Image processing device, image processing method, and program

Abstract

To improve detection accuracy of defects of a printed matter.SOLUTION: An image processing device includes: inspection means for detecting defects of a printed matter, on the basis of an inspection image obtained by scanning the printed matter and a reference image being a reference of the inspection; and estimation means for estimating a region corresponding to a non-detected defect, on the basis of at least one of the type of the detected defect and the position of the detected defect.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing device, an image processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In the printing industry, prints are inspected for defects to ensure that they are free of defects and of acceptable quality. In recent years, technology to automate inspection work has also been developed. Prints are inspected using the difference between two types of image data: image data that serves as the standard for quality (hereafter referred to as the reference image), and image data of the print to be inspected obtained by capturing an image of the print with a sensor or the like (hereafter referred to as the inspection image). The reference image is image data created using RIP (Raster Image Processor) data created at the time of printing, or image data created by scanning and combining multiple prints.

[0003] In many cases, at inspection sites, in order to control the defects to be detected, workers set a specific inspection level from among multiple inspection levels, and finally visually check the detected defects. In the inspection process, a threshold corresponding to the inspection level is used to extract defects from the difference, so any defects that do not exceed the threshold of the set inspection level are treated as non-defective.

[0004] In response to this, Patent Document 1 discloses a method in which a printed material to be inspected is inspected at a plurality of inspection levels, including the highest inspection level, and the inspection results are presented to an operator for each inspection level. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-92826 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, with the technique of Patent Document 1, some defects may not be detected even when inspection is performed at multiple inspection levels, making it difficult to improve the defect detection accuracy.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT An object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy of detecting defects in printed matter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve this problem, for example, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement: an inspection means for detecting defects in a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by scanning the printed matter and a reference image serving as a reference for the inspection; an estimation means for estimating an area corresponding to an undetected defect based on at least one of a type of the detected defect and a position of the detected defect; The present invention is characterized by comprising: Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the accuracy of detecting defects in printed matter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of a number of printed materials for explaining defects and undetected defects. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a defect caused by an ink drop landing on a print head. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic plan view of defects caused on a printing paper by ink droplets adhering to a print head; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a non-ejecting nozzle. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of a defect caused by a non-ejecting nozzle. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing system including an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 5 is a flowchart of an inspection process executed by the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 5 is a view showing an example of a UI for displaying a printed matter with an undetected defect in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing the process of estimating an undetected defect in S805. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart of a defect information acquisition process in S1001. [Figure 12] 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining a process of determining non-ejection streaks and streaks. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart of the process of estimating an undetected defect in S1008. [Figure 14] 5A to 5C are explanatory diagrams of a method for specifying an area of ​​an undetected defect and a method for determining an undetected defect. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing functions of an image processing device according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for checking and editing a reprint range. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart of an inspection process according to a first modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a warning message displayed when reprinting. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart of an inspection process according to a second embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 is a view showing an example of a UI for displaying a printed matter having an undetected defect in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although the embodiments describe a number of features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any manner. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, the same reference numbers are used for the same or similar configurations, and duplicated descriptions are omitted.

[0012] <First embodiment> In this embodiment, a method will be described in which printed matter that may have an "undetected defect" is presented to a user based on the type of the detected defect.

[0013] <Features of interest> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an "undetected defect that is not detected at a set inspection level but is suspected to be a defect" that is the subject of this invention. When printed matter 101, printed matter 102, printed matter 103, printed matter 104, and printed matter 105 are arranged side by side and printed, defects 106, 107, 108, and 109 with different densities may occur. When a relatively loose inspection level is used for inspection to maintain productivity, it is possible to detect the high-density defect 108 and defect 109, and printed matter 104 and printed matter 105 can be determined to be "defective products". However, it is not possible to detect the low-density defect 106 and defect 107, and printed matter 102 and printed matter 103 are determined to be "non-defective products", and it is not possible to correctly determine whether they are defective products. Hereinafter, the above-mentioned undetectable defects will be referred to as "undetected defects".

[0014] This embodiment has been created by focusing on the characteristic that the possibility of other defects occurring in surrounding printed matter differs depending on the type of defect detected, and will be described below.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view explaining defects caused by ink droplets adhering to the print head of an inkjet printer. Fig. 2(a) is a schematic diagram of ink 201, print head 202, nozzle 203, ejected ink droplets 204, and print paper 205 immediately after printing starts. Print paper is an example of a print medium. Fig. 2(b) is a schematic diagram of ink 201, print head 202, nozzle 203, ejected ink droplets 204, print paper 205, ink droplets 206 that have landed on the print paper 205, and ink droplets 207 that have adhered to the print head 202 after a certain time has elapsed from Fig. 2(a). FIG. 2(c) is a schematic diagram of the ink 201, print head 202, nozzle 203, ejected ink droplets 204, printing paper 205, ink droplets 206 that have landed on the printing paper 205, ink droplets 207 that have adhered to the print head 202, and a defect 208 that has occurred on the printing paper 205 due to the ink droplets 207 that have adhered to the print head 202 dripping after some time has passed since FIG. 2(b).

