Inspection system

Abstract

To solve the problem that in serial number inspection of an image without a reference image for collating the serial number, it is not possible, before inspection, to confirm whether or not the serial number of the reference image to be compared is correctly set before inspection is actually performed.SOLUTION: An inspection system reads a printed matter to acquire a read image, and inspects the read image. Then, a data inspection area to be an object of inspection of variable data without accompanying decoding processing is set, and a reference image including the variable data is displayed. Then, the inspection system displays the plurality of pieces of variable data before executing the inspection of the read image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inspection (product inspection) to check whether a printed matter is correctly printed has been performed manually. However, in recent years, an inspection device that automatically performs product inspection as a post-processing of a printing machine has been used. In such an inspection device, a correct image is registered in advance as a reference image. Then, the input image data is printed on paper by an image forming device and output as a printed matter, and the image printed on the printed matter is read by a sensor of the inspection device. And by comparing the scanned image data obtained by reading with the registered reference image, an abnormality of the printed matter is detected. Hereinafter, an inspection for detecting an abnormality in a picture part of a printed matter is referred to as a printed image inspection.

[0003] In addition to the printed image inspection, an inspection is also performed on whether variable area parts (variable data) such as character strings and barcodes are correctly printed in variable printing.

[0004] Patent Document 1 describes an encapsulating and sealing machine that performs a destination inspection by reading a barcode printed on an inspection image and collating the read serial number of the number of passes with the serial number of the number of passes registered in a control file. It is also described that a sequence inspection of the inspection image is performed by inspecting the continuity of the numbers included in the barcode.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in the method of Patent Document 1, although continuity can be inspected by the pass number serial number, there is no method to confirm whether the serial number value is appropriate before actually conducting the inspection. For this reason, there is a problem that it is easy to make a setting mistake in the inspection when inspecting complex serial numbers such as multi-sided printing of tickets and page numbers in bookbinding printing.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the above-mentioned prior art.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of confirming a collation value to be collated with variable data before performing an inspection of an image including the variable data.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, an inspection system according to an aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, image reading means for reading a printed matter and acquiring a read image; inspection means for executing an inspection of the read image; area setting means for setting a data inspection area to be inspected for variable data without decoding processing; display means for displaying a reference image including the variable data, and has the display means is characterized in that a plurality of variable data are displayed before the inspection means executes an inspection.

Effects of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, since a collation value to be collated with variable data can be confirmed before performing an inspection of an image including the variable data, there is an effect that setting mistakes in the inspection of an image including the variable data can be reduced.

[0011] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] The attached drawings are included in the specification, form a part thereof, show embodiments of the present invention, and are used to explain the principles of the present invention together with the description.

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Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments 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. Although a plurality of features are described in the embodiments, not all of these plurality of features are essential for the invention, and the plurality of features may be arbitrarily combined. Further, in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Note that, in the following description, the image forming apparatus may also be called a multifunction peripheral, a multi-function peripheral, or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral).

[0014] [Embodiment 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system including an inspection apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0015] This inspection system includes an image forming apparatus 100, an inspection apparatus 110, a finisher 120, a client PC 130, and a print server 140. The image forming apparatus 100, the client PC 130, and the print server 140 are connected via a network 150. The image forming apparatus (printing apparatus) 100 performs printing based on various input data, for example, print data sent from the client PC 130 or the print server 140, and outputs a printed matter. The inspection apparatus 110 receives the printed matter output from the image forming apparatus 100 and inspects whether there are any defects in the received printed matter. Here, a defect is something that degrades the quality of the printed matter. For example, it is dirt caused by the adhesion of a coloring material to an unintended location on the printed matter, or color bleeding caused by insufficient adhesion of the coloring material to an intended location.

[0016] Furthermore, the inspection device 110 inspects variable regions (variable data) including variable regions such as character strings and barcodes in variable printing. For example, a data readability inspection for checking whether a character string or barcode is readable and a data collation inspection for collating the read result of a character string or barcode with a reference image are performed. Hereinafter, the data readability inspection and the data collation inspection are collectively referred to as data inspection. In data inspection, the user must register a glyph font, which is data associating a glyph image of a character with a character code for optical character recognition (OCR). Here, the registration work for creating a glyph font is referred to as glyph registration. Also, there is a serial number inspection as one of the data inspections. The serial number inspection inspects data having consecutive numerical values within a page or between pages of an image to be inspected, such as an ID, page number, and date. That is, the inspection device 110 performs a printed image inspection for detecting an abnormality in the pattern portion of a printed matter and a data inspection including a data readability inspection and a data collation inspection. In the first embodiment, as an example of the data collation inspection, the serial number inspection, in which the numerical values in the data area are determined by a predetermined rule, will be described. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention, and any data determined by a predetermined rule may be used as the data collation inspection. Other examples will be described in detail in the modification examples described later.

[0017] The finisher 120 receives the paper (printed matter) inspected by the inspection device 110, switches the paper discharge destination based on the inspection result of the inspection device 110, performs post-processing (such as bookbinding and stapling) if necessary, and discharges the paper.

