Inspection apparatus, image forming apparatus, storage medium and image forming method

Abstract

This invention provides an inspection apparatus, an image forming apparatus, a storage medium, and an image forming method, which, compared to the case where inspection is performed by simply setting read image data from an image formed object as correct image data, can inspect blank or solid portions with high precision. An inspection apparatus includes a processor that performs the following processing: when, in the case of setting read image data obtained by reading an image formed from original image data on a recording medium as correct image data and using this correct image data to perform a first inspection to determine the quality of read image data obtained by reading a new image formed object as the inspection object, a second inspection is performed on blank or solid portions included in the read image data set as the inspection object, using the original image data as correct image data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an inspection apparatus, an image forming apparatus, a storage medium, and an image forming method. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an image forming apparatus capable of inspecting images. This image forming apparatus includes: an image reading unit that reads images formed on a plurality of sheets of paper; and a feature calculation unit that, taking one of the plurality of images read by the image reading unit as a reference image and the others as images to be inspected, detects one or more feature points in both the reference image and the images to be inspected, and calculates the feature quantity of each feature point. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus includes a determination unit that determines the quality of the image to be inspected by comparing the feature quantities of each feature point in the reference image and the images to be inspected, as detected by the feature calculation unit. The determination unit searches for each feature point in the reference image and the images to be inspected, using a search area centered on each pixel of the image to be inspected, and determines the size of the search area based on the size of one or more objects in the reference image.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6323190

[0004] When inspecting an image by setting any one of the multiple read image data for each of multiple image formations as the correct image data, various noises (stains, dirt, dust, etc.) may sometimes adhere to the blank areas (the background color of the paper without an image) or solid areas (including halftone areas with the same color) of the image formation. If the read image data of the image formation containing noise in the blank or solid areas is set as the correct image data, it may sometimes affect the inspection accuracy.

[0005] For example, when image data containing the aforementioned noise is set as correct image data, in subsequent inspections, image data containing noise that should not be acceptable might be judged as acceptable, while image data without noise that should be acceptable might be judged as unacceptable. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the inspection accuracy of blank or solid parts. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an inspection apparatus, an image forming apparatus, a storage medium, and an image forming method that can inspect blank or solid parts with high precision, compared to the case where inspection is performed by simply setting the read image data of the image formed as correct image data.

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the inspection device according to the first method includes a processor that performs the following processing: when a read image data obtained by reading an image formed by forming original image data on a recording medium is set as correct image data and a first inspection is performed using the correct image data to set read image data obtained by reading a new image formed as the inspection object to determine whether it is good or bad, a second inspection is performed on the blank or solid portions contained in the read image data set as the inspection object to use the original image data as correct image data.

[0008] Furthermore, in the inspection device of the second method, in the inspection device of the first method, the processor performs both the first inspection and the second inspection on the entire read image data set as the inspection object, uses the inspection result of the second inspection to determine the quality of the blank or solid part, and uses the inspection result of the first inspection to determine the quality of the parts other than the blank or solid part.

[0009] Furthermore, in the inspection device according to the third method, in the inspection device according to the first method, the processor performs the second inspection on the blank or solid portion of the read image data set as the inspection object, performs the first inspection on the portion of the read image data set as the inspection object other than the blank or solid portion, uses the inspection result of the second inspection to determine the quality of the blank or solid portion, and uses the inspection result of the first inspection to determine the quality of the portion other than the blank or solid portion.

[0010] Furthermore, in the inspection device involved in the fourth method, when the determination result of the quality of the blank part or the solid part is different from the determination result of the quality of the part other than the blank part or the solid part, the processor displays the different determination results as the inspection result of the read image data of the inspection object, and controls the display of a screen for receiving whether the user allows it.

[0011] Furthermore, in the inspection apparatus of the fifth method, in any of the inspection apparatuses of the first to fourth methods, the processor uses image structure information obtained by analyzing the original image data to determine whether the original image data contains the blank portion or the solid portion.

[0012] Furthermore, in the inspection apparatus of the sixth method, in the inspection apparatus of the fifth method, the processor, in the second inspection, uses the image structure information to establish a corresponding association between the blank or solid portion of the original image data that is set as the correct image data for the second inspection and the blank or solid portion of the read image data of the object being inspected.

