Image forming system

Abstract

Disclosed is an image forming system including: an image forming member configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading member configured to read an image formed on the sheet; a setting section configured to set an inspection condition for inspecting the image read by the reading section; an inspection section configured to perform inspection of a reading result of the image read by the reading section according to the inspection condition set by the setting section; a display section configured to display an inspection result obtained by the inspection section; and a control section configured to control the display section to display a message for urging the user to check the inspection setting in a case where the inspection result for the first sheet obtained by the inspection section indicates an abnormality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming system having a print inspection function that performs quality inspection of an image printed on a sheet. Background Art

[0002] An image forming device generates printed products by printing an image on a sheet based on image data representing the image to be printed. In particular, image forming devices used in commercial printing locations can print a large number of copies or pages at a time. US2021 / 0365219 A1 discloses a technique for performing a test print for printing only specific pages before the main print.

[0003] The print inspection device inspects whether the image printed on a sheet by the image forming device is formed as indicated by the image data. In this inspection, the image data is set as reference data, and scan data obtained by reading the image printed on the sheet using a sensor such as a scanner is set as inspection image data. The image data and the scan data are then compared with each other. The print inspection device determines the print quality of the printed product based on the degree of agreement between the reference data and the inspection image data.

[0004] In a print inspection device, a print inspection is performed based on inspection settings pre-set by the user (such as the inspection area and inspection intensity). However, if the items of the inspection settings provided by the user are incorrect (different from what the user originally intended), the inspection result may be determined to be abnormal (inspection failure). In this case, even if printing is performed again in recovery printing, inspection failure will occur again, resulting in wasteful consumption of sheets.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-053819 determines whether the data read during printing is blank for the inspection setting area set by the user. Blank data refers to a situation where no image is formed in the inspection area. If the data is blank, the user is notified of an error in the inspection setting. Furthermore, if the read data is not blank and a barcode image is formed in the inspection area but the read barcode cannot be decoded, there is a high probability of a printing failure, so recovery printing is performed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An image forming system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an image forming component, which is configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading component, which is configured to read the image formed on the sheet; a setting component, which is configured to set an inspection condition for inspecting the image read by the reading component; an inspection component, which is configured to perform an inspection of a reading result of the image read by the reading component according to the inspection condition set by the setting component; a display component, which is configured to display the inspection result obtained by the inspection component; and a control component, which is configured to control the display component to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection setting when the inspection result for the first sheet obtained by the inspection component indicates an abnormality.

[0007] An image forming system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an image forming component, which is configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading component, which is configured to read the image formed on the sheet; a setting component, which is configured to set inspection conditions for inspecting the image read by the reading component; an inspection component, which is configured to perform inspection of the reading result of the image read by the reading component according to the inspection conditions set by the setting component; a display component, which is configured to display the inspection result obtained by the inspection component; and a control component, which is configured to control the display component to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection settings when the inspection result of the image formed as a first copy obtained by the inspection component indicates an abnormality.

[0008] An image forming system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an image forming component, which is configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading component, which is configured to read the image formed on the sheet; a setting component, which is configured to set inspection conditions for inspecting the image read by the reading component; an inspection component, which is configured to perform inspection of the reading result of the image read by the reading component according to the inspection conditions set by the setting component; a display component, which is configured to display the inspection result obtained by the inspection component; and a control component, which is configured to perform main printing using the image forming component in response to an instruction to perform main printing, and to perform test printing using the image forming component in response to an instruction to perform test printing, wherein the control component is configured to control the display component to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection settings when the inspection result indicates an abnormality when the test printing is performed.

[0009] 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

[0010] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram of an image forming system.

[0011] Figure 2 This is the configuration diagram of the controller.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram to check the configuration of the controller.

[0013] Figure 4 This is an illustration of the operation screen.

[0014] Figure 5 This is an illustration of the inspection settings screen.

[0015] Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B and Figure 6C Each diagram is an explanatory diagram of an example of a check setting error.

[0016] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Each of them is an explanatory diagram of an operation screen when performing an inspection.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the main print check process.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the test print inspection process.

[0019] Figure 10 It is an explanatory diagram of an operation screen when performing an inspection in the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 11 is a flowchart of the test print inspection process in the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 is a flowchart of a test print inspection process in the third embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Now, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments may be freely combined. In addition, these embodiments and their modifications do not limit the present disclosure according to the appended claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessary for the solution of the present disclosure.

[0023] <First embodiment>

[0024] <Printing System Configuration>

[0025] Figure 11 is a configuration diagram of an image forming system including a print inspection device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The image forming system 1 includes an operating device 200, a printer 300 serving as an image forming unit, a controller 400, an inspection device 500 serving as an image inspector, a stacker 600, and a finisher 700 serving as a post-processor. The operating device 200 is a user interface provided with an input interface and an output interface. The input interface is, for example, an input key and a touch panel. The output interface is, for example, a display and a speaker. Therefore, the operating device 200 serves as a component for presenting information visually and auditorily. The operating device 200 transmits instructions and data that have been input from the input interface to the controller 400. In addition, the operating device 200 outputs information from the output interface in response to instructions received from the controller 400.

[0026] The controller 400 controls the operation of the printer 300, the inspection device 500, the stacker 600, and the finisher 700 based on instructions and data input from the operating device 200 or instructions and data acquired from an external device via a network. For example, in order to perform image formation, the controller 400 transmits an instruction for image formation to the printer 300. Details of the controller 400 will be described later.

[0027] <Printer>

[0028] The printer 300 in the first embodiment is a color image forming device that prints color images on sheets and serves as a printing component. The printer 300 includes image forming units Y, M, C, and K, an intermediate transfer member 306, a transfer unit 307, a fixing device 308, sheet feed cassettes 311 and 312, and a sheet feeding mechanism. Image forming unit Y forms an image of yellow (Y). Image forming unit M forms an image of magenta (M). Image forming unit C forms an image of cyan (C). Image forming unit K forms an image of black (K). The images of each color formed by image forming units Y, M, C, and K are transferred to the intermediate transfer member 306 in an overlapping manner. The transfer unit 307 transfers the image carried on the intermediate transfer member 306 to the sheet. The fixing device 308 fixes the image transferred to the sheet to the sheet. Each image forming unit Y, M, C, and K has the same configuration and forms images through the same operation. The following description is directed to the configuration of the image forming unit Y, and descriptions of the configurations of the image forming units M, C, and K are omitted.