[0018] The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to the client PC 130 and the print server 140 via the network 150, and is further connected to the inspection device 110 and the finisher 120 via a communication cable. Also, the inspection device 110 is connected to the finisher 120 via a communication cable in addition to the image forming apparatus 100. The first embodiment will be described as an example using an in-line inspection machine that consistently performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge, but this is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0020] The controller 200 receives images and documents from the network 150 and converts the received images and documents into print data. The printer unit 210 prints the print data on a recording medium (paper, sheet, etc.). The UI unit 220 receives screen displays and instructions such as selection of paper information for the image forming apparatus 100 from the user.

[0021] Next, the configuration of the controller 200 will be described.

[0022] The network I / F (interface) unit 201 transmits and receives data to and from the client PC 130 and the print server 140 via the network 150. The CPU 202 controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The RAM 203 functions as a program expansion area and a work area when the CPU 202 executes various instructions. The ROM 204 stores program data executed by the CPU 202 at startup, setting data of the controller 200, and the like. The image processing unit 205 performs RIP processing (Raster Image Processer) for converting images and document data received from the network 150 into print data. The engine I / F (interface) unit 206 transmits the print data to the printer unit 210 for printing. The communication I / F unit 207 communicates with the inspection device 110 and the finisher 120. The CPU 202 executes the program expanded from the ROM 204 to the RAM 203 and controls each part of the controller 200 via the internal bus (system bus) 208.

[0023] Images and documents created on the client PC 130 or the print server 140 on the network 150 are transmitted as PDL data to the image forming apparatus 100 via a network (e.g., Local Area Network). The transmitted PDL data is stored in the RAM 203 via the network I / F unit 201. Also, a print instruction by the user via the UI unit 220 is stored in the RAM 203 through the internal bus 208. The print instruction by the user includes, for example, selection of paper type.

[0024] The image processing unit 205 acquires the PDL data stored in the RAM 203 and performs image processing to convert it into print data. The image processing to convert into print data is, for example, to perform rasterization on the PDL data, convert it into multi-value bitmap data, and perform screen processing, etc., to convert it into binary bitmap data. The binary bitmap data obtained by the image processing unit 205 is sent to the printer unit 210 via the engine I / F unit 206 and printed.

[0025] The printer unit 210 prints the received binary bitmap data on a sheet using a coloring material. The CPU 202 issues an instruction to the printer unit 210 based on the print instruction by the user stored in the RAM 203. For example, when there is an instruction from the user to print on coated paper, the CPU 202 issues an instruction to the printer unit 210 to feed coated paper from a paper cassette (not shown) in which the coated paper in the image forming apparatus 100 is stored. By controlling various processes from the reception of the above-mentioned PDL data to the printing on the sheet by the CPU 202, a full-color toner image is formed (printed) on the sheet.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1.

[0027] The inspection control unit 300 controls the entire inspection apparatus 110 and inspects whether there are defects in the printed matter. The image reading unit 310 reads the printed matter conveyed from the image forming apparatus 100. The image reading unit 310 generates a scanned image by reading the printed matter. The UI unit 320 includes a display unit (touch panel) for the user to set the inspection apparatus 110 and display inspection results and the like to the user, and an operation unit having hard keys. Here, the settings of the inspection apparatus 110 made by the user include items such as what kind of defects to inspect when inspecting the printed matter. The inspection items for defects are, for example, round-shaped defects (dots) and linear defects (streaks). In the first embodiment, the UI unit 320 has a display unit for displaying a screen and a display control unit for controlling the screen displayed on the display unit.

[0028] Next, the configuration of the inspection control unit 300 will be described.

[0029] The communication I / F (interface) unit 301 transmits and receives data to and from the image forming apparatus 100 and the finisher 120. The CPU 302 executes the program expanded in the RAM 303 to control the entire inspection apparatus 110. The RAM 303 provides a program area for the CPU 302 and a work area for executing various instructions. The ROM 304 stores program data executed by the CPU 302 at startup, setting data of the inspection control unit 300, and the like. The inspection processing unit 305 inspects whether there are defects in the printed matter. The internal bus 306 is a system bus that connects the CPU 302 and the above-described units.

[0030] Next, an overview of the printed image inspection performed by the inspection apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0031] The inspection device 110 reads the printed matter conveyed from the image forming device 100 by the image reading unit 310, and acquires a scanned image of the inspection target. The acquired scanned image of the inspection target is stored in the RAM 303. Subsequently, the inspection device 110 acquires, by the inspection processing unit 305, the difference value between the reference image stored in the RAM 303 in advance as the correct image and the scanned image of the inspection target. Then, the inspection device 110 performs an inspection by comparing the acquired difference value with the inspection threshold values (such as contrast and size) of each inspection item for each pixel. The result of this inspection is stored in the RAM 303. For example, information on whether there is an abnormality in the printed matter, the type of detected abnormality (dots or streaks), and the position information of the abnormality when displayed on the UI unit 320 are stored.

