Inspection apparatus, control method thereof, storage medium, and computer program product

Abstract

The invention provides an inspection apparatus, a control method thereof, a storage medium, and a computer program product. The inspection apparatus according to the present invention comprises: one or more storage devices that store a set of instructions; and one or more processors that execute the instruction set to: acquire a page-by-page reference image corresponding to a printing material; setting an inspection setting of the printing material via the reference image in units of pages; setting, in accordance with a user operation, a first region on the reference image of the first page as an inspection region for matching inspection for inspecting whether information read from the printed image matches among a plurality of inspection regions; and setting a second region as an inspection region of a matching target of the first region on a reference image of a second page different from the first page according to a user operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to inspection apparatus, its control method, storage medium, and computer program products. Background Technology

[0002] Known checks for verifying the correct printing of materials have been performed manually, but in recent years, devices that automate these checks have been used as post-processing for printing machines. In such devices, variable areas (variable data) such as strings or barcodes in variable printing are checked. Examples include data readability checks to verify the legibility of strings or barcodes, and data comparison checks to compare the readability of strings or barcodes with the correct answers. Hereinafter, data readability checks and data comparison checks are referred to as data checks. Additionally, one type of data check is a matching check.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-28314 discloses a method for a matching check, which checks whether the reading results of data check areas set on the front and rear surfaces match.

[0004] However, the aforementioned known techniques have the following problems. Since the methods of the aforementioned known techniques can only check the match between areas on the front surface and areas on the back surface, they cannot perform match checks on areas on a single surface or areas on multiple surfaces. Because the products are limited to those including the data required for front-to-back matching, there is a problem that match checks cannot be performed on a wide range of products. More specifically, using the aforementioned known techniques, it is impossible to identify areas on a single surface or combinations of areas on multiple surfaces as match check targets. Having the computer search for matching check targets throughout the entire print data increases the processing load and is impractical from a performance perspective of the check setup. On the other hand, if the computer cannot properly perform match checks on areas on a single surface or areas on multiple surfaces, manual checks are required. In this case, a significant amount of time is spent on checks, and the check quality deteriorates, thus increasing the possibility of overlooking abnormal print material. If printing continues without considering abnormal print material, consumables (resources) such as paper and ink will be wasted. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention enables a novel mechanism for supporting the inspection settings of printing materials.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides an inspection apparatus comprising: one or more storage devices storing an instruction set; and one or more processors executing the instruction set to perform the following operations: acquiring a page-by-page reference image corresponding to printing material; setting inspection settings for the printing material via the page-by-page reference image; setting a first region on the reference image of a first page as an inspection region for a matching inspection, the matching inspection being used to check whether information read from the printing image matches among a plurality of inspection regions, according to a user operation; and setting a second region on the reference image of a second page different from the first page as an inspection region for a matching target of the first region, according to a user operation.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a control method for an inspection device, the control method comprising: acquiring a reference image on a page-by-page basis corresponding to printing material; and setting inspection settings for the printing material via the page-by-page reference image, wherein, in setting the inspection settings, according to a user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of a first page as an inspection region for a matching inspection, the matching inspection being used to check whether information read from the printing image matches among a plurality of inspection regions; and according to a user operation, a second region is set on the reference image of a second page different from the first page as an inspection region for a matching target of the first region.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing a computer to perform various processes in a control method for an inspection apparatus, the control method including: acquiring a page-by-page reference image corresponding to printed material; and setting inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image, wherein, in setting the inspection settings, according to a user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of a first page as an inspection region for a matching inspection, the matching inspection being used to check whether information read from the printed image matches among a plurality of inspection regions; and according to a user operation, a second region is set on the reference image of a second page different from the first page as an inspection region for a matching target of the first region.

[0009] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a computer program product storing a computer program for causing a computer to perform various processes in a control method for an inspection device, the control method including: acquiring a page-by-page reference image corresponding to printed material; and setting inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image, wherein, in setting the inspection settings, according to a user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of a first page as an inspection region for a matching inspection, the matching inspection being used to check whether information read from the printed image matches among a plurality of inspection regions; and according to a user operation, a second region is set on the reference image of a second page different from the first page as an inspection region for a matching target of the first region.

[0010] The features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of the embodiments is given by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are included in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the textual description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments.

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall construction of an inspection system according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the construction of an information processing apparatus, an inspection apparatus, and a printing apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a software construction according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a job attribute screen according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of an inspection of an information processing apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the reference image registration process of an inspection apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 This is an example diagram showing a UI screen for checking settings according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is an example diagram showing a UI screen with matching check area settings according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9This is an operation flowchart of an inspection apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 10 This is an operation flowchart of a matching inspection device according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figures 11A to 11C This is a diagram illustrating an example of maintaining area information according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 12 This is an example diagram showing a UI screen for checking settings according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 13 This is an example diagram showing a UI screen for checking settings according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] In the following, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Several features are described in the embodiments, but not all such features are necessary, and multiple such features can be appropriately combined. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or similar constructions are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0026] In the following description, the image forming apparatus may be referred to as a multi-functional peripheral device or MFP. In the following text, image forming for forming an image on paper (sheet) may be referred to as printing. Unless otherwise stated, the technology of this disclosure can also be applied to inspection apparatuses that are connected to and processed via networks such as local area networks (LANs) or wide area networks (WANs), provided that the functions of this disclosure are implemented. That is, the system configuration to which the various terminals described in the following embodiments are connected is an example, and it is self-evident that various configuration examples exist depending on the application and purpose.

[0027] First Embodiment

[0028] Inspection system construction

[0029] The first embodiment of this disclosure will be described below. Reference will be made to... Figure 1 The construction of an inspection system including an inspection device according to this embodiment is described. This inspection system is constructed to include an image forming apparatus 100, an inspection unit 110, a high-capacity stacker 120, a client PC 130, an information processing device 140, and an inspection device 150. These devices are communicatively connected to each other via a network 160 and a communication cable 170.

[0030] The image forming apparatus 100 includes a UI unit 101, a paper feed table 102, and a paper feed table 103. Additionally, an optional table 104, including three paper feed tables, is connected to the image forming apparatus 100. Recording sheets, such as printing paper (hereinafter also referred to as paper, sheet, or recording medium), can be set onto each of the tables. The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data (e.g., print data sent from a client PC 130 or an information processing device 140). The image forming apparatus 100 then also includes an inspection unit 110 and a high-capacity stacker 120, and is connected to the inspection unit 110 and the high-capacity stacker 120 via a communication cable serving as an internal bus.

[0031] The inspection unit 110 receives printing material output from the image forming apparatus 100 and acquires image data for inspecting whether there are abnormal images in the received printing material. Here, abnormal images degrade the quality of the printing material. For example, the abnormal image is a circular abnormal image (spot) that appears due to color material adhering to an unintended area during printing, and a linear abnormal image (stripe) that appears due to insufficient color material adhering to the intended area. The acquired image data is then transmitted via communication cable 170 to the inspection apparatus 150, which will be described later, to inspect whether there are abnormal images in the printing material on the inspection apparatus 150, and the inspection result is obtained from the inspection apparatus 150.

[0032] The high-capacity stacker 120 includes a main tray and a top tray, and can stack thousands of sheets of paper on the main tray at a time. It can also receive output paper inspected by the inspection unit 110, and switch the paper discharge destination based on the inspection results of the inspection unit 110.

[0033] The image forming apparatus 100 is communicatively connected to the client PC 130, the information processing apparatus 140, and the inspection apparatus 150 via a network 160. In this embodiment, the inspection apparatus 150 performs inspection, but this is not intended to limit the technology of this disclosure, and an online inspection machine configuration that consistently performs image forming, inspection, post-processing, and paper ejection can be used.

[0034] A print job is generated by the client PC 130, sent to the information processing unit 140 via the network 160, and managed by the information processing unit 140. The print job is then sent from the information processing unit 140 to the image forming unit 100 via the network 160, and the image forming unit 100 performs the printing process on the paper. Note that this can be done in a manner where the print job is generated and managed by the information processing unit 140, sent to the image forming unit 100 via the network 160, and managed by the image forming unit 100.

[0035] Note that the client PC 130, information processing device 140, and inspection device 150 can be connected to a communication cable to communicate with the image forming apparatus 100. That is, the connection configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, information processing device 140, and client PC 130 shown in this embodiment is an example, and it goes without saying that various other connection configurations exist besides those shown in this embodiment. For example, in addition to the inspection unit 110 and stacker 120, binding trimmers, folding machines, bookbinding devices, etc., can be connected to the image forming apparatus 100.

[0036] Construction of each device

[0037] Reference Figure 2 This section describes the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, inspection unit 110, mass stacker 120, client PC 130, information processing apparatus 140, and inspection apparatus 150 in this embodiment. Here, only configurations relevant to the technology disclosed herein will be described, and the various apparatuses are not configured to include only... Figure 2 The device shown.

[0038] Client PC

[0039] Client PC 130 is a personal computer (PC) used to generate print jobs and send them to information processing device 140 via network 160. Client PC 130 includes control unit 230 and UI unit 235. Control unit 230 includes central processing unit (CPU) 231, random access memory (RAM) 232, ROM 233 and network interface (hereinafter referred to as NW I / F) 234.

