference numeral 101 denotes a command analysis / edit processing unit, for example, the host computer 300 shown in FIG.
The PDL data input from 0 or the like is analyzed and edited.
An intermediate data generation unit 104 generates intermediate data called a drawing object from the PDL data. A page buffer 105 holds the intermediate data generated by the intermediate data generation unit 104.

Reference numeral 102A denotes an object determination unit which determines a drawing object held in the page buffer 105.
The result is output to bitmap generation section 106. 10
Reference numeral 7 denotes a band memory, which secures the capacity of two bands obtained by dividing a page into bands on a strip obtained by dividing a page in the drawing process perpendicularly to the transport direction. An engine output control unit 108 controls the transfer of the bitmap image developed in the band memory 107 to the engine 109.

In the printing control apparatus configured as described above, the first generating means (command analysis / edit processing unit 101, intermediate data Generation unit 104)
A second generation unit (bitmap generation unit 106) for generating a bitmap image based on the intermediate data generated by the first generation unit; and a bitmap data generated by the second generation unit. Memory (band memory 107) for dividing the data into a plurality of band areas and storing the divided data, and analyzing the intermediate data generated by the first generation means to determine the number of lines developed over each band area Determining means (object determining unit 10
2A) and the second determination based on the determination result of the determination means.
And a control unit (also used by the object determination unit 102A) for controlling the generation of the bitmap by the generation unit, so that the intermediate data that should be expanded over a plurality of bands but can be ignored and the other intermediate data Thus, the drawing load in the conventional band expansion processing can be reduced, and the expansion processing time can be shortened.

When the object determination unit 102A determines that the number of rasters extending over each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the bit map generation unit 1
06, the start of bitmap generation is limited, so that bitmap expansion of intermediate data which is intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands but has a negligible number of rasters equal to or less than a predetermined number can be limited. Can be reduced, and the development processing time can be shortened.

Further, the object determination unit 102A
When it is determined that the number of rasters over each band area is “1”, the bitmap generation unit 10 for each band area is determined.
6, the start of bitmap generation is restricted, so that bitmap expansion of intermediate data that should be expanded over a plurality of bands but has a negligible number of rasters of “1” can be limited. Can be reduced, and the development processing time can be shortened.

Hereinafter, the first data processing of the print control apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing an example of a first data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (11) indicate each step.

The host computer 3000 shown in FIG.
(1), the data is temporarily stored in a reception buffer secured on the RAM 19, and then the command analysis / edit processing unit 101 analyzes and edits the command (2). The data analyzed and edited by the command is sent to the intermediate data generation unit 104 to generate intermediate data (3) and stored in the page buffer 105 (4).

Then, it is determined whether one page of intermediate data has been processed (5). If NO, the above steps (2) to (2) are performed until one page of intermediate data is processed.
Repeat (4).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that one page of intermediate data is stored in the page buffer 105, the intermediate data is stored in the object determination unit 1
At 02A, it is determined whether or not the intermediate object has only one raster in one band (6). When it is determined that only one raster exists, the bitmap generation unit 106 is notified not to process the intermediate object. Then (7), the process proceeds to step (8) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the object determination unit 102A does not include only one raster in one band, the drawing object is sent to the bitmap generation unit 106, and the intermediate object to be processed is processed. The data is expanded into a bitmap (8).

Next, the developed bit map is stored in the band memory 107 (9),
Is stored in the engine output control unit 108.
To the engine 10 while synchronizing with the engine.
9, printing is performed (10), and it is determined whether all of the intermediate data for one page stored in the page buffer 105 has been processed (11). If YES, the process ends. Return to 6).

The process of expanding the bitmap by the bitmap generator 106 must be equal to or faster than the process of inputting the bitmap to the engine 109.

Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, one raster determination processing operation by object determination unit 102A shown in FIG. 3, that is, intermediate data stored in page buffer 105 in object determination unit 102A will be described. An example of determining whether only one raster exists in one band will be described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a one-raster judgment processing state by the object judgment unit 102A shown in FIG.
This corresponds to a state representing the position of each band and each intermediate object.