[0032] Next, an overview of the data inspection performed by the inspection device 110 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0033] The inspection device 110 reads the printed matter conveyed from the image forming device 100 by the image reading unit 310, and acquires a scanned image of the inspection target. The acquired scanned image of the inspection target is stored in the RAM 303. Subsequently, the inspection device 110 inspects whether a character string or a barcode can be read using a font shape for character recognition (OCR) set in advance and the barcode standard by the inspection processing unit 305. It is also possible to perform a data collation inspection to collate whether the result of the read character string or barcode matches the reference image (correct image). The result of the inspection is stored in the RAM 303. For example, the result of the character string or barcode read from the printed matter, the collation result with the reference image, and the position information of the read characters or barcodes when displayed on the UI unit 320 are stored. The CPU 302 of the inspection device 110 instructs the UI unit 320 to display the inspection result stored in the RAM 303. In this way, when the inspection result is displayed on the UI unit 320, the user can recognize the inspection result.

[0034] Also, when defective printed materials are continuously generated in a certain quantity, the inspection device 110 transmits, via the communication I / F unit 301, information indicating that defective printed materials are continuously generated to the image forming apparatus 100 by the CPU 302. This information is received by the controller 200 of the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication I / F unit 207 of the image forming apparatus 100. When the controller 200 receives this information, the CPU 202 of the image forming apparatus 100 instructs the printer unit 210 to stop printing. In this way, by instructing the printer unit 210 to stop printing, the image forming apparatus 100 can prevent the formation of any more wasteful printed materials.

[0035] Furthermore, the inspection device 110 transmits information to the finisher 120 via the communication I / F unit 301 based on the inspection results stored in the RAM 303 by the CPU 302. Here, the information transmitted to the finisher 120 is information indicating whether or not there is a defect in the printed material. The finisher 120 uses the received information to discharge non-defective printed materials to the normal paper output tray and discharges defective printed materials to a tray different from the normal paper output tray. This can prevent non-defective printed materials and defective printed materials from being mixed.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the overall flow from the registration operation before the start of inspection to the execution of inspection by the inspection device 110 according to Embodiment 1. The processes shown in this flowchart are realized by the CPU 302 of the inspection device 110 expanding and executing the program code stored in the ROM 304 in the RAM 303.

[0037] First, in S401, the CPU 302 registers the glyph font. The glyph font registered here is used during data inspection. A glyph font is data that associates the glyph image of a character required for character recognition (OCR) performed during data inspection with a character code. The procedure for creating a glyph font is as follows: First, the inspection device 110 waits in the glyph font image loading mode and receives a print job for creating a glyph font from the client PC 130. The inspection device 110 receives the print job for creating a glyph font from the client PC 130. Then, printing is executed by the image forming device 100 according to the print job. When the inspection device 110 detects the conveyance of the printed matter printed by the image forming device 100 according to the print job, it scans the printed matter with the image reading unit 310 and saves the scanned image in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Then, from the scanned image, each character to be OCRed is cut out one by one, and the user inputs the character code for the cut-out character image to create a glyph font. The glyph font created in this way is saved in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Here, the method for creating a glyph font according to Embodiment 1 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and any method may be used as long as it can create data associating a character code with each character image cut out from the scanned image. Note that there may be a case where only print image inspection is performed without performing data inspection. In this case, the process proceeds to S402 without performing the font registration in S401.

[0038] In S402, the CPU 302 registers a reference image that is the correct image for inspection. At this time, the inspection device 110 waits in the reference image loading mode and executes a print job for registering the reference image from the client PC 130. When printing is executed, the inspection device 110 detects the conveyance of the printed matter and scans the printed matter with the image reading unit 310, and the scanned image is saved as the reference image in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Here, an example of scan inspection is described.

[0039] Next, it proceeds to S403, where the CPU 302 saves various setting values for inspection, such as the inspection area and inspection level, in the RAM 303 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to the user's inspection settings. The details of S403 will be described later. Next, it proceeds to S404. When the CPU 302 receives an inspection print job from the client PC 130, it detects the conveyance of the printed matter printed by the image forming apparatus 100, scans the sheet with the image reading unit 310, and saves the scanned image in the RAM 303 of the inspection apparatus 110. Then, the inspection of the printed matter is performed by comparing the scanned image obtained by scanning the printed matter printed by the inspection print job with the reference image registered in S402 based on the inspection setting values set in S403, and this process ends. The details of S404 will be described later.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a management screen 500 for inspection jobs displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1.

[0041] The job management screen 500 is displayed when the inspection apparatus 110 is started. Or it is displayed when the application is started by a user operation via the UI unit 320. It is possible to transition from this job management screen 500 to each process of font registration, reference image registration, inspection setting, and inspection.

[0042] The button 501 is a button for closing (hiding) the display of this screen 500. The new button 502 is a button for newly creating an inspection job, and here it instructs to perform registration of a reference image. The copy button 503 is a button for copying an already created inspection job. When the copy button 503 is pressed, a copy of the inspection job selected in the inspection job list 508 is made. By copying the inspection job, a reference image and inspection settings can be copied, and an inspection job for newly performing an inspection can be created. When the copy button 503 is pressed, it transitions to the inspection setting screens shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0043] The delete button 504 deletes the inspection job selected in the inspection job list 508. Here, it is also possible to select multiple inspection jobs and press the delete button 504 to delete multiple inspection jobs at once. The inspection settings button 505 performs inspection settings for the inspection job for which the registration of the reference image has been completed. The inspection button 506 gives an instruction to perform an inspection on the inspection job for which the registration of the reference image and the inspection settings have been completed.