[0013] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above-mentioned objective, the image forming apparatus according to the seventh method includes: a forming unit for forming original image data on a recording medium; a reading unit for reading an image formed by the forming unit; and an inspection device, including a processor, which, when setting the read image data obtained by the reading unit as correct image data and using the correct image data to perform a first inspection to determine whether the read image data obtained by the reading unit is good or bad, performs a second inspection on the blank or solid portions included in the read image data set as the inspection object, using the original image data as correct image data.

[0014] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objectives, the storage medium involved in the eighth method stores a check program for causing a computer to perform the following process: when reading image data obtained by reading an image formed from original image data on a recording medium and setting it as correct image data, and using the correct image data to perform a first check to determine whether the read image data obtained by reading a new image formed is good or bad, a second check is performed on the blank or solid portions contained in the read image data set as the check object, using the original image data as correct image data.

[0015] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objective, the image forming method involved in the ninth method includes the following steps: when reading image data obtained by reading an image formed by forming original image data on a recording medium and setting it as correct image data, and using the correct image data to perform a first check to determine whether the read image data obtained by reading a new image formed is good or bad, a second check is performed on the blank or solid portions contained in the read image data set as the check object, using the original image data as correct image data.

[0016] Invention Effects

[0017] According to the first, seventh, eighth, and ninth methods, compared to the case where only the read image data of the read image formation is set as the correct image data for inspection, it has the effect of being able to inspect blank or solid parts with high precision.

[0018] According to the second method, compared to the case where only the first inspection is performed on the entire read image data set as the inspection object, it has the effect of being able to inspect blank or solid parts with high precision.

[0019] According to the third method, compared to the case where both the first and second checks are performed on the entire read image data set as the object of inspection, the processing time for the inspection can be shortened.

[0020] According to the fourth method, it has the effect of accepting the user's permission when the judgment results of good or bad differ in blank parts, solid parts, and other parts.

[0021] According to the fifth method, compared with the case where image structure information obtained from the original image data is not utilized, it has the effect of being able to easily determine whether there are blank or solid parts.

[0022] According to the sixth method, compared with the case where image structure information is not utilized, it has the effect of easily establishing a correspondence between the blank or solid parts of the original image data and the blank or solid parts of the read image data of the object being inspected. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following figures.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical structure of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 2 (A) is a top view showing an example of an image reading structure using the embedded sensor according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (B) is a side view showing an example of an image reading structure using the embedded sensor according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the first and second checks involved in the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a front view showing an example of the screen for allowing or disabling reception according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed by the inspection procedure according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 8This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow performed by the inspection procedure according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Symbol Explanation

[0033] 10, 10A - Image forming apparatus; 11 - CPU; 11A - RIP unit; 11B - Image forming control unit; 11C - Image reading control unit; 11D, 11H - First inspection unit; 11E, 11J - Second inspection unit; 11F, 11K - Blank / solid determination unit; 11G, 11L - Inspection result production unit; 12 - ROM; 13 - RAM; 14 - I / O; 15 - Storage unit; 15A - Inspection program; 16 - Display unit; 17 - Operation unit; 18 - Original document reading unit; 19 - Image forming unit; 20 - Embedded sensor; 21 - Communication unit; 30 - Inspection device; 40 - Allow / disallow reception screen; 41 - Allow selection bar; 42 - Determination result. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Hereinafter, an example of a technical solution for implementing the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] [First Implementation]

[0036] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical structure of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes an inspection device 30, a display unit 16, an operation unit 17, a document reading unit 18, an image forming unit 19, an embedded sensor 20, and a communication unit 21. Furthermore, the image forming unit 19 is an example of a forming unit, and the embedded sensor 20 is an example of a reading unit.

[0038] The inspection device 30 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, an input / output interface (I / O) 14, and a storage unit 15. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 and the inspection device 30 are integrally arranged, but this is not a limitation. The image forming apparatus 10 and the inspection device 30 may also be arranged separately.

[0039] The CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and I / O 14 are interconnected via a bus. The I / O 14 houses functional units including a storage unit 15, a display unit 16, an operation unit 17, a document loading unit 18, an image forming unit 19, an embedded sensor 20, and a communication unit 21. These functional units can communicate with the CPU 11 via the I / O 14.