[0040] The CPU 231 performs control and calculations in various units of the client PC 130 via the internal bus 273, and executes programs stored in ROM 233 and loaded into RAM 232. RAM 232 is a general-purpose volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 231 and serves as the working area of ​​the CPU 231 or another temporary data storage area. ROM 233 serves as a temporary storage area and working memory during client PC operation. NWI / F 234 sends data to and receives data from information processing device 140 via network 160. UI unit 235 includes, for example, a keyboard, mouse, display, and other input / output devices, and is a device capable of inputting various setting values ​​or specified values.

[0041] Information processing device

[0042] The information processing device 140 performs RIP processing on print data or document data and generates a bitmap image for printing by the image forming apparatus 100. The information processing device 140 manages control and print jobs related to printing by the image forming apparatus 100. The information processing device 140 includes a control unit 240 and a UI unit 246. The control unit 240 includes a CPU 241, RAM 242, ROM 243, NW I / F 244, an image processing unit 245, and a video I / F 247.

[0043] The CPU 241 performs control and calculations in various units of the information processing device 140 via the internal bus 274, and executes programs stored in ROM 243 and loaded into RAM 242. RAM 242 is a general-purpose volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 241, and serves as the working area of ​​the CPU 241 or another temporary data storage area. ROM 243 serves as a temporary storage area and working memory during the operation of the information processing device.

[0044] NW I / F 244 communicates with client PC 130, image forming apparatus 100, and inspection apparatus 150 via network 160. This can be achieved in a configuration where inspection apparatus 150 includes NW I / F 255, and information processing apparatus 140 communicates with inspection apparatus 150 via NW I / F 255 and NW I / F 244. For example, consider a case where a RIP image used for printing by image forming apparatus 100 is used as a reference image. Here, the reference image indicates a correct answer image used to compare the printed material with a scanned readout image during inspection. The reference image is the image to be displayed on the setup screen when inspection settings are made, and an inspection area can be set on the reference image displayed on the setup screen. In this configuration, the reference image can be transmitted to the inspection device 150 via communication I / F 214, or via NW I / F 207 and NW I / F 234 from NW I / F 255 included in the inspection device 150. The image processing unit 245 performs RIP processing on the print data.

[0045] UI unit 246 includes, for example, a keyboard, mouse, display, and other input / output devices, and is a device capable of inputting various setting values ​​or specified values. Image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data (e.g., print data sent from client PC 130 or information processing apparatus 140).

[0046] Image forming apparatus

[0047] The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to the UI unit 101 and the paper feed table 260. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 200 and a printer unit 209. The control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, RAM 202, ROM 203, accessory I / F 204, engine I / F 205, paper feed table I / F 206, network I / F 207, image processing unit 208, and video I / F 217. The control unit 200 is connected to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F 205.

[0048] The CPU 201 performs control and calculations in various units of the image forming apparatus 100 via the internal bus (system bus) 270. The CPU 201 executes programs stored in ROM 203 and loaded into RAM 202. RAM 202 is a general-purpose volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 201 and serves as the CPU 201's working area or another temporary data storage area. RAM 202 is used as a temporary storage area and working memory during print apparatus operation. ROM 203 stores program data executed by the CPU 201 when activated, setting data of the control unit 200, etc.

[0049] Attachment I / F 204 is connected to Attachment I / F 215 and Attachment I / F 224 via cable 280. That is, the image forming apparatus 100 communicates with the inspection unit 110 and the high-capacity stacker 120 via Attachments I / F 204, 215, and 224. Engine I / F 205 communicates with and controls the printer unit 209. Paper feed table I / F 206 communicates with and controls the paper feed table 260. Paper feed table 260 refers to the paper feed tables 102 and 103 as hardware components, as well as the optional table 104. UI unit 101 is a user interface for overall operation of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0050] NW I / F 207 is connected to NW I / F 244 of information processing device 140 via network 160, and performs communication between information processing device 140 and image forming device 100. Note that this example takes the form of direct connection between interfaces connected to internal buses 270 and 160, but it is also possible for information processing device 140 and image forming device 100 to be connected to each other via, for example, a network, and the connection form is not limited. Video I / F 217 is connected to video I / F 247 via video cable 180, and performs image data communication between information processing device 140 and image forming device 100. The connection interface in information processing device 140 to image forming device 100 can take the form of combining the functions of NW I / F 244 and video I / F 247. The connection interface in image forming device 100 to information processing device 140 can take the form of combining the functions of NW I / F 207 and video I / F 217.

[0051] The image processing unit 208 performs processing to convert image and document data received from the video cable 180 into print data. The printer unit 209 uses color material to print the received binary bitmap data on a recording sheet.

[0052] Inspection Unit

[0053] The inspection unit 110 controls the transmission of image data acquired by the image reading unit 216 to the inspection apparatus 150, described later, via the communication cable 170. The inspection unit 110 then obtains the inspection results from the inspection apparatus 150 and sends them to the image forming apparatus 100 and the mass stacker 120. The inspection unit 110 includes a control unit 210. The control unit 210 includes a CPU 211, RAM 212, ROM 213, communication I / F 214, accessory I / F 215, and the image reading unit 216.

[0054] The CPU 211 performs control and calculations in various units of the inspection unit 110 via an internal bus, and executes programs stored in ROM 213 and loaded into RAM 212. RAM 212 is a general-purpose volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 211 and serves as the CPU 211's working area or another temporary data storage area. ROM 213 serves as a temporary storage area and working memory during inspection device operation. Communication I / F 214 communicates with the inspection device 150 via communication cable 170 and transmits data such as scanned images and inspection results read by image reading unit 216. Accessory I / F 215 is connected to Accessory I / F 204 and Accessory I / F 224 via cable 280. Image reading unit 216 is an image reading unit that reads printing material supplied from image forming apparatus 100.

[0055] High-capacity stackers

[0056] The high-capacity stacker 120 includes a control unit 220 and a paper ejection unit 225. The control unit 220 includes a CPU 221, RAM 222, ROM 223, and accessory I / F 224. The CPU 221 performs control and calculations in the various units of the high-capacity stacker 120 via an internal bus 272, and executes programs stored in ROM 223 and loaded into RAM 222. RAM 222 is a general-purpose volatile storage device directly accessible from the CPU 221 and serves as the CPU 221's working area or another temporary data storage area. ROM 223 serves as a temporary storage area and working memory during inspection unit operation. The paper ejection unit 225 performs paper ejection operations to the main tray and top tray, and monitors and controls the stacking status of each of the main tray and top tray. The high-capacity stacker 120 can switch paper ejection destinations based on the inspection results of the printing material delivered from the inspection unit 110. For example, in a situation where the paper discharge destination is switched in response to the inspection results regarding the presence of anomalies in the printed material, sheets without anomalies are discharged to normal stacking units, while sheets with anomalies are discharged to the top tray. This can be done in a manner where, regardless of the inspection results, the paper is discharged to the same paper discharge destination.

[0057] Inspection device

[0058] The inspection apparatus 150 is an apparatus for inspecting scanned images of printed material obtained by the inspection unit 110. The inspection apparatus 150 includes a control unit 250 and a user interface (UI) unit 257. The control unit 250 includes a CPU 251, RAM 252, ROM 253, communication I / F 254, network I / F 255, and an inspection processing unit 256. Note that the inspection apparatus 150 according to this embodiment will be described in a form excluding the printing or reading apparatus, but it can be integrally constructed with these apparatuses. For example, the inspection apparatus 150 can be integrally constructed with at least one of the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection unit 110.

[0059] The CPU 251 performs control and calculations in various units of the inspection device 150 via the internal bus 275, and executes programs stored in ROM 253 and loaded into RAM 252. RAM 252 is a general-purpose volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 251 and serves as the CPU 251's working area or another temporary data storage area. ROM 253 serves as a temporary storage area and working memory during inspection device operation. The communication I / F 254 communicates with the inspection unit 110 via the communication cable 170 and transmits data such as scanned images and inspection results read by the image reading unit 216. The network I / F 255 sends and receives data from the client PC 130, image forming apparatus 100, and inspection device 150 via network 160. The inspection processing unit 256 checks for abnormalities in the printed material. UI unit 257 is an example of a display unit, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display connected to the inspection device, and accepts user input to the inspection device and displays the status and inspection results of the inspection device.

[0060] Software Construction

[0061] Reference Figure 3 The software architecture of various devices according to this embodiment is described. Here, only the functional architecture related to the technology of this disclosure will be described, and the various devices are not configured to include only Figure 3 The functional structure shown is illustrated.

[0062] Client PC

[0063] The program of the client PC 130 is stored in ROM 233, read into RAM 232, and executed by CPU 231. The processing functions of CPU 231 are configured to include display control unit 2301 and data control unit 2302.

[0064] The display control unit 2301 controls the display of the screen operated by the user on the UI unit 235. When the user sets a print job via the UI unit 235, the display control unit 2301 stores the print setting information in the RAM 232, and when the user executes printing, it sends the printing execution to the data control unit 2302. The print setting information includes settings such as paper size, single-sided printing, and duplex printing. In addition, it may also include settings such as face-up / face-down and forward / reverse order. The data control unit 2302 sends the print job to the information processing device 140 via the NWI / F 234.

