Inspection system, inspection apparatus, and control method of inspection apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides an inspection system, an inspection apparatus, and a control method of the inspection apparatus. An inspection system includes: an image forming apparatus that generates a print material according to a print job including print data and makeup information; and an inspection device that inspects the printing material. The inspection apparatus obtains a scan image of a printing material, performs an inspection setting on a reference image, performs an inspection by comparing the scan image with the reference image, and performs control to copy an inspection region set in the inspection setting for all pages in a case where the inspection setting includes a serial number inspection and makeup information indicates single-sided printing. When the serial number check is set, the check device performs a data check for comparing the serial number set in the check setting with the check value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection system, an inspection device and a control method for the inspection device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an inspection (product inspection) for confirming whether a printed material is correctly printed is performed manually. However, in recent years, an inspection device has been used that automatically performs an inspection as a post-processing of a printer. The inspection device registers reference image data as a correct image in advance. Afterwards, an image forming device prints an image on a sheet based on the input image data, and the image is then read by a sensor provided in the inspection device, thereby obtaining scanned image data of the printed image. The scanned image data is compared with the registered reference image data to detect defects in the image printed on the sheet (printing material). The inspection for detecting defects in the pattern portion of a printed product will hereinafter be referred to as a print image inspection.

[0003] The inspection of variable areas (variable data) such as character strings or bar codes printed by variable printing is carried out together with the printed image inspection. The inspection includes, for example, a data readability inspection for checking whether the character string or bar code is readable, and a data verification inspection for checking the reading result of the character string or bar code with the correct answer and determining whether they match each other. The data readability inspection and the data verification inspection will be referred to as data inspection hereinafter. An example of a data inspection is a sequence number (or sequential number) inspection. The sequence number inspection is to inspect data with sequential values, such as an ID, a page number, or a date, in a page or between pages of the inspection object image.

[0004] Order Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2020-53761 describes a method of setting an inspection area for each of the front and back sides of a sheet and reflecting the setting of the front side on odd pages and reflecting the setting of the back side on even pages as a method of setting an inspection area for serial number inspection.

[0005] However, in the method described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-53761, an inspection area is always set for each of the odd-numbered pages (front) and the even-numbered pages (back). Therefore, even for printed materials printed using a single-sided print job, an inspection area must be set for each of the odd-numbered pages and the even-numbered pages, and the setting operation becomes a burden on the operator. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiments of the present disclosure eliminate the above-mentioned problems in the conventional technology.

[0007] A feature of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a technology that can set a serial number check area together for all pages in the case of single-sided printing.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an inspection system including an image forming device and an inspection device, wherein the image forming device is configured to generate printed materials based on a print job including print data and imposition information, and the inspection device has: an obtaining section for obtaining a scanned image of the printed material by receiving and reading the printed material; an inspection setting section for performing an inspection setting for a reference image; an inspection section for performing an inspection by comparing the scanned image with the reference image; and a control section for controlling, when the inspection setting includes a serial number check for checking a serial number as a consecutive number and the imposition information indicates single-sided printing, to copy an inspection area set in the inspection setting for all pages, wherein, when the serial number check is set, the inspection section performs a data verification check for comparing the serial number set in the inspection setting with a verification value.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an inspection device is provided, which includes: an obtaining section for obtaining a scanned image of a printed material by receiving and reading a printed material generated according to a print job including print data and imposition information; an inspection setting section for performing an inspection setting for a reference image; an inspection section for performing an inspection by comparing the scanned image with the reference image; and a control section for controlling, when the inspection setting includes a serial number check for checking a serial number as a consecutive number and the imposition information indicates single-sided printing, to copy an inspection area set in the inspection setting for all pages, wherein, when the serial number check is set, the inspection section performs a data verification check for comparing the serial number set in the inspection setting with a verification value.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a control method for an inspection device is provided, the control method including: obtaining a scanned image of a printed material by receiving and reading a printed material generated according to a print job including print data and imposition information; performing an inspection setting for a reference image; performing an inspection by comparing the scanned image with the reference image; and controlling, in a case where the inspection setting includes a serial number check for checking a serial number as a consecutive number and the imposition information indicates single-sided printing, to copy an inspection area set in the inspection setting for all pages, wherein, when performing the inspection, in a case where the serial number check is set, a data verification check is performed for comparing the serial number set in the inspection setting with a verification value.

[0011] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 1 Depicted is a diagram showing a configuration of an inspection system including an inspection device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram for explaining hardware components of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment;

[0015] Figure 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of an inspection apparatus according to a first embodiment;

[0016] Figure 4 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a print control apparatus according to a first embodiment;

[0017] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram for explaining software components of an inspection apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a print control apparatus of an inspection system according to a first embodiment;

[0018] Figure 6 is a flowchart for explaining the entire processing procedure from a registration operation before the start of an inspection to execution of an inspection in the inspection apparatus according to the first embodiment;

[0019] Figure 7 Depicted is a diagram showing an example of a job management screen displayed on the UI unit of the inspection apparatus according to the first embodiment;

[0020] Figure 8AA and Figure 8AB depicts diagrams each showing an example of an inspection setting screen displayed on the UI unit of the inspection apparatus according to the first embodiment;

[0021] Figure 8BA and Figure 8BB depicts diagrams each showing an example of an inspection setting screen in a case where a currently selected setting area is a serial number inspection area in the inspection apparatus according to the second embodiment or the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 8C Depicted are diagrams showing an example of an inspection setting screen in a case where a currently selected setting area is a serial number inspection area in the inspection apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

[0023] Figures 9AA to 9AE depicts diagrams each showing a setting example and an example of a collation value of a serial number check according to the first embodiment;

[0024] Figures 9BA to 9BEdepicts diagrams each showing a setting example and an example of a collation value of a serial number check according to the first embodiment;

[0025] Figure 10 Depicted are schematic cross-sectional views for explaining configurations of an image forming apparatus, an inspection apparatus, and a finisher (large-capacity stacker) according to a first embodiment;

[0026] Figure 11 This is for explaining the first embodiment Figure 6 Flowchart of the check setting process in step S603;

[0027] Figure 12 This is for explaining the first embodiment Figure 6 Flowchart of the inspection process in step S604;

[0028] Figure 13 is a flowchart for explaining a process in which the print control apparatus according to the first embodiment creates print data and inputs a job to the image forming apparatus and the checking apparatus;

[0029] Figure 14A and Figure 14B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the second embodiment;

[0030] Figures 15AA to 15AC Depicted are diagrams showing examples of data to be checked for all pages together in a double-sided print job according to the second embodiment, sequence number settings, and a check value table;

[0031] Figures 15BA to 15BC Depicted are diagrams showing examples of data, sequence number settings, and a check value table when deleting blank pages when check settings are to be performed on all pages together in a double-sided print job according to the third embodiment;

[0032] Figures 15CA to 15CC Depicted are diagrams showing examples of data for intentionally not arranging serial numbers, serial number settings, and a check value table when check settings are to be performed on all pages together in a double-sided print job according to the fourth embodiment;

[0033] Figures 15DA to 15DC Depicted are diagrams showing examples of data for setting whether to skip increasing / decreasing collation values ​​(serial numbers) of excluded pages, serial number settings, and a collation value table when check settings are to be performed on all pages together in a double-sided print job according to the fifth embodiment;

[0034] Figure 16A and Figure 16B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the third embodiment;

[0035] Figure 17A and Figure 17B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the fourth embodiment; and

[0036] Figure 18A and Figure 18B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the claims of the present disclosure, and that not all combinations of the various aspects described according to the following embodiments are necessary for the means of solving the problems according to the present disclosure. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar structures are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Please note that in the following description, in some cases, the image forming apparatus is also referred to as a multifunction peripheral (MFP).

[0038] [First embodiment]

[0039] Figure 1 A diagram showing a configuration of an inspection system including the inspection apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The inspection system includes an image forming apparatus 100, the inspection apparatus 110, a finisher 120, a print control apparatus 140, and a client PC 130.

[0040] The client PC 130 and the print control device 140 are connected to each other via a network 150. The client PC 130 transmits image data or document data to the print control device 140. Based on the received image data or document data, the print control device 140 generates print data that can be printed by the image forming device 100 and transmits the print data to the image forming device 100. The image forming device 100 prints based on the print data transmitted from the print control device 140 and discharges the generated printed material. The inspection device 110 receives the printed material discharged from the image forming device 100 and inspects the received printed material for defects. Defects can reduce the quality of the printed material and include, for example, stains caused by the attachment of color material to unintended areas during printing and color omissions caused by the failure to attach a sufficient amount of color material to intended areas.