FIG. 7 shows the page buffer 10 shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an object table secured in No. 5;

In FIG. 6, after the processing of band 1, in the processing of band 2, the object determining unit 102A determines whether or not the object A exists in band 2.
That is, it is determined whether or not the condition (Y1 <y1 (drawing end position of the object A) <Y2) is satisfied. If the above condition is satisfied, it is further determined whether or not the object A is one raster. That is, it is determined whether the condition (y1-Y1 = 1) is satisfied.

If the above condition is satisfied, 1
Since only a raster exists, in this case, the object A is not processed, and is not expanded into a bitmap.

Next, the object B is processed. Since the object B does not have only one raster,
Object B is processed and developed into a bitmap.

In the above configuration, a case has been described in which only the presence or absence of only one rusk in one band is determined from the y coordinate information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Only in the following cases, it is possible not to process the intermediate object.

Further, it is determined whether only one raster exists in one band. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
It is also possible to evaluate only a specific object in view of the type of the intermediate object.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining the arrangement of a printing control apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. is there.

In the figure, reference numeral 102B denotes an object determination unit which determines whether or not an intermediate object having only one raster in one band is an isolated point or one dot line.

In the printing control apparatus configured as described above, when the object determination unit 102B determines that the number of rasters is "1" without straddling the band area, the object determination unit 102B performs the second determination for each band area. Since the bitmap generation is executed by the generation unit, the intended image information is output without loss even if the intermediate data is raster data of “1” as long as the intermediate data is to be developed without straddling a plurality of bands. be able to.

Hereinafter, the second data processing of the print control apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

FIGS. 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing an example of the second data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, (1) to (12) indicate each step.

The host computer 3000 shown in FIG.
(1), the data is temporarily stored in a reception buffer secured on the RAM 19, and then the command analysis / edit processing unit 101 analyzes and edits the command (2). The data analyzed and edited by the command is sent to the intermediate data generation unit 104 to generate intermediate data (3) and stored in the page buffer 105 (4).

Then, it is determined whether or not one page of intermediate data has been processed (5). If NO, the above steps (2) to (2) are performed until one page of intermediate data is processed.
Repeat (4).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step (5) that the intermediate data for one page is stored in the page buffer 105, the intermediate data is
At 02B, it is determined whether or not the intermediate object has only one raster in one band (6). When it is determined that only one raster exists, the intermediate object further has an isolated point (one dot) or one dot. It is determined whether the line is a line (12), and if it is an isolated point or a one-dot line, the intermediate object is processed. If it is not an isolated point or a one-dot line, the bitmap generation unit 106 is notified not to process the intermediate object. Then (7), the process proceeds to step (8) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the object determination unit 102B does not include only one raster in one band, the drawing object is sent to the bitmap generation unit 106, and the intermediate object to be processed is processed. The data is expanded into a bitmap (8).

Next, the developed bitmap is stored in the band memory 107 (9),
Is stored in the engine output control unit 108.
To the engine 10 while synchronizing with the engine.
9, printing is performed (10), and it is determined whether all the intermediate data for one page stored in the page buffer 105 has been processed (11). If YES, the processing is terminated.
If NO, the process returns to step (6).

The process of expanding the bitmap by the bitmap generator 106 must be equal to or faster than the process of inputting the bitmap to the engine 109.

Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 11, one-raster judgment processing operation by object judgment section 102B shown in FIG. 8, ie, in object judgment section 102B,
The intermediate data stored in the page buffer 105 is 1
An example of determining whether there is only one raster in a band and whether the intermediate object is an isolated point or a one-dot line will be described.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the state of the process of determining an isolated point and one dot line by the object determining unit 102B shown in FIG. 8, and corresponds to a state in which the position of each band and each intermediate object is represented. The process of determining whether there is only one raster in one band is the same as in the first embodiment.