[0016] The ink droplets 207 adhering to the print head 202 are generated when extremely small ink droplets floating inside the printer land on dust or the like adhering to the print head 202. When a certain amount of ink droplets 207 adhering to the print head 202 gather, they fall vertically due to gravity, causing a defect 208. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a defect 302 that occurs on a printing paper 205 when the ink droplets 207 adhering to the print head 202 fall onto the printing paper 301. Since the defect 302 needs to be formed by the ink droplets 207 adhering to the print head 202, it is rare for the defect 302 to occur continuously. Therefore, the defect 302 is characterized by occurring sporadically in a narrow range. For the sake of simplicity, only the defect caused by the falling of the ink droplets 207 adhering to the print head 202 is described as a sporadic defect. Even when printing with a printer other than an inkjet printer, there are occasional defects that occur (such as toner splatter or missing dots when printing with an electronic printing machine), and these defects are also handled.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a non-ejecting nozzle of a print head of an inkjet printer. FIG. 4(a) is a schematic diagram of the ink 201, print head 202, nozzle 203, ejected ink droplet 204, print paper 205, non-ejecting nozzle 401, and ejected ink droplet 402 immediately after the start of printing. FIG. 4(b) is a schematic diagram of the ink 201, print head 202, nozzle 203, ejected ink droplet 204, print paper 205, and non-ejecting nozzle 401 and ejected ink droplet 402 after a certain time has elapsed from FIG. 4(a), ink droplet 403 that has landed on the print paper 205 from the ejected ink droplet 402, and a location 404 where the ink droplet 402 lands when the ink droplet 402 is ejected from the non-ejecting nozzle 401. The non-ejecting nozzle 401 is in a state where it cannot eject the ink droplet 402 normally due to some cause (for example, nozzle clogging with dust, solidification or thickening of the ink, etc.). Therefore, at location 404, the ink droplet 402 does not land normally, and so there is a portion where the density is lower than it should be.

[0018] 5 is a schematic plan view of a defect 502 caused by a non-ejecting nozzle 401 on a print sheet 501. The defect 502 occurs as long as the non-ejection state continues, and is characterized by the fact that it occurs intermittently over a wide area. Note that, for the sake of simplicity, only defects caused by a decrease in density due to the non-ejecting nozzle 401 have been described as intermittent defects, but this also includes defects such as print position deviation, in which the position of the paper shifts during transport and printing is performed in a position different from the original.

[0019] Using the above features, the present embodiment determines whether the detected defect is a sporadically occurring defect or an intermittently occurring defect based on the type of the detected defect. If the present embodiment determines that the defect is an intermittently occurring defect, it identifies an area of ​​the printed matter that may contain an "undetected defect" based on the defect, and estimates the undetected defect.

[0020] <Overall system description> FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of the entire printing system including an image processing device 600 to which this embodiment is applied. The printing system outputs printed matter and inspects for defects. The printing system of this embodiment has an image processing device 600, a printing server 680, and a printing device 690. The printing server 680 has a function of generating a print job for a document to be printed and inputting the print job to the printing device 690. The printing device 690 has a function of forming an image on a recording medium (roll paper) based on the print job input from the printing server 680. The printing device 690 can use an inkjet printing device or an electrophotographic device. In this embodiment, the printing device is an inkjet printing device. The printing device 690 has a paper feed unit 691, and a user holds a roll paper that has been set in advance so that it can rotate around a horizontal axis, and unrolls and supplies the roll paper to the printing device 690. When a print job is input, the printing device 690 conveys roll paper set in a paper feed unit 691 along a conveying path 692 , forms an image on one or both sides of the paper, and sends it to the image processing device 600 .

[0021] The image processing device 600 of this embodiment performs an inspection process to check for defects on paper, i.e., printed matter, on which an image is formed by a printing device 690 and which is sent through a conveying path 692. The image processing device 600 functions as an inspection processing device. The image processing device 600 has a CPU 601, a RAM 602, a ROM 603, a main memory device 604, an image reading device 605, an interface 606 with the printing device, a general-purpose interface 607, a user interface panel 608, and a main bus 609 inside. The user interface is also referred to as UI. Furthermore, the image processing device 600 has a conveying path 610 for printed matter connected to the conveying path 692 of the printing device 690, and a paper discharge unit 611 for printed matter. The paper discharge unit 611 winds up the roll paper printed by the printing device 690 around a horizontal axis.

[0022] The CPU 601 is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit, and is a processor that comprehensively controls each unit in the image processing device 600. Instead of the CPU 601, or in addition to the CPU 601, the image processing device 600 may have a processor such as an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a QPU (Quantum Processing Unit), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

[0023] The RAM 602 is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory, and functions as a main memory, a work area, etc., of the CPU 601. For example, the RAM 602 functions as a work area when the CPU 601 executes a program, where the program is expanded, and stores data necessary for executing the program.

[0024] The ROM 603 is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory, and stores a group of programs executed by the CPU 601 .

[0025] The main memory device 604 stores applications such as image processing executed by the CPU 601, and data such as parameters used in applications such as image processing. The main memory device 604 may be a non-volatile memory device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0026] The image reading device 605 is, for example, a scanner, and reads one or both sides of the printed matter sent from the printing device 690 on the conveying path 610. In this way, the image reading device 605 can obtain the image printed on the printed matter as image data.

[0027] The interface 606 is connected to a printing device 690. The interface 606 transmits and receives data for synchronizing the timing of processing printed matter with the printing device 690, and also communicates the operating status of both devices.

[0028] The general-purpose interface 607 is connected to an external device etc. so as to be able to transmit and receive data. The general-purpose interface 607 is a serial bus interface such as USB or IEEE1394. This allows the general-purpose interface 607 to take out data such as logs by a user and to input data such as image data to the image processing device 600.

[0029] The user interface panel 608 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and functions as a user interface for the image processing device 600, displaying the current status, settings, and inspection results to inform the user. The user interface panel 608 displays, as the inspection results, image data of print products that have passed the inspection, image data of print products that have failed the inspection because defects were found, and image data of the defects found. Note that the classification of print products may be configured to be more detailed than just two types, pass and fail. The user interface panel 608 also has a touch panel, buttons, etc., and receives instructions from the user.

[0030] The main bus 509 connects a CPU 601, a RAM 602, a ROM 603, a main memory device 604, an image reading device 605, an interface 606 with a printing device, a general-purpose interface 607, and a user interface panel 608 so that they can transmit and receive data to and from one another.