[0041] In addition, in variable printing including variable areas such as character strings or bar codes, the inspection device 110 inspects the variable areas. For example, the inspection device 110 is capable of performing a data readability check for checking whether a character string or bar code is readable, and a data verification check for checking the reading result of the character string or bar code with the correct answer and determining whether they match each other. That is, the inspection device 110 is capable of performing: a print image inspection for detecting defects in the pattern portion of the printed material, and a data inspection including a data readability check and a data verification check. Please note that in the first embodiment, a serial number check of data whose numerical value in the data area is determined according to a predetermined rule will be exemplified as a data verification check. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention, and the object of the data verification check only needs to be data determined according to a predetermined rule. Other examples will be described in detail in the modified examples described later.

[0042] The finisher 120 receives the printed materials inspected by the inspection device 110 and switches the discharge destination of the printed materials based on the inspection result of the inspection device 110. More specifically, the finisher 120 stacks the printed materials that are determined to contain no image defects when inspected by the inspection device 110 on the main tray 1024 ( Figure 10 ) and discharges the printed material determined to contain image defects onto the top tray 1020 ( Figure 10 Note that a post-processing device capable of performing bookbinding, stapling, punching, etc. may also be connected to the finisher 120.

[0043] The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to a print control device 140, an inspection device 110, and a finisher 120 via communication cables. In addition to the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection device 110 is also connected to the finisher 120 via a communication cable. In the first embodiment, an online inspection system that sequentially performs image formation (printing), product inspection (inspection), and sheet discharge will be described as an example, but this is not intended to limit the present invention. The network 150 may be a wired network or a wireless network.

[0044] Figure 2 is a block diagram for explaining hardware components of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0045] The controller 200 analyzes the bitmap data (image data) and job information received from the print control device 140 and issues a print instruction to the printer unit 210. The printer unit 210 prints the image on a print sheet (paper or sheet) based on the print data. The user interface (UI) unit 220 displays a screen and accepts instructions from the user, such as an instruction to select sheet information for the image forming apparatus 100. The image forming apparatus 100 includes the controller 200, the printer unit 210, and the UI unit 220.

[0046] Next, the components of the controller 200 will be described. The communication interface (I / F) unit 201 sends / receives job information to / from the print control device 140 via a communication cable. The CPU 202 controls the entire image forming device 100. The RAM 203 is used as a work area when the CPU 202 executes various commands. The ROM 204 stores: programs to be executed by the CPU 202 at startup, various control programs, setting data of the controller 200, etc. The engine I / F unit 206 instructs the printer unit 210 to perform printing. The communication I / F unit 207 communicates with the inspection device 110 and the finisher 120. The above units are connected via an internal bus (system bus) 208. The video I / F unit 209 receives bitmap data from the print control device 140 via a communication cable for image data.

[0047] The CPU 202 interprets the bitmap data and job information received from the print control device 140 and instructs the printer unit 210 to execute printing via the engine I / F unit 206. The printer unit 210 prints an image on a print sheet based on the print instruction. For example, if the job information includes an instruction to execute printing on coated paper, the CPU 202 controls the printer unit 210 to feed coated paper sheets from a sheet cassette (sheet deck) of the image forming apparatus 100 storing coated paper sheets and execute printing.

[0048] Figure 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of an inspection device 110 according to the first embodiment.

[0049] The inspection control unit 300 controls the entire inspection device 110 and inspects whether the printed material contains defects. The image reading unit 310 reads the printed material transmitted from the image forming device 100. The image reading unit 310 reads the printed material to generate a scanned image. The UI unit 320 provides a user interface for the user to set the inspection device 110 and display the inspection results to the user. Note that the settings made by the user for the inspection device 110 include inspection items indicating defects to be inspected when inspecting the printed material. The inspection items include, for example, an inspection for the presence or absence of image defects such as circular defects (spots) or linear defects (streaks). The inspection device 110 includes the above-mentioned inspection control unit 300, the image reading unit 310, and the UI unit 320. Note that in the first embodiment, the UI unit 320 includes: a display unit that displays a screen and a display control unit that controls the screen to be displayed on the display unit. Also note that the UI unit 320 can have a touch panel function.

[0050] Next, the configuration of the inspection control unit 300 will be described. The communication I / F unit 301 sends / receives data to / from the image forming device 100 and the finisher 120. The CPU 302 controls the entire inspection device 110. The RAM 303 is used as a work area when the CPU 302 executes various commands. The ROM 304 stores: programs executed by the CPU 302 at startup, programs and setting data for the inspection control unit 300, etc. The inspection processing unit 305 checks whether the printed material contains defects. The above units are connected via an internal bus (system bus) 306. Note that when the CPU 302 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and executes the program, the function of the inspection processing unit 305 can be realized.

[0051] Figure 4 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the print control apparatus 140 according to the first embodiment.

[0052] The controller 400 receives image data or document data from the client PC 130 and performs a raster image processor (RIP) process to rasterize the image data or document data into raster data. The UI unit 420 displays a screen and accepts instructions from the user, such as instructions to change print job settings. The print control device 140 includes the controller 400 and the UI unit 420.

[0053] Next, the configuration of the controller 400 will be described. The communication I / F unit 401 receives image data or document data via the network 150. The CPU 402 controls the entire print control device 140. The RAM 403 is used as a work area when the CPU 402 executes various commands. The ROM 404 stores: programs to be executed by the CPU 402 at startup, programs and setting data of the controller 400, and the like. The image processing unit 405 performs RIP processing for converting image data or document data received from the client PC 130 into print data. The communication I / F unit 407 sends / receives data to / from the image forming device 100 via a communication cable. The above units are connected via an internal bus (system bus) 408. The video I / F unit 409 sends image data to the image forming device 100 via a communication cable for image data.

[0054] Image data created on the client PC 130 is sent to the print control device 140 as PDL data, and the PDL data received by the communication I / F unit 401 is stored in the RAM 403. The image processing unit 405 obtains the PDL data stored in the RAM 403 and performs image processing to convert the PDL data into print data. The image processing to convert the PDL data into print data includes, for example, rasterizing the PDL data to be converted into multi-valued bitmap data and performing screen processing to convert the multi-valued bitmap data into binary bitmap data. The binary bitmap data obtained by the image processing unit 405 is sent to the image forming device 100 via the video I / F unit 409. Information related to the print job content (hereinafter referred to as job information), including the number of copies and imposition information for single-sided or double-sided printing, is sent to the image forming device 100 via the communication I / F unit 407. Note that when the CPU 402 deploys the program stored in the ROM 404 to the RAM 403 and executes the program, the function of the image processing unit 405 can be realized.

[0055] Figure 10 Depicted are schematic cross-sectional views for explaining configurations of the image forming apparatus 100 , the inspection apparatus 110 , and the finisher 120 (large-capacity stacker) according to the first embodiment.

[0056] The image forming apparatus 100 receives user input via the UI unit 220 and displays the printing status or the apparatus status. The sheet cassettes 430 and 431 can store various types of sheets. Each sheet cassette can separate only the topmost sheet from the stored sheets and convey it to the sheet conveying path 1005. In order to form a color image, the developing stations 1001 to 1004 form a toner image using color toners Y, M, C, and K, respectively. The toner image formed here is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 1006 by superposition. The intermediate transfer belt 1006 is formed at Figure 10The sheet conveyed from the sheet conveying path 1005 rotates clockwise in the middle, and the superimposed toner image is transferred to the sheet conveyed from the sheet conveying path 1005 at the secondary transfer position 1007. The fixing unit 1008 includes a pressure roller and a heating roller. When the sheet passes between the rollers, the toner is melted and pressed, thereby fixing the toner image on the sheet. The sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 1008 is conveyed to the conveying path 1012 via the sheet conveying path 1009. If further melting and pressing are required for fixing depending on the type of sheet, the sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 1008 is conveyed to the second fixing unit 1010 via the upper sheet conveying path. Then, after the sheet undergoes additional melting and pressing, the sheet is conveyed to the conveying path 1012 via the sheet conveying path 1011. If the image forming mode is the duplex mode, the sheet that has undergone fixing is conveyed to the sheet reversing path 1013. In this way, after the sheet is reversed in the sheet reversing path 1013 , the sheet is conveyed to the duplex conveying path 1014 , and an image is transferred to the second side of the sheet at the secondary transfer position 1007 .