In the object determining unit 102B, 1
If it is determined that there is only one raster in the band, it is determined whether the intermediate object is an isolated point or a one-dot line as follows.

That is, as shown in FIG.
After it is determined that only one raster exists for the object A in the processing of (1), it is further determined whether or not the object A exists in the preceding and succeeding bands (band 1 in this example). That is, it is determined whether or not the condition (Y1 ≦ y0) is satisfied. If the above condition is satisfied, the object A does not exist in the band 1 and therefore, the isolated point or 1
It is a dot line. In this case, the intermediate object is processed and developed into a bitmap.

In the above configuration, it is determined whether or not an intermediate point is an isolated point or a one-dot line. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to do so.

[Third Embodiment] FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print control apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment, and corresponds to an exemplary embodiment in which one raster process is not performed only when the resolution is high. The same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In FIG. 12, reference numeral 102C denotes an object determination unit which determines whether or not an intermediate object having only one raster in one band is high-resolution data. A resolution switching control unit 110 is, for example, an operation panel 10 on the printer 1000 shown in FIG.
The command processing / edit processing unit 101, the intermediate data generation unit 104, the bit map generation unit 106, and the engine output control unit 108
, And the command analysis / edit processing unit 101, the intermediate data generation unit 104, the bitmap generation unit 106, and the engine output control unit 108 are each configured to process the input data according to the set resolution. The process of determining whether there is only one raster in one band is the same as in the first embodiment.

In the printing control apparatus configured as described above, first generating means (command analysis / edit processing section 101) for interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data which can be developed into a bitmap, A second generation unit (bitmap generation unit 1) for generating a bitmap image based on the intermediate data generated by the first generation unit;
06), a band memory (band memory 107) for dividing the bitmap data generated by the second generation means into a plurality of band areas and storing the divided band areas, and the intermediate data generated by the first generation means. And the first determination means (object determination unit 102C) for determining the number of lines developed over each band area and the set resolution, and the second determination means based on the determination result of the determination means. Since it has a control means (also serving as the object determination unit 102C) for controlling the bitmap generation by the generation means, it is intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands but negligible high-resolution intermediate data and other intermediate data. By identifying the intermediate data, the drawing load in the conventional band development processing can be reduced, and the development processing time can be shortened.

When the object determination unit 102C determines that the number of rasters over each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and that the resolution to be set is high, the bit map generation unit 106C for each band area is determined. , The start of bitmap generation is limited, so that bitmap expansion of intermediate data that is high-resolution intermediate data that should be expanded over a plurality of bands but has a negligible number of rasters equal to or less than a predetermined number can be limited. The drawing load in the development processing can be reduced, and the development processing time can be shortened.

Further, the object determination unit 102C
When it is determined that the number of rasters over each band area is “1” and the resolution to be set is high, the start of bitmap generation by the bitmap generation unit 106 for the corresponding band area is limited. It is possible to limit the bitmap development of the intermediate data having high resolution, but negligible raster number "1", which should be developed over a plurality of bands, and reduce the drawing load in the conventional band development processing. Processing time can be reduced.

If the object determination unit 102C determines that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number and that the resolution to be set is high, it does not extend over each band area, Since the bitmap generation by the map generation unit 106 is performed, even if the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the bitmap can be reliably generated if the high-resolution intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling a plurality of bands. And intended image information can be output without omission.

Further, the object determination unit 102C
If it is determined that the number of rasters is “1” and that the resolution to be set is a high resolution without straddling each band area, the bitmap generation unit 1 for each band area is determined.
06, the bitmap is reliably developed even if the number of rasters is "1" if the intermediate data is high-resolution intermediate data that should be developed without straddling a plurality of bands. Thus, the intended image information can be output without loss.

Hereinafter, the third data processing of the print control apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

FIGS. 13 and 14 are flowcharts showing an example of the third data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, (1) to (12) indicate each step.

