Inspection apparatus, inspection method, program, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of reducing a work load of an operator by suppressing inspection overlooking and excessive detection in standard inspection by reflecting appropriate inspection level on a sheet used in printing.SOLUTION: An inspection apparatus according to the invention includes inspection means configured to read, by reading means, a sheet on which an image is formed, the sheet being conveyed from image forming means, and detect an abnormality of the formed image, where the inspection means detects an abnormality at inspection level determined based on sheet management information in which the inspection level is associated with sheet information and the sheet information of the sheet on which the image is formed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Inspection devices are known that read printed materials produced by a printing device and inspect their quality, and are capable of detecting image defects such as stains and missing prints.

[0003] These inspections involve comparing the printed matter with an image that is registered as a reference image and is free of defects. After registering the reference image, the operator configures the inspection settings, which set the areas and thresholds for detecting defects in the reference image for the actual print job. After completing the inspection settings, the actual print is scanned and compared with the registered reference image to execute the actual print job to detect defects.

[0004] One method of setting inspection settings involves visually inspecting each reference image read by an inspection device and setting the inspection level for each inspection item. While this method is expected to allow for detailed inspection settings, it places a heavy burden on operators who handle a variety of print jobs every day. Patent Document 1 proposes a technology for setting inspections called standard inspection, which aims to reduce this inspection setting burden. This inspection method inspects the entire surface of each sheet at a predetermined standard inspection level for all reference images read by the inspection device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-155532 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] While standard inspection is an effective method for reducing the operator's inspection setup burden, printing systems produce a wide variety of output. For example, in catalogs featuring luxury products designed to impress users, the quality of the printed images is crucial. On the other hand, in flyers featuring daily sales items delivered by supermarkets, high image quality is not required for the printed product images; price information is more important. In these circumstances, if all printed materials are inspected at the same inspection level, a discrepancy will arise between the quality required for the output and the set quality inspection level. For example, if the default inspection level is lower than the inspection level required for the print quality of the catalog, the inspection system may miss an inspection failure that should have been detected, resulting in rework from a later process than the printing process. Furthermore, if the default inspection level is significantly higher than the print quality required for the flyer, excessive quality inspection will be performed on the printed material. In this case, the inspection system may determine that the inspection is unsuccessful even though there is no actual quality problem. This results in frequent overdetection, which increases the workload of the operator having to visually check the sheet each time.In addition, standard inspection performs the same inspection level on all sheets, even for printed materials that use multiple types of paper, which can result in overdetection or overdetection depending on the sheet.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a technology that can reduce the workload of operators by applying an appropriate inspection level to the paper used in printing, thereby reducing missed inspections and overdetection in standard inspections. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The inspection device of the present invention comprises an inspection means that reads paper on which an image is formed and that is transported from an image forming means using a reading means and detects abnormalities in the formed image, and the inspection means detects abnormalities using paper management information that links an inspection level to paper information and an inspection level that is determined based on the paper information of the paper on which the image is formed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, in the standard inspection, an inspection level is applied according to the paper type used, so that an appropriate quality inspection can be performed according to the deliverable. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of a system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paper type and inspection level relationship DB according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a paper registration UI of the print control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a paper DB of the print control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A is a flowchart showing how an inspection level is determined in a print control device / image forming device, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing how an inspection level is determined in an inspection device. [Figure 9] 10 shows an example of a paper registration UI on the image forming apparatus side according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A to 10D are flowcharts for synchronizing paper information between a print control device and an image forming device. [Figure 11] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing job property screens of a print control device and an information processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12]10 is a flowchart illustrating reference image registration and inspection job submission in a print control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 shows an example of an inspection setting UI for an inspection device according to an embodiment, and an example of a table relating to inspection NG types and corresponding adjustments. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart of an inspection job execution operation of the inspection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a reference image registration flowchart for an inspection apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the inspection device during print inspection according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 shows an example of an inspection status screen of an inspection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart for determining whether or not an inspection level change is required for an inspection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 shows an example of an inspection level setting screen according to an embodiment. [Figure 20] 10 is an example of a table storing inspection items and inspection levels for each reference image in an embodiment. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining whether to apply an inspection level assigned to an existing sheet based on a similar name in an embodiment. [Figure 22] (a) A flowchart of an inspection device that determines whether to perform a test print using only the paper when a high inspection level is set or when a paper is being used for the first time. (b) A flowchart of a print control device that determines whether to perform a test print using only the paper when a high inspection level is set or when a paper is being used for the first time. [Figure 23] 10 shows an example of a test print necessity confirmation screen in one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Example]

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0012] Unless otherwise specified, it goes without saying that the present invention can be applied to an inspection device consisting of a single device or multiple devices, as long as the functions of the present invention are realized. It also goes without saying that the present invention can be applied to an inspection device connected via a network such as a LAN or WAN, as long as the functions of the present invention are realized. In other words, the system configuration in which various terminals are connected, as described in the following embodiments, is just one example, and it goes without saying that there are various configuration examples depending on the application and purpose.

[0013] The configuration of the inspection system of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. The inspection system of this embodiment includes an information processing device 0110, a print control device 0109, an inspection device 0108, an image forming device 0101, and a cloud server 0111. Note that, although the image forming device 0101 of this embodiment will be described as being of an electrophotographic type, the image forming device of this embodiment may be of a different image forming type, such as an inkjet type or an offset type. The print control device 0109, sometimes called a DFE (Digital Front End), is a device that processes data to cause the image forming device 0101 to print.

[0014] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming apparatus 0101 and the inspection apparatus 0108 are described as separate devices. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention, and they may be integrated into a single device. For example, the inspection apparatus 0108 may be integrated into the image forming apparatus 0101 to form the image forming apparatus 0101. Furthermore, for example, the inspection unit 0106 of the image forming apparatus 0101 may be included in the inspection apparatus 0108, and may be a separate device from the image forming apparatus 0101, or may be integrated into the image forming apparatus 0101. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the front / back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 may be included in the inspection unit 0106 or the inspection apparatus 0108. Furthermore, the configuration of the print control apparatus 0109 may be included in the inspection apparatus 0108 or the image forming apparatus 0101.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 0101 is connected to a print control apparatus 0109 via a cable 0112. The print control apparatus 0109 is connected to an information processing apparatus 0110 and a cloud server 0111 via a network 0113.

[0016] The image forming apparatus 0101 includes a UI panel 0102, a paper feed deck 0103, and a paper feed deck 0104. An optional deck 0105 consisting of three paper feed decks is also connected to the image forming apparatus 0101. The image forming apparatus 0101 is, for example, an electrophotographic printing apparatus. The UI panel 0102 is, for example, a user interface equipped with a capacitive touch panel. The image forming apparatus 0101 also includes an inspection unit 0106, a large-capacity stacker 0107, and a front / back registration / color adjustment unit 0115. The inspection unit 0106 is connected to an inspection device 0108 via a cable 0114. The large-capacity stacker 0107 includes a main tray and a top tray, and the main tray can hold several thousand sheets of paper at a time.

[0017] The print control device 0109 includes a UI panel 0116. The UI panel 0116 is a user interface that includes, for example, a capacitive touch panel. A user operates the UI panel to issue instructions for paper generation and print job execution.

[0018] The inspection device 0108 includes a UI panel 0117. The UI panel 0117 is a user interface that includes, for example, a capacitive touch panel. A user operates the UI panel 0117 to perform operations related to the inspection. The cloud server 0111 manages examination information related to examinations, and in response to inquiries from other devices, transmits the examination information to the inquiry source.

[0019] A print job is generated by the information processing device 0110, transmitted to the print control device 0109 via the network 0113, and managed by the print control device 0109. A print job can also be generated on the print control device 0109. A print job that the print control device 0109 has received from the information processing device 0110 or generated by itself is transmitted from the print control device 0109 to the image forming device 0101 via the cable 0112, and the image forming device 0101 performs processing to print the job on paper. Note that a print job may also be generated and managed by the print control device 0109, transmitted to the image forming device 0101 via the network 0112, and managed by the image forming device 0101.

[0020] The information processing device 0110, print control device 0109, and inspection device 0108 may be connected to a cable 0112 to communicate with the image forming device 0101. The inspection device 0108 may also be connected to the print control device 0109, information processing device 0110, and cloud server 0111 via a network 0113. That is, the connection configuration of the image forming device 0101, print control device 0109, and information processing device 0110 shown in this embodiment is just an example, and it goes without saying that there are various other connection configurations besides that shown in this embodiment.

[0021] In addition, the image forming apparatus 0101 may be configured to be connected to a staple-capable finisher, a folding machine, a binding machine, etc. in addition to the inspection unit 0106, the large-capacity stacker 0107, and the front / back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 shown in FIG. 1.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 2, the control configuration of the image forming apparatus 0101, inspection apparatus 0108, large-capacity stacker 0107, print control apparatus 0109, front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115, information processing apparatus 0110, and cloud server 0111 of this embodiment will be described.

[0023] <Image forming device> The image forming apparatus 0101 includes a CPU 0201, a RAM 0202, a UI panel 0203, a paper feed deck I / F 0204, a memory unit 0205, a video I / F 0206, a NW I / F 0207, an accessory I / F 0208, an engine I / F 0209, a printer engine 0210, a paper feed deck 0211, and a system bus 0212.

[0024] A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 0201 controls and performs calculations on each unit in the image forming apparatus 0101 via a system bus 0212. The CPU 0201 controls and performs calculations on each unit by reading a program stored in a storage unit 0205 into a RAM (Random Access Memory) 0202 and executing the program.

[0025] The RAM 0202 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0201, and is used as a work area or other temporary data storage area for the CPU 0201. The storage unit 0205 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the image forming apparatus 0101 is operating.

