Information processing system, program product, and information processing method

Abstract

Provided are an information processing system, a program product, and an information processing method, the information processing system being provided with a processor for: acquiring verification data for an object to be inspected configured from a medium in which a plurality of images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit; and verifying at least one of a poor direction and a poor order of the image of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present invention relates to an information processing system, a program product, and an information processing method. The present invention can also be applied to a program and a program product. Background Art

[0002] In the product inspection system using a multifunction printer described in patent document 1, the multifunction printer has: a printing mechanism that prints print data; a reading mechanism that reads the original document printed by the printing mechanism; an image comparison mechanism that compares the image generated from the print data for printing by the printing mechanism with the image read by the reading mechanism; an NG processing mechanism when the image comparison mechanism determines that the image is different (=NG); and a printing order / direction adjustment mechanism that adjusts the direction and order of the pages to be reprinted in consideration of the paper discharge characteristics of the scanner when reprinting an image determined as NG by the NG processing mechanism. The product inspection system is characterized in that it has: an NG page detection mechanism that detects pages determined as NG by the NG processing mechanism; and a paper control mechanism that controls the paper discharge destination and paper supply according to the judgment result of the NG page detection mechanism.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-83449 Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to provide an information processing system capable of verifying at least one of a direction error and a sequence error in images of an object to be inspected, even if multiple images of the object to be inspected are formed on media at different times and subsequently combined.

[0005] The information processing system involved in the first embodiment includes a processor, which performs the following processing: obtaining verification data of an inspected object composed of a medium on which multiple images are formed and an image read from the inspected object by an image reading unit; and verifying at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect of the image of the inspected object based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0006] The information processing system involved in the second embodiment is an information processing system involved in the first embodiment. In a case where the image of the object to be inspected is formed on two sides of the medium, the processor causes the image reading unit to read only one side of the medium, and verifies at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect of the image of the object to be inspected based on the image of the one side and the verification data.

[0007] The information processing system according to the third aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the processor verifies the image of the inspection object for orientation errors and order errors based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0008] An information processing system according to a fourth aspect is the information processing system according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the processor verifies excess or deficiency of the inspection object based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0009] The information processing system according to the fifth aspect is an information processing system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the processor does not verify the quality of the image of the inspected object when verifying at least one of a bad direction and a bad sequence of the image of the inspected object.

[0010] In the information processing system according to a sixth aspect, in the information processing system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the processor uses the verification data having a lower resolution than the image read by the image reading unit.

[0011] An information processing system according to a seventh aspect is the information processing system according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the processor presents a method for resolving the abnormality based on a verification result of the verified inspection object.

[0012] The information processing system involved in the 8th embodiment is an information processing system involved in the 7th embodiment, wherein the processor performs the following processing: saves the original data of the image used by the image forming unit in image formation; and when prompting the method for eliminating the abnormality, displays the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data together with the verification result to the user.

[0013] The program product involved in the 9th method records an information processing program that causes a computer to execute processing including the following steps: obtaining verification data of an inspected object composed of a medium in which multiple images are formed and an image read from the inspected object by an image reading unit; and verifying at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect in the image of the inspected object based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0014] The information processing method involved in the 10th method includes the following steps: obtaining verification data of an inspected object composed of a medium on which a plurality of images are formed and an image read from the inspected object by an image reading unit; and verifying at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect of the image of the inspected object based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0015] Effects of the Invention

[0016] According to the first, ninth, or tenth aspect, even if a plurality of image-formed media constituting the inspection object are imaged at different times and subsequently combined, at least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the images of the inspection object can be verified.

[0017] According to the second aspect, the inspection time is shortened compared to a configuration in which both surfaces of a medium are verified when images are formed on both surfaces of the medium.

[0018] According to the third aspect, even if a plurality of image-formed media constituting the inspection object are image-formed at different times and subsequently combined, it is possible to verify orientation errors and sequence errors in the images of the inspection object.

[0019] According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to verify excess or deficiency of the inspection object.

[0020] According to the fifth aspect, the inspection time is shortened compared to a configuration in which the quality of an image of the inspection object is verified.

