Information processing device and a control method for the same

Abstract

To present a user with an easy way for the user to understand which inspection criterion is applied to the relevant pixel when different inspection areas overlap, where different inspection criteria are applied.SOLUTION: Multiple inspection areas with different inspection levels are set for a reference image when setting an inspection level for determining the quality of an image of an inspected surface on the basis of a comparison between a captured image of a printed surface to be inspected and the reference image, and an inspection level for an overlapping area is specified on the basis of a predetermined priority order when there is an overlap area for multiple inspection areas, and the specified inspection level for the overlapping area is displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for inspecting the quality of printed matter in a printing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] There is known an inspection apparatus that reads printed matter printed by a printing apparatus and inspects its quality. The inspection apparatus can detect image defects such as dirt and printing omission, character errors, barcode quality, and the like.

[0003] Since the required quality varies depending on the user's work mode and the printed matter, it is important to perform a necessary and sufficient inspection for the inspection requirements. If the inspection criteria are too loose, printed matter containing defects will be shipped. However, if the inspection criteria are too strict, printed matter that does not need to be defective will be regarded as defective, resulting in an increase in the number of discarded sheets or the need for the user to visually confirm again whether there are any defects among the defects.

[0004] In order to solve such problems, a technique for applying different inspection criteria to a fixed area and a variable area in variable data printing has been disclosed (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in the prior art, it is not assumed that areas to which different inspection criteria are applied overlap within an image. Therefore, when areas to which inspection criteria are applied overlap within an image, it is not possible to confirm whether the inspection is performed according to the desired inspection criteria by the user. Accordingly, there is a problem that it is difficult to confirm whether the inspection is performed by applying the inspection criteria required by the user to the desired area of the desired print data.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to present, when inspection areas to which different inspection criteria are applied overlap, in such a manner that the user can easily grasp which inspection criteria are applied to the pixel.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is an information processing apparatus for setting an inspection level for determining the quality of an image of an inspection surface of a printed matter based on a comparison between a captured image obtained by capturing the inspection surface of the printed matter and a reference image, the apparatus comprising: setting means for setting a plurality of inspection areas having different inspection levels with respect to the reference image; specifying means for specifying an inspection level of the overlapping area based on a predetermined priority order when there is an overlapping area with respect to the plurality of inspection areas; and display control means for displaying the specified inspection level of the overlapping area.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, when inspection areas to which different inspection criteria are applied overlap, the user can easily grasp which inspection criteria are applied to the pixel.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, unless otherwise specified, the present invention can be applied to a single device or an inspection apparatus composed of a plurality of devices as long as the functions according to the present invention are realized. Also, unless otherwise specified, as long as the functions of the present invention are realized, the inspection apparatus may be connected via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) and processing may be performed. That is, the system configuration in which various terminals described in the following embodiments are connected is an example, and it goes without saying that there are various configuration examples according to the application and purpose.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system in the present embodiment, which represents the configurations of an information processing apparatus, an inspection apparatus, and a printing apparatus. Note that, although the printing apparatus in the present embodiment will be described using an electrophotographic printing apparatus, the printing apparatus in the present embodiment may be a printing apparatus with a different image forming method such as an inkjet method or an offset method.

[0013] The printing apparatus 0101 is connected to the information processing apparatus 0109 via a cable 0112. The information processing apparatus 0109 is connected to a client computer 0110 and an inspection apparatus 0108 via a network 0113.

[0014] The printing device 0101 includes a UI panel 0102, a paper feed deck 0103, and a paper feed deck 0104. Further, an optional deck 0105 consisting of three-stage paper feed decks is connected. The printing device 0101 is, for example, an electrophotographic printing device. Also, the UI panel 0102 is a user interface equipped with, for example, a capacitive touch panel.

[0015] Furthermore, the printing device 0101 includes an inspection unit 0106 and a high-capacity stacker 0107. The inspection unit is connected to an inspection device 0108 via a cable 0114. The high-capacity stacker 0107 includes a main tray and a top tray, and thousands of sheets of paper can be stacked in the main tray at once.

[0016] The print job is generated on the client computer 0110, transmitted to the information processing device 0109 via the network 0113, and managed by the information processing device 0109. Then, the print job is transmitted from the information processing device 0109 to the printing device 0101 through the cable 0112, and the printing device 0101 performs the process of printing on the paper. Note that the print job may be generated and managed in the information processing device 0109, transmitted to the printing device 0101 via the network 0112, and managed by the printing device 0101.

[0017] Note that the client computer 0110, the information processing device 0109, and the inspection device 0108 may be connected to the cable 0112 in a form that can communicate with the printing device 0101. That is, the connection form of the printing device 0101, the information processing device 0109, and the client computer 0110 shown in this embodiment is an example, and it goes without saying that there are various other connection forms in addition to those shown in this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the printing device 0101, the inspection device 0108, the high-capacity stacker 0107, the information processing device 0109, and the client computer 0110 of this embodiment.

