Inspection device, inspection system, and control method and program of inspection device

Abstract

To solve a problem that, when a target of a secondary inspection is presented to an operator on the basis of a result of primary inspection, conventionally, a page of the target of the secondary inspection is selected and the operator is notified of the page, and therefore, the operator has to determine whether the page being the target of the secondary inspection is accepted only by visual evaluation, which takes much time for the secondary inspection and causes variations in determination results.SOLUTION: An inspection device that performs inspection on a printed matter acquires a scan image generated by reading the printed matter, sets an inspection level for determining acceptance in a primary inspection of the printed matter, compares the scan image and a reference image, and performs inspection on the printed matter on the basis of the inspection level. A display part is caused to display a screen indicating an inspection result of the primary inspection. At this time, the screen includes an inspection result of the printed matter at the set inspection level, an object associated with the inspection result and indicating that it is a target of inputting a result of a secondary inspection, and an acceptance inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter is accepted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus, an inspection system, a control method for an inspection apparatus, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inspection (product inspection) to confirm whether a printed matter is correctly printed has been performed manually. In recent years, however, as a post-processing of a printing machine, an inspection apparatus that automatically inspects printed matters printed by the printing machine has been used. In such an inspection apparatus, an inspection level is set in advance, and based on the inspection level, it is determined whether an image obtained by reading a printed matter is normal (OK) or not normal (NG). This is called a primary inspection (primary product inspection). Further, for the purpose of sampling inspection of qualified products determined to be normal and reinspection of unqualified products determined not to be normal, visual inspection by an operator is performed. This is called a secondary inspection (secondary product inspection).

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a method of scoring for each page during product inspection and presenting to an operator, as the target of secondary inspection, those with low scores among the pages determined to be qualified. Further, since too many targets for secondary inspection would impose a burden on the operator, it is described that the number and ratio of targets for secondary inspection can be specified by the operator.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 selects the locations to be subject to the secondary inspection among the pages determined to be qualified based on the inspection target information regarding the target of the manual secondary inspection set in advance by the user and notifies the operator. Therefore, the operator has to determine whether the pages subject to the secondary inspection are qualified only by visual evaluation, which takes a long time for the secondary inspection. In addition, there is a problem that the determination results of the secondary inspection vary.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the above-described problems of the prior art.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to enable confirmation of the inspection items to be subject to the secondary inspection and the inspection levels at which the inspection results regarding the inspection items are determined to be normal on the screen for displaying the results of the primary inspection. Accordingly, the present invention provides a technique capable of reducing the time required for the secondary inspection and the variation in the determination results.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, an inspection apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, An inspection apparatus for inspecting a printed matter, acquisition means for acquiring a scan image generated by reading the printed matter; setting means for setting an inspection level for determining pass or fail in the primary inspection of the printed matter; inspection means for comparing the scan image with a reference image and inspecting the printed matter based on the inspection level; control means for causing a display unit to display a screen showing the inspection result of the primary inspection by the inspection means, and the screen includes the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means, an object indicating that the inspection result is a target for inputting the result of the secondary inspection associated with the inspection result, and a pass inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter becomes qualified.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, compared with the secondary inspection that relies only on visual evaluation, it is possible to reduce the time required for the secondary inspection and reduce the variation in the determination results in the secondary inspection.

[0010] 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

[0011] The accompanying 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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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] 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 to 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 referred to as a multifunction printer, a multi-function peripheral, or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral).

[0013] [Embodiment 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an inspection system including the inspection apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0014] This inspection system includes an image forming apparatus 100, an inspection apparatus 110 built in the image forming apparatus 100, 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.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 100 performs printing based on various input data, such as images and documents sent from the client PC 130 or the print server 140, and outputs printed materials. Note that, in Embodiment 1, the image forming apparatus 100 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and any printing apparatus that performs printing on a recording medium may be used. For example, an apparatus that performs printing on metal may also be used.

[0016] The inspection device 110 inspects whether there are defects in the printed matter sequentially conveyed from the image forming device 100. Here, a defect refers to something that degrades the quality of the printed matter. For example, it includes stains caused by the attachment of color materials to unintended locations during printing, and color bleeding caused by insufficient attachment of color materials to intended locations.

[0017] Furthermore, in variable printing including one-dimensional codes such as character strings and barcodes, and two-dimensional barcodes, the inspection device 110 inspects the variable region portion. For example, it performs a data readability inspection to check whether a character string or barcode is readable, and a data verification inspection to compare the read result of the character string or barcode with the correct data. That is, the inspection device 110 performs a printed image inspection to detect defects in the pattern portion of the printed matter, and a data inspection including a data readability inspection and a data verification inspection. Note that it is not necessarily required for the inspection device 110 to have an inspection processing unit that performs the printed image inspection, the data readability inspection, and the data verification inspection inside. For example, an information processing device (not shown) such as an inspection PC communicably connected to the inspection device 110 may be configured to perform such inspections. Also, in Embodiment 1, it is described that the inspection device 110 built into the image forming device 100 performs the inspection process, but it is not limited thereto. For example, an inspection PC specialized in performing inspection processes may be connected via a communication unit to an inspection device mainly for imaging, and the inspection PC that receives the image captured by the inspection device may execute the inspection process based on the inspection settings received by the inspection PC.

[0018] The finisher 120 receives the printed matter inspected by the inspection device 110, switches the paper discharge destination based on the inspection result of the inspection device 110, and discharges it after performing post-processing (such as binding and stapling) as necessary.

[0019] The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to a client PC 130 and a print server 140 via a network 150, and is further connected to an inspection apparatus 110 and a finisher 120 via a communication cable. The inspection apparatus 110 is also connected to the finisher 120 via a communication cable in addition to the image forming apparatus 100. Embodiment 1 will be described as an example using an in-line inspection machine that consistently performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge, but it is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] The controller 200 receives images and documents via the network 150 and converts the received images and documents into print data. The printer unit 210 generates a printed matter by printing an image or a document on a recording sheet (paper, sheet) based on the print data. The user interface (UI) unit 220 performs screen display and receives instructions such as selection of paper information for the image forming apparatus 100 from an operator. The image forming apparatus 100 includes the above-described controller 200, printer unit 210, and UI unit 220. When the controller 200 inputs an image or a document converted into print data from the print server 140, the process of converting the image or the document by the controller 200 into print data becomes unnecessary.

