Inspection apparatus, image forming apparatus, and display apparatus

Abstract

An inspection apparatus includes: a reading section configured to read a sheet on which an image has been formed; an inspection section configured to inspect a read image that has been read by the reading section; a display device configured to display a display screen including a first display area in which an entirety of the read image can be displayed and a second display area in which a part of the read image is displayed in an enlarged manner; and a controller configured to control the display device, in a case where the inspection section inspects that a first abnormal image exists in the read image, the controller is configured to display the read image in the first display area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an inspection apparatus for performing quality checks on images printed on sheets, and an image forming system including such an inspection apparatus and an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An image forming apparatus generates printed matter by printing an image on a sheet based on image data representing an image to be printed. An inspection apparatus checks whether the image printed on the printed matter is an image formed according to the image data instructions. In the inspection apparatus, image data is set as reference image data, and an image obtained by reading the image printed on the printed matter using a sensor such as a scanner (read image) is set as read image data. The reference image data and the read image data are compared to each other. The print inspection apparatus determines whether the image on the printed matter is an image formed according to the image data instructions based on the degree of consistency between the reference image data and the read image data.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 11,094,048 describes an inspection apparatus for checking whether a read image retrieved from printed material is normal. If an abnormality is determined in the read image, the inspection apparatus displays an image (inspection result image) on a display unit to show the inspection result. In the inspection result image, an image (abnormal image) of the portion determined to be abnormal during the inspection is displayed in a magnified manner based on user operation. Additionally, a reference image is displayed as an inspection benchmark used for comparison with the read image. In this way, abnormal images are easily identified.

[0004] When the printed material is large-format (e.g., long sheets), the display unit may only show a portion of the inspection result image when displaying it in a magnified manner. In this case, the portion of the inspection result image displayed on the display unit may not include the aberration image. This makes it difficult to determine the relationship between the inspection result image and the aberration image, thus making the location of the aberration image in the inspection result image unclear. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An inspection apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a reading unit configured to read a sheet on which an image has been formed; an inspection unit configured to inspect a read image read by the reading unit; a display unit configured to display a display screen including a first display area and a second display area, wherein the entire read image is displayed in the first display area and a portion of the read image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; and a control unit configured to control the display unit, wherein the control unit is configured to, when the inspection unit detects the presence of a first abnormal image in the read image, display the read image in the first display area and display the first abnormal image in a magnified manner in the second display area, and, when the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display area, set the second display area to a first display state, and, when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, set the second display area to a second display state different from the first display state.

[0006] An image forming apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an image forming unit configured to form an image on a sheet; and an inspection device including: a reading unit configured to read a sheet on which an image has been formed; an inspection unit configured to inspect a read image read by the reading unit; a display unit configured to display a display screen including a first display area and a second display area, wherein the entire read image is displayed in the first display area and a portion of the read image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; and a control unit configured to control the display unit, wherein the control unit is configured to display the read image in the first display area and display the first abnormal image in a magnified manner in the second display area when the inspection unit detects the presence of a first abnormal image in the read image, and to set the second display area to a first display state when the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display area, and to set the second display area to a second display state different from the first display state when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area.

[0007] The display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a display unit configured to display a display screen including a first display area and a second display area, wherein the entirety of a read image is displayed in the first display area and a portion of the read image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; and a display control unit configured to control the display unit, wherein if a first abnormal image exists in the read image, the display unit is controlled to display the read image in the first display area and to display the first abnormal image in a magnified manner in the second display area, wherein if the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a first display state, and if the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a second display state different from the first display state.

[0008] The features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of embodiments is given by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram of the image forming system.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the controller configuration.

[0011] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the inspection and control unit.

[0012] Figure 4 This is an example view of the operation screen.

[0013] Figure 5 This is an example view of the settings screen.

[0014] Figure 6 This is an example view of the password input screen.

[0015] Figure 7 This is an example view of the administrator settings screen.

[0016] Figure 8 This is an exemplary view of the inspection results display.

[0017] Figure 9 This is an exemplary view of the inspection results display screen, on which a portion of the inspection results image is displayed in a magnified manner.

[0018] Figure 10This is an exemplary view of the inspection results display screen, on which a portion of the inspection results image is displayed in a magnified manner.

[0019] Figure 11 This is an example view where the zoomed-in image is not displayed.

[0020] Figure 12 This is an example view showing the message.

[0021] Figure 13 This is an illustration of the process used to switch between display screens showing inspection results.

[0022] Figure 14 This is an illustration of the process used to switch between display screens showing inspection results.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a flowchart used to illustrate the print inspection process.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the display process used to show the inspection results.

[0025] Figure 17 This is an exemplary view of the inspection results displayed when multiple abnormal images are shown in a partial image.

[0026] Figure 18 This is an exemplary view of the inspection results displayed when no abnormal images are shown in some of the images. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are not intended to limit the disclosure according to the appended claims, and not all combinations of the features described in the embodiments are necessary for the solutions provided by the present disclosure.

[0028] <Image Forming Systems>

[0029] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram of an image forming system including an inspection apparatus according to this embodiment. The image forming system 1 includes an operation device (operation unit) 200, a printer 300 serving as an image forming apparatus (also called a "printing apparatus"), a controller 400, an inspection device 500, a stacker 600, and a finisher 700 serving as a post-processing apparatus.

[0030] The operating device 200 is a user interface equipped with input and output interfaces. Input interfaces include, for example, buttons and a touch panel. Output interfaces include, for example, a display and a speaker. The operating device 200 transmits commands and data input through the input interfaces to the controller 400. Additionally, the operating device 200 outputs information through the output interfaces in response to commands received from the controller 400.

[0031] The controller 400 controls the operation of the printer 300, inspection unit 500, stacker 600, and finisher 700 based on instructions and data input from the operating device 200 or obtained from an external device via a network. For example, to perform imaging, the controller 400 transmits instructions for imaging to the printer 300. Details of the controller 400 will be described later.

[0032] <Printer>

[0033] The printer 300 in this embodiment is a color image forming apparatus for printing color images on a sheet, but this disclosure can also be applied to a monochrome image forming apparatus for printing monochrome images. The printer 300 includes: image forming units Y, M, C, and K; an intermediate transfer unit 306; a transfer unit 307; a fixing device 308; sheet feed cassettes 311 and 312; and a sheet feed mechanism. The image forming units can function as imagers. Image forming unit Y forms a yellow (Y) image. Image forming unit M forms a magenta (M) image. Image forming unit C forms a cyan (C) image. Image forming unit K forms a black (K) image. The corresponding color images formed by image forming units Y, M, C, and K are transferred onto the intermediate transfer unit 306 in a superimposed manner. The transfer unit 307 transfers the image carried on the intermediate transfer unit 306 onto the sheet. The fixing device 308 fixes the image transferred onto the sheet to the sheet.