[0021] According to the sixth aspect, the verification time is shortened compared to a configuration in which verification data having the same resolution as the image read by the image reading unit is used.

[0022] According to the seventh aspect, the time required for the user to resolve an anomaly is shortened compared to a configuration in which only the verification result is presented.

[0023] According to the eighth aspect, compared with a configuration in which only improvement instructions are notified to the user, it is easier for the user to perform an operation to correct the abnormality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an inspection system according to an embodiment of the technology of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the inspection system according to the present embodiment;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a timing diagram from setting up to inspecting the object to be inspected in the inspection system according to this embodiment;

[0028] Figure 4 is a flowchart of the inspection in the information processing program involved in this embodiment;

[0029] Figure 5 This is an example of a display to a user by the controller according to this embodiment.

[0030] Explanation of symbols

[0031] 10 - Inspection system, 20 - Image forming device, 30 - Verification device, 40 - Image reading unit, 70 - Controller, 72A - CPU, 72B - ROM, 72C - RAM, 72D - Storage device, 72E - Bus, 78 - Input / output unit, 80 - Network I / F. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the technology of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in each of the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or equivalent components and parts.

[0033] <Structure of embodiment>

[0034] (Check system)

[0035] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of an inspection system 10 involved in an embodiment of the technology of the present invention. The inspection system 10 is configured as an image forming system, and the image forming system is used as a system for inspecting the following inspected object, which is completed by combining a plurality of recording media (not shown) on which images are formed at different times into one. A recording medium is an example of a medium. Specifically, with respect to a plurality of recording media on which images are formed at different times, when the user combines them into one while considering the direction, sequence, and front and back sides of the recording media, the inspection system 10 inspects the inspected object by verifying that the direction, sequence, and excess or deficiency of the image are poor by the controller 70 described later. In addition, in this specification, sometimes the direction, sequence, and excess or deficiency of the image are collectively referred to as "abnormal", and the state without abnormality is referred to as "normal". The inspection system 10 includes an image forming device 20, a verification device 30, and a controller 70.

[0036] (Image Forming Apparatus)

[0037] The image forming device 20 is a device that forms an image on a recording medium (not shown) or conveys an object to be inspected based on job data (hereinafter referred to as raw data) sent from the controller 70. The image forming device 20 is an example of an image forming unit. As the image forming device 20, for example, an electrophotographic image forming device that forms an image on a recording medium using toner can be used. Alternatively, the image forming device 20 can be an inkjet image forming device, and various image forming devices can be used. In an inkjet image forming device, for example, an image is formed on a recording medium by ejecting ink droplets from an ejection unit (not shown) onto the recording medium.

[0038] The image forming apparatus 20 performs various processes such as charging, exposure, development, transfer to a recording medium, and fixing, etc. The image forming apparatus 20 also stores original image data used in image formation.

[0039] ((Verification Device))

[0040] When functioning as part of an image forming system, the verification device 30 scans an image formed on a recording medium by the image forming device 20 , compares the scanned data with the original data to check the image quality, and outputs whether the image is normal or abnormal.

[0041] When the verification device 30 functions as a part of the inspection system 10, it will verify the object to be inspected transmitted from the image forming device 20 while being connected to the image forming device 20. Specifically, the verification device 30 has an image reading unit 40, and the multiple recording media constituting the object to be inspected are scanned by the image reading unit 40 for each page of the recording media. When the scanning of all the recording media is completed, the verification results of the scanning are stored in the memory together with the scan data. Scanning is an example of reading, and scan data is an example of an image read by the image forming unit described later. In addition, the verification result refers to the result of the scanning related to the sameness (including direction) of the image accompanied by the comparison between the scan data of the object to be inspected and the verification data.

[0042] Furthermore, this memory is not limited to being stored within the verification device 30. The controller 70 described later may also be used, or an external server or portable storage medium may be used. Furthermore, the image reader 40 is not limited to being part of the verification device 30. For example, the image reader 40 may be part of the image forming device 20 or may be an external image reader that is detachable from the inspection system 10.

[0043] When images are formed on both sides of the recording medium, the image reading unit 40 scans the images on both sides. Alternatively, the image reading unit 40 may scan only one side.