[0040] The control unit comprises CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and I / O 14. The control unit can be configured as a sub-control unit controlling a portion of the operation of the image forming apparatus 10, or as part of a main control unit controlling the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 10. Integrated circuits such as LSI (Large Scale Integration) or IC (Integrated Circuit) chipsets can be used, for example, in some or all of the blocks of the control unit. Independent circuits can be used in each block, or circuits that are partially or completely integrated can be used. The blocks can be integrated as a single unit, or separate blocks can be provided. Furthermore, a portion of each block can be separately provided. Regarding the integration of the control unit, it is not limited to LSI; dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors can also be used.

[0041] The storage unit 15 may be, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The storage unit 15 stores a check program 15A for performing the check processing described in this embodiment. Alternatively, the check program 15A may also be stored in a ROM 12.

[0042] The inspection program 15A may also be pre-installed on the image forming apparatus 10, for example. The inspection program 15A may also be implemented by storing it on a non-volatile storage medium or by distributing it via a network and appropriately installing it on the image forming apparatus 10. Examples of non-volatile storage media include CD-ROMs (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), optical discs, HDDs, DVD-ROMs (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), flash memory, and memory cards.

[0043] The display unit 16 may use, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display. The display unit 16 may also integrate a touch panel. The operation unit 17 is provided with various operation keys such as numeric keys and a start key. The display unit 16 and the operation unit 17 receive various instructions from the user of the image forming apparatus 10. These instructions include, for example, instructions to start reading the original document and instructions to start printing the original document. The display unit 16 displays various information such as the results of processing performed according to the instructions received from the user or notifications regarding the processing.

[0044] The original document reading unit 18 reads one original document at a time from the paper feed table of the automatic document feeder (not shown) located on the top of the image forming apparatus 10, and optically reads the read original document to obtain image information. Alternatively, the original document reading unit 18 optically reads an original document placed on a document table such as a platen glass to obtain image information.

[0045] The image forming unit 19 forms an image on a recording medium such as paper based on image information obtained by the document reading unit 18 or image information obtained from an external personal computer (PC) connected via a network. In this embodiment, an electrophotographic method is described as an example of the image forming method, but other methods such as inkjet printing can also be used.

[0046] When the image formation method is electrophotography, the image forming unit 19 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging unit, an exposure unit, a developing unit, a transfer unit, and a fixing unit. The charging unit applies a voltage to the photosensitive drum, charging its surface. The exposure unit exposes the charged photosensitive drum to light corresponding to the image information, forming an electrostatic latent image in the drum. The developing unit develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum using a toner, thereby forming a toner image in the drum. The transfer unit transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum to a recording medium. The fixing unit fixes the toner image transferred to the recording medium by heating and pressurizing.

[0047] The embedded sensor 20 is a sensor that reads an image formed on a recording medium by the image forming unit 19.

[0048] The communication unit 21 connects to networks such as the Internet, LAN (Local Area Network), and WAN (Wide Area Network), and can communicate with external PCs via the network.

[0049] Next, refer to Figure 2 (A) and Figure 2(B) describes the image reading structure using the embedded sensor 20.

[0050] Figure 2 (A) is a top view showing an example of an image reading structure using the embedded sensor 20 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 (B) is a side view showing an example of an image reading structure using the embedded sensor 20 according to this embodiment.

[0051] like Figure 2 (A) and Figure 2 As shown in (B), the embedded sensor 20 is a sensor that reads images formed on a recording medium P such as paper, and is provided, for example, on a conveyor belt Cb that transports the recording medium P between the aforementioned fixing unit and the output tray (not shown). The embedded sensor 20 may use sensors such as CCD (Charge Coupled Device) and CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). In the embedded sensor 20, when light is shone from a light source, the reflected light from the recording medium P is imaged onto a light receiving unit via a light receiving lens, and converted into an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of reflected light in the light receiving unit, and measurement data is output. The embedded sensor 20 acquires measurement data for each line of the recording medium P sequentially by moving the recording medium P along the transport direction, and acquires readout image data of one plane of the recording medium P at the point when the entire recording medium P has passed through. The acquired readout image data is stored in the storage unit 15.

[0052] The image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment has the functions of a first inspection and a second inspection to inspect the image formed.

[0053] The first inspection involves setting the read image data obtained from reading an image formed on a recording medium from the original image data as the correct image data and setting the read image data obtained from reading a new image formed as the inspection object. In the first inspection, the read image data, i.e., the correct image data, is compared with the read image data of the inspection object to determine the quality of the read image data of the inspection object. Furthermore, the correct image data can be selected from multiple read image data sets, or the inspection object can be set as multiple read image data sets. The original image data is the image data that forms the basis of the image formed (printed), such as data processed by a RIP (Raster Image Processor) (rasterized data), bitmap data, and GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) data.