[0026] The engine I / F 0209 controls communication with and control of the printer engine 0210 . The paper feed deck I / F 0204 controls and communicates with the paper feed deck 0211. The paper feed deck 0211 is a general term for the paper feed decks 0103 and 0104 and the optional deck 0105 as a hardware configuration.

[0027] The UI panel 0203 is a hardware configuration of the UI panel 0102, and is a user interface for performing overall operations of the image forming apparatus 0101. In this embodiment, the UI panel 0203 is equipped with a capacitive touch panel.

[0028] The network interface (hereinafter referred to as NW I / F) 0207 is connected to the NW I / F 0238 of the print control device 0109 via a cable 0213, and controls communication between the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101. In this example, the interfaces connected to the system buses 0212 and 0239 are directly connected to each other. The connection format between the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 may be a format in which the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 are connected via a network or the like, and is not limited to this format. The video I / F 0206 is connected to the video I / F 0233 via a video cable 0241, and controls communication of image data between the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101.

[0029] The connection interface between the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 may be a combination of the functions of the NW I / F 0238 and the video I / F 0233. The connection interface between the image forming device 0101 and the print control device 0109 may be a combination of the functions of the NW I / F 0207 and the video I / F 0206.

[0030] The accessory I / F 0208 is connected to the accessory I / F 0214, the accessory I / F 0220, and the accessory I / F 0254 via a cable 0225. That is, the image forming apparatus 0101 communicates with the inspection unit 0106, the large-capacity stacker 0107, and the front / back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 via the accessory I / Fs 0208, 0214, 0220, and 0254.

[0031] The image forming apparatus 0101 also prints images for registration adjustment and color correction based on instructions from the inspection apparatus 0108. Then, the image forming apparatus 0101 receives the degree of misalignment of the print position and color sent from the front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115, and adjusts its own print write position and color.

[0032] <Inspection unit> The inspection unit 0106 includes an accessory I / F 0214, an inspection device I / F 0215, a CPU 0216, a RAM 0217, an imaging unit 0218, a memory unit 0247, and a system bus 0219. The CPU 0216 reads a program stored in the memory unit 0247 into the RAM 0217 via the system bus 0219. The CPU 0216 then runs the program to control and perform calculations in each unit within the inspection unit 0106.

[0033] The RAM 0217 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0216, and is used as a work area or other temporary data storage area for the CPU 0216. The memory unit 0247 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the inspection unit 0106 is operating.

[0034] The inspection device I / F 0215 is connected to the inspection unit I / F 0231 via a cable 0260. That is, the inspection unit 0106 communicates with the inspection device 0108 via the inspection device I / F 0215 and the inspection unit I / F 0231.

[0035] The photographing unit 0218 has a photographing function equipped with, for example, a contact image sensor (hereinafter referred to as "CIS"), photographs the paper passing through the inspection unit, and transmits the photographed image to the inspection device 0108 via the inspection device I / F 0215. The CIS is an image sensor that integrates a sensor (light receiving element), a light source (LED), and a rod lens array (equal magnification imaging lens), and can get closer to the surface of the paper and read the image printed on the paper more compactly than a camera. Note that the CIS of the photographing unit 0218 is an example of a sensor, and other types of sensors such as a CCD image sensor may also be used, and the photographing method is not limited thereto.

[0036] There are two purposes for sending the captured image. One is to photograph the printed matter of the print job to be inspected, regardless of the inspection method, and send it to the inspection device 0108 for inspection. The other is to print and photograph one or more copies of the print job before the print job to be inspected in order to create a reference image, and send it to the inspection device 0108 as the reference image, when the inspection method is scan inspection. The inspection device 0108 stores the transmitted image in the memory unit 0228 as the reference image.

[0037] <Large capacity stacker> The large-capacity stacker 0107 includes an accessory I / F 0220, a CPU 0221, a RAM 0222, a paper discharge unit 0223, a storage unit 0248, and a system bus 0224. The CPU 0221 loads a program stored in the storage unit 0248 into the RAM 0222 via the system bus 0224. The CPU then runs the program to control and perform calculations in each unit within the large-capacity stacker 0107.

[0038] The RAM 0222 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0221, and is used as a work area for the CPU 0221 or as other temporary data storage areas.

[0039] The memory unit 0248 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the large-capacity stacker 0107 is in operation. The paper discharge unit 0223 monitors and controls the paper discharge operation to the main tray and the top tray, and the loading status of each of the main tray and the top tray.

[0040] <Inspection equipment> The inspection device 0108 includes a CPU 0226, a RAM 0227, a storage unit 0228, a PDL analysis unit 0229, an inspection unit I / F 0231, a display unit 0245, and a system bus 0230. The CPU 0226 reads a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 via the system bus 0230. The CPU 0226 then runs the program to control and perform calculations in each unit within the inspection device 0108.

[0041] The RAM 0227 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0226 and is used as a work area for the CPU 0226 or other temporary data storage area. The memory unit 0228 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the inspection device 0108 is operating. The PDL analysis unit 0229 reads PDL data, such as PDF, PostScript, or PCL, received from the information processing device 0110 or print control device 0109 and performs interpretation processing. The display unit 0245 is, for example, a liquid crystal display connected to the inspection device 0108, and accepts user input to the inspection device 0108 and displays the status of the inspection device 0108. The inspection device 0108 also instructs the image forming device 0101 to perform registration adjustment and color correction.

[0042] <Print control device> The print control device 0109 includes a CPU 0234 , a RAM 0235 , a storage unit 0236 , a network interface 0237 , a network interface 0238 , a video interface 0233 , a UI panel 0261 , and a system bus 0238 . The CPU 0234 loads the program stored in the storage unit 0236 into the RAM 0235 via the system bus 0239. The CPU 0234 then runs the program to control and calculate the various units in the print control device 0109.

[0043] The RAM 0235 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0234, and is used as a work area for the CPU 0234 or other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0236 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the information processing device is operating.

[0044] The NW I / F 0237 is connected via a network to a NW I / F 0240 of the information processing device 0110. The print control device 0109 communicates with the information processing device 0110 via the NW I / F 0237. The NW I / F 0238 is connected to the NW I / F 0207 of the image forming apparatus 0101 via a cable 0213. The print control apparatus 0109 communicates with the image forming apparatus 0101 via a NW I / F 0240.

[0045] The print control device 0109 also receives instructions for paper generation, print job execution, and the like from an operator via a UI panel 0261. Alternatively, the inspection device 0108 may include a network interface, and the print control device 0109 may communicate with the inspection device 0108 via the network interface 0237 and the network interface of the inspection device 0108. For example, consider a case where inspection is used as the inspection method and an RIP image used for printing by the image forming device 0101 is used as the reference image. In this case, the reference image may be transmitted to the inspection device 0108 via the inspection device interface 0215, or may be transmitted to the inspection device 0108 from the network interface of the inspection device 0108 via the network interfaces 0207 and 0237.

[0046] <Client computer> The information processing device 0110 functions as a client computer. The information processing device 0110 includes a network interface (NW) 0240 , a RAM 0242 , a CPU 0243 , a storage unit 0244 , and a system bus 0246 . The CPU 0243 loads the program stored in the storage unit 0244 into the RAM 0242 via the system bus 0246. The CPU 0243 then runs the program to control and perform calculations in each unit within the information processing device 0110.

[0047] The RAM 0242 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0243, and is used as a work area for the CPU 0243 or as other temporary data storage areas. The storage unit 0244 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the information processing device 0110 is operating.

[0048] <Paper / inspection management server> The cloud server 0111 functions as a paper / inspection management server. The cloud server 0111 includes a network interface (NW) 0249 , a CPU 0250 , a RAM 0251 , a storage unit 0252 , and a system bus 0253 . The CPU 0250 loads a program stored in the storage unit 0252 into the RAM 0251 via the system bus 0253. The CPU 0250 then runs the program to control and perform calculations in each unit within the cloud server 0111.

[0049] The RAM 0251 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0250, and is used as a work area or other temporary data storage area for the CPU 0250. The storage unit 0252 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory when the cloud server 0111 is operating.

[0050] <Front and back registration / color adjustment unit> The front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 includes an accessory I / F 0254, a CPU 0255, a RAM 0256, a storage unit 0257, a reading unit 0258, and a system bus 0259. Here, "front and back registration" refers to a registration process that aligns images formed on the front and back of paper. The CPU 0255 loads a program stored in the storage unit 0257 into the RAM 0256 via the system bus 0259. The CPU 0255 then runs the program to control and calculate each unit in the front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115.

[0051] The RAM 0256 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 0255, and is used as a work area for the CPU 0255 or as other temporary data storage areas.

[0052] The memory unit 0257 stores programs and also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during operation of the front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115. The reading unit 0258 reads registration correction marks and color adjustment image patches from the captured image sent from the imaging device provided in the front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115.

[0053] The CPU 0255 calculates the degree of misalignment of the printing position and the degree of misalignment of the color from the registration correction marks and the image patches for color adjustment acquired from the reading unit 0258, and sends information for correcting the printing position or color to the image forming apparatus 0101.

[0054] The internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 0101 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The image forming apparatus 0101 includes an inspection unit 0106, a large-capacity stacker 0107, and a front / back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 in addition to a main body that performs image formation.

