Inspection device and inspection system

Abstract

To solve such a problem that inspection cannot be made on a blank page without print data and a corresponded reference image.SOLUTION: An inspection device includes: reception means for receiving image data subjected to RIP processing; registration means for registering a reference image on the basis of the image data; first reading means for reading a first page of a printed matter and outputting first image data; second reading means for reading a second page of the printed matter and outputting second image data; and inspection means for inspecting the first page on the basis of the reference image and the first image data, and inspecting the second page on the basis of the reference image and the second image data. The registration means registers the reference image including blank image data in the case where the printed matter contains a blank page.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus and an inspection system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inspection (product inspection) to check whether a printed matter is correctly printed has been performed manually. In recent years, however, an apparatus that automatically performs inspection as post-processing of a printing machine has been used. In such an inspection apparatus (product inspection apparatus), first, reference image data is registered. The process for this registration is called a reference image registration job. Subsequently, the user performs inspection settings in which areas and thresholds for detecting defects performed in the present printing job are set with respect to the reference image. Next, the present printing job is executed, input image data is printed and output on paper by an image forming apparatus, and the printed matter printed and output on the paper is read by an inspection sensor configured inside the inspection apparatus. Defects in the printed matter are detected by comparing the image data read by the inspection sensor with the reference image data registered first. The inspection for detecting defects in the pattern portion of the printed matter is called printed image inspection.

[0003] In the reference image registration job, a RIP image obtained by expanding print data into a raster image is registered as the reference image. In Patent Document 1, a method has been proposed in which information indicating a reference image is acquired from an information processing apparatus and inspection is performed by comparing it with an image obtained by scanning a printed matter printed by a printing apparatus.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the method of Patent Document 1, reference images are not generated for pages not included in the print data. For example, in the case of single-sided printing, in the reference image registration job, only the reference image of the side with print data is generated. Therefore, for blank pages (blank sides) where printing is not performed, reference images are not generated and inspection cannot be performed. Also, even in the case of double-sided printing, when printing odd-numbered pages, reference images are not generated for blank sides without print data, so inspection cannot be performed.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and one object of the present embodiment is to provide an inspection system capable of performing inspection on surfaces for which reference images are not generated.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention includes a receiving means for receiving RIP-processed image data, a registering means for registering a reference image based on the image data, a first reading means for reading the first page of a printed matter and outputting first image data, a second reading means for reading the second page of the printed matter and outputting second image data, and an inspection means for inspecting the first page based on the reference image and the first image data and inspecting the second page based on the reference image and the second image data. The registering means is characterized in that when the printed matter includes blank pages, blank page image data is included in the image data and registered as the reference image.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to provide an inspection system capable of performing inspection on surfaces for which reference images are not generated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims, and not all combinations of the features described in each embodiment are essential for the solution means of the present invention.

[0011] In the following description, an image forming apparatus may also be referred to as a multifunction machine, a multifunction peripheral, or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral).

[0012] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system including an inspection apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Reference numeral 100 denotes an image forming apparatus, 110 denotes an inspection unit, 120 denotes a finisher, 130 denotes a client PC, 140 denotes an information processing apparatus, 150 denotes an inspection apparatus, 160 denotes a network, and 170 denotes a communication cable.

[0013] The image forming apparatus 100 includes a UI unit 101, a paper feed deck 102, and a paper feed deck 103. Further, an option deck 104 composed of a three-stage paper feed deck is connected. Recording sheets such as printing paper can be set on each deck. The image forming apparatus 100 performs a print output based on various input data, for example, print data sent from the client PC 130 or the information processing apparatus 140. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an inspection unit 110 and a finisher 120, and is connected to the inspection unit 110 and the finisher 120 via a communication cable which is an internal bus.

[0014] The inspection unit 110 receives the printed matter output from the image forming apparatus 100, and acquires image data for inspecting whether there is an abnormal image in the received printed matter. Here, the abnormal image is one that degrades the quality of the printed matter. For example, it is a round abnormal image (spot) generated by the adhesion of a coloring material to an unintended location during printing, color bleeding generated by insufficient adhesion of the coloring material to the intended location, or a linear abnormal image (streak). Then, the acquired image data is transferred to an inspection apparatus 150 described later via the communication cable 170, an inspection is performed on the inspection apparatus 150 to determine whether there is an abnormal image in the printed matter, and the inspection result is obtained from the inspection apparatus 150.

