Dividing image data into a plurality of pages for favorable readability when printed

An image processing system includes: a data receiving section configured to receive data in a first format from an image processing apparatus; a convert control section configured to control a converting section to convert the data in the first format to image data in another format different from the first format; an overall-image transmitting section configured to transmit the image data to the image processing apparatus; an area-information receiving section configured to receive an area info from the image processing apparatus; a partial-image generating section configured to generate partial-image data based on the area information; and a partial-image transmitting section configured to transmit one of the partial-image data and print data generated based on the partial-image data to one of the image processing apparatus and a printing apparatus.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-146385, filed on Jun. 29, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an image processing system, an image processing apparatus, a method of image processing, and an image processing computer program.

2. Description of the Related Art

A printer server described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2002-304274 generates an image data by converting a data such as web page acquired from an information processing terminal and having no page concept. Further, the printer server calculates the number of pages to be printed from the image data and generates print data corresponding to a print-page layout which has been set in advance for the calculated number of pages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

However, since the printer server described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2002-304274 calculates automatically the number of pages to he printed, based on the image data which has been converted from the data having not page concept, there is a possibility of a page break at a position which is not intended by a user, In such a case, since a print result which is not intended by the user is achieved, readability of the print result is degraded. Whereas, in a case of page data having a page concept, page break is carried out at page separation set for each of pages. However, in a case that the page separation is at a position which is not intended by a user, since a print result which is not intended by the user is acquired, a readability of the print result is degraded.

The present invention has been made in view of the abovementioned circumstances, and an Object of the present invention is to provide an image processing system which enables to achieve a print result with a favorable readability, an image processing apparatus, a method of image processing, and an image processing computer program.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing system configured to communicate with an image processing apparatus and a printing apparatus, including: a data receiving section configured to receive data in a first format from the image processing apparatus; a convert control section configured to control a converting section to convert the data in the first format received by the data receiving section to image data in another format which is different from the first format; an overall-image transmitting section configured to transmit the image data obtained by the converting section to the image processing apparatus; an area-information receiving section configured to receive an area information from the image processing apparatus, the area information being an information for dividing one image corresponding to the image data transmitted by the overall-image transmitting section into a plurality of pages; a partial-image generating section configured to generate partial-image data corresponding to a partial image obtained. by dividing the one image for each of the pages, based on the area information received by the area-information receiving section; and a partial-image transmitting section configured to transmit one of the partial-image data and print data generated based on the partial-image data to one of the image processing apparatus and the printing apparatus.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause an image processing apparatus configured to communicate with an image processing system configured to convert data in a first format to image data in another format different from the first format and with a printing apparatus, to: transmit the data in the first format to the image processing system; receive the image data converted from the data in the first format from the image processing system; display one image corresponding to the image data on a display section of the image processing apparatus; receive designation of a dividing position at which the one image displayed on the display section is divided into a plurality of pages via an operating section of the image processing apparatus; transmit, to the image processing system, an area information which indicates an area of each of the pages obtained by dividing the one image according to the designation of the dividing position, in a case that the designation of the dividing position has been received; receive, from the image processing system, one of partial-image data corresponding to a partial image obtained by dividing the one image based on the area information transmitted to the image processing system, and print data generated based on the partial-image data; and output, to the printing apparatus, one of the partial-image data received, print data generated from the partial-image data received, and the print data received.

It is possible to arrange the present invention in various aspects such as an image processing apparatus, a control unit which controls the image processing apparatus, a method of image processing, and a recording medium in which image processing computer program is recorded.

In the image processing system according to the first aspect, when the data of first format has been received from the image processing apparatus, the convert control section controls the converting section to convert the data of first format to the image data of a format which is different from the first format, and the acquired image data is transmitted to the image processing apparatus. On the other hand, in a case that the area information for dividing one image corresponding to the transmitted image data into the plurality of pages is received, the partial-image data corresponding to the image resulted from dividing the one image (partial image) is generated for each page based on the area information, The partial-image data which has been generated or the print data which has been generated based on the partial-image data is transmitted to the image processing apparatus or the printing apparatus. Therefore, it is possible to print each of the partial images based on the partial-image data on one recording paper. According to the image processing system according to the first aspect, since the partial-image data is generated based on the area information which has been received, by setting the area information upon dividing one image into the plurality of pages as intended by a user in the image processing apparatus, it is possible to achieve a print result having a favorable readability with a page-break as intended by the user.

According to the instructions stored in the computer readable recording medium according to the second aspect of the present invention, which are executable by the computer, in a case of having received the image data converted from the data of first type which has been transmitted to the image processing system, the image processing apparatus displays, on the display section, the one image based on the image data. In a case of having received an assigning of the dividing position at which the one image is divided from the operating section, the image processing apparatus transmits, to the image processing system, the area information indicating the area of each page which has been divided according to the dividing position assigned for the one image. Moreover, in a case of having received, from the image processing system, the partial-image data corresponding to the partial image which is an image divided based on the area information, or the print data which has been generated based on the partial-image data, the image processing apparatus outputs, to the printing apparatus, the partial-image data which has been received, the print data generated from the partial-image data received, or the print data which has been received. Therefore, it is possible to print each of the images based on the partial-image data (partial images) on one recording paper. Since the image processing apparatus receives, from the image processing system, the partial-image data which has been generated based on the area information corresponding to the dividing position assigned by the user; it is possible to achieve a print result having a favorable readability with a page-break at a dividing position as intended by the user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below while referring to the accompanying diagrams. To start with, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below while referring to diagrams fromFIG. 1toFIG. 5B, A client10and an image processing system500are embodiments of an image processing apparatus and an image processing system respectively, according to the present invention. The image processing system500according to the first embodiment, which will be described later in detail, is formed as a system which is capable of achieving a print result with a favorable readability with a page-break carried out at a desired position for a print (printing) by the client10based on data with no page concept, such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language) data and data prepared by Excel (registered trademark) which is a spreadsheet software (hereinafter called as “Excel data”).

