Abstract:
A problem that setting (setting the kind of a paper or a printout method) for achieving the print effect (gloss effect or matte effect) at a maximum is very complicated and therefore, a manual setting thereof by a user is very difficult. When image data which a user desires to pint and a desire for a print effect to transparent form image data ate input, the paper type, conversion of the transparent form, image data and a printout method for realizing the print effect are automatically set and printed out.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD  
       [0001]    The present invention relates to an image forming device which can automatically perform many complex, processes generated for realizing selection of a visual effect at the time of outputting a print using transparent toner. 
       Background Art 
       [0002]    Recently a digital printing technology has certainly had an increasing use value in an on-demand print market or a document print market for a small great number of copies. Particularly a full color printing using an electrographic technology is more advantageous in terms of productivity, print costs, easiness of maintenance and the like than the other printing technologies, and therefore, the market of the fell color printing has been rapidly spreading. Among this recent trend, particularly not only the conventional fall color printing by the electrographic printing using toner of a four colors of CMYBk but also further, a printing system, of multi colors using specific toner has been focused on, which aims at entering into a specific printing market with on-demand properties and high immediacy. An example of the specific toner includes transparent toner which can absorb convexity and concavity on a surface of a printout document to realize high glossiness, light toner which can restrict a rough surface of a highlighted portion, and the like. Use of the specific toner allows a new added value different from a value of the usual digital printing, making it possible to further expand the world of the digital printing. From the above-mentioned background, a color complex machine (hereinafter, referred to as MFP) using the specific toner has been brought to the market. 
         [0003]    Among the specific toner, particularly the transparent toner is proposed to be used for compensating for lack of a glossy feeling which a user feels in regard to a printout document. Patent Document 1 proposes a method in which a plain paper as a non-coated paper is used in a case where a coated paper is mi mounted at the time of attempting a printing process onto the coated paper, but transparent toner is used on a portion where the surface is white and is used as an application for enhancing glossiness. Further, Patent Document 2 proposes a method in which transparent ink is used on a location in a photo in which ink is not used to hold uniformity of glossiness in the photo. 
         [0004]    However, the use purpose of the transparent toner is to achieve a gloss effect only. The transparent toner is not one to be used only for creating the gloss effect. It is also possible to achieve a matte effect depending on a paper or a printout method to be used. In addition, there is left a problem that setting (setting the kind of a paper or a printout method) for achieving the print effect (gloss effect or matte effect) at a maximum is very complicated and therefore, the manual setting by a user is very difficult. 
       CITATION LIST 
     Patent Literature 
       [0005]    [PTL 1] Japanese Patent Laid -Open No. 2007-047403 
         [0006]    [PTL 2] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-119279 
       SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
       [0007]    An image forming device in the present invention comprises first selecting means for selecting a gloss effect creating a glossy feeling to a printout document or a matte effect creating a matte feeling to the printout document in a case of printing an input image on a print paper to obtain the printout document, second selecting means for selecting quality priority for prioritizing a quality of the printout document or speed priority for priori fixing a print speed thereof, first printout, means in which in a case where the matte effect is selected by the first selecting means, toner of four colors of cyan, magenta, yellow and black and transparent toner is used to perform printing on a coated paper for obtaining the printout document by printing the image, and the printing is completed by one-time fixing, second printout means in which in a case where the gloss effect is selected by the first selecting means and the quality priority is selected by the second selecting means, the toner of the four colors of the cyan, magenta, yellow and black is used to perform, printing and fixing on the coated paper for obtaining the printout document by priming the image, and thereafter, further reverse transparent form image data reversing transparent form image data printed using transparent toner among image data constituting the input image are printed and fixed using the transparent toner, and third printout means in which in a case where the gloss effect is selected by the first selecting means and the print speed is prioritized, by the second selecting means, the toner of the four colors of the cyan, magenta, yellow and black and the transparent toner is used to perform, the printing on a plain paper for obtaining the printout document by printing the image, and the printing is completed with one-time fixing. 
         [0008]    According to the following explanation. In the present invention, a user can select the prim effect more easily as compared to the conventional technology. Further, the present invention can automatically set a process performed in an image forming device required for realizing the print effect. 
         [0009]    Hereinafter, transparent toner is used as the specific toner, but besides, there may be used a specific printing agent having a feature of adding a transparent image, such as transparent ink which can produce the similar effect. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0010]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram showing an image processing system, according to the present invention; 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  is a block diagram showing an image forming device according to the present invention; 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  is a flow chart in regard to an image process for a one-pass print-out process using transparent toner; 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  is a diagram showing an adhesion method of toner at a tow-pass prim-out process; 
           [0014]      FIG. 5  is a flow chart in regard to an image process for the two-pass print-pout process using transparent toner; 
           [0015]      FIG. 6  is a diagram showing an adhesion, method of toner at the tow-path print-out process; 
           [0016]      FIG. 7  is a diagram showing an example of transparent form image data; 
           [0017]      FIG. 8  is a diagram showing an example displayed on an UI screen; 
           [0018]      FIG. 9  is a block diagram showing the configuration of a data processing device; 
           [0019]      FIG. 10  is a block diagram showing the configuration of a PDL processing unit; 
           [0020]      FIG. 11  is a block diagram showing the configuration of a transparent form, image processing unit; 
           [0021]      FIG. 12  is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image processing unit; 
           [0022]      FIG. 13  is a flow chart showing an outline of the present invention; 
           [0023]      FIG. 14  is a flow chart showing an outline of the present invention; 
           [0024]      FIG. 15  is a flow chart showing en outline of the present invention; 
           [0025]      FIG. 16  is a diagram showing a cross section after forming an image at the two-path print-out process; 
           [0026]      FIG. 17  is a flow chart showing an outline, of the present invention; 
           [0027]      FIG. 18  is a block diagram showing the configuration of a local PC; 
           [0028]      FIG. 19  is a diagram showing an example displayed on the UI screen; 
           [0029]      FIG. 20  is a block diagram showing the configuration of transparent form image data; 
           [0030]      FIG. 21  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the data processing device; 
           [0031]      FIG. 22  is a flow chart showing an outline of the present invention; 
           [0032]      FIG. 23  is a flow chart showing an outline of the present invention; 
           [0033]      FIG. 24  is a block diagram showing the configuration of a transparent form overlap determining unit; 
           [0034]      FIG. 25  is a diagram showing an example displayed on the UI screen; 
           [0035]      FIG. 26  is a diagram showing an example displayed on the UI screen; 
           [0036]      FIG. 2.7  is a diagram showing an example displayed on the UI screen; 
           [0037]      FIG. 28  is a block diagram showing the configuration, of the data processing device; 
           [0038]      FIG. 29  is a flow chart showing an outline of the present invention; and 
           [0039]      FIG. 30  is a diagram showing a cross section, after forming an image at the one-path, print-out process. 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiment 1 
       [0040]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram showing an image forming device according to the present 
         [0041]    invention. 