[0015] The finisher 120 receives the output paper inspected by the inspection unit 110, switches the paper discharge destination based on the inspection result of the inspection unit 110, and performs post-processing (such as binding) as necessary.

[0016] The image forming apparatus 100 is communicably connected to a client PC 130, an information processing apparatus 140, and an inspection apparatus 150 via a network 160. In the present embodiment, the inspection is performed by the inspection apparatus 150. However, the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and a configuration such as an inline inspection machine that consistently performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge may be used.

[0017] A print job is generated by the client PC 130, transmitted to the information processing apparatus 140 via the network 160, and managed by the information processing apparatus 140. Then, the print job is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 140 to the image forming apparatus 100 through the network 160, and the image forming apparatus 100 performs a process of printing on paper. Note that the print job may be generated and managed by the information processing apparatus 140, transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network 160, and managed by the image forming apparatus 100.

[0018] Note that the client PC 130, the information processing apparatus 140, and the inspection apparatus 150 may be connected to a communication cable so as to communicate with the image forming apparatus 100. That is, the connection form of the image forming apparatus 100, the information processing apparatus 140, and the client PC 130 shown in the present embodiment is an example, and it goes without saying that there are various other connection forms in addition to those shown in the present embodiment. Further, in addition to the inspection unit 110 and the finisher 120, a large-capacity stacker, a folding machine, a bookbinding machine, or the like may be connected to the image forming apparatus 100.

[0019] [Control Block Diagram] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection unit 110, the finisher 120, the client PC 130, the information processing apparatus 140, and the inspection apparatus 150 according to the present embodiment.

[0020] The client PC 130 is a PC for generating a print job and transmitting it to the information processing apparatus 140 via the network 160. The client PC 130 includes a control unit 230 and a UI unit 235. The control unit 230 includes a CPU 231, a RAM 232, a ROM 233, and a network I / F unit 234.

[0021] The CPU 231 controls the entire client PC 130. The RAM 232 is a work area when the CPU 231 executes various instructions, and the ROM 233 stores program data executed by the CPU 231 at startup, setting data of the control unit 230, etc. The network I / F unit 234 transmits and receives data to and from the information processing apparatus 140 via the network 160. 273 is an internal bus (system bus). The UI unit 235 is composed of, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is a device capable of inputting various set values or specified values.

[0022] The information processing apparatus 140 performs RIP processing on print data and document data, and generates a bitmap image for printing by the image forming apparatus 100. Also, it controls printing and manages print jobs of the image forming apparatus 100. The information processing apparatus 140 includes a control unit 240 and a UI unit 246. The control unit 240 includes a CPU 241, a RAM 242, a ROM 243, a network I / F unit 234, and an image processing unit 245.

[0023] The CPU 241 controls the entire information processing apparatus 140. The RAM 242 is a work area when the CPU 241 executes various instructions, and the ROM 243 stores program data executed by the CPU 241 at startup, setting data of the control unit 240, etc. The network I / F unit 244 transmits and receives data to and from the client PC 130, the image forming apparatus 100, and the inspection apparatus 150 via the network 160. 274 is an internal bus (system bus).

[0024] The image processing unit 245 performs RIP processing to convert the print data and document data transmitted from the client PC 130 into bitmap image data according to the usage of the RIP processing and the print settings. Specifically, in the case of RIP processing for reference image registration, for example, an image is generated by converting the resolution of 600 dpi to 300 dpi. On the other hand, in the case of RIP processing for print data, an image of 600 dpi is generated without reducing the resolution. In the RIP processing at the time of reference image registration, the RIP-processed image data is transferred to the inspection device 150 via the network 160 and used as a reference image for inspection. On the other hand, in the RIP processing of the print data at the time of inspection, the RIP-processed image data is transferred to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network 160 and printing processing is performed.

[0025] The UI unit 246 is composed of, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is a device capable of inputting various setting values or specified values.

[0026] The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data, for example, print data sent from the client PC 130 or the information processing apparatus 140.