[0044] (Controller)

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the controller 70 is connected to the image forming device 20 and the verification device 30 in a wired or wireless manner.

[0046] When functioning as part of the image forming system, the controller 70 controls the entire process of forming an image on a recording medium. Specifically, the controller 70 receives an image forming job, outputs an image forming instruction to the image forming device 20 based on the job, receives image quality verification results from the verification device 30, and displays the verification results on a user interface (not shown).

[0047] When functioning as part of the inspection system 10, the controller 70 generates verification data, instructs the image forming device 20 to convey the inspection object, instructs the verification device 30 to perform verification, and then inspects the inspection object. The verification data is used to compare the scanned data with the image for identity (including orientation) during inspection and is data with a lower resolution than the original data. The controller 70 does not verify the quality of the image formed on the inspection object.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, controller 70 includes components such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 72A, ROM (Read Only Memory) 72B, RAM (Random Access Memory) 72C, a storage device (storage) 72D, an input / output unit 78, and a network interface (network I / F) 80. These components are interconnected via a bus 72E for communication. Controller 70 is an example of an information processing system.

[0049] The CPU 72A is a central processing unit (CPU) that executes various programs and controls various components. Specifically, the CPU 72A reads programs from the ROM 72B or storage device 72D and executes them using the RAM 72C as a workspace. The CPU 72A is an example of a processor, and the control program executed by the CPU 72A is an example of an information processing program. The CPU 72A controls the various components described above and performs various calculations according to the programs stored in the ROM 72B or storage device 72D.

[0050] ROM 72B stores various programs and data. RAM 72C temporarily stores programs and data as a work area. Storage device 72D is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive), and stores various programs including an operating system and various data.

[0051] The input / output unit 78 receives signals between the components of the inspection system 10 in order to enable the image forming system and the inspection system 10 to function.

[0052] The network I / F 80 is an interface for communicating with other devices such as a database or a server (not shown), and can use standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), FDDI, or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0053] As described above, the inspection system 10 inspects the inspection object via the image forming device 20 .

[0054] Checking the system sequence

[0055] Next, a description will be given of a sequence of states in which each component in the inspection system 10 functions.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the inspection object is set in the image forming apparatus 20. Specifically, the inspection object is set by storing the inspection object in a tray (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 20.

[0057] When the inspection object is set in the image forming device 20 , the controller 70 generates verification data based on the raw data and transmits the generated verification data to the verification device 30 .

[0058] After the authentication device 30 receives the authentication data, the controller 70 instructs the image forming device 20 to perform authentication.

[0059] The image forming device 20 transports the inspection object stored on a tray to the verification device 30 via a transport path. An example of an inspection object is a situation where a portion of the images formed on multiple recording media by the image forming device 20, as part of an image forming system, exhibits quality abnormalities. The user manually replaces the recording media containing the abnormal images with a bundle of recording media containing normal images formed at a different time. In this bundle of recording media, the order, orientation, front, and back of the pages may differ from the original data.

[0060] The verification device 30 scans the object to be inspected, which is transmitted from the image forming device 20, starting with each page of the recording medium through the image reading unit 40. The verification device 30 performs verification by comparing the scanned data obtained by scanning each page of the recording medium with the verification data, and saves it as the verification result of the object to be inspected. As long as the image reading unit 40 generates scanned data, the verification device 30 will continue to verify and save the verification result. When the image reading unit 40 no longer generates scanned data, the verification device 30 notifies the controller 70 of the saved verification result. In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the verification device 30 notifies the controller 70 of the verification result, but this is not limited to this. For example, the controller 70 that has obtained the scanned data and the original data or the verification data may also generate the verification result.

[0061] Then, the controller 70 acquires the verification result from the verification device 30 and checks the verification result.

[0062] [Details of the inspection]

[0063] Next, refer to Figure 4 The details of the inspection of the inspection object performed by the controller 70 will be described.

[0064] In step S10 , the CPU 72A of the controller 70 determines whether or not there is an abnormality detection page in the verification result.

[0065] If the result of the determination is affirmative "yes", the CPU 72A determines that the inspection object contains some kind of abnormality and moves to step S20.