[0019] The CPU (Central Processing Unit / Central Processing Unit) 0201 controls the control and calculation in each part within the printing device 0101 via the system bus 0212. The CPU 0201 is responsible for executing programs stored in the storage unit 0205 and loaded into the RAM (Random Access Memory) 0202. The RAM 0202 is a type of general volatile memory device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0201 and is used as the work area of the CPU 0201 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0205 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the printing device.

[0020] The engine I / F 0209 is responsible for communication and control with the printer engine 02010. The paper feed deck I / F 0204 is responsible for communication and control with the paper feed deck 0211. The paper feed deck 0211 is a general term for the hardware configurations of the paper feed decks 0103, 0104, and the option deck 0105. The UI panel 0203 is the hardware configuration of the UI panel 0102 and is a user interface for performing all operations of the printing device 0101. In this embodiment, the UI panel 0203 is provided with a capacitive touch panel.

[0021] The network interface (hereinafter, NW I / F) 0207 is connected to the NW I / F 0238 of the information processing device 0109 via the cable 0213 and is responsible for communication between the information processing device 0109 and the printing device 0101. In this example, the interfaces connected to the system buses 0212 and 0239 are directly connected, but the information processing device 0109 and the printing device 0101 may be connected in a form such as a network, etc., and the connection form is not limited. The video I / F 0206 is connected to the video I / F 0233 via the video cable 0241 and is responsible for communication of image data between the information processing device 0109 and the printing device 0101.

[0022] Note that the connection interface between the information processing apparatus 0109 and the printing apparatus 0101 may take a form that integrates the functions of the NW I / F 0238 and the video I / F 0233. Also, the connection interface between the printing apparatus 0101 and the information processing apparatus 0109 may take a form that integrates the functions of the NWI / F 0207 and the video I / F 0206.

[0023] The accessory I / F 0208 is connected to the accessory I / F 0214 and the accessory I / F 0220 via the cable 0225. That is, the printing apparatus 0101 communicates with the inspection unit 0106 and the large-capacity stacker 0107 via the accessory I / Fs 0208, 0214, and 0220.

[0024] The CPU 0216 controls the execution of programs stored in the storage unit 0247 and loaded into the RAM 0217 for control, arithmetic operations in each part within the inspection unit 0106 via the system bus 0219. The RAM 0217 is a type of general-purpose volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0216 and is used as the work area of the CPU 0216 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0247 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the inspection apparatus. The inspection apparatus I / F 0215 is connected to the inspection apparatus unit I / F 0231 via the cable 0248. That is, the inspection unit 0106 communicates with the inspection apparatus 0108 via the inspection apparatus I / F 0215 and the inspection apparatus unit I / F 0231.

[0025] The imaging unit 0218 is equipped with an imaging function that mounts, for example, a contact image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CIS), captures the paper passing through the inspection unit, and transmits the captured image to the inspection apparatus 0108 via the inspection apparatus I / F 0215. Note that the CIS for the imaging unit 0218 is an example of a sensor, and other types of sensors such as a CCD image sensor may be used, and the imaging method is not limited.

[0026] CPU 02220 controls the execution of programs stored in the storage unit 0248 and loaded into the RAM 0222 for control, calculation, and operations in each part within the large-capacity stacker 0107 via the system bus 0224. The RAM 0222 is a type of general volatile memory device that can be directly accessed from the CPU 0221 and is used as the work area of the CPU 0221 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0248 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the inspection device. The paper discharge unit 0223 controls the paper discharge operations to the main tray and the top tray, and monitors and controls the loading status of each of the main tray and the top tray.

[0027] CPU 0226 controls the execution of programs stored in the storage unit 0228 and loaded into the RAM 0227 for control, calculation, etc. in each part within the inspection device 0108 via the system bus 0230. The RAM 0227 is a type of general volatile memory device that can be directly accessed from the CPU 0226 and is used as the work area of the CPU 0226 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0228 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the inspection device. The PDL analysis unit 0229 reads PDL data such as PDF, PostScript, PCL, etc. received from the client computer 0110 or the information processing device 0109 and executes interpretation processing. The display unit 0245 is, for example, a liquid crystal display connected to the inspection device, and accepts user input to the inspection device, displays the state of the inspection device, and performs display control. The CPU 0234 controls the execution of programs stored in the storage unit 0236 and loaded into the RAM 0235 for control, calculation, etc. in each part within the information processing device 0109 via the system bus 0239. The RAM 0235 is a type of general volatile memory device that can be directly accessed from the CPU 0234 and is used as the work area of the CPU 0234 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0236 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the information processing device. The network interface (hereinafter, NW I / F) 0237 is connected to the NW I / Fs 0232 and 0240 via a network. The information processing device 0109 communicates with the inspection device 0108 via the NW I / F 0237 and the NW I / F 0232. Also, the information processing device 0109 communicates with the client computer 0110 via the NW I / F 0237 and the NW I / F 0240.