[0057] In the inspection device 110, contact image sensors (CIS) 1015 and 1016 are arranged opposite each other. CIS 1015 and 1016 correspond to the image reading unit 310 described above. CIS 1015 is a sensor configured to read the upper surface of a sheet, while CIS 1016 is a sensor configured to read the lower surface of a sheet. Inspection device 110 uses CIS 1015 and 1016 to scan a sheet conveyed to a sheet conveying path 1017 when it reaches a predetermined position.

[0058] The finisher 120 is a large-capacity stacker capable of stacking a large number of sheets. The finisher 120 includes a main tray 1024 as a tray for stacking sheets. Sheets that have passed the inspection device 110 enter the finisher 120 via a sheet conveying path 1019. From the sheet conveying path 1019, the sheets pass through a sheet conveying path 1022 and are stacked on the main tray 1024. The finisher 120 also includes a top tray 1020 as an ejection tray. Sheets in which defects have been detected by the inspection device 110 are ejected to the top tray 1020. To be ejected to the top tray 1020, the sheets are conveyed from the sheet conveying path 1019 via a sheet conveying path 1021 to the top tray 1020. A reversing unit 1023 for reversing the sheets is used to stack the sheets on the main tray 1024. When stacking the sheets on the main tray 1024, the reversing unit 1023 reverses the sheets once so that the orientation of the sheets when stacked is the same as that of the incoming sheets. When the sheets are conveyed to the top tray 1020 , the sheets are directly discharged without being reversed while being stacked, and thus the reversing unit 1023 does not perform a reversing operation on the sheets.

[0059] Next, we will describe an overview of the printed image inspection performed by the inspection device 110 according to the first embodiment. The inspection device 110 uses the CISs 1015 and 1016 corresponding to the image reading unit 310 to read a printed material, thereby obtaining scanned image data of the printed material as the inspection target. This scanned image data is stored in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Subsequently, the inspection device 110 causes the inspection processing unit 305 to obtain the difference between each pixel of the reference image data (hereinafter referred to as the reference image) previously stored in the RAM 303 and the scanned image data (hereinafter referred to as the scanned image) serving as the inspection target.

[0060] Next, the inspection device 110 performs an inspection by comparing the obtained difference value with the inspection threshold value (contrast, size, etc.) for each inspection item on a pixel-by-pixel basis. If the difference value is less than the inspection threshold value, the inspection is considered OK (no defect); otherwise, the inspection is considered NG (defective). The inspection results are stored in the RAM 303. For example, the following information is stored: information indicating whether the printed material contains defects, the type of defect detected (spots or streaks), and the location of the defect when the defect is displayed on the UI unit 320.

[0061] Next, an outline of data inspection by the inspection apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0062] The inspection device 110 uses the CIS 1015 and 1016 corresponding to the image reading unit 310 to read the printed material, thereby obtaining a scanned image of the printed material as the inspection object. The scanned image is stored in the RAM 303. Subsequently, the inspection device 110 causes the inspection processing unit 305 to check whether the string or barcode is readable using a preset character font or barcode standard for optical character recognition (OCR). A data verification check can also be performed, which is used to verify whether the result of the read string or barcode matches the corresponding data in the pre-prepared correct CSV file. In the data verification check, if it is determined that the data matches each other, the inspection is OK (no defects); otherwise, the inspection is NG (no defects). In addition, if the string or barcode contains a numerical value and the numerical value changes regularly, this regularity is input into the UI unit 320, so that data inspection can be performed without a CSV file. This is called a sequence number check. The results of the data check are stored in the RAM 303. For example, the following information is saved: a reading result of a character string or barcode read from a printed material, a result of verification with correct data, position information of the read character or barcode when displayed on the UI unit 320, and the like.

[0063] The CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 instructs the UI unit 320 to display the inspection result saved in the RAM 303. When the inspection result is thus displayed on the UI unit 320, the user can recognize the inspection result.

[0064] If a predetermined number of printed materials containing defects continue to appear, the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 transmits information about the defects to the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication I / F unit 301 .

[0065] The controller 200 receives information indicating that printed materials containing defects continue to appear via the communication I / F unit 207 of the image forming apparatus 100. When the controller 200 receives this information, the CPU 202 of the image forming apparatus 100 instructs the printer unit 210 to stop printing. When the printer unit 210 is thus instructed to stop printing, the image forming apparatus 100 stops the printing operation.

[0066] Furthermore, the CPU 302 of the inspection device 110 transmits information to the finisher 120 via the communication I / F unit 301 based on the inspection results stored in the RAM 303. The information transmitted to the finisher 120 indicates whether the printed material contains defects. Using the received information, the finisher 120 conveys printed materials without any defects to the normal main tray 1024 and stacks them on the main tray 1024, and discharges printed materials containing defects to the top tray 1020.

[0067] Figure 5 1 is a functional block diagram for explaining software components of the inspection apparatus 110 , the image forming apparatus 100 , and the print control apparatus 140 of the inspection system according to the first embodiment.

[0068] First, the software components (software modules) running on the print control device 140 will be described. The functions of the software modules are stored as programs in the ROM 404, and when the CPU 402 deploys the programs to the RAM 403 and executes these programs, these functions are realized. The communication control module 501 performs communication control for communicating with another device. The UI control module 502 controls the content displayed on the UI unit 420, and issues control instructions to another control module etc. based on the instructions accepted by the UI unit 420. The PDL analysis module 503 analyzes the PDL data received from the client PC 130, and performs RIP processing and job information generation. The printer control module 504 generates instructions for controlling the image forming device 100 based on the RIP image and job information generated by the PDL analysis module 503. The instructions thus generated are sent to the image forming device 100 via the communication control module 501.

[0069] Next, the software components running on the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. The functions of the software modules are stored as programs in the ROM 204, and these functions are realized when the CPU 202 deploys the programs to the RAM 203 and executes them. The communication control module 511 performs communication control for communicating with another device. The UI control module 512 controls the content displayed on the UI unit 220 and issues control instructions to other control modules based on instructions received by the UI unit 220. The print control module 513 executes print jobs in response to requests from the print control apparatus 140.

[0070] Next, the software components running on the inspection device 110 will be described. The functions of the software modules are stored as programs in the ROM 304, and when the CPU 302 deploys the programs to the RAM 303 and executes them, these functions are realized. The communication control module 521 performs communication control for communicating with another device. The UI control module 522 controls the content displayed on the UI unit 320 and issues control instructions to another control module etc. based on the instructions accepted by the UI unit 320. The inspection data storage module 523 stores information associated with the inspection, such as settings required for the inspection, reference images, and inspection results, in the RAM 303 or a storage unit (not shown). The inspection control module 524 performs the control required for the inspection, such as the inspection settings accepted from the UI control module 522, the registration of the reference image, and the comparison of the reference image with the inspection image (scanned image).

[0071] Figure 13 1 is a flowchart for explaining the process of creating print data by the print control apparatus 140 and inputting a job to the image forming apparatus 100 and the checking apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment. Note that the process shown in this flowchart is implemented when the CPU 402 of the print control apparatus 140 deploys the programs stored in the ROM 404 to the RAM 403 and executes them.

[0072] In step S1301, the CPU 402 functions as the PDL analysis module 503 to load the PDL data received from the client PC 130. The process proceeds to step S1302, and the CPU 402 functions as the PDL analysis module 503 to create bitmap data for printing in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the PDL data. The process proceeds to step S1303, and the CPU 402 functions as the PDL analysis module 503 to obtain imposition information for single-sided printing or double-sided printing from the PDL data. The process then proceeds to step S1304, and the CPU 402 functions as the PDL analysis module 503 to obtain information other than the single-sided printing or double-sided printing information obtained in step S1303 by performing analysis, and saves this information as job information by including the imposition information obtained in step S1303. The process advances to step S1305, and the CPU 402 functions as the printer control module 504 to cause the communication control module 501 to transmit the bitmap data and the job information generated in steps S1302 and S1304, respectively, to the image forming apparatus 100. Then, in step S1306, the CPU 402 functions as the printer control module 504 to transmit the job information generated in step S1304 to the checking apparatus 110 via the image forming apparatus 100.