[0031] The CPU 601 outputs various instructions to operate various parts inside the image processing device 600 and the printing system. For example, the CPU 601 can synchronously move the conveying paths, change the conveying speed of the printed matter in accordance with the inspection results, or stop the conveying.

[0032] While conveying the printed matter sent from the printer 690 on the conveying path 610, the image processing device 600 performs an inspection process, described below, based on the image data of the printed matter read by the image reading device 605. The inspection results are stored in the RAM 602 or the main memory device 604. The image processing device 600 sorts the printed matter according to the pass / fail results of the inspection in later processes such as cutting the roll paper and removing waste from label paper. In this way, the image processing device 600 can collect only printed matters whose quality has been confirmed as deliverables for delivery.

[0033] <Explanation of the block diagram of the image processing device> FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining the functions of the image processing device 600 of this embodiment. The image processing device 600 has a print image creation unit 701, an image reading unit 702, a reference image creation unit 703, an inspection processing unit 704, an undetected defect estimation unit 705, and a defect presenting unit 706. For example, the CPU 601 realizes the functions of the print image creation unit 701, the image reading unit 702, the reference image creation unit 703, the inspection processing unit 704, the undetected defect estimation unit 705, and the defect presenting unit 706 by reading and executing a program or application stored in the main storage device 604. In this embodiment, the image processing device 600 receives an input of a control signal to the image processing device 600 transmitted from the printing device 690 in synchronization with the output of a printed matter or as necessary. The image processing device 600 outputs a control signal for the internal operation of the printing system based on the acquisition result of the image reading unit 702, for example.

[0034] The print image creation unit 701 creates RIP data by performing RIP processing on the manuscript data of the print, and outputs a printout on which a picture or text based on the RIP data is printed. The print image creation unit 701 creates a control signal for forming an image represented by the RIP data on paper by the printing device 690, and performs printing.

[0035] Image reading unit 702 captures or scans the printout printed by print image creation unit 701, and generates and outputs data of an inspection image from the captured or scanned image of the printout. In the following description, the term "inspection image" is a concept that includes the inspection image and the data of the inspection image.

[0036] The reference image creation unit 703 acquires RIP data from document data generated based on a print job submitted from the printing server 680, and generates and outputs reference image data based on the RIP data. Alternatively, the reference image creation unit 703 may acquire an inspection image output from the image reading unit 702, and generate and output reference image data. The method of creating the reference image can be specified by the user. In the following description, the term "reference image" is a concept that includes the reference image and the data of the reference image.

[0037] The inspection processing unit 704 acquires the inspection image output from the image reading unit 702 and the reference image output from the reference image creation unit 703 from the image reading unit 702 and the reference image creation unit 703. The inspection processing unit 704 compares the reference image with the inspection image, detects defects in the inspection image based on the difference in image values ​​and the like as the comparison result and the inspection level, and outputs detection information indicating the detection result of the defect in the inspection image. Furthermore, when type information indicating the type of the detected defect exists, the inspection processing unit 704 may output the type information alone, or may add the type information to the detection information and output it. The detection information and type information are examples of the inspection result.

[0038] The undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires inspection information indicating the inspection result, which is the output of the inspection processing unit 704, from the inspection processing unit 704. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 estimates a printed material that may contain an undetected defect in the inspection image based on the inspection information. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 outputs estimated information on the undetected defect, which is the estimated result. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 may estimate an area including an undetected defect, inspect the area for defects at a second inspection level different from the first inspection level, and generate estimated information including information on the newly identified defect. Note that, if there is information on the type of defect detected in the inspection image, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 may acquire the information on the type of defect and use it as reference information when outputting the estimated information on the undetected defect.

[0039] The defect presenting unit 706 acquires the inspection information that is the output of the inspection processing unit 704 and the estimation information of the undetected defect that is the output of the undetected defect estimation unit 705 from the undetected defect estimation unit 705. For example, the defect presenting unit 706 generates an image in which a printed matter including a defect (hereinafter also referred to as a defective printed matter) and a printed matter estimated to include an undetected defect (hereinafter also referred to as an undetected defective printed matter) are marked in a distinguishable manner according to the inspection information and the estimation information, and displays the image on a display or the like.

[0040] 9 shows an example of a user interface screen that displays a printout containing a defect and a printout estimated to contain an undetected defect. For simplicity of explanation, the detected defect will be described as a "non-discharge streak defect."

[0041] As shown in FIG. 9(a), a display window 901 displays the print to be inspected. A plurality of prints are printed periodically on printing paper. When a check box 902 for a defective print is checked and a print is determined to be a defective print, a mark 904 is used to indicate the presence of a defective print 903. A field 900 displays the inspection level (a first inspection level, described later) that the inspection processing unit 704 uses to inspect for defects. Note that the field 900 may display the inspection level value so that it can be changed by scrolling, etc.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 9(b), when the checkbox 906 for undetected defective printed matter is checked, the printed matter estimated to have an undetected defect is displayed using a mark 905 to indicate the presence of an undetected defective printed matter 907.

[0043] 9(c), when checkboxes 902 and 906 are checked, a defective printed matter 903 and an undetected defective printed matter 907 can be displayed simultaneously. In this embodiment, the defective printed matter 903 is surrounded by a rectangular area using mark 904, and the undetected defective printed matter 907 is surrounded by a rectangular area using mark 905, but this display method is one example. Other display methods may be used as long as it is possible to distinguish between defective printed matters, good printed matters that do not contain defects, and undetected defective printed matters.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 9(d), FIG. 9(e), and FIG. 9(f), when a user selects an undetected defective printed matter 908 using an input device such as a touch panel, a screen of a sub-window 910 is displayed. The sub-window 910 includes a field 911 that displays the type of defect contained in the undetected defective printed matter 908, and a field 912 that displays the inspection level at which defects contained in the undetected defective printed matter 908 can be detected. The inspection level in the field 912 may be, for example, a second inspection level used by the undetected defect estimation unit 705 described later. When a user presses or touches a button 914 in the sub-window 910, the value in the field 913 displaying the current inspection level is updated to the value displayed in the field 912. When it is not necessary to update the inspection level, the user presses a button 915 to hide the sub-window 910. In this embodiment, the inspection level is described as "5", which is an intermediate inspection sensitivity. An inspection level of "1" is described as the loosest inspection level, and an inspection level of "10" is described as the strictest inspection level.

