Patent ID: 6157459
Filing Date: 2000-12-05
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
An image data processing method comprising the steps of:storing image data representing a plurality of groups of picture images, and storing associated information for processing the image data;classifying the stored image data based upon the associated processing information such that image data stored in association with similar processed information are classified together; andprocessing together, image data similarly classified, based upon associated processing information, wherein image data representing images of different groups are classified and processed together when associated with similar processing information and image data representing images of a same group are classified and processed separately when associated with different processing information,wherein the processing step comprises the substeps of,sorting the classified processing information in such an order that processing efficiency is relatively maximized; andcarrying out the processing according to the sorted order,and wherein the processing information includes information instructing printing of image data on one of a plurality of different printing materials; andthe order is an order in which printing material exchange is minimized.