[0028] CPU 0243 controls the execution of programs stored in the storage unit 0245 and loaded into the RAM 0242 for control, calculation, and operation in each part within the client computer 0110 via the system bus 0246. The RAM 0242 is a type of general volatile memory device that can be directly accessed from the CPU 0243 and is used as the work area of the CPU 0243 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0244 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the client computer.

[0029] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the internal configurations of the printing device 0101, the inspection unit 0106, and the high-capacity stacker 0107. The printing device 0101 receives user input via the UI panel 0102 and displays printing and device status. The paper feed decks 0103 and 0104 can accommodate various types of paper. In each paper feed deck, only the top sheet of the accommodated paper can be separated and conveyed to the paper conveyance path 0305. 0301 to 0304 are developing stations, and toner images are formed using colored toners of Y, M, C, and K respectively to form color images. The toner images formed here are primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 0306. The intermediate transfer belt 0306 rotates clockwise in the figure, and the toner images are transferred to the paper conveyed from the paper conveyance path 0305 at the secondary transfer position 0307. The fixing unit 0308 includes a pressure roller and a heating roller, and when the paper passes between the rollers, the toner is melted and pressure-bonded to fix the toner image on the paper. The paper that has passed through the fixing unit 0308 is conveyed to 0312 through the paper conveyance path 0309. If further melting and pressure-bonding are required for fixing depending on the type of paper, after passing through the fixing unit 0308, it is conveyed to the second fixing unit 0310 using the upper paper conveyance path, additional melting and pressure-bonding are performed, and then it is conveyed to 0312 through the paper conveyance path 0311. When the image formation mode is double-sided, the paper is conveyed to the paper reversal path 0313, reversed at 0313, and then conveyed to the double-sided conveyance path 0314, and the second-sided image transfer is performed at the secondary transfer position 0307.

[0030] Inside the inspection unit 0106, CISs 0315 and 0316 are arranged to face each other. CIS 0315 is a sensor for reading the upper surface of the paper, and CIS 0316 is a sensor for reading the lower surface of the paper. The inspection unit 0106 scans (images) the paper using CISs 0315 and 0316 at the timing when the paper conveyed to the paper conveyance path 0317 reaches a predetermined position. The scanned image (captured image) is transmitted to the inspection device 0108 via the inspection device I / F 0215 and the inspection unit I / F 0231. The CPU 0226 determines whether there are defects in the received image and notifies the inspection unit 0106 of the determined result via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and the inspection device I / F 0215 again. The CPU 0216 notifies the mass stacker 0107 of the received determination result via the accessory I / Fs 0214 and 0220.

[0031] 0107 is a mass stacker capable of stacking a large volume of paper. The mass stacker 0107 has a main tray 0324 as a tray for stacking paper. The paper that has passed through the inspection unit 0106 enters the mass stacker 0107 through the paper conveyance path 0319. The paper is stacked on the main tray 0324 via the sheet conveyance path 0322 from the paper conveyance path 0319. Furthermore, the mass stacker 0107 has a top tray 0320 as a paper discharge tray. The CPU 0221 discharges the paper detected to have defects by the inspection device 0108 to the top tray 0320. When outputting to the top tray 0320, the paper is conveyed to the top tray 0320 via the paper conveyance path 0321 from the paper conveyance path 0319. 0323 is a reversing unit for reversing the sheet. This reversing unit 0323 is used when stacking the paper on the main tray 0324. When stacking on the main tray 0324, the paper is reversed once by the reversing unit 0323 so that the direction of the incoming paper is the same as the direction of the paper at the time of stacking. When conveying to the top tray 0320, since the sheet is discharged as it is without flipping at the time of stacking, the reversing operation at the reversing unit 0323 is not performed.

[0032] Figure 4 is an operation flowchart showing the basic operation of the inspection device 0108 during inspection.

[0033] In S0401, the CPU 0226 receives an instruction to start reading an image from the user via the display unit 0245. Next, it proceeds to S0402, and if there is a sheet to be inspected, it proceeds to S0403.

[0034] In S0403, the inspection unit I / F 0231 receives, from the inspection device I / F 0215, the images scanned by the CISs 0315 and 0316. Next, in S0404, the CPU 0226 compares the reference image stored in the RAM 0227 with the scanned image of the inspection target received in S0403. In the case of single-sided inspection, comparison processing is performed on the image of one side (the captured image of the inspected surface), and in the case of double-sided inspection, comparison processing is performed on the images of both sides respectively. This reference image is obtained by scanning, with the CISs 0315 and 0316, the paper printed in advance by the printing device 0101 before the start of this flow, transmitting it from the inspection device I / F 0215 to the inspection unit I / F 0231, and storing it in the RAM 0227. In this comparison operation, first, characteristic points of the image are used as reference points for alignment to align the image positions of the reference image and the scanned image of the inspection target. Next, in the scanned image of the inspection target, the four corners of the paper and the alignment reference points of the scanned image are analyzed to detect whether there is any misalignment of the image with respect to the paper. Next, the density values of the reference image and the scanned image of the inspection target are compared pixel by pixel. As a result of the above, if no defect is detected, the inspection result is OK. In the case of double-sided inspection, if no defect is detected in the images of both sides, the inspection result is OK, and if a defect is detected in either one of the images of both sides, the inspection result is NG.