[0027] The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to the UI unit 101 and the paper feed deck 260. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 200 and a printer unit 209. The control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a RAM 202, a ROM 203, an accessory I / F unit 204, an engine I / F unit 205, a paper feed deck I / F unit 206, a network I / F unit 207, and an image processing unit 208. Further, it is connected to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F unit 205.

[0028] The CPU 201 controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The RAM 202 is a work area when the CPU 201 executes various commands, and the ROM 203 stores program data executed by the CPU 201 at startup, setting data of the control unit 200, and the like.

[0029] The accessory I / F unit 204 is connected to the accessory I / F unit 215 and the I / F unit 224 via the cable 280. That is, the image forming apparatus 100 communicates with the inspection unit 110 and the finisher 120 via the accessory I / F units 204, 215, and 224. The engine I / F unit 205 transmits print data to the printer unit 209. The paper feed deck I / F unit 206 is in charge of communication and control with the paper feed deck 260. The paper feed deck 260 is a general term for the paper feed decks 102, 103, and the option deck 104 in terms of hardware configuration. The network I / F unit 207 transmits and receives data with the client PC 130, the image forming apparatus 100, and the inspection apparatus 150 via the network 160. 270 is an internal bus (system bus).

[0030] The image processing unit 208 performs processing for converting an image or document data received from the network 250 into print data.

[0031] Images and documents created on the client PC 130 on the network 160 or the information processing apparatus 140 are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 as PDL data via a network (for example, a Local Area Network). The transmitted PDL data is stored in the RAM 202 via the network I / F unit 207. Also, a print instruction by the user of the UI unit 101 is stored in the RAM 202 through the internal bus 270. A print instruction by the user is, for example, the selection of a paper type.

[0032] The image processing unit 208 acquires the PDL data stored in the RAM 202 and performs image processing for converting it into print data. Image processing for converting into print data is, for example, performing rasterization on the PDL data, converting it into multi-value bitmap data, and performing screen processing or the like to convert it into binary bitmap data. The binary bitmap data obtained by the image processing unit 205 is transmitted to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F unit 204.

[0033] The printer unit 209 prints the received binary bitmap data on a recording sheet using a coloring material. The CPU 201 issues an instruction to the printer unit 209 based on the print instruction by the user stored in the RAM 202. For example, when there is an instruction from the user to print on coated paper, the CPU 201 issues an instruction to the printer unit 209 to output paper from the paper feed deck in the image forming apparatus 100 where the coated paper is stored. By controlling various processes from the reception of the above-described PDL data until printing on the paper by the CPU 201, a full-color toner image is formed on the paper.

[0034] The inspection unit 110 performs control for transferring the image data acquired by the image reading unit 216 to an inspection apparatus 150 described later via the communication cable 170. Then, the inspection result is acquired from the inspection apparatus 150 and transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 and the finisher 120. The inspection unit 110 includes a control unit 210. The control unit 210 includes a CPU 211, a RAM 212, a ROM 213, a communication I / F unit 214, an accessory I / F unit 215, and an image reading unit 216.

[0035] The CPU 211 controls the entire inspection unit 110. The RAM 212 is a work area when the CPU 211 executes various instructions, and the ROM 213 stores program data executed by the CPU 211 at startup, setting data of the control unit 210, and the like. The communication I / F unit 214 communicates with the inspection apparatus 150 via the communication cable 170 and communicates data such as a scanned image and an inspection result read by the image reading unit 216. The accessory I / F unit 215 is connected to the accessory I / F unit 204 and the I / F unit 224 via the cable 280. The image reading unit 216 is an image reading unit that reads a printed matter conveyed from the image forming apparatus 100. In the image reading unit 216, a scanned image is generated by reading the printed matter. 271 is an internal bus (system bus).

[0036] The finisher 120 includes a control unit 220. The control unit 220 includes a CPU 221, a RAM 222, a ROM 223, and an accessory I / F unit 224.

[0037] The CPU 221 controls the entire finisher 120. The RAM 222 is a work area when the CPU 221 executes various instructions, and the ROM 223 stores program data executed by the CPU 221 at startup, setting data of the control unit 220, etc. The accessory I / F unit 224 is connected to the accessory I / F unit 204 and the I / F unit 215 via the cable 280.