[0066] In step S20 , the CPU 72A moves to the abnormality detection page of the scan data and sets the abnormality detection page as the verification target page. The CPU 72A then moves to step S30 .

[0067] When the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30, it determines whether the contents of the scanned data have been checked for all pages of the verification data. Here, only the verification data corresponding to the abnormality detection page of the scanned data is checked for all pages. However, all pages of the verification data may be checked for all pages, regardless of the abnormality detection page of the scanned data.

[0068] 〔〔0 degree rotation〕〕

[0069] If the result of determination in step S30 is "No," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S40 to determine whether the scan data has been rotated 0 degrees from the reference direction to a correct direction. The reference direction is a single direction specified by the user (not shown).

[0070] 〔〔90-degree rotation〕〕

[0071] If the result of step S40 is "No", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S42 to determine whether the scan data has the correct orientation after being rotated 90 degrees from the reference orientation. The details of step S62 when the result of step S40 is "Yes" will be described later.

[0072] 〔〔180-degree rotation〕〕

[0073] If the result of determination in step S42 is "NO", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S44 to determine whether the scan data has been rotated 180 degrees from the reference direction to a correct direction.

[0074] 〔〔270-degree rotation〕〕

[0075] If the result of determination in step S44 is "NO", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S46 to determine whether the scan data has been rotated 270 degrees from the reference direction to a correct direction.

[0076] If the result of step S46 is "No," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S50. In this case, the content (image) of the scanned data of the verification target page contains an abnormality. Specifically, the image of the scanned data of the verification target page will not be correctly oriented even if rotated. Therefore, the CPU 72A determines that there is an abnormality other than an image orientation error and proceeds to step S50.

[0077] In step S50, the CPU 72A moves the page of verification data to be compared with the verification target page. Specifically, the CPU 72A moves the page from the current page of verification data to another page in order to determine whether the scanned data designated as the verification target page is in the correct position within the other pages of the inspection object (verification data), that is, whether the order is correct. The CPU 72A then moves to step S30.

[0078] [Step S62]

[0079] Step S62 will be described. If the result of the determination in any of steps S40, S42, S44, or S46 is "YES," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S62. Specifically, the content (image) of the scanned data set on the verification target page is rotated to bring the scanned data image into the correct orientation. Correcting the orientation of the image will return it to normal.

[0080] Therefore, in step S62 , the CPU 72A saves the page of verification data, the page of scan data set as the page to be compared, and the rotation information.

[0081] If the result of determination in step S30 is YES, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S64 and stores abnormality information including at least information that an image matching the verification data does not exist in the verification target page and a solution for correcting the abnormality.

[0082] In either case where the processing of step S62 or step S64 is completed, the inspection of the current verification target page is completed, and therefore the CPU 72A proceeds to step S10 to determine whether there is an abnormality detection page.

[0083] Finally, in step S10 , if the result of determination is “No” indicating a negative result, the CPU 72A ends the flow.

[0084] [An example of verification result display]

[0085] In the inspection system 10 of this embodiment, verification results can be displayed on a display unit (not shown). Based on the verification results of the inspected object, the inspection system 10 provides the user with instructions on how to resolve the anomaly. The display unit can be a component of the inspection system 10 or incorporated as part of the component.

[0086] right Figure 5 The object to be inspected is a bundle of six recording media with images formed at different times. That is, the object to be inspected consists of a total of six pages. Figure 5 As shown, the verification result is presented together with the verification data, the scan data related to the verification result, and the elimination plan indicating the elimination method of the abnormality. Figure 5 Furthermore, the original data can be presented instead of the verification data.

[0087] 〔〔Verification Data〕〕

[0088] Verification data is displayed for each page of the recording medium. In this embodiment, the verification data is displayed for a total of six pages, each page arranged horizontally. Furthermore, the corresponding page number is displayed below the image corresponding to each page. In this embodiment, the page numbers 1 to 6 are displayed in ascending order from the left below the image corresponding to each page.

[0089] Scan data

[0090] The scanned data is displayed in the order in which it was scanned, below the verification data. In this embodiment, the scanned data is displayed for a total of six pages, with each page arranged horizontally. The corresponding page number is displayed below the image corresponding to each page. The scanned data also includes a display showing the verification results for each page. In this embodiment, a pattern corresponding to the verification result for each page of the recording medium is annotated.