[0054] In the first check, for example, as candidates for correct image data, read image data obtained by reading image forms formed from several recording media of the original image data is displayed, the read image data selected by the user from them is set as the correct image data, and the read image data of newly formed image forms thereafter is set as the check object.

[0055] The second inspection involves setting the original image data as the correct image data and setting the readout image data obtained by reading the image formed from the original image data on the recording medium as the inspection object. In the second inspection, the original image data, i.e., the correct image data, is compared with the readout image data of the inspection object, and the quality of the readout image data of the inspection object is determined. In addition, similar to the first inspection described above, multiple readout image data can also be set as the inspection object.

[0056] Next, refer to Figure 3 The first and second checks involved in this embodiment will be explained in detail.

[0057] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the first and second checks involved in this embodiment.

[0058] First, the second check to set the original image data as the correct image data will be explained.

[0059] exist Figure 3 In step (S1), for example, the RIP unit 11A receives input image data D1 described in PDL (Page Description Language). Examples of PDLs include PCL (Printer Control Language, registered trademark) and PS (Post Script, registered trademark). Furthermore, the RIP unit 11A performs RIP processing, which will be described in detail later.

[0060] exist Figure 3 In step (S2), the RIP unit 11A performs RIP processing on the received input image data D1 and outputs the original image data D2. In the second check, the original image data D2 is set as the correct image data.

[0061] exist Figure 3 In step (S3), the image forming unit 19 receives the input of the original image data D2.

[0062] exist Figure 3 In step (S4), the image forming unit 19 receives the input original image data D2, for example, forms it on a plurality of recording media, and outputs a plurality of image formations P3a to P3c.

[0063] exist Figure 3 In (S5), as an example, as described above... Figure 2 (A) Figure 2 As shown in (B), the embedded sensor 20 reads each of the plurality of image formations P3a to P3c being conveyed on the conveyor belt Cb.

[0064] exist Figure 3 In step (S6), the embedded sensor 20 outputs a plurality of readout image data D4a to D4c obtained by reading each of a plurality of image formations P3a to P3c. In the second inspection, these plurality of readout image data D4a to D4c are set as the inspection objects.

[0065] In the second inspection, the original image data D2 (the correct image data) is compared with each of the multiple read image data D4a to D4c, and the quality of each of the multiple read image data D4a to D4c is determined.

[0066] Next, the first check of setting the read image data obtained by reading the image formation as correct image data will be explained.

[0067] exist Figure 3 In this process, the processing steps (S1) to (S6) are the same. However, in the first check, for example, the read image data D4a is set as the correct image data, and the newly output read image data D4b and D4c after reading image data D4a are set as the inspection objects. In the first check, each of the read image data D4a, i.e., the correct image data, and the inspection objects, i.e., the new read image data D4b and D4c, is compared, and the quality of each of the new read image data D4b and D4c is determined.

[0068] In the first inspection, the read image data is set as correct image data, so it is assumed that the state of the compared image (e.g., size, line thickness, etc.) is roughly the same as in the second inspection. Therefore, it can be said that the inspection is easier than the second inspection. However, conversely, as mentioned above, for example, if the read image data of an image formation containing noise in the blank or solid parts is set as correct image data, in subsequent inspections, it is possible to determine that read image data containing noise and which should not be acceptable is acceptable, and read image data without noise and which should be acceptable is unacceptable. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the inspection accuracy of blank or solid parts.

[0069] In the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, when performing a first check to set the read image data obtained by reading an image formation containing blank or solid portions as correct image data, a second check is performed to set the original image data as correct image data for the blank or solid portions of the read image data to be checked. This improves the inspection accuracy of blank or solid portions. Furthermore, as described above, blank portions refer to the background color portion of the paper where no image is formed, and solid portions refer to portions containing halftones formed with the same color.

[0070] Specifically, the CPU 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment writes the inspection program 15A stored in the storage unit 15 into the RAM 13 and executes the program, as... Figure 4 Each part, as shown, performs its function.

[0071] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the CPU 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment functions as a RIP unit 11A, an image forming control unit 11B, an image reading control unit 11C, a first inspection unit 11D, a second inspection unit 11E, a blank / solid determination unit 11F, and an inspection result production unit 11G.