[0065] Information processing device

[0066] The program of the information processing device 140 is stored in ROM 243, read into RAM 242, and executed by CPU 241. The processing functions of CPU 241 are configured to include display control unit 2401, image processing control unit 2402, and data control unit 2403.

[0067] The display control unit 2401 controls the display of the screen operated by the user on the UI unit 246. When the user sets a print job via the UI unit 246, the display control unit 2401 stores the print settings information in the RAM 242, and when the user executes the print job, it sends the print execution to the data control unit 2403.

[0068] The image processing control unit 2402 controls the image processing unit 245. Upon receiving a print request, the image processing control unit 2402 performs RIP processing to convert print data or document data into bitmap image data based on print settings information stored in RAM 242. Specifically, in the case of RIP processing for generating a reference image, for example, a 600 dpi resolution is converted to 300 dpi to generate an image. On the other hand, in the case of RIP processing of print data, a 600 dpi image is generated without reducing the resolution. The image processing control unit 2402 assigns unique image IDs to the RIP images according to the printing order. For example, image ID = 1 is assigned to the RIP image to be printed on the first sheet, and image ID = 2 is assigned to the RIP image to be printed on the second sheet.

[0069] The data control unit 2403 controls the receipt of print jobs from the client PC 130 and controls the sending of print jobs to the image forming apparatus 100. The data control unit 2403 receives print jobs from the client PC 130 via NW I / F 244 and stores the print jobs in RAM 242. Furthermore, the data control unit 2403 sends a print job start notification, print settings information, and a RIP image to the image forming apparatus 100 via NW I / F 244 and video I / F 247. After receiving a registration completion notification for a reference image from the image forming apparatus 100, the data control unit 2403 then sends the print job. To generate a reference image, the data control unit 2403 generates reference image parameters for each page based on the print settings information. The reference image parameters include information such as checking the job ID, image ID, and paper size. The reference image parameters also include information about whether the corresponding sheet is the last sheet of the job. The data control unit 2403 sends the generated reference image parameters to the image forming apparatus 100.

[0070] Image forming apparatus

[0071] The program of the image forming apparatus 100 is stored in ROM 203, read into RAM 202, and executed by CPU 201. The processing functions of CPU 201 are configured to include display control unit 2001, data control unit 2002, image processing control unit 2003, paper feed control unit 2004, printing control unit 2005, and accessory control unit 2006.

[0072] The display control unit 2001 controls the display of the screen operated by the user on the UI unit 101. When the user sets additional print jobs via the UI unit 101, in addition to the settings in the information processing device 140, the display control unit 2001 also stores the print settings information in the RAM 202. The print job settings in the image forming apparatus 100 include settings such as inserting pages for split sheets between jobs or between settings, paper settings, etc. When printing is paused or resumed, the execution of printing is sent to the data control unit 2002.

[0073] The data control unit 2002 controls the receipt of print jobs and notifications from the information processing device 140 and controls their transmission to the inspection device 150. After receiving a print job start notification from the information processing device 140, the data control unit 2002 stores the print settings information and RIP image received via NW I / F 207 and Video I / F 217 into RAM 202. In the reference image registration job, the RIP image and reference image parameters generated and sent by the data control unit 2403 of the information processing device 140 are sent to the inspection device 150 via NW I / F 207. When the generation of the reference image is completed in the inspection device 150 and a reference image registration completion notification is received, a registration completion notification is sent to the information processing device 140. Furthermore, in this print job, image allocation information, described later, is sent. A start notification for the inspection job is sent. The reference image parameters include information based on the print settings information. On the other hand, in addition to information such as single / double information (single-sided printing / double-sided printing) based on print settings, image allocation information also includes rotation, shift amount, print surface (front / back), and sheet number determined by the print control unit 2005 when printing is actually performed on the paper. Examples of this image allocation information may include other information, and are not limited thereto.

[0074] The image processing control unit 2003 controls the image processing unit 208. It acquires the print processing information and RIP image stored in RAM 202 and performs image processing to convert them into print data. This image processing means, for example, rasterizing PDL data, converting it into multi-value bitmap data, and performing image processing, thereby converting it into binary bitmap data. The resulting binary bitmap data is then sent to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F 205.

[0075] Paper feed control unit 2004 controls paper feed table 260 via paper feed table I / F 206. Based on print processing information stored in RAM 202, paper is fed from paper feed table 260 to printer unit 209. Print control unit 2005 controls printer unit 209 via engine I / F 205. Print control unit 2005 issues commands to printer unit 209 to print bitmap data sent from image processing control unit 2003 onto paper on which the feed command was issued by paper feed control unit 2004, based on print processing information. After receiving a notification to pause and resume printing from accessory control unit 2006 (described later), print control unit 2005 instructs printer unit 209 to stop and resume printing based on the notification.

[0076] Based on the print settings information stored in RAM 202, accessory control unit 2006 notifies the mass stacker 120 of the paper ejection destination via accessory I / F 204. Furthermore, accessory control unit 2006 receives print pause / resume notifications from inspection unit 110 and notifies print control unit 2005.

[0077] Inspection Unit

[0078] The program of the inspection unit 110 is stored in ROM 213, read into RAM 212, and executed by CPU 211. The processing functions of CPU 211 are configured to include image reading control unit 2101, data control unit 2102, and accessory control unit 2103.

[0079] Image reading control unit 2101 controls image reading unit 216. Image reading unit 216 has an image-taking function, for example, equipped with a contact image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CIS), and captures images of paper passing through the interior of the inspection unit (hereinafter referred to as scanned images). Note that the CIS of image reading unit 216 is an example of a sensor, which can be another type of sensor such as a CCD image sensor, and its image-taking method is not limited.

[0080] The data control unit 2102 transmits the scanned image to the inspection device 150 via the communication I / F 214. Setting information regarding the inspection operation mode, which will be described later, set by the inspection device 150, is received and stored in the RAM 212. Furthermore, the results of the inspection performed by the inspection device 150 are received.

[0081] The accessory control unit 2103, based on the inspection results received by the data control unit 2102 and the setting information regarding the inspection operation mode, sends control notifications to the image forming apparatus 100 and the mass stacker 120 via accessory I / F 215. When switching the paper ejection destination based on the inspection results, the mass stacker 120 is notified to eject print material without abnormalities to the main tray of the paper ejection unit 225, and to eject print material with abnormalities to the top tray of the paper ejection unit 225. If printing is paused when a certain number of abnormal print materials are continuously ejected, a stop printing notification is sent to the image forming apparatus 100 when the certain number is reached.

[0082] Inspection device

[0083] The program of the inspection device 150 is stored in ROM 253, read into RAM 252, and executed by CPU 251. The processing functions of CPU 251 are configured to include display control unit 2501, data control unit 2502, reference image generation unit 2503, inspection processing control unit 2504, and notification unit 2505.

[0084] The display control unit 2501 displays a screen related to the UI unit 257. The display control unit 2501 controls the display of inspection results performed by the inspection processing control unit 2504 (described later) and stored in RAM 252, as well as the display of screens operated by the user. When the user uses the UI unit 257 to perform inspection settings, the display control unit 2501 stores the inspection setting information in RAM 252.

[0085] The data control unit 2502 receives RIP images, reference image parameters, and image allocation information from the image forming apparatus 100 via NW I / F 255 and stores them in RAM 252. Upon receiving a start notification for an inspection job, it generates a new inspection job and stores it in RAM 252. The data control unit 2502 also stores scanned images transmitted via communication I / F 254 in RAM 252. Furthermore, the data control unit 2502 notifies the inspection unit 110 of the inspection results in the inspection processing control unit 2504 and the inspection setting information stored in RAM 252. When the data control unit 2502 receives a registration completion notification from the reference image generation unit 2503 (described later), it notifies the image forming apparatus 100 that registration is complete.

[0086] The reference image generation unit 2503 stores the inspection settings received at the UI unit 257 in association with the reference image in RAM 252. When the inspection method is RIP inspection, a reference image is generated based on the RIP image, reference image parameters, and image allocation information stored in RAM 252, and stored as a reference image in RAM 252. Furthermore, it determines whether the sheet being inspected is the final sheet based on the reference image parameters. The inspection processing control unit 2504 controls the inspection processing unit 256.

[0087] Here, an overview of the printed image inspection is described. First, the scanned image and the corresponding reference image stored in RAM 252 are read and inspected by comparison. Specifically, feature points are extracted from each of the reference image and the scanned image, and the reference image and the scanned image are aligned based on the extracted feature points. When the difference between the pixel value (brightness value) of the inspected target pixel in the aligned scanned image and the pixel value (brightness value) of the compared target pixel in the reference image is equal to or less than a threshold, the inspected target pixel is determined to pass (normal). Note that the threshold is different for each inspection level. In this inspection, each reference image corresponding to the scanned image is inspected. Note that if the misalignment of the printed position relative to the reference image exceeds a predetermined threshold during alignment, the misalignment inspection is determined to fail (abnormal).

[0088] If the inspection of all pixels is completed, it is determined whether the sum of the pixels identified as failing is equal to or less than the passing threshold, and whether the scanned image is normal. If the sum of the pixels identified as failing is equal to or less than the passing threshold, the scanned image is determined to be normal. If the sum of the pixels identified as failing exceeds the passing threshold, the scanned image is determined to be abnormal. Furthermore, the inspection results, such as information about the presence of abnormalities in the printing material, the type of abnormality detected (spots or streaks), and information about the location of the abnormality, are stored in RAM 252. It is determined whether the sheet being inspected is the last sheet to be inspected based on the image allocation information. The inspection operation mode accepted by the display control unit 2501 is also determined and processed.