[0029] Image forming unit Y includes a photosensitive drum 301Y, a charger 302Y, an exposure device 303Y, and a developing device 304Y. The photosensitive drum 301Y is a drum-shaped photosensitive member having a photosensitive layer on its surface. During operation, the photosensitive drum 301Y rotates about a drum axis in the direction indicated by arrow R. The charger 302Y uniformly charges the surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 301Y. The exposure device 303Y acquires image data representing a yellow image from the controller 400 and emits and outputs a laser beam based on the image data. The laser beam output from the exposure device 303Y scans the charged surface of the photosensitive drum 301Y in the direction of the drum axis.

[0030] Laser light scans the surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 301Y, forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to yellow image data on the surface of the photosensitive drum 301Y. The developing device 304Y stores yellow developer (e.g., toner) and uses the developer to develop the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 301Y. Consequently, a yellow image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 301Y. The developing device 304Y is configured so that developer can be continuously supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown).

[0031] In the same manner, a magenta image is formed on the photosensitive drum 301M of the image forming unit M. A cyan image is formed on the photosensitive drum 301C of the image forming unit C. A black image is formed on the photosensitive drum 301K of the image forming unit K. The intermediate transfer member 306 is an endless belt member and is formed on the intermediate transfer member 306. Figure 1 The intermediate transfer member 306 rotates clockwise. The intermediate transfer member 306 contacts the photosensitive drums 301Y, 301M, 301C, and 301K. As the intermediate transfer member 306 rotates, the images of the respective colors are sequentially transferred from the photosensitive drums 301Y, 301M, 301C, and 301K, thereby being superimposed on one another. Thus, a full-color image is formed on the intermediate transfer member 306. As the intermediate transfer member 306 rotates, the full-color image carried thereon is conveyed to the transfer unit 307.

[0032] Sheets are stored in each of sheet feed cassettes 311 and 312 and conveyed from the sheet feed cassettes 311 and 312 to the transfer unit 307 by a feeding mechanism. The sheets are conveyed according to the timing at which the image carried on the intermediate transfer member 306 is conveyed to the transfer unit 307. The transfer unit 307 transfers the image from the intermediate transfer member 306 onto the sheet. A cleaner 309 is arranged on the downstream side of the transfer unit 307 in the rotational direction of the intermediate transfer member 306. The cleaner 309 removes the developer remaining on the intermediate transfer member 306 after the transfer.

[0033] The sheet to which the image has been transferred is conveyed from the transfer unit 307 to the fixing device 308. The fixing device 308 includes a heater and a pressure roller. The fixing device 308 uses heat from the heater and pressure from the pressure roller to melt the image and fix the image to the sheet.

[0034] On the downstream side of the fixing device 308 in the conveying direction of the sheet, conveying paths 313, 314, and 315, a two-sided conveying path 316, and an ejection roller 317 are provided. The sheet that has passed through the fixing device 308 is temporarily conveyed from the conveying path 313 to the conveying path 314. After the trailing end of the sheet has passed through the conveying path 313, the conveying direction is reversed to convey the sheet from the conveying path 315 to the ejection roller 317. With this conveyance, the sheet is ejected from the printer 300 by the ejection roller 317 with the image-formed surface facing downward (face down). The printed product, which is the sheet that has undergone image formation and is ejected from the printer 300 by the ejection roller 317, is delivered to the inspection device 500.

[0035] To perform duplex printing on a sheet, the sheet conveyed to conveyor path 314, after its trailing end has passed through conveyor path 313, is conveyed to duplex conveyor path 316. The sheet is conveyed again to transfer unit 307 via duplex conveyor path 316. Passing through duplex conveyor path 316, the side of the sheet with the image formed on it is reversed. The reversed side of the sheet undergoes image transfer processing by transfer unit 307 and fixing processing by fixing device 308, resulting in an image being formed on that side. The sheet, with images formed on both sides, is ejected from printer 300 as a printed product via ejection rollers 317 and delivered to inspection device 500.

[0036] <Print Inspection Device>

[0037] The inspection device 500 includes a transport path 501, an inspection controller 510, a first reader 5051a, a second reader 5051b, flow reading glasses 5053a and 5053b, transport rollers 502 and 503 serving as transport components, and a sheet detection sensor 504. Under the control of the controller 400, the inspection controller 510 controls the operation of the inspection device 500. The details of the inspection controller 510 will be described later. The first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b are arranged at positions opposite to each other across the transport path 501. The transport rollers 502 and 503 transport printed matter.

[0038] The inspection device 500 detects printed matter conveyed along the conveyor path 501 using a sheet detection sensor 504, and reads the printed image using a first reader 5051a and a second reader 5051b. The first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b transmit the results of the printed matter reading to the inspection controller 510. The inspection controller 510 performs a quality inspection of the image printed on the printed matter based on the results of the printed matter reading. The first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b are arranged opposite each other across the conveyor path 501, thereby reading the images printed on both sides of the printed matter during a single conveyance of the printed matter. The printed matter, after the images have been read, is conveyed from the inspection device 500 to the stacker 600.

[0039] <Stacker and Finisher>

[0040] The stacker 600 includes a large capacity tray 610 and a waste sheet output tray 620. The stacker 600 discharges printed products to any one of the large capacity tray 610, the finisher 700, and the waste sheet output tray 620 based on instructions received from the controller 400 and the result of quality inspection performed by the inspection controller 510.

[0041] The finisher 700 includes a printed matter conveyor 710 including a plurality of conveyor rollers and a conveying path, an upper delivery tray 701, an intermediate delivery tray 702, and a lower delivery tray 703. The printed matter conveyor 710 includes switching mechanisms 711 and 712 for switching the discharge destination of the printed matter. The finisher 700 sequentially receives printed matter from the stacker 600 and discharges each printed matter to one of the upper delivery tray 701, the intermediate delivery tray 702, and the lower delivery tray 703 in response to instructions received from the controller 400. The finisher 700 can be configured to perform post-processing such as binding and stapling of multiple printed matter, bookbinding of the bound printed matter, and cutting of the bound printed matter.

[0042] <controller>

[0043] Figure 24306, a power supply control I / F 4308, a checker I / F 4317, a printer communication I / F 4307, and a printer I / F 4316. The controller 400 also includes a communication I / F 4305 for communicating with an external device via a network. A storage device I / F 4318 , an operation device I / F 4306 , a power control I / F 4308 , a checker I / F 4317 , a printer communication I / F 4307 , and a communication I / F 4305 are connected to a system bus 4319 .