[0034] Each image forming unit Y, M, C, and K has the same structure and forms an image through the same operation. The following description refers to the structure of image forming unit Y, and the description of the structure of image forming units M, C, and K is omitted. Image forming unit Y includes a photosensitive drum 301Y, a charger 302Y, an exposure device 303Y, and a developing device 304Y.

[0035] The photosensitive drum 301Y is a drum-shaped photosensitive component with a photosensitive layer on its surface. During operation, the photosensitive drum 301Y rotates about its drum axis in the direction indicated by arrow R1. 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 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. The laser scans the surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 301Y, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the 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. Thus, a yellow image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 301Y. The developing device 304Y is configured such that developer can be continuously supplied to the developing device from a toner cartridge (not shown).

[0036] 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.

[0037] The intermediate transfer unit 306 is an annular belt component that rotates in the direction indicated by arrow R2. The intermediate transfer unit 306 contacts the corresponding photosensitive drums 301Y, 301M, 301C, and 301K. Depending on the rotation of the intermediate transfer unit 306, images of corresponding colors are sequentially transferred from each of the photosensitive drums 301Y, 301M, 301C, and 301K so that they are superimposed on each other. Thus, a panchromatic image is carried on the intermediate transfer unit 306. The intermediate transfer unit 306 then transfers the panchromatic image carried on it to the transfer unit 307 by rotation.

[0038] The sheets are stored in sheet feed cassettes 311 and 312 and conveyed to the transfer unit 307 via a feed mechanism. The sheets are conveyed according to the timing of the image carried on the intermediate transfer member 306 being 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 downstream of the transfer unit 307 along the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer member 306. The cleaner 309 removes the developer residue remaining on the intermediate transfer member 306 after the transfer.

[0039] The sheet on which the image has been transferred is conveyed from the transfer unit 307 to the fixing device 308. The fixing device 308 includes a fixing roller with 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 onto the sheet.

[0040] Conveyor paths 313, 314, and 315, double-sided conveyor path 316, and ejector roller 317 are arranged downstream of the fixing device 308 along the sheet conveying direction. The sheet that has passed through the fixing device 308 is temporarily conveyed from conveyor path 313 to conveyor path 314. After the rear end of the sheet has passed through conveyor path 313, the conveying direction is reversed to convey the sheet from conveyor path 315 to ejector roller 317. Through this conveying, the sheet is ejected from the printer 300 with the image-formed side facing down by ejector roller 317. The printed matter (which is the image-formed sheet ejected from the printer 300 by ejector roller 317) is transferred to inspection device 500. In the case where the sheet is ejected with the image-formed side facing up, the sheet that has passed through the fixing device 308 is not conveyed to conveyor path 313, but is directly conveyed to ejector roller 317 for ejection.

[0041] When double-sided printing is to be performed on the sheet, the sheet conveyed to convey path 314 is conveyed to double-sided convey path 316 after passing through convey path 313 at the rear end. The sheet is then conveyed again to transfer unit 307 via double-sided convey path 316. Due to passing through convey path 314 and double-sided convey path 316, the side of the sheet on which the image has been formed is flipped. The flipped side of the sheet undergoes image transfer processing by transfer unit 307 and fixing processing by fixing device 308, thereby forming an image on this side. The sheet with images formed on both sides is discharged from printer 300 as a printed product via discharge roller 317 and is transferred to inspection device 500.

[0042] <Inspection Device>

[0043] The inspection apparatus 500 includes a conveying path 501, an inspection control unit 510, a first reading unit 5051a, a second reading unit 5051b, flowing reading glasses 5053a and 5053b, conveyor rollers 502 and 503, and a sheet inspection sensor 504. The inspection apparatus 500 functions as a reading device for reading images on a sheet. Under the control of the controller 400, the inspection control unit 510 controls the operation of the inspection apparatus 500. Details of the inspection control unit 510 will be described later. The first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b are arranged opposite each other across the conveying path 501. The flowing reading glass 5053a is disposed between the first reading unit 5051a and the conveying path 501. The flowing reading glass 5053b is disposed between the second reading unit 5051b and the conveying path 501. The conveyor rollers 502 and 503 convey printed materials along the conveying path 501.

[0044] The inspection device 500 detects the printed matter conveyed on the conveyor path 501 using a sheet detection sensor 504, and reads the image printed on the printed matter using a first reading unit 5051a and a second reading unit 5051b. The first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b transmit the reading results of the printed matter to the inspection control unit 510. The inspection control unit 510 performs a quality inspection on the image printed on the printed matter based on the image data used when the printer 300 prints the image onto the sheet and the reading results of the printed matter obtained by the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b. The first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b are arranged opposite each other across the conveyor path 501, and thus read the image printed on both sides of the printed matter in one conveying. The printed matter, whose image has been read, is conveyed from the inspection device 500 to the stacker 600.

[0045] <Stackers and Organizers>

[0046] The stacker 600 includes a large-capacity tray 610 and a clearing tray 620. Based on instructions received from the controller 400 and the results of quality checks performed by the inspection control unit 510, the stacker 600 discharges printed materials to any one of the large-capacity tray 610, the finisher 700, and the clearing tray 620. For example, the stacker 600 discharges printed materials on sheet material whose images have been determined to be defective through quality checks onto the clearing tray 620.

[0047] The finisher 700 includes a print conveyor 710 (which includes multiple conveyor rollers and conveyor paths), an upper conveyor tray 701, an intermediate conveyor tray 702, and a lower conveyor tray 703. The print conveyor 710 includes switching mechanisms 711 and 712 for changing the discharge destination of the prints. The finisher 700 sequentially removes prints from the stacker 600 and, in response to instructions received from the controller 400, discharges each print into any one of the upper conveyor tray 701, the intermediate conveyor tray 702, and the lower conveyor tray 703. The finisher 700 can be configured to perform post-processing, such as binding processing for joining and binding multiple prints, bookbinding processing for bound prints, and trimming processing for bound prints.