The client10according to the first embodiment is formed as a portable terminal such as a smartphone and a portable telephone. The client10is provided with a CPU (central processing unit)11, a ROM (read only memory)12, a RAM (random access memory)13, a flash memory14, an operation key15, a touch panel16, an LCD (liquid crystal display)17, a memory card interface (memory card I/F)18, a sound input-output section20, telephone-network communication section21, and a wireless LAN (local area network) transmitting/receiving section22. All the sections provided to the client10are connected mutually via a bus line23.

The CPU11controls each section connected to the bus line23according to fixed values and computer programs stored in the ROM12. The ROM12is a non-rewritable non-volatile memory. The RAM13is a rewritable volatile memory. The flash memory14is a rewritable non-volatile memory. An operating system14a(hereinafter, “OS14a”) and a print-control application14bare stored in the flash memory14. Here onward, the CPU11which executes computer programs such as an operating system and an application will be described only by a computer program name in some cases. For instance, the term “application” also means “the CPU11which executes the application” in some cases. The OS14ais a basic software for realizing a standard function of the client10, and in a case of the first embodiment, it is an Android (registered trademark) OS.

The print-control application14bis an application provided by a vender of a device such as a multifunction device having a printer and a print function, which is to be installed in the client10by a user, and which enables the use of the device from the client. For instance, the print-control application14benables printing by a printer directly from the client10without going through a personal computer etc. Moreover, the flash memory14is provided with a print-setting memory (not shown in the diagram), in which various print settings such as a size of a printing paper (recording paper) are stored. The print-settings stored in the print-setting memory are variable, based on a predetermined operation by the user.

The operation key15is a mechanical key for inputting instructions etc. to the client10, and is provided to a casing of the client10. The touch panel16is provided to be overlapping with the LCD17, and is used for inputting setting-information and instructions to the client10. The LCD17displays various screens. The memory card I/F18is an interface which is installed on a memory card19which is non-volatile, and controls writing or reading of data with respect to the memory card19. The sound input-output section20is a device for inputting and outputting sound and which includes a microphone and a speaker etc. The telephone-network communication section21is a circuit for carrying out conversation over telephone via a portable-telephone network (not shown in the diagram).

The wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22communicably connects the client10and the printer30by a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) connection via an access point (AP)50which is an intermediary apparatus, by a wireless LAN conforming to IEEE 802.11b/g standard. Moreover, the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22communicably connects the client10, and the image processing system500in the Internet800via the AP50.

The image processing system500includes a main server100, a conversion server200, a partial-image generating server300, and a database server (DB server)400(hereinafter, “servers100to400”). The main server100is a server Which functions as a front-end in the image processing system500. The main server100has a control section101which includes a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM which are not shown in the diagrams, an Internet communication section (not shown in the diagram), and a LAN communication section (not shown in the diagram). The main server100is communicably connected to the client10via the Internet800by an Internet communication section which is not shown in the diagram. Moreover, the main server is communicably connected to the conversion server200, the partial-image generating server300, and the DB server400by a LAN communication section which is not shown in the diagram.

The control section101, in a case in which the main server100has received the Excel data from the client10, as data to be printed, transmits the Excel data received to the DB server400. Thereafter, in a case in which the main server100has received a conversion instruction from the client10, the control section101transmits the conversion instruction to the conversion server200, and converts the Excel data received, to image data In the following description, the Excel data is exemplified as data having no page concept, which is data to be printed. Moreover, in the following description, the image data which has been converted from the data to he printed (Excel data in the first embodiment) may also called as “overall-image data”, and an image based on the overall-image data may also be called as an “overall image”.

The control section101, in a case of having received from the client10, area information which indicates print areas which are resulted from dividing the overall image into a plurality of areas, transmits the conversion instruction including the area information to the partial-image generating server300, and makes the partial-image generating server300generate image data corresponding to an image of each print area which has been divided based on the area information, out of the overall image corresponding to the area information. In the following description, the image of each print area which has been divided based on the area may also be called as a “partial image”, and image data corresponding to the partial image may also be called as “partial-image data”. Moreover, the control section101, in a case of having received a download instruction for downloading the partial-image data from the client10, transmits the download instruction to the DB server400, and upon acquiring the partial-image data corresponding to the download instruction from the DB server400, transmits to the client10.

The conversion server200is a server which converts the Excel data to image data of a predetermined format such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Expert Group) format, The conversion server200has a control section201which includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM Which are not shown in the diagram, and a LAN communication section (not shown in the diagram), The conversion server200is communicably connected to the main server100and the DB server400by the LAN communication section which is not shown in the diagram. The control section201, in a case of having received a conversion instruction from the main server100, converts the Excel data acquired from the DB server to image data (overall-image data), and stores the acquired overall-image data in the DB server400.