[0044] Next, with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the inspection settings will be described.

[0045] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of an inspection settings screen 600 displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 in order to perform inspection settings for an inspection job in Embodiment 1. FIG. 6A shows a state in which the area setting for data inspection has been selected.

[0046] The reference image change button 601 is a button that gives an instruction to change the reference image. The inspection area selection button 602 is pressed by an operator when the operator wants to select an already set inspection area. The delete button 603 is an inspection area delete button and is pressed by an operator when the operator wants to delete the selected area. The rotation button 604 rotates the image displayed in the area 605. The area 605 is a display area that displays the loaded reference image. When there are a plurality of sheets to be read, the image displayed by the button 610 is switched to the previous page or the next page. Also, the front and back of the loaded sheet can be switched by the button 610. The OK button 611 saves the settings of the screen 600 and causes a transition to the job management screen 500 shown in FIG. 5. Also, by pressing the OK button 611, a transition may be made to an inspection screen (not shown) so that the inspection can be executed. The cancel button 612 is a cancel button for not saving the settings of the screen 600 and causing a transition to the job management screen 500 shown in FIG. 5.

[0047] The area setting button 621 for print image inspection is pressed when newly setting the area for print image inspection. After pressing this button 621, the operator sets the inspection area for print image inspection with respect to the reference image displayed in area 605. Area 606 shows an example of the setting of the area for print image inspection set by the operator.

[0048] The area setting button 622 for data inspection is pressed when newly setting the area for character inspection or barcode inspection. In FIG. 6A, the state where this button 622 is selected is shown. After pressing this button 622, the operator sets the inspection area for data inspection with respect to the reference image displayed in area 605. Area 607 shows an example of the setting of the character inspection area set by the operator. Also, area 608 shows an example of the setting of the barcode inspection area set by the operator.

[0049] The area setting button 623 for serial number inspection is pressed when newly setting the area for serial number inspection. After pressing this button 623, the operator sets the inspection area for serial number inspection with respect to the reference image displayed in area 605. Area 609 shows an example of the setting of the serial number inspection area set by the operator.

[0050] The setting 631 for data inspection indicates a group of UIs for setting the data inspection area when the data inspection area is selected in area 605. Here, it is assumed that the currently selected area is the character area 607. The setting area 632 for the applicable range sets the applicable range of the selected area. If nothing is selected, the selected inspection area is arranged only on the page currently displayed in area 605. When "the same side as the current page" is selected, the selected inspection area is arranged on the pages of the same side according to whether the selected inspection area is arranged on the front or back surface of the sheet. When "all pages" is selected, the selected inspection area is arranged on all pages.

[0051] The setting area 633 for collation check data is an area for setting the correct CSV file to be collated when performing the collation check. By pressing the button 634, a file can be selected and the selected file name is displayed. The specification of the correct CSV file is common for character check and barcode check.

[0052] The setting area 635 sets the data check area currently selected. Here, the orientation, selection of the character area or barcode area, font type, barcode type, presence or absence of collation check, and column specification of the correct CSV file during collation check are set. The setting item 636 sets the character orientation of the character area 607. The setting items 637 and 638 specify whether the currently selected area is a character string check or a barcode check. The setting item 639 sets the font for performing OCR processing on the character area 607. The setting item 640 sets the barcode type when barcode check is selected in the setting item 638. The setting item 641 sets the presence or absence of performing the collation check. When the collation check is set to "yes", using the correct CSV file specified in the setting area 633 and the column number specified in the setting item 642, OCR processing is performed on the character area 607, and a collation check is performed between the read character string and the character string specified in the correct CSV.

[0053] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of an inspection setting screen when the currently selected setting area is a sequential number inspection area. In FIG. 6B, the common parts with FIG. 6A are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. In FIG. 6B, it is assumed that the currently selected area is the sequential number inspection area 609.

[0054] The sequential inspection setting area 651 indicates a group of UIs for setting the sequential inspection area that is displayed when the sequential inspection area 609 is selected in the area 605. In the setting area 652, the settings for the currently selected sequential inspection area are made. Here, the rules for the sequential numbers are set. The rules for the sequential numbers include the specification of the start number, offset, number of digits, interval, and repetition. The setting item 653 is an item for selecting whether the sequential number value increases or decreases. If it is in ascending order, it increases, and if it is in descending order, it decreases. The setting item 654 is an item for setting the start number of the sequential number. The setting item 655 is an item for setting the increase or decrease value of the sequential number between sheets of the area to be subject to sequential inspection. In Embodiment 1, it is called the offset. The setting item 656 is an item for setting the number of digits of the sequential number. In the case of 5 digits such as "01234" in the sequential inspection area 609, "5" is specified. Also, it is not necessary to set the number of digits of the numerical value of the area to be inspected as it is. For example, even if the numerical value of the area to be inspected is 5 digits and only 3 digits of them are to be inspected, "3" may be set. The setting item 657 is an item for setting how many sheets the value increases or decreases by the offset amount. For example, when "2" is set for the interval, the value increases by the offset amount every 2 sheets. The setting item 658 is for setting the number of times the sequential number created by the settings of the setting item 653, the setting item 654, the setting item 655, the setting item 656, and the setting item 657 is repeated.