[0044] The controller 400 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 4301, a read-only memory (ROM) 4302, and a random access memory (RAM) 4303. The CPU 4301 executes a computer program stored in the ROM 4302 to control the operation of the image forming system 1. The RAM 4303 provides a work area for the CPU 4301 to perform processing. The RAM 4303 also serves as an image memory for temporarily storing image data, etc. The CPU 4301, ROM 4302, and RAM 4303 are also connected to the system bus 4319. The non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) 4304 and the timer 4309 are also connected to the system bus 4319. The NVRAM 4304 stores various parameters used for control. The timer 4309 keeps the current time and monitors the passage of a set time period.

[0045] The operating device I / F 4306 controls communication with the operating device 200. The operating device I / F 4306 receives input of print jobs, commands, and print settings from the operating device 200 to the controller 400 and transmits the input information to the CPU 4301. Under the control of the CPU 4301, the operating device I / F 4306 displays the status of the image forming system 1 and various screens on the display of the operating device 200. Under the control of the CPU 4301, the printer communication I / F 4307 controls communication with the printer 300. The power supply control I / F 4308 instructs the power supply controller 4500 to supply or stop various types of power based on commands received from the CPU 4301. The power supply controller 4500 supplies power to the printer 300. Under the control of the CPU 4301, the inspector I / F 4317 controls communication with the inspection device 500. Under the control of the CPU 4301, the storage device I / F 4318 controls communication with the storage device 4100.

[0046] The communication I / F 4305 is connected to a network such as a local area network (LAN) and performs communication control such as sending and receiving e-mails and inputting and outputting PDL data from an external device. The communication I / F 4305 also includes an NVRAM (not shown) and stores various parameters related to communication control, such as a MAC address.

[0047] The system bus 4319 is connected to the image bus 4311 via the image bus I / F 4310. The image bus I / F 4310 is a bridge that connects the system bus 4319 and the image bus 4311 for transferring image data to the printer 300. A printer I / F 4316, an image compressor 4312, an image rotator 4313, and a raster image processor (RIP) 4314 are connected to the image bus 4311.

[0048] The image compressor 4312 performs compression and decompression processing of JPEG, JBIG, MMR, MH, etc. The image rotator 4313 performs image rotation processing. The RIP 4314 expands the PDL code into a bitmap raster image. The printer I / F 4316 transmits image data to the printer 300. This image data is generated by the controller 400 subjecting the image data for printout to image processing for the printer 300 (such as correction and resolution conversion for the printer 300).

[0049] <Check Controller>

[0050] Figure 31 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the inspection controller 510 provided to the inspection apparatus 500. The inspection controller 510 controls the operation of the first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b. The inspection controller 510 performs processes such as analysis of the reading results from the first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b, operation control of the inspection apparatus 500, and communication with the controller 400. The inspection controller 510 is also connected to the storage device 5011, which is a storage component for storing offset correction profiles and the like, and the controller 400.

[0051] The inspection controller 510 includes a CPU 5001, a ROM 5002, a RAM 5003, a storage device I / F 5004, a motor controller 5009, a read image processor 5008, an image processor 5006, an RTC 5012, a host I / F 5007, and a sensor controller 5010. Each component is connected to a system bus 5005. The read image processor 5008 is connected to a first reader 5051a via a first read I / F 5052a and to a second reader 5051b via a second read I / F 5052b. The RTC 5012 is a real-time clock that maintains the current time with high precision.

[0052] The host I / F 5007 controls communication with the inspector I / F 4317 of the controller 400. When the inspection controller 510 and the controller 400 communicate with each other, data is transmitted and received between the host I / F 5007 and the inspector I / F 4317. For example, the host I / F 5007 obtains image data from the controller 400 for image forming operations of the printer 300. The storage device 5011 is a large-capacity storage device such as an HDD or SSD. The image data can be stored in any location, but in the first embodiment, it is stored in the storage device 5011.

[0053] The CPU 5001 executes a computer program stored in the ROM 5002 to control the operation of the inspection apparatus 500. The RAM 5003 provides a work area for the CPU 5001 to perform processing. The storage device I / F 5004 controls communication with the storage device 5011 connected to the inspection controller 510.

[0054] The read image processor 5008 is controlled by the CPU 5001 to obtain the results of reading the image on the printed matter from the first reader 5051a via the first read I / F 5052a. The read image processor 5008 is also controlled by the CPU 5001 to obtain the results of reading the image on the printed matter from the second reader 5051b via the second read I / F 5052b. Under the control of the CPU 5001, the read image processor 5008 performs amplification processing, gamma correction processing, and the like on the read results (read data) of the printed matter obtained from the first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b to generate read image data, and stores the read image data in the RAM 5003. The first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b are each provided with a sensor array and are each capable of reading the entire area of ​​the printed matter conveyed on the conveyance path 501. The first reader 5051a reads the image on the first side of the printed matter, and the second reader 5051b reads the image on the second side of the printed matter.

[0055] The first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b are each composed of a light emitter and a light receiver. The light emitter is formed by, for example, a white light emitting diode (LED), and the light receiver is formed by, for example, a CMOS sensor equipped with an RGB color filter. The light emitter is controlled by the CPU 5001 to illuminate the printed matter transmitted along the transmission path 501 with light. The light receiver receives light by separating the light reflected by the printed matter into the three color components of RGB using a color filter and outputs read data as a light reception result (read result). The read data is transmitted to the read image processor 5008.

[0056] Under the control of CPU 5001, motor controller 5009 controls the operation of various motors provided in inspection device 500. Under the control of CPU 5001, sensor controller 5010 controls the operation of various sensors provided in inspection device 500 and notifies CPU 5001 of detection results from the sensors. Image processor 5006 is controlled by CPU 5001 to compare image data stored in storage device 5011 (hereinafter referred to as "reference image data") with read image data stored in RAM 5003, thereby performing a quality inspection of printed products. Reference image data is image data used by printer 300 to form an image and is stored in storage device 5011. In another embodiment, the reference image data may be an image obtained by pre-reading a reference image before performing a quality inspection. During the comparison, image processor 5006 subjects the reference image data to a correction process using calibration-based parameters, which will be described later.