The partial-image generating server300is a server which generates partial-image data corresponding to the area information, from the overall-image data acquired by conversion by the conversion server200. The partial-image generating server300has a control section301which includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM which are not shown in the diagram, and a LAN communication section (not shown in the diagram). The partial-image generating server300is communicably connected to the main server100and the DB server400by the LAN communication section which is not shown in the diagram. The control section301, in a case of having received the conversion instruction including the area information from the main server100, generates image data (partial-image data) corresponding to each print image resulted from dividing based on the area information, from among the partial images corresponding to the area information, and stores each partial-image data in the DB server400.

The DB server400is a server which functions as a database which stores the Excel data which has been uploaded to the image processing system500from the client10, the overall-image data which has been acquired by conversion by the conversion server200, and the partial-image data which has been generated by the partial-image generating server300. The DB server400has a control section401which includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM which are not shown in the diagram, a storage section402which includes a rewritable non-volatile memory such as a hard-disc drive, and a LAN communication section (not shown in the diagram). The DB server400is communicably connected to the LAN communication section which is not shown in the diagram, the main server100, the conversion server200, and the partial-image generating server300. The control section401, in a case of having received the Excel data, the overall-image data, or the partial-image data from the main server100, the conversion server200, or the partial-image generating server300respectively, stores the Excel data the overall-image data, or the partial-image data which have been received, in the storage section402upon associating with a conversion11) which will be described later. Moreover, the control section401, in a case of having received a download instruction for downloading the partial-image data from the main server100, transmits partial-image data corresponding to the download instruction, to the main server100.

The AP50is an intermediary apparatus which relays communication between Wi-Fi (registered trademark) terminals. Moreover, the AP50has a broadband router function, and can be connected to the Internet800. The printer30is a printing apparatus which carries out printing on a printing paper, based on print data received from the client10.

In a case that a print instruction for printing the Excel data is given by the user by using the print-control application14bwhich. has been installed in the client10, the Excel data is uploaded to the image processing system500from the client. Moreover, in the conversion server200, the Excel data is converted to image data corresponding to one image (overall image) G1as shown inFIG. 2A. In an example shown inFIG. 2A, the overall image G1includes objects Q1, Q2, and Q3(hereinafter, “objects Q1to Q3”) such as a table, a graph, and an image.

The image data (overall-image data) corresponding to the overall image G1which has been converted in the image processing system500is stored in the DB server400and is also transmitted to the client10. As the client10receives the overall-image data, the client10displays the image (overall image G1) corresponding to the overall-image data which has been received, on the LCD17. At this time, in the overall image G1, separation lines L1and L2which divide the overall image G1are displayed by superimposing as shown inFIG. 2B. The separation lines L1and L2are line segments which are displayed at page-separating positions which are calculated based on a ratio of a size of the overall image G1and a size of the printing paper, which is stored in the print-setting memory (not shown in the diagram) of the flash memory14. The page-separating positions are calculated based on the ratio of the size of the overall image G1and the size of the printing paper, which is stored in the print-setting memory (not shown in the diagram) of the flash memory14.

Concretely, in a case that a size in a vertical direction of the overall image G1is H1and a size in a vertical direction of the printing-paper size is H2, the CPU11arranges the number of page separations, which is derived by subtracting 1 from a value obtained by discarding digits after a decimal point in a quotient of (H1/H2), at a distance of H2in a vertical direction from one end of the overall image G1. Whereas, in a case that a size in a horizontal direction of the overall image G1is W1and a size in a horizontal direction of the printing paper size is W2, the CPU11arranges the number of page separations, which is derived by subtracting 1 from a value obtained by discarding digits after a decimal point in a quotient (W1/W2), at a distance of W2in a horizontal direction from one end of the overall image G1.

In an example inFIG. 2B, one page separation (separation line L1) is arranged in the vertical direction of the overall image G1, and one page separation (separation line L2) is arranged in the horizontal direction of the overall image G1. By the page separation lines L1and L2, the overall image G1is divided into four areas R1, R2, R3, and R4(hereinafter, “areas R1to R4”). The areas R1to R4divided by the separation lines L1and L2are set as print areas. In such manner, since the separation lines L1and L2(dividing lines) which divide the image into a plurality of pages according to the printing-paper size are displayed in the overall image G1, the user, in a case of dividing the overall image into the plurality of pages, is capable of dividing upon taking into consideration the printing-paper size.

It is possible to move each of the separation lines L1and L2to a desired position on the overall image G1by touching the separation line displayed on the LCD17by a finger and moving the finger in a desired direction. Therefore, it is possible to set the print areas into which the overall image G1has been divided, in a range according to the user's desire. InFIG. 2C, a state, in which the separation lines L1and L2are moved such that each of the objects Q1to Q3in the overall image G1is included in one respective print area, is exemplified. Since it is possible to set the desired print area by moving the separation lines L1and L2, it is possible to set the print area freely and easily, thereby making it highly convenient.

The user inputs a print-execution instruction by a predetermined operation such as touching a print-execution button (not shown in the diagram) displayed on the LCD17, after having moved the separation lines L1and L2to desired positions. As the print-execution instruction is input, area information indicating the areas R1to R4set as the print area is transmitted to the image processing system500. The area information is formed by a plurality of coordinate information which enables to identify the print area which has been assigned by the user. For instance, the area information is formed by diagonal vertex coordinates, such as vertex coordinates of an upper-left corner and vertex coordinates of a lower-left corner in a rectangle forming each print area.