[0038] The finisher 120 is a device for switching post-processing according to printing settings (such as bookbinding, etc.) for the printed matter conveyed from the inspection unit 110 and switching the paper discharge destination based on the inspection results. For example, when switching the paper discharge destination according to the inspection result of whether there is an abnormality in the printed matter, the sheets without abnormalities are discharged to the normal output tray, and the sheets with abnormalities are discharged to a tray different from the normal output tray. 272 is an internal bus (system bus).

[0039] The inspection device 150 is a device for inspecting the scanned image of the printed matter obtained by the inspection unit 110. The inspection device 150 includes a control unit 250 and a UI unit 257. The control unit 250 includes a CPU 251, a RAM 252, a ROM 253, a communication I / F unit 254, a network I / F unit 255, and an inspection processing unit 256.

[0040] The CPU 251 controls the entire inspection device 150. The RAM 252 is a work area when the CPU 251 executes various instructions, and the ROM 253 stores program data executed by the CPU 251 at startup, setting data of the control unit 250, etc. The communication I / F unit 254 communicates with the inspection unit 110 via the communication cable 170 and transmits and receives data such as the scan image read by the image reading unit 216 and the inspection results. The network I / F unit 255 transmits and receives data to and from the client PC 130, the image forming device 100, and the inspection device 150 via the network 160. The inspection processing unit 256 inspects whether there are defects in the printed matter. The internal bus 275 is a system bus. The UI unit 257 is a UI unit for the user to display the settings and inspection results of the inspection device 150. Here, the settings of the inspection device 150 made by the user refer to, for example, circular defects (dots) and linear defects (lines).

[0041] Next, an overview of the printed image inspection performed by the inspection device 150 will be described. The inspection device 150 acquires a scan image (read sheet) of the inspection target read by the inspection unit 110. The acquired scan image of the inspection target is stored in the RAM 252.

[0042] Subsequently, the inspection device 150 performs an inspection by comparing the reference image stored in the RAM 252 in advance as a reference image with the scan image of the inspection target by the inspection processing unit 256. Specifically, feature points are extracted from each of the reference image and the scan image, and based on the extracted feature points, the reference image and the scan image are aligned. If the difference between the pixel value (luminance value) of the inspection target pixel in the aligned scan image and the pixel value (luminance value) of the comparison target pixel in the reference image is equal to or less than the threshold value, the inspection processing unit 256 determines that the inspection target pixel is qualified. Note that the threshold value is different for each inspection level. This inspection proceeds for each reference image corresponding to each scan image.

[0043] When the inspection of all pixels is completed, it is determined whether the total number of pixels determined to be non-conforming is equal to or less than the pass threshold value, and it is determined whether the scanned image is normal. If the total number of pixels determined to be non-conforming is equal to or less than the pass threshold value, the inspection processing unit 256 determines that the scanned image is normal. If the total number of pixels determined to be non-conforming exceeds the pass threshold value, the inspection processing unit 256 determines that the scan image is not normal. The results of the inspection are stored in the RAM 252, and for example, information on whether there are defects in the printed matter, the types of detected defects (dots or streaks), the position information of the defects when displayed on the UI unit 320, and the like.

[0044] Next, the inspection apparatus 150 instructs the UI unit 257 to display the inspection results stored in the RAM 252 by the CPU 251. By displaying the inspection results on the UI unit 257, the user recognizes the inspection results. Further, when defective printed matters are continuously generated in a certain quantity, the inspection apparatus 150 transmits the above information to the inspection unit 110 via the communication I / F unit 254 by the CPU 251.

[0045] The information that defective printed matters are continuously generated is received by the control unit 210 via the communication I / F unit 214. When the control unit 210 receives the above information, the CPU 211 transmits the above information to the image forming apparatus 100 via the accessory I / F unit 215. Further, the above information is received by the control unit 200 via the accessory I / F unit 204. When the control unit 200 receives the above information, the CPU 201 instructs the printer unit 209 to stop printing. The image forming apparatus 100 stops the printing operation when the printer unit 209 is instructed to stop printing. Further, the inspection unit 110 also transmits information to the finisher 120 via the accessory I / F unit 215 by the CPU 211. The information transmitted to the finisher 120 is information on whether there are defects in the printed matter. The finisher 120 uses the received information to discharge non-defective printed matters to the normal paper discharge tray and defective printed matters to a tray different from the normal paper discharge tray.