[0048] <Controller>

[0049] Figure 2This is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of controller 400. In addition to the operating device 200, printer 300, and inspection device 500 described above, controller 400 is also connected to memory 4100 and power control unit 4500. As interfaces (I / F) with the various components to be connected, controller 400 includes a storage I / F 4318, an operating device I / F 4306, a power control I / F 4308, an inspection unit I / F 4317, a printer communication I / F 4307, and a printer I / F 4316. Controller 400 also includes a connection for communication via a network (…). Figure 2 The communication I / F 4305 communicates with external devices via a local area network (LAN). Storage I / F 4318, communication I / F 4305, operating device I / F 4306, power control I / F 4308, inspection unit I / F 4317, and printer communication I / F 4307 are connected to the system bus 4319. Printer I / F 4316 is connected to the image bus 4311. The system bus 4319 and image bus 4311 are connected via bus I / F 4310.

[0050] The controller 400 is an information processing device including 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 working 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. A non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) 4304 and a timer 4309 are also connected to the system bus 4319. The NVRAM 4304 stores various parameters used for control. The timer 4309 saves the current time and monitors the elapsed time of a set period.

[0051] Operating device I / F 4306 controls communication with operating device 200. Operating device I / F 4306 receives print jobs, commands, and print settings inputs executed from operating device 200 to controller 400, and transmits the input information to CPU 4301. Under the control of CPU 4301, operating device I / F 4306 transmits data used to display various screens and the status of image forming system 1 to operating device 200.

[0052] Under the control of CPU 4301, printer communication I / F 4307 controls communication with printer 300. Power control I / F 4308 instructs power control unit 4500 to supply or stop various powers according to commands received from CPU 4301. Power control unit 4500 supplies power to printer 300. Under the control of CPU 4301, inspection unit I / F 4317 controls communication with inspection device 500. Under the control of CPU 4301, storage I / F 4318 controls communication with memory 4100. Communication I / F 4305 is connected to a network and performs communication control, such as sending and receiving emails and inputting and outputting PDL data from external devices. Communication I / F 4305 also includes NVRAM (not shown) and stores various parameters related to communication control, such as MAC address.

[0053] Bus I / F 4310 is a bridge that connects system bus 4319 and image bus 4311 to each other. In order to transmit image data to printer 300, image bus 4311 is connected to image compression unit 4312, image rotation unit 4313 and raster image processor (RIP) 4314 in addition to printer I / F 4316.

[0054] Image compression unit 4312 performs compression and decompression processing such as JPEG, JBIG, MMR, MH, etc. Image rotation unit 4313 performs image rotation processing. RIP 4314 expands PDL code into a bitmap raster image. Printer I / F 4316 transmits image data to printer 300. The image data to be output to printer 300 is generated by the controller 400 performing image processing for printer 300 (e.g., correction and resolution conversion for printer 300).

[0055] Inspection and Control Department

[0056] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of the inspection control unit 510 provided to the inspection apparatus 500. The inspection control unit 510 controls the operation of the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b. The inspection control unit 510 performs processes such as analysis of the reading results (read images) obtained by the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b, operation control of the inspection apparatus 500, and communication with the controller 400. The inspection apparatus 500 transmits the inspection results of the printed matter to the controller 400. The inspection control unit 510 is connected to a memory 5011 for storing misalignment correction curves, etc., and to the controller 400.

[0057] The inspection control unit 510 includes a CPU 5001, a ROM 5002, a RAM 5003, a storage I / F 5004, a motor control unit 5009, a read image processor 5008, an image processor 5006, an RTC 5012, a host I / F 5007, and a sensor control unit 5010. All components are connected to the system bus 5005. The read image processor 5008 is connected to a first read unit 5051a via a first read I / F 5052a and to a second read unit 5051b via a second read I / F 5052b. The RTC 5012 is a real-time clock that maintains the current time with high precision. The host I / F 5007 controls communication with the inspection unit I / F 4317 of the controller 400. When the inspection control unit 510 and the controller 400 communicate with each other, data is transmitted and received between the host I / F 5007 and the inspection unit 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.

[0058] CPU 5001 executes a computer program stored in ROM 5002 to control the operation of inspection device 500. RAM 5003 provides a working area for CPU 5001 to perform processing. Storage I / F 5004 controls communication with memory 5011 connected to inspection control unit 510. Memory 5011 is a large-capacity storage device such as HDD or SSD. Image data acquired from controller 400 is stored in memory 5011 as reference image data.

[0059] The image processing unit 5008 is controlled by the CPU 5001 to control the first reading unit 5051a via the first reading I / F 5052a, so as to acquire the reading result of the image on the printed matter from the first reading unit 5051a. The image processing unit 5008 is also controlled by the CPU 5001 to control the second reading unit 5051b via the second reading I / F 5052b, so as to acquire the reading result of the image on the printed matter from the second reading unit 5051b. Under the control of the CPU 5001, the image processing unit 5008 performs magnification processing, gamma correction processing, etc., on the reading results of the image on the printed matter acquired from the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b to generate read image data, and stores the read image data in RAM 5003. This read image data is the read image data to be examined.

[0060] Both the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b are provided with, for example, a sensor array, and both are capable of reading the entire area of ​​the printed material being transported on the transport path 501. The first reading unit 5051a reads the image on the first side of the printed material, and the second reading unit 5051b reads the image on the second side of the printed material.

[0061] Both the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b are formed by a light emitter and a light receiver. The light emitter is, for example, formed by a white light-emitting diode (LED). The light receiver is, for example, formed by a CMOS sensor equipped with an RGB color filter. The light emitter is controlled by the CPU 5001 to illuminate the printed material being transported along the transport path 501. The light receiver receives the light reflected from the printed material by separating the light into the three color components of RGB using a color filter, and outputs read image data as the light reception result. The read image data is transmitted to the read image processor 5008.

[0062] Under the control of CPU 5001, motor control unit 5009 controls the operation of various motors installed in inspection device 500. Under the control of CPU 5001, sensor control unit 5010 controls the operation of various sensors installed in inspection device 500 and notifies CPU 5001 of the detection results obtained by the sensors. For example, sensor control unit 5010 notifies CPU 5001 of the detection results of the sheet from sheet detection sensor 504. This notification enables CPU 5001 to detect that the printed material has been transferred from printer 300 to inspection device 500. When CPU 5001 detects that the printed material has been transferred from printer 300 to inspection device 500, CPU 5001 prepares first reading unit 5051a and second reading unit 5051b to read the printed material.

[0063] Image processor 5006 is an inspection unit that performs quality checks on printed materials under the control of CPU 5001 by comparing reference image data stored in memory 5011 with read image data stored in RAM 5003. The reference image data can be not only image data used for imaging by printer 300 as described above, but also image data obtained by pre-reading a reference image before performing quality checks. During comparison, image processor 5006 performs correction processing on the reference image data using calibration-based parameters. If an image abnormality printed on the sheet is determined through quality checks, information such as the location of the abnormal points (abnormal images) and the type of abnormal image (e.g., a blotchy image or a striped image) is obtained. Information indicating the quality check result is transmitted to controller 400.