[0057] <Print Settings>

[0058] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram of an operation screen displayed on the display of the operating device 200 for instructing the printer 300 to execute printing. The operation screen serves as an information presentation screen for presenting information such as print settings. This operation screen also serves as a receiving component for receiving user operations such as starting printing. The user causes the printer 300 to execute printing by using this operation screen displayed on the display. Figure 4 Indicates a state in which the selection of color or monochrome is set to automatic selection, box 1 is selected as the box to be used, A4 is selected as the sheet size, thick paper 2 is selected as the type of paper, and 10 copies is selected as the number of copies to be printed. Buttons B101 to B104 are buttons for providing various print settings. Button B101 is a button for selecting the color (color or monochrome) to be printed, and button B102 is a button for selecting the printing side (single-sided printing or double-sided printing). Button B103 is a sheet selection button for selecting the type of sheet, and button B104 is a delivery selection button for setting, for example, the discharge destination of the printed product. In addition, the number of copies to be printed can be set by using a numeric keypad (not shown). Button B105 is a print start button serving as a first receiving component, and when button B105 is pressed, printing starts with the print settings provided by buttons B101 to B104 and the number of copies set by the numeric keypad, i.e., main printing starts. Button B106 is a test print start button serving as a second receiving unit, and when button B106 is pressed, only one copy of the first page is printed using the print settings provided by buttons B101 to B104. Button B107 is a cancel button, and when pressed, the settings entered by the user are canceled, and an initial screen (not shown) is displayed on the display of the operating device 200.

[0059] In the first and second embodiments of the present disclosure, printing some of the pages specified in the operation screen (for example, only one page) instead of printing them as they are is described as test printing, and printing the specified number of pages is referred to as main printing. However, even when all pages are to be printed, for example, printing fewer copies than the specified number of copies to be printed (for example, printing only one copy when multiple copies are requested) in order to verify the print results can also be included in "test printing." In addition, printing a number of pages or copies different from the specified number of pages or the specified number of copies for a certain purpose such as verifying the print results can also be included in "test printing."

[0060] The image processor 5006 of the inspection device 500 performs inspection of printed materials according to the preset inspection settings. The central processing unit (CPU) 4301 of the controller 400 serves as a control unit. Regardless of which of the buttons B105 and B106 is pressed, the CPU 4301 controls the printer 300 to print an image on a sheet and controls the inspection device 500 to perform inspection of printed materials according to the preset inspection settings. Pressing the button B107 cancels the previously entered settings as described above.

[0061] Figure 4 The print setting screen shown in can display check boxes in a selectable manner, for example. A check box is provided to select whether to perform an inspection. For example, the user (operator) touches a check box on the operation screen to check the check box and further uncheck the check box. In the case where the button B105 (or B106) is pressed while the above check box is checked, the CPU 4301 controls the printer 300 to print an image on a sheet and controls the inspection device 500 to perform an inspection of the printed product (the image printed on the sheet). At the same time, in the case where the button B105 (or B106) is pressed while the above check box is not checked, the CPU 4301 controls the printer 300 to print an image on a sheet without performing an inspection by the inspection device 500.

[0062] <Check settings>

[0063] Figure 5 : is an explanatory diagram of an inspection setting screen for providing inspection settings of the inspection apparatus 500. Inspection settings include inspection conditions. Figure 5 In the inspection setting, a plurality of setting items are included, each of which affects the determination of whether the inspection result indicates an abnormality. Specifically, the inspection setting includes a key inspection area, a standard inspection area, a character / barcode inspection area, a QR code (trademark) inspection area, and an inspection exclusion area, which will be described later. The inspection setting screen has a function as a receiving component for receiving instructions from the user for setting the inspection area in which the inspection device 500 is to perform inspections such as quality inspections. In Figure 5 In the example, area B401 displays the print image and the inspection setting area, and the inspection area can be freely set using a mouse, touch panel, or the like. In this example, the original image of the print job is displayed in area B401, and areas B411 to B416 are shown as inspection areas. Area B401 and areas B411 to B416 are each rectangular areas, but any shape, such as a triangle, polygon, or circle, can be specified depending on the shape of the area to be inspected.

[0064] Buttons B402 to B406 are buttons for setting the type of the inspection area. The user can set the inspection area by selecting one of the buttons B402 to B406 to set the area in the area B401. Figure 5 , four buttons for setting the inspection area type are illustrated. Button B402 is a key inspection area setting button for setting an area where a high-precision inspection is to be performed, and button B403 is a standard inspection area setting button for setting the overall inspection level. In addition, button B404 is a detailed setting button for providing detailed settings about a variable inspection area as an area where a variable inspection is to be performed. The variable inspection area is an area within the entire printed image in which data to be changed for each page, each copy, or each sheet is embedded, and for example, a number, a barcode, etc. that is different for each sheet is formed in the variable inspection area. Based on whether the information indicated by the reading result of the variable inspection area has consistency in following a predetermined rule, for example, an ascending or descending order of numbers, it can be determined whether there is an abnormality in the image. Figure 5 The example shows a state where the character / barcode inspection area has been selected as a variable inspection area. Therefore, in this example, button B404 is the character / barcode inspection area setting button. Button B405 is the QR code inspection area setting button. Button B406 is the inspection exclusion area setting button for specifying an area not to be inspected.

[0065] exist Figure 5 In the example of , an inspection level setting button may be provided for each inspection area, and the inspection level setting button is used to gradually set the inspection level according to the inspection accuracy, for example, from level 1 to level 5. Specifically, in Figure 5 In the example, button B402a is provided as an inspection level setting button for button B402 which is a focused inspection area. In addition, button B403b is provided as an inspection level setting button for button B403 which is a standard inspection area. This allows the user to set the inspection level for each of the focused inspection area of ​​button B402 and the standard inspection area of ​​button B403. Figure 5 In the example, inspection level 1 has the lowest inspection accuracy, and the inspection accuracy increases as the inspection level number increases. Figure 5 In , inspection level 3 is set as the inspection level for the focused inspection area, and inspection level 2 is set as the inspection level for the standard inspection area. Figure 5 In the example, the check level can be set for each of the buttons B402 and B403, but it is also possible to allow the check level to be similarly set for the buttons B404 to B406.

[0066] Button B407 is a setting completion button, and when the user selects and presses this button, the check setting is completed. Button B408 is a button for returning to the previous screen, and when the user selects this button, the check setting process is canceled to return to the initial screen (not shown). In addition, a dotted rectangle is shown on the left side of button B402, and the key inspection area is visually shown to be represented by a dotted rectangle. In the same way, a solid rectangle is shown on the left side of button B403, and the standard inspection area is shown to be represented by a solid rectangle. A single-point dashed rectangle is shown on the left side of button B404, and the character / barcode inspection area is shown to be represented by a single-point dashed rectangle. A double-line rectangle is shown on the left side of button B405, which is a setting button for the QR code detection area, and the QR code inspection area is shown to be represented by a double-line rectangle. A double-point dashed rectangle is shown on the left side of button B406 for setting the inspection exclusion area, and the inspection exclusion area is shown to be represented by a double-point dashed rectangle within area B401.