[0073] Figure 6 This flowchart is a flowchart for explaining the entire processing procedure from the registration operation before the start of the inspection to the execution of the inspection in the inspection apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment. The processing shown in this flowchart is realized when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 deploys the programs stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and executes these programs.

[0074] In step S601, the CPU 302 operates as the inspection control module 524 to register a character font. Registered character fonts are used for data inspection. Character fonts are font data obtained by associating character images and character codes of characters required for optical character recognition (OCR) performed during data inspection. The inspection data storage module 523 stores registered character fonts.

[0075] The character font registration procedure begins with the inspection device 110 being on standby in character font image loading mode and receiving a print job for character font creation from the client PC 130. Upon receiving the print job for character font creation from the client PC 130, the inspection device 110 loads the character font image. More specifically, if the image forming device 100 prints according to the print job, the inspection device 110 detects the printed and discharged printed material, causes the image reading unit 310 to scan the printed material, and saves the scanned image in the inspection device 110's RAM 303. Next, the inspection device 110 extracts characters to be subjected to OCR from the scanned image one by one and creates a character font by having the user input the character codes corresponding to the extracted character images. The character font thus created is saved in the inspection device 110's RAM 303. While the method for creating a character font according to the first embodiment has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto, and any method capable of creating data by associating character codes with each character image extracted from the scanned image may be employed. Note that during inspection, only the print image inspection may be performed without data inspection. In this case, the process proceeds to step S602 without performing step S601.

[0076] In step S602, the CPU 302, functioning as the inspection control module 524, registers the reference image as the correct image for inspection. At this point, the inspection device 110 is on standby in the reference image loading mode, and the image forming device 100 executes a print job for reference image registration from the client PC 130. During printing, the inspection device 110 detects the delivery of printed material from the image forming device 100, causes the image reading unit 310 to scan the printed material, and stores the scanned image as the reference image in the inspection device 110's RAM 303.

[0077] Next, the process proceeds to step S603, and the CPU 302 functions as the inspection control module 524 to save various inspection setting values ​​such as the inspection area and the inspection level in the RAM 303 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to the inspection setting made by the user. Note that reference will be made later to Figure 11 The flowchart shown in describes the details of the processing in step S603. Next, the processing proceeds to step S604, and the CPU 302 functions as the inspection control module 524 to receive a print job for inspection from the client PC 130 and detect the transfer of the printed material printed and discharged by the image forming apparatus 100. Then, the image reading unit 310 reads the printed material and saves the scanned image in the RAM 303 of the inspection apparatus 110. Then, the scanned image is compared with the reference image and the inspection is performed using the inspection setting value set in step S603, thereby ending the processing. Note that reference will be made later to the following. Figure 12 The flowchart shown in describes the details of the checking process in step S604.

[0078] Figure 7 Depicted is a diagram showing an example of the job management screen 700 displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment.

[0079] The job management screen 700 is displayed when the inspection apparatus 110 is activated. Alternatively, the job management screen 700 is displayed when an application is activated by a user operation on the UI unit 320. From the job management screen 700, the user can transition to each of the font registration step, the reference image registration step, the inspection setting step, and the inspection step.

[0080] The close button 701 is a button for ending the display of the job management screen 700. The new button 702 is a button for creating a new inspection job, and the reference image is registered when the new button 702 is pressed. The copy button 703 is a button for copying the inspection job that has been created. If the copy button 703 is pressed in a state where the desired inspection job is selected from the inspection job list 708, the selected inspection job will be copied. By copying in this manner, the reference image and inspection settings can be copied and the inspection can be performed again. The delete button 704 is used to delete the inspection job selected from the inspection job list 708. In this example, by pressing the delete button 704 in a state where multiple inspection jobs are selected, multiple inspection jobs can be deleted at the same time. If the inspection setting button 705 is pressed, the control is transferred to, for example Figure 8AA The inspection setting screen 800 is shown, and inspection settings can be performed for the inspection job for which the reference image registration has been completed. The inspection button 706 is used to instruct to perform an inspection for the inspection job for which the reference image registration and inspection settings have been completed. The font registration button 707 is used to instruct to register a character font, as described above.

[0081] Next, we will refer to Figures 8AA to 8C Describes the inspection settings.

[0082] Figure 8AA An example of an inspection setting screen 800 for performing inspection settings displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 is shown.

[0083] Press the reference image change button 801 to change the reference image. Button 802 is an inspection area selection button, and is pressed by the user to select an inspection area that has been set. Button 803 is an inspection area deletion button, and is pressed by the user to delete the selected inspection area. Button 804 is used to rotate the image displayed in area 805. Area 805 is a display area that displays the loaded reference image. If there are multiple sheets to be loaded, the displayed reference image is switched by button 810. It is also possible to switch the front and back of the loaded reference image by button 810. If the OK button 811 is pressed, the contents set in the inspection setting screen 800 are saved, and the control is transferred to Figure 7 Alternatively, when the OK button 811 is pressed, control may be transferred to the check screen (not shown) so that the check can be performed. If the Cancel button 812 is pressed, control may be transferred to the Figure 7 The job management screen 700 shown is displayed, and the settings in the inspection setting screen 800 are not saved.

[0084] The user presses a print image inspection area setting button 821 to create a new print image inspection area. After pressing button 821, the user sets an inspection area for the reference image displayed in area 805. Area 806 is an example of a set print image inspection area.

[0085] The user presses data inspection area setup button 822 to create a new character inspection area or barcode inspection area. After pressing button 822, the user sets the inspection area for data inspection based on the reference image displayed in area 805. Area 807 shows an example of setting a character inspection area, while area 808 shows an example of setting a barcode inspection area.

[0086] The user presses the serial number inspection area setting button 823 to create a new serial number inspection area. After pressing button 823, the user sets the inspection area for the serial number inspection for the reference image displayed in area 805. Area 809 shows an example of the setting of the serial number inspection area.

[0087] The data check setting area 831 includes a UI group for setting the data check area displayed when the data check area is selected in the area 805. In this example, it is assumed that the currently selected area is the area 807 representing the character check area. The application range setting 832 is used to set the application range of the selected area. If no area is selected, the currently selected check area is only arranged in the page displayed in the area 805 at this time. Figure 8AA As shown, if "Same side of current page" is selected, the currently selected inspection area is arranged on the same side of the page according to whether the currently selected inspection area is arranged on the front or back side of the sheet in area 805. If "All pages" is selected, the currently selected inspection area is arranged on all pages.

[0088] The verification check setting area 833 is an area for setting the correct CSV file to be verified when performing the verification check. By pressing the reference button 834, a file is selected and the selected file name is displayed. Figure 8AA In the example, "abc.csv" is displayed as the file name. Specifying the correct CSV file is common to both character inspection and barcode inspection.

[0089] In the setting area 835, the settings for the currently selected data check area are made. In this example, the character direction is selected, the character area or barcode area is selected, and the font type, barcode type, whether or not to perform a check, and the columns of the CSV file that are correct when the check is performed are specified. Setting item 836 sets the character direction of the character area 807. Setting items 837 and 838 specify whether the currently selected area is subject to a character string check or a barcode check. Figure 8AA In the , select character string check. Setting item 839 sets the font used for OCR processing of character area 807. Figure 8AA , set the font "OCRB" and the size to 12 points. Setting item 840 sets the barcode type when the barcode check is selected in setting item 838. Setting item 841 sets whether to perform the check. If the radio button in setting item 837 is selected to set the "exist" check, the character area 807 is OCR-processed using the correct CSV file specified in the check setting area 833 and the column number specified in setting item 842. Then, the read character string is checked against the character string specified in the correct CSV file. Figure 8AA , select the radio button to set the Exists check.

[0090] Figure 8AB A diagram showing an example of the check setting screen when the serial number check area setting button 823 is pressed to set the serial number check area is depicted. Figure 8AA Description of Common Parts It is assumed here that the serial number check area 809 in the area 805 is selected.