[0055] The image forming apparatus 0101 accepts user input and displays printing and device status via a UI panel 0102. The paper feed decks 0103 and 0104 can store various types of paper. Each paper feed deck can separate only the topmost sheet of paper from the stack and transport it to a paper transport path 0305. The developing stations 0301-0304 form toner images using Y, M, C, and K color toners, respectively, to form color images. The toner images formed here undergo primary transfer onto an intermediate transfer belt 0306. The intermediate transfer belt 0306 rotates clockwise in the figure and transfers the toner image to paper transported from the paper transport path 0305 at a secondary transfer position 0307. The fixing unit 0308 is equipped with a pressure roller and a heating roller. As the paper passes between these rollers, the toner is melted and pressed onto the paper, fixing the toner image to the paper. The paper that has passed through the fixing unit 0308 is transported to 0312 via paper transport path 0309. If further fusing and pressing are required for fixing depending on the type of paper, after passing through the fixing unit 0308, it is transported to the second fixing unit 0310 via the upper paper transport path. After further fusing and pressing, the paper is transported to 0312 via paper transport path 0311. If the image formation mode is double-sided, the paper is transported to paper inversion path 0313, inverted by paper inversion path 0313, and then transported to double-sided transport path 0314, where the image on the second side is transferred at secondary transfer position 0307.

[0056] The inspection unit 0106 has CISs 0315 and 0316 arranged facing each other. CIS 0315 is a sensor for reading the top surface of the paper, and CIS 0316 is a sensor for reading the bottom surface of the paper. The inspection unit 0106 scans the paper using the CISs 0315 and 0316 when the paper transported on the paper transport path 0317 reaches a predetermined position. The scanned image is sent to the inspection device 0108 via the inspection device I / F 0215 and inspection unit I / F 0231. The CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 determines whether the received image contains any abnormalities and notifies the inspection unit 0106 of the determination result via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and inspection device I / F 0215 again. The CPU 0216 of the inspection device 0215 notifies the received determination result to the large-capacity stacker 0107 via the accessory I / Fs 0214 and 0220.

[0057] The front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 has CISs 0325 and 0326 arranged facing each other. CIS 0325 is a sensor for reading the top surface of the paper, and CIS 0326 is a sensor for reading the bottom surface of the paper. The front and back registration / color adjustment unit 0115 scans the paper using the CISs 0325 and 0326 when the paper transported along the paper transport path 0327 reaches a predetermined position. The unit 0115 then reads position information of registration marks for front and back registration correction and patch information from the scanned image and transmits this information to the image forming apparatus 0101 via the accessory I / F 0254. The CPU 0201 calculates correction values from the received information regarding the front and back registration misalignment and color misalignment, adjusts the print position and write position, and performs color correction processing.

[0058] The large-capacity stacker 0107 is a stacker capable of stacking a large amount of paper. The large-capacity stacker 0107 has a main tray 0324 as a tray for stacking paper. Paper that has passed through the inspection unit 0106 enters the large-capacity stacker 0107 via a paper transport path 0319. The paper travels from the paper transport path 0319 to a paper transport path 0322 and is then stacked on the main tray 0324. The large-capacity stacker 0107 also has a top tray 0320 as a paper output tray. The CPU 0221 ejects paper that has been detected as abnormal by the inspection device 0108 to the top tray 0320. When outputting to the top tray 0320, the paper is transported from the paper transport path 0319 to the top tray 0320 via a paper transport path 0321. The inverting unit 0323 inverts the paper. This inverting unit 0323 is used when stacking paper on the main tray 0324. To ensure that the orientation of the incoming paper is the same as the orientation of the paper when it is loaded onto the main tray 0324, the paper is inverted once by the inverting unit 0323. When transporting paper to the top tray 0320, the paper is discharged as is without being flipped when it is loaded, so the inverting unit 0323 does not perform the inverting operation.

[0059] The software configuration that operates on each piece of hardware in the inspection system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. <Print control device> The print control device 0109 operates on a network controller 0401, a UI controller 0402, a printer controller 0403, and a paper information controller 0404. These software modules are stored as programs in the storage unit 0236, and are implemented by the CPU 0234 by expanding the programs into the RAM 0235 and executing them. The network controller 0401 controls communications with other devices. The UI controller 0402 controls the content displayed on the UI panel 0116 and issues control instructions to other controllers based on received instructions. In response to an operation request from the image forming device 0101, the printer controller 0403 performs RIP processing of print jobs, submits jobs to the image forming device 0101, and transmits configuration information of the print control device 0109 to the image forming device 0101. The paper information controller 0404 generates paper based on paper generation instructions received from the operator via the UI panel 0116, and stores the paper in the storage unit 0236. Furthermore, if the paper information is updated, the information is sent to the image forming apparatus 0101 .

[0060] <Image forming device> The image forming apparatus 0101 operates on a network controller 0411, a UI controller 0412, a print controller 0413, and a paper information controller 0414. These software modules are stored as programs in the storage unit 0205, and are implemented by the CPU 0201 by loading the programs into the RAM 0202 and executing them. The network controller 0411 controls communications with other devices. The UI controller 0412 controls the content displayed on the UI panel 0203 and issues control instructions to other controllers based on received instructions. The print controller 0413 executes print jobs in response to operation requests from the print control device 0109. The paper information controller 0414 generates paper based on paper generation instructions received from the operator via the UI panel 0203, and saves the paper information in the storage unit 0205. Furthermore, if the paper information is updated, the information is sent to the print control device 0109.

[0061] <Inspection equipment> The inspection device 0108 operates on a network controller 0421, a UI controller 0422, an inspection information storage unit 0423, and an inspection controller 0424. These software modules are stored as programs in the storage unit 0228, and are implemented by the CPU 0226 by expanding the programs into the RAM 0227 and executing them. The network controller 0421 controls communications with other devices. The UI controller 0422 controls the content displayed on the display unit 0245 and issues control instructions to other controllers based on received instructions. The inspection information storage unit 0423 stores information related to inspections, such as settings required for inspections, reference images, and inspection results. The inspection controller 0424 controls the inspection settings received from the UI controller 0422, registers reference images, and compares the reference images with the inspection images, among other controls required for inspections.

[0062] <Information processing device> The information processing device 0110 operates on a network control unit 0431, a UI control unit 0432, and a job control unit 0433. These software modules are stored as programs in the storage unit 0244, and are implemented by the CPU 0243 by expanding the programs into the RAM 0242 and executing them. The network control unit 0431 controls communications with other devices. The UI control unit 0432 controls the content displayed on the UI panel 0261 of the print control device 0109 and issues control instructions to other control units based on accepted instructions. The job control unit 0433 displays job properties on the UI panel 0261 of the print control device 0109 via the UI control unit 0432 and instructs the print control device 0109 to execute the accepted job. The information displayed on the UI panel 0261 of the print control device 0109 may be displayed on a display device included in the information processing device 0110.

[0063] <Paper / inspection management server> A NW control unit 0441 and a paper / inspection information control unit 0442 operate on the cloud server 0111. These software modules are stored as programs in the storage unit 0252, and are implemented by the CPU 0250 by expanding the programs into the RAM 0251 and executing them. The NW control unit 0441 controls communications with other devices. The paper / inspection information control unit 0442 holds information about the inspection level for each paper type, and returns information about the inspection level corresponding to the paper type received via the NW control unit 0441 to the source of the inquiry.

[0064] <When paper is generated by the print control device, the paper type information is sent to the inspection device, and the inspection level is received and linked to the paper information> The relationship between paper type and inspection level will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Each table in Fig. 5 is a table relating to the inspection level for each paper type stored in the inspection device 0108. These tables are stored in the storage unit 0228, and the inspection control unit 0424 instructs the inspection information storage unit 0423 to acquire information from the tables.

[0065] The table 0501 stores default inspection level information that is applied when the inspection device 0108 executes a standard inspection. Table 0502 records values to be adjusted for the default inspection level stored in table 0501 for each paper type (surface property). For example, if the paper type (surface property) is recycled paper, the inspection level for the inspection item (stains (streaks)) is adjusted to inspection level 4 by calculating the standard inspection level of 5 in table 0501 and the value (-1) recorded in table 0502. Furthermore, because the adjustment value for the inspection item (stains (dots)) is 0, the inspection level after adjustment remains 5.

[0066] Table 0503 records adjustment values for the default inspection level stored for each paper type (basis weight) in table 0501. For example, when paper with a basis weight (351 to 400) is selected, the inspection levels for both the inspection item (stains (dots)) and the inspection item (stains (streaks)) are adjusted to inspection level 7 by calculating level 5 in table 0501 and (+2) recorded in table 0503. When paper is generated by the print control device 0109, the adjustment values for the paper type (surface properties) in table 0502 and the paper type (basis weight) in table 0503 are added or subtracted from the default inspection level value stored in table 0501 based on the paper type information.

[0067] FIG. 6 is an example of an input screen for accepting paper generation by the print control device 0109. The input screen 0601 is stored in the storage unit 0236, and the UI control unit 0402 displays it on the UI panel 0261 based on a paper generation instruction from the operator via the UI control unit 0402. The operator can edit each item by operating the UI panel 0261. The name of the paper is input in area 0602. Area 0603 is an area for selecting the surface properties of the paper. Areas 0605 to 0608 pre-display the inspection items (stains (dots)) and the inspection levels when applying the inspection items (stains (streaks)) to the front and back sides of this paper. The display of the inspection levels and how to apply them will be described later, but the displayed inspection levels can be edited on this input screen.

[0068] Fig. 7 is an example of a paper management table possessed by the print control device 0109. The paper management table 0701 is stored in the memory unit 0236, and when the OK button 0609 is operated on the input screen 0601 of Fig. 6, the paper information control unit 0404 records the contents displayed in areas 0602 to 0608 in the paper management table 0701. Six types of paper, 0001 to 0006, are registered and managed in the paper management table 0701 of Fig. 7 for each paper name entered in Fig. 6. This paper management table is an example of paper management information in the present invention.