[0067] For example, the user can freely select an area to be subjected to focused inspection by selecting the button B402 and selecting the area in the area B401 where focused inspection is desired to be performed using a mouse or the like. Figure 5 In the example, areas B412 and B413, which are areas including faces of people, are both represented by dotted rectangles, and these areas are shown as key inspection areas set by button B402. Area B414 is represented by a solid rectangle, and is shown as a standard inspection area set by button B403. Area B415 is represented by a single-dash rectangle, and is shown as a character / barcode inspection area set by button B404. Area B416 is represented by a double-line rectangle, and is shown as a QR code inspection area set by button B405. Area B411, which is a background area and is not required to be subjected to high-precision inspection, is represented by a double-dash rectangle, and is shown as an inspection exclusion area set by button B406.

[0068] Compared to inspecting the entire image, only the required areas can be selected for inspection, thereby reducing the resources required for inspection, such as the amount of RAM 5003 used by the inspection device 500 and the load and throughput of processing executed by the CPU 5001. Furthermore, by setting the inspection level in steps, for example, from Level 1 to Level 5, the resources of the image forming device required for inspection can be reduced compared to always performing inspections at a high level of inspection accuracy. Furthermore, by setting multiple areas and setting an inspection level for each area, resources can be optimally allocated according to the required level of inspection accuracy.

[0069] <Print Check during Test Printing>

[0070] Test printing is performed to check whether the printed image, the print settings of the printer 300, and the inspection settings of the inspection device 500 are correct. For example, the printed image includes a character string, and the user may want to check whether the printed character string is correct by using the inspection device 500. In this case, it is required to set the inspection device 500 to perform optical character recognition (OCR) processing to recognize an area of ​​the character string (hereinafter referred to as the "inspection area").

[0071] However, if the inspection area is incorrect, the character string cannot be recognized, and the inspection result indicates an abnormality (check NG). If a check NG occurs during the main print, recovery printing is performed normally, but if there is a setting error, check NG occurs repeatedly. This results in wasted paper consumption and increased device downtime. In the first embodiment, when performing test printing, if a check NG occurs, recovery printing is not performed, and a screen prompting the user to check the inspection settings is displayed on the operating device 200.

[0072] Figures 6A to 6C Each is an illustration of the inspection settings. Figure 6A An example of checking that the settings are correct is shown. Figure 6A In the example, a QR code (trademark) B501 is provided in an area B401 used as a print image and a check setting area display portion. In addition, an area B502 is provided so that the QR code B501 is positioned in its inner area and used as a QR code check area. Figure 6A As shown in , area B502 is represented by a double-line rectangle and is set as a QR code inspection area. Figure 6A In the example of , the area B502 is arranged so that the entire QR code B501 is included in its internal area, and the area B502 is set as a QR code inspection area that can read the QR code (trademark). Therefore, in this example, a correct inspection suitable for reading the QR code can be performed.

[0073] Figure 6B This example illustrates an inspection setting error where the inspection setting area is offset. In this example, for QR code B501, although area B502 is set as the QR code inspection area, the position of area B502 is offset, and a portion of QR code B501 protrudes outside area B502. As a result, when performing the inspection, part of the QR code cannot be read, resulting in an inspection failure.

[0074] Figure 6C: This is an example showing an error in the check setting type. In this example, area B503 is arranged so that the entire QR code B501 is included in its internal area. However, area B503 is represented by a single-point dashed rectangle. A single-point dashed rectangle is shown on the left side of button B404, and the character / barcode check area is set as a barcode check area. In addition, area B416 (barcode check area) is set for QR code B501, so a check NG occurs when performing the check.

[0075] If a check NG occurs in the first sheet of the test print, Figure 6B If the inspection setting area shown in the figure is offset from the inspection target range or if Figure 6C There is a case where the setting error of the check setting type is present as shown in . In addition, since there is a high possibility that the check setting is inappropriate as described above, a screen for urging the user to check the check setting is displayed on the operation device 200 .

[0076] <Description of the operation screen of the operating device when performing an inspection>

[0077] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Each is an explanatory diagram for illustrating display items of an operation screen when performing an inspection. In this case, the operation screen serves as an inspection screen. Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the example, area B601 is an area for displaying the read image. Area B602 is an area for displaying the inspection status such as the inspection count completed, the inspection NG count, the inspection NG rate, and the type of NG. Area B603 is an area for displaying the status such as waiting, inspection, or inspection completed. In the case where the printer 300 does not perform printing, as shown in FIG. Figure 7A As shown in , a message "Stop" indicating that the inspection is temporarily stopped is displayed in area B603. Meanwhile, as described above, in the case where an inspection NG occurs in the first sheet of the test print, there is a high probability that the inspection setting is not appropriate. Therefore, as shown in FIG. Figure 7B As shown in FIG6 , a message “Please check the inspection settings” is displayed in area B603 to urge the user to check the inspection settings.

[0078] As described above, the user can easily check whether there is an error in the inspection setting or the possibility of device abnormality is high during test printing by checking the items described in the status display area of ​​the area B603 of the inspection screen when the inspection is performed.

[0079] <Print Check Processing Flow>

[0080] Figure 84 is a flowchart of the main printing. In this flowchart, the processing to be executed by the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 and the processing to be executed by the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 are collectively illustrated. Figure 4 In the case where the user presses the print start button (button B105), the CPU 4301 is instructed to execute main printing, and main printing check processing is executed according to the instruction.

[0081] When button B105 is selected by operating the device 200, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 transmits job information including, for example, sheet information for printing, inspection settings, and a discharge destination to the inspection device 500 (step S901). The CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 receives the job information from the controller 400 (step S902). After receiving the job information from the controller 400, the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 transmits a reference image transmission request for inspection determination to the controller 400 (step S904).

[0082] The CPU 4301 of the controller 400 transmits the original image data of the print job as reference image data to the inspection device 500 based on the reference image transmission request received from the inspection device 500 (step S905). The CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 receives the reference image from the controller 400 to store the reference image in the storage device 5011, and notifies the controller 400 that preparation for the print job is complete (step S906).

[0083] When the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 receives the notification of preparation completion from the inspection device 500 (step S907), the CPU 4301 controls the printer 300 to start printing (step S908). After this, the CPU 4301 controls the operating device 200 to make the display display check screen, and displays the message (step S909) indicating that the printed product of the main print will be checked on the inspection screen. For example, this message is displayed in the area B603 of the inspection screen. The method of displaying the message is not limited to this example. For example, the CPU 4301 can display the message indicating that the main print check will be started on the inspection screen when receiving the notification of preparation completion from the inspection device 500, and can display the message indicating that the main print check is being executed after a predetermined period of time. In this case, until the predetermined period of time mentioned above, the cancel button of the check and the display indicating that the main print check will be started can be displayed on the screen, and the user can be allowed to cancel the main print check by pressing this cancel button.