The partial-image generating server300in the image processing system500, based on the area information (information of coordinates) which has been received, generates the partial-image data for the aforementioned portion, from the overall-image data corresponding to the overall image G1stored in the DB server400. For instance, partial-image data corresponding to images (partial images) G2a, G2b, G2c, and G2d(hereinafter, “images G2ato G2d”) of the areas shown inFIG. 2D, is generated based on the areas R1to R4shown inFIG. 2C. The partial-image data which has been generated is transmitted to the client10. In the first embodiment, the partial-image data which has been generated is transmitted to the client10after enlarging or reducing according to the printing-paper size.

As the client10receives the partial-image data, the client10generates print data corresponding to the partial-image data received, and transmits to the printer30. As a result, images (partial images) of the areas R1to R4divided by the separation lines L1and L2shown inFIG. 2Care printed on printing papers P1, P2, P3, and P4(hereinafter, “papers P1to P4”) respectively (FIG. 2E). As it has been mentioned above, in an example shown inFIG. 2C, the separation lines L1and L2are moved such that the objects Q1to Q3are included (accommodated) in the areas R1to R3respectively. Therefore, the objects Q1to Q3are printed without being disrupted, on the printing papers P1to P3respectively in an example shown inFIG. 2E, the print result of the printing paper P4is a blank paper, and by making an arrangement which enables to specify the number of pages to he printed by the user, it is possible to make an arrangement such that printing of the fourth page is not carried out. Or, an arrangement may be made such that a partial-image data for which the print result is to become a blank paper is excluded from being subjected to printing.

As it has been mentioned above, the image processing system500converts the Excel data uploaded from the client10, to the overall-image data, and also generates the partial-image data corresponding to the images (partial images) of the print areas, based on the area information. Meanwhile, the client10is capable of dividing the overall image which has been converted in the image processing system50, to desired print areas by moving the separation lines which are displayed to be superimposed on the overall image. Therefore, the client10, even without having a capacity to carry out processing of the Excel data, is capable of outputting from the printer30a print result having a. favorable readability with a page break at a desired position, by using the image processing system500.

InFIG. 2BandFIG. 2C, examples, in which the overall image G1is divided into the plurality of print areas by the separation lines L1and L2which are straight lines, have been shown. However, in the first embodiment, an arrangement has been made such that the overall image G1can be divided into the plurality of areas by displaying rectangular frames according to the page separation, instead of the separation lines L1and L2. In such a case, it is possible to set an area desired by the user as the print area by moving a position of a rectangular frame and/or by enlarging or reducing a size of the rectangular frame.

An image processing sequence Which is to be carried out between the client10and the image processing system500will be described below by referring to a sequence diagram inFIGS. 3A and 3B. Processing to be carried out by the CPU11of the client10, and the control sections101,201,301, and401of the servers100,200,300, and400respectively is executed by a control program stored in each apparatus. For instance, processing to be carried out by the CPU11of the client10is executed by the print-control application14b. In the following description, “the CPU11of the client10” may also he called as only “client10”. Similarly, “the control section101of the main server100”, “the control section201of the conversion server200”, “the control section301of the partial-image generating server300”, and “the control section of the DB server400” may also be called as “the main server100”, “the conversion server200”, “the partial-image generating server300”, and “the DB server400” respectively. The Excel data may include a plurality of sheet data (data in which a plurality of cells are arranged in a lattice firm), but in the following description, for the sake of expediency, the Excel data is let to be formed by one sheet data.

In a case that the user has selected one Excel data desired to be printed as data to be subjected to printing, the client10, at step S1, uploads the Excel data which has been selected, to the main server100of the image processing system500from the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22. The Excel data which is to be subjected to printing may be data to be stored in any of the RAM13, the flash memory14, or the memory card19. The Internet communication section of the main server100receives the Excel data which the client has transmitted at step S1. The main server100sets a conversion ID for the Excel data received, and transmits the Excel data and the conversion ID from the LAN communication section to the DB server400(step S2).

Moreover, the client10transmits a conversion instruction for converting the Excel data to image data, from the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving, section22to the main server100(step S3). The Internet communication section of the main server100receives the conversion instruction Which the client10has transmitted at step S2, The main server100transmits the conversion ID which has been set for the Excel data which is subjected to conversion at step S2, from the Internet communication section to the client10(step S4). Meanwhile, the main server100transmits conversion instruction including the conversion ID which has been set, from the LAN communication section to the conversion server200(step S5).

The conversion server200acquires from the DB server400, the Excel data indicated by the conversion ID which is included in the conversion instruction (step S5a), and converts the Excel data which has been acquired to image data (overall-image data) of JPEG format (step S6). pup to the processing at step S6. for instance, the overall-image data corresponding to the overall image G1shown inFIG. 2Ais generated. The conversion server200associates the overall-image data acquired by the conversion with the conversion ID included in the conversion instruction which has been received from the main server100, and stores in the storage section402of the DB server400(step S7).

Meanwhile, the client10, in a case of having received the conversion ID from the main server100, transmits a download instruction for downloading the overall-image data, from the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22to the main server100(step S8). The download instruction includes the conversion ID which has been received from the main server100. The main server100, in a case of having received the download instruction for downloading the overall-image data from the client10, transmits an overall-image acquisition instruction, from the LAN transceiving section to the DB server400(step S9). The overall-image acquisition instruction includes the conversion ID which is included in the download instruction.

The DB server400, in a case of having received the overall-image acquisition instruction from the main server100, transmits from the LAN transceiving section, the overall-image data which is indicated by the conversion included in the overall-image acquisition instruction, to the main server100(step S10). The main server100transmits from the Internet communication section, the overall-image data received from the DB server400to the client10(step S11). The wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22of the client10receives the overall-image data which the main server100has transmitted at step S11.

