Inspection device, control method for inspection device, and program

Abstract

To solve the following problem in which a result of data inspection fails unintentionally due to mismatch of page order since a result of reading a character string or a barcode from a printed product does not match the order of referred correct character strings when a correct image is inspected with different print settings (for example, a change of the order of paper discharge) which are different from registered print settings.SOLUTION: An inspection apparatus connectable with an image forming apparatus includes: extraction means configured to extract a character string from a designated area on a scanned image acquired by scanning a printed product with an image printed thereon based on a job; inspection means configured to inspect the printed product by comparing the character string extracted by the extraction unit with a correct value referred to from reference data; and acquisition means configured to acquire information about the job. The inspection means inspects the printed product, based on the acquired information about the job, by referring to the correct value from the reference data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an inspection apparatus, an inspection system, and an inspection method. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, inspection of printed materials has been performed manually, but in recent years, automatic inspection devices have been used as post-processing for printing presses. In such inspection devices, the correct image data is first registered. Next, the input image data is printed out on paper using an image forming device, and the data printed out on the paper is read by an image reading device configured inside the inspection device. An inspection PC capable of real-time processing is used to compare the image data read by the image reading device with the correct image data initially registered to detect abnormal images in the printed material. The inspection to detect abnormal images in the printed material is called print image inspection.

[0003] In addition to print image inspection, variable area inspections such as character strings and barcodes are also performed in variable printing. For example, there is a data readability inspection to check whether character strings and barcodes are readable, and a data verification inspection to verify the results of reading character strings and barcodes with the correct character string referenced from the variable data. These data readability inspections and data verification inspections are referred to as data inspections.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, data is assigned from a database to variable areas where the printed content can be changed, and a technology is proposed for performing inspection by comparing the data extracted from the variable areas in the scanned image with the database. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-233820 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, with the method of Patent Document 1, if an inspection is attempted using print settings (for example, changing the paper output order) that differ from the print settings in which the correct image was registered, the results of reading the character strings or barcodes from the printed material will no longer correspond to the order of the referenced correct character strings. As a result, the data inspection result will unintentionally be NG due to the difference in page order. Therefore, when performing data inspection by specifying any page or changing the order, it is necessary to simultaneously change the referenced correct character strings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention is an inspection device connectable to an image forming device, comprising: an extraction means for extracting a character string from a specified area on a scanned image obtained by scanning a printed matter on which an image is printed based on a job; an inspection means for inspecting the printed matter by comparing the character string extracted by the extraction means with a correct value referenced from reference data; and an acquisition means for acquiring information about the job, wherein the inspection means inspects the printed matter by referencing the correct value from the reference data based on the acquired information about the job. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the page to be printed is identified based on the print page settings at the time of inspection, and the correct answer character string of the reference data is changed, thereby making it possible to inspect data that matches the correct answer character string. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an inspection system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram of a registration process of a correct image and an inspection setting in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Sequence diagram of inspection processing in embodiment 1 [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a process for extracting a correct image and variable data corresponding to a print page according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of a UI screen for print settings for registering a correct image according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of a UI screen for inputting inspection settings in this embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is an example of a UI screen related to print settings during inspection in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Example of variable data configuration in this embodiment [Figure 10] Example of inspection data structure when inspection is set in this embodiment [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of a registration process of a correct image and an inspection setting in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Sequence diagram of inspection processing in embodiment 2 [Figure 13] 10 is an example of a UI screen related to print settings during inspection in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the components described in these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0011] (First embodiment) 1 is a diagram showing the overall system configuration including an inspection device (inspection device) according to an embodiment of the present invention. This system is composed of an image forming device 100, an inspection PC 110, a client PC 120, a printer server 130, a network 140, and a communication cable 150. Note that in this embodiment, the inspection device is a general term for the inspection PC 110, the combination of the inspection PC 110 and the inspection unit 102, or the combination of the image forming device 100 and the inspection PC 110.

[0012] The image forming apparatus 100 produces print output based on various input data, for example, manuscript data sent from a client PC 120 or a printer server 130. The image forming apparatus 100 is equipped with an image processing unit 101, an inspection unit 102, and a finisher 103, and is connected to the image processing unit 101, the inspection unit 102, and the finisher 103 via a communication cable, which is an internal bus.

[0013] The image processing unit 101 performs image processing in accordance with print settings based on various input data, and outputs the processed image as a printout on a recording sheet.

[0014] The inspection unit 102 receives the printed matter output from the image processing unit 101 and obtains a read image (scanned image) by scanning and reading the printed matter. The obtained read image is image data used to inspect the inspection PC for any abnormal images. Here, an abnormal image refers to an image that reduces the quality of the printed matter. For example, this refers to a round abnormal image (dot) that occurs when coloring material adheres to an unintended location during printing, or a color loss or linear abnormal image (streak) that occurs when sufficient coloring material does not adhere to an intended location. The obtained image data is then transferred via a communication cable 150 to the inspection PC 110 (described later), where the inspection PC 110 inspects the printed matter for any abnormal images. The inspection unit 102 then obtains the inspection results from the inspection PC 110.

[0015] The finisher 103 receives the output paper inspected by the inspection unit 102, and switches the paper discharge destination based on the inspection results of the inspection PC 110, and performs post-processing (bookbinding, etc.) as necessary.

[0016] Image forming apparatus 100 is connected to inspection PC 110, client PC 120, and printer server 130 via network 140. Then, image forming apparatus 100 is connected to inspection PC 110 via communication cable 150, and communicates image data and inspection results when performing inspection. In this embodiment, inspection is performed by inspection PC 110, but this is not limited to this embodiment, and a configuration such as an in-line inspection machine that performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge in an integrated manner may also be used. Note that the detailed configuration of image forming apparatus 100 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0017] The inspection PC 110 is a PC for inspecting images read from printed materials using the inspection unit 102, and includes a device control unit 111 and a user interface 118 (hereinafter referred to as a UI unit). Furthermore, the device control unit 111 is configured from a controller board, and a CPU 112, RAM 113, ROM 114, communication I / F unit 115, storage unit 116, inspection processing unit 117, and image processing unit 119 are implemented on the device control unit. In this embodiment, communication between the modules is performed via an internal system bus (not shown).