[0055] The setting items 660 to 664 included in the setting area 659 of the selected area are the same as the setting items 636 to 640 shown in FIG. 6A, so the description thereof is omitted. The setting item 665 is for setting whether to confirm the collation value generated according to the sequential number rule set in the sequential number setting area 652. Here, when the checkbox is checked, it operates to confirm the collation value. The details of these setting items will be described later.

[0056] Next, a setting example of the sequential inspection will be described with reference to FIG. 7. Here, it is assumed that it is a case of scanning and inspecting products. In the sequential inspection, if the images other than the sequential number part are common, only one image is scanned and registered as a reference image.

[0057] Figure 7(A) shows an example of an image to be inspected. Image 701 is Sheet 1, image 705 is Sheet 2, and image 709 is Sheet 3. The images are read and inspected in order from Sheet 1. Here, the image 701 of Sheet 1 is registered as the reference image.

[0058] Reference numerals 702 to 704, 706 to 708, and 710 to 712 represent the serial numbers printed on images 701, 705, and 709, respectively. Here, the user sets a serial number inspection area for serial numbers 702, 703, and 704.

[0059] Figure 7(B) shows an example of the serial number setting when the portion of serial number 702 is set as the serial number inspection area. Since the starting number of serial number 702 is "001", the starting number is set to "001". For serial number 702, it becomes 004 at serial number 706 on Sheet 2 and 007 at serial number 710 on Sheet 3, with the serial number increasing by 3 each time. Therefore, the offset indicating the increase or decrease is set to "3". Also, since serial numbers 702, 706, and 710 are three digits, the number of digits is set to "3". In the inspection images 701, 705, and 709 of Figure 7(A), the same value does not continue continuously, so the interval is set to "1". Also, since the serial number is not repeated, the repetition is set to "1".

[0060] Figure 7(C) is a diagram showing an example of an inspection image when the same serial number value is printed continuously. Here, the image 721 of Sheet 1 becomes the reference image.

[0061] Image 721 is Sheet 1, image 723 is Sheet 2, image 725 is Sheet 3, and image 727 is Sheet 4. The images are read and inspected in order from Sheet 1. Reference numerals 722, 724, 726, and 728 represent the serial numbers printed on images 721, 723, 725, and 727, respectively. Here, the user sets a serial number inspection area for serial number 722.

[0062] Figure 7(D) shows an example of the setting when the portion of serial number 722 is set as the serial number inspection area.

[0063] Since the starting number of the sequential number 722 is "001", set the starting number to "001". The sequential number 722 is 001 for the sequential number 724 on Sheet 2, 004 for the sequential number 726 on Sheet 3, and 004 for the sequential number 728 on Sheet 4, and the sequential number increases by 3 every other sheet. Therefore, since the increasing value is 3 each time, set the offset indicating the increase or decrease to "3". Also, since the sequential numbers 722, 724, 726, and 728 are three digits, set the number of digits to "3". Furthermore, in the inspection image of Fig. 7(C), the numerical value increases every two sheets, so set the interval to "2" as the number of consecutive sheets with the same value. Also, since the sequential number is not repeated, set the repetition to "1".

[0064] Fig. 7(E) is a diagram showing an example of an inspection image when the sequential number is repeated across multiple parts.

[0065] Image 731 is on Sheet 1, Image 733 is on Sheet 2, and Image 735 is on Sheet 3, and the images are read and inspected in order from Sheet 1. Here, the image 731 on Sheet 1 is the reference image. One part 730 is composed of images 731, 733, and 735, and the same images of part 730 are repeatedly printed for the second part 740 and the third part 750. The reference numbers 732, 734, and 736 represent the sequential numbers printed on images 731, 733, and 735, respectively. Here, the user sets a sequential number inspection area for the sequential number 732.

[0066] Figure 7(F) shows a setting example when serial number 732 is set as the serial number inspection area. Since the starting number of serial number 732 is 001, the starting number is set to "001". For serial number 732, the serial number increases by 3 each time, being 004 for serial number 734 on sheet 2 and 007 for serial number 736 on sheet 3. Therefore, the offset indicating the increase or decrease is set to "3". Also, since serial numbers 732, 734, and 736 are three digits, the number of digits is set to "3". In the inspection image of Figure 7(E), since the same value does not continue continuously, the interval is set to "1". For the second part of serial numbers 742, 744, 746 and the third part of serial numbers 752, 754, 756, the same serial numbers as the first part are printed. Therefore, since the serial numbers are repeatedly printed every 3 sheets, the repetition is set to "3".

[0067] In addition, in Embodiment 1, the setting is performed based on how many sheets the serial number is repeated for. However, for example, an end number may be set, and when the serial number increases and exceeds the end number, it may be controlled to return to the starting number. By setting the rule of the serial number in this way, even when there is no data file (reference image) such as a CSV file, it is possible to generate a collation value based on the rule.