[0022] Next, the configuration of the controller 200 will be described. 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 an expansion area for the programs executed by the CPU 202 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 (Raster Image Processing) processing for converting an image or document data received from the network 150 into print data. Note that in the first embodiment, the RIP processing does not necessarily have to be performed by the image processing unit 205, and for example, a configuration in which the RIP processing is performed by an information processing device such as a print server 140 communicably connected to the image forming apparatus 100 may be adopted. The engine I / F (interface) unit 206 transmits the print data to the printer unit 210. The communication I / F unit 207 communicates with the inspection device 110 and the finisher 120. The internal bus (system bus) 208 connects the CPU 202 and the above-described respective units.

[0023] Images and documents created on the client PC 130 on the network 150 or the print server 140 are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network (for example, Local Area Network) as PDL data. Note that a print job such as an image or a document may be transmitted to an information processing device (not shown) via the network and managed by the information processing device. Then, the print job may be transmitted from the information processing device to the image forming apparatus 100 through the network 150, and the image forming apparatus 100 may perform a process of printing on a sheet.

[0024] The PDL data thus transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 is stored in the RAM 203 via the network I / F unit 201. Also, a print instruction by the operator via the UI unit 220 is stored in the RAM 203 through the internal bus 208. The print instruction by the operator includes, for example, selection of a paper type.

[0025] The image processing unit 205 acquires the PDL data stored in the RAM 203 and performs image processing for converting it into print data. The image processing for converting into print data includes, for example, a process of performing rasterization on the PDL data to convert it into multi-value bitmap data and then performing screen processing or the like to convert it into binary bitmap data. The binary bitmap data obtained by the image processing unit 205 is transmitted to the printer unit 210 via the engine I / F unit 206.

[0026] In Embodiment 1, the printer unit 210 is a printer engine that forms an image by an electrophotographic method. The printer unit 210 prints an image on a sheet (paper) using a coloring material with the received binary bitmap data. The CPU 202 issues an instruction to the printer unit 210 based on a print instruction by an operator stored in the RAM 203. For example, when there is an instruction to print on coated paper from the operator, the CPU 202 issues an instruction to the printer unit 210 to feed 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-described PDL data to printing on paper by the CPU 202, a full-color toner image is formed on the paper.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1.

[0028] The inspection control unit 300 controls the overall inspection apparatus 110 and the inspection process for determining 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 is a UI unit for the operator to set the inspection apparatus 110 and display inspection results and the like to the operator. Here, the settings of the inspection apparatus 110 made by the operator include inspection items for determining what types of defects to inspect when inspecting the printed matter. These inspection items include, for example, as the shape of the defect, specifications such as round-shaped defects (dots) and linear defects (streaks). The inspection apparatus 110 includes the above-described inspection control unit 300, image reading unit 310, and UI unit 320. In the first embodiment, the UI unit 320 includes a display unit for displaying a screen and a display control unit for controlling the screen to be displayed on the display unit. Also, the settings of the inspection apparatus 110 and the display of inspection results performed by the UI unit 320 may be configured to receive display and instructions from external devices such as the UI unit 220 of the above-described image forming apparatus 100, an inspection PC (not shown), and an information processing apparatus (not shown). Further, the UI unit 320 may have a touch panel function.

[0029] Next, the inspection control unit 300 will be described. The communication I / F unit 301 transmits and receives data between the image forming apparatus 100, finisher 120, and inserter 160. The CPU 302 controls the entire inspection apparatus 110. The RAM 303 functions as a deployment area for the programs executed by the CPU 302 and a work area when the CPU 302 executes 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. Also, the correct CSV file described later is stored in the ROM 304. The inspection processing unit 305 inspects whether there are defects in the printed matter. The internal bus 306 connects the CPU 302 and the above-described units.

[0030] Next, an overview of the printed image inspection performed by the inspection apparatus 110 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 (read image) of the inspection target. This scanned image of the inspection target is stored in the RAM 303. Subsequently, the inspection device 110 compares the reference image stored in the RAM 303 in advance as a correct image with the scanned image of the inspection target by the inspection processing unit 305, and acquires a difference value. Specifically, feature points are extracted from each of the reference image and the scanned image, and alignment between the reference image and the scanned image is performed based on the extracted feature points. If the difference between the pixel value (luminance value) of the pixel to be inspected in the aligned scanned image and the pixel value (luminance value) of the pixel to be compared in the reference image is equal to or less than the threshold value, the inspection processing unit 305 determines that the pixel to be inspected is qualified. Note that the threshold value is different for each inspection level described later. Therefore, this threshold value becomes smaller as the inspection level becomes higher (larger) (the inspection becomes stricter), for example.

[0032] When the inspection of all the pixels of the pixel to be inspected is completed, it is determined whether the total value of the pixels determined to be unqualified is equal to or less than the pass threshold value, and it is determined whether the scanned image is normal. Here, if the total value of the pixels determined to be unqualified is equal to or less than the pass threshold value, the inspection processing unit 305 determines that the scanned image is normal. On the other hand, if the total value of the pixels determined to be unqualified exceeds the pass threshold value, the inspection processing unit 305 determines that the scanned image is not normal. In this case, this pass threshold value becomes smaller as the inspection level becomes higher (larger), for example.

[0033] The result of the inspection performed in this way is stored in the RAM 303. For example, information on whether there is a defect in the printed matter, the type of detected defect (dots or streaks), and the position information of the defect when displayed on the UI unit 320 are stored.

[0034] If it is determined that the scanned image is not normal, the inspection processing unit 305 performs additional processing on the scanned image that has been inspected. In this additional processing, while changing the inspection level to a level that is more likely to pass (lowering the inspection level), the inspection is performed until the scanned image is determined to pass. That is, the inspection level at which the scanned image is determined to pass is determined as the pass inspection level. The pass inspection level in this case is represented by, for example, the pass inspection level 806 (levels 5, 6) corresponding to the primary inspection result 805 where the inspection result in FIG. 8(a) described later is NG.