[0089] Next, an overview of the data inspection will be described. The inspection processing control unit 2504 processes data as follows: extracting data from strings, barcodes, or QR codes (registered trademarks) in the scanned images initially stored in RAM 252. This is done using a preset character shape font or barcode standard for character recognition (OCR), performing OCR processing on the characters and decoding processing on the barcodes. The character shape font is data in which character shape images and character codes are associated with each other, and is the data required for OCR during the data inspection and matching inspection described later. Character shape fonts can be created by scanning character shapes printed on paper, cutting them out one by one, and having the user input the character codes of the cut-out character images. The created character shape fonts are stored in RAM 252 of the inspection device 150. Here, the method for creating character shape fonts in this embodiment has been described, but the invention is not limited thereto, and any method can be used as long as it is possible to create data in which character codes are associated with individual character images cut out from the scanned images.

[0090] During data checking, a check is performed to determine whether a string or barcode in the area set for the data check is readable. If it is readable, it is determined to pass; if it is unreadable, it is determined to fail. A data comparison check can also be performed to compare the result of reading the string or barcode used to extract data with the corresponding data (correct answer data) in a pre-prepared correct answer CSV file. Here, as a result of the comparison, if the data matches, it is determined to pass; if the data does not match, it is determined to fail. The results of the checks are stored in RAM 252, and include, for example, the result of reading the string or barcode from the printed material, the comparison result with the correct answer data, and the position information of the read character or barcode when it is displayed on the UI unit 257.

[0091] Furthermore, an overview of the matching check will be described. Similar to the data check described above, processing is performed to extract strings, barcodes, and QR codes (registered trademarks) from the scanned image. In the matching check, it is determined whether the data extracted from all areas that are the matching targets matches. If they match, it is determined to pass, and if they do not match, it is determined to fail. The results of the performed checks are stored in RAM 252, and for example, the results of strings or barcodes read from the printed material, the results of data matching or non-matching, and the position information of the read characters or barcodes when they are displayed on the UI unit 257 are stored. After the printed image check, data check, and matching check are completed, the display control unit 2501 instructs the UI unit 257 to display the check results stored in RAM 252. By displaying the check results on the UI unit 257, the user can recognize the check results. The notification unit 2505 notifies the inspection unit 110 via communication I / F 254. The inspection operation mode and inspection results stored in the inspection processing control unit 2504 in RAM 252 are sent to the inspection unit 110.

[0092] High-capacity stackers

[0093] The program for the high-capacity stacker 120 is stored in ROM 223, read into RAM 222, and executed by CPU 221. The processing functions of CPU 221 are configured to include accessory control unit 2201.

[0094] The accessory control unit 2201 controls the paper ejection unit 225. It receives a paper ejection notification from the image forming apparatus 100 or the inspection unit 110, and ejects paper to the main tray or top tray of the paper ejection unit 225 based on the notification content. To notify that printing material has been ejected without causing a paper jam in the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection unit 110, and the high-capacity stacker 120, an external ejection notification is sent to the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection unit 110 when paper ejection is complete.

[0095] Homework settings

[0096] Reference Figure 4 This describes a method for setting up an inspection job according to this embodiment. The inspection method selection screen 400 is an example of a screen for accepting print job settings from a user on the client PC 130. The display control unit 2301, executed by the CPU 231, displays the information on the UI unit 235, accepts input from the user, and stores the input in the RAM 232. The print job generated by the client PC 130 is sent to the information processing device 140 and managed.

[0097] When the user selects "ON" for inspection in the inspection mode setting unit 402 of the inspection method selection screen 400, the attribute settings continue. Here, print jobs set to "ON" for inspection are called "inspection jobs." Note that if "OFF" is selected, for example, 403 to 405 may be displayed grayed out to prevent user selection. When "OFF" is selected, the print job is considered a normal print job that has not been inspected. When the print button 406 is pressed, the print control unit 2005 of the image forming apparatus 100 performs a normal printing operation.

[0098] In the inspection setting unit 403, the user selects the setting method and level for the area to be inspected. When "Default" is selected, the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 inspects the entire surface of the image at a standard level. When "Preset 1" to "Preset 10" are selected, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs inspections based on pre-specified areas and levels. The inspection settings of "Preset 1" to "Preset 10" are stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection device 150, and when the print button 406 is operated, the reference image generation unit 2503 reflects the inspection settings on the reference image.

[0099] When "New Registration" is selected, the user creates new inspection settings, and the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs the inspection based on these settings. When "New Registration" is selected, upon completion of the acceptance of the reference image, the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 displays on the UI unit 257. Figure 7 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The check settings screen 700 is shown below. It will be described later. Figure 7 , Figure 12 and Figure 13Detailed description. The user creates new inspection settings for the reference image, and the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 performs the inspection based on these settings. Note that when the inspection setting unit 403 selects "Default" or "Preset 1 to Preset 10" and operates the print button 406, the display control unit 2501 does not display the inspection setting screen 700. When the user operates the print button 406 on the inspection method selection screen 400, the inspection device 150 registers the reference image without any additional operation upon completion of the acceptance of the reference image.

[0100] In the inspection operation setting unit 404, the user selects a combination of registering the reference image and printing the current print job. When "Register Only" is selected, the reference image generation unit 2503 of the inspection device 150 only registers the reference image and sets its inspection. When "Print Only" is selected, the pre-registered reference image is used for printing by the print control unit 2005 of the image forming apparatus 100 and for inspection by the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150. When "Register and Print" is selected, the above-mentioned "Register Only" and "Print Only" operations are performed consecutively.

[0101] When "scan inspection" is selected in the inspection method selection unit 405, the reference image generation unit 2503 of the inspection apparatus 150 uses a scanned image of the printing material as a reference image for inspection. When "RIP inspection" is selected, the reference image generation unit 2503 of the inspection apparatus 150 sets the RIP image used for printing by the image forming apparatus 100 as the reference image.

[0102] Please refer to later Figure 6 The flowchart describes the generation and storage processing of the reference image. Finally, when the print button 406 is pressed, the display control unit 2301 stores the settings input to 402 to 405 into RAM 232. The data control unit 2302, executed by the CPU 231 of the client PC 130, sends the print job to the information processing device 140. The data control unit 2403, executed by the CPU 241 of the information processing device 140, controls the execution of printing and inspection based on the print setting information about the accepted print job. (See below for further details.) Figure 5 This describes the details of the printing and inspection operations based on the settings. When the close button 401 is pressed, the screen closes without saving the settings of this screen to RAM 232.

[0103] Job execution process

[0104] Reference Figure 5This section describes the processing procedure executed in the information processing apparatus 140 according to this embodiment. The processing described below is achieved, for example, by the CPU 241 of the information processing apparatus 140 expanding the program code stored in ROM 243 into RAM 242, reading and executing the program code expanded into RAM 242. The numbers following "S" in the following description are step numbers indicating the processing order of each flowchart.

[0105] In S501, CPU 241 causes data control unit 2403 to determine the... Figure 4 The check operation setting unit 404 shown is configured to check whether the setting value is "print only". If the setting value is set to "print only", the process proceeds to S505; if the setting value is set to a value other than "print only", the process proceeds to S502.

[0106] In S502, the data control unit 2403 sends the reference image registration job to the image forming apparatus 100. Here, the data control unit 2403 sends the RIP image used as the reference image, various print setting information, etc. Subsequently, in S503, the data control unit 2403 determines whether a registration completion notification has been received from the data control unit 2502 executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150. If a registration completion notification exists, the process proceeds to S504; otherwise, the process enters standby mode.

[0107] In S504, the data control unit 2403 determines the... Figure 4 The check operation setting unit 404 shown in the diagram is set to "Register and Print". If "Register and Print" is set ("Yes" in S504), the process proceeds to S505, and if "Register Only" is set ("No" in S504), the process of this flowchart ends.

[0108] In S505, the data control unit 2403 sends the print job for inspection to the image forming apparatus 100. Here, the RIP image for printing on paper, various print settings information, etc., are sent to the image forming apparatus 100, and the processing of this flowchart ends.

[0109] Registration and processing of reference images

[0110] Reference Figure 6The following describes the processing procedure of the inspection apparatus 150 according to this embodiment when registering a reference image for inspection. The processing described below is achieved, for example, by the CPU 251 of the inspection apparatus 150 expanding the program code stored in ROM 253 into RAM 252, reading and executing the program code expanded into RAM 252. Although the process is general between scan inspection and RIP inspection, the image generation method for the reference image differs depending on whether it is a scan inspection or a RIP inspection.

[0111] In S601, the data control unit 2502, executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150, receives a notification from the image forming apparatus 100 to begin the registration operation of the reference image. Subsequently, in S602, the data control unit 2502 repeats the processes described below in S603 and S604 until all the reference images of the sheets are stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection device 150.