[0091] The serial number check setting area 851 includes a UI group for setting the serial number check area displayed when the serial number check area 809 is selected in area 805. In the serial number setting area 852, the currently selected serial number check area is set. In this example, the serial number rules are set. The serial number rules include: specifying ascending or descending order, the starting number, the offset, the number of digits, the interval, and the repetition. Setting item 853 is an item for selecting whether the numerical value of the serial number increases (ascending) or decreases (descending), and in the case of ascending order, the numerical value increases, and in the case of descending order, the numerical value decreases. Setting item 854 is an item for setting the starting number of the serial number. Setting item 855 is an item for setting the increase / decrease value between sheets of the serial number check object area. In the first embodiment, this is called an offset. Setting item 856 is an item for setting the number of digits of the serial number. For the 5-digit "01234" as in area 809, 5 is specified. There is no need to directly set the number of digits of the numerical value of the check object area. For example, even if the number of digits in the numerical value of the inspection target area is 5, if only 3 of the 5 digits are to be inspected, "3" is set. Setting item 857 is an item for setting the number of sheets to be increased or decreased by the offset. For example, if "2" is set as the interval, the serial number is increased by the offset (1 in this example) for every two sheets. Setting item 858 sets the number of times the serial number created by the settings of setting items 853, 854, 855, 856, and 857 is repeated.

[0092] The setting items 860 to 864 included in the setting area 859 are Figure 8AA The setting items 836 to 840 in the illustrated setting area 835 have the same meanings, and thus descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0093] Setting item 867 is used to set whether to check the check value generated according to the serial number rule set in the serial number setting area 852. Figure 11 The details of this setting item are described.

[0094] Next, we will refer to Figures 9AA to 9AE and Figures 9BA to 9BE Describes the example of setting the sequence number check and verification value.

[0095] Figure 9AAAn example of a correct image (reference image) is shown. Image 901 represents page 1, image 902 represents page 2, image 903 represents page 3, and image 904 represents page 4. These images are read sequentially, starting with page 1. Reference numerals 905 to 908 indicate the serial numbers printed on images 901 to 904, respectively. The user sets a serial number inspection area for serial numbers 905 to 908. Conventional technology employs a method of setting an inspection area for each of the front and back sides, reflecting the front side settings on odd-numbered pages and the back side settings on even-numbered pages.

[0096] Regarding serial numbers 905 to 908, Figure 9AB An example of setting in the case of setting a serial number check area for odd-numbered pages is shown, and Figure 9AC An example of setting is shown in the case of setting the serial number check area of ​​the even-numbered page. Figure 9AB The setting example shown. Since the starting number of the sequence number 905 of the odd-numbered page is "001", the starting number is set to "001". Since the sequence number is increased by 2 as the sequence number 905 of the first page is "001" and the sequence number 907 of the third page is "003", the offset indicating the increase / decrease number is set to "2". In addition, since the sequence numbers 905 and 907 of the odd-numbered pages have 3 digits, the number of digits is set to "3". Figure 9AA In the inspection image shown, since the same number does not repeat, the interval is set to "1". Since the sequence number does not repeat, the repeat is set to "1".

[0097] Next, we will describe Figure 9AC The setting example shown in . Since the starting number of the serial number 906 of the even-numbered page is "002", the starting number is set to "002". Since the serial number is increased by 2 as the serial number 906 of the second page is "002" and the serial number 908 of the fourth page is "004", the offset indicating the increase / decrease number is set to "2". In addition, since the serial numbers 906 and 908 of the odd-numbered pages have 3 digits, the number of digits is set to "3". Figure 9AA In the inspection image shown, since the same number does not repeat, the interval is set to "1". Since the sequence number does not repeat, the repeat is set to "1".

[0098] Figure 9AD The inspection control module 524 is shown by receiving Figure 9AB and Figure 9AC The check value table 910 is generated based on the settings in the . Check value table 910 is a table that summarizes the check value information. Page number 911 indicates Figure 9AA The page number in the correct image shown in . The inspection setting number 912 is a number used to distinguish the inspection setting. In the check value table 910, the inspection setting number 1 is used to record Figure 9AB, and record using Checker Setup No. 2 Figure 9AC The starting point coordinates 913 and the end point coordinates 914 are respectively Figure 9AA The coordinates of the inspection area corresponding to the inspection area in the image are represented by a coordinate system in which the upper left end of the image is set to (0, 0), and a rectangular area obtained by connecting the start point coordinates and the end point coordinates is set as the inspection area. The check value 915 is based on Figure 9AB or Figure 9AC The settings shown above generate a check value based on the information of ascending / descending order, starting number, offset, number of digits, interval, and repetition. When performing a sequence number check, this check value is used to perform a data check. Figure 9AB For the odd-numbered page setting shown, first, row 916 is generated. Then, for row 918 with an odd page number, "1" of inspection setting number 912 and the inspection area (starting point coordinates 913 and ending point coordinates 914) are copied, and the newly generated verification value ("3") is recorded in verification value 915.

[0099] Similarly, for Figure 9AC For even-numbered pages, row 917 is generated first, and then the check area is copied for row 919, which has even pages, and the generated check value ("4") is recorded. By setting the sequence number rule in this way, even if a data file such as a CSV file does not exist, a check value can be generated based on the rule.

[0100] Figure 9BA An example of 16-page saddle stitching is shown in which a check area is to be set for each odd-numbered page / even-numbered page in the serial number check.

[0101] In the saddle stitch binding of 16 pages, 4 sheets denoted by reference numerals 930 to 933 are printed. Each sheet undergoes double-sided printing, and the front image is denoted by reference numerals 934, 936, 938, and 940, while the back image is denoted by reference numerals 935, 937, 939, and 941. Page numbers 942 to 957 are arranged at the bottom of each page of the front image and the back image. By focusing on the serial numbers denoted by reference numerals 942, 946, 950, and 954 arranged at the lower left of the front image, the starting number is "016", and the serial number decreases by an offset of "2". Therefore, the serial number of the front image is set as follows Figure 9BB Similarly, by focusing on the serial numbers indicated by reference numerals 943, 947, 951, and 955 arranged at the lower right portion of the front image, the starting number is "001" and the serial numbers increase by an offset of "2". Therefore, the serial number setting is as follows Figure 9BC shown.

[0102] By focusing on the serial numbers indicated by reference numerals 944, 948, 952, and 956 arranged at the lower left of the back image, the starting number is "002" and the serial numbers increase by an offset of "2". Therefore, the serial numbers are set as follows Figure 9BD Similarly, by focusing on the serial numbers indicated by reference numerals 945, 949, 953, and 957 arranged at the lower right portion of the back image, the starting number is "015" and the serial number decreases by an offset of "2". Therefore, the serial number setting is as follows Figure 9BE By comparison Figure 9BB and Figure 9BE , even if the positions of the front and back are the same, the starting number and increase / decrease amount are different, and different inspection settings are required for the front and back.

[0103] However, if you always set the check for each odd / even page, even when using Figure 9AA When printing the correct image shown in the figure on one side, you also need to Figure 9AB Set the odd pages shown and Figure 9AC To cope with this situation, the first embodiment will describe a method of performing check settings for all pages together by using information of simplex / duplex printing in the case of a simplex print job.

[0104] Next, we will refer to Figure 11 The flowchart shown describes Figure 6 The check setting process in step S603 is performed.

[0105] Figure 11 This is for explaining the first embodiment Figure 6 Note that the processing shown in this flowchart is implemented when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and reads out and executes the program deployed to the RAM 303.

[0106] In step S1101, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain the area setting value set by the user. Next, the process proceeds to step S1102, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to determine whether the area setting value obtained in step S1101 includes the serial number check area. If the serial number check area is included, the process proceeds to step S1103. If the serial number check area is not included, the process proceeds to step S1112.

[0107] In step S1103, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to enable the serial number confirmation function. Figure 8ABThe setting item 867 shown in is settable. That is, in the case where at least one or more serial number check areas are set, the radio button of the setting item 867 can be selected. Then, the process proceeds to step S1104, and the CPU 302 determines whether the setting item 867 has been set to confirm the serial number. That is, it is determined whether the radio button of the setting item 867 has been selected. Figure 8AB If it is determined that the radio button of the setting item 867 has been checked to confirm the serial number, the process proceeds to step S1105. If it is determined that the radio button of the setting item 867 has not been checked to not confirm the serial number, the process proceeds to step S1112.

[0108] In step S1105, the CPU 302 acts as a check control module 524 to generate a check value based on the serial number check area setting value. The check value is generated by increasing / decreasing the offset of the setting item 855 by the starting number (starting number) input to the setting item 854. At this time, it is determined whether to increase or decrease the offset of the starting number based on the setting item 853 (ascending or descending). Next, the process enters step S1106, and the CPU 302 acts as a check control module 524 to load the job information sent from the print control device 140. Then, the process enters step S1107, and the CPU 302 acts as a check control module 524 to extract the imposition information of single-sided or double-sided printing from the job information loaded in step S1106, and determine whether the job is a single-sided print job. If the job is a single-sided print job, the process enters step S1111. If the job is a double-sided print job, the process enters step S1108.