[0035] As a method of performing the additional processing, there is a method of holding the alignment information when initially aligning the reference image and the scanned image, extracting the difference in pixel values (luminance values) again, and determining the pass or fail of the pixel to be inspected by determining with a threshold value corresponding to the new inspection level. The method of calculating the threshold value in this pass / fail determination is not limited to the additional inspection processing. For example, the difference in pixel values (luminance values) extracted initially may be saved, and while reading it out, it may be determined whether the pixel to be inspected passes by determining with a threshold value corresponding to the new inspection level. Also, a method of calculating the difference in pixel values (luminance values) by image processing and determining the threshold value may be used. After the inspection of all pixels is thus completed, it is determined whether the scanned image is normal based on the total value of the pixels determined to be non - compliant and the pass threshold value.

[0036] When there are multiple defective parts on one page, the inspection level is set for each defect to determine pass or fail. The additional process is repeated while changing (lowering) the inspection level until the pass inspection level at which all the scanned images or defective parts on the page are determined to be normal is determined. At that time, it may be carried out while changing the inspection level one level at a time, or it may be carried out for a plurality of inspection levels at once. However, so as not to degrade the performance of the inspection apparatus 110, this additional process is carried out in the background. If there is no impact on performance, it may be possible to determine whether the scanned image is normal at a plurality of (all) inspection levels from the beginning and obtain the pass inspection level at which the scanned image is determined to be normal. Not limited to the above method, in addition, in view of processing costs, memory costs, etc., the additional process may be carried out in the optimal method for the inspection apparatus 110. The pass inspection level determined by the additional process is stored in the RAM 303.

[0037] After completion of the above-described inspection of the printed image, the inspection apparatus 110 instructs the UI unit 320 to display the inspection results stored in the RAM 303 by the CPU 302. By displaying the inspection results on the UI unit 320, the operator can easily recognize the inspection results.

[0038] Also, when a printed matter with a defect occurs, or when printed matters with defects occur continuously in a certain quantity, the inspection apparatus 110 transmits the above information to the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication I / F unit 301 by the CPU 302.

[0039] The information from the inspection apparatus 110 indicating that a printed matter with a defect has occurred 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 the above information, the CPU 202 instructs the printer unit 210 to stop printing. The image forming apparatus 100 stops the printing operation when the printer unit 210 is instructed to stop printing.

[0040] Furthermore, based on the inspection results stored in the RAM 303 by the CPU 302, the inspection apparatus 110 also transmits information to the finisher 120 via the communication I / F unit 301. The information transmitted to the finisher 120 is information indicating whether there is a defect in the printed matter. The finisher 120 uses the received information to discharge non-defective printed matter to the normal paper discharge tray, and discharges defective printed matter to an escape tray different from the normal paper discharge tray.

[0041] Next, the overall flow from the registration operation of the reference image before the start of inspection in the inspection apparatus 110 through the primary inspection to the execution of the secondary inspection will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 4.

[0042] The primary inspection is an inspection that reads the printed matter after printing and automatically determines whether the printed matter is a qualified product or a non-qualified product using a preset inspection level. The secondary inspection is an inspection in which an operator visually determines whether the printed matter is a qualified product or a non-qualified product for the purpose of extracting qualified products or reinspecting non-qualified products.

[0043] Here, an example will be described in which the presentation of the pass inspection level for facilitating the secondary inspection, which is a feature of the first embodiment, is performed in the primary inspection.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the inspection process by the inspection apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment. The processes shown in this flowchart are realized by the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 304 into the RAM 303 and reading and executing the expanded program code.

[0045] First, in S401, the CPU 302 registers a reference image that serves as the correct image for inspection. At this time, the inspection device 110 waits in the reference image reading mode and executes a printing job for reference image registration from the client PC 130. As a result, printing is executed by the image forming device 100 based on the printing job, and the printed matter is conveyed. Then, when the inspection device 110 detects the conveyance of the printed matter, it scans the printed matter with the image reading unit 310 and saves the scanned image as a reference image in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. In the first embodiment, the reference image is registered by scanning it with the image reading unit 310, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a method of receiving image data that has been RIP-processed by the print server 140 or the image processing unit 205 of the image forming device 100 and registering it as a reference image may also be used.

[0046] Next, proceeding to S402, the CPU 302 receives inspection settings from the operator and saves various inspection setting values such as the inspection area and inspection level in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. The inspection settings will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 6.

[0047] Next, proceeding to S403, when the CPU 302 receives an inspection printing job from the client PC 130, printing is executed by the image forming device 100 based on the inspection printing job, and the printed matter is conveyed. Then, when it detects the conveyance of the printed matter, it scans the printed matter with the image reading unit 310, saves the scanned image in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110, and performs a primary inspection. At this time, the CPU 302 reads out the saved scanned image and the reference image registered in S401 from the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110 and performs a printed image inspection using the inspection setting values set in S402. After that, the CPU 302 saves the inspection result in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Further, in the printed image inspection, the CPU 302 also performs a determination of the pass inspection level by executing the above-described additional processing, and saves the determination result in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110.

[0048] Next, it proceeds to S404, where the CPU 302 receives the result of the secondary inspection from the operator and stores it in the RAM 303 of the inspection apparatus 110. The details of S404 in Embodiment 1 will be described later. With this, the processing of this flowchart is completed.

[0049] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a job management screen 500 displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1.

[0050] The job management screen 500 is displayed when the inspection apparatus 110 is started up, or when an application is started by an operator operation from 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 processing.

[0051] The button 501 is a button for closing the display of the job management screen 500. The new button 502 is a button for newly creating an inspection job and instructs the 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 using this copy of the inspection job, it is possible to copy the reference image and inspection settings and perform a new inspection job. When the copy button 503 is pressed, the inspection setting screen shown in FIG. 6 is transitioned to.