[0112] In S603, if the inspection method is a scan inspection, the data control unit 2502 receives the image scanned by the image reading unit 216 of the inspection unit 110. If the inspection method is a RIP inspection, the data control unit 2502 receives the RIP image and reference image parameters generated by the image processing control unit 2402 of the information processing device 140, and receives print setting information from the image forming device 100. The print setting information can be received from the information processing device 140 or the client PC 130.

[0113] Next, in S604, the reference image generation unit 2503 registers the image received in S603 as a reference image into RAM 252. Here, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the reference image generation unit 2503 processes the RIP image using the received reference image parameters. The processing of the RIP image is either converting the RIP image into an image format that conforms to the scanned image described later for reading during inspection, or converting the image size from the paper size or number of pixels included in the reference image parameters. The reference image generation unit 2503 performs this processing using reference image parameters having image IDs that match the image IDs assigned to the RIP image. The data control unit 2502 stores the print setting information, the processed RIP image, and the reference image parameters into RAM 252. If the inspection method is scan inspection, the reference image generation unit 2503 assigns image IDs relative to the scanned image received by the data control unit 2502 in the following order: image ID = 1 is assigned to the front surface of the first sheet, image ID = 2 is assigned to the rear surface of the first sheet, and image ID = 3 is assigned to the front surface of the second sheet.

[0114] The processes S602 to S605 are repeated until, in S605, the reference image generation unit 2503 determines that the registration of reference images for all paper sheets has been completed. If the inspection method is scan inspection, this process is repeated until printing is complete; and if the inspection method is RIP inspection, this process is repeated until the data control unit 2502 receives a notification indicating that the page is the last page included in the reference image parameters. When the reference image generation unit 2503 determines that the registration of all reference images has been completed, the process proceeds to S606, and the data control unit 2502 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 that the reference image registration is complete, and the process of this flowchart ends. Note that, for example, if the inspection method is scan inspection, the inspection apparatus 150 may take the form of reading multiple images of the same page and registering the composite result as a reference image.

[0115] Check settings

[0116] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The inspection settings according to this embodiment are described. Figure 7 This is an example of an inspection setup screen 700 displayed on a UI unit 257 by a display control unit 2501 of an inspection device 150 for performing inspection settings. The inspection setup screen 700 is configured to include buttons 701 to 704, 711, 712 and 721 to 723, area 705, setting item 731 and setting area 732.

[0117] Button 701 is a button for changing the reference image, and is used when the reference image is changed. Button 702 is a button for selecting an area, and is operated by the user when it is desired to select an area that has already been set. Button 703 is a button for deleting an area, and is operated by the user when it is desired to delete the selected area. Button 704 is a button for rotating the image displayed in area 705.

[0118] Area 705 is a display area used to show the reference image that has been read. If there are multiple sheets to be read, the image to be displayed in area 705 can be switched using button 710.

[0119] Button 711 is an OK button used to store the settings of screen 700. After receiving the operation on OK button 711, the reference image generation unit 2503 stores the reference image and inspection settings in RAM 252. Button 712 is a cancel button used to indicate cancellation of the inspection job without saving the settings of screen 700.

[0120] Button 721 is operated by the user when a new print image inspection area is created. After button operation, the user sets the inspection area against the reference image displayed in area 705. Area 706 indicates an example of setting up a print image inspection area. Button 722 is operated by the user when a new data inspection area is created. Data inspection is either character inspection or barcode inspection. After button operation, the user sets the inspection area on the reference image displayed in area 705. Area 707 indicates an example of setting up a character inspection area. Area 708 indicates an example of setting up a barcode inspection area. (Refer to...) Figure 12 Describes the settings for the data check area. Button 723 is the button operated by the user when a new matching check area is created. After button operation, the user sets the check area on the reference image displayed in area 705. Area 709 indicates an example of the matching check area settings and corresponds to the first area. (Refer to...) Figure 13 The settings for the matching check region are described in detail, which is a feature of the technology disclosed herein.

[0121] Note that in Figure 7 In the diagram, areas 706, 707, 708, and 709 are shown with dashed lines of the same type and color, but can be displayed with different line styles to identify areas that have undergone different processing. For example, the borders of areas that have undergone different processing are displayed with different colors or as single-dotted lines. The display color of the borders can be selected by the user.

[0122] In addition to the print image inspection, character inspection, barcode inspection, and match inspection mentioned above, serial number inspection can be performed. Serial number inspection checks whether strings within regions existing in multiple reference images exhibit regularity. After the user accepts the inspection area, a predetermined rule for the expected inspection is applied. This predetermined rule includes start numbering, end numbering, increment / decrement quantity, offset, etc. For example, the increment / decrement quantity indicates the increment / decrement value, and the offset indicates the increment / decrement of the page interval. Of course, another parameter can be set as a predetermined rule.

[0123] Setting 731 is for misalignment detection, and sets the allowable misalignment amount of the print position relative to the reference image. In this embodiment, an example is shown for a user-specified misalignment case where a misalignment amount of 2 mm or greater is detected. That is, the value specified by the user here corresponds to a threshold in misalignment detection. When a misalignment of the set threshold or greater is detected, it is determined to be an NG (Not Good) check.

[0124] Setting area 732 is a set of UI elements used to configure the currently selected area in area 705. Setting item 733 sets the application scope of the selected area. If no content is selected, the selected inspection area is only placed on the currently displayed page in area 705. When "Same Side as Current Page" is selected, the selected inspection area is placed on a page on the same surface as the sheet, depending on whether the selected inspection area is placed on the front or back surface of the sheet. Note that in the case of RIP inspection, since the reference image is managed on a page-by-page basis rather than a sheet-by-sheet basis, "Odd Page or Even Page" can be used when setting the application scope. When "All Pages" is selected, the selected inspection area is placed on all pages.

[0125] Setting item 734 is for setting anomalies (spots) with a circular shape or anomalies (stripes) with a linear shape, and sets various detection levels. The detection level is a parameter set for each stage, based on which the magnitude of the anomaly is determined for each feature of the detected anomaly. For example, there are five stages from level 1 to level 5, and anomalies that are thinner and smaller in size can be detected in level 5 compared to level 1. Note that the detection levels of this disclosure are not intended to be limited to five stages, and two stages, three stages, seven stages, etc., can be applied. Alternatively, they can be changed in a simulated manner by inputting via an adjustment lever. Levels can be set for individual inspection items, such as spots corresponding to inspection level 5, and stripes corresponding to inspection level 4. Setting item 734 indicates that the user has selected level 4 for the inspection level setting for anomalies (spots) and level 4 for the inspection level setting for anomalies (stripes).

[0126] Inspection settings in the data inspection area

[0127] Figure 12 An example of the inspection settings screen 1200 displayed when button 722 is pressed to set the data inspection area is shown. Here, the differences from the inspection settings screen 700 will be described in detail.

[0128] Settings area 741 is a UI set used to configure the data inspection area displayed when a data inspection area is selected in area 705. Here, we will explain this by assuming area 707 is selected as the currently selected area. Note that it is assumed that in area 705, the selected area and the unselected area are displayed distinctly.

[0129] Setting area 742 defines the application scope of the selected area. If no content is selected, the selected inspection area is only placed on the currently displayed page in area 705. When "Same Side as Current Page" is selected, the selected inspection area is placed on a page on the same surface as the sheet, depending on whether the selected inspection area is placed on the front or back surface of the sheet. When "All Pages" is selected, the selected inspection area is placed on all pages.

[0130] Setting area 743 is used to specify the correct answer CSV file to be compared during comparison checks. Select the file using button 744, and the selected filename will be displayed. Specifying the correct answer CSV file is common to both character and barcode checks.

[0131] In setting area 745, the currently selected data inspection area is set. Here, the direction and character area or barcode inspection area are selected, the font type and barcode type are specified, the presence / absence of the comparison check is performed, and the columns of the correct answer CSV file are specified during the comparison check. Setting item 746 sets the direction of the characters in area 707. Setting items 747 and 748 specify whether the selected area is used for string inspection or barcode inspection. Only one of setting items 747 and 748 can be selected. In selection item 749, if string inspection is selected in setting item 747, the font used for OCR processing of area 707 is set. If setting item 747 is not selected, selection item 749 may be grayed out and therefore inoperable. In selection item 750, if barcode inspection is selected in setting item 748, the barcode type used for decoding area 707 is set. If setting item 748 is not selected, selection item 750 may be grayed out and therefore inoperable. In setting item 751, the presence / absence of the comparison check is set. If the comparison check is set to "exist", then the OCR processing of area 707 is performed using the correct answer CSV file specified in setting area 743 and the column number specified in setting item 752, and a comparison check is performed between the read string and the string specified by the correct answer CSV.

[0132] Check settings for matching check area

[0133] Figure 13 An example of the check settings screen 1300 displayed when button 723 is pressed and a match check area is set is shown. Here, the differences from the check settings screen 700 will be mainly described. A match check is a check regarding whether the reading results of two or more check areas match each other. For example, checking whether the reading results of the area 709 on the first page (first area) and the match check area (second area) set as the match target on a second page different from the first page match each other.

[0134] Setting area 761 is a UI group used to configure the match check area displayed when a match check area is selected in area 705. Here, an explanation will be given assuming area 709 is selected as the currently selected area.