[0109] In step S1108, CPU 302 is used as check control module 524, to determine whether the page of having set area is odd page.If it is determined that these pages are odd pages, then process enters step S1109.If it is determined that the page is even page, then process enters step S1110.In step S1109, CPU 302 is used as check control module 524, to copy inspection area on odd page.At this moment, on check value table 910, for odd page, copy check setting number 912 and inspection area (starting point coordinate 913 and end point coordinate 914), and the check value generated in step S1105 is recorded in check value 915.On the other hand, in step S1110, CPU 302 is used as check control module 524, to copy inspection area on even page. At this time, on the check value table 910, the setting number 912 and the check area (starting point coordinates 913 and ending point coordinates 914) are checked for the even-numbered page copy, and the check value generated in step S1105 is recorded in the check value 915. As described above, in the case of a double-sided print job, by performing Figure 9AB The odd-numbered page settings shown are Figure 9ACThe even-numbered page settings shown generate Figure 9AD Check value table 910 is shown.

[0110] In the case of a single-sided print job, in step S1111, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to copy the check area in all pages. In this case, on the check value table 910, the check setting number 912 and the check area (starting point coordinates 913 and ending point coordinates 914) are copied for all pages, and the check value generated in step S1105 is recorded in the check value 915. Therefore, in the case of a single-sided print job, only the check setting number 912 and the check area (starting point coordinates 913 and ending point coordinates 914) are copied for all pages. Figure 9AE The settings shown in can generate the check value table 910.

[0111] In step S1112, the CPU 302 functions as the UI control module 522 to determine whether the check area setting is completed. Figure 8AB . If the OK button 811 is pressed, the check setting is determined to be complete, and the process proceeds to step S1113. If the OK button 811 is not pressed, the process returns to step S1101, and the CPU 302 waits for the check area setting. Thus, in step S1113, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to save the setting values ​​and the check value table 910 set in the check setting screen in the RAM 303, thereby ending the check setting process.

[0112] Next, we will refer to Figure 12 The flowchart shown describes Figure 6 The inspection process in step S604.

[0113] Figure 12 This is for explaining the first embodiment Figure 6 Note that the processing shown in this flowchart is realized when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and reads out and executes the program deployed to the RAM 303.

[0114] In step S1201, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain the check setting value stored in the RAM 303. Next, the process enters step S1202, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain the check value table 910 stored in the RAM 303. Next, the process enters step S1203, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to load the scanned image (check image). At this time, the transfer of the sheet is detected, the sheet is scanned by the image reading unit 310, and the scanned image is stored in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Then, the process enters step S1204, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to update the number of pages loaded. In this example, the number of pages increases by one each time a page is read. The process enters step S1205, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to determine whether the number of pages read exceeds the number of pages to be read. It is assumed that the number of pages to be read is preset by the user in a setting screen (not shown). Alternatively, the number of pages to be read may be received as check job information from the print control device 140. If it is determined that the number of pages to be read has not been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S1206. If the number of pages to be read has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S1209.

[0115] In step S1206, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to perform OCR processing on the serial number check area based on the check value loaded in step S1202 and the scanned image loaded in step S1203, and performs a check check using the recognized character string. During the serial number check, the check value corresponding to the page number updated in step S1204 is read from the check value table 910 for verification. If a print image check area is set, a reference image is compared with the scanned image to detect image defects such as stains. If a data check area is set, the data check area is subjected to a data readability check and a data check check based on the check settings. After the check is completed, processing proceeds to step S1207, and the CPU 302 functions as the UI control module 522 to display the check results on the UI unit 320, and processing then proceeds to step S1208. In step S1208, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to determine whether there is a next page to be read. If the next page is to be read, the process returns to step S1203 to read the next page. On the other hand, if the next page is not to be read, the process proceeds to step S1210.

[0116] If the CPU 302 determines in step S1205 that the number of pages to be read has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S1209, and the CPU 302, acting as the UI control module 522, displays a message screen indicating that the number of pages read has exceeded the number of pages to be read on the UI unit 320, and the process then proceeds to step S1210. In step S1210, the CPU 302 saves the check result in the RAM 303, thereby ending this check.

[0117] As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the case of a single-sided print job, the check setting is repeated for all pages, and the serial number of each page is compared with the generated check value, thereby performing a data check. In this way, an inspection system capable of setting an inspection area for all pages in a single-sided print job can be provided.

[0118] [Second embodiment]

[0119] The first embodiment described above describes a method for automatically switching the inspection area copy method between "each odd-numbered page / even-numbered page" and "all pages together" during the sequence number check based on the single-sided / double-sided printing information in the job information. However, in this method according to the first embodiment, the copy method is determined solely based on the job information, without considering the regularity of the sequence numbers. Therefore, even if you wish to set a check setting for all pages together in a double-sided print job, the "each odd-numbered page / even-numbered page copy" method is determined, and the setting must be made for each odd-numbered page / even-numbered page.

[0120] In order to cope with this situation, in the second embodiment, a method for selecting the check area copy method in the case of a double-sided print job will be described. In the second embodiment, the following will describe the parts that are different from the first embodiment described above. Please note that the parts that are not described in detail are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0121] Figure 8BA A diagram showing an example of an inspection setting screen in a case where the currently selected setting area is a serial number inspection area in the inspection apparatus 110 according to the second embodiment is depicted. Figure 8AB Common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] Buttons 865 and 866 are used to select the method for copying the inspection area during a duplex print job. Selecting button 865 copies the inspection area using the "each odd page / even page" method, similar to the first embodiment. Selecting button 866, on the other hand, copies the inspection area using the "all pages together" method. For a single-sided print job, buttons 865 and 866 may be grayed out or not displayed. The method selected using button 865 or 866 is stored in RAM 303 as the area setting value.

[0123] Figures 15AA to 15AC A diagram showing an example of data to be checked and set for all pages together in a double-sided print job according to the second embodiment, sequence number settings, and a check value table 910 is depicted.

[0124] Figure 15AA An example of data to be checked and set for all pages is shown. Figure 15AA In the example, two sheets denoted by reference numerals 1500 and 1501 are printed. Each sheet undergoes duplex printing, with the front image denoted by reference numerals 1502 and 1504, and the back image denoted by reference numerals 1503 and 1505. Page numbers 1506 to 1509 are arranged at the bottom of each page. The page numbers have a starting number "001" and increase by an offset of "1". Therefore, in this case, the sequence number setting is as follows Figure 15AB Then, if serial numbers with the same start number and equal increase / decrease amounts are arranged at the same positions on the front / back sides, it is desirable to perform check settings for all pages together even in a duplex print job.

[0125] Figure 14A and Figure 14B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the second embodiment. Figure 14A and Figure 14B In the embodiment described above, Figure 11 The same reference numerals as those in the figure denote the same processing, and their description will be omitted. Note that the processing shown in the flowchart is implemented when the CPU 302 of the inspection device 110 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and reads out and executes the program deployed to the RAM 303.

[0126] If it is determined in step S1107 that the job is not a single-sided print job, the process proceeds to step S1401, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain a copy method from the area setting value obtained in step S1101. The process then proceeds to step S1402, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to determine whether the copy method obtained in step S1101 is the "each odd page / even page" method. If the method is the "each odd page / even page" method, the process proceeds to step S1108. If the method is not the "each odd page / even page" method, that is, if the method is the "all pages together" method, the process proceeds to step S1111.

[0127] Figure 15AC Show the basis Figure 15AA The data shown and Figure 15AB The example of the check value table 910 generated by the serial number setting shown in FIG. Figure 9AD , so their description will be omitted.

[0128] As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to provide an inspection system capable of selecting whether to copy the inspection area for all pages together, for each odd-numbered page, or for each even-numbered page in the case of a double-sided print job.

[0129] [Third embodiment]

[0130] The second embodiment described above describes a method for switching the copy method during the sequence number check based on job information and user selection. However, in the method of the second embodiment, the check area is copied for each odd-numbered or even-numbered page or copied for all pages simultaneously. Therefore, there is no need to copy the check area for intentionally inserted blank pages, eliminating the need to set the check area for pages that do not require sequence number checking.