[0069] The process of determining and saving an inspection level when paper is generated in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 8. The flowchart in Fig. 8(a) shows the process of determining and saving an inspection level when paper is generated in the print control device 0109 of this embodiment 1. The process described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 0234 of the print control device 0109 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0236 into the RAM 0235 and executing it. Below, the step numbers of each process included in the flowchart are indicated by numbers beginning with "S". The same applies to the subsequent flowcharts.

[0070] The flowchart of the print control device 0109 starts when the operator issues a paper registration instruction by operating the UI panel 0261. In S0801, the UI control unit 0402 obtains the input screen 0601 from the storage unit 0236 and displays it on the UI panel 0261. Then, the process proceeds to S0802.

[0071] When the operator operates the UI panel 0261 to perform an input operation, the paper information control unit 0404 records the input items in the RAM 0235 and proceeds to S0803. In S0803, the paper information control unit 0404 accesses the RAM 0235 and determines whether the received input is related to the paper type. If the received input is not related to the paper type (NO), the process proceeds to S0807. If the received input is related to the paper type (YES), the process proceeds to S0804.

[0072] In S0804, the paper information control unit 0404 requests the inspection device 0108 via the NW control unit 0401 to send an inspection level information request corresponding to the input paper type. Then, the process proceeds to S0805. In S0805, when the inspection level information is received from the inspection device 0108, the process proceeds to S0806. In S0806, the paper information control unit 0404 instructs the UI control unit 0402 to reflect the received inspection level information on the input screen 0601.

[0073] For example, when "recycled paper" is entered in area 0603, the inspection levels associated with this are "Level 5" and "Level 4" for the inspection item (stain points) and inspection item (stain (streaks)) for the front and back sides of the paper, respectively. The inspection levels are received from the inspection device 0108, and the respective inspection levels are displayed in areas 0605 to 0608 in FIG. 6. The inspection level information received from the inspection device 0108 is displayed, and the process proceeds to S0807.

[0074] When the operator operates the OK button 0609, the process proceeds to S0808. In S0808, the paper information control unit 0404 records the content displayed on the input screen 0601 in the paper management table 0701. In this example, the content displayed on the input screen 0601 is recorded as paper ID "0001." The process then ends.

[0075] The processing of the inspection device 0108 in this embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 8(b). The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 and executing it. The flowchart of the inspection device 0108 starts when the power of the inspection device 0108 is turned on.

[0076] When inspection level information is requested from the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0421, the inspection control unit 0424 proceeds from S0811 to S0812. In S0812, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses tables 0502 and 0503 stored in the inspection information storage unit 0423 to confirm the paper type (surface property) and paper type (basis weight) for which the inspection level is requested. If the corresponding paper type exists in table 0502 or table 0503, the inspection level is determined by adding the stored adjustment value and the default level value stored in table 0501.

[0077] For example, in the case of a paper type (surface property) of "recycled paper" and a paper type (basis weight) of "64 gsm," the paper type (surface property) of "recycled paper" exists in table 0502, but there is no corresponding item in table 0503 for the paper type (basis weight) of "64 gsm." In this case, the adjustment value stored in the paper type (surface property) of "recycled paper" is added to the default level value stored in table 0501, and the inspection levels for the inspection items (stains (dots)) and (stains (streaks)) are determined. Once the inspection levels are determined, the process proceeds to S0813. In S0813, the inspection control unit 0424 transmits the determined inspection level information to the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0421, and the process ends.

[0078] <When paper is created on the image forming device, the paper type information is sent to the inspection device, and the inspection level is received and linked to the paper information> 9 shows a setting screen for accepting paper generation in the image forming apparatus 0101. The setting screen 0901 is stored in the storage unit 0205, and is displayed on the UI panel 0203 by the UI control unit 0412 based on a paper generation instruction from the operator on the UI panel 0203. The operator can edit each item by operating the UI panel 0203. The name of the paper is input in area 0902. Area 0903 is an area for selecting the basis weight of the paper. Area 0904 is an area for selecting the surface properties of the paper. Areas 0905 to 0908 display the inspection item (stains (dots)) and the inspection level when applying the inspection item (stains (streaks)) to the front and back of this paper.

[0079] 7, the image forming device 0101 has a paper management table 0701, similar to the print control device 0109. The paper management table 0701 is stored in the storage unit 0205. The paper management table 0701 may be stored in the storage unit of the inspection unit 0106 or the inspection device 0108, either in duplicate or independently.

[0080] 8A. The image forming apparatus 0101, like the print control apparatus 0109, has a program for executing the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8A. The program for executing the processing of the flowchart of the image forming apparatus 0101 is stored in the storage unit 0205, and the CPU 0201 reads it into the RAM 0202 and executes it. The flowchart of the image forming apparatus 0101 starts when the operator operates the UI panel 0203 to issue a paper registration instruction. In S0801, the UI control unit 0412 obtains the setting screen 0901 from the storage unit 0205 and displays it on the UI panel 0203. The processing then proceeds to S0802. The subsequent processing is the same as that described for the print control apparatus 0109; the paper management table 0701 that records paper information is controlled by the paper information control unit 0414, and communication with the inspection apparatus 0108 is controlled by the NW control unit 0411. This processing has already been described, so it will not be repeated here.

[0081] Furthermore, when the inspection device 0108 receives a request for inspection level information from the image forming device 0101, it calculates the inspection level information from the paper type information and transmits it to the image forming device 0101. This process has already been explained in the processing flow of FIG. 8(b) when the print control device 0109 requests an inspection level, so it will not be repeated here.

[0082] For example, the inspection levels received from the inspection device 0108 are displayed in advance in areas 0905 to 0908 of the setting screen 0901. In this embodiment 1, when the operator operates the registration button 0909, the information is recorded in the paper management table 0701. In this example, the information displayed in the paper management table 0701 is recorded as paper ID "0002."

[0083] <Process for synchronizing paper information between the print control device and the image forming device> When the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 update their own paper information by adding, editing, deleting, etc., they notify each other of the details, thereby synchronizing the information recorded in the paper management table 0701. This process will be explained below.

[0084] 10A shows the processing of the print control device 0109 when synchronizing paper information between the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 in this embodiment 1. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0234 of the print control device 0109 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 0236 from the RAM 0235 and executing it.

[0085] The flowchart for the print control device 0109 starts when the print control device 0109 is powered on and is repeated until the power is turned off. When the paper management table 0701 is updated, in S1001, the paper information control unit 0404 acquires the edited paper information. Then, the process proceeds to S1002. In S1002, the paper information control unit 0404 transmits the updated paper information to the image forming device 0101 via the NW control unit 0401. Then, the process ends.

[0086] 10(d) shows the processing of the image forming apparatus 0101 when synchronizing paper information between the print control apparatus 0109 and the image forming apparatus 0101 in this embodiment 1. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0201 of the image forming apparatus 0101 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 0205 from the RAM 0202 and executing it. The flowchart for the image forming apparatus 0101 starts when the print control device is turned on and is repeated until the power is turned off. When a notification that the paper has been edited is received from the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0411, the paper information control unit 0414 proceeds to S1022. In S1022, the paper information control unit 0414 accesses the paper management table 0701 in the storage unit 0205, reflects the updated paper information, and then ends the process.

[0087] Also, when paper is updated in the image forming device 0101, the updated content is notified to the print control device 0109 according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 10(c). Then, the print control device 0109 reflects the updated content in the paper management table 0701 according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 10(b). The flowcharts shown in Fig. 10(b) and Fig. 10(c) are equivalent to the content explained in the flowcharts shown in Fig. 10(d) and Fig. 10(a), respectively, and therefore explanations thereof will be omitted. [Example]

[0088] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. <About the job property screen of the print control device> FIG. 11 shows a screen for specifying an inspection mode in job properties in the print control device 0109 of the second embodiment. The job property screen 1101 is stored in the storage unit 0236, and when the operator operates the UI panel 0261 to instruct the inspection mode setting, the printer control unit 0403 instructs the UI control unit 0432 to display it on the UI panel 0261. Area 1102 is an area for specifying whether or not to perform inspection using the inspection device 0108. Area 1103 is an area for specifying inspection settings. Area 1104 is an area for specifying the inspection operation (only reference image registration, only printing, or both). Area 1105 is an area for specifying which inspection method (scan inspection or RIP inspection) to perform. When the operator operates the UI panel 0261 to specify each of the areas 1102 to 1105 and presses the Print button 1106, the printer control unit 0403 submits the specified inspection job to the image forming device 0101.

[0089] When the inspection method selected in area 1105 is scan inspection, first, the image forming device 0101 prints the print job to be inspected. The printout printed on paper by the image forming device 0101 is photographed by the inspection unit 0106 and becomes image data. The image forming device 0101 sends the image data to the inspection device 0108. The operator checks that the image displayed on the inspection device 0108 is free of stains and character errors and registers it as a reference image. As described above, the reference image registration method for scan inspection registers image data obtained by scanning the printout as a reference image in the inspection device 0108. Note that the reference image can also be created by printing and photographing multiple copies using the image forming device 0101, sending the photographs to the inspection device 0108, and using a composite image of the multiple copies as the reference image.

[0090] Furthermore, if the inspection method selected in area 1105 is RIP inspection, the image forming device 0101 transmits the generated RIP image to the inspection device 0108. At this time, the RIP image may be a RIP image generated by a RIP device (for example, RIP software) other than the image forming device 0101. As described above, the reference image registration method in RIP inspection registers the RIP image as a reference image in the inspection device 0108.

[0091] <About job submission processing of print control devices> 12 shows a flowchart for registering a reference image and submitting an inspection job in the print control device 0109 of this embodiment 2. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 0234 of the print control device 0109 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0236 into the RAM 0235 and executing it. Note that the flowchart is a common flow for scan inspection and RIP inspection.