[0052] The delete button 504 deletes the inspection job selected in the inspection job list 508. Here, it is also possible to delete a plurality of inspection jobs at once by selecting a plurality of inspection jobs and pressing the delete button 504.

[0053] The inspection setting button 505 is a button for performing the inspection setting of an inspection job for which the registration of the reference image has been completed. The inspection button 506 instructs the execution of an inspection job for which the registration of the reference image and the inspection setting have been completed. The font registration button 507 is used for registering a glyph font.

[0054] Next, the inspection settings will be described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection setting screen 600 for performing inspection settings displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 shows a case where the inspection area setting button 621 for a printed image is selected, and it is an example of a setting screen for inspecting a printed image. When the inspection setting button 505 is pressed, basically the same screen as in FIG. 6 is displayed, except that the display contents such as the area 605 and the settings 631 and 632 in the screen of FIG. 6 are different.

[0056] The reference image change button 601 is a button used when changing the reference image. The button 602 is a selection button for the inspection area and is pressed by the operator when he / she wants to select an already set area. The button 603 is a deletion button for the inspection area and is pressed by the operator when he / she wants to delete the selected inspection area. The button 604 is a button for rotating the image displayed in the area 605.

[0057] The area 605 is a display area for displaying the inspection area of the loaded reference image and the like. When there are a plurality of sheets to be loaded, the image to be displayed is switched by the button 610. Also, the front and back of the loaded sheet can be switched by the button 610. Specifically, each time the right arrow button 610 is pressed, the display switches in the order of the front of the first sheet, the back of the first sheet, the front of the second sheet, and the back of the second sheet. The OK button 611 is an OK button for saving the settings of the inspection setting screen 600 and transitioning to the job management screen 500 shown in FIG. 5. Also, by pressing the OK button 611, it may be possible to transition 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 inspection setting screen 600 and transitioning to the job management screen 500 in FIG. 5.

[0058] The inspection area setting button 621 for the printed image is a button that is pressed by the operator when newly setting the area for printed image inspection. After pressing this button 621, the operator can set the inspection area for the reference image displayed in area 605. Area 606 shows an example of the setting of the printed image inspection area.

[0059] The area setting button 622 for data inspection is pressed by the operator when newly setting the area for character inspection or barcode inspection. After pressing button 622, the operator sets the target inspection area on the reference image displayed in area 605. The character area 607 in area 605 shows an example of the setting of the character inspection area. Also, area 608 in area 605 shows an example of the setting of the barcode inspection area. Further, area 609 shows an example of the setting of the sequential number inspection area such as page numbers.

[0060] Note that in FIG. 6, area 606, character area 607, area 608, and area 609 are shown with the same black dotted line frame, but they may be displayed in a distinguishable manner such that each area is an area where different processing is performed. For example, the frame colors of the areas where different processing is performed may be displayed in different colors or as broken lines from each other. Also, the operator may be able to select the display colors of those frames.

[0061] The area setting button 623 for sequential number inspection is pressed by the operator when newly setting the area for sequential number inspection. After pressing button 623, the operator sets a sequential number inspection area as shown in area 609, for example, in the reference image displayed in area 605. Sequential number inspection performs data inspection based on a predetermined rule. The predetermined rule is the start number, end number, increment value, etc.

[0062] The misregistration inspection setting 631 is a misregistration inspection setting that sets the allowable deviation amount from the reference image of the printing position. In FIG. 6, an example specified by the operator is shown such that misregistrations where the misregistration amounts in the vertical and horizontal directions are 2 mm or more are detected. That is, the value specified by the operator here corresponds to the threshold value in misregistration detection. When a deviation equal to or greater than the threshold value set here is detected, it is determined that the inspection is NG.

[0063] The setting 632 for the selected area is a group of UIs for setting the currently selected area in area 605. The setting 633 for the application range sets the application range of the selected area. When nothing is selected, the selected inspection area is arranged only on the page currently displayed in area 605. When "the same surface as the current page" is selected, the selected inspection area is arranged on the pages of the same surface 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.

[0064] The inspection level setting 634 is a setting of the inspection level for inspection items such as round-shaped defects (dots) and linear defects (streaks), and the inspection level is set for each item. The inspection level is a parameter that is set step by step to determine from what size a defect is to be determined for each feature of the detected defect. For example, there are 9 levels from level 1 to level 9, and levels 9 can detect thinner and smaller-sized defects than level 1. That is, levels 9 detect defects more strictly than level 1. Also, for example, different inspection levels can be set for each inspection item, such as level 5 for dots and level 4 for streaks. In the inspection area setting 634 in FIG. 6, an example set by the operator is shown where the inspection level setting for defects (dots) is level 7 and the inspection level setting for defects (streaks) is level 7.

[0065] Next, the inspection screen will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0066] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection screen 1000 displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 in Embodiment 1.

[0067] This inspection screen 1000 shows the state after the first inspection is executed. Button 1001 is a button for closing the display of the inspection screen 1000. When button 1001 is pressed, the job management screen 500 shown in FIG. 5 is transitioned to.

[0068] The inspection start button 1002 is a button for instructing the start of reading an inspection image. After the inspection is executed, this inspection start button 1002 is grayed out. Area 1003 is an area for displaying an image of the loaded inspection sheet (printed matter), and nothing is displayed before the inspection starts. Area 1004 is an area where the number of inspection sheets is displayed, and all are 0 before the inspection starts. The total number of inspected sheets is displayed in the inspection sheet number area 1005. The total number of sheets with an OK (qualified) inspection result and the OK rate are displayed in the OK number area 1006. The total number of sheets with an NG (unqualified) inspection result and the NG rate are displayed in the NG number area 1007. That is, the sum of the numbers in the OK number area 1006 and the NG number area 1007 is the value in the inspection sheet number area 1005. Also, the sum of the OK rate and the NG rate is 100%. In the example of FIG. 10, the total number of inspected sheets is 4, 2 of which have an OK inspection result and 2 have an NG inspection result.

[0069] The inspection results for each side of the inspection sheet are displayed in area 1008. Details of the inspection results displayed in area 1008 will be described later with reference to FIG. 8.