[0035] Next, in S0405, if the inspection result is OK, it proceeds to S0406, and the inspection unit I / F 0231 instructs the inspection device I / F 0215 that the inspection result is OK, that is, to discharge the paper to the main tray 0324 of the high-capacity stacker 0107. Then it proceeds to S0407, and S0402 to S0407 are repeated until the inspection of all sheets is completed. When the inspection of all sheets is completed, it proceeds to S0408, and the CPU 0226 receives an instruction from the user to end the image reading via the display unit 0245.

[0036] In S0405, if the inspection result is NG, proceed to S0408. In S0408, the inspection unit I / F0231 instructs the inspection device I / F0215 of the NG inspection result, that is, the paper discharge to the top tray 0320 of the large-capacity stacker 0107. Then proceed to S0407, and thereafter, the process can be terminated in the same manner as in the case of the above-described OK inspection result.

[0037] Note that the example shown here is just an example. For example, the user's image reading start instruction on the display unit 0245 may be automatically executed in conjunction with the print start instruction in the printing device 0101, the information processing device 0109, or the client computer 0110. Also, the user's image reading end instruction on the display unit 0245 may be automatically executed in conjunction with the print end in the printing device 0101, and the form is not limited.

[0038] Figure 5 is an operation flowchart showing the basic operation of the inspection unit 0106 during inspection.

[0039] In S0501, the CPU0201 starts printing. Next, proceed to S0502, and if there is a sheet to be inspected, proceed to S0503.

[0040] In S0503, the CIS0315 and CIS0316 scan the image printed on the conveyed paper. Next, proceed to S0504, and the inspection device I / F0215 transmits the image scanned in S0503 to the inspection unit I / F0231.

[0041] Next, proceed to S0505. If the inspection device I / F0215 receives the inspection result from the inspection unit I / F0231, proceed to S0506. If the inspection result is OK, proceed to S0507. The accessory I / F0214 instructs the accessory I / F0220 to discharge the paper on which the image scanned in S0503 is printed to the main tray 0324 of the high-capacity stacker 0107. Then proceed to S0508, and repeat S0502 - S0508 until the inspection of all sheets is completed. When the inspection of all sheets is finished, that is, when the printing is also finished, end the flow.

[0042] At S0506, if the inspection result is NG, proceed to S0509. The accessory I / F0214 instructs the accessory I / F0220 to discharge the paper on which the image scanned in S0503 is printed to the top tray 0320 of the high-capacity stacker 0107. Thereafter, proceed to S0508, and the process can be ended in the same manner as in the case where the above inspection result is OK.

[0043] At S0505, if for some reason such as the inspection device 0108 not being in the inspection state or the operation of the inspection device 0108 not being in time, the inspection result is not received, proceed to S0509. At this time, the CPU0216 notifies the accessory I / F0214 to discharge to the top tray 0320 so that the products with OK inspection results and the products that could not be inspected are not mixed. Then, the accessory I / F0214 instructs the accessory I / F0220 to discharge directly to the paper discharge destination specified in the print job and proceeds to S0508. Thereafter, the process can be ended in the same manner as in the case where the above inspection result is received.

[0044] Figures 6(a), (b), and (c) are inspection setting screens displayed on the display unit 0245 of the inspection device 0108. The inspection setting screen 0601 includes a menu bar 0602 and an inspection parameter setting section 0604. The inspection setting screen 0601 displays the reference image already registered in the inspection job to which the inspection setting is applied.

[0045] The menu bar 0602 includes buttons 0603, 0608 to 0619. It includes the inspection standard confirmation button 0603 and the button 0608 for replacing the already registered standard image. The inspection standard confirmation button 0603 is also a display switching button for switching between the two display screens described later. The button 0609 switches the mouse pointer (not shown) that the display unit 0245 receives instructions from the user at its coordinates between grab and pointer. It includes the button 0610 for specifying the inspection area described later as a rectangle, and the button 0611 for specifying it as an ellipse. It also includes the button 0612 for reverting the executed process, the button 0613 for redoing, the copy button 0614 of the inspection area, the cut button 0615, the paste button 0616, and the delete button 0617. Furthermore, it includes the button 0618 for changing the zoom magnification and the button 0619 for fitting the displayed image to the screen. By specifying the buttons included in the menu bar 0620, the inspection areas of each inspection standard are set on the image. For example, by selecting 0605 with the mouse, the inspection standard "important" is specified, and further, by selecting the button 0610 with the mouse, a rectangular inspection area can be specified. After that, on the image, for example, the area 0622 in Fig. 6(b) is specified.