[0046] <Job settings> Next, the selection of the inspection method for the inspection job in the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is an example of a job property screen displayed on the UI unit 235 of the client PC 130.

[0047] The inspection method selection unit 300 is a screen for receiving print job settings from the user on the client PC 130. The print job generated on the client PC 130 is transmitted to and managed by the information processing apparatus 140.

[0048] When the user selects "ON" for inspection in the inspection mode setting unit 302, subsequent property settings are made. Here, a print job set to "ON" for inspection is referred to as an "inspection job". When "OFF" is selected for inspection, it is treated as a normal print job without performing inspection. In the inspection setting unit 303, the user selects a method for setting the area and its level to be inspected. When "Default" is selected, the inspection apparatus 150 inspects the entire image at a standard level. When "Preset1" to "Preset10" are selected, the inspection apparatus 150 performs inspection based on a previously specified area and level. When "New registration" is selected, the user newly creates an inspection setting, and the inspection apparatus 150 performs inspection based on that setting.

[0049] In the inspection operation setting unit 304, the user selects the registration of a reference image and the combination of the printing operations of this print job. When "Registration only" is selected, the inspection apparatus 150 performs only the registration of the reference image and its inspection setting. When "Print only" is selected, printing by the image forming apparatus 100 and inspection by the inspection apparatus 150 are performed using a previously registered reference image. When "Registration & Print" is selected, the operations of "Registration only" and "Print only" described above are continued. The generation and storage processing of the reference image will be described later. Finally, when the print button 305 is pressed, printing and inspection operations are executed based on the settings input in 302 to 304. When the close button 301 is pressed, the screen is closed without saving the settings of this screen.

[0050] <Job execution flow flow> Next, the flow of job execution in the information processing apparatus 140 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 4. This flowchart is realized by the CPU 241 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 243 into the RAM 242 and reading and executing the program code expanded in the RAM.

[0051] In step S401, the CPU 241 determines whether the set value set by the inspection operation setting unit 304 shown in FIG. 3 is "print only". If it is set to "print only", the process proceeds to step S405. If it is set to something other than "print only", the process proceeds to step S402.

[0052] In step S402, the CPU 241 sends a reference image registration job to the inspection apparatus 150. Here, the RIP image, various print setting information, etc. are sent.

[0053] In step S403, the CPU 241 determines whether it has received a registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus 150. If there is a registration completion notification, the process proceeds to step S404. If there is no registration completion notification, it waits.

[0054] In step S404, the CPU 241 determines whether the set value set by the inspection operation setting unit 304 shown in FIG. 3 is "register & print". If "register & print" is set (YES in step S404), the process proceeds to step S405. If "register only" is set (NO in step S404), the process ends.

[0055] In step S405, the CPU 241 sends an inspection book printing job. Here, the RIP image, various print setting information, etc. are sent to the image forming apparatus 100, and the process ends.

[0056] <Reference Image Registration Flow> Next, the flow of the registration work before the inspection in the inspection apparatus 150 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 5. This flowchart is realized by the CPU 251 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 253 into the RAM 252, and reading and executing the program code expanded in the RAM.

[0057] In the RIP inspection, the RIP image generated by the information processing apparatus 140 is transmitted to the inspection apparatus 150.

[0058] In step S501, the CPU 251 receives a start notification of a reference image registration job from the information processing apparatus 140.

[0059] In step S502, the CPU 251 receives a RIP image and print setting information from the information processing apparatus 140. Here, it is assumed that a 5-page RIP image shown in FIG. 6(a) is received. Here, it is assumed that an ID capable of determining the page order is given to the image file name. In the present embodiment, for example, the "*" part in "RefImage_*.tif" is identified as the page ID. The page ID is expressed by, for example, a number or a character string. Also, the method of assigning the page ID is not limited to this, and information such as a separate ID list may be received from the information processing apparatus 140. The print setting information is setting information such as single-sided printing and double-sided printing. In the present embodiment, the single-sided / double-sided setting will be described, but for example, setting information such as face-up / face-down and forward / backward order may be received. Also, here, the print setting information is acquired from the information processing apparatus 140, but it may be configured such that the print setting is performed from the UI unit 257 of the inspection apparatus 150 and the set value is acquired.