[0131] The third embodiment will describe a method of not copying the check area in a blank page. In the third embodiment, the following will describe the parts that are different from the first and second embodiments described above. Please note that the parts not described in detail are the same as those in the first and second embodiments.

[0132] Figure 15BA A diagram showing an example of data for explaining the insertion of a blank page according to the third embodiment is depicted. For example, Figure 15BA Shows the case where a blank page is inserted between pages where the book chapter changes. Figure 15BA In the example shown, two sheets denoted by reference numerals 1510 and 1511 are printed. Each sheet undergoes duplex printing, and the front image is denoted by reference numerals 1512 and 1514, while the back image is denoted by reference numerals 1513 and 1515. Page numbers 1516, 1517, and 1519 are arranged at the center of the lower portion of the first, second, and fourth non-blank pages, respectively. The page numbers have a starting number of "001" and are incremented by an offset of "1." Therefore, in this case, the sequence number setting is as follows: Figure 15BB In such intentionally inserted blank pages, the serial number check area is not copied.

[0133] Next, we will refer to Figure 16A and Figure 16B The flowchart shown in describes the check setting process in step S603 according to the third embodiment.

[0134] Figure 16A and Figure 16B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the third embodiment. Figure 16A and Figure 16B In the embodiment according to the first embodiment Figure 11 and according to the second embodiment Figure 14A and Figure 14B The same reference numerals in the flowchart denote the same processing, and description thereof will be omitted. Note that the processing shown in the flowchart is implemented when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and reads out and executes the program deployed to the RAM 303.

[0135] If copying of the check area is complete in steps S1111, S1109, or S1110, processing proceeds to step S1601, and the CPU 302, acting as the check control module 524, extracts a sequence check area from the check value table 910. Processing then proceeds to step S1602, and the CPU 302, acting as the check control module 524, determines whether the page to which the sequence check area extracted in step S1601 is set is a blank page. This can be determined by confirming bitmap data of a reference image or by including the page number of the blank page in the job information transmitted by the print control device 140. If the page is determined to be a blank page in step S1602, processing proceeds to step S1603. If the page is determined not to be a blank page in step S1602, processing proceeds to step S1604. In step S1603, the CPU 302, acting as the check control module 524, deletes the sequence check area extracted from the blank page. More specifically, the row corresponding to the blank page in the check value table 910 is deleted. The process then proceeds to step S1604, and the CPU 302, acting as the check control module 524, determines whether the extraction of all the serial number check areas has been completed. If it is determined that the extraction of all the serial number check areas has been completed, the process proceeds to step S1112. If it is determined that the extraction of all the serial number check areas has not been completed, the process returns to step S1601.

[0136] Figure 15BC Show the basis Figure 15BA The data shown and Figure 15BB An example of a check value table 1520 generated based on the settings shown in FIG. Figure 9AD In contrast, it can be understood that the row 918 corresponding to the page number 3 which is a blank page is deleted by the processing in step S1603.

[0137] As described above, according to the third embodiment, it is possible to provide an inspection system capable of omitting inspection of pages that do not require serial number inspection by excluding blank pages from the targets of serial number inspection.

[0138] [Fourth embodiment]

[0139] The third embodiment described above does not copy the check area in blank pages. However, in the method of the third embodiment, the check area does not need to be copied in non-blank pages where serial numbers are intentionally not arranged, and pages that do not require serial number checking do not need to be checked.

[0140] The fourth embodiment will describe a method for not duplicating the inspection area in a page where a serial number is intentionally not arranged. In the fourth embodiment, the following will describe the parts that differ from the first to third embodiments described above. Please note that the parts not described in detail are the same as those in the first to third embodiments.

[0141] Figure 8BB A diagram showing an example of an inspection setting screen in a case where the currently selected setting area is a serial number inspection area in the inspection apparatus 110 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 8BA Common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0142] Setting item 870 is an item for setting numbers to be excluded from the sequence number. The number entered in item 870 is excluded from the sequence number. Multiple numbers can be entered for this item. When entering multiple numbers, separate them with commas (,) and enter them. The number entered in setting item 870 is saved as the locale setting value.

[0143] Figures 15CA to 15CC Depicted are diagrams showing examples of data in which serial numbers are intentionally not arranged when check setting is to be performed on all pages together in a double-sided print job according to the fourth embodiment, serial number settings, and a check value table.

[0144] Figure 15CA An example of data where sequence numbers are intentionally not arranged is shown. For example, Figure 15CA Shows a situation where only pictures are printed on the entire page (e.g., a double-page spread of a novel), and page numbers are not printed on the pages that only include pictures. Figure 15CA In the example, three sheets denoted by reference numerals 1530, 1531, and 1532 are printed. Each sheet undergoes duplex printing, and the front image is denoted by reference numerals 1533, 1535, and 1537, while the back image is denoted by reference numerals 1534, 1536, and 1538. Page numbers 1539, 1540, 1541, and 1542 are arranged at the center of the lower portion of the first, second, fourth, and sixth pages, respectively. The page numbers start with "001," increase by an offset of "1," and refer to Figure 8BB , the excluded numbers are "003" and "005". Therefore, in this case, the sequence number setting is as follows Figure 15CB It is desired to exclude pages that are intentionally not numbered from the sequence number check.

[0145] Next, we will refer to Figure 17A and 17B The flowchart shown in describes the check setting process in step S603 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0146] Figure 17A and Figure 17B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 17A and Figure 17B In the embodiment according to the first embodiment Figure 11 According to the second embodiment Figure 14A and Figure 14B and according to the third embodiment Figure 16A and Figure 16B The same reference numerals denote the same processing, and description thereof will be omitted. Note that the processing shown in this flowchart is implemented when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and reads out and executes the program deployed to the RAM 303.

[0147] If the copying of the check area is completed in steps S1111, S1109, or S1110, the process proceeds to step S1701, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain an exclusion number list from the area setting value obtained in step S1101. If it is determined in step S1602 that the page is not a blank page, the process proceeds to step S1703, and the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain the check value 915 for the serial check area extracted in step S1601. It is then determined whether the check value is included in the exclusion number list obtained in step S1701. If it is determined that the check value is included, the process proceeds to step S1603 to delete the check area. On the other hand, if it is determined that the check value is not included, the process proceeds to step S1604.

[0148] Figure 15CC Show the basis Figure 15CA The data shown and Figure 15CB The example of the collation value table 1543 generated by the serial number setting shown is shown. The exclusion numbers "003" and "005" are deleted from the collation value 915. As a result, only the collation values ​​"001", "002", "004", and "006" are recorded in rows 1544, 1545, 1546, and 1547.

[0149] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to provide a checking system capable of excluding pages that are not blank pages and on which no serial number is arranged from targets of serial number checking.

[0150] [Fifth embodiment]

[0151] The above embodiments up to the fourth embodiment have described a method of creating a check value table and deleting the sequence number check area of ​​pages for which sequence number checking is to be omitted (such as blank pages or pages intentionally not having sequence numbers arranged). However, in the methods according to the embodiments up to the fourth embodiment, after creating the check value table, the specific check area and the check value are deleted. Therefore, it is not necessary to increase or decrease the check value for the excluded pages.

[0152] In order to cope with this situation, the fifth embodiment will describe a method of not increasing / decreasing the check value for the excluded pages. In the fifth embodiment, the following will describe the parts that are different from the first to fourth embodiments described above. Please note that the parts not described in detail are the same as those in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0153] Figure 8C A diagram showing an example of an inspection setting screen in a case where the currently selected setting area is a serial number inspection area in the inspection apparatus 110 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8BB Common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0154] The setting item 871 is an item for setting whether to skip increment / decrement of the collation value (serial number) for a page without a check area or a page including a serial number to be excluded. The content set in the setting item 871 is saved in the RAM 303 as an area setting value.

[0155] Figures 15DA to 15DC Depicted are diagrams showing examples of data for setting whether to skip increment / decrement of collation values ​​(serial numbers) for excluded pages when check setting is performed for all pages together in a duplex print job according to the fifth embodiment, serial number settings, and a collation value table.