[0084] After executing step S906, the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 determines whether the sheet has arrived at the sheet detection sensor 504 on the conveying path 501 of the inspection device 500 (step S910). If the sheet has not arrived ("No" in step S910), the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 waits for the sheet to arrive. If the sheet has arrived ("Yes" in step S910), the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 reads the transmitted sheet through the first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b, and instructs the image processor 5006 to perform a process for comparison with the reference image data received in step S906. Therefore, the image processor 5006 performs a process for comparison to perform image inspection (step S911).

[0085] The CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 transmits the inspection result of the image inspection based on the comparison performed by the image processor 5006 to the controller 400 (step S912) and determines whether all inspections have been completed (step S913). If the inspection has not been completed ("No" in step S913), the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 returns the process to the processing step of step S910 again. If the inspection has been completed ("Yes" in step S913), the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 ends the process. At the same time, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 determines whether the inspection result has been received (step S914). If the inspection result has not been received ("No" in step S914), the CPU 4301 waits for the reception of the inspection result, and if the inspection result has been received ("Yes" in step S914), the CPU 4301 controls the operating device 200 to update the inspection screen based on the inspection result (step S915).

[0086] After this, the controller 400 determines whether there is a page after the current page (step S916), and if there is a subsequent page ("Yes" in step S916), the controller 400 and the inspection device 500 repeat the processing steps from step S908 to step S916 again. If there is no subsequent page ("No" in step S916), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 determines whether the last page of the job has been processed and whether the printing and inspection of all pages have been completed (step S917). If the inspection has not been completed ("No" in step S917), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 executes step S914 again. If the inspection has been completed ("Yes" in step S917), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 controls the operating device 200 to perform a display indicating that the inspection has been completed on the inspection screen, and ends the process. Thus, the main print inspection process ends.

[0087] <Test Print Inspection Processing Flow>

[0088] Figure 9 4 is a flowchart of the test print inspection process. In this control, the process to be executed by the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 and the process to be executed by the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 are collectively illustrated. Figure 4 In the embodiment, when the user presses the test print start button (button B106), the CPU 4301 is instructed to perform a test print, and the test print check process is performed according to the instruction. In either of the first embodiment and the second embodiment to be described later, when performing the test print check, the image is printed only on the first page. However, for example, when multiple copies are to be printed, only one of the multiple copies can be printed as a test print. In addition, when multiple copies are indicated as the number of copies to be printed and the execution of the test print is indicated, the user can indicate whether to print one of the multiple copies or only the first page as a test print through the setting screen. In another mode, when multiple copies are indicated as the number of copies to be printed and the execution of the test print is indicated, the CPU 4301 can determine to print one of the multiple copies as a test print. In yet another mode, when multiple copies are indicated as the number of copies to be printed and the execution of the test print is indicated, the CPU 4301 can determine to print only the first page as a test print. When multiple pages are included in one copy, an image is printed on each of the multiple sheets. Then, each image formed on the multiple sheets is checked. In addition, in either the first embodiment or the second embodiment, when test printing is performed on a plurality of sheets, information including the reason for the inspection result is displayed according to how many sheets from the first sheet in the test printing the sheet whose inspection result is determined to have an abnormality corresponds to. In particular, the first embodiment shows an example in which it is determined that the inspection result indicates an abnormality (check NG) in the first sheet in the test printing.

[0089] When the user selects and presses button B106 by operating the device 200, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 transmits job information including sheet information for printing, inspection settings, and a discharge destination to the inspection device 500 (step S1001). The CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 receives the job information from the controller 400 (step S1002). After receiving the job information from the controller 400, the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 transmits a reference image transmission request for inspection determination to the controller 400 (step S1004).

[0090] The CPU 4301 of the controller 400 transmits the original image data of the print job as reference image data to the inspection device 500 based on the reference image transmission request received from the inspection device 500 (step S1005). The CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 receives the reference image from the controller 400 to store the reference image in the storage device 5011, and notifies the controller 400 that preparation for the print job is complete (step S1006).

[0091] When the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 receives a preparation completion notification from the inspection device 500 (step S1007), the CPU 4301 controls the printer 300 to start printing only the first page (step S1008). After this, the CPU 4301 controls the operating device 200 to display the inspection screen, and executes a display indicating that a test print check is being executed on the inspection screen (step S1009). For example, this display is executed in area B603 of the inspection screen. The display method is not limited to this example. For example, the CPU 4301 can execute a display indicating that a test print check is to be started on the inspection screen when the CPU 4301 receives a preparation completion notification from the inspection device 500, and can execute a display indicating that a test print check is to be started after a predetermined period of time. In this case, until the predetermined period of time mentioned above has passed, a cancel button for the test print check and a display indicating that a test print check is to be started can be displayed on the screen, and the user can be allowed to cancel the test print check by pressing this cancel button.

[0092] After executing step S1006, the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 determines whether the sheet has arrived at the sheet detection position of the sheet detection sensor 504 on the conveying path 501 of the inspection device 500 (step S1010). If the sheet has not arrived ("No" in step S1010), the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 waits for the sheet to arrive. If the sheet has arrived ("Yes" in step S1010), the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 sequentially reads the transmitted sheet through the first reader 5051a and the second reader 5051b. The CPU 5001 then instructs the image processor 5006 to perform a process for comparison with the reference image data received in step S1006. Therefore, the image processor 5006 performs a process for comparison to perform image inspection (step S1011).

[0093] The CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 transmits the inspection result of the image inspection based on the comparison performed by the image processor 5006 to the controller 400 (step S1012). The CPU 5001 determines whether all inspections have been completed (step S1013). If completed ("yes" in step S1013), the CPU ends the process. If not completed ("no" in step S1013), the CPU 5001 executes step S1010. On the other hand, after the CPU 5001 has processed S1012, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 determines whether the inspection result has been received (step S1014). In the case where the inspection result has not yet been received ("no" in step S1014), the CPU 4301 waits for the reception of the inspection result. In the case where the inspection result has been received ("yes" in step S1014), the CPU 4301 advances the process to step S1015 to determine whether an inspection NG has occurred in the first sheet (step S1015).