[0060] In step S503, the CPU 251 stores the image received in step S502 in a storage device such as the RAM 252. Also, a sheet information list is created and stored in the RAM 252. FIG. 6(b) is a sheet information list when registering the image data for five pages of FIG. 6(a) as a reference image in duplex setting. When registering the image data for odd-numbered pages as a reference image in duplex setting as shown in FIG. 6(b), the last page becomes a blank page without a corresponding reference image. In this embodiment, it is generated by the inspection device 150, but it may be configured to be generated by the information processing device 140 and transmitted to the inspection device 150. The sheet information list is a list consisting of elements indicating the correspondence of page IDs for a printed sheet and its printed surface. Element 601 is an element indicating the front surface of the first sheet. Here, it is assumed that the first page is printed on the front surface of the first sheet. In this case, the page ID corresponding to this element is 1. Next, element 602 is an element indicating the back surface of the first sheet. Since it is a duplex printing job, the second page is printed on this surface. Therefore, the page ID corresponding to element 602 is 2. The same applies to elements 603 to 605. Element 606 is an element indicating the back surface of the third sheet. Since the printing job is five pages, there is no print data and no image data is transmitted from the information processing device 140. Therefore, the inspection device 150 stores the sheet information list with the page ID corresponding to element 606 as "blank". The page ID "blank" is an example, and any method that can notify the inspection device 150 that there is no print data and no image data is transmitted from the image processing device 140 is acceptable, and it is not limited to this.

[0061] In step S504, the CPU 251 determines whether the reading of all pages is completed. If the image reception of all pages is completed, it proceeds to step S505. If there are subsequent pages, it returns to step S502 to receive the image of the next page.

[0062] In step S505, the CPU 251 refers to the sheet information list saved in step S503 and determines whether there is a page with the page ID being "blank". If there is a page with the page ID being "blank", the process proceeds to step S506. If there is no page with the page ID being "blank", the process proceeds to step S507.

[0063] In step S506, the CPU 251 generates reference image data of blank paper corresponding to the page with the page ID being "blank" and saves it in the RAM 252. By generating reference image data for pages without print data and for which no RIP image is generated, it becomes possible to perform inspections even on blank paper pages (blank paper surfaces) for which no reference image is generated. Here, it is configured to generate a reference image corresponding to a blank paper page, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured to save the pre-registered reference image data in the RAM 252 by referring to it. Also, instead of saving the reference image corresponding to the page ID "blank" in the RAM 252, it may be configured to specify the reference data to be used during later inspections in S506.

[0064] In step S507, the CPU 251 sends a registration completion notice to the information processing device 140.

[0065] <Inspection Flow> Next, the flow of inspections in the inspection device 150 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 7. This flowchart is realized when the CPU 251 expands the program code stored in the ROM 253 into the RAM 252 and reads and executes the program code expanded in the RAM.

[0066] In step S701, the CPU 251 receives the start of this print job from the information processing device 140 and starts reading the inspection image.

[0067] In step S702, the CPU 251 receives the scanned image. Here, the scanned image is the scanned image generated by the inspection unit 110 reading the printed matter.

[0068] In step S703, the CPU 251 acquires the reference image registered in the reference image registration flow shown in FIG. 5. Here, the inspection apparatus 150 determines the page ID from the sheet number and the surface information to be printed, and acquires the reference image corresponding to the page ID. For example, if the image read in step S702 is an image of the front surface of the first sheet, the sheet information list is referred to, and it is detected that the corresponding page ID is 1. It is detected that the reference image associated with page ID = 1 is "RefImage_1.tif". When page ID = Blank, the white image data generated in step S507 is acquired.

[0069] In step S704, the CPU 251 performs an inspection by comparing the scanned image acquired in step S702 with the reference image acquired in step S703. In this embodiment, when the reference image is not generated, an image file of a blank sheet is generated and the inspection is performed. As a result, there is an advantage that image defects can be detected and the processing can be made common by comparing two images in the same manner as when the reference image is generated, but it is not limited to this. For example, a method of performing the inspection using a pre-recorded image file of a blank sheet may be used. Also, a method of comparing all the pixels of the reference data representing white with the scanned image may be used. Specifically, the pixel data representing white is compared with the pixels of the scanned image. With this method, it is not necessary to generate the image data of the blank sheet. Also, the scanned image itself may be regarded as an image difference to detect image defects.