[0018] The CPU 112 reads the main program from the memory unit 116 in accordance with the initial program stored therein and stores it in the RAM 113. The RAM 113 is used as a main memory for storing programs and for use as a work area. The ROM 114 is used to temporarily store data created during program processing. The communication I / F unit 115 is used for communication via the network 140 or the communication cable 150. The memory unit 116 is used to store large amounts of data, such as program data and image data. The inspection processing unit 117 calculates a difference value between the correct image stored in the RAM 113 as the correct image and the scanned image to be inspected, in order to inspect whether the image data acquired by the inspection unit 102 contains abnormal images such as stains or color loss. Next, the inspection processing unit 117 performs inspection by comparing the calculated difference value with the inspection thresholds (contrast and size) for each inspection item, pixel by pixel. The inspection results are stored in RAM 113, and include, for example, information on whether or not there is an abnormal image in the printed matter, and position information of the abnormal image when the type of detected abnormal image (such as a dot or streak) is displayed on UI section 118. The inspection results are then transmitted to inspection unit 102 via communication cable 150.

[0019] The image processing unit 119 performs image processing to convert the image data into a resolution optimal for inspection.

[0020] The UI unit 118 is configured by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is a device that allows various setting values or designated values to be input.

[0021] The client PC 120 is a PC that connects to the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 and accepts operations from the user, and includes a device control unit 121 and a UI unit 128. Furthermore, the device control unit 121 is configured from a controller board, and a CPU 122, RAM 123, ROM 124, a communication I / F unit 125, and a storage unit 126 are implemented on the device control unit. Note that the roles of each device inside the client PC 120 are the same as those of the inspection PC 110, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0022] The printer server 130 is a server that performs RIP processing to print manuscript data and document data. It also controls printing by the image forming device 110 and manages print jobs, and is equipped with a device control unit 131 and a user interface 138. The device control unit 131 is further configured from a controller board, and a CPU 132, RAM 133, ROM 134, communication I / F unit 135, storage unit 136, and image processing unit 137 are mounted on the device control unit. Note that the roles of each device within the printer server 130 are the same as those of the client PC 120, except for the image processing unit 137, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0023] The image processing unit 137 performs RIP processing on the manuscript data or document data sent from the client PC 120 in order to print it according to the print settings, and converts it into bitmapped image data. Specifically, the RIP processing for printing is processing for generating an image without reducing the resolution of 600 dpi.

[0024] The above is a description of the overall system configuration including the inspection device in the embodiment of the present invention. Note that the image forming device 100, inspection PC 110, client PC 120, and printer server 130 can communicate with each other via the network 140. This is not limited to the present embodiment, and may also be realized in a form in which each device is connected to another device via a network.

[0025] [Image forming device configuration] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.

[0026] The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image processing unit 101, an inspection unit 102, and a finisher 103.

[0027] The image processing unit 101 further includes a device control unit 200, a printer unit 210, a scanner unit 220, a user interface unit (UI unit) 230, and a paper feed unit 250.

[0028] The device control unit 200 receives images and documents from the network 140 and converts them into print data. The device control unit 200 is equipped with a CPU 201, RAM 202, storage unit 203, communication I / F unit 204, ROM 205, and image processing unit 206. The role of each device is the same as that of the printer server 130, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0029] The image processing unit 206 acquires the PDL data stored in the RAM 202 and performs image processing to convert it into print data. The image processing to convert it into print data involves, for example, converting the PDL data into multi-value bitmap data by performing RIP processing on the PDL data, and then converting it into binary bitmap data by performing pseudo-halftoning processing such as screen processing. The binary bitmap data obtained by the image processing unit 206 is sent to the printer unit 210 via the communication I / F unit 204.

[0030] The printer unit 210 conveys paper (recording sheets, recording media) from the paper feed unit 250, receives binary bitmap data generated by the device control unit 200, and prints the data on the paper using color materials. At this time, the printer unit 210 issues instructions based on print settings specified by the user. For example, in the case of a print setting using coated paper, the CPU 211 issues an instruction to print using a paper cassette (not shown) in the paper feed unit 250 that stores coated paper. The device control unit 200 and the printer unit 210 control various processes from receiving the PDL data to printing on the paper, thereby forming a full-color toner image on the paper. The printer unit 210 is equipped with a CPU 211, a RAM 212, a communication I / F unit 214, and a ROM 215. The roles of each device are the same as those of the device control unit 200, and therefore, a description thereof will be omitted.

[0031] The scanner unit 220 is a device that illuminates an original image with a light source (not shown), and obtains a read signal obtained from a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or the like, which captures the original image through a lens, as multi-value image data in red, green, and blue.

[0032] The UI unit 230 is configured by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is a device that allows various setting values or designated values to be input.

[0033] The paper feed unit 250 has one or more cassettes for setting paper to be printed, and is a device for feeding paper from a cassette corresponding to the paper size specified in the print settings and transporting it to the printer unit 210.

[0034] The inspection unit 102 includes a device control unit 260 and an image reading unit 270 .

[0035] The image reading unit 270 is an image reading unit that reads a printed matter conveyed from the image processing unit 101. It is a device that illuminates a printed matter, i.e., an original document, with a light source (not shown), and obtains read information obtained from a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) using a 1:1 magnification combined lens as multi-value image data of red, green, and blue. The image reading unit 270 in this embodiment is not limited to a CIS sensor, and may also obtain image data using a CCD sensor.

[0036] The device control unit 260 controls the transfer of image data acquired by the image reading unit 270 to the inspection PC 110 (described later) via the communication cable 150. The transferred image data is then inspected on the inspection PC 110 to determine whether or not there are any abnormal images in the printed matter, and the inspection results are acquired from the inspection PC 110 and transmitted to the finisher 103. The device control unit 260 is equipped with a CPU 261, RAM 262, communication I / F unit 264, and ROM 265. The roles of each device are the same as those of the device control unit 200, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0037] The finisher 103 includes a device control unit 280 and a paper discharge unit 290 .

[0038] The device control unit 280 takes into consideration the print settings and the inspection results and determines the paper discharge control to be performed by the paper discharge unit 290. The device control unit 280 is equipped with a CPU 281, RAM 282, a communication I / F unit 284, and ROM 285. The role of each device is the same as that of the device control unit 200, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0039] The paper discharge unit 290 is a device for switching the discharge destination of printed materials conveyed from the inspection unit 102 based on post-processing (for example, bookbinding) and inspection results according to print settings. For example, when switching the discharge destination of printed materials depending on whether or not there is an abnormal image, the finisher 103 uses the inspection results received from the inspection unit 102 to discharge printed materials without abnormal images to a normal discharge tray, and discharge printed materials with abnormal images to a tray other than the normal discharge tray.

[0040] The above is a description of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and any configuration can be used as long as it is possible to print original data and read images to inspect whether or not there are any abnormal images in the printed matter.