[0064] <Check Settings>

[0065] Figure 4 This is an exemplary view of an operation screen displayed on the monitor of the operating device 200 during a print inspection process used to generate printed materials and perform quality checks on them. The operation screen displayed on the monitor allows the user to set quality inspection items and instruct the execution of the print inspection process using the input interface of the operating device 200. The inspection device 500 performs the print inspection process according to the set quality inspection items.

[0066] This operation screen allows users to configure print processing and whether to perform quality checks. Using buttons B101 to B105 displayed on this settings screen allows users to select colors (color or monochrome), select sheet type, set the print run destination, and select to perform calibration during printing.

[0067] Button B101 is a setting check button, and when button B101 is pressed, a display is shown on the screen of the operating device 200. Figure 5 The example shown is the inspection settings screen. Button B102 is the print start button, and when button B102 is pressed, the formation of printed matter begins in a manner where the inspection device 500 does not perform quality checks. Button B103 is the cancel button, and when button B103 is pressed, the settings are canceled, and a predetermined initial screen is displayed on the display of the operating device 200. Button B104 is the transport tray setting button for setting the discharge destination of the printed matter. Button B105 is the button for selecting the sheet to be used for printing, and when button B105 is pressed, the size, weight, etc. of the sheet stored in the sheet feed cassettes 311 and 312 can be confirmed and changed, and the sheet feed source can be specified.

[0068] Figure 5 This is an exemplary view of the inspection setting screen displayed on the display of the operating device 200 when button B101 is pressed. The inspection setting screen is used to set the inspection area and inspection type, and the inspection device 500 will perform an inspection such as a quality inspection on the inspection area.

[0069] Area B401 of the inspection settings screen is the display area for the print image to be printed on the sheet and the inspection settings area. Area B401 displays an image based on the print job. With the inspection area type button indicated by buttons B402a to B402d selected, the user sets the inspection area by choosing the image display area in area B401. Button B402a is the "High-Precision Inspection Area" button for setting areas to be inspected with high precision (high-precision inspection area). Button B402b is the "Standard Inspection Area" button for setting areas to be inspected with standard checks (standard inspection area). Button B402c is the "Inspection Exclusion Area" button for specifying areas not to be inspected (inspection exclusion area). Button B402d is the "Data Inspection Area" button for identifying and inspecting areas such as characters or barcodes (data inspection area). The inspection area types are not limited to these four types.

[0070] Buttons B403a and B403b are inspection level setting buttons for setting the inspection level for the corresponding inspection areas. The inspection level is set in stages regarding inspection accuracy, for example, from inspection level 1 to inspection level 5. Users can set the inspection level for the corresponding area using buttons B403a and B403b. Button B403a is used to set the inspection level for key inspection areas. Button B403b is used to set the inspection level for standard inspection areas. In this example, inspection level 1 indicates the lowest inspection accuracy, and the inspection accuracy increases as the inspection level number increases. Button B403e is a verification data selection button. Button B403e is used to select a data file (verification data) as the verification object for the decoding results in the area specified by button B402d. Verification data represents the data of an image to be used to determine if a normal image has been printed on the sheet. Verification data is, for example, a user image including a barcode or serial number.

[0071] Button B404 is the administrator setting button. When button B404 is pressed, the screen displayed on the monitor switches to a password input screen if the check result indicates an abnormality, which then switches to a screen toggling whether access to verification data and submission data is allowed. The submission data corresponds to, for example, reference image data stored in memory 5011. The submission data is data representing an image in which variable data is embedded. The submission data is, for example, PDF data, which includes images of barcodes or serial numbers generated based on a data file in comma-separated values ​​(CSV) format. Button B405 is the check start button. When button B405 is pressed, the print check process begins. Button B406 is the button for returning to the previous screen. When button B406 is pressed, the check setting process is canceled, and the screen displayed on the monitor returns to the previous screen. Figure 4 The print settings screen.

[0072] For example, a user can select the area to be checked using a mouse, touch panel, etc., by selecting button B402a and choosing the area to be checked from area B401. Figure 5 In the example, regions containing shapes such as circles and plus signs are selected as the focus of high-precision checks. Regions containing cylindrical and triangular shapes are excluded from the check because they do not require high-precision checks.

[0073] By setting the inspection level in the manner described above, the memory and processing power required for inspection can be reduced compared to inspecting the entire image without setting an inspection level. Furthermore, by setting the inspection level in stages (e.g., from inspection level 1 to inspection level 5), the memory and processing power required for inspection can be reduced compared to always performing inspections at a high accuracy level.

[0074] Figure 6 This is an exemplary view of the password input screen displayed on the monitor when button B404 is pressed. The password input screen includes a password input section B604, an OK button B605, and a back button B606. In the password input section B604, the user enters a password using the input interface. When the OK button B605 is pressed after the password has been correctly entered, the OK button B605 displays an administrator settings screen on the monitor. The administrator settings screen is a screen that allows switching between allowing access to verification data and submitting data in case the check result indicates an anomaly. The back button B606 is a button for returning to the previous screen, and when the back button B606 is pressed, the password is canceled, and the screen displayed on the monitor returns to the previous screen. Figure 5 The settings screen for checking.

[0075] Figure 7 This is an example view of the administrator settings screen. As mentioned above, it is only applicable when... Figure 6 The administrator settings screen will only be displayed on the monitor after the correct password has been entered on the password input screen. The administrator settings screen is used to configure the display of shortcut buttons for showing data related to abnormal images.

[0076] Button B702 is the data submission confirmation button. When button B702 is set to "ON", a shortcut button for accessing the submitted data is displayed if the check result indicates an abnormality. The shortcut button for accessing the submitted data is described later.

[0077] Button B703 is the verification data confirmation setting button. When button B703 is set to "ON", a shortcut button for accessing the verification data is displayed if the check result indicates an abnormality. The shortcut button for accessing the verification data is described later.

[0078] Button B704 is the verification data editing setting button. When button B704 is set to "ON", a shortcut button for editing verification data is displayed if the check result indicates an abnormality. The shortcut button for editing verification data is described later.