[0070] In step S705, the CPU 251 notifies the inspection result to the inspection unit 110. The inspection result is also notified to the image forming apparatus 100. The notified inspection result is used as described below, for example. When the notified inspection result is NG, printing is stopped. Also, the inspection result is notified to the finisher 120, and the sheet with the NG inspection result is discharged to a tray different from the normal paper discharge tray. Also, the inspection result is displayed on the UI unit 257 of the inspection apparatus 150.

[0071] FIG. 8 is an example of a screen displayed on the UI unit 257 of the inspection apparatus 150 during inspection.

[0072] 801 is a button for clearing the display of the screen 800. When the button 801 is pressed, the screen 800 is closed. The area 802 is an area representing the inspection status. The area 803 is an area for displaying an image of the loaded printed sheet. The inspection result is displayed in the area 804. The inspection result for each surface of the inspection sheet is displayed in the area 805, and when the inspection is NG, the detailed result of the factor that became NG is also displayed. The display of the detailed result may be configured to display the image of the inspection sheet selected in the area 803 by selecting the inspection sheet displayed in the area 805. In this embodiment, the number of inspections, the number of OKs, and the number of NGs are displayed, but it is not limited to this, and items that are easy for the user to understand the inspection result may be displayed. The button 806 is a button for saving the inspection result and ending the inspection. When the button 806 is pressed, the screen 800 is closed.

[0073] In step S706, the CPU 251 determines whether the reading of all sheets is completed. If the reading of all sheets is not completed, the process returns to step S702 to read the next sheet. If the reading of all sheets is completed, the process proceeds to step S707.

[0074] In step S707, the CPU 251 saves the inspection result in the RAM 252 and ends the process.

[0075] The above is the description regarding the inspection execution flow. As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide an inspection system capable of inspecting pages for which no RIP image is generated even when there is no print data and no RIP image is generated.

[0076] (Embodiment 2) In Embodiment 1, a method was described in which inspection is possible by generating a blank paper image even when there is no print data and no RIP image is generated. However, for example, in the case of a printed matter in single-sided printing, stains on the back side may not require inspection. When the necessity of inspecting the blank paper surface changes depending on the product in this way, it is necessary to set and delete the inspection area for each inspection page according to the product. In this embodiment, a method for switching the presence or absence of inspection for a page without print data and for which no RIP image is generated will be described with a simple operation.

[0077] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with respect to the parts different from the aforementioned Embodiment 1. For parts not described in detail, they are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0078] The selection screen for the inspection method of the inspection job in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is an example of a job property screen displayed on the UI unit 235 of the client PC 130. Since 301 to 305 are the same as in Embodiment 1, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0079] The setting item 901 is a setting item for setting whether or not to make the blank paper surface an inspection target. When the check = ON, the blank paper surface without print data is inspected. When the check = OFF, the inspection of the blank paper surface without print data is skipped. In this embodiment, the setting is performed on the UI of the client PC 130, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be possible to set from the UI unit 257 of the inspection device 150 or the UI unit 246 of the information processing device 140, and the setting location is not limited as long as the setting value can be transmitted to the inspection device 150. This setting is transmitted to and managed by the information processing device 140. Also, the setting value of this setting item is transmitted to the inspection device 150 when the reference image registration job shown in step S402 of FIG. 4 is transmitted.

[0080] Next, the flow of the registration work before the inspection start of the inspection apparatus 150 in the present embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 10. This flowchart is realized by the CPU 251 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 253 into the RAM 252 and reading and executing the program code expanded in the RAM.

[0081] Since the processing of steps S501 to S507 is the same as that in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0082] In step S1001, the CPU 251 acquires the set value of the setting item 901 shown in FIG. 9 and determines whether it is set to White paper inspection = ON. If White paper inspection = ON (YES in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S1002. If White paper inspection = OFF (NO in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S505.

[0083] In step S1002, the CPU 251 changes the page ID of the white paper surface. FIG. 11 shows an example of changing the page ID. FIG. 11(a) shows the sheet information list generated in step S503 when the image data of five pages shown in FIG. 6(a) is printed on one side. FIG. 11(b) shows an example in which the page ID set to "Blank" is changed to "Skip" when White paper inspection = OFF in step S1001. By changing the page ID to "Skip", in the inspection described later, the inspection is controlled to be skipped.