[0070] The staple button 1009 is a button for saving the inspection results and ending the inspection. When the close button 1009 is pressed, the job management screen 500 shown in FIG. 5 is transitioned to. The secondary inspection button 1010 is a button for inputting the results of the secondary inspection. When the secondary inspection button 1010 is pressed, the input screen for the secondary inspection results shown in FIG. 9(b) is transitioned to. This will be described in detail in Embodiment 2 later.

[0071] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the inspection setting process of S404 in FIG. 4. Hereinafter, the secondary inspection will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7, the inspection result details screen of FIG. 8, and the input screen of the secondary inspection result of FIG. 9.

[0072] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the details of the inspection result of the area 1008 in FIG. 10 displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1.

[0073] FIG. 8(a) shows the details of the inspection result displayed in the area 1008 of the inspection screen 1000 after the execution of the primary inspection in S403. Here, the result when inspected by four-part output by a print job for printing one page on one side of the paper will be described as an example. The inspection settings for the printed image inspection are assumed to have all inspection levels set to level 7, and the inspection results are marked as OK if they pass and NG if they fail.

[0074] Item 801 indicates the number of the output part, that is, the number of copies output. Item 802 indicates the number of pages (sheets). Item 803 indicates the determination result of the primary inspection in S403, that is, the result of the primary inspection. Item 804 indicates the inspection result of the dot in the printed image inspection. This item 804 includes the primary inspection result 805, the pass inspection level 806, and the secondary inspection result 807. In item 804, an input button (object) is displayed in association with the secondary inspection result 807 only when the primary inspection result 805 is NG.

[0075] Item 808 indicates the inspection result of the streak in the printed image inspection, and the configuration of item 808 is the same as that of item 804. However, in item 808, since the subsequent inspection results are all OK for all four parts, no input button (object) is displayed for the secondary inspection result.

[0076] Item 809 shows the inspection results of data inspection. Although the results of data inspection are only displayed as OK or NG, the read string, barcode results, and correct data information may also be further displayed. When the determination result of the primary inspection in Item 803 is NG, a confirmation button for instructing the confirmation of the inspection result image is displayed in Item 810. When the confirmation button in Item 810 is pressed, the scanned image determined as NG (NG detailed screen (not shown)) is displayed. On this NG detailed screen, the scanned image marked at the defective location determined as spot or streak, its enlarged view, and the detailed information of the defect are displayed. In addition, when there are inspection items other than spot, streak, and data, columns corresponding to each inspection item shall be added in the same manner.

[0077] The inspection result 811 is the inspection result of the first part of the job. In this example, since all inspection items are OK, the primary inspection result of Item 803 is OK. Also, in the pass inspection level 806, the level of the inspection setting is 7.

[0078] The inspection result 812 is the inspection result of the second part of the job. Since the determination of spot in the primary inspection is NG, the primary inspection result of Item 803 is NG. And as a result of the above-mentioned additional process, the pass inspection level 806 when spot is determined to be qualified is level 5.

[0079] The inspection result 813 is the inspection result of the third part of the job. Since the determination of spot in the primary inspection is NG, the primary inspection result of Item 803 is NG. And as a result of the above-mentioned additional process, the pass inspection level 806 when spot is determined to be qualified is level 6.

[0080] When performing the secondary inspection on the inspection results 812 and 813 in this way, the operator presses the input button for the secondary inspection result 807 corresponding to each inspection result. Thereby, the input screen 900 shown in FIG. 9(a) is displayed on the UI unit 320. Thereby, the operator can perform the secondary inspection and input whether the inspection result is OK or not. The input screen 900 is a screen for inputting the determination result of the secondary inspection, and has an OK button 901, an NG button 902, and a cancel button 903. The operator can input whether the result of the secondary inspection is qualified (OK) or unqualified (NG) via this input screen 900.

[0081] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for secondary inspection results displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 1.

[0082] Next, a description will be given with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7 and FIG. 9. Note that the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is realized by the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 304 into the RAM 303 and reading out and executing the expanded program code.

[0083] In S701, the CPU 302 receives a notification of the operator's UI operation from the UI unit 320. Next, in S702, the CPU 302 determines whether or not the input button for the secondary inspection result 807 in FIG. 8(a) has been pressed. If the input button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S703. If it is an operation other than the input button, this process ends. If it is determined in S702 that the input button has been pressed, in S703, the CPU 302 displays the input screen 900 shown in FIG. 9(a), for example, on the UI unit 320.

[0084] Then, when the CPU 302 receives an input from the operator via the input screen 900 at S703, it stores the information based on the input in the RAM 303. For example, when the NG button 902 in FIG. 9(a) is pressed for the NG determination result of the pouch of the inspection result 812, NG is stored as the secondary inspection result of the pouch of the inspection result 812. Also, when the OK button 901 in FIG. 9(a) is pressed for the NG determination result of the pouch of the inspection result 813, OK is stored as the secondary inspection result of the pouch of the inspection result 813. When the cancel button 903 is pressed, the inspection result is not stored. An example of this case is shown in FIG. 8(b).

[0085] Then, it proceeds to S704 and the CPU 302 displays the updated result screen 1000 on the UI unit 320. The update of the display of the result screen 1000 will be described by taking FIG. 8(b) as an example.

[0086] FIG. 8(b) extracts only items 801 to 804 of FIG. 8(a) and shows the state where the secondary inspection results of the inspection results 812 and 813 are input as described above. When the secondary inspection result of the pouch of the inspection result 812 is NG, NG is displayed instead of the input button in the secondary inspection result 807 of the inspection result 812. When the secondary inspection result of the pouch of the inspection result 813 is OK, OK is displayed instead of the input button in the secondary inspection result 807 of the inspection result 813. Further, in the inspection result 813, since the inspection result of all inspection items becomes OK because the inspection result of the pouch is OK, OK instead of NG is displayed in the primary inspection result of item 803. When the display of the primary inspection result changes in this way, coloring or shading may be done to make it easier to recognize the change.