[0079] Button B705 is the OK button. When button B705 is pressed, the screen displayed on the monitor returns to [the previous screen]. Figure 5 The system checks the settings screen, where settings changes made via buttons B702, B703, and B704 are enabled. Button B706 is used to return to the previous screen. When button B706 is pressed, the screen displayed on the monitor returns to the previous screen. Figure 5 The settings screen shows that the settings changes have been cancelled.

[0080] <Screenshot showing an abnormal result from the examination>

[0081] Figure 8 This is an exemplary view of an inspection result display screen obtained when the inspection result of the printed matter indicates an anomaly. When the inspection result obtained by the inspection device 500 indicates an anomaly in the image printed on the sheet, the inspection result display screen is displayed on the monitor. The image displayed on the inspection result display screen is used to show the location of the image determined to be abnormal (abnormal image), the details of the abnormal image, the degree of abnormality, links to relevant information about the details of the abnormal image, etc.

[0082] In area B801, an inspection result image is displayed, which includes an overall image of the printed matter determined to be abnormal by inspection, and the positions of each abnormal image (abnormality display area) within the overall image. Area B801 includes areas B802a and B803a, which serve as abnormality display areas. The abnormality display areas indicate the positions of the abnormal images in area B801.

[0083] Region B802a indicates the location of the first anomalous image within the overall image identified as abnormal through inspection. The first anomalous image is located in... Figure 5 The inspection settings screen displays an abnormal image within an area designated as either a "Standard Inspection Area" or a "Key Inspection Area." Area B803a indicates the location of a second abnormal image within the overall image identified as abnormal during inspection. The second abnormal image is located in... Figure 5 The abnormal images are located in the area set as "Data Inspection Area" on the inspection settings screen.

[0084] Image B802b is a magnified image of region B802a. Image B803b is a magnified image of region B803a. Image B803c is the decoding result of the characters in region B803a. Image B803d indicates verification data, which is the verification result and decoding result of the characters in region B803a.

[0085] In this way, images B802b and B803b to B803d indicate magnified images of the anomalous image, decoding results, and verification data. That is, images B802b and B803b to B803d represent the detail and degree of anomalousness of the anomalous image.

[0086] Image B805 represents the left and right buttons for switching between pages of printed materials identified as defective through inspection. Clicking either the left or right button on image B805 switches the page of the defective printed material. For example, clicking the left button switches to the previous page, and clicking the right button switches to the next page. Button B806 is the inspection end button. Pressing button B806 after the user has confirmed the inspection results of the printed materials ends the inspection.

[0087] Button B808 is a shortcut button for submitting data. Button B808 is displayed when button B702, which serves as the data submission confirmation button, is set to "ON". When the user presses button B808, the screen displayed changes to... Figure 5 The check settings screen allows the user to immediately verify the image (read image) based on the print job displayed in area B401. When button B808 is pressed, the submission data file (based on the print job image) corresponding to the page identified as abnormal can be accessed. Figure 5 The check settings screen is displayed separately in the image viewer, etc.

[0088] Button B809 is a shortcut button for verifying data during data inspection. Button B809 is displayed when button B703, which serves as the verification data confirmation setting button, is set to "ON". When the user presses button B809, the verification data selected by button B403e, which serves as the verification data selection button, is displayed in read-only format, allowing the user to confirm the verification data. Regardless of the inspection settings or the type of inspection, buttons B808 (as the data submission confirmation button) and B809 (as the verification data confirmation button) are always displayed if the inspection result indicates an abnormality.

[0089] Button B810 is a shortcut button for editing verification data. Button B810 is displayed when button B704, which serves as the verification data editing setting button, is set to "ON". When the user presses button B810, the verification data selected by button B403e, which serves as the verification data selection button, is displayed, allowing the user to edit the verification data.

[0090] In this way, buttons B808, B809, and B810 represent shortcut buttons for displaying data related to details of the anomalous image. Users can confirm detailed information related to the anomalous image by pressing buttons B808, B809, and B810.

[0091] In text box B812, the display ratio (%) of the inspection result image displayed in area B801 to the overall inspection result image is shown. The display ratio indicates the proportion of the image displayed in area B801 to the overall image of the inspection result image set to 100%, i.e., the scaling ratio. Figure 8 In the example, the display ratio is 100%. The display ratio can be changed by user actions. When the display ratio is set to less than 100%, a portion (partial image) of the inspection result image is displayed in a magnified manner in area B801 at a scale corresponding to the display ratio.

[0092] exist Figure 8 In this system, users can easily identify the state of abnormal images based on image B802b, which is a magnified image of area B802a. Users can compare the submitted data with image B802b by pressing button B808 to confirm the original submitted data. Users can also easily identify the state of abnormal images based on image B803b, which is a magnified image of the characters in area B803a. Users can confirm both the submitted data and the verification data based on the displayed images B803c and B803d. In other words, users can easily check for errors in the submitted data image or the verification data by appropriately pressing buttons B808, B809, and B810, and can perform appropriate corrections when needed. This shortens the time required for confirmation, checking, and correction, and thus reduces the time and effort required to resolve anomalies.

[0093] <Partial Image Display>

[0094] Regardless of the type of inspection, it displays when an abnormality is found in the inspection results. Figure 8Buttons B808 and B809. As described above, in text box B812, the display ratio (%) of the inspection result image displayed in area B801 to the overall inspection result image is displayed. If the display ratio displayed in text box B812 changes to less than 100%, a portion of the inspection result image is displayed in a magnified manner.

[0095] Figure 9 and Figure 10 These are all exemplary views of the inspection result display screen, shown in a magnified manner. Figure 8 A partial image of the inspection results. In this example, the display ratio is set to 35%. A 35% partial image of the inspection results is displayed in a magnified manner to fit the dimensions of regions B801a and B801b.

[0096] exist Figure 9 In area B801a, displayed in magnified mode Figure 8 The upper left portion of the inspection result image in region B801a. Scroll bars B1001a and B1001b are set for region B801a. When scroll bar B1001a is operated in the left-right direction, the position of a portion of the image in the inspection result image moves horizontally within the inspection result image. When scroll bar B1001b is operated in the up-down direction, the position of a portion of the image in the inspection result image moves vertically within the inspection result image.

[0097] exist Figure 9 In the image displayed in region B801a, the first abnormal image in region B802a is displayed as a magnified image in a normal display state. For the second abnormal image in region B803a, which is not displayed in the partial image displayed in region B801a, the image B803b is displayed as a magnified image in a darkened state (instead of being displayed in a normal display state).