[0094] In the case where an inspection NG occurs in the first sheet ("Yes" in step S1015), the CPU 4301 determines whether the inspection NG indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection (step S1016). In the case where the inspection NG indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection ("Yes" in step S1016), the CPU 4301 controls the operating device 200 to display an item for urging the user to check the inspection settings on the inspection screen (step S1017), and also stops image formation to end processing. In the case where an inspection NG has not yet occurred ("No" in step S1015), the CPU 4301 controls the operating device 200 to update the inspection screen based on the inspection result (step S1018). Thereafter, the CPU 4301 determines whether all inspections have been completed (step S1019), and in the case where all inspections have not yet been completed ("No" in step S1019), the CPU 4301 returns the processing to the processing step of step S1014. In this way, the CPU 4301 repeats the processing steps from step S1014 to step S1017 until all images set in the test print are formed on the sheet. When all checks have been completed ("Yes" in step S1019), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 controls the operating device 200 to display an indication that the check has been completed on the check screen, and ends the process.

[0095] In addition, when the check NG indicates an abnormality other than the abnormality related to the variable check in step S1016 (No in step S1016), the CPU 4301 advances the process to step S1018. Step S1018 and subsequent processing steps are executed according to the above flow. Thus, the test print check process ends.

[0096] As the cause of inspection NG, there is a tendency that human error is the cause more often than machine failure. Therefore, in the first embodiment, when an inspection NG occurs on the first sheet, an item urging the user to check the inspection settings provided by the user is displayed on the display of the operating device 200 as information including the cause (inspection settings) of the abnormality in the inspection result.

[0097] The CPU 4301 may be configured to determine whether the check setting includes variable check if the check setting is NG in the first sheet (YES in step S1015 ), and if so, display a message urging the user to check the check setting on the check screen.

[0098] <Second embodiment>

[0099] A second embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this second embodiment, all device components are identical to those of the first embodiment, and the only difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment lies in the display of the operating device screen based on the test print inspection results and the corresponding processing flow. Therefore, in the second embodiment described below, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0100] <Print Check in Test Print>

[0101] If checking NG occurs in the second or subsequent sheets in the test print, the first sheet is determined to be checking OK, so the possibility of the checking setting being abnormal is low. Therefore, an item urging the user to check whether the device is unsuitable is given as a notification through the operation device 200.

[0102] <Description of Check Execution Screen of Operation Device 200>

[0103] Figure 10 1 is a diagram for illustrating an operation device screen after executing a check in the second embodiment. As described above, in the case where a check NG occurs in the second or subsequent sheets in the test print, the possibility that the check setting is inappropriate is low, and therefore, as shown in FIG. Figure 10 As shown in FIG, a display of “Please check the device for abnormality” is given as a notification by the operating device 200, and this display is an item for urging the user to check the device for abnormality.

[0104] <Test Print Inspection Processing Flow>

[0105] Figure 11 4 is a flowchart of the test print inspection process. In this flowchart, the process to be executed by the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 and the process to be executed by the CPU 5001 of the inspection device 500 are collectively illustrated. Figure 4In the case where the user selects and presses the button B106 as the test print start button, the CPU 4301 is instructed to perform the test print, and the test print check process is executed according to the instruction. Figure 11 In the embodiment, the processing steps from step S1101 to step S1114 are the same as the details of the respective processing steps from step S1001 to step S1014 in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof is omitted.

[0106] After executing step S1114, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 determines whether a check NG has occurred in the first sheet (step S1115). If a check NG has occurred in the first sheet ("Yes" in step S1115), similar to the first embodiment, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 controls the operating device 200 to display an item on the check screen that urges the user to check the check settings (step S1116), and executes the processing steps of step S1117 to be described later. If a check NG has not occurred in the first sheet ("No" in step S1115), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 determines whether a check NG has occurred in the second sheet or subsequent sheets (step S1119).

[0107] As described above, when multiple sheets are to be checked, the inspection settings (e.g., the setting of the inspection level and the arrangement of the area) are common to any sheet to be printed. When the inspection result is not NG ("No" in step S1119), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 executes the processing steps of step S1117 to be described later. When the inspection result is NG ("Yes" in step S1119), the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 controls the operating device 200 to display an item on the inspection screen for urging the user to check for device abnormalities (step S1120), and controls the operating device 200 to update the inspection screen based on the inspection result (step S1117). Thereafter, the CPU 4301 of the controller 400 controls the operating device 200 to perform a display indicating that the inspection has been completed on the inspection screen (step S1118). Therefore, the test print inspection process ends.

[0108] As described above, as a cause of inspection NG, the possibility of errors in the inspection settings provided by the user due to human error tends to be high. Figure 5 As described above, the check setting is common to any original, so check NG in the second or subsequent sheet means that there is an original that has passed the check before the original with check NG. Based on this fact, if check NG occurs in the second or subsequent sheet in step S1119, it is inferred that Figure 6B Check the settings area offset as shown in or Figure 6CThe probability of an inspection setting error in the inspection type shown in FIG is low. Therefore, in the second embodiment, as information including the cause of the abnormality in the inspection result (device abnormality), an item for urging the user to check the device abnormality is displayed on the display of the operating device 200. In this way, a more appropriate reason can be provided as a guide as the reason for the inspection NG.

[0109] <Third embodiment>

[0110] In the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment, when the inspection result of the first sheet in the test printing indicates inspection NG, an item for urging the user to check the inspection settings is displayed on the inspection screen, but the following control can be performed when the main printing is performed without performing the test printing. Figure 12 In the flowchart of FIG. 1 , the processing steps from step S1001 to step S1007, from step S1010 to step S1014, and step S1018 and step S1019 are the same as those in FIG. Figure 9 The processing steps in the flowchart of are similar, and their description is omitted. Figure 12 The flowchart is not executed Figure 9 The processing steps of steps S1008 and S1009 in .

[0111] Therefore, in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, if Figure 12 As shown in , in the case where the inspection result has been received in step S1014 ("Yes" in step S1014), the main print is performed without performing the test print. In the case where an inspection NG has occurred in the first sheet ("Yes" in step S3000), the CPU 4301 determines whether the inspection NG indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection (step S3001). In the case where the inspection NG indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection ("Yes" in step S3001), the CPU 4301 controls the operating device 200 to display an item for urging the user to check the inspection settings on the inspection screen (step S3002), and also stops image formation to end the process. In the case where an inspection NG has not yet occurred ("No" in step S3000), the CPU 4301 executes step S1018 and subsequent processing steps.

[0112] As described above, according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, a test print can be performed before the main print to verify whether there are any errors in the check settings. This prevents the occurrence of NG paper due to an NG print check caused by an error in the check settings during the main print. Furthermore, rework to review the check settings after the main print can be prevented.