[0135] In area 761, the currently selected matching check area is set. Here, the direction and character area or barcode check area are selected, as well as the font type and barcode type are specified. Setting item 762 sets the direction of area 709. Setting items 763 and 764 specify whether the selected area is used for string checking or barcode checking. Only one of setting items 763 and 764 can be selected. In selection item 765, if setting item 763 is selected, the font used for OCR processing of area 709 is set. If setting item 763 is not selected, selection item 765 may be grayed out and therefore inoperable. In selection item 766, if setting item 764 is selected, the type of barcode used for decoding area 709 is set. If setting item 764 is not selected, selection item 766 may be grayed out and therefore inoperable.

[0136] Here, the matching check area information according to this embodiment will be described. When a matching check area is created, the reference image generation unit 2503 executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 stores the matching check area information (the page number of the reference image, the coordinate information about the area, the orientation, and the font type or barcode type) in the RAM 252. Figures 11A to 11C This is an example of a matching check area set in a reference image and a table stored in RAM 252. Figure 11A This is an example of an inspection setup screen 1300 in the state of creating a matching inspection area against a reference image and a table to be stored in RAM 252. The reference image 1101 indicates the target image to be displayed in area 705 of the inspection setup screen 1300. When a matching inspection area 1102 is generated in the reference image 1101, the reference image generation unit 2503, executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150, creates a new table 1103 and stores it in RAM 252. Table 1103 defines the inspection type "character", font type / barcode type "OCR-B_10pt", page number "1", coordinates 1 to 4 of the four vertices of the rectangular inspection area, and the reading result "01234".

[0137] Description Return to Figure 13 Button 767 is an example of a displayed object; it's a button used to generate the target area for the match check region and transitions to... Figure 8AThe matching target generation settings screen 800 is shown below. In the matching check, matching targets need to be generated on any page and at any location to check data matches in two or more areas.

[0138] Figure 8A This is an example of a matching target generation setting screen 800 displayed on the UI unit 257 by the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 when button 767 is operated and the target area of ​​the matching check area is set. In text box 801, the page number to which the matching target is to be generated can be specified. A single page number can be entered, and inputs can be made to specify individual page numbers (such as "1, 3, 5"), to specify a page range including multiple pages (such as "5-9"), or combinations thereof. Text box 805 sets the number of matching check areas to be generated. When button 806 is operated, the matching target generation setting screen 800 is closed, the information entered into text boxes 801 and 805 is not stored, and the screen returns to the inspection setting screen 1300. On the other hand, when button 807 is operated, a predetermined number of areas are generated in the reference image of the predetermined page based on the information received in text boxes 801 and 805.

[0139] A specific use case will be described. For example, when it is desired to check that multiple data points on the same surface match each other, such as when it is desired to check that five data points on page 3 match, a matching check area is first created on page 3 of the check settings screen 1300. Then, button 767 is pressed, and "3" is entered into text box 801 and "4" is entered into text box 805, thereby additionally creating four matching check areas on page 3, and setting a total of five matching check areas.

[0140] When the display control unit 2501 accepts the creation of a matching check area for the matching target, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching check area information that sets the area to a table and stores it in RAM 252. Figure 11B It shows in Figure 11A The following is an example of the check settings screen 1300 and the table to be stored in RAM 252 in the state of creating a matching check area for different reference images.

[0141] When a matching check region 1105 for a matching target is created on the reference image 1104, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching check region information on the matching check region 1105 to table 1103 and stores it in RAM 252. Note that during the check setup phase, the columns of the read results are blank, and the system is in a state where no content is stored.

[0142] During the check, a match check is performed between regions stored in the same table. Figure 11B In the example, information about match check areas 1102 and 1105 is stored in table 1103, and match checks are performed on these two areas. Match check areas 1102 and 1105 have different character and barcode check types, but the content of the information "01234" is the same, and therefore they are match check targets. In this way, according to this embodiment, combinations of match checks can be processed regardless of whether the check types are the same or different.

[0143] When creating matching check regions for different matching targets, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching check region information to a new table and stores it in RAM 252. Figure 11C An example of a matching check region with different matching targets is shown in the reference image 1104. Figure 11C It shows Figure 11A and Figure 11B An example of the subsequent state. When a new matching check region 1106 is created in the reference image 1104, which serves as the reference image for page 3, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds matching check region information about the matching check region 1106 to table 1107 and stores it in RAM 252. When a matching target for the matching check region 1106 is generated, matching check region information about that region is stored in table 1107. In this way, matching checks are performed between regions stored in the same table.

[0144] Here, an example of performing a match check on regions stored in the same table has been described; however, the reference image generation unit 2503 can take the form of assigning IDs to regions and performing match checks on regions with the same IDs. In this case, for example, region ID = 1 is assigned to the first created match check region and all its matching target regions, and when the user creates a new match check region, region ID = 2 is assigned to that match check region. Region ID = 2 is assigned to the matching target regions of the match check region with region ID = 2. It is clear that there is an association between the regions performing the match check, and the IDs are not limited to those shown here.

[0145] By storing match check region information in a table or ID, these match checks can be performed during the check by associating regions within the same table with each other or by associating regions with the same ID with each other. For example, even if multiple match check regions exist in the baseline image on the same page, the desired match check can be performed based on this association. Match checks can also be performed even if pages in the same table and pages with regions having the same ID are separated from each other, or even if the regions exist on multiple pages. Note that here, as an example, a method for setting regions for data checks and match checks separately is shown; however, for example, it could take the form of providing settings for data checks regarding whether to perform match checks.

[0146] Inspection process

[0147] Reference Figure 9 The processing procedure for the inspection operation according to this embodiment is described. The program for the inspection apparatus according to this process is stored in the ROM 253 of the inspection apparatus 150, read into RAM 252, and executed by the CPU 251. The program for the image forming apparatus is stored in the ROM 203 of the image forming apparatus 100, read into RAM 202, and executed by the CPU 201. The program for the information processing apparatus is stored in the ROM 243 of the information processing apparatus 140, read into RAM 242, and executed by the CPU 241.

[0148] In S901, the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 receives a print job start notification from the image forming apparatus 100 via the data control unit 2502. The CPU 201 of the image forming apparatus 100 instructs the printer unit 209 to print via the print control unit 2005. When the printed paper is conveyed from the image forming apparatus 100 to the inspection unit 110, the CPU 211 of the inspection unit 110 instructs the image reading unit 216 to scan via the image reading control unit 2101.

[0149] In S902, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the data control unit 2502 receives image allocation information from the image forming apparatus 100. Upon receiving the image allocation information, the CPU 251, using the reference image generation unit 2503, reads a RIP image with a matching image ID from the RAM 252, referring to the image ID in the received image allocation information. This RIP image is the one processed using reference image parameters in S604. A reference image is generated using the read RIP image, reference image parameters, and image allocation information, and the generated reference image and image allocation information are stored in the RAM 252. Since the image allocation information includes information determined at print time, in addition to the processing described in S604, a reference image needs to be generated based on the printing conditions on the paper, and thus a reference image is generated during this print job. Here, the reference image generation unit 2503 processes the RIP image based on information such as rotation and shift amounts, and generates the reference image. Note that if the inspection method is scan inspection, the process skips S902 and proceeds to S903.

[0150] In S903, the data control unit 2502 receives the scanned image read by the image reading unit 216 of the inspection unit 110 and stores it in the RAM 252. If the inspection method is RIP inspection, the image ID is assigned to the CPU 241 of the information processing device 140 by the image processing control unit 2402; however, if the inspection method is scan inspection, the image ID is assigned by a method similar to that described in S604.

[0151] In S904, if the inspection method is a RIP inspection, the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 causes the inspection processing control unit 2504 to read a reference image from RAM 252 that has the same image ID as the image ID received in S902. On the other hand, if the inspection method is a scan inspection, the inspection processing control unit 2504 reads a reference image from RAM 252 with the same image ID as the image ID assigned in S903.

[0152] In S905, the inspection processing control unit 2504 uses the reference image read in S904 to check for misalignment in the scanned image received in S904. The misalignment check is as follows: Figure 3 The block diagram illustrates the software configuration of the inspection device 150. When the misalignment check is completed, the process proceeds to S906, and the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the misalignment check passed. If it passed, the process proceeds to S907; otherwise, the process proceeds to S910.

[0153] In S907, the inspection processing control unit 2504 uses the reference image read in S904 to perform image inspection and data inspection on the scanned image received in S903. The image inspection and data inspection are as follows: Figure 3 The block diagram of the software configuration of the inspection device 150 is shown. When image inspection and data inspection are completed, the process proceeds to S908. Note that when no image inspection and data inspection areas are set in the reference image, the process skips S907 and proceeds to S908.

[0154] In S908, the inspection processing control unit 2504 uses the reference image read in S904 to perform a matching check on the scanned image received in S903. (See later...) Figure 10 The flowchart details the matching check process. When the process in S908 ends, the process proceeds to S910.

[0155] In S910, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the sheet being inspected is the last sheet in the inspection job. If the inspection method is scan inspection, the above determination is performed until printing is complete; and if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the above determination is performed based on whether a notification indicating that the page is the last page has been received in the image allocation information received in S902, until printing is complete. If the sheet is not the last sheet, the process proceeds to S909, and if the sheet is the last sheet, the processing of this flowchart ends.