         [0042]    Multi function complex machines (hereinafter, referred to as MFP)  101  and  103  as printing devices and a local PC  102  are connected to LAN  104  built in an office  10 . Each MFP  101  and  103  performs an image process to an input image react from an original image. Further, MFP which has read the original image prints out the result of the image process. 
         [0043]    In addition, after performing the image process to the original, image read by MFP  101 , MFP  103  may print out the result of the image process. Further, a page description language (hereinafter, referred to as PDL) transmitted from the Local PC  102  is interpreted, which may be printed out by MFP  101  or  103 . MFP  105  is connected to a different LAN. 
         [0044]    &lt;MFP&gt; 
         [0045]      FIG. 2  is a diagram showing. MFP. In  FIG. 2 , an image scanner (image reading unit)  201  reads an original image and performs a digital signal process. A printer unit  202  prints out an image corresponding to the original image read by the image scanner  201  on a paper in full color. 
         [0046]    The image scanner  201  includes a mirror surface pressure plate  200  and an original  204  on an original base glass (hereinafter, referred, to as platen)  203  is radiated by a lamp  205 , which is introduced to mirrors  206 ,  207 , and  208 . In addition, the radiated light builds up a picture, on a solid-state image sensor (hereinafter, referred to as CCD)  210  with three lines by a lens  209 , and three image signals of red (R), green (G) and blue (B) as full color information are transmitted to a data processing device  211 . The lamp  205  mechanically moves in a direction vertical to an electrical scan direction (main scarf) of a line sensor at a speed of v and the mirrors  207  and  208  mechanically moves in the same way at a speed of ½ v to scan (sub scan) an entire surface of the original. Here, the original  204  is read in both the main scan and the sub scan, for example, with resolution of 600 dpi (dots/inch). The read image signals are accumulated in data accumulating means (not shown) inside me data processing device  211  in a unit of one page of the original. 
         [0047]    In the data processing device  211 , the image signals accumulated therein are electrically processed in a pixel unit to he decomposed into respective components of magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y) and black (Bk), which will he transmitted to the printer unit  202 . In addition, inside the data processing device  211 , transparent image data. (CL) are generated in a pixel unit, which are likewise transmitted to the printer unit  202 . 
         [0048]    The transmitted image signals of M, C, Y, Bk and CL are transmitted to a laser driver  212 . The laser driver  212  modulates a semiconductor I laser  213  in accordance with the transmitted image signal. The laser r ay scans through a polygon, mirror  214 , an f-θ lens  215  and a mirror  21   6  on a photosensitive drum  217 . Here, both- the main scan and the sub scan in the same way as the reading are written in with resolution of 600 dpi (dots/inch). 
         [0049]    A rotational developing device  218  includes a magenta developing unit  219 , a cyan developing unit  220 , a yellow developing unit  221 , a black developing unit  222  and a clear (transparent) developing unit  223 . The five developing units  219  to  223  alternately contact the photosensitive drum  217  to develop an electrostatic development formed on the photosensitive drum  217  by toner of each color. 
         [0050]    A transcriptional drum  224  winds a paper fed from a paper cassette  225  or a paper cassette  226  around the transcriptional drum  224  to transcribe an image developed on the photosensitive drum on the paper. 
         [0051]    In this way, after the five colors of CMYBk and clear (transparent) are sequentially transcribed, the paper passes a fixing unit  227  and the toner is fixed on the paper, which thereafter, is discharged. 
         [0052]    Further, the paper may be once more subject to the above process without being discharged to he once more printed out, and then may be discharged. An example of the method of once more printing out without being discharged includes a method where in a reverse path used at double-sided printing out, a paper is once more set to a paper feeding step without being reversed. 
         [0053]    &lt;Local PC&gt; 
         [0054]      FIG. 18  is a diagram showing the configuration of the local PC  102 . 
         [0055]    Data produced by an application  1801  are explained as an example (hereinafter, referred to as application data). In a case where image data are stored in a memory device inside MFP or printed out by a user, a printer driver UI (user interlace) unit  1802  instructed transmits the instruction to a printer driver  1803 . The printer driver  1803  converts the application data into PDF data. PDL language need in PDL data indicates, for example, LIPS or PS. A transmitting unit  1804  transmits the produced PDL data to-MFP  101 . &lt;Data Processing Device  211 &gt; 
         [0056]      FIG. 9  is a diagram showing the configuration of the data processing device  211  mounted in MFP and the data processing device  211  is configured of a PDL processing unit  901 , a UI unit  902 , a printout condition determining unit  903 , an image processing unit  904 , a memory device  905 , a printout controlling unit  906  and a transparent form image processing unit  907 . The data processing, device and respective units included therein are operated by performing programs stored in the memory device  905  with CPU (not shown). 
         [0057]      FIG. 10  is a diagram showing the configuration of the PDL processing unit  901  in  FIG. 9 , which is configured of a receiving unit  1001 , a PDL analyzing unit  1002 , an intermediate language developing unit  1003 , a print effect information producing unit  1004 , a compression processing unit  1005  and a transmitting unit  1006 . 
         [0058]      FIG. 11  is a diagram showing the configuration of the transparent form image processing unit  907  in FIG,  9 , which is configured of an decoding unit  1101 , a gray scale processing unit  1102 , a binarization processing unit  1103  and a transmitting unit  1104 . 