[0045] Similarly, when the user selects an undetected defective printed matter 909 using an input device such as a touch panel, a sub-window 916 is displayed. The sub-window 910 includes a column 917 displaying the defect types contained in the undetected defective printed matter 909, and a column 918 displaying the inspection level at which defects contained in the undetected defective printed matter 909 can be detected. When the user presses a button 920, the value in column 919 displaying the current inspection level is updated to the value displayed in column 918. When it is not necessary to update the inspection level, the user can press a button 921 to hide the sub-window 916.

[0046] <Explanation of image processing device flow> 8 is a flowchart of the inspection process executed by the image processing device 600 in this embodiment. The CPU 601 reads out and executes a program following the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0047] In S801, the reference image creation unit 703 in the above-mentioned system configuration creates a reference image. In detail, the reference image creation unit 703 acquires RIP data created from document data by the print image creation unit 701, or an inspection image created by the image reading unit 702. The reference image creation unit 703 performs correction processing according to the acquired data to generate a reference image. Thereafter, the reference image creation unit 703 outputs the reference image and stores it in the main storage device 604. In this embodiment, the reference image is in an 8-bit RGB format. When the reference image creation unit 703 acquires RIP data, it may apply correction processing such as color conversion, thin line correction, and local distortion correction processing of known techniques. When the reference image creation unit 703 acquires an inspection image, it may apply correction processing such as alignment processing and noise removal processing of known techniques. The reference image creation unit 703 may adopt a method of creating a reference image based on an instruction from a user operated on the user interface panel 608. Furthermore, the reference image generating unit 703 may set various parameters required for the correction process by referring to a data storage destination designated by the user on the user interface panel 608 .

[0048] In S802, the image reading unit 702 in the system configuration described above creates an inspection image. In detail, the image reading device 605 captures an image of the printed matter printed by the print image creation unit 701, converts it into digital data, and creates an inspection image. The image reading unit 702 stores the created inspection image in the main memory device 604. In this embodiment, the inspection image is in an 8-bit RGB format. When creating an inspection image from a printout, the image reading unit 702 may perform brightness correction processing, position alignment processing, and the like, in order to increase the similarity with the reference image.

[0049] In S803, the inspection processing unit 704 in the above-mentioned system configuration executes the inspection process. The inspection processing unit 704 acquires a reference image and an inspection image. The inspection processing unit 704 performs a defect detection process for the inspection image based on the difference between the reference image and the inspection image and the first inspection level. The inspection processing unit 704 generates and outputs defect detection information for identifying a defective printed matter through the inspection process. Furthermore, when the inspection processing unit 704 detects a defect, it may output defect type information (e.g., dots, streaks, misalignment of print position, non-ejection streaks, etc.) together with the detection information. In this embodiment, the defect detection process uses a known technique. For example, a difference image showing the difference between the reference image and the inspection image is generated, and the difference in the difference image is compared with a threshold value corresponding to the inspection level, and an area where the difference exceeds the threshold value is detected as a defective area. In this case, it is assumed that the inspection level and the threshold value are associated in advance and stored in the main storage device 604 or the like. In the defect detection process, a filter process or the like may be used to detect defects by type.

[0050] In S804, the inspection processing unit 704 in the above-mentioned system configuration executes a process of determining whether or not there is a defect. The inspection processing unit 704 acquires defect detection information, which is the processing result of S803, and executes S805 if it determines that there is a defect, and executes S806 if it does not determine that there is a defect.

[0051] In S805, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 in the above-mentioned system configuration executes undetected defect estimation processing. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires detection information of the detected defects determined in S804. Furthermore, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires defect type information, if any, together with the detection information. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 estimates an undetected defect based on the detection information and type information. A detailed flow of S805 will be described later.

[0052] In S806, if there are any printed materials remaining to be inspected, the image processing apparatus 600 repeats the processes from S802 to S805, and if there are no printed materials remaining to be inspected, ends the inspection process.

[0053] <Explanation of the process flow of undetected defect candidate confirmation process S805> 10 is a flowchart showing the undetected defect estimation process in step S805 according to this embodiment. The CPU 601 reads out and executes a program according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0054] In S1001, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires the defect detection information that is the output of S804. If there is defect type information, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 may acquire it together with the detection information. If there is no defect type information, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 generates and outputs type information of the detected defect based on the acquired detection information. A detailed flow will be described later.

[0055] In S1002, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 refers to the result of S1001, and if it is determined that the type of the detected defect indicates a "pock", it executes S1006, and if not, it executes S1003.

[0056] In S1003, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 refers to the result of S1001, and if it is determined that the type of the detected defect indicates a "streak", it executes S1006, and if not, it executes S1004.

[0057] In S1004, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 refers to the result of S1001, and if it is determined that the type of the detected defect indicates a "non-discharge streak", it executes S1007, and if not, it executes S1005.

[0058] In S1005, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 refers to the result of S1001, and if it is determined that the type of the detected defect indicates "print position deviation", it executes S1007, and if not, it executes S1008.

[0059] In S1006, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the defect type is a “dot” or a “streak”, it determines that the defect type is a “sporadic defect”. Note that the names of the defect types described here are merely examples, and any name that can be distinguished from the defect types in S1007 may be used.