[0156] In S909, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the inspection processing control unit 2504 discards image assignment information regarding the sheet numbers that have already been inspected in S905 to S908. Note that if the inspection method is scan inspection, the processing in S909 is skipped. Afterward, the processing returns to S902, and the processes in S905 to S908 are repeated until no matching inspection areas are found in the page.

[0157] Matching check

[0158] Reference Figure 10 The detailed processing procedure of the matching check (S908) in the inspection device 150 is described below. The process described below is implemented by, for example, the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 expanding the program code stored in ROM 253 into RAM 252, reading and executing the program code expanded into RAM 252. As described above, the matching check is a check used to check whether the reading results of two or more inspection areas match each other. Therefore, the display format of the data does not need to be the same; it can be a string, or a string and a barcode, and can be those data whose final results are read as matching data.

[0159] In S1001, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs data extraction processing. Data extraction processing and reference... Figure 3 The extraction process performed during data inspection is the same as that described in the block diagram of the software structure of the inspection device 150. Subsequently, in S1002, the inspection processing control unit 2504 checks whether the string and barcode in the matching inspection area are readable. If they are readable, it is determined to be a pass, and the reading result is added to a table and stored in RAM 252. On the other hand, if they are unreadable, it is determined to be a failure. If it is determined to be a pass, the process proceeds to S1003, and if it is determined to be a failure, the process proceeds to S1007.

[0160] Store the string of the result read here in the table that stores information about the match check regions. If Figure 11A If the read result in the matching check area 1102 is "01234", the check processing control unit 2504 adds this information to table 1103 and stores it in RAM 252. If it is unreadable, "Read NG" is stored in table 1103. Note that storing "Read NG" is an example, and information that can identify as impossible to read can also be stored.

[0161] In S1007, the inspection processing control unit 2504 stores information indicating failed read checks in RAM 252 and proceeds to S1004. On the other hand, in S1003, the inspection processing control unit 2504 associates the data read in S1001 and S1002 with a table storing matching check region information corresponding to the performed matching check, stores the data as the correct answer data in RAM 252, and proceeds to S1004. Figure 11A In the example, since the read result is "01234", the check processing control unit 2504 stores the information of the correct answer data = 01234 in RAM 252 in association with Table 1103. When assigning an ID to a region, the data read in S1001 and S1002 is stored in RAM 252 as the correct answer data in association with the region ID.

[0162] Next, in S1004, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether there is another matching inspection region in the page of the reference image being inspected. If there is no other matching inspection region in the reference image, the processing of this flowchart ends. If there is another matching inspection region in the reference image, the processing proceeds to S1005. In S1005, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs the matching inspection region extraction processing described in S1001. Subsequently, in S1006, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs the check on whether it is readable as described in S1002. If it is also readable here, it is determined to pass, and the reading result is added to the table and stored in RAM 252. For example, when the region read in S1005 and S1006 is Figure 11B When checking the matching area 1105 as shown, the inspection processing control unit 2504 stores the decoding result of the barcode as a reading result in RAM 252. Here, it is assumed that the reading result of the matching check area 1105 is "01234". If it is determined to be a pass, the process proceeds to S1008, and if it is determined to be a failure, the process proceeds to S1007.

[0163] In S1008, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the correct answer data has been stored in association with a table or region ID that stores information about the matching check region corresponding to the performed matching check. If the correct answer data has been stored, the process proceeds to S1009; otherwise, the process returns to S1003. In S1009, the inspection processing control unit 2504 compares the data read in S1005 and S1006 with the correct answer data. If the data content matches, the process is considered successful; otherwise, it is considered unsuccessful. If the process is successful, the process proceeds to S1010; otherwise, it proceeds to S1011. Figure 11B In the example, although the correct answer data is "01234", the result read in S1005 and S1006 is "01234", and since the two match each other, the matching check is determined to be successful.

[0164] In S1010, the inspection processing control unit 2504 stores information indicating that the matching check areas read in S1005 and S1001 have passed the matching check into RAM 252. Afterward, the process returns to S1004 and continues until there are no more matching check areas in the page. Conversely, in S1011, the inspection processing control unit 2504 stores information indicating that the matching check areas read in S1005 and S1001 have failed the matching check into RAM 252. Afterward, the process returns to S1004 and continues until there are no more matching check areas in the page.

[0165] When the processing control unit 2504 determines in S1004 that there are no other matching check areas in the page, the processing in this flowchart ends, and the processing continues to... Figure 9 The S909. Figure 11C In the example, if the reference image being checked in S1004 is 1104, for example, as a matching check region, there is a matching check region 1106 in addition to the matching check region 1105. If another matching check region exists in this way, the process returns to S1005 without ending the check.

[0166] As described above, the inspection apparatus according to this embodiment acquires a reference image on a page-by-page basis corresponding to the printing material, and sets the inspection settings for the printing material via the page-by-page reference image. In this setting, based on user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of the first page as an inspection region for a matching inspection, which checks whether information read from the printed image matches among multiple inspection regions. In this setting, based on user operation, a second region is set on the reference image of a second page, different from the first page, as an inspection region for the matching target of the first region. According to this embodiment, matching inspection is not limited to a pair of regions existing on the front and back surfaces; it can be performed between regions existing on the same surface, multiple surfaces, or a single surface. By eliminating the limitation on the pages from which matching inspection targets can be set, the types of products for which matching inspection can be performed can be significantly increased.

[0167] Second Embodiment

[0168] In the following, a second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. In the first embodiment, a method for generating match check regions as matching targets based on information on a page and the number of regions input by a user has been described. In order to perform data extraction processing in the regions required for match checking, it is necessary to set the orientation of the regions and the font type and barcode type used in the regions. When the number of match check regions as matching targets increases, setting this orientation, font type, and barcode type for each region requires many steps for the user and the setup load is large. Therefore, in this embodiment, a method for further reducing the setup of match check regions will be described, taking into account the above-mentioned setup load. In the following, with respect to this embodiment, the parts that are different from those in the first embodiment will be mainly described. Note that the parts not described in detail are similar to those in the first embodiment.

[0169] Check settings for matching check area

[0170] The settings on the matching target generation settings screen 800, which are features of this embodiment, are described. Information about the number of pages and regions for which matching targets are to be generated is entered into text boxes 801 and 805, and button 807 is pressed to generate a matching check area as the matching target. Here, based on the information received in text boxes 801, settings 802, and text boxes 803 to 805, a matching check area with the same coordinates, orientation, and font type or barcode type as the first-created matching check area is generated. At this time, a predetermined number of regions are generated in the reference image of the predetermined page. However, the coordinates, orientation, and font type or barcode type of the check area do not necessarily have to be the same as those of the first-created matching check area, and can be in a form where the user can edit the coordinates and settings to any coordinates and settings after generating the matching target.

[0171] According to this embodiment, the orientation, font type, and barcode type of matching check areas existing in various pages can be set by the user in a few steps. Since products with the same font and barcode in the same orientation exist in the matching check areas, setting errors can be prevented compared to setting these parameters in a single area. In summary, the user burden associated with setting matching check areas can be reduced, and convenience can be improved.

[0172] Third Embodiment

[0173] The third embodiment of this disclosure will be described below. In the second embodiment described above, a method for setting the orientation, font type, and barcode type of a matching check area in a few steps has been described. When generating the matching check area for a matching target, in addition to these settings, the number of pages and the number of areas also need to be entered. For example, in products undergoing matching checks, there are cases where it is desirable to print 4 pages of print data for each of 10 people and check the matches of data that is always present on the first page. There are also cases where it is desirable to check the matches of data printed only on odd-numbered pages of a print job throughout the entire print job. When such regular settings are implemented, the burden of repeatedly entering the page number for the check settings arises. With repeated input by the user, input errors may occur, leading to unexpected checks.

[0174] Therefore, in this embodiment, a method for further reducing page setup when generating the matching check region of the matching target, while taking into account the setup load, will be described. In the following, regarding this embodiment, the parts that differ from those in the first and second embodiments will be mainly described. Note that parts not described in detail are similar to those in the first and second embodiments.

[0175] How to set up the matching check area

[0176] The settings on the matching target generation settings screen 800, which are described as features in this embodiment, are used. When repeatedly setting the page to be generated as the matching target for each predetermined page, select... Figure 8A The setting item 802 is used in the settings. If setting item 802 is selected, text boxes 803 and 804 become input-enabled, and if the selection is deselected, text boxes 803 and 804 become grayed out and cannot be input.

[0177] Text boxes 803 and 804 are areas for inputting the rules for repeatedly generating matching target pages. Text box 803 is for inputting the initial page of the first target page as the matching target. Text box 804 is for inputting the interval for repetition of each predetermined page as the target page.

[0178] For example, suppose the following scenario: Each person is expected to print 10 copies of 4-page print data, and the goal is to check for matches among all 10 copies of data present on the first page. In this case, when a match check area is first created on the first page, and then button 767 is pressed, "1" is entered into text box 803 as the initial page, and "4" is entered into text box 804 as the repetition interval, generating a match area every 4 pages. By generating match check areas for every 1 to 4 pages, the matches of all data content in the match check area across the 10 copies can be checked. Suppose the following scenario: It is desired to check for matches of data printed on odd-numbered pages throughout the entire print job. In this case, a match check target is first created on the first page, and "1" is entered into text box 803 and "2" into text box 804, thus setting match check areas on all odd-numbered pages of the job.