[0041] [Inspection system correct image processing flow] 3 is a diagram showing a processing flow for a user to register a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in the inspection system. In this flow, a printed matter on which manuscript data is printed is scanned by the image reading unit 270, and the acquired read image is registered as correct image data. By executing this flow, the registration work of the correct image and inspection settings performed before inspecting the printed matter is completed.

[0042] 3, the client PC 120, the printer server 130, the inspection PC 110, and the image forming apparatus 100 execute the processes described below in response to instructions from the user. The client PC 120 executes the processes in response to an instruction from the user to start registering a correct image.

[0043] At this time, the processing of the inspection PC 110 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 via the CPU 112. The processing of the client PC 120 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 126 into the RAM 123 and controlling the device control unit 121 via the CPU 122. The processing of the printer server 130 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 136 into the RAM 133 and controlling the device control unit 131 via the CPU 132. The processing of the image forming apparatus 100 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 203 into the RAM 202 and controlling the device control unit 200 via the CPU 201.

[0044] First, in SQ301, the client PC 120 receives from the user an instruction for print settings for generating a correct image to be used during inspection.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for setting information related to print settings for a correct image.

[0046] The UI 600 in FIG. 6 is used to input print settings related to the inspection process, and is a UI screen displayed on the UI unit 128 of the client PC 120.

[0047] First, a list box 601 is a list box selected by the user when setting the paper size to be used for printing and inspection. In this embodiment, the paper that can be selected is a standard size paper within the range of paper sizes that can be printed by the image forming apparatus 100, and a non-standard size paper that can be specified by the user. When a non-standard size paper is selected, the vertical and horizontal sizes are to be input separately.

[0048] Next, a radio button 602 is a radio button that is pressed by the user to select either double-sided or single-sided printing.

[0049] Next, text box 603 is a text box where the user inputs the total number of pages of the manuscript data. The number set in text box 603 is used as the number of pages to be printed, and the processing of SQ324 to SQ328, which will be described later, is repeated.

[0050] Button 604 is a button that the user presses when all print settings related to the registration of the correct image are completed and the user wants to save the settings they have set. Button 605 is a button that the user presses when the user wants to interrupt the settings related to the registration of the correct image. When the user presses button 605, the information being set is discarded and the flow for registering the correct image ends.

[0051] The above is a description of the UI for setting print settings related to registration of a correct image in this embodiment.

[0052] Next, in SQ302, the client PC 120 commands the inspection PC 110 to prepare the image reading unit 270 for scanning based on the print settings set in SQ301 in order to generate a scanned image to be registered as a correct image.

[0053] Next, in SQ303, the inspection PC 110 saves the print settings for the correct image notified in SQ302.

[0054] Next, in SQ314, the inspection PC 110 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to prepare the image reading unit 270 for scanning.

[0055] Next, in SQ315, the image forming apparatus 100 checks the device status of the image reading unit 270 and transitions to a scan waiting state.

[0056] Next, in SQ316, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the inspection PC 110 that the image reading unit 270 is in a scan waiting state.

[0057] Next, in SQ317, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that the image reading unit 270 is in a scan waiting state and that preparations for generating a correct image are complete.

[0058] Next, in SQ320, the client PC 120, triggered by the notification received in SQ317, commands the printer server 130 to execute processing for registering the correct image. In this embodiment, the document data is sent from the client PC 120 to the printer server 130 along with the correct image registration command. The document data received by the printer server 130 here becomes the source data for the RIP processing described below.

[0059] Next, in SQ321, the printer server 130 saves the settings for RIP processing based on the print settings set in SQ301.

[0060] Next, in SQ322, the printer server 130 performs RIP processing on the document data page by page based on the print settings saved in SQ321, and generates RIP data.

[0061] Next, in SQ323, the printer server 130 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to print the RIP data RIP-processed in SQ322. At this time, the printer server 130 sends print settings to the image forming apparatus 100.

[0062] Next, in SQ324, the printer unit 210 in the image forming apparatus 100 prints one page at a time according to the RIP data received in SQ323 and the print settings specified by the user.

[0063] Next, in SQ325, the device control unit 260 in the image forming device 100 uses the image reading unit 270 to obtain scanned image data obtained by reading the printed matter printed in SQ324.

[0064] Next, in SQ326, the image forming apparatus 100 transmits the scanned image data read in SQ325 to the inspection PC 110 via the communication cable 150.

[0065] Next, in SQ327, the inspection PC 110 saves the scanned image data sent in SQ326.

[0066] Next, in SQ328, the inspection PC 110 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication cable 150 that the storage of the scanned image data read in SQ325 has been completed. Note that the processes from SQ324 to SQ308 are repeated for each print page of the manuscript data.

[0067] Next, in step SQ329, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the printer server 130 that printing of the series of document data up to SQ328 and saving of the scanned correct image data has been completed.

[0068] Next, in step SQ330, the printer server 130 notifies the client PC 120 that printing of the series of document data up to SQ328 and saving of the scanned correct image data have been completed.

[0069] Next, in SQ340, the client PC 120 instructs the inspection PC 110 to set up inspection settings for performing inspection.

[0070] Next, in SQ341, the inspection PC 110 sets various inspection parameters such as the inspection area, inspection level, etc. in accordance with the user's inspection settings. Note that a detailed UI for setting the inspection in SQ341 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0071] Next, in SQ342, the inspection PC 110 completes the inspection settings made in SQ341, saves various inspection parameters such as the inspection area and inspection level, and prepares for inspection.

[0072] Next, in SQ343, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that the inspection settings have been completed, thereby notifying the user that the series of operations of registering the correct image and the inspection settings has been completed.

[0073] The above is a description of the processing flow for registering a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in this embodiment.

[0074] Next, an example of a UI for test settings will be described with reference to FIG.

[0075] The UI screen 700 in FIG. 7 is a UI screen that is displayed on the UI unit 118 of the inspection PC 110 at the timing of setting up the inspection for the SQ340 inspection.

[0076] The page preview 740 is a display screen that displays the scanned image read by the SQ325 as the correct image.

[0077] Button 702 is a button that is pressed by the user when setting a data inspection area. The method for setting a data inspection area in this embodiment is as follows: First, the user presses button 702 to set a data inspection area. Then, by specifying an area in which data inspection is to be performed in page preview 740 through user operation, the inspection PC 110 sets the corresponding specified range on the scanned image as data inspection area 741 and data inspection area 742. The data inspection area is an inspection area that is a specified area in which the type of set data (character string or barcode) is read and judged for authenticity.