[0098] exist Figure 10 In area B801b, displayed in magnified mode. Figure 8 The lower left portion of the inspection result image in region B801. The scroll bar B1001b is scrolled vertically. Figure 9 When the screen is manipulated and scrolled down to scroll area B801, the following is displayed: Figure 10 The inspection results are displayed on the screen. Figure 10In the image displayed in region B801b, the second abnormal image in region B803a is displayed as a magnified image in a normal display state. For the first abnormal image in region 802a, which is not displayed in the partial image displayed in region B801b, the image B802b is displayed as a magnified image in a darkened state (instead of being displayed in a normal display state).

[0099] As mentioned above, in Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the image, a magnified image corresponding to an anomaly not shown in the portion of the image displayed in magnification in area B801 is shown in a darkened state. By displaying the inspection results in this manner, the magnified image of the anomaly not shown in the portion of the inspection result image can be clearly identified visually, thereby enhancing the user's visibility and improving operability.

[0100] The display state of a magnified image of an abnormal image not shown in the partial image is not limited to a darkened state; any display state different from the normal display state is acceptable. For example, the color of the border around the magnified image can be set to a different color than the normal display (e.g., red). Furthermore, the magnified image can be marked with an X or similar marker to emphasize that it is a magnified image of an abnormal image not shown in the partial image. In another example, when using the mouse pointer as described below, the image density of the magnified image can be changed as the mouse pointer gets closer to the magnified image (e.g., the image density can become lower).

[0101] Enlarged images of abnormal images that are not displayed in some images are not required to be displayed. Figure 11 This is an exemplary view of a state where a magnified image of an abnormal image not displayed in a portion of the image is not shown. Additionally, a message indicating that an abnormal image is not displayed in a portion of the image can be appended to the magnified image of the abnormal image not displayed in a portion of the image. Figure 12 This is an example view showing the message. Figure 12 The message is displayed in a dialog box, but it can also be displayed in a box connected by a guide line, for example.

[0102] Figure 13 and Figure 14 They are all used to Figure 9 The inspection results showed that the screen shifted to Figure 10 The diagram illustrates the process of displaying the inspection results. Figure 13 With Figure 9 Same screen configuration, and Figure 14 With Figure 10 Same screen configuration.

[0103] In the first process, scroll bars B1001a and B1001b are used. For example, when scroll bar B1001b moves downwards in the vertical direction, the display of the result image changes from... Figure 13 Transferred to Figure 14 The scroll bar B1001b is moved using, for example, the mouse pointer B1201. That is, the mouse pointer B1201 is moved to the top of the scroll bar B1001b, and in this state, the scroll bar B1001b is dragged downwards to move downwards. The movement of the mouse pointer B1201 and the resulting dragging are performed using a mouse or a touch panel.

[0104] The second process involves selecting the abnormal image using the mouse pointer B1201. The mouse pointer B1201 is moved or selected using a mouse or touch panel.

[0105] As described above, mouse pointer B1201 is also used to change the display state of a magnified image of an abnormal image that is not displayed in a portion of the image. Figure 13 In the image B803b, when the mouse pointer B1201 is over image B803b, the display state of a magnified image of an abnormal image not previously displayed in a portion of the image within region B801 changes. Under these conditions, the image density of image B803b changes. Figure 14 When the mouse pointer B1201 is over image B802b, the display state of a magnified image of an abnormal image that is not displayed in a portion of the image in region B801 changes. In this case, the image density of image B802b changes.

[0106] Additionally, when a magnified image of an abnormal image is selected using the mouse pointer B1201, a portion of the inspection result image in region B801 can be moved to include the selected portion of the abnormal image. For example, in Figure 13 When the mouse pointer B1201 clicks (selects) image B803b, a portion of the image in region B801 is removed. Figure 13 Image switch Figure 14 The image. In Figure 14 When the mouse pointer B1201 clicks (selects) image B802b, a portion of the image in region B801 is removed. Figure 14 Image switch Figure 13 The image.

[0107] There are also cases where the entire image of the inspection results is displayed in area B801, such as... Figure 8 As shown. In this case, the image in region B801 switches from a full image of the inspection results to an enlarged image including a portion of the abnormal image selected by the mouse pointer B1201. For example, in Figure 8When image B802b is selected using the mouse pointer in the specified state, the overall image in region B801 is switched to... Figure 9 A portion of the image in region B801. Figure 8 When image B803b is selected using the mouse pointer in the specified state, the overall image in region B801 is switched to... Figure 10 A portion of the image in region B801.

[0108] <Print Inspection Processing>

[0109] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the print inspection process. This process is executed collaboratively by the controller 400 (CPU 4301) and the inspection control unit 510 (CPU 5001) of the inspection device 500. Figure 5 The process begins when button B405, which is the start button for the inspection, is pressed on the inspection settings screen.

[0110] When button B405 is pressed via operating device 200, controller 400 sends job information for the print job to inspection device 500. The job information includes sheet information, inspection settings, and ejection destination, etc. (step S901). Inspection control unit 510 obtains the job information from controller 400 (step S902).

[0111] The inspection control unit 510 determines whether the job needs to be inspected based on the inspection settings of the acquired job information (step S903). If the job does not need to be inspected (the result of step S903 is no), the inspection control unit 510 notifies the controller 400 that the preparation for printing the job is complete (step S907).

[0112] If the job requires inspection (the result of step S903 is yes), the inspection control unit 510 sends a request to the controller 400 to send reference image data for inspection determination (step S904). In response to the request to send reference image data obtained from the inspection device 500, the controller 400 sends the image data of the print job as reference image data to the inspection device 500 (step S905). The inspection control unit 510 obtains the reference image data from the controller 400 and stores the reference image data in the memory 5011 (step S906). Once the acquisition of the reference image data is completed, the inspection control unit 510 notifies the controller 400 that the preparation for the print job is complete (step S907).

[0113] When the controller 400 receives a readiness completion notification from the inspection device 500, the controller 400 performs a printing process via the printer 300 (step S908). The controller 400 repeats the printing process until the quantity of printed materials indicated in the print job is obtained (the result of step S909 is yes). If the quantity of printed materials indicated in the print job has been obtained (the result of step S909 is no), the controller 400 waits until it receives the inspection result obtained by the inspection device 500.

[0114] The inspection control unit 510 determines whether the printed material has arrived at the transport path 501 of the inspection device 500 based on the detection result from the sheet detection sensor 504 (step S910). If the printed material has not yet arrived (the result of step S910 is no), the inspection control unit 510 waits until the printed material arrives. If the printed material has arrived (the result of step S910 is yes), the inspection control unit 510 sequentially reads the transported printed material through the first reading unit 5051a and the second reading unit 5051b. The inspection control unit 510 causes the image processor 5006 to perform image inspection by comparing the read image data representing the read result with reference image data (step S911). The inspection control unit 510 stores the inspection result obtained by the image processor 5006 in the RAM 5003 (step S912).