[0060] In S1007, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the defect type is a "non-discharge streak" or a "print position deviation," the defect type is determined to be an "intermittent defect." Note that the names of the defect types described here are merely examples, and any name that can be distinguished from the defect types in S1006 may be used.

[0061] In S1008, if the defect type is an intermittent defect, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 outputs estimation information of the undetected defect. A detailed flow will be described later.

[0062] <Explanation of the process flow of S1001, the process for acquiring defect information> Fig. 11 is a flowchart of the process of acquiring defect information in S1001 executed by the undetected defect estimation unit 705 in this embodiment. The CPU 601 reads and executes a program according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 11. Note that the inspection processing unit 704 may execute the processes from S1103 in Fig. 11 onwards when determining the type of defect and generating and outputting defect type information.

[0063] In S1101, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the information acquired together with the detection information includes defect type information, it executes S1102, and if it determines that the defect type information does not exist, it executes S1103.

[0064] In S1102, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 sets and outputs the defect type of the detected defect based on the defect type information acquired together with the detection information, and executes S1002.

[0065] In S1103, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 calculates the area and circularity of the detected defect. For example, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 may calculate a target object and a rectangular area inscribed in the object, which is a known technique, and calculate the circularity from the ratio between the area of ​​the target object and the area of ​​the inscribed rectangular area.

[0066] In S1104, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the circularity calculated in S1103 is equal to or greater than a preset circularity threshold value, it executes S1105, and if it determines that the circularity is not equal to or greater than a preset circularity threshold value, it executes S1108.

[0067] In S1105, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the area calculated in S1103 is equal to or greater than a preset first area threshold, it executes S1106, and if it determines that the area is not equal to or greater than a preset first area threshold, it executes S1107.

[0068] In S1106, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 sets the type of the detected defect to "Pochi", outputs it, and executes S1002.

[0069] In S1107, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines whether the defect is a print position misalignment. If the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the defect is a print position misalignment, it sets the type of the detected defect as "print position misalignment" and executes S1002. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 may determine the print position misalignment using a known technique, for example, it may calculate local motion vectors of the reference image and the inspection image, and determine that the defect is a print position misalignment if it is determined that the sum or maximum of the motion vectors is equal to or greater than a preset vector threshold value.

[0070] In S1108, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the area calculated in S1103 is equal to or greater than a second area threshold value set in advance, it executes S1109, and if it determines that the area is not equal to or greater than a second area threshold value set in advance, it executes S1107.

[0071] Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining classification of non-discharge streaks and streaks. In S1109, when the undetected defect estimation unit 705 detects a defect 1201 having an area equal to or greater than the second area threshold as shown in Fig. 12(a), it calculates a numerical value for determining the type of defect for a range 1202 including the defect 1201. Fig. 12(b) shows an enlarged view of the range 1202. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires pixel values ​​of pixels that are the defect 1201, and calculates the average value Defect_Ave of the pixel values.

[0072] In S1110, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires pixel values ​​of pixels in the area 1203 in Fig. 12B, and calculates the average value Around_Ave of the pixel values. Note that the area 1203 is an area other than the defect 1201 within the range 1202 including the defect 1201.

[0073] In S1111, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 compares the average value Defect_Ave with the average value Around_Ave, and if it determines that the average value Around_Ave is greater than the average value Defect_Ave, it executes S1112, and if it determines that this is not the case, it executes S1113.

[0074] In S1112, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 sets the type of the detected defect as "non-discharge streak", outputs it, and executes S1002.

[0075] In S1113, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 sets the type of the detected defect to "streak", outputs it, and executes S1002.

[0076] <Description of the process flow of the undetected defect estimation process S1008> Fig. 13 is a flowchart of the undetected defect estimation process of S1008 executed by the undetected defect estimation unit 705 in this embodiment. The CPU 601 reads out and executes a program according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 13. Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of a printed matter in the process of the flowchart shown in Fig. 13.

[0077] In S1301, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires the defect detection information output from S803, and acquires information about the printed matter including the defect.

[0078] In S1302, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 calculates representative coordinates of the printed matter including the defect acquired in S1301. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 may use, for example, any of the center coordinates of the printed matter including the defect, the center of gravity coordinates of the printed matter including the defect, and the coordinates of the defect as the representative coordinates. Note that when the undetected defect estimation unit 705 uses the coordinates of a defect as the representative coordinates, if multiple defects are included in one printed matter, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 may use the coordinates of any one of the defects as the representative coordinates.

[0079] In S1303, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 counts the number of calculated representative coordinates and determines whether the number is a predetermined number or more. Specifically, if the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that the number of representative coordinates is two, it executes S1304, and if the number is three or more, it executes S1306. The number of representative coordinates is also the number of printed matter containing defects.

[0080] In S1304, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 calculates a line segment connecting the representative coordinates of the two points calculated in S1302.

[0081] In S1305, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 uses the line information calculated in S1304 to calculate an area including the printed matter located on the line as an area of ​​undetected defects. Note that, if the number of defects detected on the line in either the conveying direction or the recording direction of the printed matter is two or more, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 may determine that the line is an area of ​​undetected defects.

[0082] In S1306, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 calculates a plane that includes all the representative coordinates, using the representative coordinates calculated in S1302.

[0083] In S1307, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 uses the plane information calculated in S1306 to calculate an area including the printed matter located within the plane as an area of ​​an undetected defect.

[0084] In S1308, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 performs inspection at a second inspection level on the printed matter in the area including the undetected defect to identify the printed matter including the newly detected defect. The second inspection level may be a fixed value or may be a value input by the user in the field 912 in FIG. 9.