[0078] Button 703 is a button that is pressed by the user when setting the area for print image inspection. The method for setting the area for print image inspection in this embodiment is as follows: First, the user presses button 703 to set the area for print image inspection. Then, the user specifies the area for print image inspection in page preview 740, and the inspection PC 110 sets the corresponding specified range as print image inspection area 743. The print image inspection area is an inspection area for detecting abnormal images in the picture portion of the printed matter.

[0079] A button 704 is a button for rotating the image displayed in the page preview 740 .

[0080] A button 705 is an inspection area selection button, which is pressed by the user when the user wishes to change the setting information of an area that has already been set.

[0081] The UI 710 is a group of UIs for setting the level of abnormal images to be detected when inspecting printed images.

[0082] UI 711 is a UI for setting the detection items and their detection levels for detecting abnormal images in print image inspection. Detection items in print image inspection are items related to the characteristics of abnormal images that you want to detect when inspecting printed materials, such as round abnormal images (dots) or linear abnormal images (streaks). The detection level is a parameter set in stages to determine the size of each feature of a detected abnormal image before it is determined to be an abnormal image. For example, there are five levels, from level 1 to level 5, with level 5 being able to detect thinner and smaller abnormal images than level 1. In addition, levels can be set for each inspection item, such as inspection level 5 for dots and level 4 for streaks. UI 711 shows that the user has selected level 4 for the inspection level setting for abnormal images (dots) and level 4 for the inspection level setting for abnormal images (streaks).

[0083] UI 720 is a group of UIs for setting the data file to be referenced when comparing detected data with the data file, the type of data inspection, and detailed information about the data inspection. The data inspection area is an inspection area where the set data type (character string or barcode) is read and judged to be correct or incorrect.

[0084] The UI 721 is a UI for setting, by file selection, a variable data file to be used as the correct character information when determining whether data is correct or incorrect in the data inspection.

[0085] In this embodiment, variable data (reference data) refers to a reference CSV file for data inspection, which is used as a reference for data inspection to be compared as a correct answer when performing data inspection. The reference CSV file is a file that lists correct strings for string inspection and barcode inspection, separated by commas. The reference CSV file is used as data to be input into the variable area when generating manuscript data for variable printing. Because the manuscript data is generated with reference to the reference CSV file, the data order is consistent. Therefore, when performing data inspection, it is possible to compare the string inspection area and barcode read results with the correct strings listed in the reference CSV file. If the printing order of the manuscript data is changed, the data order in the reference CSV file will no longer match, making it impossible to compare the correct strings listed in the reference CSV file. Furthermore, UI 721 in Figure 7 indicates that data with the file name abc.csv is selected as the data for comparison inspection. The CSV file is assumed to be stored in advance in the storage unit 116.

[0086] An example of a CSV file will be described with reference to FIG. 9. Variable printing using variable data is a method for printing different addresses, names, etc. for each customer, for example, when sending direct mail. Variable data refers to variable data that changes the address, name, etc. for each customer. In other words, the area where the address and name are printed is the variable area (variable area), and the printed content of the variable area changes with each page of the printed material. In FIG. 9(a), each line shows data for each customer, and each column contains the serial number and member ID. In other words, the character string written on the first page is written on the first line, and the character string written on the second page is written on the second line. Furthermore, a label may be written on the first line to improve readability for users handling CSV files. If a label is written on the first line, that line is skipped. In this embodiment, customer data is printed on each sheet, and the customer data in the next line of the CSV file is read each time a sheet is printed. Also, a CSV file must be prepared for each print data, but there are cases where printing is performed by replacing only the image portion of the template. In that case, the same CSV file can be used.

[0087] Although data in a CSV file is separated by commas, when using an existing spreadsheet application, it is assumed that the data is displayed in a table-like format. When viewing a CSV file using a text editor rather than a spreadsheet application, the data is displayed with commas separating the data, resulting in a data format such as that shown in FIG. 9(c). In this embodiment, the reference number and correct value are displayed on a single line, but the reference number may be expressed by combining a page number, an area number, or the like. If there are multiple variable areas on a page, multiple correct values may be entered on a single line. For example, if there are correct values corresponding to the data inspection areas 741 and 742 in FIG. 7, a column may be added to the right of FIG. 9(a) and the correct values may also be entered there.

[0088] Next, UI 722 is a UI for setting the type of character string inspection or barcode inspection selected by the user using a radio button method or a pull-down method.

[0089] In this embodiment, the type of character string refers to a set of font data that associates character glyph images with character codes for character recognition (OCR). It is necessary to save the font data set in advance. This may be done by printing character glyph images and performing a registration process to associate them with character codes, or by saving a corresponding font data set in advance as shipped. The UI 722 in Figure 7 indicates that OCRB12pt is selected as the glyph font for the selected character string inspection. It is assumed that the data inspection area 741 is set for character string inspection, and that OCRB12pt is selected as specified in the UI 722.

[0090] In this embodiment, the barcode type refers to the barcode standard supported by the data inspection. For example, one-dimensional barcodes such as CODE39 and JAN, and two-dimensional codes such as QR Code (registered trademark) and DataMatrix code can be selected in UI 722 if they are standards supported by the data inspection. In this embodiment, barcodes and QR codes are collectively referred to as code images. In UI 722 of FIG. 7, it is shown that CODE39 is selected as the barcode inspection. It is assumed that the data inspection area 742 is set up for barcode inspection, and that CODE39 is selected.

[0091] The UI 723 is a UI for setting the direction in which character strings and barcodes are read when performing a data inspection in accordance with the user's inspection settings, and is made up of direction setting buttons 724 to 727.

[0092] The direction setting buttons 724 to 727 correspond to 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° in 90-degree increments clockwise from the paper transport direction. In this embodiment, the paper is transported from right to left as viewed from the page preview 740 in FIG. 7. Therefore, the direction setting button 724, in which the orientation of the paper transport direction and the character orientation correspond, has an angle setting of 0°. Since the paper is rotated clockwise in 90-degree increments relative to the transport direction, the angle setting corresponding to the direction setting button 725 is 90°, the angle setting corresponding to the direction setting button 726 is 180°, and the angle setting corresponding to the direction setting button 727 is 270°. The direction setting buttons 724 to 727 are set to correspond to the angle at which the character string or barcode displayed in the page preview 740 is displayed. In this embodiment, the direction setting buttons 724 to 727 are used to set the direction in which the character string or barcode is read, but this is not limited to this embodiment and a UI that can set the direction (for example, radio buttons) may also be used.