[0115] Subsequently, the inspection control unit 510 determines whether a next page to be printed exists based on the job information obtained from the controller 400 (step S913). When a next page exists (the result of step S913 is yes), the inspection control unit 510 executes the processing steps of step S910 and subsequent steps again to repeat the inspection process. When no next page exists (the result of step S913 is no), the inspection control unit 510 transmits the inspection result stored in RAM 5003 in the processing step of step S912 to the controller 400 (step S914).

[0116] The controller 400 acquires the inspection results obtained by the inspection device 500 (step S915). The controller 400 determines whether there is an abnormality in the acquired inspection results (step S916). When there is no abnormality (the result of step S916 is no), that is, when the image printed on the sheet is normal, the controller 400 ends the printing inspection process. When the image printed on the sheet is abnormal (the result of step S916 is yes), the controller 400 controls the operating device 200 to display the inspection result display screen on the monitor (step S917). When the user confirms the position of the abnormal image on the inspection result display screen and then presses the button B806, which serves as the inspection end button, the controller 400 ends the printing inspection process.

[0117] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the display process used to show the inspection results. In step S917, the controller 400 displays the results on the screen. Figure 8 The inspection results are displayed to perform this processing. When only a single anomaly is present, only a magnified image is displayed.

[0118] Controller 400 determines whether to display a partial image of a portion of the inspection result image (step S1301). Based on, for example... Figure 8 The determination is performed by checking whether the display ratio in text box B812 is set to less than 100%. If a partial image is to be displayed (the result of step S1301 is yes), the controller 400 displays a partial image of the inspection result image corresponding to the display ratio (step S1302). Therefore, as... Figure 10 As shown, a portion of the inspection result image is displayed in a magnified manner in area B801. Scroll bars B1001a and B1001b are also displayed. If the portion of the image is not displayed (the result of step S1301 is negative), the controller 400 determines whether to end the inspection (step S1306).

[0119] The controller 400, which has already displayed a portion of the image, performs a brightness adjustment of the magnified image of the abnormal image (step S1303). The controller 400 performs brightness adjustment by setting the magnified image of the abnormal image displayed in the displayed portion of the image to a normal display state and setting the magnified image of the abnormal image not displayed in the portion of the image to a darkened state.

[0120] The controller 400 determines whether the inspection result image has been scrolled by scroll bars B1001a and B1001b (step S1304). If the inspection result image has been scrolled (the result of step S1304 is yes), the controller 400 returns to the processing step S1302 to display a portion of the inspection result image according to the scrolling direction and scroll amount. Furthermore, it performs a magnified image adjustment of the abnormal image to highlight and darken it.

[0121] If the inspection result image is not scrolling (the result of step S1304 is no), the controller 400 determines whether to return the display of area B801 to the normal inspection result display screen (step S1305). For example, the controller 400 determines whether to move the inspection result display screen from... Figure 9 or Figure 10 The inspection results screen returns to Figure 8 The normal check results are displayed on the screen. This is based on factors such as whether the user has already... Figure 9 or Figure 10The display ratio in text box B812 of the inspection results display screen is changed to 100% to determine whether to return the inspection results display screen to the normal screen. Alternatively, it can be... Figure 9 or Figure 10 The inspection results display screen has a "back" button, and it can determine whether to return the inspection results display screen to the normal screen based on whether the "back" button has been pressed.

[0122] If the inspection result display screen returns to the normal inspection result display screen (if the result of step S1305 is yes), the controller 400 repeats the processing steps of step S1301 and subsequent steps. If the inspection result display screen does not return to the normal inspection result display screen (if the result of step S1305 is no), the controller 400 determines whether to end the inspection (step S1306). This is based on whether the user has pressed the button. Figure 9 or Figure 10 The inspection results are displayed on the screen using button B806 to determine whether to end the inspection. After confirming details such as the location of abnormal images, the user presses button B806 to end the process.

[0123] If the check is about to end (the result of step S1306 is yes), the controller 400 terminates the process. If the check is not about to end (the result of step S1306 is no), the controller 400 repeats the processing steps of step S1305 and subsequent steps.

[0124] In the above example, magnified images of the partial and anomalous images are configured to be displayed on the same inspection result display screen. This disclosure is not limited thereto, and the corresponding images can be configured to be displayed on different screens. Furthermore, the magnified image has been used as a related image corresponding to the anomalous image, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0125] As described above, magnified images of abnormal images not displayed in a portion of the inspection result image are displayed in a different display state than the normal display state. Therefore, the relationship between the portion of the inspection result image displayed on the monitor and the abnormal images can be easily determined. The location of the abnormal images in the inspection result image can also be easily determined.

[0126] The inspection device 500 can be configured as a separate device independent of the image forming system 1. In this case, the inspection control unit 510 of the inspection device 500 is connected to the controller 400 so that communication can be established between them. The inspection device 500 also includes an operating device, which includes a display for showing the inspection results and an input interface for receiving input from the user. Figure 15In the processing, the inspection control unit 510 (CPU 5001) executes the processing steps S916 and S917 after the processing step S913. The inspection control unit 510 (CPU 5001) executes... Figure 16 The processing controls the display of the inspection results screen. In this case, the printed matter ejected from printer 300 is manually supplied to inspection device 500 by the user.

[0127] The inspection device 500 may also have an in-line configuration disposed inside the printer 300. In this case, the first reading unit 5051a, the second reading unit 5051b, and the flowing reading glasses 5053a and 5053b are disposed downstream of the fixing device 308, and read the sheet material for which an image has been fixed by the fixing device 308. The functions of the inspection control unit 510 are disposed in the controller 400.

[0128] The image forming system 1 according to this embodiment is configured to display an inspection result display screen on the display of the operating device 200, but the inspection result display screen can be displayed on the display of another device. For example, the inspection result display screen can be configured to be displayed on the display of an external device, such as a personal computer connected to the image forming system 1 via a communication I / F 4305 so that communication can be performed therebetween.

[0129] In the above description, the display ratio displayed in text box B812 is represented by the ratio (scaling ratio) of the image displayed in area B801 to the overall image of the inspection result image set to 100%. In another example, the display ratio displayed in text box B812 can be represented by the magnification ratio of the inspection result image. A portion of the inspection result image magnified according to the magnification ratio is displayed in area B801.