         [0059]      FIG. 12  is a diagram showing the configuration of the image processing unit  904  in  FIG. 9 , which is configured of an decoding unit  1201 , a transparent form receiving unit  1202 , a color processing unit  1203 , a transparent toner processing, unit  1204 , an image forming processing unit  1205  and a transmitting unit  1206 . 
         [0060]    &lt;One-Path Print-Out Process&gt; 
         [0061]      FIG. 3  is a diagram showing a flow chart in regard to an image process and a one-path print-out process performed by the data processing device  211 . The procedure shown in this flowchart is stored in the memory device  905  in the data processing device  211  and is carried out by CPU (not shown). 
         [0062]    In the color process at step S 301 , R, G and B signals from the local PC  102  or MPP  101  and  103  are converted into CMYBk signals at the color processing unit  1203  by the image processing unit  904 . The conversion into the CMYBk signal is carried out by a matrix calculation as shown in Expression (1). 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               
                 
                   
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         [0063]    In addition, the local PC  102  may transmit the CMYBk signals, but in this case, the color processing unit  1203  performs the concentration adjustment or the like at step S 301 . 
         [0064]    Next, at step S 302  the color processing unit  1203  calculates transparent toner components from the CMYBk signals at the transparent toner processing unit  1204 . First, a total toner amount of CMYBk is found for each pixel. Here, the total toner amount is a toner amount transcribed on a paper for each pixel by a sum of signal quantities found by combining four colors of CMYBk. The total toner amount is usually expressed as a percentage value of which the single color maximum value is 100%. In a case where the image signal is expressed in the integer number of 8 bits, since the single color maximum value is 255, the total toner amount is determined by multiplying an additional value of CMYBk by 100/255. 
         [0065]    For example, assuming that an image signal of 8 bits has a relation of C=80, M=90, Y=140 and Bk=110 in regard to some pixel. 
         [0000]      Total toner amount=(C÷M÷Y÷Bk)×100/255=167%   (2)
 
         [0066]    A general upper limit value of the total toner amount is usually in the order of 200 to 280% and is determined by an image producing process, but in the present embodiment, a total amount after further forming a transparent toner layer is required to be equal to or less than the upper limit value. 
         [0067]    Hero, assuming that the upper limit value of the total toner amount is 240%, a difference between the numeral value in Expression (2) and the upper limit value may be considered as a concentration rate allowable in the transparent toner layer, wherein 
         [0000]      Allowable amount=240−167=73%,   (3)
 
         [0068]    When the amount of CMYBk and CL (transparent toner) is determined, at step S 303  the image processing unit  904  performs a -gamma correction process set by MFP  101  for each color at the image forming processing unit  1205 . 
         [0069]    At step S 304 , the image forming processing unit  1205  performs an image funning process for each color. The image forming processing includes a screen process or an error diffusion process. 
         [0070]    Finally at step S 305  MFP  101  uses tire toner of CMYBk and CL to print out an image.  FIG. 4  shows the outline diagram. 
         [0071]    That is, a one-path print-out process means a printout method in which the transparent toner amount is calculated from the total toner amount of the four colors of cyan, magenta, yellow and black, and the printing and fixing are performed one time, thus using a regular printout (first printout) function completing the printout by one process. 
         [0072]    The printout method explained above is called “one-path print-out”. 
         [0073]    &lt;Two-Path Print-Out Process&gt; 
         [0074]      FIG. 5  is a flow chart in regard to an image process and a two-path print-out process performed by the data processing device  211 . 
         [0075]    The procedure shown in this flow chart is stored in the memory device  905  in the data processing device  211  and is performed by CPU (not shown). 
         [0076]    At step S 501  die image processing unit  904  determines whether input image signals from the local PC  102  or the MFP  101  and  103  are R G, and B signals or CMYBk signals at the color processing unit  1203 . In a case where as a result of the determination, the input image signal is the CMYBk signal, at step S 302  the image processing unit  904  converts the CMYBk signal into the R, G and B signal at the color processing unit  1203 . The method of the conversion is carried out by the matrix calculation as shown in. Expression (4). 
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         [0077]    Next, at step  8503  the color processing unit  1203  replaces the R, G and B signals for one signal of a single color. The method of the conversion is carried out using a calculating expression or the like and the calculating expression is not uniform. The CMYBk signals are converted into the R, G and B signals, which then are replaced by the one signal of the single color, but it is possible to directly replace the CMYBk signals for the one signal of the single color using the well known method. In addition, at step S 504  the image processing unit  904  performs a gamma correction process for transparent toner set by the MFP  101  to the signal converted into one signal at the image forming processing unit  1205 . Further, at step S 505  the image forming processing unit  1205  performs the image forming process. At step S 506  MFP  101  prints out an image using toner of CL. The schematic diagram is shown in  FIG. 6 . MFP  101  first prints cyan  601 , magenta  602 , yellow  603  and black  604  in that order and performs the printout. Next, a printout document by the CMYBk is set to a paper feeding step of MFP  101 . A transparency  005  is printed and printed out on the set printout document. 
         [0078]    That is, the two-path print-out process is a printout method using a two-path print-out (second printout) function in which four colors of cyan, magenta, yellow and black (C, M, Y and Bk) are fixed once, and thereafter, transparent toner is printed thereon, thus completing the printout with two processes. Here., a feature of tire two-path print-out process by a case compared with the one-path print-out process will be explained. Using the two-path print-out process, a total time required for the printout incrcases without mentioning. However, in a case of using the one-path print-out process, since a print amount of the transparent toner is a difference amount found by subtracting the CMYBk amount from the upper limit value- of the total toner amount, an amount for printing the transparent toner may be zero according to the calculation. For example, this is a case -where a total toner amount of CMYBk exceeds a total toner amount allowed by a printout device. In this case, even if a user intends to print the transparent toner, a visual effect by the transparent toner can not be obtained. 