[0093] UI 728 is a UI that uses checkboxes and text boxes to set whether or not to perform a comparison check between the correct string in the CSV file set in UI 721 and the read string when performing a data inspection, according to the user's inspection settings. The check button determines whether or not to perform the comparison check. If the checkbox is checked, the value entered in the text box determines which column in the CSV file to reference as the correct string. The input value accepted in the text box is an integer greater than or equal to 1. If the CSV file is read in advance, the maximum number of columns may be set as the upper limit. While the number of columns to reference is specified using a text box in this embodiment, a drop-down UI may also be used, in which the first row of variable data is read in advance and the first row is used as the label value. This embodiment is not limited to this embodiment, and any method for specifying the number of columns to reference from the CSV file may be used.

[0094] If the check box is not checked, the verification is not performed. In this case, the text box to be referenced as the correct answer string may be grayed out so that input cannot be made.

[0095] Button 729 is a button for completing all test settings and executing the test. Button 730 is a button for interrupting the test settings, and when the user presses button 730, the information being set is discarded and the test settings are terminated.

[0096] FIG. 10 shows an example of setting values that are held as the examination settings after the examination settings have been completed according to the user's operations.

[0097] For each set inspection area, a reference column for the area ID, type of inspection, decoding method, angle, and verification inspection is maintained.

[0098] The area ID is a unique ID assigned to each inspection area for data inspection or print image inspection set by button 702 or button 703 .

[0099] The type of inspection is used to set the corresponding inspection type such as print image inspection, character string inspection, or barcode inspection.

[0100] The decoding method is used to set the type of decoding to be performed when decoding a scanned image into a character string when performing a data inspection (character string inspection, barcode inspection), and saves the setting value of UI 722. In this embodiment, in the case of print image inspection, no setting is required, so "-" is entered.

[0101] The angle is used to set the direction in which a character string or barcode is read when performing a data inspection (character string inspection, barcode inspection), and saves the setting value of the button selected in UI 723. In this embodiment, in the case of print image inspection, no setting is required, so "-" is entered.

[0102] The reference column for the verification test is used to set the number of columns in the CSV file to be referenced when a verification test is performed in a data test (character string test, barcode test), and saves the value entered in UI 728. In this embodiment, in the case of a print image test or when a verification test is not performed even in a data test, no setting is required, so "-" is entered.

[0103] The above is a description of the UI for setting the inspection settings for the inspection process in this embodiment. Note that even after the inspection settings in Fig. 7 are completed, adjustments can be made again by the user.

[0104] [Inspection system inspection execution flow] Figure 4 shows a processing flow for a user to print on the image forming device 100 via the printer server 130 and then inspect the printed matter using the inspection PC 110 to determine whether there are any abnormal images in the printed matter according to the inspection settings set in Figure 3.

[0105] 4, the client PC 120, the printer server 130, the inspection PC 110, and the image forming apparatus 100 execute the processes described below in response to commands from the user. The client PC 120 executes these processes in response to commands from the user pressing the execution buttons for printing and inspection.

[0106] At this time, the processing of the inspection PC 110 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 via the CPU 112. The processing of the client PC 120 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 126 into the RAM 123 and controlling the device control unit 121 via the CPU 122. The processing of the printer server 130 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 136 into the RAM 133 and controlling the device control unit 131 via the CPU 132. The processing of the image forming apparatus 100 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 203 into the RAM 202 and controlling the device control unit 200 via the CPU 201.

[0107] First, in SQ401, the client PC 120 performs print settings to command the image forming apparatus 100 when printing and inspection are performed, in accordance with instructions from the user.

[0108] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for setting information related to print settings at the time of inspection.

[0109] The UI 800 in FIG. 8 is used to input print settings related to the inspection process, and is a UI screen displayed on the UI unit 128 of the client PC 120.

[0110] First, label 801 is a label for displaying the paper size set during inspection setup. In this embodiment, the paper size set during inspection setup cannot be changed, so it is displayed as a label rather than a list box so that selection and setting changes cannot be made.

[0111] Next, text box 802 is a text box for displaying the number of sheets per copy set during inspection setup. In this embodiment, the number of sheets per copy set during inspection setup is the value entered in text box 603 and cannot be changed. Therefore, operation of the text box 802 is disabled so that selection and setting changes cannot be made.

[0112] Next, a text box 803 is a text box for inputting the number of copies of the print to be inspected to be printed.

[0113] Next, UI 804 is a group of UIs for setting the pages to be printed, selected by the user using radio buttons and text boxes. The patterns of pages to be printed that can be selected using the radio buttons include "All," "Current Page," "Specify Page," "Even Pages," and "Odd Pages."

[0114] "All" is a radio button that is selected when all pages of the manuscript data are to be printed.

[0115] "Current Page" is a radio button that is selected when manuscript data is displayed in some application and only the displayed page is to be printed.

[0116] "Page Designation" is a radio button that is selected when the user sets the pages to be printed among the original pages. When page designation is set, the range of pages to be printed that is to be set is entered in the text box. At this time, delimiters may be used as a method for specifying pages. For example, in this embodiment, a comma (,") is used to separate pages, and a hyphen (-) is used to specify a page range. In the case of 4-9 written in the text box of UI804, it is set to print pages 4 through 9.

[0117] "Even Pages" is a radio button that is selected when even pages of the manuscript data are to be printed.

[0118] "Odd Pages" is a radio button that is selected when even pages of the manuscript data are to be printed.

[0119] This is not limited to the present embodiment, and any other method for specifying pages to be printed may be used.

[0120] Next, radio button 805 is a radio button for setting the printing order when printing the manuscript data. When normal order is selected, pages are printed in ascending order starting from the first page, and when reverse order is selected, pages are printed in descending order starting from the last page.

[0121] Button 806 is a button for completing all print settings and executing printing and inspection. Button 807 is a button for interrupting print settings, and when the user presses button 807, the information being set is discarded and printing and inspection are terminated.

[0122] The above is a description of the UI for setting information related to print settings at the time of inspection in this embodiment.

[0123] Note that if "page specification" is selected in UI 804, the setting value may be automatically input. For example, there is a job to resume an inspection job in which printing / inspection was interrupted due to a malfunction of the image forming device or the like. The total number of printed sheets, which is the sum of the set number of sheets per sheet and the number of copies printed, is compared with the number of inspected sheets. If the number of inspected sheets is less, it is possible that the printing / inspection job has been interrupted. In this case, since it is possible that the inspection job has been resumed, it is acceptable to input the page range from the interrupted page to the final page in advance. Furthermore, if there are no changes from the automatically input values, a pop-up display (not shown) may be configured to notify the user.

[0124] Next, in SQ402, the client PC 120 issues an inspection preparation command to the inspection PC 110. Note that the inspection settings used for the inspection set in SQ341 and the print settings set in SQ401 are used.