When data is input from the host computer shown in FIG. 2 (1), the data is temporarily stored in a reception buffer secured on the RAM 19, and then analyzed and edited by the command analysis / edit processing unit 101. Perform (2). The data analyzed and edited by the command is sent to the intermediate data generation unit 104 to generate intermediate data (3) and stored in the page buffer 105 (4).

Then, it is determined whether one page of intermediate data has been processed (5). If NO, the above steps (2) through (2) are performed until one page of intermediate data is processed.
Repeat (4).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step (5) that the intermediate data for one page is stored in the page buffer 105, the intermediate data is
At 02C, it is determined whether the object is an intermediate object having only one raster in one band (6). When it is determined that only one raster exists, it is further determined whether the data processing resolution is high (12). If it is determined that the resolution is low, the process proceeds to step (8). If it is determined that the resolution is high, the bitmap generation unit 106 is notified not to process the intermediate object (7), Proceed to step (8) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the object determination section 102C determines that only one raster is included in one band, the drawing object is sent to the bitmap generation section 106, and the intermediate object to be processed is processed. The data is expanded into a bitmap (8).

Next, the developed bit map is stored in the band memory 107 (9),
Is stored in the engine output control unit 108.
To the engine 10 while synchronizing with the engine.
9, printing is performed (10), and it is determined whether all the intermediate data for one page stored in the page buffer 105 has been processed (11).
If O, return to step (6).

The process of expanding the bitmap by the bitmap generator 106 must be equal to or faster than the process of inputting the bitmap to the engine 109.

Further, in the above configuration, the intermediate object having only one raster is not processed only when the data processing resolution is high. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is of course possible to adopt a configuration in which the forms are appropriately combined.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of each embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 5, 9, 10, 13, and 14.

In the printing control method configured as described above, a first generation step (FIGS. 4, 9, and 13) of interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data expandable to a bitmap. (1) to (3)), a second generation step of generating a bitmap image based on the generated intermediate data (step (8) of FIGS. 4, 9, and 13); A determining step of analyzing the generated intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area (step (6) in FIGS. 4, 9, and 13);
A developing step of developing a bitmap image generated based on the determination result in a band memory (FIGS. 4, 9, and 1)
3 (9)), the intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands, which can be ignored, is discriminated from the intermediate data other than the intermediate data, and the drawing in the conventional band expansion processing is performed. The burden can be reduced and the development processing time can be reduced.

When it is determined that the number of rasters over each band area is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory, so that the intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands is not generated. However, bitmap development of intermediate data having a negligible number of rasters equal to or less than a predetermined number can be limited, so that the drawing load in the conventional band development processing can be reduced and the development processing time can be reduced.

Further, if it is determined that the number of rasters over each band area is "1", the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory, so that the intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands is However, bitmap development of intermediate data whose negligible raster number is “1” can be limited, rendering load in conventional band development processing can be reduced, and development processing time can be shortened.

Further, if it is determined that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number without straddling each band area, the generated bitmap image is developed in the band memory. As long as the intermediate data is to be processed, even if the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the bitmap can be reliably developed and the intended image information can be output without loss.

Further, if it is determined that the number of rasters is "1" without straddling each band area, the generated bitmap image is developed in the band memory, so that it is developed without straddling a plurality of bands. If it is intermediate data to be processed, even if the number of rasters is "1",
The bitmap can be reliably developed and the intended image information can be output without omission.

Further, when it is determined that the number of rasters extending over each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and the resolution to be set is high, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. If the high resolution intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling the band, even if the number of rasters is equal to or less than the predetermined number, the bitmap is surely expanded and the intended image information is output without loss. be able to.