[0091] The images are categorized into four types: (i) "Normal," indicating a normal verification result; (ii) "Abnormal (Page / Rotation)," indicating that the image needs to be oriented or rotated correctly; (iii) "Abnormal (Excess)," indicating that the inspected object contains an excess image and needs to be discarded; and (iv) "Abnormal (Insufficient)," indicating that the inspected object contains an insufficient image and needs to be re-imaged. While this manual categorizes images based on these patterns, this is not limiting. For example, the images can be categorized by color, size, or other emphasis methods, instead of patterns.

[0092] Elimination plan

[0093] The elimination plan displays information indicating image orientation errors, image order errors, and excess or deficiency errors below the scanned data. In this embodiment, the elimination plan displays six pages, each arranged horizontally. Below the image corresponding to each page, the page number and rotation information used to eliminate the error are displayed. The elimination plan also includes a display showing the verification results for each page. In this embodiment, a pattern corresponding to the verification result for each page of the recording medium is annotated.

[0094] Effects

[0095] Regarding the inspection system 10 of this embodiment, the Figure 5 An example of Figure 4 The contents of the flowchart are explained.

[0096] In this example, the object to be inspected related to the scanned data is a recording medium consisting of a total of 6 pages. In the image reading unit 40 of the verification device 30, a total of 6 pages of the recording medium are scanned, and the verification results are saved for each recording medium (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0097] (Verification of the second page of the scanned data and the second page of the verification data)

[0098] The verification result includes abnormality-detected pages for three pages (pages 2, 4, and 5) out of a total of six pages. Therefore, the CPU 72A determines "yes" in step S10 and moves to step S20.

[0099] In step S20 , the CPU 72A moves to the second page of the scanned data as the first abnormality detection page, sets the second page of the scanned data as the verification target page, and then moves to step S30 .

[0100] In step S30 , since the content (image) of the second page of the scanned data has not been checked among the three pages (pages 2, 4, and 5) of verification data corresponding to the abnormality detection page of the scanned data, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S40 .

[0101] In step S40, the CPU 72A determines whether the second page of the scanned data has been rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation of the verification data relative to the second page of the verification data, resulting in the correct orientation. In this embodiment, since the determination result of step S40 is "No," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S42. Subsequently, since the determination result of any of the steps from step S42 through step S46 is "No," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S50.

[0102] In step S50 , the CPU 72A shifts the page of the verification data to be compared with the verification target page (page 2 of the scanned data) from the current page 2 to the next page 4. The CPU 72A then shifts the process to step S30 .

[0103] (Verification of the scanned data page 2 and the verification data page 4)

[0104] In step S30 , since the content of the second page of the scanned data has not been collated in the fourth and fifth pages of the verification data, the CPU 72A makes a “No” determination and proceeds to step S40 .

[0105] In step S40, the content of the second page of the scanned data will not be in the correct orientation even after being rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation of the fourth page of the verification data, so the determination is "No," and the process moves to step S42. The CPU 72A also makes a "No" determination in step S42, and the process moves to step S44.

[0106] Then, in step S44, since the content of the verification target page (page 2 of the scanned data) is rotated 180 degrees from the reference direction in page 4 of the verification data to become the correct direction (the direction in which the triangle mark is upright), CPU 72A determines "yes" and transfers to step S62.

[0107] In step S62 , the CPU 72A stores information indicating that the second page of the scanned data set as the verification target page has been rotated 180 degrees from the reference direction and moved to the fourth page of the elimination solution.

[0108] (Verification of the second page of the verification data against the fourth page of the scanned data)

[0109] In step S10, since the verification results still include pages 4 and 5 of the scanned data as abnormality detection pages, the CPU 72A determines "yes" and moves to step S20. In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to page 4 of the scanned data and sets it as the verification target page.

[0110] When the process is similarly performed below with the fourth page of the scanned data as the page to be compared, the CPU 72A makes a “YES” determination in step S40 and moves the process to step S62 .

[0111] In step S62 , the CPU 72A stores information indicating that the fourth page of the scanned data set as the verification target page has been moved to the second page of the elimination solution while being rotated 0 degrees from the reference direction (the current image orientation).