[0092] This flowchart starts when the Print button 1106 is operated on the job property screen 1101. In S1201, the printer control unit 0403 checks the operation set in the area 1104. If the operation is "print only" (YES), the process proceeds to S1206. If the operation is "registration only" or "registration and printing" (NO) in S1201, the process proceeds to S1202. In S1202, the print control device 0109 sends a reference image registration job to the image forming device 0101. Here, paper information to be used for each reference image is also sent to the image forming device 0101. Then, the process proceeds to S1203.

[0093] When "Scan Inspection" is selected in area 1105 of the job property screen 1101, the printer control unit 0403 transmits a print job for one or more copies to the image forming device 0101. The image forming device 0101 receives the print job, performs printing and photographing, and then transmits the photographed images to the inspection device 0108.

[0094] When "RIP inspection" is selected in the area 1105 of the job property screen 1101, the printer control unit 0403 does not instruct printing by the image forming device 0101, but sends the RIP image as a reference image to the inspection device 0108. Then, the process proceeds to S1203. When the printer control unit 0403 receives a notification of completion of registration of the reference image from the inspection device 0108 via the NW control unit 0401, the printer control unit 0403 advances the process to S1204.

[0095] In S1204, the printer control unit 0403 checks the operation set in the area 1104 of the job property screen 1101. If the operation is "Register only", the process ends. If the operation is "Register & Print" in S1204, the process proceeds to S1206.

[0096] In S1206, the printer control unit 0403 checks whether the test print mode is ON. If the test print mode is ON (YES), the processing will be described in the third embodiment. If the test print mode is not ON (NO), the processing proceeds to S1205. In S1205, the printer control unit 0403 sends the actual print job to the image forming apparatus 0101, and the processing ends.

[0097] The actual print job is sent through the same process regardless of whether or not inspection is selected in area 1102 of the job property screen 1101. When the actual print job is sent from the print control device 0109 to the image forming device 0101, the image forming device 0101 performs a printing operation, takes a photograph of the printed paper using the photographing unit 0218, and then sends the photographed image to the inspection device 0108. The inspection device 0108 performs an inspection by comparing the photographed image of the printed matter with a reference image.

[0098] <Inspection device operation mode settings and recovery process when consecutive inspections fail> 13(a) is a setting screen for specifying the operation mode and the operation to be performed when consecutive NGs occur during testing in the testing device 0108 and the testing unit 0106. The testing mode selection screen 1301 is stored in the storage unit 0228, and when an operation mode setting is instructed by operating the display unit 0245, the testing control unit 0424 instructs the UI control unit 0422 to display the screen on the display unit 0245.

[0099] An operation mode setting 1302 on the inspection mode selection screen 1301 accepts the operation mode setting by the operator. When "log mode" is selected, the image forming apparatus 0101 ejects the paper after inspection to a paper ejection destination specified in advance in the properties of the print job, regardless of the inspection result by the inspection device 0108. When "purge mode" is selected, the image forming apparatus 0101 ejects paper for which the inspection result is NG to the top tray 0320.

[0100] If "Purge mode" is selected in the operation mode setting 1302, the recovery setting 1303 on the inspection mode selection screen 1301 reflects that setting. If "No recovery mode" is selected in the recovery setting 1303, the image forming device 0101 ejects only sheets that have failed the inspection to the top tray 0320. The image forming device 0101 and the inspection device 0108 continue printing and inspecting subsequent sheets as usual.

[0101] If "with recovery mode" is selected in the recovery setting 1303, the image forming device 0101 ejects the paper for which the inspection result is NG and all subsequent paper that has been fed in the device at the time the inspection device 0108 determines that the inspection result is NG to the top tray 0320. After that, when there is no more paper in the paper transport path, the image forming device 0101 and the inspection device 0108 resume printing and inspection from the image that was printed on the paper for which the inspection result is NG.

[0102] The operation 1304 for consecutive NGs on the inspection mode selection screen 1301 accepts whether or not to stop printing / inspection when consecutive NGs occur during inspection by the inspection device 0108. When the operator operates the display unit 0245 to select "Stop inspection" and enter a number in "Number of NG sheets", the inspection device 0108 stops printing and inspection when consecutive NGs occur during inspection for the specified number of sheets.

[0103] Test printing before printing and inspection 1305 on the inspection mode selection screen 1301 is a setting for test printing before starting printing and inspection for paper with a high inspection level set or paper that has never been inspected by the inspection device 0108. This accepts whether or not to use a function that checks whether printing and inspection can be performed without any problems prior to actual printing and inspection. The operation of this function will be described in embodiment 3.

[0104] When the operator sets the operation mode displayed on the inspection mode selection screen 1301 and operates the display unit 0245 to press the OK button 1306, the UI control unit 0422 instructs the inspection information storage unit 0423 to record the inspection setting information in the memory unit 0228. Furthermore, the UI control unit 0422 notifies the print control device 0109 of information regarding whether or not test printing will be performed, which was set in the test printing before printing and inspection 1305. In response to this, the print control device 0109 records the information regarding whether or not test printing will be performed in the RAM 0235.

[0105] Table 1311 in FIG. 13(b) lists recovery actions corresponding to NG items when the test results in consecutive NGs as set in the operation 1304 for consecutive NGs. Table 1311 is stored in the storage unit 0228 and is referenced by the test control unit 0424 to determine the necessary recovery action after consecutive NGs occur during the test and printing and testing are stopped. For example, if the type of test NG is misalignment, it is possible that the print output position in the image forming device 0101 is misaligned from the correct position. In this case, because performing registration adjustment may resolve the test NG, it is described that registration adjustment should be performed as a recovery action. Furthermore, color deviation from the standard may be detected as a streak-like stain on the test image. In this case, it is possible that the test NG may be resolved by performing calibration processing using the image forming device 0101 and the print control device 0109, so it is described that calibration should be performed as a recovery action.

[0106] <About the operation of the inspection device> Next, the operation of the inspection device 0108 will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 shows a flowchart when the inspection device 0108 of this embodiment executes an inspection job. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 and executing the program.

[0107] This flowchart starts when the inspection device accepts an inspection job. In S1401, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the storage unit 0228 and checks the inspection operation set in area 1104 of the job property screen 1101. If the inspection operation is "print only," the process proceeds to S1409. If the inspection operation is "registration only" or "registration and printing," the process proceeds to S1402.

[0108] The processing of S1402 will be explained using the flowchart of Fig. 15. Fig. 15 shows a flowchart of the inspection device 0108 of this second embodiment. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 and executing it. This flowchart is started when the inspection operation is "registration only" or "registration and printing" (NO) in S1401. Note that the flowchart of Fig. 15 is common to scan inspection and RIP inspection.

[0109] In S1501, the inspection control unit 0424 receives a notification of the start of a reference image registration job from the image forming apparatus 0101. Then, the process proceeds to S1502. The inspection control unit 0424 repeats S1502 to S1505 until the reference images of all sheets are stored in the memory unit 0228 of the inspection apparatus 0108. Here, if the inspection method is scan inspection, the inspection unit I / F 0231 receives images scanned by the CIS 0315 and CIS 0316 from the inspection apparatus I / F 0215 of the inspection unit 0106.

[0110] If the inspection method is RIP inspection, the RIP image generated by the image forming apparatus 0101 before printing is received from the inspection apparatus I / F 0215 of the inspection unit 0106. Then, the process proceeds to S1504. In S1504, the inspection control unit 0424 stores the received image in the RAM 0227.

[0111] 20 shows a table that stores the paper used, inspection items, and inspection level for each page of the reference image. The inspection control unit 0424 assigns Page IDs to table 2001 in the order in which the reference images are read, and records the paper information used for each page received from the print control device 0109 in the paper column. Furthermore, the inspection level information linked to the paper information used is recorded in the inspection level column. Then, the process proceeds to S1505. In S1505, when reading of all images is completed, the process ends.

[0112] Returning to Fig. 14, the process proceeds to S1403. In S1403, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the memory unit 0228 and checks the inspection operation set in the area 1103 of the job property screen 1101. If the inspection operation is "Default" or "Preset" (if NO), the process proceeds to S1413. If the inspection operation is "New" (if YES), the process proceeds to S1404.

[0113] 19 stored in the memory unit 0228. Then, the inspection control unit 0424 instructs the UI control unit 0422 to display it on the display unit 0245. Then, the process proceeds to S1405. In S1405, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the memory unit 0228 and checks the inspection operation set in the area 1104 of the job property screen 1101.

[0114] If the inspection operation is "registration only", the process proceeds to S1410. If the inspection operation is "registration and printing", the process proceeds to S1406. In S1406, the process starts accepting inspection settings from the operator.

[0115] Here, the inspection setting screen 1901 will be described. Area 1902 is a preview area, which displays the reference image generated in the flowchart of FIG. 15. Area 1903 is an inspection level setting section, which allows the inspection level for each inspection item, i.e., the inspection precision, to be set. The higher the inspection level set, the more likely the inspection device 0108 is to determine even slight differences between the reference image and the printed matter as abnormalities. Examples of abnormalities here include circular abnormalities (stains (dots)) and streak-like abnormalities (stains (streaks)).

[0116] When comparing a reference image with a scanned image of a printed material, a circular anomaly is when a circular stain appears only on the scanned image of the printed material, and a streak anomaly is when a streak-like or linear stain appears only on the scanned image of the printed material. These are just examples, and the types of anomalies that the inspection device 0108 can detect are not limited to these. The page number display unit 1904 can switch the image to be displayed when there are multiple reference images.