[0068] When there is a data file such as a CSV file that is the reference image for each sheet as described above, the collation value (serial number) for each sheet can be confirmed by referring to that file. On the other hand, when generating a collation value based on the rule for generating the serial number, it cannot be confirmed before the inspection whether the collation value is correctly generated. If the collation value is not set correctly, the inspection may be carried out without noticing the setting error, resulting in waste paper. Therefore, in Embodiment 1, a method will be described in which a collation value is generated based on the setting value for setting the serial number, and the user can confirm the generated collation value before actually performing the inspection.

[0069] Next, in S403, the process of setting various inspection setting values such as the inspection area and inspection level according to the user's inspection settings will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the inspection setting process of S403 in FIG. 4. Note that the process shown in this flowchart is realized by the CPU 302 expanding and executing the program code stored in the ROM 304 in the RAM 303.

[0070] First, in S801, as described with reference to FIG. 7, the CPU 302 acquires the inspection target area set by the user and the setting values related to the inspection in that area. Next, the process proceeds to S802, where the CPU 302 determines whether sequential number inspection is included in the setting values acquired in S801. If it is determined that sequential number inspection is included, the process proceeds to S803; if it is determined that sequential number inspection is not included, the process proceeds to S808. In S803, the CPU 302 enables the sequential number confirmation function. Here, for example, the setting item 665 for confirming sequential numbers shown in FIG. 6B is set to a state where it can be set. That is, the setting item 665 can be set when at least one area subject to sequential number inspection is set. Then, the process proceeds to S804, where the CPU 302 checks the sequential numbers using the setting item 665, that is, determines whether the checkbox of the setting item 665 is checked. If it is determined that the checkbox of the setting item 665 is checked and sequential number confirmation is to be performed, the process proceeds to S805; if it is determined that the setting item 665 is not checked and sequential number confirmation is not to be performed, the process proceeds to S808. In S805, the CPU 302 copies the registered reference image. This is because in the case of the scan inspection product according to Embodiment 1 and in the case of a common pattern in the inspection of variable data, only one reference image is registered and that reference image is copied and used.

[0071] FIG. 9(A) shows an example of a reference image displayed in the area 605 of the inspection setting screen 600 shown in FIG. 6B according to the presence or absence of the setting of the setting item 665 for confirming sequential numbers. The reference image 901 shown in FIG. 9(A) is the reference image when inspecting the inspection images 701, 705, and 709 shown in FIG. 7(A).

[0072] The reference image 901 in Fig. 9(A) shows a reference image that can be confirmed in a state where the setting item 665 for confirming the serial number is not checked on the screen of Fig. 6B and is set not to confirm the serial number. Here, it is assumed that areas 902, 903, and 904 are set as serial number inspection areas.

[0073] When the serial number inspection setting shown in Fig. 7(B) is performed on area 902 here, "004" is set as the collation value in the area of sheet 2 (inspection image 705) printed during inspection corresponding to area 902, and "007" is set as the collation value in the corresponding area of sheet 3 (inspection image 709) (see Fig. 7(A)). However, in this case, since the setting item 665 is not checked, only the image 901 in Fig. 9(A) is displayed during the inspection setting. Therefore, the user cannot confirm under what collation value the inspection of variable data is performed in the reference image after sheet 2.

[0074] Next, the case where the setting item 665 for confirming the serial number is checked will be described with reference to Fig. 9(B).

[0075] Images 911, 915, and 919 show reference images that can be confirmed in a state where the setting item 665 for confirming the serial number is checked and is set to confirm the serial number. These reference images 911, 915, and 919 are compared and inspected with the inspection images 701, 705, and 709 shown in Fig. 7(A).

[0076] Images 915 and 919 are images obtained by duplicating image 911, and are shown in a grayed-out display so that it can be understood that they are duplicates. In Embodiment 1, the duplicate images are shown in a grayed-out display, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, words indicating duplication may be displayed, or displays different from normal image displays such as changing the color of the display frame or the state of the frame line, or explanations may be provided. Also, in Embodiment 1, duplicates of images for two sheets are made, but the present invention is not limited to this, and duplication may be performed as long as the regularity of the serial number can be understood. Also, on a setting screen (not shown), the user may be able to specify the number of sheets to be duplicated.

[0077] The displays of the copied reference images, i.e., Image 915 and Image 919, are displayed in the area 605 by switching the display to the previous page or the next page using the button 610 shown in FIG. 6B. In Embodiment 1, after copying a predetermined number of images, the button 610 is pressed to switch the image display. However, control may be performed such that when the button 610 is pressed, the next reference image is copied and displayed.

[0078] Next, the process proceeds to S806, and the CPU 302 generates a collation value from the set value of the serial number inspection area. Next, the process proceeds to S807, and the CPU 302 overlays and displays the collation value generated in S807 above the number of the reference image. Here, as shown in the serial number inspection areas 912, 913, 914, 916, 917, 918, 920, 921, 922 in FIG. 9(B), the collation value is displayed above the serial number of the reference image. The collation values in the serial number inspection areas 916 and 920 are the collation values generated by adding the offset shown in FIG. 7(B) (here, 3) to the number "001" in the area 912. The collation values in the areas 917 and 921 are the collation values generated by adding the offset ("3") shown in FIG. 7(B) to the number "002" in the area 913. The collation values in the areas 918 and 922 are the collation values generated by adding the offset ("3") shown in FIG. 7(B) to the number "003" in the area 914.