[0087] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8(c), a secondary inspection result column 814 for displaying the secondary inspection result may be prepared. The above is the update of the display of the area 1008.

[0088] To explain the above example in more detail, the second single-sided page corresponding to the inspection result 812 is determined to pass the first inspection by lowering the inspection level to level 5. However, in the second inspection, the operator determines that the second single-sided page fails. On the other hand, the third single-sided page corresponding to the inspection result 813 is determined to pass the first inspection by lowering the inspection level to level 6. And in the second inspection, the operator determines that the third single-sided page corresponds to passing. That is, when the inspection level is determined to pass at level 6, the operator has determined that the printed matter corresponds to passing.

[0089] In this case, furthermore, since the first inspection result of the inspection result 813 has changed from NG to OK, the display in the area 1004 of FIG. 10 is also updated. That is, the OK count area 1006 changes from 2 sheets (50%) to 3 sheets (75%), and the NG count area 1007 changes from 2 sheets (50%) to 1 sheet (25%). The update of the display of the above result screen 1000 is performed every time the second inspection result 807 is input.

[0090] The input method of the second inspection result 807 has been described using the input screen 900 in FIG. 9(a). By displaying a pull-down button instead of an input button and allowing the user to select OK or NG, the correction of the second inspection result 807 becomes easier. By preparing a blank in addition to OK and NG in the selection options of the pull-down button, it is also possible to cancel the input of the second inspection result 807. Still, regarding the second inspection result 807 input using the input screen 900, it is also possible to return to S702 for correction. In that case, in S702, it is determined whether an input button or a correction button (not shown) has been pressed.

[0091] After the input of the second inspection result is completed, when the operator presses the button 1001 or the close button 1009 in FIG. 10, the inspection screen 1000 transitions to the job management screen 500. At this time, the CPU 302 determines whether all the second inspection results have been input. If not all have been input, it may warn via a UI (not shown) that the second inspection result has not been input.

[0092] According to Embodiment 1 as described above, for items that fail the primary inspection, an operator can determine pass or fail based on a pass inspection level that results in a pass, and can show it as the result of the secondary inspection. Thereby, it becomes possible to reduce the time required for the operator's visual secondary inspection and the variation in judgment in the secondary inspection.

[0093] [Embodiment 2] In the above-described Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the result of the secondary inspection by the operator is input for each inspection item that fails the primary inspection. However, when the operator determines that the initially set inspection level is too strict, there is a need to collectively change to qualified those that have reached a certain inspection level. Also, printed materials that fail even the secondary inspection need to be reprinted, and it is desirable that the inspection level at that time be the inspection level that passed the secondary inspection.

[0094] Therefore, in Embodiment 2, considering the above needs, a method of further reducing the operator's workload will be described by collectively inputting the secondary inspection results and, when reprinting, performing an inspection at the inspection level that passed the secondary inspection. 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.

[0095] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the secondary inspection process of S404 by the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 2. The process shown in this flowchart is realized when the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110 expands the program code stored in the ROM 304 into the RAM 303 and reads and executes the program code expanded in the RAM 303.

[0096] Regarding the input of the secondary inspection results, it will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 11, the input screens for the secondary inspection results in FIGS. 9(b) and (c), and the recovery print screen of FIG. 12.

[0097] In S1101, the CPU 302 receives a notification of the operator's UI operation from the UI unit 320. Next, it proceeds to S1102 where the CPU 302 determines whether the secondary inspection button 1010 on the inspection result screen 1000 in FIG. 10 has been pressed. If it is determined that the secondary inspection button 1010 has been pressed, it proceeds to S1103. If it is determined that the operation is other than an input button, this process ends.

[0098] In S1103, the CPU 302 displays the input screen 904 in FIG. 9(b) on the UI unit 320. This input screen 904 is a screen for inputting the inspection level for the secondary inspection. The button 906 is a pull-down button, and when the button 906 is pressed, levels (numerical values) that can be set as the inspection level can be selected. The area 905 is an area where the inspection level selected by the button 906 is displayed. Initially, the inspection level (level 7 in the embodiment) set in the inspection level setting 634 in FIG. 6 is displayed. The input screen 904 further includes an OK button 907 and a cancel button 908. Although only one area 905 and one button 906 are displayed, there may be a plurality of them so that the inspection level can be set for each of the spots and streaks of the inspection items, for example. Here, it will be described as being common for a plurality of inspection items. In FIG. 9(b), level 6, which is one level lower than the initial inspection level 7, is set.

[0099] In S1103, the CPU 302 accepts the inspection level input on the input screen 904 and stores the result in the RAM 303. Here, different from Embodiment 1, the pass inspection level allowed by the secondary inspection result is the inspection level input on the input screen 904 and is stored in the RAM 303. At this time, for example, after the operator executes the primary inspection of S403 at inspection level 7, the printed matter that fails is visually confirmed by the secondary inspection. And if the pass inspection level 806 when judged as passing in the secondary inspection is level 6, the operator selects level 6 on the input screen 904. In this way, when the OK button 907 is pressed in the state where level 6 is selected, level 6 is set and stored as the pass inspection level allowed as the secondary inspection result. When the cancel button 908 is pressed, the storage of the pass inspection level allowed as the secondary inspection result is not performed.

[0100] Note that the method of inputting the inspection level is not limited to the pull-down method. For example, as in the input screen 909 of FIG. 9(c), the arbitrarily set inspection levels (level 1 to level 9) may be displayed and set with numeric buttons.

[0101] Also, as options for the inspection level, an inspection level stricter than (greater than) the inspection level set in the primary inspection and an inspection level far from the inspection level set in the primary inspection may not be set. Also, when such non-settable inspection levels are selected, a warning may be issued or the like. Also, according to the skill of the operator logged in as the worker, the selectable levels may be restricted or the like.