[0117] The paper to be used when printing this sheet is displayed in the paper to be used area 1907. The OK button 1905 is a button for registering the inspection level set in the area 1903 set for the reference image. The cancel button 1906 is a button for instructing the cancellation of the inspection job. This screen is displayed to accept from the operator the inspection level for each inspection item for each reference image saved in the inspection device 0108.

[0118] When the operator operates the display unit 0245 to edit the inspection level for each inspection item shown in the area 1903 and operates the OK button 1905, the inspection control unit 0424 determines in S1407 that the inspection settings are complete. The inspection control unit 0424 then instructs the inspection information storage unit 0423 to update the inspection level in table 2001. It also accesses the paper management table 0701 and updates the inspection level associated with the paper being used. The process then proceeds to S1408. In S1408, the inspection control unit 0424 transmits a registration completion notification to the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0421. The process then proceeds to S1409.

[0119] The process of S1409 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 16 shows a flowchart of the inspection device 0108 of the second embodiment. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 and executing it. This flowchart starts in S1408 when the print control device 0109 is notified of the completion of registration.

[0120] In S1601, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the storage unit 0228 and checks the operation mode, recovery setting, operation to be performed when consecutive NGs occur, and number of NGs set on the inspection mode selection screen 1301. Then, the process proceeds to S1602. In S1602, the inspection control unit 0424 receives an instruction to start image reading for this print job. Then, the process proceeds to S1603.

[0121] Here, the inspection control unit 0424 repeats S1603 to S1618 until inspection of all sheets is completed. The process proceeds to S1604. In S1604, the inspection control unit 0424 receives images scanned by the CIS 0315 and CIS 0316 via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and inspection device I / F 0215, and records them in the RAM 0227. The process then proceeds to S1605.

[0122] In S1605, the inspection control unit 0424 reads the image registered as the reference image in S1504 from the storage unit 0228 and writes it to the RAM 0227. Then, the process proceeds to S1606. In S1606, the images recorded in the RAM 0227 in S1604 and S1605 are compared. In this comparison, characteristic points of the images are first used as alignment reference points to align the image positions of the reference image and the scanned image of the inspection target. Next, the four corners of the paper and the alignment reference points of the scanned image of the inspection target are analyzed to detect any misalignment of the image relative to the paper. Next, the density values of the reference image and the scanned image of the inspection target are compared pixel by pixel. If no difference is detected between the scanned image and the reference image as a result of the above, the inspection result is determined to be OK. If a difference is detected, the inspection result is determined to be NG, and details of the NG inspection result are recorded depending on the type of abnormality.

[0123] Here, a screen displaying the status of an examination being performed by the examination device 0108 will be described with reference to Fig. 17(a). Fig. 17(a) shows an examination status screen displayed on the display unit 0245 when an examination is being performed. The examination status screen 1701 is stored in the memory unit 0228, and is displayed on the display unit 0245 by the UI control unit 0422 based on an instruction from the examination control unit 0424.

[0124] An examination status screen 1701 accepts execution / stop of an examination and also displays the examination status. An examination button 1702 accepts execution / stop of an examination from the operator. When the examination button 1702 is operated, the text on the button changes to "Stop examination" and the examination status 1703 changes to "In examination". When the examination button 1702 is operated again, the text on the button changes to "Start examination" and the examination status 1703 changes to "Stopped". Thereafter, the text on the examination button 1702 and the examination status 1703 change in a toggle manner each time the examination button 1702 is operated.

[0125] The inspection status screen 1701 displays the number of inspected sheets, the number of sheets with an NG inspection result, the defect rate, and the number of causes of the NG inspection result in real time during the inspection. Note that "Error" displayed on the inspection status screen 1701 indicates the number of times the inspection device 0108 has timed out and determined that the inspection was an error, resulting in an NG inspection result, because the inspection was not completed within the specified inspection time.

[0126] Each time an NG test result occurs, the form number of the NG test result, information on whether it is the front or back, the cause of the NG test result, the test time, and a link to the NG details screen are added to the NG test result list 1704. When "Details" is operated, the test control unit 0424 instructs the UI control unit 0422 to display on the display unit 0245 a screen where the captured image that resulted in the NG test result, the location of the abnormality, etc. can be viewed.

[0127] Examples of causes of an NG inspection result include misalignment, circular anomalies (dots), and streak-like anomalies (streaks). When comparing a scanned image with a reference image, misalignment is an anomaly in which all or part of the image is misaligned overall. A circular anomaly is a condition in which circular stains occur only on the scanned image. A streak-like anomaly is a condition in which streak-like or linear stains occur only on the scanned image. The inspection device 0108 can thus identify the type of detected anomaly based on the anomaly's characteristics and display it in the NG inspection list 1704. Note that these are merely examples, and the types of anomalies that the inspection device 0108 can detect are not limited to these. For example, when an image is drawn only on the reference image and all or part of the image is missing from the scanned image, the anomaly may be determined to be missing and added to the NG inspection result.

[0128] The process returns to S1606. When the comparison of the images is completed in S1606, the process proceeds to S1607. If the inspection is completed within the specified time in S1607, the process proceeds to S1608. If the inspection is not completed within the specified time, the process proceeds to S1611. This determination is made because if the inspection is not completed and the inspection results are not issued within a certain time, the subsequent paper will not be scanned by the CIS0315, 0316 in time for the inspection unit I / F0231 and inspection device I / F0215 to start operating on the scanned image.

[0129] If the inspection result is NG (YES) in S1608, the process proceeds to S1609. In S1609, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the RAM 0227 to check whether the inspection of the previous page was OK or NG. If the inspection of the previous page was OK or this is the inspection of the first page, the NG number is set to 1, and if the inspection of the previous page was NG, the recorded NG number is incremented by 1 and the value is stored in the RAM 0227. Then the process proceeds to S1610.

[0130] In S1610, the inspection control unit 0424 acquires the counter value of the number of consecutive NGs stored in the RAM 0227. Then, the number of NGs set in the operation 1304 for consecutive NGs, which is recorded in the storage unit 0228, is acquired and compared with the counter value of the number of consecutive NGs. If the two values are equal, it is determined that the number of NGs set in the operation 1304 for consecutive NGs has been reached (if YES), and the process proceeds to S1620. If the two values are not equal, it is determined that the number of NGs set in the operation 1304 for consecutive NGs has not been reached (if NO), and the process proceeds to S1611.

[0131] In S1611, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the memory unit 0228 to acquire the operation mode. If the operation mode is not "purge mode" (if NO), the process proceeds to S1617. If the operation mode is "purge mode" (if YES), the process proceeds to S1612. In S1612, the inspection control unit 0424 notifies the image forming apparatus 0101 of the inspection result NG via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and the inspection apparatus I / F 0215. Then, the process proceeds to S1613. In S1613, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the memory unit 0228 to acquire the recovery setting. If the recovery setting is "mode without recovery" (if NO), the process proceeds to S1616. If the recovery setting is "mode with recovery" (if YES), the process proceeds to S1614.

[0132] In S1614, when the inspection control unit 0424 receives print stop information from the image forming apparatus 0101 via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and the inspection device I / F 0215, the process proceeds to S1615. In S1615, the inspection control unit 0424 reads out the reference image corresponding to the sheet with the NG inspection result from the RAM 0227 and stores it as the image to be inspected next. Then, the process proceeds to S1616. In S1616, the inspection control unit 0424 notifies the image forming apparatus 0101 via the inspection unit I / F 0231 and the inspection device I / F 0215 that inspection will resume. Then, the process proceeds to S1617. In S1617, the inspection control unit 0424 adds information about the sheet with the NG inspection result to the NG inspection list 1704 and instructs the UI control unit 0422 to update the inspection status screen 1701. Then, the process proceeds to S1618.

[0133] Here, S1603 to S1618 are repeated until inspection of all sheets is completed. When inspection of all sheets is completed, the inspection control unit 0424 proceeds to S1619. In S1619, the inspection control unit 0424 instructs the UI control unit 0422 to display on the display unit 0245 that the inspection has been completed. Then, the process proceeds to S1626. In S1626, the inspection control unit 0424 notifies the print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101, via the NW control unit 0421, of information regarding the sheets that have been inspected. Then, the process ends. The print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 access their own paper management tables 0701 and update the paper inspection history information.

[0134] The description returns to S1610. In S1610, if the number of consecutive sheets that have failed the inspection reaches a predetermined number (YES), the process proceeds to S1620. In S1620, the inspection control unit 0424 instructs the image forming apparatus 0101 to suspend printing via the NW control unit 0421. Then, the process proceeds to S1621. In S1621, when the inspection control unit 0424 receives printing suspension information from the image forming apparatus 0101, the process proceeds to S1622.

[0135] In S1622, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the RAM 0227 to check the items that have failed the inspection. Then, it accesses the table 1311 to check whether a recovery process exists for the failed inspection item. If there is no recovery process for the failed inspection item, or if all recovery processes have already been performed, the process proceeds to S1624. If there is a recovery process for the failed inspection item (if YES), the process proceeds to S1623. In S1623, the inspection control unit 0424 executes the selected recovery process. For example, if the failed inspection item is "position misalignment (vertical)," the corresponding recovery process is selected as "registration adjustment." If "registration adjustment" is selected, the inspection control unit 0424 instructs the image forming apparatus 0101 to execute "registration adjustment." Then, the process proceeds to S1615, where the sheet that failed the inspection is reprinted and inspected to check whether it will result in a failed inspection. The subsequent processing has already been explained, so it will not be repeated here.

[0136] Returning to S1622, if the test control unit 0424 determines in S1622 that there is no recovery process for the test NG or that all recovery processes have been performed (NO), the process proceeds to S1624. The process of S1624 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0137] 18 shows a flowchart of the inspection device 0108 of this embodiment 2. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 and executing it. This flowchart starts when it is determined in S1622 that there is no recovery processing for NG.