[0084] Next, the flow of the inspection of the inspection apparatus 150 in the present embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 12. This flowchart is realized by the CPU 251 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 253 into the RAM 252 and reading and executing the program code expanded in the RAM.

[0085] Since the processing of steps S701 to S707 is the same as that in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0086] In step S1201, the CPU 251 refers to the sheet information list and acquires the page ID. Here, the CPU 251 determines the page ID from the sheet number to be printed and the surface information. If the page ID is "Skip" (YES in step S1202), the process proceeds to step S706. If the page ID is other than "Skip" (NO in step S1202), the process proceeds to step S703. In this way, when the page ID is set to "Skip", the processes of steps S703 to S705 are skipped and the control is such that the inspection is not performed. Also, in this embodiment, the control is performed so as not to perform the inspection, but the inspection result notification may be performed with the inspection result being "OK".

[0087] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to switch the presence or absence of inspection with a simple operation for a printing surface where there is no print data and no RIP image is generated.

[0088] (Other Embodiments) As described above, various examples and embodiments of this embodiment have been shown and described. However, the gist and scope of this embodiment are not limited to the specific descriptions in this specification. This embodiment can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiment to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. Also, it can be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

Claims

1. A receiving means for receiving RIP-processed image data; a registration means for registering a reference image based on the image data; a first reading means for reading a first page of a printed matter and outputting first image data; a second reading means for reading a second page of the printed matter and outputting second image data; an inspection means for inspecting the first page based on the reference image and the first image data, and inspecting the second page based on the reference image and the second image data, The registration means registers, when the printed matter includes a blank page, blank page image data included in the image data as the reference image. An inspection device characterized by:

2. the reference image is an image corresponding to each page of the printed matter, 2. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, when the printed matter includes a blank page, the registration unit registers the blank page image data as the reference image corresponding to the blank page of the printed matter.

3. The registration means registers the reference image in association with each page of the printed matter based on print setting information.

3. The inspection apparatus according to claim 2.

4. 2. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the first page is the front side of a single printed material, and the second page is the back side of the single printed material.

5. The inspection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the printed matter includes a blank page after the receiving means has received all of the image data, the registration means registers the image data including blank image data as the reference image.

6. 2. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, when a blank page inspection setting for inspecting blank pages of the printed matter is enabled, the registration means registers the blank page image data included in the image data as the reference image.

7. 7. The inspection device according to claim 6, wherein, when the blank page inspection setting is invalid, the registration means registers the image data without including the blank page image data as the reference image.

8. A receiving means for receiving RIP-processed image data; a registration means for registering a reference image based on the image data; a first reading means for reading a first page of a printed matter and outputting first image data; a second reading means for reading a second page of the printed matter and outputting second image data; an inspection means for inspecting the first page based on the reference image and the first image data, and inspecting the second page based on the reference image and the second image data, The registration means registers, when the printed matter includes a blank page, blank page image data included in the image data as the reference image.

1. An inspection system comprising:

9. the reference image is an image corresponding to each page of the printed matter, 9. The inspection system according to claim 8, wherein, when the printed matter includes a blank page, the registration unit registers the blank page image data as the reference image corresponding to the blank page of the printed matter.

10. The registration means registers the reference image in association with each page of the printed matter based on print setting information.

10. The inspection system of claim 9.

11. 9. The inspection system of claim 8, wherein the first page is a front side of a piece of printed material, and the second page is a back side of the piece of printed material.

12. The inspection system according to claim 8, characterized in that, when the printed matter includes blank pages after the receiving means has received all of the image data, the registration means registers the image data including blank image data as the reference image.

13. 2. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein when a blank page inspection setting for inspecting blank pages of the printed matter is enabled, the registration means registers the blank page image data included in the image data as the reference image.

14. 14. The inspection system according to claim 13, wherein, when the blank paper inspection setting is invalid, the registration means registers the image data without including the blank paper image data as the reference image.

15. an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet to generate the printed matter; a conveying means for conveying a sheet of paper on which an image has been formed by the image forming means, the first reading means and the second reading means read an image on the paper conveyed by the conveying means; The inspection system of claim 8.

Images