[0085] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a method for identifying an area of ​​an undetected defect and a method for determining an undetected defect. A printed matter 1401 and a printed matter 1402 shown in FIG. 14(a) are defective printed matters containing defects. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines printed matters on a line segment connecting the representative coordinates of the printed matter 1401 and the representative coordinates of the printed matter 1402 as an area 1403 of an undetected defect. Furthermore, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 performs defect inspection at a second inspection level on printed matters in the area 1403 of an undetected defect. As a result, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that, for example, a printed matter 1404 shown in FIG. 14(b) contains a defect that was undetected in the inspection processing of the inspection processing unit 704.

[0086] 14(c) are defective printed matter containing defects. The undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines a plane formed by the representative coordinates of the printed matter 1405, the representative coordinates of the printed matter 1406, and the representative coordinates of the printed matter 1407 as an undetected defect region 1408. Furthermore, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 performs inspection at the second inspection level on the printed matter in the undetected defect region 1408. As a result, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines that, for example, the printed matter 1409 shown in FIG. 14(d) contains a defect that was undetected in the inspection processing by the inspection processing unit 704.

[0087] Through the above process, by performing the process of S1008 based on the type of defect detected, it becomes possible to identify printed matter that may contain undetected defects and immediately check whether or not there is a printed matter that contains undetected defects. This is expected to reduce the oversight of inspection of defective products due to operator operation errors (e.g., setting an inspection level lower than the actual level) and to facilitate checking printed matter for undetected defects, thereby reducing the workload of the user.

[0088] As described above, the image processing device 600 of the first embodiment estimates a printed material that includes an undetected defect based on the type of defect and the location of the defect indicated by the detection information related to the detected defect, etc. This allows the image processing device 600 to estimate a printed material that may include an undetected defect, thereby improving the accuracy of defect detection.

[0089] The image processing device 600 detects defects at a first inspection level, and detects defects at a second inspection level for printed matter that may contain undetected defects estimated based on the detected defects. This allows the image processing device 600 to inspect printed matter that is likely to contain undetected defects for defects, thereby reducing the processing load of defect inspection. Furthermore, the image processing device 600 can improve the accuracy of defect detection by differentiating the first inspection level from the second inspection level. In particular, the image processing device 600 can increase the accuracy of defect detection by raising the second inspection level above the first inspection level, but can suppress an increase in the processing load by limiting the detection to printed matter estimated to contain undetected defects.

[0090] When the image processing device 600 determines that the type of defect is an intermittent defect such as a "non-discharge streak," it estimates an undetected defect. This allows the image processing device 600 to reduce unnecessary processing while improving the accuracy of defect detection. Furthermore, in the case of an intermittent defect, the image processing device 600 estimates an undetected defect based on the transport direction or recording direction of the printed matter, so that it is possible to reduce the defect estimation processing for areas where the possibility of a defect being present is low.

[0091] When the detected defect is an intermittent defect and the number of printed products in which the defect is detected is two or more, the image processing device 600 determines the line segment including the printed products as an undetected defect region, and can therefore determine an area that is likely to include an undetected defect as an undetected defect region. Furthermore, when the image processing device 600 determines the line segment along the transport direction or the recording direction including the printed products as an undetected defect region, it can determine an area that is more likely to include an undetected defect as an undetected defect region.

[0092] When the detected defect is an intermittent defect and the number of printed matter in which defects are detected is three or more, the image processing device 600 designates the plane including the printed matter as an area of ​​undetected defects, and therefore can designate an area that is likely to include an undetected defect as an area of ​​undetected defects.

[0093] The image processing device 600 displays printed matter including detected defects and printed matter including undetected defects in a distinguishable manner. This allows the image processing device 600 to present printed matter including undetected defects that are likely to be defects to the user in an easily recognizable manner. As a result, the image processing device 600 can reduce the burden on the user who inspects for defects.

[0094] The image processing device 600 displays the second detection level, so that the user can recognize at what level the undetected defects will be re-inspected.

[0095] The image processing device 600 displays the second detection level so that it can be changed by the user, and therefore can accommodate a detection level desired by the user.

[0096] When the image processing device 600 determines that the type of defect is sporadic, it does not infer an undetected defect, and therefore it is possible to eliminate processes that are unlikely to detect a defect, thereby further reducing the processing load.

[0097] <First Modification> This modified example describes a method of reprinting on roll paper based on the printout of the undetected defect candidates estimated in S805.

[0098] <Explanation of the block diagram of the image processing device> 15 shows a system configuration of an image processing device 600 relating to the inspection processing of this modified example. The image processing device 600 has a print image creation unit 701, an image reading unit 702, a reference image creation unit 703, an inspection processing unit 704, an undetected defect estimation unit 705, a defect presenting unit 706, and a reprint job creation unit 1501. The print image creation unit 701, the image reading unit 702, the reference image creation unit 703, the inspection processing unit 704, the undetected defect estimation unit 705, and the defect presenting unit 706 of this modified example are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0099] A reprint job creation unit 1501 acquires detected defect information, which is the output of the inspection processing unit 704, and estimated information of undetected defects, which is the output of the undetected defect estimation unit 705, from a defect presentation unit 706. The reprint job creation unit 1501 executes a job creation process for performing reprinting based on the defect information and the estimated information, and creates and outputs a reprint job.

[0100] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for confirming and editing the reprint range. As shown in FIG. 16(a), the reprint job creation unit 1501 sets the union of the defective printed matter acquired in S803 and the printed matter that is likely to include undetected defects calculated in S805 as the printed matter 1601 to be reprinted. The reprint job creation unit 1501 may set the printed matter that includes defects detected at the second inspection level instead of the printed matter that is likely to include undetected defects. The reprint job creation unit 1501 displays a preview of the printed matter to be reprinted in a preview window 1602 according to the printed matter 1601 to be reprinted. The reprint job creation unit 1501 may change the layout of the printed matter by imposing or the like at the time of reprinting. When the user presses a button 1603, the image processing device 600 executes reprinting with the layout displayed in the preview window 1602. 16B, the user can edit the printout 1601 to be reprinted into the printout 1604 to be reprinted by operating a touch panel or the like. In this case, the reprint job creation unit 1501 displays a preview of the edited printout to be reprinted in a preview window 1605 in accordance with the user's editing.