Further, when it is determined that the number of rasters extending over each band area is “1” and the resolution to be set is a high resolution, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. If high-resolution intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling the band, even if the number of rasters is “1”, the bitmap is reliably expanded and the intended image information is output without loss. be able to.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the print control apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator and the like are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, a program is stored. An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

The functions shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 13, and FIG. 14 in this embodiment may be executed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, the CD-R
The present invention is applicable even when a group of information including a program is supplied to an output device from a storage medium such as an OM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes a novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

Examples of the storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM,
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and 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. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

[0122]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, the first generating means for interpreting the input image information and generating intermediate data expandable to a bitmap, and the bit based on the intermediate data generated by the first generating means A second generation unit that generates a map image; a band memory that stores the bitmap data generated by the second generation unit in a plurality of band regions; and a band memory that is generated by the first generation unit. Determining means for analyzing the intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area; and control means for controlling bitmap generation by the second generating means based on the determination result of the determining means. Since it has intermediate data that should be developed over a plurality of bands but is negligible,
The drawing load in the conventional band developing process can be reduced, and the developing process time can be shortened.

According to the second invention, when the determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the control means sets the bit by the second generation means for each band area. Since the start of map generation is restricted,
Bitmap expansion of intermediate data that is intermediate data that should be expanded over a plurality of bands but has a negligible number of rasters equal to or less than a predetermined number can be limited, reducing the drawing load in the conventional band expansion processing and reducing the expansion processing time. Can be shortened.

According to the third aspect, the control means, when the determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is "1", the bit generated by the second generation means for each band area. Since the start of map generation is restricted, bitmap development of intermediate data that is negligible but has raster number of “1”, which is intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands, can be limited, and the drawing load in the conventional band expansion processing Can be reduced, and the development processing time can be shortened.

According to the fourth invention, the control means, if the determination means determines that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number without straddling each band area, the second control means for each band area. Since the bitmap is generated by the generation unit, if the intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling a plurality of bands, even if the number of rasters is intermediate data of a predetermined number or less, the bitmap is surely expanded, It is possible to output intended image information without omission.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the determination means determines that the number of rasters is “1” without straddling each band area, the control means determines whether the second number of rasters is equal to or smaller than the second number. Since the bitmap generation is executed by the generation unit, the intended image information is output without loss even if the intermediate data is raster data of “1” as long as the intermediate data is to be developed without straddling a plurality of bands. be able to.

According to the sixth aspect, the first generating means for interpreting the input image information and generating intermediate data which can be developed into a bitmap, and the first generating means A second generation unit that generates a bitmap image based on the intermediate data, a band memory that divides the bitmap data generated by the second generation unit into a plurality of band regions and stores the divided band regions, First determining means for analyzing the intermediate data generated by the means to determine the number of lines developed over each band area and a set resolution; and a determination result of the first determining means. And control means for controlling the bitmap generation by the second generation means, so that the intermediate data to be developed over a plurality of bands but negligible high resolution To identify the intermediate data and other intermediate data, reduce drawing load in the conventional band expansion process, can shorten the development processing time.

According to the seventh aspect, the control means determines that the first determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and that the set resolution is a high resolution. In addition, since the start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for each band area is limited, the number of rasters that are high-resolution intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands but can be ignored is a predetermined number or less. Bitmap expansion of data can be restricted, rendering load in conventional band expansion processing can be reduced, and expansion processing time can be shortened.

According to the eighth aspect, the control means determines that the first determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is "1" and the set resolution is high. In addition, since the start of the bitmap generation by the second generation unit for the corresponding band area is restricted, the number of rasters which is high-resolution intermediate data to be expanded over a plurality of bands but can be ignored is “1”. Bitmap expansion of intermediate data can be restricted, rendering load in conventional band expansion processing can be reduced, and expansion processing time can be shortened.

According to the ninth aspect, the control means is such that the first determination means does not straddle each band area, the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number, and the resolution set is high. When it is determined that the bitmap is generated by the second generation unit for each band area, the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number if the high-resolution intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling a plurality of bands. , The bitmap can be reliably developed and the intended image information can be output without loss.