The client10displays an image (overall image) based on the overall-image data received from the main server, on the LCD17(step S12). The client10, at step S12, displays the overall image as well as dividing lines (separation lines or rectangular frame) superimposed on the overall image on the LCD17, and details thereof will be described later. Due to the processing at step S12, the overall image G1and the separation lines L1and L2as shown inFIG. 2Bare displayed on the LCD17.

In a case that the user set (designated) the print area by operating the dividing lines which are displayed, and inputted the print-execution instruction to the client10, the client10transmits a partial-image generation instruction from the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22to the main server100(step S13). The Internet communication section of the main server100receives the partial-image generation instruction which the client10transmitted at step S13. Detail processing which the client10carries out at steps S12and S13will be described later as a partial-image division processing (step S200) by referring toFIG. 4B.

The partial-image generation instruction which is transmitted from the client10at step S13includes, the conversion ID corresponding to the overall image (overall-image data), a list of area information which indicates the print area which has been set by the user (hereinafter, the list of area information is called as “area-information list”), and the printing-paper size which is stored in the print-setting memory (not shown in the diagram) of the flash memory14. The area-information list is formed as a list in which coordinate information which enables to identify each print area has been listed up. For instance, the user, in a case of having input the print-execution instruction at positions of the separation lines L1and L2shown inFIG. 2, area information which includes area information (coordinate information) of the print areas R1to R4which are set by the separation lines L1and L2is included in the area-information list.

The main server100, in a case of having received the partial-image generation instruction from the client10, transmits the partial-image generation instruction, from the LAN communication section to the partial-image generating server300(step S14). The partial-image generating server300, in a case of having received the partial-image generation instruction from the main server100, transmits an image acquisition instruction, from the LAN communication section to the DB server400(step S15). The image acquisition instruction includes the conversion ID which is included, in the partial-image generation instruction. The DB server400, in a case of having received the image acquisition instruction from the main server100, transmits the overall-image data which the conversion ID included in the image acquisition instruction indicates, from the LAN communication section to the partial-image generating server300(step S16).

The partial-image generating server300, based on the area-information list which is included in the partial-image generation instruction, generates partial-image data corresponding to the print areas which have been set by the user, from the partial-image data received from the DB server400(step S17). At step S17, the partial-image data equivalent to the number of area information included in the area-information list is generated. For instance, based on the print areas R1to R4shown inFIG. 2C, partial-image data corresponding to the images G2ato G2dof the areas shown inFIG. 2Dare generated. The partial-image generating server300associates the partial-image data which has been generated, with the conversion ID included in the partial-image generation instruction, and stores in the storage section402of the DB server400(step S18). Detail processing which the partial-image generating server300carries out at steps S17and S18, will be described later as partial-image generation processing (step S100) by referring toFIG. 4A.

The client10transmits an acquisition request for acquiring a least of URL (hereinafter, the list is called as a “URL list”) which indicates a destination to store each partial-image data in the DB server400, from the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22to the main server100(step S19). The acquisition request for the ULR list includes a conversion ID corresponding to the partial-image data which is an origin of the partial-image data. The main server100, in a case of having received the acquisition request for the URL list from the client10, transmits the URL list indicating the conversion ID included in the acquisition, from the Internet communication section to the client10(step S20). The client10transmits a download instruction for the partial-image data from the wireless LAN transceiving section15to the main server100(step S21). The download instruction at step S21is an instruction for downloading the partial-image data from each URL in the URL list.

The main server100, in a case of having received an instruction for downloading the partial-image data from the client10, acquires the partial-image data from each URL of the storage section402of the DB server400, based on the download instruction (step S22). The main server100transmits the partial-image data acquired from the DB server400, from the Internet communication section to the client10(step S23). The wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22of the client10receives the partial-image data which the main server100transmitted at step S23.

The client10generates print data based on the partial-image data received from the main server100(step S24). Next, the client10transmits the print data which has been generated, to the printer30(step S25). The printer30prints an image based on the print data received from the client10. For instance, images of the areas R1to R4which have been divided by the separation lines L1and L2shown inFIG. 2Care printed on the printing papers P1to P4respectively.

The download instruction at step S21may be a download instruction for each of the partial-image data generated at step S17, or may be a download instruction which is intended for all the partial-image data generated at step S17. In the former case, processing at steps from S22to S25is carried out sequentially (one after another) for one partial-image data at a time. In the latter case, in one processing at steps from S22to S25, all the partial-image data is subjected to processing collectively.

Moreover, in a case that the Excel data is formed by a plurality of sheet data, as the conversion server200receives a conversion instruction from the main server100at step S5, the conversion server200converts the Excel data to the one overall-image data for each sheet data. In other words, the overall-image data equivalent to the number of sheet data included in the Excel data is generated. Moreover, the conversion server200carries out the processing at steps from S7to S25for each overall-image data.

The partial-image generation processing (step S100) mentioned above will be described by referring to a flowchart inFIG. 4A. As it has been mentioned above, the partial-image generation processing is a processing which the control section301of the partial-image generating server300executes according to a control program (not shown in the diagram). The control section301acquires area information of a first area from the area-information list (step S101). Next, the control section301generates partial-image data of the portion by trimming, from the overall-image data, based on the area information, or more elaborately, based on the coordinate information which forms the area information (step S102).