         [0079]    However, in a case of using the two-path print-out process, after the CMYBk toner is fixed, the transparent toner is printed and fixed. In this case, the transparent toner can be printed in an adhesion amount of 100% as the maximum value of a single color. As a result, since the toner adhesion amount is not restricted in the two-path print-out process, the transparent toner of the instructed adhesion amount can he printed to restrict reduction of the visual effect. 
         [0080]    The printout method explained above is called “two-path print-out” hereinafter. 
         [0081]    &lt;Print Effect by Transparent Toner&gt; 
         [0082]      FIG. 30  is a diagram showing a surface of transparent toner at the time of usually printing out. 
         [0083]      FIG. 16  is a diagram showing a surface of transparent toner at a two-path print-out process. 
         [0084]    The print effect (gloss or matte) depends on a difference in surface properties between a paper and transparent toner and a difference in surface properties between transparent toner and toner already printed. First, m regard to a paper, there is a difference in surface between a coated paper  3001  and a non-coated paper  3002  as a plain paper in  FIG. 30 . Since a surface  3003  of the coated paper  3001  is coated, it has no concavity and convexity. On the other hand, a surface  3004  of the non-coated paper  3002  has concavity and convexity due to-an influence of paper fabric. In a case of performing a one-pat print-out process using the transparent toner on the paper, even if surfaces  3005  and  3006  of the paper to which the transparent toner adheres pass through the fixing unit  227  of MFP  101 , more or less concavity and convexity remain thereon. In a case of performing the one-path print-out process using the transparent toner on the coated paper  3001 , since the surface  3003  of the coated paper  3001  has no concavity and convexity and the surface  3005  of the transparent toner has concavity and convexity, a matte effect occurs on the printed location (that is, the surface  3005  of the transparent toner). On the other hand, in a case of performing the one-path print-out process using the transparent toner on the non-coated paper  3002 , both the surfaces of the paper and the transparent toner have concavity and-convexity. However, in general, since the concavity and convexity on the surface of the non-coated paper  3002  are larger that those on the surface  3006  of the transparent toner, a gloss effect occurs on the printed location (that is, the surface  3006  of-the transparent toner). 
         [0085]    Next, in a case of performing a two-path print-out process, in regard to a printout document  1601  by four colors of CMYBk in  FIG. 16 , more or less concavity and convexity remain, on a surface  1602  of the toner in the same way as at the one-path prim-out process. At the time of printing the transparent toner on a part of the surface of the printout document  1601 , more or less concavity and convexity remain on a surface  1603  on which the transparent toner is printed. In contrast, since a surface  1604  on which, four colors of CMYBk are printed passes through the fixing unit  227  twice, the concavity and convexity on the surface  1602  are made smooth as the surface  1604 . Therefore, in a case of the two-path print-out process, when the transparent toner is printed on a location on which the toner of CMYBk is already printed (that is, surface  1603  of the toner). Use matte effect occurs. 
         [0086]    &lt;Transparent Form Image Data&gt; 
         [0087]      FIG. 7  shows an example of transparent form image data.  FIG. 8  shows an example of an image shown on the local PC screen. 
         [0088]    Transparent form image data  701  are stored in binary image data, and a location  702  of a logical value “1” shows a position subject to a visual effect generated at the time of using the transparent toner. Bottoms  801  and  802  instruct to a print effect information producing unit  1004  of the PDL processing unit  901  which effect a user desires in the location  702  of the logical value “1” in the form image  701  shown in a preview  803 . 
         [0089]    &lt;Transparent Form Image Registration&gt; 
         [0090]    In regard to compression and decode described in the present specification, a well known technology as JPEG is to be used. 
         [0091]    The image processing unit  904  uses transparent form image data at the time of printing transparent toner at the transparent toner processing unit  1204 . The memory device  905  registers an image showing a location for creating the effect by the transparent toner as transparent form image data. 
         [0092]    When the local PC  102  instructs the transparent form image registration from the driver UI screen (not shown), the PDL processing unit  901  receives PDL data transmitted from the local PC  102 , at the receiving unit  1001 . In addition, the image data received for being registered as the transparent form image data are not only data received from the local PC  102 , but also may be based on image data obtained from an image scanned by the image scanner  201  of MFP. 
         [0093]    An operation flow of the PDL processing unit  901  will be explained with reference to  FIG. 13 . 
         [0094]    At step S 1301 , the PDL analyzing unit  1002  analyses the PDL data to generate intermediate data. In a case of registering a transparent form image at step S 1302 , step S 1303  is skipped, and at step S 1304 , the intermediate language developing unit  1003  performs rendering to the intermediate data to generate image data. At step S 1305 , the compression processing unit  1005  compresses the image data to generate compression data. At step S 1306 , the transmitting unit  1006  transmits the compression data toward the decoding unit  1101  in the transparent form image processing unit  907 . 
         [0095]    Next, an operation flow of the transparent form image processing unit  907  will be explained with reference to  FIG. 14 , 
         [0096]    First, at step S 1401 , the decoding unit  1101  decodes the received compression data. At step S 1402 , the gray scale processing unit  1102  converts fee decoded image data into data of the gray scale. An example of the conversion method includes a case where in a case of being input in RGB, the data are converted into YUV signals, and only the Y signal is used as a gray scale signal, but is not limited thereto. At step S 1403 , the binarization processing unit  1103  converts the image signal converted into the gray-scale into binary image data. An example of the conversion method includes a method in which a threshold value is set, and when, a gray scale signal value is larger that the threshold value, the data is “1” and when the gray scale signal value is smaller that the threshold value, the data is “0”, thus generating the binary image data. At step S 1404 , the transmitting unit  1103  transmits the binary image data to the memory device  905 . 
         [0097]    The memory device  905  receives the binary image data, which is stored as the transparent form image data therein. 
         [0098]    &lt;Printing Using Transparent Toner&gt; 
         [0099]    The transparent form image data stored in the memory device  905  are used to realize the printing using transparent toner. 