[0138] In S1801, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the RAM 0227 and acquires an inspection image. Then, the process proceeds to S1802. In S1802, the inspection control unit 0424 acquires the inspection level change / service call request screen shown in FIG. 17(b) from the storage unit 0228. Furthermore, for the NG image acquired in S1801, the inspection control unit 0424 performs an inspection with the inspection level of the NG portion lowered, and calculates how far the inspection level needs to be lowered to pass the inspection. Then, the inspection control unit 0424 instructs the UI control unit 0422 to display the inspection level change / service call request screen 1711, including the NG image and the calculation result, on the display unit 0245. Then, the process proceeds to S1803.

[0139] Thereafter, the operator visually inspects the print paper that has been judged to be an NG inspection, comparing it with the NG parts displayed in 1712 on screen 1711, and determines whether or not to accept the NG inspection result. For example, if the operator determines that the NG inspection result is an overdetection caused by an inspection level that is higher than expected, the operator selects button 1714 to prevent similar NG inspections from occurring in subsequent inspections. If the operator determines that the NG inspection result this time is unacceptable, the operator selects button 1715. If the operator wants to stop the inspection altogether, the operator selects 1713.

[0140] When any of the operator operations is accepted, the inspection control unit 0424 proceeds to S1804. In S1804, the inspection control unit 0424 checks whether the operation accepted in S1803 is to change the inspection level. If it is to change the inspection level (YES), the process proceeds to S1805. In S1805, the inspection control unit 0424 performs processing to change the inspection level of the image that failed the inspection. Furthermore, the inspection control unit 0424 identifies the paper used to print the image that failed the inspection, accesses the paper management table 0701, and updates the inspection level associated with the corresponding paper to the changed inspection level. Then, the process proceeds to S1809. In S1809, the inspection control unit 0424 notifies the print control device 0109 and the image forming apparatus 0101 via the NW control unit 0421 of information about the paper whose inspection level has been updated. Then, the process ends. The print control device 0109 and the image forming device 0101 access their own paper management table 0701 and update the inspection level of the relevant paper.

[0141] The explanation returns to S1804. In S1804, if the inspection control unit 0424 determines that the process accepted in S1803 is not a change in the inspection level (if NO), the process proceeds to S1806. In S1806, the inspection control unit 0424 checks whether the process accepted in S1803 is a service call. If the accepted process is not a service call (if NO), the process proceeds to S1808. If the accepted process is a service call (if YES), the process proceeds to S1807. In S1807, the inspection control unit 0424 notifies a pre-registered call center that there is an abnormality in the print image quality and that the problem cannot be resolved by executing a pre-prepared recovery process. Then, the process proceeds to S1808.

[0142] In S1808, the inspection control unit 0424 issues an instruction to the image forming apparatus 0101 to cancel the inspection currently being performed and the printing that has been stopped, and ends the process. Returning to Fig. 16, the process proceeds to S1625. In S1625, the inspection control unit 0424 checks whether an instruction to change the inspection level and resume printing has been given. If an instruction to change the inspection level and resume printing has been given (YES), the process proceeds to S1616. If it is determined that an instruction to change the inspection level and resume printing has not been given (NO), the process proceeds to S1619. The subsequent processing has already been explained, so it will not be repeated here.

[0143] The explanation will return to S1405 in Fig. 14. In S1405, if the inspection operation is "registration only" (if NO), the process proceeds to S1410. The process proceeds from there to S1410, S1411, and S1412, but the details have already been explained in S1406 to S1408 and will not be repeated here.

[0144] The explanation returns to S1403. In S1403, if the inspection operation is "Default" or "Preset" (if NO), the process proceeds to S1413. The inspection setting "Preset" is a function that records in advance a combination of inspection levels for each inspection item that the operator frequently uses. For example, in the inspection setting on the job property screen 1101, "Preset1" is selected, and a job is submitted from the print control device 0109. Then, in S1413, the inspection control unit 0424 reads out the inspection level information for each inspection item in Preset1 from the memory unit 0228, and reflects it in the inspection level information of the reference image.

[0145] Here, the "Default" inspection operation means that the inspection level associated with the paper on which the reference image is printed is applied. Specifically, the reference image is inspected using the information stored in table 2001. For example, for Page ID "0001" in table 2001, the paper "EV_Car_Catalog (for cover)" is used, and it is further recorded that this page is to be inspected at inspection level "7" for inspection items (stains (dots)) and (stains (streaks)). In this way, when the inspection operation is "Default," the inspection level associated with the paper used for each page in the input print job is automatically assigned, and each page is inspected.

[0146] Once the inspection information required for each inspection operation has been determined, the inspection control unit 0424 advances the process to S1414. The processing of S1414 has already been explained in S1408 and S1412, and therefore will not be repeated here. The process then advances to S1415. In S1415, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the memory unit 0228 and checks the inspection operation set in area 1104 of the job property screen 1101. If the inspection operation is "registration only" (if NO), the process ends. If the inspection operation is "registration & printing" (if YES), the process advances to S1409. The subsequent processing has already been explained, and therefore will not be repeated here. [Example]

[0147] <How to determine whether to apply the inspection level assigned to an existing sheet based on similar names> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. 21 is a flowchart showing a method for determining whether to apply an inspection level assigned to an existing registered sheet based on the paper name entered in the paper name field in the print control device 0109 of the third embodiment. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0234 of the print control device 0109 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0236 into the RAM 0235 and executing it. The flowchart of the print control device 0109 starts when the operator operates the UI panel 0261 to issue a paper registration instruction, and the UI control unit 0402 retrieves the input screen 0601 from the storage unit 0236 and displays it on the UI panel 0261.

[0148] When the operator operates the UI panel 0261 to input a paper name in the paper name field 0602, the paper information control unit 0404 advances the process to S2102. In S2102, the paper information control unit 0404 accesses the paper management table 0701, searches the registered paper name column, and checks whether there is a paper name with a character string similar to the character string input in field 0602. As a means for determining whether the character strings are similar, for example, the first three characters of the paper name of paper ID: 0001, "chirashi" (flyer), match the first three characters of the "chirashi" (flyer) input in field 0602, and it may be determined that the two character strings are similar. Furthermore, it may also be determined that the two character strings are similar if a specified number of characters from the middle of the character string match, even if not at the beginning of the character string. The method for determining whether the character strings match or are similar is not important.

[0149] In S2102, if the paper information control unit 0404 determines that there is existing paper whose paper name matches the specified number of characters, the process proceeds to S2103. In S2103, the paper management table 0701 is accessed to obtain the media type (surface property), media type (basis weight (gsm)), and inspection level information set for the existing paper whose paper name is determined to be similar. The control unit then instructs the UI control unit 0402 to display the obtained information on the UI panel 0203, and the process proceeds to S2104. Here, if the operator operates the UI panel 0203 to edit the area 0603 of the media type (surface property) input field, the area 0504 of the media type (basis weight (gsm)) input field, or both, the process proceeds to S2105.

[0150] The subsequent processing proceeds to S2105, S2106, S2107, and S2108, but the details have already been explained in S0804, S0805, and S0806 in the flowchart of Figure 8(a), so they will not be explained here. When the operator operates the OK button 0609, the UI control unit 0402 advances the processing to S2109. The processing of S2109 has already been explained in S0808 in the flowchart of Figure 8(a), so it will not be explained here. Then, the processing ends.

[0151] <How to determine whether to perform a test print when submitting a job> 22(a) shows a flowchart of the inspection device 0108 of the third embodiment. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0226 of the inspection device 0108 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 0228 into the RAM 0227 and executing it. This flowchart is started when "Test printing before printing and inspection" 1305 on the inspection mode selection screen 1301 is set to "Perform" before printing and inspection are performed in S1409 of FIG. 14.

[0152] In S2201, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the table 0501 to check the default level for each inspection item. Then, it accesses the table 2001 to check whether there is any paper to be used in the inspection for which an inspection level higher than the default level is set. If there is any such paper (YES), the process proceeds to S2202. In S2202, the inspection control unit 0424 records the paper picked up in S2201 in the RAM 0227. Then, the process proceeds to S2203.

[0153] In S2203, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the table 2001 and picks up the paper to be used in the inspection. Then, it inquires of the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0421 whether the paper to be used in the inspection has an inspection history. Then, the process proceeds to S2204. In S2204, the inspection control unit 0424 receives the inquiry result from the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0421. Then, the process proceeds to S2205. In S2205, the inspection control unit 0424 determines, from the result received from the print control device 0109 in S2204, whether or not the paper includes paper that will be used in the inspection device for the first time. If paper that will be used in the inspection device for the first time is included, the process proceeds to S2206.

[0154] In S2206, the inspection control unit 0424 records the paper information received from the print control device 0109 in S2204 in the RAM 0227. Then, the process proceeds to S2207. In S2207, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the RAM 0227 to check whether there is paper for which an inspection level higher than the standard is set, or paper being used for inspection for the first time. If there is any such paper (if YES), the process proceeds to S2208. In S2208, the RAM 0227 is accessed, the corresponding paper information in S2207 is acquired, and the test printing necessity confirmation screen 2301 shown in FIG. 23 is acquired from the memory unit 0228, and the UI control unit 0422 is instructed to display it on the display unit 0245. The operator looks at the display unit 0245 and selects whether or not to perform test printing. When the operator operates the button 2302 for performing test printing or the button 2303 for not performing test printing, the UI control unit 0422 advances the process to S2209.