Next, the control section301enlarges or reduces the partial-image data generated, according to the printing-paper size (step S103). Concretely, at step S103, the control section301compares a size of the partial image based on the partial-image data which has been generated, and the printing-paper size, and in a case in which the partial image based on the partial-image data is not accommodated in the printing-paper size, the control section301reduces the partial-image data such that the partial image is accommodated on the printing paper. Whereas, in a case in which the size of the partial image is not larger than a predetermined proportion such as 60% with respect to the printing-paper size, the control section301enlarges the partial-image data so that the partial image does not spread out of the printing paper. By the processing at step S103being executed, it is possible to print each partial image with a size having a favorable visibility on the printing paper.

Next, in a case in which there is area information which is not subjected to processing in the area-information list (Yes at step S104), the control section301acquires area information of the subsequent area from the area-information list (step S105), and returns the processing to step S102. Whereas, in a case in which there is not area information which is not subjected to processing in the area-information list (No at step S104), the control section301stores the partial-image data which has been generated, in the storage section402of the DB server400(step S106), and terminates the processing.

Next, the overall-image division processing (step S200) which has been mentioned above will be described by referring to a flowchart inFIG. 4B. As it has been mentioned above, the overall-image division processing is a processing which the CPU11of the client10executes according to the print-control application14b. The CPU11displays the overall image based on the overall-image data received from the main server100, on the LCD17(step S201). Next, the CPU11calculates page separations based on a ratio of a size of the overall image and the printing-paper size stored in the print-setting memory (not shown in the diagram) of the flash memory14(step S202).

Next, the CPU11makes a judgment of whether a display mode is a separation-line mode or a rectangular-frame mode (step S203). The separation-line mode is a mode of displaying areas which are divided by page break, by displaying separation lines corresponding to page break which has been calculated at step S202, as dividing lines. Whereas, the rectangular-frame mode is a mode of displaying a rectangular frame which. surrounds areas divided by page break calculated at step S202, as dividing lines. The client10is arranged to be capable of selecting either the separation-line mode or the rectangular-frame mode as the display mode, based on a predetermined operation by the user.

In a case in which the CPU11has made a judgment that the display mode is separation-line mode at step S203(step S203: separation line), the CPU11displays the separation line at a position of page break, by superimposing on the overall image (step S204). By the processing at step S204, a display shown inFIG. 2Bfor example, is displayed on the LCD17. In a case in which the CPU11has received an instruction to move with respect to the separation line which has been displayed, based on an operation of the touch panel16by the user (Yes at step S205), the CPU11moves the separation line according to the instruction received (step S206), and shifts the processing to step S207. By the processing at step S206, a display shown inFIG. 2Cfor example, is displayed on the LCD17.

Whereas, in a case in which the CPU11has made a judgment that the display mode is rectangular-frame mode, at step S203(step S203: rectangular frame), the CPU11displays the rectangular frame which surrounds the areas divided by page separation, by superimposing on the overall image (step S209). In a case in which the CPU11has received an instruction for changing a size, or a movement with respect to the rectangular frame which has been displayed, based on an operation of the touch panel16by the user (Yes at step S210), the CPU11, according to the instruction received, changes the size or position of the rectangular frame (step S211), and shifts the processing to step S207. For instance, by arranging the rectangular frame along an outer edge of the object Q1(FIG. 2A), it is possible to set the object Q1only, as a print area.

In other words, in a case in which the user has given an instruction for moving the separation line or changing the rectangular frame, the CPU11executes processing at step S206or processing at step S211. Therefore, the user is capable of setting a desired range out of the overall image, as a print area. Whereas, in a case in which the CPU11has not received the instruction for moving the separation line (No at step S205), or, in a case in which the CPU11has not received the instruction for changing the rectangular frame (No at step S210), the CPU shifts the processing to step S207.

In a case in which the CPU11has received the print-execution instruction based on an operation on the touch panel16by the user at step S207(Yes at step S207), the CPU11transmits the partial-image generation instruction from the wireless LAN transmitting/receiving section22to the main server100(step S208), and terminates the processing. Whereas, in a case in which the CPU11has not received the print-execution instruction (No at step S207), the CPU11, in a case in which the display mode is separation-line mode (step S212: separation line), shifts the processing to step S205, and in a case in which the display mode is rectangular-frame mode (S212: rectangular frame), shifts the processing to step S210.

According to the image processing system500of the first embodiment described above, the Excel data which has been received as data subjected to printing from the client10is converted to the overall-image data, and the overall-image data achieved after conversion is transmitted to the client10. Moreover, based on the area information received from the client10, the partial-image data corresponding to the images (partial images) which have been divided based on the area information, out of the partial-image corresponding to the partial-image data is generated for each page, and the partial-image data which has been generated is transmitted to the client10. Accordingly, it is possible to print each partial image based on the partial-image data, on one printing paper. In other words, since the partial-image data is generated based on the area information received from the client, by setting the area information upon dividing one overall image into a plurality of pages as intended by the user, in the client10, it is possible to achieve a print result having a favorable readability with a page break as intended by the user.

Moreover, according to the image processing system500, the overall-image data acquired by the conversion by the conversion server200is stored in the DB server400upon associating with the conversion ID. Therefore, even at any timing thereafter, in a case in which the partial-image generation instruction including the area information and the conversion ID is received, it is possible to generate the partial-image data from the area information, from the overall-image data which is stored in the DB server400upon being associated with the conversion ID. In other words, if the user, upon converting the Excel. data to the overall-image data in advance, transmits the partial-image generation instruction to the image processing system at a convenient timing thereafter, it is possible to print a partial image of a desired printing area.