[0046] The inspection parameter setting unit 0604 receives the positional deviation setting and inspection parameter setting from the user. The positional deviation in the positional deviation setting is the allowable value of the positional deviation, and this allowable value can be set by the user. Fig. 6(a) shows a setting that allows the positional deviation in the paper conveyance direction to be up to 1 mm as "positional deviation (vertical)" and the positional deviation in the main scanning direction to be up to 2 mm as "positional deviation (horizontal)". In the printing device 0101, conveyance deviation may occur during paper conveyance, or there may be a slight deviation in the printing position of the image for each sheet. In order to avoid such a positional deviation from reducing the inspection accuracy, the allowable value of the positional deviation is defined.

[0047] Furthermore, in the inspection parameter setting, it is possible to view the inspection levels for circular defects and streak defects for each inspection criterion ("important", "standard"), and to change the inspection level in the combo box. In this embodiment, since the inspection levels are defined as 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 in the order of strictness of inspection, "important" and "standard" shall be set so that the inspection levels do not reverse. This can be achieved, for example, by changing the display so that when inspection level 5 is selected for "standard", only inspection levels 7 or 6 can be selected for "important". Note that in this embodiment, for the area where the inspection criterion "excluded" is specified (inspection exclusion area), since it is an area where inspection is not performed, a combo box for selecting the inspection level is not provided.

[0048] Also, by specifying 0605, the color of the frame of the inspection area to which the corresponding inspection criterion is applied can be changed. When 0605 is clicked, for example, a color selection menu (not shown) is opened, and the display unit 0245 accepts color changes by the user according to the presented options.

[0049] Figure 6(b) shows the state where the inspection area is drawn by the user, and the display unit 0245 accepts the user's selection and various settings. In Figure 6(b), the fact that the inspection criterion "important" is selected is shown by inverting the display of the "important" option. In Figure 6(b), the inspection areas 0622, 0623, and 0625 have the inspection criterion "important" specified. The inspection area 0624 has the inspection criterion "standard" pointed out. Also, the inspection area 0626 has the inspection criterion "excluded" specified. In this embodiment, when the inspection areas overlap as in Figure 6(b), the inspection criteria shall be applied in the priority order of inspection exclusion, inspection levels 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1. This can be realized, for example, by determining which inspection criterion to use for each pixel from the image coordinates at the time of inspection and then performing the inspection. Or, all pixels can be inspected once at each inspection level, and if the same pixel is inspected at different inspection levels due to overlap, the inspection result may be determined based on the above priority order. As the inspection level increases, the inspection judgment criteria become stricter. In this embodiment, it is assumed that in the case where different numbers are printed for each sheet in the area where inspection exclusion is pointed out. Therefore, inspection exclusion is set to have the highest priority, and this area is ensured not to be inspected. However, for example, if it is desired to always inspect the specified area, inspection exclusion may be set to have the lowest priority. In any case, information indicating the priority order is retained, and the inspection criteria are applied based on that priority order. Regarding the inspection level, the priority order is set so that the higher inspection level has priority.

[0050] When the inspection standard confirmation button 0603 is pressed, the state of Fig. 6(c) is displayed. That is, based on the aforementioned priority order, it shows by filling the area which inspection standard this pixel is inspected by. Areas 0627 and 0628 indicate that the inspection standard is "important". Area 0629 indicates that the inspection standard is "standard". Area 0630 indicates that the inspection is "excluded". In this embodiment, the colors of areas 0627 and 0628 are the same as the color of 0605, the color of area 0629 is the same as the color of 0620, and the color of area 0630 is the same as the color of 0621. Therefore, it is easier for the user to confirm which inspection standard each area is. Note that an example of making the colors the same is shown, but it doesn't have to be color, it can also be a pattern, as long as a plurality of standards and the areas corresponding to those standards can be distinguished. Furthermore, in Fig. 6(b) as well, the frame line colors of areas 0622, 0623, and 0625 can be the same as the colors of areas 0627, 0628, and 0605. And the frame line color of area 0624 can be the same as the colors of areas 0629 and 0620, and the frame line color of area 0626 can be the same as the colors of areas 0630 and 0621.

[0051] Also, when the inspection standard confirmation button 0603 is pressed again, the state of Fig. 6(b) is displayed. In Fig. 6(b), it can be confirmed that area 0624 and area 0625 overlap, and area 0625 and area 0626 overlap. And in Fig. 6(c), the overlapping area of area 0624 and area 0625 in Fig. 6(b) is area 0628, and it can be confirmed that the inspection standard is "important". Also, the overlapping area of area 0625 and area 0626 in Fig. 6(b) is area 0630, and it can be confirmed that the inspection standard is "excluded".