[0101] Fig. 17 is a flowchart of the inspection process executed by the image processing device 600 in this modified example. The CPU 601 reads and executes a program according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 17. S801, S802, S803, S804, S805, and S806 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0102] In S1701, the reprint job creation unit 1501 acquires the information on the defective printed matter calculated in S803 and the estimated information on the printed matter with undetected defects calculated in S805, creates a reprint job for reprinting the defective printed matter and the printed matter with undetected defects, and stores the job in a buffer.

[0103] In S1702, the reprint job creation unit 1501 acquires information on the defective printed matter calculated in S803, estimated information on the printed matter with undetected defects calculated in S805, and information on the printed matter to be reprinted in S1701, and confirms and edits the printed matter to be reprinted.

[0104] In S1703, if the reprint job creation unit 1501 determines that the user has pressed the button 1603 to instruct reprinting, it executes S1704, and if not, it ends the inspection process without performing reprinting.

[0105] In S1704, the reprint job creation unit 1501 executes reprinting according to the reprint job created in S1702. Fig. 18 shows an example of a warning message displayed during reprinting. If the reprint job creation unit 1501 determines that the paper length required for reprinting is insufficient, it may notify the user by displaying a warning message 1801 as shown in Fig. 18.

[0106] By using the process of the present invention for roll paper prints, the reprint job creation unit 1501 of the first modified example can reprint not only defective prints, but also prints that are likely to contain undetected defects, or defective prints that contain defects detected at the second inspection level. This allows the image processing device 600 to prevent missed detection of defective prints due to operator operation errors (for example, setting an inspection level lower than normal), and to prevent excessive reprinting.

[0107] When the reprint job creation unit 1501 determines that the length of the print paper in reprinting is insufficient for the paper length required for reprinting the printed matter, it displays a warning message to notify the user, thereby preventing reprinting from being delayed.

[0108] <Second embodiment> In the first embodiment, a method for presenting to a user printed matter that may contain an "undetected defect" based on the type of a detected defect is described. In the present embodiment, a method for presenting to a user printed matter that may contain an undetected defect is described, based on the position of the detected defect in the print recording direction or transport direction selected by the user and the number of printed matter with an undetected defect.

[0109] The configuration, system configuration, and block diagram of an image processing apparatus that executes a series of processes described in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore will be omitted.

[0110] <Main flow> 19 is a flowchart of the inspection process executed by the image processing device 600 in this embodiment. The CPU 601 reads out and executes a program following the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0111] S801, S802, S803, S804, and S806 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] In S1901, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 acquires detection information of the undetected defect determined in S804. Fig. 20 shows an example of a user interface that displays a printout of the undetected defect.

[0113] As shown in Fig. 20(a), when the radio button 2005 is selected, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines an area including printed matter on a line segment along the recording direction connecting the representative coordinates of the defective printed matter 2001, the representative coordinates of the defective printed matter 2002, and the representative coordinates of the defective printed matter 2003 as an undetected defect area. Furthermore, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 performs defect inspection at a second inspection level on printed matter in the undetected defect area, and identifies printed matter including a newly detected defect as an undetected defective printed matter 2004. Note that, in the example shown in Fig. 20(a), all printed matter in the undetected defect area is identified as an undetected defective printed matter 2004 including a newly detected defect, but there may be cases where only one printed matter is identified as an undetected defective printed matter 2004 including a newly detected defect.

[0114] As shown in Fig. 20(b), the user can change the defect count threshold (hereinafter, the number threshold) by operating the up / down button 2006. When the user sets a predetermined number greater than the number of defective printed matter detected (in the example of Fig. 20(a), three defective printed matter is shown) as the number threshold, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 hides the printed matter 2004 that is an undetected defect candidate. The number of defects in the transport direction may be reset in units of a preset time or print length.

[0115] 20(c), when radio button 2010 is selected, undetected defect estimation unit 705 determines an area including printed matter on a line segment along the conveying direction connecting representative coordinates of defective printed matter 2007 and representative coordinates of defective printed matter 2008 as an undetected defect area. Furthermore, undetected defect estimation unit 705 performs defect inspection for printed matter in the undetected defect area at a second inspection level, and identifies undetected defective printed matter 2009 including a newly detected defect. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 20(c), all printed matter in the undetected defect area is identified as undetected defective printed matter 2009, including printed matter containing a newly detected defect, but there are cases where it is naturally identified as a printed matter without a defect.

[0116] As shown in Fig. 20(d), the user can change the defect count threshold by operating the up / down button 2011. When a predetermined number greater than the number of detected defective printed matter (in the example of Fig. 20(c) there are two defective printed matter) is set, the undetected defect estimation unit 705 hides the undetected defective printed matter 2009. The number of defects in the recording direction of the print may be reset in units of a preset length.

[0117] By performing the above process in S1901 based on the print recording method of the detected defect or the occurrence position in the transport direction, it is possible to identify printed matter that may contain undetected defects regardless of the type of defect, and immediately check whether or not there is a printed matter that contains an undetected defect. This is expected to reduce the oversight of inspection of defective products due to operator operation errors (for example, setting an inspection level lower than normal) and to make it easier to check printed matter for undetected defects, thereby reducing the workload of the user.