[0156] Figure 15DA This shows an example of data in which the check value is not increased or decreased for excluded pages. For example, Figure 15DA A case is shown where it is desired to sort direct mail printed with an ID by inserting an insert sheet for every 10 sheets. In this case, 21 sheets are printed, which include sheets indicated by reference numerals 1550, 1551, 1552, 1553, and 1554 and sheets not shown (the 2nd to 9th and 13th to 19th sheets not shown). Each sheet undergoes single-sided printing, and IDs 1555, 1556, 1557, and 1558 are arranged at the center of the lower portion. In order to sort IDs 001 to 010 and IDs 011 to 020, a blank insert sheet is inserted as sheet 11 corresponding to sheet 1552. The ID has a starting number "001" and increases by an offset of "1." Therefore, in this case, the sequence number is set as follows Figure 15DBAs described above, for the inserted blank sheet (sheet 11), it is set not to increase the ID.

[0157] Figure 18A and Figure 18B is a flowchart for explaining the check setting process in step S603 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 18A and Figure 18B In the embodiment according to the first embodiment Figure 11 According to the second embodiment Figure 14A and Figure 14B According to the third embodiment Figure 16A and Figure 16B and according to the fourth embodiment Figure 17A and 17B The same reference numerals denote the same processing, and description thereof will be omitted. Note that the processing shown in this flowchart is implemented when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 deploys the program stored in the ROM 304 to the RAM 303 and reads out and executes the program deployed to the RAM 303.

[0158] If it is determined in step S1602 that the page is a blank page or it is determined in step S1702 that the collation value matches the excluded number, the process proceeds to step S1801. In step S1801, the CPU 302 functions as the check control module 524 to obtain the area setting value obtained in step S1101. Figure 8C The check value increase / decrease skip setting set in the setting item 871 shown is selected, and it is determined whether the increase / decrease skip setting is ON. If the increase / decrease skip setting is ON, that is, the setting item 871 has been selected, the processing enters step S1802. If the increase / decrease skip setting is OFF, that is, the setting item 871 is not selected, the processing enters step S1603. In step S1802, the CPU 302 acts as a check control module 524 to shift the check value from the row of the extracted serial number check area downward in the check value table. That is, the check value of the blank page is assigned to the next page, and the check values ​​of the pages after the page are shifted and assigned in sequence.

[0159] The check value table before the processing in step S1802 is Figure 15DC The check value table 1561 shown in FIG. 1561 is assigned the check value "011" to the row of page number 11. If the check area of ​​page number 11 is extracted in step S1601, it is determined in step S1602 that the page is a blank page, and the process proceeds to step S1802, where the check values ​​are sequentially shifted downward starting from the page of page number 11. As a result, the check value "011" is obtained. Figure 15CCSince the row of page number 11 is deleted in step S1603, the final result is Figure 15CC As shown in the check value table 1560. Figure 15DB As shown, by setting the number "011" corresponding to page number 11 as the excluded number, it is determined in step S1702 that the check value matches the excluded number, thereby obtaining Figure 15CC Check value table 1560 is shown.

[0160] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to provide a checking system capable of selecting whether to exclude the collation value of a page to be excluded and whether to shift the collation value to the subsequent page.

[0161] Various examples and embodiments have been described above, but the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions in this specification. For example, the image forming apparatus 100 may include a print control device 140 .

[0162] Other embodiments

[0163] The embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by the following method, that is, software (including computer program products of computer programs / instructions) that perform the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is provided to a system or device through a network or various storage media, and a computer (central processing unit (CPU), microprocessing unit (MPU)) of the system or device reads and executes the computer program / instructions.

[0164] While the present disclosure includes exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An inspection system comprising: Image forming device and inspection device, The image forming apparatus is configured to generate printed material based on a print job including print data and imposition information, and The inspection device comprises: an obtaining unit configured to obtain a scanned image of a printed material by receiving and reading the printed material; An inspection setting unit, configured to perform inspection setting on a reference image; an inspection section for inspecting by comparing the scanned image with a reference image; and a control section for controlling, when the inspection setting includes a serial number inspection for inspecting serial numbers that are consecutive numbers and the imposition information indicates single-sided printing, to copy the inspection area set in the inspection setting for all pages; When the serial number check is set, the check unit performs a data check to compare the serial number set in the check setting with the check value.

2. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein: In a case where the inspection setting includes serial number inspection and the imposition information indicates double-sided printing, the control section copies the inspection area set in the inspection setting for each odd-numbered page or for each even-numbered page.

3. The inspection system according to claim 1, further comprising: A selection section for selecting whether to copy the inspection area for each odd-numbered page, for each even-numbered page, or for all pages when the inspection setting includes serial number inspection and the imposition information indicates double-sided printing.

4. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein: The control section further determines whether the page to which the check area is to be copied is a blank page, and controls not to copy the check area in the blank page if it is determined that the page is a blank page.

5. The inspection system according to claim 1, further comprising: An exclusion sequence number setting unit is used to set sequence numbers to be excluded from the sequence number in the sequence number check, The control unit performs control so as not to copy the inspection area in the page corresponding to the verification value matching the serial number to be excluded.

6. The inspection system according to claim 1, further comprising: The setting unit is configured to set to skip incrementing / decrementing the sequence number when there is a page that is not a target of the sequence number check in the print job. In which, when the setting unit is set to skip increasing / decreasing the sequence number, the control unit controls to assign the verification value corresponding to the page that does not include the inspection area to the page after the page, and sequentially shifts and assigns the verification values ​​from the page after the page.

7. The inspection system according to claim 5, wherein: The page that is not the target of the sequence number check is one of: a page corresponding to a collation value matching a sequence number set as a sequence number to be excluded from the sequence number in the sequence number check; and a page that does not include a check area.

8. An inspection device comprising: an obtaining section for obtaining a scanned image of a printed material by receiving and reading a printed material generated according to a print job including print data and imposition information; An inspection setting unit, configured to perform inspection setting on a reference image; an inspection section for inspecting by comparing the scanned image with a reference image; and a control section for controlling, when the inspection setting includes a serial number inspection for inspecting serial numbers that are consecutive numbers and the imposition information indicates single-sided printing, to copy the inspection area set in the inspection setting for all pages; When the serial number check is set, the check unit performs a data check to compare the serial number set in the check setting with the check value.

9. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein: In a case where the inspection setting includes serial number inspection and the imposition information indicates double-sided printing, the control section copies the inspection area set in the inspection setting for each odd-numbered page or for each even-numbered page.

10. The inspection device according to claim 8, further comprising: A selection section for selecting whether to copy the inspection area for each odd-numbered page, for each even-numbered page, or for all pages when the inspection setting includes serial number inspection and the imposition information indicates double-sided printing.

11. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein: The control section further determines whether the page to which the check area is to be copied is a blank page, and controls not to copy the check area in the blank page if it is determined that the page is a blank page.

12. The inspection device according to claim 8, further comprising: An exclusion sequence number setting unit is used to set sequence numbers to be excluded from the sequence number in the sequence number check, The control unit performs control so as not to copy the inspection area in the page corresponding to the verification value matching the serial number to be excluded.

13. The inspection device according to claim 8, further comprising: The setting unit is configured to set to skip incrementing / decrementing the sequence number when there is a page that is not a target of the sequence number check in the print job. In which, when the setting unit is set to skip increasing / decreasing the sequence number, the control unit controls to assign the verification value corresponding to the page that does not include the inspection area to the page after the page, and sequentially shifts and assigns the verification values ​​from the page after the page.

14. The inspection device according to claim 12, wherein: The page that is not the target of the sequence number check is one of: a page corresponding to a collation value matching a sequence number set as a sequence number to be excluded from the sequence number in the sequence number check; and a page that does not include a check area.

15. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein The check setting includes at least: an area for printing the serial number, information indicating whether the serial number is in ascending or descending order, a starting number of the serial number, and an offset as an increase or decrease value of the serial number.

16. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein: The control section creates and stores a check value table including check values ​​corresponding to the respective pages based on the check setting.

17. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein: The data verification check includes optical character recognition of an area in the scanned image where the serial number is printed, and checking whether the serial number obtained through the optical character recognition matches a verification value.

18. A method for controlling an inspection device, comprising: obtaining a scanned image of a printed material by receiving and reading a printed material generated according to a print job including print data and imposition information; Check and set the reference image; Checking is performed by comparing the scanned image with a reference image; as well as In a case where the check setting includes a serial number check for checking serial numbers that are consecutive numbers and the imposition information indicates single-sided printing, control is performed to copy the check area set in the check setting for all pages, When performing the inspection, if the serial number check is set, a data verification check is performed to compare the serial number set in the inspection setting with the verification value.

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