Moreover, according to the client10of the first embodiment, after the partial-image data has been converted upon uploading the Excel data to the image processing system500, since it is possible to receive from the image processing system500, the partial-image data which has been generated based on the area information corresponding to the dividing position specified by the user, it is possible to achieve a print result having a favorable readability with a page break at a dividing position intended by the user. Moreover, even in a case of a situation in which the client10has no capacity of processing the Excel data, or a situation in which the client10being in the midst of executing the processing is not able to carry out processing of the Excel data, by making the image processing system500carry out processing of the Excel data, the user is capable of achieving a print result with an intended page break. Moreover, since the area information which is transmitted from the client10to the image processing system500is not image data but coordinate information, it is possible to suppress the communication time to be short.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below by referring toFIG. 5A. In the first embodiment, an arrangement was let to be such that each partial-image data is enlarged or reduced according to the printing-paper size. However, in the second embodiment, each partial-image data is enlarged or reduced by a common enlargement ratio. In the second embodiment, same reference numerals are assigned to components which are same as in the first embodiment, and description thereof is omitted.

A partial-image generation processing (step S100) according to the second embodiment is also a processing which is executed by the control section301of the partial-image generating server300according to a control program (not shown in the diagram) similar to the first embodiment. The control section301executes processing at steps S101and S102similarly as in the first embodiment, In a case in Which there is area information which has not been subjected to processing in the area-information list (Yes at step S104), the control section301executes the processing at step S105similar to the first embodiment, and returns the processing to step S102.

Whereas, in a case in Which there is no area information which has not been subjected to processing in the area-information list (No at step S104), the control section301determines the common enlargement ratio based on a partial image of the maximum size, from among the partial images corresponding to the partial-image data which has been generated (step S121). Concretely, at step S301, the control section301compares the size of the largest partial image and the printing-paper size, and in a case in which the partial image is not fitted in the printing paper, the control section301determines the enlargement ratio having a negative value, such that the partial image is fitted in the printing paper. Whereas, in a case in which the size of the largest partial image is not larger than a predetermined proportion such as 60% with respect to the printing-paper size, the control section301determines the enlargement ratio having a positive value, so that the enlarged partial image does not spread out of the printing paper. Next, the control section301enlarges or reduces all the partial-image data by an enlargement ratio which has been determined (step S122), and stores the partial-image data generated, in the storage section402of the DB server400(step S106), thereby terminating the processing.

According to the second embodiment described above, since each partial-image data is enlarged or reduced by the enlargement ration which has been determined based on the size of the largest partial image, in a case in which each partial-image data includes characters and common symbols etc. it is possible to make uniform the size of characters and common symbols in a print result of each page. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a reasonable print result with no strange feeling.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described below by referring toFIG. 5B. In the first embodiment, an arrangement was let to be such that, the dividing lines are set automatically corresponding to the printing-paper size. However, in the third embodiment, the user sets a dividing line at an arbitrary position. In the third embodiment, same reference numerals are assigned to components which are same as in the first embodiment, and description thereof is omitted.

A partial-image generation processing (step S200) according to the third embodiment is also a processing which is executed by the CPU11of the client10according to the print-control application14b, similar to the first embodiment.

The CPU11executes the processing at step S201similar to the first embodiment. In a case in which the CPU11has received an addition of separation lines based on art operation on the touch panel16(Yes at step S221), the CPU11displays the separation lines added, by superimposing on the overall image (step S222), and executes processing at steps S205and S206similar to the first embodiment. The separation lines are added by the user drawing straight lines by touching desired positions on the overall image by a finger. Whereas, in a case in which the CPU11has not received the addition of separation lines (No at step S221), the CPU11shifts the processing to step S205. In a case in which the CPU11has received the print-execution instruction based en an operation on the touch panel16by the user (Yes at step S207), the CPU11, similar to the first embodiment, executes the processing at step S208, and terminates the processing. Whereas, in a case in which the CPU11has not received the print-execution instruction, the CPU11shifts the processing to step S205.

According to the third embodiment mentioned above, the user can set a separation line at an arbitrary position. Therefore, since it is possible to set a desired separation line at a desired position, it is possible to set the print area freely and easily, thereby making it highly convenient. In the third embodiment, an arrangement has been made such that it is possible to set the separation line arbitrarily. However, the arrangement may be let to be such that it is possible for the user to set the rectangular frame arbitrarily.

In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment described above (hereinafter, “the embodiments described above”), the image processing system500is an example of an image processing system according to the present invention. The client10is an example of an image processing apparatus. The print-control application14bis an example of an instruction which is executable by a computer. The conversion server200is an example of a converting section. The DB server400is an example of a storage section. The printer30is an example of a printing apparatus. The CPU11is an example of a computer. The LCD17is an example of a display section. The touch panel16is an example of an operating section. The processing at step S1is an example of a processing by a data receiving section and a data transmitting section. The processing at step S6is an example of a processing by the converting section. The processing at step S11is an example of a processing by an overall-image transmitting section and an overall-image receiving section. The processing at step S13is an example of a processing by an area-information receiving section and an area-information transmitting section. The processing at step S100is an example of a processing by a partial-image generating section. The processing at step S23is an example of a processing by a partial-image transmitting section and a partial-image receiving section. The processing at step S13is an example of a processing by a size acquiring section. The processing at steps S205and S210is an example of a processing by a dividing-position receiving section. The processing at step S25is an example of a processing by a print control section.