[0179] Note that you can enter the page interval number in text box 804. In this case, since the interval number is 3 pages when generating the match check area every 4 pages as described above, enter "3". When generating the match check area for each odd-numbered page, the interval number is 1 page, so enter "1".

[0180] According to this embodiment, in regular print jobs, the number of pages can be set by the user in a small number of steps. By reducing the number of steps for the user, unintended match checks due to user settings errors can be prevented. In summary, the user burden related to page settings in the match check area, which is the match target, can be reduced, and convenience can be improved.

[0181] Fourth embodiment

[0182] A fourth embodiment of this disclosure will be described below. In the first to third embodiments, a method for generating multiple match-checking regions in various pages has been described. When multiple match-checking regions exist, the user needs to correctly set which regions to perform match checks. This is because if incorrect regions are set as match targets, unexpected checks may be performed.

[0183] In this embodiment, a method for displaying a screen that performs a user-desired match check by displaying a list of regions for matching checks will be described. Hereinafter, the differences between this embodiment and the first to third embodiments described above will be primarily described. Note that parts not described in detail are similar to those in the first to third embodiments.

[0184] Check settings for matching check area

[0185] The matching check area list screen 810, which is a feature of this embodiment, will be described. Button 768 on the check settings screen 700 is an example of a display object and is a button used to display a list screen of all areas that have undergone matching checks. When button 768 is pressed, the screen transitions to... Figure 8B The matching check area list shown in screen 810.

[0186] Figure 8B Here is an example: When a reference image and a list of regions that have undergone matching checks are displayed, the matching check region list screen 810 is displayed on the UI unit 257 by the display control unit 2501 of the checking device 150. The list screen 810 is configured to include buttons 811, 813 and 814, a region 812 and a scroll bar 815.

[0187] Button 811 is used to select a page. The page number is displayed on button 811, making the page identifiable, and any of these buttons 811 can be selected when multiple buttons 811 are present. Area 812 is used to display a reference image of the page with the set match check area and the set match check area. When match check areas are set on multiple pages, such as... Figure 8B As shown, the reference images of multiple pages are displayed in ascending order, and the reference images that cannot be displayed can be browsed by operating the scroll bar 815, and button 811 can be selected. Immediately after the matching check area list screen 810 is displayed, the page with the smallest number is selected as button 811 using the initial value.

[0188] Button 813 is used to return to the inspection settings screen 700, and when this button is pressed, the match inspection area list screen 810 closes to return to the inspection settings screen 700. Button 814 is used to move to the reference image of the page selected by button 811, and when this button is pressed, the match inspection area list screen 810 closes to return to the inspection settings screen 700, and the reference image of the page specified by button 812 is displayed.

[0189] When multiple buttons 811 exist, multiple buttons 811 can be selected. In this case, when button 814 is operated, the reference images of the selected page can be displayed side-by-side on the inspection settings screen 700. There may be multiple matching inspection areas existing within the same reference image. In this case, when a matching inspection area is selected, the matching inspection area to be used as the matching target can be highlighted. Highlighting can be achieved by making the areas between matching targets have the same color or the same line shape.

[0190] As described above, according to this embodiment, when multiple matching check areas exist in various pages, it is easy to check which areas need to be matched. This prevents the omission of area settings and matching checks between unexpected areas, and improves the user's visibility when checking matching targets.

[0191] Other embodiments

[0192] Embodiments of this disclosure can also be implemented by a computer of a system or apparatus that reads and executes computer-executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be more fully referred to as a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium") to perform one or more functions of the above embodiments, and / or, the computer includes one or more circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) for performing one or more functions of the above embodiments. Embodiments of this disclosure can also be implemented by a method executed by a computer of a system or apparatus, for example, by reading and executing computer-executable instructions from a storage medium to perform one or more functions of the above embodiments and / or controlling one or more circuits to perform one or more functions of the above embodiments. The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU)) and may include a network of separate computers or separate processors to read and execute computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or storage medium. Storage media may include, for example, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), storage devices for distributed computing systems, optical discs (such as optical discs (CD), digital versatile optical discs (DVD), or Blu-ray discs (BD)). TM One or more of the following: flash memory devices, memory cards, etc.

[0193] Embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (including computer program products of computer programs) that performs the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer (central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device) reads and executes the computer program.

[0194] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An inspection device comprising: One or more storage devices, and their storage instruction sets; as well as One or more processors execute the instruction set to perform the following operations: Obtain a reference image, in pages, corresponding to the printing material; The inspection settings for the printed material are set via the reference image on a page-by-page basis; Based on user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of the first page as a check region for matching check, which is used to check whether the information read from the printed image matches among multiple check regions. and Based on user input, a second region is set on a reference image on a second page, which is different from the first page, as the inspection region for the matching target of the first region.

2. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more processors execute instructions in the one or more storage devices to perform the following operations: The display unit displays a check settings screen, and the check settings are accepted via the check settings screen, which displays the reference image in page units.

3. The inspection device according to claim 2, wherein, The one or more processors execute instructions in the one or more storage devices to perform the following operations: Accept the first area on the reference image of the first page displayed on the inspection settings screen.

4. The inspection device according to claim 3, wherein, The one or more processors execute instructions in the one or more storage devices to perform the following operations: When a display object is selected on the inspection settings screen to start matching multiple inspection areas in the inspection, the display unit displays the settings screen of the matching target. The settings screen accepts the page number for setting the inspection areas and the number of inspection areas to be set through user operation.

5. The inspection device according to claim 4, wherein, On the settings screen of the matching target, at least one of specifying individual page numbers and specifying a page range including multiple pages can be made as the number of pages used to set the inspection area.

6. The inspection device according to claim 4, wherein, On the settings screen of the matching target, the regularity of the page that is the inspection target can be specified as the number of pages used to set the inspection area.

7. The inspection device according to claim 6, wherein, In the setting screen of the matching target, when the second area is repeatedly set for each predetermined page starting from the first page, the regularity of specifying the first page used to set the first area and the predetermined page indicating the repetition interval as the page of the inspection target can be achieved.

8. The inspection device according to claim 4, wherein, The one or more processors execute the instructions in the one or more storage devices to perform the following operations: The setting unit sets the second region corresponding to the first region for each corresponding page based on the information received from the setting screen via the matching target.

9. The inspection device according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more processors execute instructions in the one or more storage devices to perform the following operations: When setting the second region, at least one of the following parameters—the coordinates and orientation of the inspection region, and the font type or code type of the data included in the inspection region—is set to the same parameters as the first region.

10. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more processors execute instructions in the one or more storage devices to perform the following operations: When a display object is selected on the inspection settings screen to display a list of inspection areas for multiple settings in a matching inspection, the settings unit displays a list screen on the display unit. The list screen is used to selectively display a reference image of a page with inspection areas set.

11. The inspection apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, One or more settings are displayed identifiable on the reference image to be displayed on the list screen.

12. The inspection apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, When a predetermined reference image is selected from the reference images displayed on the list screen, the list screen switches to the inspection settings screen of the page corresponding to the predetermined reference image.

13. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The setting unit sets up multiple inspection areas on a single page.

14. The inspection apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, When multiple groups of matching targets are set, the multiple inspection areas include inspection areas for matching targets from different groups.

15. The inspection apparatus according to claim 14, wherein, The plurality of inspection areas include the first area and the second area of ​​the predetermined group of matching targets.

16. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, On the inspection settings screen, in addition to the inspection area and inspection-related parameters of the matching inspection, the following parameters are also set, which are related to the inspection area and inspection of at least one of the printed image inspection and data inspection. The printed image inspection is used to check for misalignment and anomalies in the printed image, and the data inspection is used to check for data to be extracted from strings or codes included in the printed image.

17. A control method for an inspection device, the control method comprising: Obtain a reference image, in pages, corresponding to the printing material; as well as The inspection settings for the printed material are set via the reference image on a page-by-page basis, wherein, In the settings for the aforementioned inspection... Based on user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of the first page as a check region for matching check, which is used to check whether the information read from the printed image matches among multiple check regions. and Based on user input, a second region is set on a reference image on a second page, which is different from the first page, as the inspection region for the matching target of the first region.

18. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing a computer to perform various processes in a control method for an inspection device, the control method comprising: Obtain a reference image, in pages, corresponding to the printing material; as well as The inspection settings for the printed material are set via the reference image on a page-by-page basis, wherein, In the settings for the aforementioned inspection... Based on user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of the first page as a check region for matching check, which is used to check whether the information read from the printed image matches among multiple check regions. and Based on user input, a second region is set on a reference image on a second page, which is different from the first page, as the inspection region for the matching target of the first region.

19. A computer program product storing a computer program for causing a computer to perform various processes in a control method for an inspection device, the control method comprising: Obtain a reference image, in pages, corresponding to the printing material; as well as The inspection settings for the printed material are set via the reference image on a page-by-page basis, wherein, In the settings for the aforementioned inspection... Based on user operation, a first region is set on the reference image of the first page as a check region for matching check, which is used to check whether the information read from the printed image matches among multiple check regions. and Based on user input, a second region is set on a reference image on a second page, which is different from the first page, as the inspection region for the matching target of the first region.

Images