         [0100]    When the printer driver  1803  on the local PC  102  instructs the printing using the transparent form image data, the printer driver UI unit  1802 -displays  FIG. 8  on the screen. First, the primer driver UI unit  1802  selects the transparent form image data to be used at printing out from many stored transparent form image data at a selection area  804 . Then, the printer driver UI unit  1802  displays the preview  803  on the sore en making it possible to confirm the binarized transparent form image data. The printer driver UI unit  1802  determines hie print effect to a portion (location of logical value “1” in the binary image data) displayed on the preview  803 . The printer driver UI unit  1802  transmits to the printer driver  1803  an instruction from the button  801  in a case of producing a matte effect and an instruction from the button  802  in a case of producing a gloss effect, according to an instruction of a button  805 . Finally the transmitting unit  1804  transmits the PDL data generated, in the printer driver  1803 . An instruction of a button  806  instructs cancellation. 
         [0101]    With the instruction from the button  80 S, the receiving unit  1001  in the PDL processing unit  901  receives PDL data from the local PC  102 . The process flow in the PDL processing unit  901  is almost the same as at the time of registering the transparent form image. With the difference amount, at step S 1303 , the PDL analysing unit  1002  analyses whether die PDL data require the matte effect or the gloss effect to produce the print effect information. At step S 1306 , the transmitting unit  1000  transmits the print effect information to the printout, condition determining unit  903 . At step S 1304 , the transmitting unit  1006  transmits the compressed image data to the image processing unit  904 . 
         [0102]    An operation flow of the printout condition determining unit  903  will be explained with reference to  FIG. 15 . 
         [0103]    At step S 1501 , the printout condition determining unit  903  determines whether the print effect information is tire matte effect or the gloss effect, in a case where the matte effect is selected, the process goes to step S 1505 . That is, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines to adopt a one-path print-out process as the printing method and use a coated, paper as the paper type. In addition, the determination information is generated based upon this result. Then die process goes to step S 1506 , wherein the determination, information is transmitted to the image processing unit  904 . Next, in a case where the gloss effect is selected, the process goes to step S 1502 . That is, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines whether selection of the priority matter in advance set at MFP  101  is print quality priority or print speed priority. 
         [0104]    In a case where the print speed priority is selected, first the one-path print-out process is prioritized rather than the two-path print-out process requiring more printing process time. In most cases, a coated paper requires more time for transportation as compared to a non-coated paper. Based upon these matters, in a case where the print speed is prioritized, the process goes to step S 1503 , wherein the printout condition determining unit  903  determines to adopt the one-path printout process as the printing method and use the non-coated paper as the paper type. In addition, the determination information is generated based upon this result. Then the process goes to step S 1506 , wherein the determination information is transmitted to the image processing unit  904 . 
         [0105]    Finally in a case where the print quality priority is selected, first, there is adopted the two-path print-out process in which a transparent toner amount is not limited by an adhesion amount of toner as compared to the one-path print-out process. As described above, an amount of the transparent toner required for producing the gloss effect may not adhere due to the toner adhesion amount limit. In this case, regardless of aiming at the gloss effect, the visual effect is reduced due to the toner adhesion amount limit. Therefore, when the two-path print-out process which is not subject to the limit by the toner adhesion amount is adopted, the reduction of the gloss effect can be avoided. Further, the coated paper can more effectively produce a glossy feeling to a portion requiring the gloss effect. 
         [0106]    Therefore, at step S 1504 , the printout condition determining unit  903  determines to adopt the two-path print-out process as the printing method, use the coated paper as the paper type and reverse the transparent form image data. In addition, the determination information is generated based upon this result. Then the process goes to step S 1506 , wherein the determination information is transmitted to the image processing unit  904 . 
         [0107]    An operation flow of the image processing unit  904  will be explained with reference to  FIG. 17 . 
         [0108]    The image processing unit  904 , at step S 1701  decodes the image data received from the decoding unit  1201 . At step S 1702 , the image processing unit  904  determines whether the printing method is the one-path print-out process or the two-path print-out process from the determination information. When, it is determined that the printing method is the one-path print-out process, at step S 1703  the transparent form receiving unit  1202  receives transparent form image data from the memory device  905 . Further, when the binary image data in the transparent form image data are required to be reversed from tire determination information, the reversing work is also performed. At step S 1704 , in a case where the image data are composed of RGB image data, the color processing unit  1203  converts the RGB image data into CMYBk image data to adjust the concentration by a calculating process or the like. In a case of tire CMYBk image data, the concentration is adjusted by the calculating process or the like. At step S 1705 , the transparent toner processing unit  1204  performs the one-path print-out process to a location of a logical value “1” in tire transparent form image data, that is, the binary image data to determine a transparent toner amount. On the other hand, any print-out process is performed in a location of the logical, value “0” in the binary image data to generate image data including a transparent toner plate. At step S 1706 , the image forming processing unit  1205  performs a gamma correction process set in MFP  101  to each plate (CMYBk and transparency) to perform an image forming process. The method of the image forming process is performed by a screen or error diffusion. At step S 1707 , the transmitting unit  1206  transmits the image data after the image forming process to the print control unit  906 . 
         [0109]    At step S 1702 , in a case where it is determined that the printing method is the two-path print-out process, at step S 1708  the color processing unit  1203  performs a color process to the image data. At step S 1709 , the image forming processing unit  1205  performs the gamma correction process set in. MFP to each plate (CMYBk) to perform the image forming process. At step S 1710 , the transmitting unit  1206  transmits the image data after the image forming data process to the print control unit  906 . The print control unit  906  first prints out the image data formed with CMYBk by the determination information. When the printing is completed, the paper is not discharged to the paper discharging mechanism in MFP  101 , and at step S 1711  MFP  101  automatically sets the paper to the paper feeding step one more. As the method of automatically setting the paper to the paper feeding step, for example, in a reverse path using at double-faced printing, the paper is again set to the paper feeding step without being reversed. Alternatively, alter the printing is completed, the paper is discharged to the paper discharging mechanism in MFP  101  and a display prompting a user to once more set the discharged print paper to the paper feeding step through the UI unit  902  may be made. At step S 1712  the transparent form receiving unit  1202  receives the transparent form image data from the memory device  905 . Further, when the binary image data in the transparent form image data are required to he reversed from the determination information, the reversing work is also performed. At step S 1713 , the image forming processing unit  1205  performs the gamma correction process for transparent toner set in MFP to the transparent form image data to perform the image forming process for transparent toner. At step S 1714 , the transmitting unit  1206  transmits the image data after the image forming process by the transparent toner to the print control unit  906 . 