[0052] Note that the operations of Fig. 6(b) and Fig. 6(c) don't have to be by pressing the inspection standard confirmation button 0603. For example, when the mouse pointer is aligned with the inspection standard confirmation button 0603, the state of Fig. 6(c) can be displayed. At this time, when the mouse pointer leaves the inspection standard confirmation button 0603, the state of Fig. 6(b) is displayed.

[0053] The inspection setting screen 0601 further includes a "Cancel" button 0607 for canceling the setting and a "Complete" button 0606 for ending the setting.

[0054] Hereinafter, the processing characteristic of the present embodiment will be described using a flowchart.

[0055] The program of the printing apparatus according to this flow is stored in the storage unit 0205 of the printing apparatus 0101, read into the RAM 0202, and executed by the CPU 0201. Also, the program of the inspection apparatus according to this flow is stored in the storage unit 0228 of the inspection apparatus 0108, read into the RAM 0227, and executed by the CPU 0226. Also, the program of the information processing apparatus according to this flow is stored in the storage unit 0236 of the information processing apparatus 0109, read into the RAM 0235, and executed by the CPU 0234. Also, the program of the client computer according to this flow is stored in the storage unit 0245 of the client computer 0110, read into the RAM 0242, and executed by the CPU 0243.

[0056] First, at S0701, the CPU0226 creates an inspection job. The inspection job is a unit of a record that holds information related to inspection, such as a reference image, the number of inspection sheets, and inspection settings. The inspection job also includes information indicating whether the inspection target is double-sided or single-sided. Note that when indicating double-sided, the subsequent processing is performed on each of the double-sided images, and when indicating single-sided, it is performed on the single-sided image. Next, proceed to S0702, and the CPU0226 starts reading the reference image. At this time, the inspection unit I / F0231 notifies the inspection device I / F0215 to start reading the reference image. Then, the CPU0216 notifies the imaging unit 0218 to prepare for reading the reference image, and when the preparation is completed, it notifies the CPU0226 of that fact via the inspection device I / F0215 and the inspection unit I / F0231. Then, the inspection unit I / F0231 receives the image printed by the printing device 0101 and scanned by the CIS0315 and CIS0316 from the inspection device I / F0215. Note that when the inspection target is single-sided, it receives (acquires) the image scanned by the CIS0315 and CIS0316, and in S703 and later, only uses the image of the printed side of the scanned image.

[0057] Next, proceed to S0703, and the CPU0226 creates a reference image. When the reference image is created only from the image of scanning one printed material, it is the scanned image received at S702. When the reference image is created by synthesizing a plurality of images, it receives a plurality of scanned images at S702 and creates a reference image by synthesizing the plurality of images. Next, proceed to S0704, and the CPU0226 displays the reference image created at S0703 on the display unit 0245.

[0058] Next, it proceeds to S0705. In S0706 - S0708, the display unit 0245 accepts the setting of the inspection area desired by the user via the buttons included in the menu bar 0602 or the inspection parameter setting unit 0604. In S0706, the display unit 0245 accepts the selection of the inspection criteria by the user via the inspection parameter setting unit 0604. Next, in S0707, the display unit 0245 selects the inspection level to be applied to the inspection criteria selected in S0706 via the inspection parameter setting unit 0604. Note that after setting the inspection level for the inspection criteria, the flow may proceed in the order in which the user selects the inspection criteria, and the order is not limited.

[0059] Next, it proceeds to S0708. The display unit 0245 accepts the selection of rectangle or ellipse in the menu bar 0602 and then accepts the drawing of the inspection area by the user. Next, in S0709, the display unit 0245 displays the reference image including the drawn inspection area on the inspection setting screen 0601.

[0060] Next, it proceeds to S0710. If the color of the inspection parameter is to be changed, it proceeds to S0711. In S0711, the display unit 0245 changes the color of the frame of the inspection area to which the corresponding inspection criteria are applied. Then it proceeds to S0712, and S0705 - S0712 are repeated until all inspection areas are drawn and the color for the inspection areas is determined. Even if the color of the inspection parameter is not changed in S0710, it also proceeds to S0712 and the processing can proceed in the same way as in the above case.

[0061] Note that in this embodiment, the flow is described as changing the color of the inspection area frame after drawing the area. However, the flow may also proceed in the order of changing the color corresponding to the inspection criteria first and then drawing the inspection area frame to which the inspection criteria are applied. That is, the timing and order of drawing the inspection area and changing the color of the inspection area frame are not limited.

[0062] Next, at S0713, when the display unit 0245 receives an instruction from the user to confirm the overlap between inspection areas via the inspection standard confirmation button 0603, the process proceeds to S0714. At S0714, the CPU 0226 confirms the inspection level applied to the target pixel. At S0715, if the inspection level is determined to be "excluded", the process proceeds to S0716, where the inspection level "excluded" is set for the pixel and the process proceeds to S0722. At S0715, if the inspection level is not determined to be "excluded", the process proceeds to S0719. At S0719, if the inspection level is determined to be "important", the process proceeds to S0720, where the inspection level "important" is set for the pixel and the process proceeds to S0722. At S0719, if the inspection level is not determined to be "important", the process proceeds to S0721, where the inspection level "standard" is applied to the pixel and the process proceeds to S0722.