[0118] In the above embodiment, an example has been given in which the image processing device estimates an undetected defect based on the type of defect and the location where the defect occurs, but the image processing device may estimate an undetected defect based on either one of them. For example, when the type of defect is an intermittently occurring defect, the image processing device may estimate the area around the defect as an undetected defect area. Furthermore, when the image processing device detects multiple defects regardless of the type of defect, the image processing device may estimate the line segment connecting the defects as an undetected defect area, or may determine the area surrounded by lines connecting three or more defects as an undetected defect area.

[0119] In the above-described embodiment, an example was given in which the image processing device detects defects at the second inspection level, but the image processing device may also display areas of undetected defects or areas in an identifiable manner, allowing the user to detect defects within the areas of undetected defects.

[0120] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0121] The disclosure of this specification includes the following image processing device, image processing method, and program. (Item 1) an inspection means for detecting defects in the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by scanning the printed matter and a reference image serving as a reference for the inspection; an estimation means for estimating an area corresponding to an undetected defect based on at least one of a type of the detected defect and a position of the detected defect; An image processing device comprising: (Item 2) The estimation means inspects an area corresponding to the undetected defect based on a second inspection level different from a first inspection level used for inspecting the defect by the inspection means. 2. The image processing device according to item 1, (Item 3) When the estimation means determines that the detected defect is a type of defect that occurs intermittently, the estimation means estimates an area corresponding to the undetected defect based on at least one of a conveyance direction and a recording direction of the printed matter including the detected defect. 3. The image processing device according to item 1 or 2, (Item 4) When it is determined that the number of printed products including the defect detected in the same one of the transport direction and the recording direction is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the estimation means estimates that a line segment along the same transport direction and the recording direction as the printed products including the detected defect is an area corresponding to the undetected defect. 4. The image processing device according to item 3, (Item 5) When the number of printed products including the detected defect is three or more, the estimation means estimates an area surrounded by positions related to the defects as an area corresponding to the undetected defect. 5. The image processing device according to item 3 or 4, (Item 6) a reprint job creation unit that creates a reprint job for reprinting the printed matter based on the inspection result by the inspection unit and the estimation result by the estimation unit; 6. The image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 5, (Item 7) When the reprint job creation means determines that the length of the printing paper on which the printed matter is to be reprinted is insufficient for the paper length required for reprinting the printed matter, the reprint job creation means notifies the user of the insufficient length. 7. The image processing device according to item 6, (Item 8) a defect indicating means for distinguishably indicating the printed matter including the defect from the printed matter including the undetected defect; 3. The image processing device according to item 2, (Item 9) The defect presenting means displays information regarding the second inspection level. 9. The image processing device according to item 8, (Item 10) The defect presenting means displays a screen for changing the second inspection level. 10. The image processing device according to item 9, (Item 11) When the detected defect is determined to be a type of defect that occurs sporadically, the estimation means does not estimate an area corresponding to the undetected defect. 11. The image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 10, (Item 12) The inspection means detects the defects in the plurality of printed matters that are periodically printed on a printing medium. 12. The image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 11, (Item 13) an inspection step of detecting defects in the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by scanning the printed matter and a reference image serving as a reference for the inspection; an estimation step of estimating an area corresponding to an undetected defect based on at least one of a type of the detected defect and a position of the detected defect; An image processing method comprising: (Item 14) 13. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 12.

[0122] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 600: image processing device; 701: print image creation section; 702: image reading section; 703: reference image creation section; 704: inspection processing section; 705: undetected defect estimation section; 706: defect presenting section.

Claims

1. an inspection means for detecting defects in the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by scanning the printed matter and a reference image serving as a reference for the inspection; an estimation means for estimating an area corresponding to an undetected defect based on at least one of a type of the detected defect and a position of the detected defect; An image processing device comprising:

2. The estimation means inspects an area corresponding to the undetected defect based on a second inspection level different from a first inspection level used for inspecting the defect by the inspection means.

2. The image processing device according to claim 1,

3. When the estimation means determines that the detected defect is a type of defect that occurs intermittently, the estimation means estimates an area corresponding to the undetected defect based on at least one of a conveyance direction and a recording direction of the printed matter including the detected defect.

2. The image processing device according to claim 1,

4. When it is determined that the number of printed products including the defect detected in the same one of the transport direction and the recording direction is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the estimation means estimates that a line segment along the same transport direction and the recording direction as the printed products including the detected defect is an area corresponding to the undetected defect.

4. The image processing device according to claim 3.

5. When the number of printed products including the detected defect is three or more, the estimation means estimates an area surrounded by positions related to the defects as an area corresponding to the undetected defect.

4. The image processing device according to claim 3.

6. a reprint job creation unit that creates a reprint job for reprinting the printed matter based on the inspection result by the inspection unit and the estimation result by the estimation unit; 2. The image processing device according to claim 1,

7. When the reprint job creation means determines that the length of the printing paper on which the printed matter is to be reprinted is insufficient for the paper length required for reprinting the printed matter, the reprint job creation means notifies the user of the insufficient length.

7. The image processing device according to claim 6,

8. a defect indicating means for distinguishably indicating the printed matter including the defect from the printed matter including the undetected defect; 3. The image processing device according to claim 2.

9. The defect presenting means displays information regarding the second inspection level.

9. The image processing device according to claim 8,

10. The defect presenting means displays a screen for changing the second inspection level.

10. The image processing device according to claim 9,

11. When the detected defect is determined to be a type of defect that occurs sporadically, the estimation means does not estimate an area corresponding to the undetected defect.

2. The image processing device according to claim 1,

12. The inspection means detects the defects in the plurality of printed matters that are periodically printed on a printing medium.

2. The image processing device according to claim 1,

13. an inspection step of detecting defects in the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by scanning the printed matter and a reference image serving as a reference for the inspection; an estimation step of estimating an area corresponding to an undetected defect based on at least one of a type of the detected defect and a position of the detected defect; An image processing method comprising:

14. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images