[0113] In addition, it is considered that there are other reasons among the reasons for inspection NG that are highly likely to be the cause of inspection NG in the inspection of the first sheet depending on the type of image forming apparatus, etc. In this case, Figure 9 In step S1016, among the reasons for inspection NG, other reasons that are likely to be the cause of inspection NG in the inspection of the first sheet may be displayed. The items for checking inspection settings and checking device abnormalities are visually displayed. However, instead of visual display, the items corresponding to the inspection settings or device abnormalities may be presented using voice (audio), vibration patterns (touch), or the like.

[0114] In recovery printing, since the possibility of printing failure is high, even if recovery printing is performed, check NG may occur again. In this case, the user is required to classify the cause as an error in the check setting or the occurrence of the printing failure, resulting in an increase in the user's work hours.

[0115] According to the present disclosure, the cause of an abnormality in an inspection result can be appropriately presented to the user.

[0116] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention 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.

[0117] This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-041488, filed on March 15, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Claims

1. An image forming system comprising: an image forming section configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading section configured to read an image formed on a sheet; a setting section configured to set an inspection condition for inspecting the image read by the reading section; an inspection unit configured to perform inspection of a reading result of the image read by the reading unit according to the inspection condition set by the setting unit; a display unit configured to display an inspection result obtained by the inspection unit; as well as The control means is configured to control the display means to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection settings if the inspection result for the first sheet obtained by the inspection means indicates an abnormality.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the setting means is operable to set a variable check for controlling the checking means to check an area in an image formed on a sheet, the area being changed for each sheet, and The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection setting when the inspection result of the first sheet obtained by the inspection unit indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection.

3. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the setting means is operable to set a variable check for controlling the checking means to check an area in an image formed on a sheet, the area being changed for each sheet, and The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message urging a user to check the check setting when the check result of the first sheet obtained by the check unit indicates abnormality and the variable check is set by the setting unit.

4. The image forming system according to claim 1 , further comprising a receiving unit configured to receive an instruction to perform a test print, The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message urging a user to check the inspection settings if an inspection result on the first sheet in the test printing executed in response to the instruction indicates abnormality. 5 . The image forming system according to claim 1 , wherein the image forming section is configured to stop image formation if an inspection result obtained by the inspection section with respect to the first sheet indicates abnormality.

6. The image forming system according to claim 4, wherein the control section is configured to control the display section to display a message urging a user to check the device abnormality when the test printing is to be performed and the check result is determined to have an abnormality in the second sheet or subsequent sheets. 7 . The image forming system according to claim 1 , wherein the inspection condition includes a plurality of setting items, each setting item affecting the determination of whether the inspection result indicates an abnormality.

8. The image forming system according to claim 4, wherein the test printing involves printing a portion of a page to be printed.

9. The image forming system according to claim 4, wherein the control section is configured to control the display section to present which of the printing as the test printing and the printing other than the test printing is performed.

10. An image forming system comprising: an image forming section configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading section configured to read an image formed on a sheet; a setting section configured to set an inspection condition for inspecting the image read by the reading section; an inspection unit configured to perform inspection of a reading result of the image read by the reading unit according to the inspection condition set by the setting unit; a display unit configured to display an inspection result obtained by the inspection unit; as well as The control means is configured to control the display means to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection settings if the inspection result of the image formed as the first copy obtained by the inspection means indicates abnormality.

11. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the setting means is operable to set a variable check for controlling the checking means to check an area in an image formed on a sheet, the area being changed for each sheet, and The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection setting when the inspection result of the image formed as the first copy obtained by the inspection unit indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection.

12. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the setting means is operable to set a variable check for controlling the checking means to check an area in an image formed on a sheet, the area being changed for each sheet, and The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message for urging a user to check the check setting when the check result of the image formed as the first copy obtained by the check unit indicates abnormality and the variable check is set by the setting unit.

13. The image forming system according to claim 10, further comprising a receiving unit configured to receive an instruction to perform a test print, The control section is configured to control the display section to display a message urging a user to check the check settings if a result of checking an image formed as a first copy in the test printing performed in response to the instruction indicates abnormality. 14 . The image forming system according to claim 10 , wherein the image forming section is configured to stop image formation if an inspection result of the image formed as the first copy obtained by the inspection section indicates abnormality.

15. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the control section is configured to control the display section to display a message urging a user to check for an abnormality of the device when the test printing is to be performed and the check result is determined to have an abnormality in the image formed as the second copy or subsequent copies. 16 . The image forming system according to claim 10 , wherein the inspection condition includes a plurality of setting items, each setting item affecting the determination of whether the inspection result indicates an abnormality.

17. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the test printing involves printing a portion of a page to be printed.

18. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the control section is configured to control the display section to present which of the printing as the test printing and the printing other than the test printing is performed.

19. An image forming system comprising: an image forming section configured to form an image on a sheet based on image data; a reading section configured to read an image formed on a sheet; a setting section configured to set an inspection condition for inspecting the image read by the reading section; an inspection unit configured to perform inspection of a reading result of the image read by the reading unit according to the inspection condition set by the setting unit; a display unit configured to display an inspection result obtained by the inspection unit; as well as a control section configured to execute main printing using the image forming section in response to an instruction to execute main printing, and execute test printing using the image forming section in response to an instruction to execute test printing, The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message for urging a user to check the inspection settings when the inspection result indicates abnormality when the test printing is performed.

20. The image forming system according to claim 19, wherein the setting means is operable to set a variable check for controlling the checking means to check an area in an image formed on a sheet, the area being changed for each sheet, and The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message urging a user to check the inspection setting if the inspection result obtained by the inspection unit when the test printing is performed indicates an abnormality related to the variable inspection.

21. The image forming system according to claim 19, wherein the setting means is operable to set a variable check for controlling the checking means to check an area in an image formed on a sheet, the area being changed for each sheet, and The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display a message urging a user to check the check setting when the check result obtained by the check unit when the test printing is performed indicates abnormality and the variable check is set by the setting unit.

22. The image forming system according to claim 19, wherein the image forming section is configured to stop the image formation if an inspection result obtained by the inspection section when the test printing is performed indicates abnormality.

23. The image forming system according to claim 19, wherein the inspection condition includes a plurality of setting items, each setting item affecting the determination of whether the inspection result indicates an abnormality.

24. The image forming system according to claim 19, wherein the test printing involves printing a portion of a page to be printed.

25. The image forming system according to claim 19, wherein the control section is configured to control the display section to present which of the printing as the test printing and the printing other than the test printing is performed.

Images