[0125] Next, in SQ403, the inspection PC 110 acquires the correct image acquired in SQ327.

[0126] Next, in SQ404, if a data inspection involving a matching inspection is set in the inspection settings set in SQ341, the inspection PC 110 acquires the set variable data.

[0127] Next, in SQ405, the inspection PC 110 uses the settings for pages to be printed set in SQ401 to identify the specific pages to be printed and the printing order. For example, if all pages are set to be printed in reverse order, the order is set to descending order from the last page, and if the page specification is set to "1-10" as the normal order, the order is set to ascending order from page 1 to page 10.

[0128] Next, in SQ406, the inspection PC 110 extracts the correct images corresponding to the print pages identified in SQ405 and rearranges them in the printing order.

[0129] Next, in SQ407, the inspection PC 110 extracts the variable data corresponding to the print pages identified in SQ405 and rearranges them in print order. For example, if there are 13 pages of variable data as shown in FIG. 9(a), and the page specification is set to "4-9" in reverse order, six pages are extracted, starting with the data on the ninth line, which is the data on the ninth page. Thus, the rearranged and re-edited data is completed as shown in FIG. 9(b). The re-edited data then has the data format shown in FIG. 9(d). Note that in this embodiment, the extracted variable data is temporarily stored in the storage unit 116 and processed without being saved as a file, but it may also be saved as a file to leave evidence of the inspection. In this embodiment, the rearranged data is described as actually existing as a separate re-edited file, but it may also be configured to reference the correct values from the variable data in the page specification order.

[0130] Next, in SQ408, the inspection PC 110 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to notify whether the device is in a state where printing and inspection are possible.

[0131] Next, in SQ409, the image forming apparatus 100 acquires the status of the image processing unit 101, the inspection unit 102, and the finisher 103 to determine whether they are in a usable state, and determines whether they are in a state where printing and inspection are possible.

[0132] Next, in SQ410, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the inspection PC 110 whether printing and inspection are possible as determined in SQ409.

[0133] Next, in SQ411, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that it is ready to execute inspection, based on the printing and inspection status notified in SQ409.

[0134] Next, in SQ420, client PC 120 commands printer server 130 to print using the document data and print settings specified by the user.

[0135] Next, in SQ421, the printer server 130 performs RIP processing using the manuscript data transmitted in SQ420 and the print settings specified by the user. In this embodiment, the manuscript data is RIP processed before the processing from SQ422 onward. In this embodiment, manuscript data refers to manuscript data compatible with variable printing. The variable area refers to a reference CSV file and is print data composed of a variable area that switches to text, barcodes, images, etc. in accordance with the referenced data, and a fixed area that uses template images and drawing data.

[0136] Next, in SQ422, the printer server 130 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to print using the RIP data generated in SQ421 and the print settings specified by the user.

[0137] Next, in SQ423, the printer unit 210 in the image forming apparatus 100 prints one page at a time in accordance with the RIP data received in SQ422 and the print settings specified by the user.

[0138] Next, in SQ424, the device control unit 260 in the image forming device 100 uses the image reading unit 270 to obtain scanned image data obtained by reading the printed matter printed in SQ423.

[0139] Next, in SQ425, the image forming apparatus 100 transmits the scanned image data read in SQ424 to the inspection PC 110 via the communication cable 150.

[0140] Next, in SQ426, the inspection PC 110 performs an image inspection using the scanned image data received in SQ425 and the correct image and variable data extracted in SQ406 and SQ407. In addition to the image inspection, the inspection PC 110 also checks whether the scanned image data contains any abnormal images, extracts a data inspection area from the scanned image data, decodes it into text according to the inspection settings, and compares the read text with reference data. In this process, the inspection PC 110 saves not only information on whether the printed material contains any abnormal images, but also the type of abnormal image detected (such as a dot or streak), a scanned image of the area surrounding the area where the abnormality was detected, or the entire page. The inspection PC 110 also saves the results of comparing the read text in the data inspection area with the reference data.

[0141] Next, in SQ427, the inspection PC 110 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication cable 150 of the inspection result of SQ416.

[0142] Next, in SQ428, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the paper output destination of the finisher 103 based on the inspection results received in SQ427. For example, printed materials in which no abnormal images were detected are output to a tray of the finisher specified by the user, and printed materials in which an abnormal image was detected are output to a tray for abnormal images. Also, not limited to this embodiment, when an abnormal image is detected, reprinting may be performed automatically to recover from the abnormal image. By reprinting each time an abnormal image is detected, a set of printed materials output to the tray of the finisher that is free of abnormal images is completed.

[0143] If printing of all pages of the manuscript data has not been completed, the printing and inspection steps SQ423 to SQ428 are repeated until all pages have been printed.

[0144] Next, in SQ429, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the printer server 130 that printing and inspection of all pages of the document data has been completed.

[0145] Next, in SQ430, the printer server 130 notifies the client PC 120 that printing and inspection of all pages of the manuscript data has been completed, thereby notifying the user that printing and inspection has been completed.

[0146] The above is an explanation of the processing flow for printing using the image forming device 100 via the printer server 130 and inspecting the printed matter for abnormal images using the inspection PC 110 in accordance with the inspection settings set in Figure 3.

[0147] A detailed flow of the process from SQ403 to SQ410 in this embodiment, which extracts the correct image and variable data corresponding to the print page order determined from the print settings, will be described using Figure 5. By executing this process, the pages to be printed and their order are determined from the print page designation and print order settings in the print settings, and the correct image and variable data corresponding to the determined contents are extracted, making it possible to inspect the print pages and variable data in a consistent manner. The process of the inspection PC 110 is executed by expanding the program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 by the CPU 112.

[0148] First, in step S501, the inspection PC 110 acquires the correct image saved in step S327. The process in step S501 is the same as that in step S403.

[0149] Next, in step S502, if a data inspection involving a matching inspection is set in the inspection settings set in SQ341, the inspection PC 110 acquires the set variable data. Note that the processing in step S502 is the same as the processing in SQ404.

[0150] Next, in step S503, the inspection PC 110 determines whether the settings for print pages and print order in the inspection settings acquired in step S502 have been changed from their initial values. If they have not been changed from their initial values, there is no need to extract the correct image and variable data, so in step S511 the inspection PC 110 issues a command to notify whether the device is in a state where printing and inspection are possible. Note that the processing in step S511 is the same as that in SQ409. Furthermore, the initial values for print pages and print order in this embodiment are "all" for print pages and "normal order" for print order.