[0079] Thereby, the user can confirm whether the serial numbers of the reference images 911, 915, 919 to be compared with the inspection images 701, 705, 709 shown in FIG. 7(A) are correctly generated before actually performing the inspection.

[0080] Note that here, the number of reference images that are copied and displayed may be repeatedly displayed up to, for example, three times the number of registered reference images, or the number of times of repeated display may be settable by the user.

[0081] FIG. 9(C) shows an enlarged view of region 912, with the collation value 923 superimposed and displayed above region 912. In Embodiment 1, the collation value is displayed above the number of the reference image, but this is not restrictive; it may be displayed at another position or in a display method such as a balloon display. Also, instead of arranging and displaying them vertically as in FIG. 9(C), when a consecutive number region is selected, it may be displayed, for example, pop-up on the inspection setting screen 600 of FIG. 6(B).

[0082] When attaching consecutive numbers to a plurality of reference images obtained by duplicating the reference image in this way, by displaying a collation value corresponding to the set value of the consecutive number, it becomes possible to confirm whether the consecutive number value has been set correctly before actually performing the inspection.

[0083] Then, the process proceeds to S808, and the CPU 302 determines whether the setting of the inspection region is completed. Here, it is determined based on whether the OK button 611 shown in FIG. 6B is pressed. If it is determined that the OK button 611 has been pressed, it is determined that the inspection setting is completed, and the process proceeds to S809. If the OK button 611 has not been pressed, the process returns to S801 and the above-described process is executed. In S809, the CPU 302 saves the set value set on the inspection setting screen in the RAM 303, and ends the process of this inspection setting.

[0084] Next, the inspection process for inspecting the printed matter in S404 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the inspection process for inspecting the printed matter in S404 of FIG. 4. The process shown in this flowchart is realized by the CPU 302 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 304 into the RAM 303 and executing it.

[0085] In S1001, the CPU 302 acquires the inspection setting values stored in the RAM 303. Next, it proceeds to S1002 where the CPU 302 generates a collation value for sequential inspection from the inspection setting values read in S1001. Here, the inspection setting values read are the inspection setting values after it was confirmed in S807 of the inspection settings in FIG. 8 that the collation value was correct. Therefore, it can be determined that the collation value generated based on this is also correct. Here, based on the inspection setting values, a collation value for each sheet to be inspected is generated. This process is the same as the process of S806 in FIG. 8 described above. Then it proceeds to S1003 where the CPU 302 reads the inspection image. Here, when it detects the conveyance of a printed matter (sheet) printed by the image forming apparatus 100, it scans the printed matter with the image reading unit 310 to acquire the scanned image and stores it in the RAM 303 of the inspection apparatus 110. Next, it proceeds to S1004 where the CPU 302 updates the number of sheets read. Here, each time one sheet is read, the sheet count is incremented by 1.

[0086] In S1005, the CPU 302 determines whether the number of sheets read has exceeded the planned number of sheets to be read. Assume that this planned number of sheets to be read is set in advance by the user on a setting screen (not shown). It may also be configured to receive from the print server 140 as inspection job data. If it is determined in S1005 that the planned number of sheets to be read has not been exceeded, it proceeds to S1006, and if it is determined that the planned number of sheets to be read has been exceeded, it proceeds to S1009.

[0087] In S1006, based on the collation value generated in S1002 and the scanned image read in S1003, the CPU 302 performs OCR processing on the serial number inspection area and conducts a collation inspection with the recognized character string. In this serial number inspection, the collation is performed using the collation value corresponding to the number of sheets updated in S1004. Also, if the area for printed image inspection is set here, a comparison is made between the reference image and the scanned image to detect dirt and the like. Further, if the area for data inspection is set, read inspections and collation inspections of the data inspection area are performed according to the inspection settings. Then, the CPU 302 proceeds to S1007 and displays the inspection result on the UI unit 320. Next, the CPU 302 proceeds to S1008 and determines whether there is a next sheet to be read. If there is a next sheet to be read here, it returns to S1003 to read the next sheet. If there is no next sheet to be read, it proceeds to S1010.

[0088] In S1009, the CPU 302 displays a message screen indicating that the reading has exceeded the planned number of sheets on the UI unit 320 and proceeds to S1010. In S1010, the CPU 302 saves the inspection result in the RAM 303 and ends the inspection. The above is the explanation of the inspection flow of S404.

[0089] As described above, according to Embodiment 1, before the inspection is carried out, the collation value of the variable data portion of the reference image can be confirmed, so that the occurrence of printed matter determined as defective due to a setting error in the variable data portion can be reduced.