[0073] As an example, RIP unit 11A translates the input image data described by PDL to generate intermediate data, performs color conversion on the generated intermediate data, and renders it to generate original image data. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the original image data can be, for example, rasterized data, bitmap data, or GIF data. Additionally, the original image data generated by RIP unit 11A is registered in storage unit 15. In the above... Figure 3 In the example, the original image data is equivalent to the original image data D2.

[0074] The image forming control unit 11B controls the operation of the image forming unit 19. Based on the control signal from the image forming control unit 11B, the image forming unit 19 forms the original image data registered in the storage unit 15 onto the recording medium and outputs the image formed product.

[0075] The image readout control unit 11C controls the operation of the embedded sensor 20. Based on the control signal from the image readout control unit 11C, the embedded sensor 20 reads the image formed from the image forming unit 19 and outputs readout image data. The readout image data output from the embedded sensor 20 is stored in the storage unit 15. In the above... Figure 3In the example, reading image data is equivalent to reading image data D4a to D4c.

[0076] The first inspection unit 11D performs the first inspection. Specifically, the first inspection unit 11D sets the read image data registered in the storage unit 15 as correct image data, and uses this correct image data to set the read image data obtained by reading a new image formation as the inspection object to determine its quality. That is, it compares the read image data, i.e., the correct image data, with the read image data of the inspection object, and determines the quality of the compared read image data. In the above... Figure 3 In the example, correct image data is equivalent to the initial read image data D4a, and the read image data of the object being inspected is equivalent to read image data D4b and D4c. Furthermore, since read image data D4a is correct image data, it is not part of the object being inspected, but the inspection result corresponding to the second inspection result is set to "Good".

[0077] The second inspection unit 11E performs a second inspection. Specifically, the second inspection unit 11E sets the original image data registered in the storage unit 15 as correct image data and uses this correct image data to determine the quality of the read image data of the inspected object. That is, it compares the original image data (i.e., the correct image data) with the read image data of the inspected object and determines the quality of the compared read image data. Figure 3 In the example, checking the object and reading the image data is equivalent to reading image data D4a to D4c.

[0078] That is, in this embodiment, the entire read image data set as the inspection object in the first inspection unit 11D and the second inspection unit 11E is subjected to both a first inspection and a second inspection.

[0079] The blank / solid determination unit 11F analyzes the original image data to generate image structure information, and uses the generated image structure information to determine whether the original image data contains blank or solid parts. This image structure information defines the characteristics of each object, such as blank or solid parts, and text parts. This image structure information is generated using a known method, so a detailed description is omitted here. Furthermore, when determining blank or solid parts, a predetermined number of pixels or a predetermined number of regions located at the edges (ends) of each object constituting the original image data are highly likely to be determined as blank or solid. Therefore, it can be configured so that these predetermined number of pixels or regions are not determined as blank or solid.

[0080] The inspection result generation unit 11G receives the inspection results of the first and second checks on the read image data designated as the inspection object. The inspection result generation unit 11G uses the inspection result of the second check to determine the quality of blank or solid portions contained in the read image data designated as the inspection object, and uses the inspection result of the first check to determine the quality of portions other than blank or solid portions (e.g., text portions). Based on these determination results, the inspection result generation unit 11G generates a final inspection result and outputs the generated inspection result.

[0081] Specifically, the inspection result production unit 11G uses the image structure information input from the blank / solid determination unit 11F to establish a corresponding association between the blank or solid portions of the original image data of the correct image data designated for the second inspection and the blank or solid portions of the read image data of the inspection object. This allows the determination of the blank or solid portions of the read image data of the inspection object. Furthermore, the quality of the determined blank or solid portions is assessed using the inspection result of the second inspection, while the portion other than blank or solid portions is assessed using the inspection result of the first inspection. In other words, both the first and second inspections are performed on the read image data of the inspection object, and the inspection result is differentiated based on whether it is a blank or solid portion.

[0082] Specifically, in the case of blank or solid portions, if the result of the first inspection is "No" and the result of the second inspection is "Good," then the result of the second inspection, i.e., "Good," is adopted as the judgment result for blank or solid portions. (This is repeated four times in the original text.)

[0083] Furthermore, in the case of a portion other than blank or solid parts, namely the text portion, if the result of the first check is "No" and the result of the second check is "Good", then the result of the first check, i.e., "No", is adopted as the judgment result for the text portion.