[0155] In S2209, the inspection control unit 0424 checks which button the operator pressed in S2208. If the button 2302 for performing test printing has been pressed, the process proceeds to S2210. In S2210, the inspection control unit 0424 accesses the RAM 0227 and picks up the Page ID associated with the paper to be tested. Then, the inspection control unit 0424 sends the picked-up Page ID to the print control device 0109 via the NW control unit 0421. Then, the process proceeds to S2211. In S2211, the inspection control unit 0424 reads the image that is input from the print control device 0109, printed by the image forming device 0101, scanned, and sent to the inspection device 0108, and compares it with the reference image. Then, the process ends.

[0156] 22(b) shows a flowchart of the print control device 0109 of the third embodiment. The processing of this flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 0234 of the print control device 0109 reading a program stored in the storage unit 0236 into the RAM 0235 and executing it. This flowchart starts in S1207 when it is determined in S1206 of FIG. 12 that the test print mode is ON.

[0157] In S2221, when the paper information control unit 0404 receives an inquiry from the inspection device 0108 regarding whether the paper has an inspection history, the process proceeds to S2222. In S2222, the paper information control unit 0404 accesses the paper management table 0701 to obtain the inspection history of the paper inquired about, and sends the information to the inspection device 0108 via the NW control unit 0401. The process then proceeds to S2223. When the printer control unit 0403 receives test printing necessity information from the inspection device 0108 via the NW control unit 0431, the process proceeds to S2224. In S2224, if the test printing necessity information received in S2223 indicates that test printing is necessary (YES), the printer control unit 0403 proceeds to S2225. In S2225, the printer control unit 0403 selects the pages required for printing from the PageIDs associated with the test implementation information in S2223, and transmits only the corresponding pages to the image forming apparatus 0101, thereby completing the process.

[0158] <Inspection level is not stored in the paper used, but the inspection device identifies the paper type used when printing and inspection begins and determines the inspection level> In the first and second embodiments, the reference image registration and printing and inspection method in which inspection information is linked to paper have been described. When inspecting using the inspection device 0108, the inspection level may be determined from the paper information of the paper used, without linking it to the paper DB of the print control device 0109 or the image forming device 0101. In this case, the inspection control unit 0424 of the inspection device 0108 acquires, from the print control device 0109, the paper surface texture and paper type, such as the paper basis weight, linked to the paper information used for each page. The inspection control unit 0424 then calculates the inspection level for the paper type of that paper from tables 0501, 0502, and 0503, and performs the inspection in S1606 of FIG. 16 .

[0159] <In the case where inspection level information linked to paper type is stored on the cloud server> Furthermore, the tables 0502 and 0503, which indicate information about inspection levels associated with paper types, may be held by the cloud server 0111. In this case, the print control device 0109 or the inspection device 0108 acquires the paper type, such as the surface texture and paper basis weight of the paper, associated with the paper information used on each page, and requests the inspection level information associated with the paper type from the cloud server 0111. The cloud server 0111 calculates the inspection level for that paper from tables 0501 and 0502, and transmits the inspection level to the print control device 0109 or the inspection device 0108. The print control device 0109 or the inspection device 0108 then performs the inspection in S1606 of FIG. 16 .

[0160] <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 (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0161] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention.

[0162] The disclosure of this specification includes the following inspection apparatus, inspection method, program, and image forming apparatus. (Item 1) An inspection device, an inspection means for reading the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means and detecting any abnormality in the formed image; the inspection means detects abnormalities based on paper management information in which inspection levels are linked to paper information and an inspection level determined based on the paper information of the paper on which the image is formed. Inspection equipment. (Item 2) the paper information includes at least one paper type of a surface property of the paper and a basis weight of the paper; Item 1. The inspection device according to item 1. (Item 3) the inspection level of the paper management information is generated based on a standard inspection level and an adjustment value for the standard inspection level according to the paper type; Item 2. The inspection device according to item 2. (Item 4) The paper management information includes setting information of the inspection level for each of the front and back surfaces of the paper. Item 3: The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 3. (Item 5) The paper management information is stored in a storage unit of at least one of a print control device and an image forming device connected to the inspection device, and the inspection device. 5. The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 4. (Item 6) When an abnormality is detected by the inspection means, the image formation by the image forming means is stopped, and if a recovery process for the abnormality is required, the image forming means is made to carry out the recovery process, and then the stopped image formation is resumed. 6. The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 5. (Item 7) If there is no recovery process for the abnormality, the inspection result when the inspection level is lowered is displayed on a display device. Item 6. The inspection device according to item 6. (Item 8) when an operator instructs a change in the inspection level, the inspection means resumes detecting anomalies at the changed inspection level; Item 7. The inspection device according to item 7. (Item 9) When the inspection level is changed, the inspection level of the paper information associated with the changed inspection level is updated. Item 9. The inspection device according to item 8. (Item 10) the inspection means detects an abnormality in the image by comparing the formed image with a registered reference image that is free of abnormalities, when an inspection level is specified for the reference image, paper information of a paper on which the reference image is to be formed is specified, and the inspection level of the specified paper information is updated. 10. The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 9. (Item 11) When registering paper information, if the character string of the input paper name is similar to the character string of the paper name of the registered paper information, the inspection level associated with the paper information of the similar registered paper name is set to the inspection level of the paper information of the input paper name. The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 10. (Item 12) When a standard inspection is instructed and an image forming job using paper with paper information having an inspection level higher than the standard inspection is selected, the operator is prompted to select whether or not to perform test printing on a page using paper with paper information having an inspection level higher than the standard inspection. 12. The inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 11. (Item 13) An inspection device, an inspection means for reading the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means and detecting any abnormality in the formed image; When image formation and inspection are performed, paper information of the paper used is specified, and an inspection level for detecting abnormalities by the inspection means is determined based on the paper type of the paper information. Inspection equipment. (Item 14) An image forming apparatus, an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet; a reading means for reading the paper on which an image is formed; a storage means for storing paper management information linking paper types with inspection levels; An inspection device according to any one of items 1 to 13, An image forming apparatus comprising: (Item 15) 1. A testing method comprising: The inspection means reads the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means, and detects any abnormality in the formed image; the inspection means detects abnormalities based on paper management information in which inspection levels are linked to paper information and an inspection level determined based on the paper information of the paper on which the image is formed. Testing method. (Item 16) The computer of the inspection equipment, The reading means reads the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means, and the reading means functions as an inspection means for detecting abnormalities in the formed image; the inspection means detects abnormalities based on paper management information in which inspection levels are linked to paper information and an inspection level determined based on the paper type of the paper on which the image is formed. Program for. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 0101: image forming apparatus, 0106: inspection unit, 0107: large-capacity stacker, 0108: inspection device, 0109: print control device, 0110: information processing device, 0111: cloud server

Claims

1. An inspection device, an inspection means for reading the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means and detecting any abnormality in the formed image; the inspection means detects abnormalities based on paper management information in which inspection levels are linked to paper information and an inspection level determined based on the paper information of the paper on which the image is formed. Inspection equipment.

2. the paper information includes at least one paper type of a surface property of the paper and a basis weight of the paper; The inspection device according to claim 1 .

3. the inspection level of the paper management information is generated based on a standard inspection level and an adjustment value for the standard inspection level according to the paper type; The inspection device according to claim 2 .

4. The paper management information includes setting information of the inspection level for each of the front and back surfaces of the paper. The inspection device according to claim 1 .

5. The paper management information is stored in a storage unit of at least one of a print control device and an image forming device connected to the inspection device, and the inspection device.

2. The inspection device according to claim 1.

6. When an abnormality is detected by the inspection means, the image formation by the image forming means is stopped, and if a recovery process for the abnormality is required, the image forming means is made to carry out the recovery process, and then the stopped image formation is resumed. The inspection device according to claim 1 .

7. If there is no recovery process for the abnormality, the inspection result when the inspection level is lowered is displayed on a display device. The inspection device according to claim 6.

8. when an operator instructs a change in the inspection level, the inspection means resumes detecting anomalies at the changed inspection level; The inspection device according to claim 7.

9. When the inspection level is changed, the inspection level of the paper information associated with the changed inspection level is updated. The inspection device according to claim 8.

10. the inspection means detects an abnormality in the image by comparing the formed image with a registered reference image that is free of abnormalities, when an inspection level is specified for the reference image, paper information of a paper on which the reference image is to be formed is specified, and the inspection level of the specified paper information is updated. The inspection device according to claim 1 .

11. When registering paper information, if the character string of the input paper name is similar to the character string of the paper name of the registered paper information, the inspection level associated with the paper information of the similar registered paper name is set to the inspection level of the paper information of the input paper name. The inspection device according to claim 1 .

12. When a standard inspection is instructed and an image forming job using paper with paper information having an inspection level higher than the standard inspection is selected, the operator is prompted to select whether or not to perform test printing on a page using paper with paper information having an inspection level higher than the standard inspection. The inspection device according to claim 1 .

13. An inspection device, an inspection means for reading the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means and detecting any abnormality in the formed image; When image formation and inspection are performed, paper information of the paper used is specified, and an inspection level for detecting abnormalities by the inspection means is determined based on the paper type of the paper information. Inspection equipment.

14. An image forming apparatus, an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet; a reading means for reading the paper on which an image is formed; a storage means for storing paper management information linking paper types with inspection levels; An inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 13; An image forming apparatus comprising:

15. 1. A testing method comprising: The inspection means reads the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means, and detects any abnormality in the formed image; the inspection means detects abnormalities based on paper management information in which inspection levels are linked to paper information and an inspection level determined based on the paper information of the paper on which the image is formed. Testing method.

16. The inspection equipment computer, The reading means reads the paper on which the image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means, and the reading means functions as an inspection means for detecting abnormalities in the formed image; the inspection means detects abnormalities based on paper management information in which inspection levels are linked to paper information and an inspection level determined based on the paper type of the paper on which the image is formed. Program for.

Images