According to the tenth aspect, the control means includes:
When the first determination unit determines that the number of rasters is “1” and the set resolution is high resolution without straddling each band region, the second generation unit for each band region is determined. , The bitmap is reliably developed even if the number of rasters is “1” if the high-resolution intermediate data is to be developed without straddling a plurality of bands. It is possible to output intended image information without omission.

According to the eleventh and eighteenth aspects, a first generation step of interpreting input image information and generating intermediate data expandable to a bitmap, and A second generation step of generating a bitmap image based on the image data, a determination step of analyzing the generated intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area, and a generation step based on the determination result. And a developing step of developing the bitmap image to be performed in the band memory, the intermediate data to be developed over a plurality of bands, but negligible intermediate data and other intermediate data are identified, Can reduce the drawing load in the band development processing, and can shorten the development processing time.

According to the twelfth and nineteenth aspects, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than the predetermined number, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory, so that a plurality of It is possible to limit bitmap development of intermediate data which is raster data which is negligible but is not more than a predetermined number which is raster data that should be rasterized over the data, and reduces drawing load in conventional band rasterization processing and shortens rasterization processing time.

According to the thirteenth and twentieth aspects, when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is “1”,
Since the generated bitmap image is not developed in the band memory, it is possible to limit the bitmap development of the intermediate data having the number of rasters “1” which is negligible but is intermediate data to be developed over a plurality of bands. The drawing load in the band development processing can be reduced, and the development processing time can be shortened.

According to the fourteenth and twenty-first aspects, the generated bitmap image is developed in the band memory when the number of rasters is determined not to exceed the predetermined number without straddling each band area. As long as the intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling a plurality of bands, even if the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the bitmap is reliably expanded and the intended image information is output without loss Can be.

According to the fifteenth and twenty-second aspects, if the number of rasters is determined to be "1" without straddling each band area, the generated bitmap image is developed in the band memory. As long as the intermediate data is to be expanded without straddling a plurality of bands, even if the number of rasters is "1", the bitmap is reliably expanded and the intended image information is output without loss. Can be.

According to the sixteenth and twenty-third aspects, the bitmap image generated when the number of rasters over each band area is equal to or less than the predetermined number and the set resolution is determined to be high. Is not developed in the band memory, so if the high-resolution intermediate data is to be developed without straddling a plurality of bands, even if the number of rasters is less than or equal to the predetermined number, the bitmap is surely developed, It is possible to output intended image information without omission.

According to the seventeenth and twenty-fourth aspects, the bitmap image generated when the number of rasters straddling each band area is “1” and the set resolution is determined to be high resolution Is not expanded to the band memory,
For high-resolution intermediate data that should be expanded without straddling multiple bands, even if the number of rasters is "1", the bitmap is reliably expanded and the intended image information is output without loss. can do.

[0139] Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load on each band memory based on the generated intermediate data, and to normally output the intended image while avoiding a situation in which printover occurs.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of an output device to which the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer control system to which the print control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print control apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a one-raster determination processing state by an object determination unit illustrated in FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an object table secured in a page buffer illustrated in FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print control apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a state of a process of determining an isolated point and one dot line by the object determination unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print control apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure of the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the print control device according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 101 Command analysis / edit processing unit 102A Object determination unit 104 Intermediate data generation unit 105 Page buffer 106 Bitmap generation unit 107 Band memory 108 Engine output control unit 109 Engine

Claims (24)