[0063] Thereafter, until the inspection level is applied to all pixels, S0714 to S0722 are repeated. Next, at S0723, based on the inspection levels of the respective pixels applied up to S0722, the display unit 0245 displays an image (corresponding to FIG. 6(c)) in which the overlap between the inspection areas is filled in and expressed. FIG. 6(c) is a screen showing the inspection level specified based on the priority for the overlapping area. At S0724, when the display unit 0245 receives an instruction from the user to stop the confirmation of the overlap between the inspection areas via the inspection standard confirmation button 0603, the process proceeds to S0725. At S0725, the display unit 0245 displays a reference image (corresponding to FIG. 6(b)) with the inspection area frame drawn and proceeds to S0726. FIG. 6(b) is a screen showing the frames of a plurality of inspection areas. At S0724, if an instruction to stop the confirmation of the overlap between the inspection areas from the user is not received, the process directly proceeds to S0726.

[0064] Next, in S0726, when the setting of all inspection parameters is completed, the display unit 0245 accepts the completion of the user's inspection parameter setting via the completion button 0606. Next, it proceeds to S0727, where the inspection parameters are set in the reference image and stored in the RAM 0227 so that they can be used for inspection. If, in S0726, the display unit 0245 does not accept the completion of the user's inspection parameter setting via the completion button 0606, it returns to S0705 and repeats the process until the setting of the inspection parameters is completed.

[0065] In S0713, if the display unit 0245 does not receive an instruction from the user to confirm the overlap between inspection areas via the inspection reference confirmation button 0603, it proceeds to S0726, and the flow can be terminated in the same manner as described above thereafter.

[0066] Next, the operation of the inspection apparatus 0108 when performing an inspection by applying the inspection settings set according to the above procedure will be described.

[0067] First, at S0801, CPU0226 starts reading the image to be inspected. At this time, the inspection unit I / F0231 notifies the inspection device I / F0215 of the start of reading the image to be inspected. Then, CPU0216 notifies the imaging unit 0218 to prepare for reading the image to be inspected, and when the preparation is completed, it notifies CPU0226 of this fact via the inspection device I / F0215 and the inspection unit I / F0231. At S0802, the client computer 0110 transmits PDF data to the information processing device 0109 via the NW I / F0240 and the NW I / F0237. Further, CPU0234 transmits the PDF data to the printing device 0101 via the NW I / F0238, the NW I / F0207, the video I / F0233, and the video I / F0206. CPU0201 prints this PDF data. Then, when passing through the paper conveyance path 0317, the CISs 0315 and 0316 scan the printed image. CPU0226 receives the scanned image from the inspection unit 0106 via the inspection device I / F0215 and the inspection unit I / F0231. Note that the PDF data may be imported into the information processing device 0109 in advance, and in S0702, CPU0234 may read it from the storage unit 0236. Also, the PDF data may be stored in the storage unit 0205 of the printing device 0101, and CPU0201 may read it from the storage unit 0205. That is, it is only necessary that the PDF data is printed by the printing device 0101, and its form is not limited.

[0068] Next, proceeding to S0803, the CPU 0226 reads out the reference image created in S0703 from the storage unit 0228 and compares it with the inspection target image received in S0802. The CPU 0226 compares the positional relationship between the paper and the printed image in the reference image with the positional relationship between the paper and the printed image in the inspection target image received in S0802. The comparison of the positional relationship is calculated, for example, by the values of the affine transformation of the feature points of the image extracted by detecting the four corners of the paper and the edges of the printed image. When, in the inspection target image, the position of the printed image with respect to the paper is deviated more than the allowable value of the preset positional deviation, it proceeds to S0814. In S0814, the CPU 0226 notifies the CPU 0216 that the inspection result is NG via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and the inspection device I / F 0215. Then, the CPU 0216 notifies the CPU 0221 that the inspection result is NG via the accessory I / Fs 0214 and 0220. And the CPU 0221 instructs the paper discharge unit 0223 to discharge the paper to the top tray 0320 and ends the flow.

[0069] In S0803, when the deviation of the printed image with respect to the paper in the inspection target image is within the range of the allowable value of the positional deviation, it proceeds to S0804. In S0804, the pixels of the inspection target image are inspected one by one starting from the inspection. In S0805, the CPU 0226 refers to the inspection settings set in S0727 and checks whether the inspection criterion "exclusion" is set for the pixel. If the inspection criterion "exclusion" is set, the inspection is not performed on the pixel and it proceeds to S8711.