[0102] Then it proceeds to S1104, and the CPU 302 displays the updated result screen 1000 on the UI unit 320. At this time, the CPU 302 reads out the inspection results after the primary inspection, the acceptable pass inspection level (level 6) as the secondary inspection results saved in S1103. Then, it saves all the secondary inspection results of all items where the pass inspection level 806 after the primary inspection is level 6 as OK. On the other hand, it saves all the secondary inspection results of all items where the pass inspection level 806 is lower than level 6 as NG. After that, similar to S704, it updates the display of the secondary inspection results 807, the item 803 indicating the primary inspection results, the OK quantity area 1006, and the NG quantity area 1007. Here, after updating the inspection results in a batch, as described in Embodiment 1, it may be configured to perform additional input of individual inspection results.

[0103] Next, it proceeds to S1105, and the CPU 302 determines whether to execute recovery printing. Recovery printing is to reprint printed materials where the result of the secondary inspection is NG. The CPU 302 displays on the UI unit 320 the confirmation screen 1200 shown in Fig. 12(a) for confirming whether to execute recovery printing. When the Yes button 1201 is pressed (YES in S1105), it proceeds to S1106. When the No button 1202 is pressed (NO in S1105), the processing shown in this flowchart ends.

[0104] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for instructing an inspection by recovery printing displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 according to Embodiment 2.

[0105] In S1106, the CPU 302 displays on the UI unit 320 the setting screen 1203 in Fig. 12(b) for receiving the setting of the inspection level during recovery printing, and saves the inspection level selected on this setting screen 1203 in the RAM 303. Item 1204 is the same inspection level as the primary inspection, item 1205 is the same inspection level as the secondary inspection results, and item 1206 is an item for selecting the manual setting of the inspection level. Items 1204 to 1206 are radio buttons, and only one of them can be selected.

[0106] When the OK button 1207 is pressed with item 1204 selected, in the previous example, level 7, which is the same as the primary inspection level, is saved as the inspection level during recovery printing, and the inspection screen 1000 is transitioned to.

[0107] Also, when the OK button 1207 is pressed with item 1205 selected, in the previous example, level 6, which is the level during secondary inspection, is saved as the inspection level during recovery printing, and the inspection screen 1000 is transitioned to.

[0108] Also, when the OK button 1207 is pressed with item 1206 selected, the setting screen 1203 is closed, and the inspection setting screen 600 in FIG. 6 is transitioned to. When the inspection level is set on the inspection setting screen 600 and the OK button 611 is pressed, the inspection level during recovery printing is set, and the job management screen 500 is transitioned to. The cancel button 1208 is a button that abandons the settings on this setting screen 1203 and transitions to the original screen.

[0109] In S1107, when the CPU 302 determines that the inspection start button 1002 on the inspection screen 1000 or the inspection button 506 on the job management screen has been pressed, it executes recovery printing and recovery printing at the inspection level saved in S1106. The above is the description of the flowchart in FIG. 11.

[0110] In addition, after recovery printing, the operator needs to return the printed matter subjected to recovery printing to the correct position among a large number of printed matters. However, when printing multiple copies of a single-page printed matter, even if the printed matter subjected to recovery printing is returned to the beginning or the end of the printed matters that passed the first inspection, there is no problem with the final product. However, if this is done, there is an issue that the page numbers output in the inspection result log will deviate from the page numbers of the final product. Therefore, when outputting the inspection result log, the results of the pages that failed the first inspection are moved to the beginning or the end of the log, and by aligning the order of the final product with the order of the log, it becomes possible to further reduce the workload of the operator. Note that whether to move the results of the pages that failed the first inspection to the beginning or the end can be set in advance by the operator. The above is the explanation regarding the method of inputting the secondary inspection results and recovery printing in Embodiment 2.

[0111] As described above, according to Embodiment 2, it becomes possible to input the secondary inspection results collectively and further perform the reprinting with fewer steps. Thereby, in addition to the time required for the secondary inspection and the variations in judgment in the secondary inspection, it becomes possible to significantly reduce the workload of the operator.

[0112] In the above embodiment, for example, when there is a large deviation between the inspection level set on the inspection setting screen 600 in FIG. 6 and the inspection level determined to be qualified in the additional process, as shown in FIG. 8(b), it may be possible to prevent the result of the first inspection from being corrected from NG to OK. Alternatively, it may be possible to warn that the result of the first inspection cannot be corrected. Alternatively, depending on the ability or qualification of the operator, etc., it may be possible to display whether the result of the first inspection can be corrected.

[0113] Also, in the case of a 1-to-N job, since it is conceivable to move the images determined to be NG in the secondary inspection to the end (or the beginning), it is desirable to make it possible to change the number of pages in the inspection log.

[0114] In addition, on the summary page of the inspection log, it is desirable to display not only the number of pages determined to be OK after the secondary inspection but also the number of pages determined to be OK in the primary inspection.

[0115] (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 having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0116] This specification and the drawings disclose the following inspection apparatus, its control method, inspection system, and program.

[0117] [Item 1] An inspection apparatus for inspecting printed matter, comprising: acquisition means for acquiring a scan image generated by reading the printed matter; setting means for setting an inspection level for determining pass / fail in the primary inspection of the printed matter; inspection means for comparing the scan image with a reference image and inspecting the printed matter based on the inspection level; control means for causing a display unit to display a screen showing the inspection result of the primary inspection by the inspection means; and the screen includes an object indicating that it is a target for inputting the result of the secondary inspection associated with the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means, and a pass inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter is considered to pass. The inspection apparatus is characterized by this.

[0118] [Item 2] The object for inputting the result of the secondary inspection is the printed matter for which the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means is determined to be non-conforming. The inspection apparatus according to Item 1 is characterized by this.

[0119] [Item 3] The inspection device according to item 2, wherein the object is displayed in association with the inspection result of the printed matter that has failed at the inspection level set by the setting means.

[0120] [Item 4] The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the control means further causes the display unit to display a screen for inputting the result of the secondary inspection when the object is instructed.

[0121] [Item 5] The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the setting means can further set an inspection area and inspection items to be inspected in the primary inspection, and can set the inspection level for each inspection item.

[0122] [Item 6] The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein when the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means is unqualified, the inspection of the printed matter is repeatedly executed while changing the inspection level until the inspection result of the printed matter becomes qualified, and the inspection level when the inspection result of the printed matter becomes qualified is set as the qualified inspection level.