Although the present invention has been described based on the embodiments described above, the present invention is not restricted to the embodiments described above, and it is readily inferable that various modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention are possible.

For instance, in each of the abovementioned embodiments, the image processing system500has been formed as a system including the main server100, the conversion server200, the partial-image generating server300, and the DB server400. However, the image processing system500may be formed as a system in which one server has functions of the servers100to400. Moreover, in the embodiments described above, communication by the LAN communication section has been exemplified as a communication among the servers100to400. However, the communication may be by the Internet communication section of each of the servers100to400.

In the embodiments described, above, the Excel data has been exemplified as data subjected to printing. However, the present invention is also applicable to other data having no page concept, such as HTML data. Moreover, the present invention is also applicable to page data having page concept, such as PDF (Portable Document Format). Moreover, an arrangement has been made such that the conversion server200converts the data subjected to printing to the image data of PEG format. However, the format of the data after conversion is not restricted to JPEG format, and various formats such as PNG (Portable Network Graphics), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), and BMP (Bitmap) can also be adopted.

In the embodiments described above, a portable terminal having a communication function has been exemplified as the client10in which the print control application14bis installed. However, various apparatuses such as, a digital camera and a tablet having the communication function may become an example of the client10. Moreover, the present invention is also applicable to an apparatus which does not have the touch panel16, and in which an operation is inputted by mechanical keys. Moreover, in the embodiments described above, the description has been made assuming that the OS14ais an Android (registered trademark). However, the present invention is also applicable even in a case in which another OS has been installed.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that the client10is an apparatus which does not have a print function. However, an arrangement may such that a printing apparatus, in which the print control application14bhas been installed, is let to be the client10. The printing apparatus may be a multifunction device having the print function or a printer having only the print function. In such a case, in a case of the client10having received the partial-image data from the image processing system500, the client10transmits an image based on the partial-image data which has been received, to a print section of the client10, and is capable of printing by the print function.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that the image processing system500transmits to the client10, the partial-image data generated by the partial-image generating server300. However, an arrangement may be made such that the image processing system500generates print data based on the partial-image data generated by the partial-image generating server300, and transmits the print data to the client10. In such a case, the print data may be generated after the partial-image data has been generated, by the partial-image generating server300at step S17, or may be generated in a case in which the main server100has acquired the partial-image data from the DB server400, at step S22.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that the client10transmits the print data based on the partial-image data to the printer30. However, an arrangement may be made such that the partial-image data is transmitted to the printer30, and the printer30is made to carry out printing based on the partial-image data. Moreover, in the embodiments described Above, an arrangement has been made such that the image processing system500transmits the partial-image data to the client10, and transmits the print data corresponding to the partial-image data to the printer30from the client10. However, an arrangement may be made such that the image processing system500transmits to the printer30, the partial-image data. or the print data corresponding to the partial-image data, and makes the printer30print an image.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that the image processing system500transmits the overall-image data which has been converted from the Excel data in the conversion server200with a grade as it is, to the client10. However, an arrangement may be made such that the overall-image data is transmitted to the client10after lowering the grade. Lowering the grade means to make a data-size small by compressing the overall-image data, or to lower resolution of the overall-image data. Since the overall-image data is data which is transmitted for setting the print area in the client10, it is not required to be of a high grade, and by transmitting to the client after lowering the grade, it is possible to shorten the time required for transmitting the overall-image data. In this case, an arrangement may be made such that, at step S6, when the conversion server200has converted the Excel data. to the overall-image data, second overall-image data which is resulted by lowering the grade of the overall-image data, is generated, and both the overall-image data and the second overall-image data are stored in the DB server400upon associating with the conversion ID. Moreover, an arrangement may be made such that, at step S8, in a case in which there has been a download instruction from the client10, the corresponding second overall-image data is transmitted from the DB server400. In this case, the processing at step S6is an example of a low-grade image generating section. Or, an arrangement may be made such that in a case in which there has been a download instruction from the client10, at step S11, the main server100, after lowering the grade of the overall-image data received from the DB server400, transmits the overall-image data having the grade lowered, to the client10. In this case, the processing at step S11is an example of a low-grade image generation. Or, an arrangement may be made such that, without lowering the grade of the overall-image data, at step S6, the conversion server200, at the time of converting the Excel data to the overall-image data, converts to image data of low grade. In this case, the processing at step S6is an example of a low-grade image generating section.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that, at step S3, the conversion instruction is transmitted from the client10to the image processing system500. However, an arrangement may be made such that the transmission of the conversion instruction is omitted. In this case, an arrangement may be made such that, in a case that the conversion server200has received the Excel data, the conversion server200converts the Excel data to image data for each sheet data.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that, in the partial-image generation processing inFIG. 4AandFIG. 5A, the partial-image data is enlarged or reduced according to the printing-paper size. However, an arrangement may be made such that, without enlarging or reducing the partial-image data in the image processing system, the partial-image data which the client10has received is enlarged or reduced according to the printing-paper size.

In the embodiments described above, an arrangement has been made such that, only the number of separation lines or the rectangular frames corresponding to the page separation which has been calculated at step S202is displayed. However, an arrangement may be made such that, the separation lines or the rectangular frames can be added or deleted appropriately according to the user's desire. Moreover, in the embodiments described above, a rectangular area divided by the separation lines or the rectangular frames has been let to the print area. However, the area which is to be set as the print area is not restricted to the rectangular area, and it is also possible to use an area of various shapes such as a circular shape.