[0130] When the display ratio is expressed as magnification ratio, Figure 16 In the processing, the controller 400 checks in step S1301 whether the display ratio in text box B812 is set to a value greater than 100% (e.g., 135%). Therefore, the controller 400 determines whether to display a portion of the inspection result image in a magnified manner. If a portion of the image is to be displayed (the result of step S1301 is yes), the controller 400 displays a portion of the inspection result image magnified according to the display ratio (step S1302). Therefore, a portion of the inspection result image is displayed in a magnified manner in area B801.

[0131] <Variant Example>

[0132] In the partial images of the inspection results displayed in area B801, multiple abnormal images may be displayed, or no abnormal images may be displayed. Figure 17 This is an exemplary view of the inspection results displayed when multiple abnormal images are shown in a partial image. Figure 18 This is an exemplary view of the inspection results display screen obtained when abnormal images are not displayed in some images.

[0133] exist Figure 17 In the middle, add region B804a as an anomaly display region. Figure 8 The inspection result image. Region B804a indicates the location of the third anomalous image in the overall image that has been identified as an anomaly by the inspection. The third anomalous image is in Figure 5 The image shows an anomaly in the area designated as "Standard Inspection Area" or "Key Inspection Area" on the inspection settings screen. Image B804b is a magnified image of area B804a.

[0134] In this manner, when multiple abnormal images are displayed in a partial image, magnified images of the corresponding abnormal images are displayed. For the first abnormal image in region B802a and the third abnormal image in region B804a displayed in the partial image displayed in region B801a, images B802b and B804b, as magnified images, are displayed in the same normal display state. For the second abnormal image in region B803a, which is not displayed in the partial image displayed in region B801a, image B803b, as a magnified image, is displayed in a darkened state instead of in a normal display state.

[0135] exist Figure 18 In the middle, the display ratio in text box B812 is reduced, and the magnified portion of the image is larger than... Figure 10 The area is narrower. In this case, region B803a is not included in region B801b, and the abnormal image is not displayed in part of the image. Since the abnormal image is not displayed in part of the image, images B802b and B803b, which are magnified images, are displayed in a darkened state instead of a normal display state.

[0136] According to this disclosure, the location of abnormal images in the inspection result images can be easily determined.

[0137] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to cover all such variations and equivalent structures and functions.

[0138] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-133205, filed on August 8, 2024, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-099619, filed on June 13, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An inspection device, comprising: A reading unit configured to read a sheet on which an image has been formed; An inspection unit is configured to inspect a read image that has been read by the reading unit; The display unit is configured to display a display screen including a first display area and a second display area, wherein the entire read image is displayed in the first display area and a portion of the read image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; as well as A control unit, configured to control the display unit, The control unit is configured to: If the inspection unit detects a first abnormal image in the read image, the read image is displayed in the first display area, and the first abnormal image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; and When the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a first display state; and when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a second display state different from the first display state.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first abnormal image is displayed in a darker manner in the second display state than in the first display state.

3. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the first display state and the second display state differ in the color of the border surrounding the first abnormal image.

4. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the first abnormal image is marked in the second display state.

5. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first abnormal image is displayed in the second display state with a lower image density than in the first display state.

6. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an operation unit configured to zoom in and move the readout image displayed in the first display area.

7. The inspection device according to claim 1, The first abnormal image is displayed in the first display state, and The first abnormal image is not displayed in the second display state.

8. The inspection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second display state relates to a display message indicating that the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area.

9. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein the message is displayed in a dialog box.

10. The inspection apparatus of claim 8, wherein the message is displayed in a box connected by a guide line.

11. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, and the first abnormal image in the second display area is selected, the control unit is configured to perform a switch to display the first abnormal image in the first display area.

12. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein when the first abnormal image in the second display area is selected while the read image is entirely displayed in the first display area, the control unit is configured to perform a switching operation, thereby displaying the first abnormal image in the first display area in a magnified manner.

13. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein when a plurality of first abnormal images are present in the read image and the plurality of first abnormal images are displayed in the second display area, the inspection apparatus is configured to control each of the plurality of first abnormal images displayed in the read image in the first display area to be displayed in the first display state, and to control each of the plurality of first abnormal images not displayed in the read image in the first display area to be displayed in the second display state.

14. An image forming apparatus, comprising: An image forming unit configured to form an image on a sheet; as well as Inspection device, the inspection device comprising: A reading unit configured to read a sheet on which an image has been formed; An inspection unit is configured to inspect a read image that has been read by the reading unit; A display unit configured to display a screen including a first display area and a second display area, wherein the entire read image is displayed in the first display area, and a portion of the read image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; and A control unit configured to control the display unit, wherein the control unit is configured to: If the inspection unit detects a first abnormal image in the read image, the read image is displayed in the first display area, and the first abnormal image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; and When the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a first display state; and when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a second display state different from the first display state.

15. A display device, comprising: The display unit is configured to display a display screen including a first display area and a second display area, wherein the entire read image is displayed in the first display area and a portion of the read image is displayed in a magnified manner in the second display area; as well as A display control unit is configured to control the display unit. If a first abnormal image is present in the read image, the display unit is controlled to display the read image in the first display area and to display the first abnormal image in a magnified manner in the second display area. When the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a first display state; and when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, the second display area is set to a second display state different from the first display state.

16. The display device of claim 15, wherein when a plurality of first abnormal images exist in the read image and the plurality of first abnormal images are displayed in the second display area, the display device is configured to control each of the plurality of first abnormal images displayed in the read image in the first display area to be displayed in the first display state, and to control each of the plurality of first abnormal images not displayed in the read image in the first display area to be displayed in the second display state.

17. The display device of claim 15, wherein the first abnormal image is displayed in a darker manner in the second display state than in the first display state.

18. The display device of claim 15, wherein the first display state and the second display state differ in the color of the border surrounding the first abnormal image.

19. The display device according to claim 15, wherein the first abnormal image is marked in the second display state.

20. The display device according to claim 15, wherein the first abnormal image is displayed in the first display state, and the first abnormal image is not displayed in the second display state.

21. The display device of claim 15, wherein the second display state relates to a display message indicating that the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area.

22. The display device according to any one of claims 15-21, wherein when the first abnormal image is not displayed in the first display area, and the first abnormal image in the second display area is selected, the display control unit is configured to perform a switch to display the first abnormal image in the first display area.

23. The display device according to any one of claims 15-21, wherein when the first abnormal image in the second display area is selected while the read image is entirely displayed in the first display area, the display control unit is configured to perform a switching operation, thereby displaying the first abnormal image in the first display area in a magnified manner.

Images