[0123] [Item 7] The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the secondary inspection is a visual inspection of the printed matter by an operator.

[0124] [Item 8] The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the control means further causes the display unit to display a screen in which the inspection result by the inspection means is updated based on the result of the secondary inspection.

[0125] [Item 9] The update of the inspection results includes collectively updating the inspection items that are determined to be unqualified at the inspection level set by the setting means and determined to be qualified at the pass inspection level. The inspection apparatus according to item 8, characterized in that.

[0126] [Item 10] When the printed matter determined to be qualified at the pass inspection level is determined to be qualified in the secondary inspection, the inspection apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 9, further comprising means for making the inspection level in the secondary inspection settable based on the pass inspection level.

[0127] [Item 11] The inspection apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 10, further comprising means for instructing reprinting of an image determined to be unqualified by the secondary inspection and reinspecting the printed matter printed by the reprinting.

[0128] [Item 12] The inspection apparatus according to item 11, further comprising means for setting the inspection level in the reinspection.

[0129] [Item 13] The inspection apparatus according to item 12, characterized in that the inspection level in the reinspection is any one of the inspection level set by the setting means, the pass inspection level, or an arbitrary inspection level.

[0130] [Item 14] When outputting a log of the inspection results by the inspection means, the inspection apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 13, characterized in that the inspection results of the printed matter that fails the inspection at the inspection level set by the setting means are moved to the head or the end of the log.

[0131] [Item 15] A control method for controlling an inspection apparatus for inspecting a printed matter, comprising: An acquisition step in which an acquisition means acquires a scan image generated by reading the printed matter; A setting step in which a setting means sets an inspection level for determining pass / fail in a primary inspection of the printed matter; An inspection step in which an inspection means compares the scanned image with a reference image and inspects the printed matter based on the inspection level; A control step in which a control means causes a display unit to display a screen showing the inspection result of the primary inspection by the inspection step, and has: The screen includes an inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set in the setting step, an object indicating that it is a target for inputting a result of a secondary inspection associated with the inspection result, and a pass inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter is a pass. A control method characterized by including.

[0132] [Item 16] An inspection apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 14; A printing apparatus that performs printing based on a job, and has: An inspection system, wherein the inspection apparatus inspects a printed matter printed by the printing apparatus.

[0133] [Item 17] A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the inspection apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 14.

[0134] 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, the following claims are appended to disclose the scope of the present invention.

Explanation of Signs

[0135] 100... Image forming apparatus, 110... Inspection apparatus, 120... Finisher, 130... Client PC, 140... Print server, 300... Inspection control unit, 302... CPU (inspection apparatus), 305... Inspection processing unit, 310... Image reading unit, 320... UI unit, 600... Inspection setting screen, 900... Input screen for determination result of secondary inspection, 1000... Inspection screen

Claims

1. An inspection device for inspecting printed matter, comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring a scan image generated by reading the printed matter; a setting means for setting an inspection level for determining pass / fail in the primary inspection of the printed matter; an inspection means for comparing the scan image with a reference image and inspecting the printed matter based on the inspection level; a control means for causing a display unit to display a screen showing the inspection result of the primary inspection by the inspection means, wherein the screen includes an object indicating that it is a target for inputting the result of a secondary inspection associated with the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means, and a pass inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter is considered to have passed. The inspection device is characterized by this.

2. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the target for inputting the result of the secondary inspection is a printed matter for which the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means is determined to have failed.

3. The inspection device according to claim 2, wherein the object is displayed in association with the inspection result of the printed matter that has failed at the inspection level set by the setting means.

4. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the control means further causes the display unit to display a screen for inputting the result of the secondary inspection when the object is instructed.

5. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the setting means can further set an inspection area and inspection items to be inspected in the primary inspection, and can set the inspection level for each inspection item.

6. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein when the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set by the setting means is determined to have failed, the inspection means repeatedly performs the inspection of the printed matter while changing the inspection level until the inspection result of the printed matter is considered to have passed, and sets the inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter is considered to have passed as the pass inspection level.

7. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the secondary inspection is a visual inspection of the printed matter by an operator.

8. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the control means further causes the display unit to display a screen in which the inspection result by the inspection means is updated based on the result of the secondary inspection.

9. The update of the inspection results includes collectively updating the inspection items that are determined to be unqualified at the inspection level set by the setting means and determined to be qualified at the qualified inspection level. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that.

10. When the printed matter determined to be qualified at the qualified inspection level is determined to be qualified in the secondary inspection, means for making it possible to set the inspection level in the secondary inspection based on the qualified inspection level is further provided. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

11. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for instructing reprinting of an image determined to be unqualified by the secondary inspection and reinspecting the printed matter printed by the reprinting.

12. The inspection apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising means for setting the inspection level in the reinspection.

13. The inspection level in the reinspection is any one of the inspection level set by the setting means, the qualified inspection level, or an arbitrary inspection level. The inspection apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that.

14. When outputting a log of the inspection results by the inspection means, the inspection results of the printed matter that failed the inspection at the inspection level set by the setting means are moved to the top or the end of the log. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

15. A control method for controlling an inspection apparatus for inspecting a printed matter, comprising: An acquisition step in which an acquisition means acquires a scan image generated by reading the printed matter; A setting step in which a setting means sets an inspection level for determining pass or fail in a primary inspection of the printed matter; An inspection step in which an inspection means compares the scan image with a reference image and inspects the printed matter based on the inspection level; A control step in which a control means causes a display unit to display a screen showing the inspection result of the primary inspection by the inspection step, and has: The screen includes the inspection result of the printed matter at the inspection level set in the setting step, an object indicating that it is a target for inputting the result of a secondary inspection associated with the inspection result, and a qualified inspection level at which the inspection result of the printed matter is qualified. A control method characterized by that.

16. An inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and A printing apparatus that performs printing based on a job, and has: The inspection system is characterized in that the inspection device inspects a printed matter printed by the printing device.

17. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the control method according to claim 15.

Images