[0151] If the initial settings have been changed in step S503, the correct image and variable data must be extracted, and it must be determined whether the pages to be printed conform to certain rules. For example, if the settings conform to rules, such as even-numbered pages, the pages to be printed can be identified. However, if the page designation can be freely set by the user, the pages to be printed do not conform to rules, and therefore the pages to be printed must be identified. Therefore, in step S504, the inspection PC 110 determines whether the print page setting value is other than a page designation. If the print page setting value is other than a page designation, in step S505, the inspection PC 110 identifies the pages to be printed based on the print page setting value entered in the UI 804. For example, if the current page is set, only the page corresponding to the displayed page number is extracted; if an even-numbered page is set, only even-numbered pages are extracted; and similarly, if an odd-numbered page is set, only odd-numbered pages are extracted.

[0152] If the print page setting value in step S504 is a page specification, in step S506, the inspection PC 110 performs character string analysis on the setting value entered in the page specification text box to identify the pages to be printed. In this embodiment, character string analysis involves first performing lexical analysis to distinguish between numbers and symbols to determine whether the string contains a number or a symbol. Next, if the symbol is a "-" symbol, it indicates the print range, resulting in a start page, symbol, and end page. The numbers before and after the "-" symbol then identify the page range, which is interpreted as pages 1 to 10. Furthermore, if the symbol is a "," symbol, it indicates a page separator, so even if numbers are entered before and after it, the page range is not applied. For example, if "3,6" is entered, it is interpreted as printing pages 3 and 6.

[0153] This is not limited to the present embodiment, and any general method may be used as long as it is a method for identifying the print page from the input value of the page specification.

[0154] Next, in step S505, the inspection PC 110 identifies the pages to be printed based on the analysis results of step S506.

[0155] Next, in step S508, the inspection PC 110 determines the page order to be printed based on the print order setting value. For example, if the print page setting value is "1-6" in page specification and the print order is reverse order, the page order to be printed will be 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

[0156] By carrying out the processes from step S504 to step S508, the process for specifying the print pages and the order in the process of SQ405 is executed.

[0157] Next, in step S509, the inspection PC 110 extracts the correct images corresponding to the print pages identified in step S505 or step S507, and rearranges them in the printing order. Note that the process in step S509 is the same as that in SQ406.

[0158] Next, in step S510, the inspection PC 110 extracts the variable data corresponding to the print page identified in step S505 or step S507 and rearranges it in the printing order. Note that the processing in step S510 is the same as the processing in SQ407, so details are omitted.

[0159] Next, in step S511, the inspection PC 110 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to notify whether the device is in a state where printing and inspection are possible. Note that the process of step S511 is the same as the process of SQ408.

[0160] Next, in step S512, the inspection PC 110 receives the printing and inspection possible state commanded in step S511 from the image forming apparatus 100. The process in step S512 is the same as that in SQ410.

[0161] Next, in step S513, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that preparations for inspection are complete based on the printing and inspection status notified in step S512. Note that the processing in step S513 is the same as that in SQ411.

[0162] In this embodiment, the pages to be printed are identified based on the print page settings during inspection, and variable data and correct image data are extracted. However, only variable data may be extracted. For example, instead of registering all pages to be printed as correct images, only pages for one user are printed. In this case, when registering the correct images, one copy of one user's pages is printed, and when printing and inspecting, all pages for all users are printed. In this case, since there are no correct images corresponding to all pages, print image inspection is performed by repeating the number of copies for each user without replacing the correct images. Furthermore, since data inspection requires switching the rows of the CSV file referenced for each user, data inspection is performed to extract variable data based on the input print page settings. This allows inspection by printing only one copy of the correct image, thereby reducing wasted paper even when inspecting variable printing.

[0163] Furthermore, the page to be printed is identified and variable data is extracted based on the print page settings at the time of inspection, but if there is a mismatch between the string read during data inspection and the correct string, printing may be interrupted. For example, if the page settings of the application that set the print settings differ from the settings entered for the page to be printed in the UI 800, printing can be interrupted and the results checked, making it possible to reduce unwanted printing.

[0164] As explained above, by identifying the page to be printed based on the print page settings at the time of inspection and simultaneously changing the correct image and correct character string of the variable data, it is now possible to perform print image inspection and data inspection in which the correct image and correct character string match.

[0165] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, when image data read by the image reading unit 270 of the image forming apparatus 100 is used as the reference image, a method is described in which the page to be printed is identified based on the print page settings at the time of inspection, and the reference image and reference data reference character string are changed. At this time, the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 do not notify job setting information or the like, and print settings are performed using a UI. In this embodiment, the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 notify job setting information or the like, and a RIP image is used as the reference image, and the page to be printed is identified based on the print page settings at the time of inspection. This section describes a method for performing print image inspection and data inspection by matching the reference image and reference data reference character strings. A RIP image (Raster Image Processor) is an image obtained by converting manuscript data or document data into bitmap image data.

[0166] The following describes the present embodiment in terms of the differences from the first embodiment.

[0167] [Inspection system correct image processing flow] 11 is a diagram showing a processing flow for a user to register a reference image and inspection settings in the inspection system before inspection. In this flow, a RIP image is generated from manuscript data in the printer server 130, the generated RIP image is saved as reference image data, and settings to be used during inspection are configured. By executing these flows, the registration work of a reference image and inspection settings to be performed before inspecting printed materials is completed.

[0168] 11, the client PC 120, the printer server 130, the inspection PC 110, and the image forming apparatus 100 execute the processes described below in response to commands from the user 301. The client PC 120 executes the processes in response to an instruction from the user to start registering a correct image.

[0169] At this time, the processing of the inspection PC 110 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 via the CPU 112. The processing of the client PC 120 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 126 into the RAM 123 and controlling the device control unit 121 via the CPU 122. The processing of the printer server 130 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 136 into the RAM 133 and controlling the device control unit 131 via the CPU 132. The processing of the image forming apparatus 100 is performed by loading program code stored in the storage unit 203 into the RAM 202 and controlling the device control unit 200 via the CPU 201.

[0170] In this embodiment, information about jobs can be communicated between the printer server 130 and the inspection PC 110. In this embodiment, the communication method between the printer server 130 and the inspection PC 110 is JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) format or XML (Extensible Markup Language) format.

[0171] First, in SQ1101, the client PC 120 sets information related to print settings for the document data to be inspected in accordance with instructions from the user.

[0172] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for setting information related to print settings.

[0173] The UI 1300 in FIG. 13 is used to input print settings related to the inspection process, and is a UI screen displayed on the UI unit 128 of the client PC 120.