[0084] The inspection result production unit 11G controls the final inspection result of the read image data of the inspected object to be displayed on the display unit 16. Specifically, when the judgment result of the quality of blank or solid parts is the same as the judgment result of the quality of parts other than blank or solid parts, the inspection result production unit 11G controls the same judgment result to be displayed as the inspection result of the read image data of the inspected object. Furthermore, when the judgment result of the quality of blank or solid parts is different from the judgment result of the quality of parts other than blank or solid parts, for example, ... Figure 5 As shown, the inspection result production unit 11G displays different judgment results as inspection results of the read image data of the inspected object, and displays a control for receiving a screen indicating whether the user has given permission.

[0085] Figure 5 This is a front view showing an example of the allow / disallow receive screen 40 involved in this embodiment.

[0086] exist Figure 5 The allowed / unallowed reception screen 40 displays the read image data set as the object of inspection, and also displays an allow selection bar 41 and a judgment result 42. The judgment result 42 displays the judgment result of the blank or solid parts and the judgment result of the text parts. Furthermore, the allow selection bar 41 can selectively display "Yes" and "No". The user observes the judgment result 42 and the read image data, selects "Yes" when allowed, and selects "No" when not allowed. If the "OK" button is pressed, the final inspection result is displayed.

[0087] Next, refer to Figure 6 The operation of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

[0088] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process performed by the inspection procedure 15A according to the first embodiment.

[0089] First, if the image forming apparatus 10 is instructed to perform an inspection, the inspection procedure 15A is started and the following steps are performed.

[0090] exist Figure 6 In step S101, the CPU 11 acquires input image data from the original document reading unit 18 or an external PC.

[0091] In step S102, the CPU 11 performs RIP processing on the input image data acquired in step S101 and generates original image data. Furthermore, the generated original image data is stored in the storage unit 15. As described above, the original image data may include, for example, data processed by RIP (rasterized data), bitmap data, and GIF data.

[0092] In step S103, the CPU 11 controls the operation of the image forming unit 19 by sending a control signal to the image forming unit 19, forming the original image data registered in step S102 on the recording medium, and outputting an image formed object. Alternatively, multiple recording media can be used, and multiple image formed objects can be output.

[0093] In step S104, the CPU 11 controls the operation of the embedded sensor 20 in the following manner: it sends a control signal to the embedded sensor 20, reads the image formed objects output in step S103, and outputs the read image data. Furthermore, when there are multiple image formed objects, multiple read image data are output.

[0094] In step S105, the CPU11, for example, sets the first read image data as the correct image data, sets the subsequent read image data as the inspection object, and performs a first inspection on the entire read image data set as the inspection object.

[0095] In step S106, the CPU11 sets the original image data as correct image data, and similarly to the first check, performs a second check on the entire read image data set as the object of the check.

[0096] In step S107, CPU 11 generates image structure information from the original image data. At this time, the generated image structure information is used to establish a correspondence between the blank or solid parts of the original image data (which are set as correct image data) and the blank or solid parts of the read image data of the object being inspected.

[0097] In step S108, CPU11 determines the area of ​​the object to be inspected from which image data is read.

[0098] In step S109, CPU11 determines whether the region identified in step S108 is a blank or solid part. When it is determined that the identified region is a blank or solid part (when it is a positive determination), it proceeds to step S110. When it is determined that the identified region is not a blank or solid part, i.e., a part other than a blank or solid part (when it is a negative determination), it proceeds to step S111.

[0099] In step S110, CPU11 applies the inspection result of the second inspection to the blank or solid part determined in step S109.

[0100] In step S111, CPU11 applies the inspection result of the first inspection to the parts other than the blank or solid parts determined in step S109.

[0101] In step S112, CPU 11 outputs the final inspection result of the read image data relative to the inspection object based on the inspection result of the second inspection used in step S110 and the inspection result of the first inspection used in step S111, and ends the series of processes executed by this inspection program 15A.

[0102] Thus, according to this embodiment, both a first inspection and a second inspection are performed on the entire read image data of the object to be inspected. The results of the second inspection are applied to the blank or solid portions of the read image data, while the results of the first inspection are applied to the portions other than the blank or solid portions. Therefore, the inspection accuracy of blank or solid portions can be improved.