[0112] (Verification of the verification data on page 5 of the scanned data on page 5)

[0113] In step S10, since the fifth page of the scanned data remains as an abnormality detection page in the verification results, the CPU 72A determines "yes" and moves on to step S20. In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to the fifth page of the scanned data and sets it as the verification target page. The CPU 72A then moves on to step S30.

[0114] In step S30 , since the verification of the contents of the fifth page of the scanned data has not been completed in the fifth page of the verification data, the CPU 72A makes a “No” determination and moves to step S40 .

[0115] In step S40, the content of the fifth page of the scanned data will not be in the correct orientation even if rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation of the fifth page of the verification data. Therefore, the CPU 72A makes a "No" determination in step S42 and beyond, and the process proceeds to step S50.

[0116] In step S50 , the CPU 72A moves the page of the verification data to be compared with the verification target page (the fifth page of the scanned data) from the current fifth page, and then proceeds to step S30 .

[0117] In step S30 , since the content of the scanned data has been checked for all pages of the verification data (pages 2 , 4 , and 5 ), the CPU 72A makes a “YES” determination and moves to step S64 .

[0118] In step S64, the CPU 72A saves the abnormal information. The abnormal information in this embodiment is as follows (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0119] (1) Move the scanned data from page 4 to page 2 of the elimination solution after rotating it 0 degrees from the reference direction.

[0120] (2) Move the second page of the scanned data to the fourth page of the elimination solution while rotating it 180 degrees from the reference direction

[0121] (3) An error indicating insufficient image is displayed on page 5 of the solution.

[0122] (4) An error indicating redundant images is displayed on page 5 of the scanned data.

[0123] Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S10 .

[0124] Finally, in step S10 , since no abnormality detection page remains, the CPU 72A determines “No” and ends the process.

[0125] Effects

[0126] When multiple recording media are combined into one, the inspection object inspected by the inspection system 10 may have images with incorrect orientation, incorrect order, or with excess or insufficient images.

[0127] The controller 70 of this embodiment receives verification data for an inspection object formed from a recording medium on which multiple images have been formed, and an image scanned from the inspection object by the image reader 40, and verifies at least one of a poor orientation and a poor order of the images of the inspection object based on the images scanned by the image reader 40 and the verification data. Furthermore, the control program executed by the CPU 72A of this embodiment causes the computer to perform processing including the following steps: receiving verification data for an inspection object formed from a recording medium on which multiple images have been formed; causing the image reader 40 to scan an image formed by the image forming device 20 to scan an image of the inspection object; and verifying at least one of a poor orientation and a poor order of the images of the inspection object based on the images scanned by the image reader 40 and the verification data.

[0128] As described above, through the control program executed by the controller 70 or CPU 72A, even if the recording media on which multiple images of the inspected object are formed are imaged at different times and subsequently combined, at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect in the image of the inspected object can be verified.

[0129] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment verifies the orientation and order of the image of the inspection object based on the image scanned by the image reading unit 40 and the verification data. Thus, even if multiple image-formed media constituting the inspection object are imaged at different times and subsequently combined, it is still possible to verify the orientation and order of the image of the inspection object.

[0130] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment verifies the excess or shortage of the inspection object based on the image scanned by the image reading unit 40 and the verification data.

[0131] Furthermore, when verifying at least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspected object, the controller 70 of this embodiment does not verify the quality of the image of the inspected object.

[0132] Furthermore, in the controller 70 of this embodiment, the processor uses the verification data having a lower resolution than the image scanned by the image reader 40. This shortens verification time compared to a configuration in which verification data having the same resolution as the image scanned by the image reader 40 is used.

[0133] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment presents a method for resolving the abnormality based on the verification result of the verified object. This shortens the time required for the user to resolve the abnormality compared to a configuration that only presents the verification result.

[0134] The controller 70 of this embodiment then stores the original image data used by the image forming apparatus 20 for image formation, and when prompting the user with a method for correcting the abnormality, displays the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data together with the verification result. This makes it easier for the user to correct the abnormality, compared to a configuration in which the user is merely notified of improvement instructions.