         [0110]    The print control unit  006  selects the paper type according to the determination information for the printing out. 
         [0111]    According to Embodiment 1, for realizing the effect instructed by a user to the printing portion using the transparent toner, the printing method can be automatically selected, in addition, at the printing, the information on whether the print quality or the print speed is prioritised is in advance set in MFP, and the process can he automatically performed based upon this information. 
       Embodiment 2 
       [0112]    Embodiment 1 has the feature that at the printing, the information on whether the print quality or the print speed is prioritized is in advance set in MFP, and the printing method can be automatically performed based upon, this information. Embodiment 2 has the feature of making a user select the print quality priority or the print speed priority. 
         [0113]      FIG. 19  shows art example of a screen displayed on the local PC screen. 
         [0114]    In step S 1502  in  FIG. 15 , the printer driver UI unit  1802  displays  FIG. 10  on the screen of the local PC  102 . At that time, the printer driver UI unit  1802  displays selectable priority matters and a print setting in each case on a button. A button  1901  performs an instruction of the print speed priority. In this case the process goes to step S 1503 . In addition, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines to adopt a one-path print-out process as the printing method and use a non-coated paper as the paper type. In addition, the determination information is generated based upon this result. Then the process goes to step S 1506 , wherein the determination information is transmitted to the image processing unit  904 . On the other hand, a button  1902  performs an instruction of the print quality priority. In this case Ore process goes to step S 1304 . In addition, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines to adopt a two-path print-out process as the printing method, use a coated paper as the paper type and reverse transparent form image data. In addition, the determination information is generated based upon this result. Then the process goes to step S 1506 , wherein tire determination information is transmitted to the image processing unit  904 . 
         [0115]    In Embodiment 2, as described above. In addition to Embodiment 1, a user can select the priority matter, and further, can know a detail of the set matter. 
       Embodiment 3 
       [0116]    In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the transparent toner is assumed to be printed in the same shape as the image data. On the other hand, Embodiment 3 has the feature that for printing the transparent toner in a shape different from that of the image data, the image data and the transparent form image data (binary image data) are compared, and the determination information is produced based upon an overlap degree thereof. 
         [0117]      FIG. 20  is a diagram showing a combination of the image data and the transparent form image data. 
         [0118]      FIG. 21  is a diagram showing the configuration of the data processing unit  211  mounted in MFP and is configured of a transparent form overlap determining unit  2101 . The transparent form image data assumed at the time of printing transparent toner on image data  2001  are classified into the following three data. Data  701  in conformity with the image data  2001 , data  2002  which mostly overlap with the image data  2001  and data  2003  which do not overlap with the image data  2001  at all can be assumed. 
         [0119]    When the printer driver UI unit  1802  instructs the printing rising the transparent form image data, the printer driver UI unit  1802  displays  FIG. 8  on the local PC  102 . The printer driver UI unit  1802  selects the transparent form image data used at printing from many stored transparent form image data at the selection area  804 . Next, an instruction is made on selection of the button  802  and the button  803 , and finally according to an instruction of a button  805 , the printer driver  1803  produces PDL data, which are transmitted to the transmitting unit  1804 . After the PDL processing unit  901  processes the generated PDL data, the generated image data  2001  are transmitted to the transparent form overlap determining unit  2101 . Further, foe memory device  905  transmits the selected transparent form image data to the transparent form overlap determining unit  2101 . 
         [0120]      FIG. 24  is a block, diagram showing the configuration of the transparent form overlap determining unit  2101 . An operation flow of the transparent, form overlap determining unit  2101  will be explained with reference to  FIG. 22 . 
         [0121]    At step S 2201 , the transparent form image data and the image data are received. A count unit  2402  counts the pixel number of pixels in the logical value “1” in the transparent form image data received at the transparent form receiving unit  2403 . At step S 2202 , the transparent form overlap determining unit  2101  counts the pixel number having the color value of the image data, decoded at the decoding unit  2401  by the count unit  2402 . At step S 2203  a count comparing unit  2404  compares the pixel number of pixels of the logical value “1” counted previously with the pixel number having the color value in the decoded image data. In a case where the results of the comparison are equal, at step S 2207  the count comparing rant  2404  determines that tire overlap information is equal. In a case where the results of the comparison are not equal, the count comparing unit  2204  compares how much pixels having the color value in the image data have at a position of the pixel in the logical value “1” in the transparent form image data at the count comparing unit  2404 . In a case of almost no overlap with the image data.  2001  as the transparent form image data  2003 , at step S 2205  the count comparing unit  2404  determines that the overlap information is “a little”. In a case where many portions overlapping with the image data  2001  as the transparent form image data  2002  exist, at step S 2206  the count comparing unit  2404  determines that the overlap information is “a lot”. At step S 2208  the information generated in this way is transmitted to the printout condition determining unit  903  by the transmitting unit  2405 . 
         [0122]    An operation flow of the printout condition determining unit  903  in the present embodiment will be explained with reference to  FIG. 23 . 
         [0123]    At step S 1501 , the printout condition determining unit  903  determines whether the print effect information is the matte effect or the gloss effect. In a case where the gloss effect is selected, the process goes to step S 1502  in the same way as Embodiment 1. In a case where the matte effect is selected, the process goes to step S 2301 . In addition, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines the received overlap information. In a case where the overlap information is “equal”, the process goes to step S 1505  in the same way as Embodiment 1. 
         [0124]    In a case where the overlap information is “a lot”, the process goes to step S 2302 , wherein the printout condition determining unit  903  determines the print quality priority or the print speed priority. In a case where it is determined that the print speed priority is selected, the one-path print-out process is, as described above, adopted with priority rather than the two-path, print-out process. In consequence, the one-path print-out process is adopted as the printing method. In addition, it is preferable that a non-coated paper is used as the paper type from a viewpoint of the print speed. However, when the non-coated paper is used in a case where the overlap information is “equal” or “a lot”, a defective occurs in printing. For example, for obtaining the effect of “matte” using the non-coated paper, the transparent form is reversed for printing. 