[0103] [Second Implementation]

[0104] In the first embodiment described above, the method described involves performing both a first inspection and a second inspection on the entire image data of the object being inspected during the first inspection. The results of the second inspection are applied to blank or solid portions, while the results of the first inspection are applied to portions other than blank or solid portions. In the second embodiment, the second inspection is performed on blank or solid portions of the image data of the object being inspected, while the first inspection is performed on portions other than blank or solid portions. Furthermore, the two inspections are performed without overlap for each region.

[0105] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the image forming apparatus 10A according to the second embodiment.

[0106] like Figure 7As shown, the CPU 11 of the image forming apparatus 10A according to this embodiment functions as a RIP unit 11A, an image forming control unit 11B, an image reading control unit 11C, a first inspection unit 11H, a second inspection unit 11J, a blank / solid determination unit 11K, and an inspection result production unit 11L. Furthermore, components having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment are marked with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0107] Blank / Solid Determination Unit 11K generates image structure information from the original image data and inputs the generated image structure information into the Second Inspection Unit 11J and the First Inspection Unit 11H respectively.

[0108] The second inspection unit 11J uses the image structure information input from the blank / solid determination unit 11K to establish a corresponding association between the blank or solid portions of the original image data of the correct image data to be checked in the second inspection and the blank or solid portions of the read image data of the object to be inspected. The second inspection unit 11J determines the blank or solid portions of the read image data of the object to be inspected and performs a second inspection on the determined blank or solid portions.

[0109] The first inspection unit 11H uses the image structure information input from the blank / solid determination unit 11K to determine the portion of the read image data other than the blank or solid portion (e.g., text portion) that is set as the inspection object, and performs a first inspection on the portion other than the determined blank or solid portion.

[0110] The inspection result production department 11L uses the inspection results of the second inspection to determine the quality of blank or solid parts, uses the inspection results of the first inspection to determine the quality of parts other than blank or solid parts, and produces the final inspection result based on these determinations, and outputs the produced inspection result.

[0111] Next, refer to Figure 8 The operation of the image forming apparatus 10A according to the second embodiment will be explained.

[0112] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed by the inspection procedure 15A according to the second embodiment.

[0113] First, if an image forming apparatus 10A is instructed to perform an inspection, the inspection procedure 15A is started, and the following steps are performed.

[0114] exist Figure 8 In step S121, CPU11 acquires input image data from the original document reading unit 18 or an external PC.

[0115] In step S122, CPU 11 performs RIP processing on the input image data acquired in step S121 and generates original image data. Furthermore, the generated original image data is stored in storage unit 15. As described above, the original image data may include, for example, data processed by RIP (rasterized data), bitmap data, and GIF data.

[0116] In step S123, the CPU 11 controls the operation of the image forming unit 19 in such a way that it sends a control signal to the image forming unit 19 to form the original image data registered in step S122 on the recording medium and output the image formed. Alternatively, multiple recording media can be used, and multiple image formed products can be output.

[0117] In step S124, the CPU 11 controls the operation of the embedded sensor 20 in the following manner: it sends a control signal to the embedded sensor 20, reads the image formed in step S123, and outputs the read image data. Furthermore, when there are multiple image formed objects, it outputs multiple read image data.

[0118] In step S125, CPU 11 generates image structure information from the original image data. At this time, the generated image structure information is used to establish a correspondence between the blank or solid portions of the original image data (set as correct image data) and the blank or solid portions of the read image data of the object being inspected. Furthermore, in this example, there are no particular limitations on the read image data of the object being inspected, but when the first correct image data to be inspected is set as the first read image data, subsequent read image data are set as the object being inspected.

[0119] In step S126, CPU11 determines the area of ​​the object to be inspected from which image data is read.

[0120] In step S127, CPU11 determines whether the region identified in step S126 is a blank or solid part. If the region is identified as a blank or solid part (in affirmative determination), the process proceeds to step S128. If the region is identified as not a blank or solid part (i.e., a part other than a blank or solid part) (in negative determination), the process proceeds to step S129.

[0121] In step S128, CPU11 sets the original image data as correct image data and performs a second check on the parts other than blank or solid parts determined in step S127.

[0122] In step S129, CPU11, for example, sets the initial image data to the correct image data and performs a first check on the parts other than blank or solid parts determined in step S127.

[0123] In step S130, CPU11 outputs the final inspection result of the read image data relative to the inspection object based on the inspection result of the second inspection performed in step S128 and the inspection result of the first inspection performed in step S129, and ends the series of processes executed by this inspection program 15A.