[0135] Modifications

[0136] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it is obvious that any person skilled in the art of the present invention can conceive of various modification examples or application examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and understand that these also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0137] <<First Modification>>

[0138] The inspection system 10 can also be applied to a case where images of the inspection object are formed on both surfaces of a recording medium.

[0139] exist Figure 3 In the case of a recording medium having images formed on both sides, the image reading unit 40 of the verification device 30 scans the image on only one side of the two sides. Next, the controller 70 starts the inspection.

[0140] Next, refer to Figure 4 In step S10 , if there is an abnormality detection page in the verification result, the CPU 72A of the controller 70 proceeds to step S20 .

[0141] In step S20 , the CPU 72A moves to the abnormality detection page of the scan data in which only one surface has been scanned, sets the abnormality detection page as the verification target page, and then moves to step S30 .

[0142] In step S30 , the CPU 72A sequentially compares the contents of the scanned data of only one side with the verification data of the two sides, and finally ends the process.

[0143] As described above, the controller 70 according to the first modification causes the image reader 40 to read only one side of the recording medium when an image of the inspection object is formed on both sides of the recording medium, and verifies at least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspection object based on the image of the one side and the verification data. According to the first modification, the inspection time is shortened compared to a configuration in which verification is performed on both sides of the recording medium when images are formed on both sides of the recording medium.

[0144] In the first modification, as a method of resolving the abnormality, an instruction for the user to reverse the scan data may be added to the above embodiment.

[0145] <<Other modifications>>

[0146] The inspection object is a combination of a plurality of recording media into one inspection object, and the combination method may be manual combination by a user or combination based on a specific device.

[0147] In the above embodiment, during inspection of the object, the order of images is determined after determining their orientation, but this is not limiting. For example, the orientation of the images may be determined after determining their order. Furthermore, the presence or absence of images may be determined after determining their orientation and order. In this case, the presence or absence of images may be determined by comparing the number of pages in the scanned data with the number of pages in the verification data.

[0148] In the above embodiment, the image forming device 20 within the inspection system 10 is configured to store the original image data used for image formation. However, this is not limiting. For example, when using the original image data used for image formation by an image forming device located outside the inspection system 10, the inspection system 10 may store verification data generated from this original data.

[0149] In the above embodiment, the inspection system 10 includes a single image forming device 20, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The inspection system 10 may also include multiple image forming devices. In this case, even if only some of the image forming devices include the verification device 30, by sharing verification data, the remaining image forming devices can also perform inspection of the inspected object.

[0150] The above-mentioned processing can also be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit. In this case, it can be executed by a single hardware or by multiple hardwares.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the processor refers to a processor in a broad sense, including general-purpose processors (for example, CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.), special-purpose processors (for example, GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic devices, etc.).

[0152] Furthermore, the actions of the processors in the above embodiments may be performed by a single processor or by a plurality of processors located in physically separate locations in collaboration. Alternatively, the actions performed by a specific plurality of processors in the above embodiments may be partially or completely integrated and performed by a single processor. Furthermore, the order in which the actions of the processors are performed is not limited to that described in the above embodiments and may be modified as appropriate.

[0153] Furthermore, the program that operates the controller 70 can be provided via a computer-readable recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory device, a floppy disk, or a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), or can be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is typically transferred to and stored in a memory or storage device. Furthermore, the program can be provided as standalone application software or incorporated into the software of each device as a function of the controller 70.

[0154] <Note> (1)

[0156] An information processing system comprising a processor,

[0157] The processor performs the following processing:

[0158] Acquiring verification data of an inspection object composed of a plurality of media on which images are formed and an image read from the inspection object by an image reading unit; and

[0159] At least one of a direction error and a sequence error of the image of the inspection object is verified based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data. (2)

[0161] The information processing system according to (1), wherein

[0162] When the image of the inspected object is formed on two sides of the medium, the processor causes the image reading unit to read only one side of the medium, and verifies at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect in the image of the inspected object based on the image of the one side and the verification data. (3)

[0164] The information processing system according to (1) or (2), wherein

[0165] The processor verifies whether the image of the inspection object is improperly oriented or improperly ordered based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data. (4)