         [0125]    In this case, the transparent toner is added to a portion on the non-coated paper with no image data (or a few image data). On the other hand, toner of CMYBk is added to the image data portion. When the CMYBk toner is larger in toner adhesion amount than the transparent toner in the portions where the two kinds of toner are added, the image portion as the portion where the CMYBk toner is added creates rather a glossy feeling. That is, the image portion for desiring to obtain the effect of “matte” creates rather a glossy feeling. Such a defective occurs. 
         [0126]    Therefore, the coated paper is determined to be used in a case where the overlap information is “equal” or “a lot” so that in any case, the defective does not occur. The determination information is generated based upon this result. In a case where it is determined that the print quality priority is selected, the two-path print-out process in which a toner adhesion amount, is not limited is adopted as the printing method. Further, the coated paper in which the visual effect more remarkably appears is used ad the paper type. In a case where the overlap information is “a little” at step S 2301 , at step S 2305  the printout condition determining unit  903  determines the print quality priority or the prim speed priority. In a case where it is determined that the print speed priority is selected, the printout condition determining unit  903  adopts the one-path print-out process as the printing method. In a case where the overlap information is “a little”, since the defective as shown above does not occur, the non-coated paper of which transportation is faster than the coated paper is determined to be used as the paper type. The determination information is generated based upon this result. In a case where it is determined that the print quality priority is selected, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines to adopt the two-path print-out process as the printing method, use the coated paper as the paper type and reverse the transparent form image data. The determination information is generated based open this result. At step S 2308 , the determination information is transmitted to the image processing unit  904  and the print control unit  906 . 
         [0127]    In Embodiment 3 as described above, in addition of Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, it is possible to more accurately set the printout condition based upon an overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form, image data. It should be noted that if the instructed effect, or priority can be reainsed, the printing method may be selected in consideration of an adhesion amount of toner, surface properties of a paper and transparent toner, and a difference component in surface properties between the transparent toner and the toner already printed. 
       Embodiment 4 
       [0128]    In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 3, the determination information is automatically produced based upon the effect desired by a user and the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data. On the other hand, Embodiment 4 has the feature of automatically determining a control method in a case where a finisher in which a mechanism (hereinafter, referred to as glosser) for enhancing gloss is built is mounted in MFP  101 . 
         [0129]    The glosser (not shown) is a device in which heat is once more added to the toner once fixed at MFP  101  to melt the surface for the re-fixing. A printout document which has passed the glosser can realise high gloss. That, is, even if the printing is performed at MFP  101  based upon the determination condition set in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 3 by a user&#39;s desire to the matte effect, when the finisher built-in glosser is mounted, it is impossible in realise the matte effect. 
         [0130]    Therefore, in Embodiment 4, in a case where the finisher built-in glosser is mounted in MFP  101  and the matte effect is selected, the printout condition determining unit  903  adds to the determination information the printout to a paper discharging opening different from the finisher built-in glosser. The image processing unit  904  and die print, control unit  906  receive the determination information. 
         [0131]    In Embodiment 4 as described above, in addition of Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 3, even if the finisher built-in glosser is mounted in. MFP, it is possible to realise the effect desired by a user. 
       Embodiment 5 
       [0132]    In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 3, the determination information is automatically produced based upon the effect desired by a user and the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data. On the other hand. Embodiment 5 has the feature of making a user select the effect that a user can print, based upon only the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data. 
         [0133]      FIG. 25  shows an example of a semen displayed on the local PC screen. 
         [0134]    When the printer driver UI unit  1802  instructs the print using the transparent form image data, the printer driver lit unit  1802  displays  FIG. 8  on the local PC  102 . The printer driver  151  unit  1802  selects transparent form image data used at printing from many stored transparent form image data at the selection area  804 . Then, the printer driver lit unit  1502  displays the preview  803  on the screen of the local PC  102 , thereby making it possible to confirm the binaray transparent form image data. Finally according to an instruction of the button  805 , the printer driver  1803  prod noes PDL data, which are transmitted to the transmitting unit  1804 . 
         [0135]    The printout condition determining unit  903  generates the determination information only by determining the priority matter in advance set at MFP  101 . The generated determination information is displayed on the local PC screen in  FIG. 25 , and a user can select the print effect. For example, a button  2501  instructs the printout with a matte effect, and the setting at that time also displays that the printing method is a one-path print-out process and the paper is a coated paper. In addition, a button  2502  instructs the printing with a gloss effect, and also displays that the printing method is the one-path print-out process, the paper is the coated, paper and the transparent form image data are reversed. According to the instruction of either of the buttons, the image processing unit  904  and the print control unit  906  receive the determination information. 
         [0136]    In Embodiment 5 as described above, since the effect accomplished by printing is displayed, the print effect can be simply realised only by a user&#39;s selection without paying attention to the print effect particularly. 
       Embodiment 6 
       [0137]    In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 3, the determination information is automatically produced based upon the effect desired by a user and the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data. On foe other hand, Embodiment 6 has the feature of displaying to a user a measurement method when the limit to the paper typo occurs. 
         [0138]    A printing operation is started based upon the determination information automatically produced from die effect desired by a user and the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data, but although the paper type of the determination information is the coated paper, the coated paper may not be mounted. On that occasion, the printer driver  01  unit  1802  displays a screen of informing a user of mounting the coated paper on tire screen of the local PC  102 . Alternatively, the printer driver UI unit  1802  displays a screen of providing a user with a warning that the mounted paper type is used as an alternative but the print effect, may not live up to the users expectations, on the screen of the local. PC  102  (not shown). 
         [0139]    In addition, in a case where the paper type which a user desires to print is mounted, the printout condition determining unit  903  determines whether or not a desired (given) print effect can be produced with the paper type. In a case where the desired, print effect can not be produced, the printer driver UI unit  1802  displays a warning screen that the print effect may not live up to the expectations, on the screen of the local PC  102  (not shown). 