[Claims] A first generation unit that interprets input image information and generates intermediate data that can be developed into a bitmap; and a bitmap based on the intermediate data generated by the first generation unit. A second generation unit that generates an image, a band memory that stores the bitmap data generated by the second generation unit in a plurality of band areas, and the band memory that is generated by the first generation unit. Determining means for analyzing the intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area; controlling means for controlling bitmap generation by the second generating means based on the determination result of the determining means; A print control device comprising: 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein when the determination unit determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the control unit restricts the start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for each band area. 2. The printing control device according to claim 1, wherein 3. The control unit limits the start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for each band region when the determination unit determines that the number of rasters straddling each band region is “1”. 2. The printing control device according to claim 1, wherein 4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the determining unit determines that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number without straddling each band region. 2. The print control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the generation is executed. 5. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the determining unit determines that the number of rasters is “1” without straddling each band region, and the bitmap generated by the second generating unit for each band region. 2. The print control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the generation is executed. 6. A first generating means for interpreting input image information to generate intermediate data expandable into a bitmap, and a bitmap based on the intermediate data generated by the first generating means. A second generation unit that generates an image, a band memory that stores the bitmap data generated by the second generation unit in a plurality of band areas, and the band memory that is generated by the first generation unit. First determining means for analyzing the intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area and the set resolution; and the second generation based on the determination result of the first determining means. Control means for controlling bitmap generation by the means;
A print control device comprising: 7. The control means, when the first determination means determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and that the set resolution is high,
7. The printing control apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for each band area is restricted. 8. The control unit, when the first determination unit determines that the number of rasters straddling each band area is “1” and the resolution to be set is high, the corresponding band is determined. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein a start of bitmap generation by the second generation unit for an area is restricted.
The printing control device according to the above. 9. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein said first determining unit determines that the number of rasters is equal to or less than a predetermined number without straddling each band area and that the resolution to be set is high. 7. The print control apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second generation unit executes bitmap generation for each band area. 10. The control means, wherein the first determination means does not straddle each band area and the number of rasters is "1".
7. The print control apparatus according to claim 6, wherein when it is determined that the resolution to be set is a high resolution, the second generation unit executes bitmap generation for each band area. 11. A first generation step of interpreting input image information to generate intermediate data expandable into a bitmap, and a second generation step of generating a bitmap image based on the generated intermediate data. A determination step of analyzing the generated intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area; and storing a bitmap image generated based on the determination result in a band memory. And a developing step of developing. 12. The print control method according to claim 11, wherein when it is determined that the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. 13. The number of rasters straddling each band area is “1”.
12. The printing control method according to claim 11, wherein when it is determined that the bitmap image is not generated, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. 14. The bitmap image generated according to claim 11, wherein the generated bitmap image is expanded in a band memory when the number of rasters is determined not to exceed a predetermined number without straddling each band area. Print control method. 15. The bitmap image generated according to claim 11, wherein the generated bitmap image is expanded in a band memory when the number of rasters is determined to be “1” without straddling each band area. Print control method. 16. When the number of rasters extending over each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and it is determined that the set resolution is high, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. The print control method according to claim 11, wherein 17. The number of rasters straddling each band area is “1”.
12. The print control method according to claim 11, wherein when it is determined that the resolution to be set is a high resolution, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. 18. A first generation step of interpreting input image information to generate intermediate data developable into a bitmap, and a second generation step of generating a bitmap image based on the generated intermediate data. A determination step of analyzing the generated intermediate data to determine the number of lines developed over each band area; and storing a bitmap image generated based on the determination result in a band memory. A storage medium storing a computer readable program, comprising: a developing step of developing. 19. The computer-readable computer according to claim 18, wherein when it is determined that the number of rasters extending over each band area is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. Storage medium storing various programs. 20. The number of rasters straddling each band area is “1”.
19. The storage medium according to claim 18, wherein the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory when it is determined that 21. The bitmap image generated according to claim 18, wherein the generated bitmap image is expanded in a band memory when the number of rasters is determined not to exceed a predetermined number without straddling each band area. A storage medium that stores a computer-readable program. 22. The bitmap image according to claim 18, wherein the generated bitmap image is expanded in a band memory when the number of rasters is determined to be “1” without straddling each band area. A storage medium that stores a computer-readable program. 23. When the number of rasters straddling each band area is equal to or less than a predetermined number and the determined resolution is determined to be high, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to claim 18. 24. The number of rasters straddling each band area is “1”.
19. The computer-readable program according to claim 18, wherein when it is determined that the set resolution is a high resolution, the generated bitmap image is not expanded in the band memory. Storage medium.