[0167] The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein

[0168] The processor verifies excess or deficiency of the inspection object based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data. (5)

[0170] The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein

[0171] When verifying at least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspection object, the processor does not verify the quality of the image of the inspection object. (6)

[0173] The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein

[0174] The processor uses the verification data having a lower resolution than the image read by the image reading unit. (7)

[0176] The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein

[0177] The processor suggests a method for eliminating the abnormality based on the verification result of the verified inspection object. (8)

[0179] The information processing system according to (7), wherein

[0180] The processor performs the following processing:

[0181] storing original image data used by the image forming unit in image formation; and

[0182] When the method for eliminating the abnormality is presented, the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data is displayed to the user together with the verification result. (9)

[0184] An information processing program that causes a computer to execute a process including the following steps:

[0185] Acquiring verification data of an inspection object composed of a plurality of media on which images are formed and an image read from the inspection object by an image reading unit; and

[0186] At least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspection object is verified based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0187] According to the information processing system of (1) or the information processing program of (9), even if the media constituting the multiple images of the inspected object are imaged at different times and subsequently combined, at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect in the images of the inspected object can be verified.

[0188] According to the information processing system of (2), the inspection time is shortened compared to a configuration in which both surfaces of a medium are verified when images are formed on both surfaces of the medium.

[0189] According to the information processing system of (3), even if a plurality of media on which images of the inspection object have been formed are imaged at different times and subsequently combined, it is possible to verify that the images of the inspection object have incorrect directions and incorrect sequences.

[0190] According to the information processing system of (4), it is possible to verify excess or deficiency of the inspected object.

[0191] According to the information processing system of (5), the inspection time is shortened compared to a configuration in which the quality of an image of the inspection object is verified.

[0192] According to the information processing system of (6), the verification time is shortened compared to a configuration in which verification data having the same resolution as the image read by the image reading unit is used.

[0193] According to the information processing system of (7), the time required for the user to resolve an anomaly is shortened compared to a configuration in which only the verification result is presented.

[0194] According to the information processing system of (8), the user can more easily perform the operation of eliminating the abnormality than in a configuration in which only the improvement instruction is notified to the user.

[0195] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are provided for the purpose of illustration and explanation. In addition, the embodiments of the present invention do not fully and exhaustively include the present invention, and do not limit the present invention to the disclosed embodiments. It is obvious that various modifications and variations are self-evident to those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. The present embodiment is selected and described in order to most easily explain the principles of the present invention and its application. Thus, other technical personnel in this field can understand the present invention through various modifications optimized for specific uses of the assumed various embodiments. The scope of the present invention is defined by the above claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising a processor, The processor performs the following processing: Acquiring verification data of an inspection object composed of a plurality of media on which images are formed and an image read from the inspection object by an image reading unit; and At least one of a direction error and a sequence error of the image of the inspection object is verified based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein When the image of the inspected object is formed on two sides of the medium, the processor causes the image reading unit to read only one side of the medium, and verifies at least one of a direction defect and a sequence defect in the image of the inspected object based on the image of the one side and the verification data.

3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processor verifies whether the image of the inspection object is improperly oriented or improperly ordered based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

4. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The processor verifies excess or deficiency of the inspection object based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

5. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: When verifying at least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspection object, the processor does not verify the quality of the image of the inspection object.

6. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The processor uses the verification data having a lower resolution than the image read by the image reading unit.

7. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The processor suggests a method for eliminating the abnormality based on the verification result of the verified inspection object.

8. The information processing system according to claim 7, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: storing original image data used by the image forming unit in image formation; and When the method for resolving the abnormality is presented, the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data is displayed to the user together with the verification result.

9. A program product having recorded thereon an information processing program for causing a computer to execute a process comprising the following steps: Acquiring verification data of an inspection object composed of a plurality of media on which images are formed and an image read from the inspection object by an image reading unit; and At least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspection object is verified based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

10. An information processing method comprising the following steps: Acquiring verification data of an inspection object composed of a plurality of media on which images are formed and an image read from the inspection object by an image reading unit; and At least one of a direction error and a sequence error in the image of the inspection object is verified based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

Images