         [0140]    In Embodiment 6 as described above, it is possible to prompt a user to perform a measurement in a case where the paper type with which the desired effect can be obtained is not mounted. 
       Embodiment 7 
       [0141]    In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 3, the determination information is automatically produced based upon the effect desired by a user and the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data. On the other hand, Embodiment 7 has the feature of automatically producing the determination information in a case where transparent toner is used to a printout document already printed to realize the print effect. In this case, a transparent image having a configuration corresponding to that of the printout document already printed is added to the printout document. 
         [0142]      FIG. 26  and  FIG. 27  are diagrams each showing an example displayed on the screen of the  111  unit  902  in MFP  101 . 
         [0143]      FIG. 28  is a diagram showing the configuration of Ore data, processing device  211  mounted in MFP  101  and is configured of a scan image processing unit  2801 . 
         [0144]    First, MFP  103  performs printing with four colors of CMYBk. At that time, MFP  103  performs a gray scale process and binarization to the generated image data, which are stored in the memory device built in MFP  103 . The paper feeding step in MFP  101  sets the printout document discharged from the MFP  103 . Then, the UI unit  902  in MFP  101  displays a screen of  FIG. 26  on a control panel (not shown) in MFP  101 . The UI unit  902  displays a list of MFP connected to LAN  104  in the same as MFP  101  to select MFP  103  which has performed the priming with four colors of CMYBk from a selection area  2601 . When the UI unit  002  selects MFF  103 , at the selection area  2002  there is selected an image corresponding to the printout document set to the paper feeding step from, the binarized images stored, in the memory device built in MFP  103 . According to an instruction of a button  2604 , the UNI unit  902  determines selection of form images and selection of print effects at MFP  101 . An instruction of a button  2605  means cancellation. The transparent form overlap determining unit  2101  receives the binarized image data from MFP  103  when the selection of the transparent form image data and the selection of the print effects at MFP  101  by the UI unit  902  are completed and the printing operation is started. The transparent form overlap determining unit  2101  makes the determination using the binarized image data and the selected transparent form image data. 
         [0145]    Nest, in a case where MFP  10 S which is not connected to LAN  104  performs four-color printing, the UI unit  902  does-not display MFP  105  on the selection area  2001 . According to an instruction of a button  2403 , the UI unit  902  displays  FIG. 27  on the control panel of the MFP  101 . An original reading device of MFP  101  sets the printout document printed in four colors and reads the printout document printed in four colors according to an instruction of a button  2701 , which is obtained as image data. The scan image processing unit  2801  performs an image process for scan (color process, base removing or the like) to the obtained image data, which are transmitted to the transparent form overlap determining unit  2101 . An instruction of a button  2702  means cancellation of the reading-in operation. 
         [0146]    The UI unit  902  in MFP  101  selects the transparent form, image data from the selection area  804  on the- screen of  FIG. 8  displayed on the control panel by the UI unit  902 , selects the print effect from the button  801  and the button  802  and starts with a printing operation according to the instruction of the button  805 . First the overlap form determining unit  2101  determines the overlap degree between the image data and the transparent form image data. 
         [0147]    After determining the overlap degree, even if the printing by four colors of CMYBk is performed by either one of MFP  103  and MFP  105 , the printout condition determining unit  903  generates the determination information. As candidates in this case, since Embodiment 7 performs the priming by the two-path print-out process, only step S 1504 , step S 2304 , and step S 2307  can be selected. 
         [0148]    An operation flow of the image processing unit  904  in the present embodiment will be explained with reference to  FIG. 29 . 
         [0149]    At step S 2901 , the transparent form receiving unit  1202  receives the selected transparent form image data from the memory device  905 . Further, in a case where the binary image data in the transparent form image data are required to be reversed from the determination information, the reverse work is also carried out. At step S 2902 , the image forming processing unit  1205  performs an image forming process to the transparent form image data. At step  82903 , the transmitting unit  1206  transmits the image data to the print control unit  906 . 
         [0150]    In Embodiment 7 as described above, in addition to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 3, it is possible to realize the print effect to the printout document already printed. 
         [0151]    In all the embodiments other than Embodiment 7, the output by PDL is described, font the present invention is not limited thereto. The same can be applied to the output by scan. In this case, after the process is performed at the image processing unit  2801  for scan, an operation similar to that of PDF is performed. The screen displayed on the screen of the local PC  102  is displayed on the screen of the control panel in MFP  101 . 
       Other Embodiments 
       [0152]    The scope of the aforementioned embodiment also includes a processing method, in which a program for operating the configuration of the above embodiment so as to realise the function of the above embodiment is stored in a recording medium, and the program stored in the recording medium is read out as a code, which is performed by a computer. 
         [0153]    Aspects of the present invention can also be realised by a computer of a system or apparatus (or devices such as a CPU or MPU) that reads out and executes a program recorded on a memory device to perform the functions of the above-described embodiment(s), and by a method, the steps of which are performed by a computer of a system or apparatus by, for example, reading out and executing a program recorded on a memory device to perform the functions of the above-described embodiments). For this purpose, the program is provided to the computer for example via a network or from a recording medium of various types serving as the memory device (e.g., computer-readable medium). 
         [0154]    The recording medium is a computer readable recording medium. In addition, not only the recording medium, in which the above program is stored but also the program itself can be included in the aforementioned embodiment. 
         [0155]    An example of such a recording medium may include a floppy (registered trademark) disc, a hard disc, an optical disc, an optical, magnetic disc, CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, an involatile memory card and ROM. 
         [0156]    The embodiment includes not only the device of performing the process with the program, unit stored in the aforementioned recording medium, but also a device which operates in operational sequence in cooperation with the other software and a function of an expansion board to perform the operation of the aforementioned embodiment. 
         [0157]    While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the technical scope of the invention is not limited to that of the disclosed embodiments. It is apparent for persons skilled in the art to be capable of adding various modifications and improvements to the embodiments. It is apparent from the description of the claims that embodiments with such modifications or improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. 
         [0158]    This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-261930, filed Oct. 8, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.