[0070] If the inspection criterion "exclusion" is not set for the pixel, it proceeds to S0808. In S0808, if the inspection criterion "important" is set, it proceeds to S0809. In S0809, the CPU 0226 performs an inspection on the pixel using the inspection criterion "important" and proceeds to S0811. In S0808, if the inspection criterion "important" is not set, it proceeds to S0810. In S0810, the CPU 0226 performs an inspection on the pixel using the inspection criterion "standard" and proceeds to S0711.

[0071] In S0811, if the inspection has not been completed for all pixels, return to S0804 and perform the inspection until the inspection is completed for all pixels. When the inspection is completed for all pixels, proceed to S0816 and check whether the inspection result notification from the inspection unit I / F0231 to the inspection device I / F0215 can be made in time. This is a measure provided because if the instruction to switch the paper discharge destination between the main tray 0324 and the top tray 0320 of the large-capacity stacker is not issued within a certain time, the paper will be conveyed and the switching will not be in time. If the inspection result cannot be notified to the inspection device I / F0215 in S0816, proceed to S0814, and the inspection unit I / F0231 instructs the inspection device I / F0215 to discharge the paper to the top tray 0320. If the inspection result can be notified in S0816, proceed to S0812, and the CPU0226 checks whether there are pixels with an NG inspection result in S0807, 0809, and 0810. If there are pixels with an NG inspection result, proceed to S0814 and end the flow in the same way as in the case of subsequent position deviation NG. If there are no pixels with an NG inspection result in S0812, proceed to S0813 and proceed to S0815 while instructing to discharge the paper to the main tray 0324. Thereafter, repeat S0801 to S0815 until all the images to be inspected are inspected, and end the flow.

[0072] Note that in this embodiment, a form in which the position deviation inspection is performed first and then the circular defect and streak defect inspections are performed has been described. However, parallel processing may be performed, or the circular defect and streak defect inspections may be performed first, and the form is not limited.

[0073] In addition, in this embodiment, an example in which the printing device 0101 and the inspection device 0108 are separate devices has been described. However, means corresponding to the inspection device may be provided in the printing device.

[0074] According to the above procedure, according to this embodiment, even when the inspection areas overlap in the inspection device, the user can easily grasp the inspection criteria applied to each pixel. As a result, it becomes easy for the user to apply the desired inspection criteria to the desired inspection object, and the inspection required by the user can be realized without misoperation.

[0075] (Other Embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by executing the following process. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus for setting an inspection level for determining the quality of an image of an inspection surface of a printed matter based on a comparison between an imaging image obtained by imaging the inspection surface of the printed matter and a reference image, comprising: setting means for setting a plurality of inspection regions having different inspection levels with respect to the reference image; and specifying means for specifying the inspection level of the overlapping region based on a predetermined priority order when there is an overlapping region with respect to the plurality of inspection regions; An information processing apparatus, characterized by comprising display control means for displaying the specified inspection level of the overlapping region.

2. acquisition means for acquiring an imaging image obtained by imaging an inspection surface of a printed matter; judgment means for judging the quality of the inspection surface of the printed matter based on the acquired imaging image, the reference image, and the set inspection level, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when there is an overlapping region with respect to the plurality of inspection regions, the determination means makes a determination using the specified inspection level of the overlapping region.

3. receiving means for receiving an instruction for display switching; The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein when the instruction for display switching is given, the display control means switches the display from a screen displaying the specified inspection level of the overlapping region to a screen displaying frames of the plurality of inspection regions.

4. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the priority order increases as the inspection level becomes higher.

5. The setting means further sets an inspection exclusion region, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the inspection exclusion region has the highest priority order.

6. A control method for an information processing apparatus for setting an inspection level for determining the quality of an image of an inspection surface of a printed matter based on a comparison between an imaging image obtained by imaging the inspection surface of the printed matter and a reference image, comprising: a setting step of setting a plurality of inspection regions having different inspection levels with respect to the reference image; a specifying step of specifying the inspection level of the overlapping region based on a predetermined priority order when there is an overlapping region with respect to the plurality of inspection regions; A control method for an information processing apparatus, characterized by comprising a display control step of displaying the specified inspection level of the overlapping region.

7. an acquisition step of acquiring an imaging image obtained by imaging an inspection surface of a printed matter; A determination step of determining the quality of the inspection surface of the printed matter based on the acquired captured image, the reference image, and the set inspection level. The control method of the information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, in the determination step, when there is an overlapping area for the plurality of inspection areas, the determination is made using the specified inspection level of the overlapping area.

8. A reception step of receiving an instruction for display switching. The control method of the information processing apparatus according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein when the instruction for display switching is given, the display is switched from a screen displaying the specified inspection level of the overlapping area to a screen displaying the frames of the plurality of inspection areas.

9. The control method of the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the priority increases as the inspection level becomes higher.

10. In the setting step, when an inspection exclusion area is set, the inspection exclusion area has the highest priority of 1 in the control method of the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. A computer-readable program for causing a computer to function as the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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