[0124] Thus, according to this embodiment, a second inspection is performed on the blank or solid portions of the image data of the object being inspected, while a first inspection is performed on the portions other than the blank or solid portions. Therefore, the two inspections do not overlap for each region, and compared to the first embodiment described above, the inspection processing time can be shortened.

[0125] In addition, in the above embodiments, processor refers to processor in a broad sense, including general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and special-purpose processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic devices, etc.).

[0126] Furthermore, the actions of the processor in the above embodiments can be executed by a single processor, or by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Also, the order of the processor's actions is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments and can be appropriately modified.

[0127] The inspection apparatus and image forming apparatus according to the embodiments have been illustrated and described above. The embodiments may also be in the form of programs for causing a computer to execute the functions of each part of the inspection apparatus. The embodiments may also be in the form of a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium storing these programs.

[0128] Furthermore, the structure of the inspection device described in the above embodiments is an example, and it can be modified according to the circumstances without departing from the main idea.

[0129] Furthermore, the processing flow of the procedure described in the above embodiments is also an example. Without departing from the main idea, unnecessary steps can be deleted, new steps can be added, or the processing order can be changed.

[0130] Furthermore, while the above embodiments describe the implementation of the processes involved in the embodiments using a computer and a software structure by executing a program, the implementation is not limited to this. Embodiments may also be implemented using a hardware structure or a combination of hardware and software structures.

[0131] The embodiments of the present invention described above are provided for illustrative and explanatory purposes. Furthermore, these embodiments do not encompass the entirety of the invention, nor do they limit the invention to the disclosed methods. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations will be readily understood. These embodiments were chosen and described to most readily explain the principles and applications of the invention. Thus, those skilled in the art can understand the invention through various modifications that optimize the determination of the various assumed embodiments. The scope of the invention is defined by the foregoing claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An inspection device comprising a processor, The processor performs the following processing: In the case where the read image data obtained by reading the image formed by the original image data on the recording medium is set as correct image data and the first check is performed using the correct image data to determine the quality of the read image data obtained by reading the new image formed, a second check is performed on the blank or solid parts contained in the read image data set as the check object, using the original image data as correct image data.

2. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor performs both the first check and the second check on the entire read image data designated as the inspection object. The quality of the blank or solid portion is determined using the inspection result of the second inspection, and the quality of the portion other than the blank or solid portion is determined using the inspection result of the first inspection.

3. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor performs the second check on the blank or solid portions of the read image data designated as the inspection object, and performs the first check on the portions of the read image data designated as the inspection object other than the blank or solid portions. The quality of the blank or solid portion is determined using the inspection result of the second inspection, and the quality of the portion other than the blank or solid portion is determined using the inspection result of the first inspection.

4. The inspection device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, When the determination result of the quality of the blank or solid part is different from the determination result of the quality of the part other than the blank or solid part, the processor displays the different determination results as the inspection results of the read image data of the inspection object, and controls the display of the screen for receiving user permission.

5. The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The processor uses the image structure information obtained by analyzing the original image data to determine whether the original image data contains the blank part or the solid part.

6. The inspection device according to claim 5, wherein, In the second check, the processor uses the image structure information to establish a corresponding association between the blank or solid portion of the original image data that is set as the correct image data for the second check and the blank or solid portion of the read image data of the checked object.

7. An image forming apparatus comprising: The forming section forms the original image data onto the recording medium; The reading unit reads the image formed by the forming unit; and The inspection device includes a processor that, when performing a first inspection to determine the quality of read image data obtained by the reading unit as correct image data and using the correct image data to determine the quality of read image data obtained by the reading unit as the inspection object, performs a second inspection on blank or solid portions contained in the read image data set as the inspection object, using the original image data as correct image data.

8. A storage medium storing a checking program for causing a computer to perform the following processes: In the case where the read image data obtained by reading the image formed by the original image data on the recording medium is set as correct image data and the first check is performed using the correct image data to determine the quality of the read image data obtained by reading the new image formed, a second check is performed on the blank or solid parts contained in the read image data set as the check object, using the original image data as correct image data.

9. An image forming method, comprising the following steps: In the case where the read image data obtained by reading an image formed from the original image data on a recording medium is set as correct image data and the first check is performed using the correct image data to determine whether the read image data obtained by reading a new image formed is good or bad, a second check is performed on the blank or solid parts contained in the read image data set as the check object, using the original image data as correct image data.

Images