[0090] [Embodiment 2] In the above-described Embodiment 1, at the time of setting the serial number inspection, the reference image is copied and displayed, and by displaying it together with the collation value of the serial number inspection, a method has been described in which the collation value can be confirmed before the inspection is carried out and setting mistakes can be reduced. However, in the method of Embodiment 1, there is a possibility that the listability is poor and it is difficult to confirm the regularity of the serial number collation values. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, a method of confirming the collation values of the serial numbers by displaying a list as a list of inspection area settings without displaying the reference image will be described. Hereinafter, regarding Embodiment 2, the parts different from the above-described Embodiment 1 will be described. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0091] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection setting screen when the setting of the serial number inspection area is selected in Embodiment 2. Note that parts common to FIG. 6B are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0092] The inspection area list button 1101 is a button for displaying a list of inspection areas set on the inspection setting screen. When the inspection area list button 1101 is pressed, the screen transitions to the inspection area list screen of FIG. 12.

[0093] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a list of inspection areas when the inspection settings shown in FIG. 7(B) are performed when inspecting the inspection image shown in FIG. 7(A) in Embodiment 2.

[0094] FIG. 12(A) is a diagram showing an example of the inspection area list screen 1200 in Embodiment 2.

[0095] The setting item 1201 sets whether to confirm the collation value generated according to the serial number rule set in the setting area 652 of FIG. 6B. FIG. 12(A) shows an example of a screen in which the setting item 1201 is not checked and the confirmation of the collation value is OFF. When the OK button 1202 is pressed, the inspection area list screen 1200 is closed.

[0096] Rows 1211, 1212, and 1213 of the inspection area list show the setting contents for each inspection area set with the registered reference image. Row 1211 shows the setting contents when the inspection settings of FIG. 7(B) are performed on the area 702 of sheet 1 in FIG. 7(A). Therefore, the collation value in this case is "001". Row 1212 shows the setting contents when the start number is set to "002" in the inspection settings of FIG. 7(B) for the area 703 of sheet 1 in FIG. 7(A). Therefore, the collation value in this case is "002". Row 1213 shows the setting contents when the start number is set to "003" in the inspection settings of FIG. 7(B) for the area 704 of sheet 1 in FIG. 7(A). Therefore, the collation value in this case is "003".

[0097] FIG. 12(B) shows a screen in a state where the setting item 1201 is checked and is set to confirm the collation value. In FIG. 12(B), parts common to FIG. 12(A) are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0098] Rows 1214 to 1219 are the setting contents of the reference images applied to each sheet (here, sheets 2 and 3) where no reference image is registered after the registered reference image, that is, the assumed sheets printed at the time of inspection. Here, the setting contents for each inspection area of each reference image in the sequential inspection are shown. Here, the offset “3” of the inspection setting in FIG. 7(B) is applied to the collation values corresponding to areas 1 to 3 of sheets 2 and 3, and “004” to “009” are set as the actually collated collation values.

[0099] In addition, in FIG. 12(B), the information on sheets 2 and 3 where no reference image is registered is displayed in grayed out, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the background color for displaying the information on sheets 2 and 3 may be set to a color different from rows 1211 to 1213 of the registered reference image, or a display different from the list display of the sheets where the reference image is registered, such as changing the color of the frame line or the display form of the frame line, may be performed.

[0100] As described above, according to the second embodiment, by displaying the collation values for the sequential inspection of the sheets where no reference image is registered in a list before actually performing the inspection, it is possible to provide an inspection system in which it is easy to confirm the regularity.

[0101] (Other Embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and causing one or more processors in a computer of the system or device to read and execute the program. Further, it can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0102] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, in order to disclose the scope of the present invention, the following claims are attached.

Explanation of Signs

[0103] 100... Image forming apparatus, 110... Inspection apparatus, 305... Inspection processing unit, 310... Image reading unit, 320... UI unit

Claims

1. an image reading means for reading a printed matter and acquiring a read image; an inspection means for inspecting the read image; a region setting means for setting a data inspection region to be subjected to inspection of variable data without decoding processing; a display means for displaying a reference image including the variable data; 13. An inspection system, comprising: said display means for displaying a plurality of variable data before said inspection means executes an inspection.

2. 2. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein said display means displays said reference image and said plurality of variable data.

3. The inspection system according to claim 2 , wherein the reference image is a plurality of reference images each including one of the plurality of variable data.

4. 2. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein said display means displays a list of said plurality of variable data.

5. 5. The inspection system according to claim 4, wherein the list associates management numbers of the data inspection areas with the plurality of variable data.

6. 5. The inspection system according to claim 4, wherein the list associates the plurality of variable data with information of a printing surface including the plurality of variable data.

7. 5. The inspection system according to claim 4, wherein the list associates the plurality of variable data with sheet information including the plurality of variable data.

8. The area setting means further sets a data inspection area to be inspected for different variable data accompanied by a decoding process; 5. The inspection system according to claim 4, wherein said display means does not display a list of said different variable data.

9. 9. The inspection system of claim 8, wherein the inspection of the different variable data is a code inspection.

10. 2. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the inspection of the variable data is an inspection of a serial number.

11. The inspection system further comprises: an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet; a conveying means for conveying a sheet of paper on which an image has been formed by the image forming means, 2. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the image reading means reads an image on the paper conveyed by the conveying means.

Images