[0174] First, the list box 1301 is similar to the list box 601 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0175] Next, a text box 1302 is similar to the text box 803 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0176] Next, the radio button 1303 is similar to the radio button 602 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0177] Next, the UI 1304 is similar to the UI 804 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0178] Next, the radio button 1305 is similar to the radio button 805 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0179] Next, UI 1306 is a group of UIs for setting whether or not to perform an inspection selected by the user using radio buttons and list boxes. The patterns that can be selected using the radio buttons are "Do not inspect," "Inspect using registered pattern," and "Set inspection pattern."

[0180] "No inspection" is a radio button that is selected when no inspection is to be performed. When "No inspection" is selected, the subsequent correct image registration process and inspection will not be performed.

[0181] "Inspect with registered pattern" is a radio button that is selected when inspecting using a registered pattern that is part of the inspection settings set in Fig. 7. The registered pattern can be registered when setting up the inspection, and when UI1306 is selectable, the registered registered patterns are displayed in a list box and can be selected. Since the inspection is performed using the selected registered pattern, if "Inspect with registered pattern" is selected, the inspection is performed without performing the subsequent correct image registration process.

[0182] "Set inspection pattern" is a radio button that is selected when registering a correct image and setting up an inspection.

[0183] A button 1307 is pressed by the user when all print settings related to the inspection process have been completed and the user wishes to save the settings they have made. A button 1308 is pressed by the user when the user wishes to interrupt the settings related to the inspection process. When the user presses button 1308, the information being set is discarded and the flow for registering the correct image is terminated.

[0184] The above is a description of the UI for setting print settings related to the inspection process in this embodiment.

[0185] Next, in SQ1102, the client PC 120 commands the printer server 130 to execute processing for registering the correct image. Specifically, the command is to create RIP data from the manuscript data and transfer the data to the inspection PC 110. In this embodiment, the manuscript data that is the source data for creating the RIP data is transmitted from the client PC 120 to the printer server 130 at this time.

[0186] Next, in SQ1103, the printer server 130 saves the settings for RIP processing based on the print settings set in SQ1101.

[0187] Next, in SQ1104, the printer server 130 commands the inspection PC 110 to execute preparations for accepting the RIP data transferred from the printer server 130.

[0188] Next, in SQ1105, the inspection PC 110 activates the folder to which the RIP data is transferred as a hot folder to be monitored. In this embodiment, a predetermined folder is designated as the hot folder, but the user may also designate it. In this case, the destination folder must also be set in the printer server 130. The inspection PC 110 checks whether a file transfer event has occurred for the hot folder to be monitored, and as soon as the transfer of the RIP data is complete, it executes the subsequent registration process of the correct image.

[0189] Next, in SQ1106, the inspection PC 110 notifies the printer server 130 that the series of operations for accepting the RIP data has been completed.

[0190] Next, in SQ1107, the printer server 130 performs RIP processing on each page in accordance with the document data received from the client PC 120 in SQ1102 and the information related to the print settings set in SQ1103, and generates RIP data.

[0191] Next, in SQ1108, the printer server 130 transfers the RIP data generated in SQ1107 to the hot folder to be monitored by the inspection PC 110 one page at a time as soon as the data is generated.

[0192] Next, in SQ1109, the inspection PC 110 sequentially saves the RIP data received in SQ1108. Then, SQ1107 to SQ1109 are repeated for the number of print pages of the document data.

[0193] Next, in SQ1110, the inspection PC 110 saves the RIP data up to SQ1109 as the correct image, and notifies the printer server 130 that registration is complete.

[0194] Next, in SQ1111, upon receiving the notification of SQ1110, the printer server 130 generates a correct image and notifies the client PC 120 that registration has been completed.

[0195] Next, SQ1120 to SQ1123 are the same as the processes from SQ340 to SQ343 in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0196] The above is a description of the processing flow for registering a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in this embodiment.

[0197] [Inspection system inspection execution flow] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a processing flow for a user to print using the image forming apparatus 100 via the printer server 130, and then inspect the printed matter for abnormal images using the inspection PC 110 in accordance with the inspection settings set in Fig. 3. The basic configuration in Fig. 12 is the same as that in Fig. 4 of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0198] First, in SQ1201, the client PC 120 sets print settings to be instructed to the image forming apparatus 100 when printing and inspecting in accordance with instructions from the user. Note that SQ1201 is the print settings referenced in the settings of SQ1101, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. In this embodiment, the print settings referenced in the settings of SQ1101 are used, but when printing a job that has been registered in advance or printing and inspecting a job that has been inspected in the past is redone, the print settings at the time of inspection in FIG. 8 may be displayed.

[0199] Next, in SQ1202, the client PC 120 commands the printer server 130 to print using the document data and print settings specified by the user.

[0200] Next, in SQ1203, the printer server 130 issues an inspection preparation command to the inspection PC 110. Note that the inspection settings used for inspection set in SQ1121 and the print settings set in SQ1201 are used.

[0201] Next, SQ1204 to SQ1211 are the same as the processes from SQ403 to SQ410 in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0202] Next, in SQ1212, the inspection PC 110 notifies the printer server 130 that it is ready to execute inspection, based on the printing and inspection status notified in SQ1210.

[0203] Next, SQ1221 to SQ1228 are the same as the processes from SQ421 to SQ428 in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0204] Next, in SQ1229, the inspection PC 110 notifies the printer server 130 that inspection of the page to be printed has been completed.

[0205] Next, in SQ1230, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the printer server 130 that printing of the pages to be printed has been completed.

[0206] Next, in SQ1231, the printer server 130 notifies the client PC 120 that printing has been completed by receiving either the inspection completion notification in SQ1229 or the printing completion notification in SQ1230.

[0207] Note that, when job-related information can be communicated between the printer server 130 and the inspection PC 110 as in this embodiment, the print-related settings in Fig. 13 may be made only for the printer server 130. For example, by communicating the print settings made in Fig. 13 as job information from the printer server 130 to the inspection PC 110, the user does not need to make print settings on the inspection PC 110, thereby shortening the steps for inspection settings. Furthermore, by making print settings including inspection all at once in SQ1101, and also omitting the print settings before inspection made in SQ1201, it is possible to perform a series of operations from registering a correct image to printing and inspection without instructions from the user.

[0208] By adopting the above configuration, in this embodiment, the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 communicate job setting information and the like, and a RIP image is used as the correct image, and the pages to be printed are identified based on the print page settings at the time of inspection. The correct image and the correct character string of the reference data match, making it possible to inspect the print image and data.

Claims

1. Printing means, A first inspection means for inspecting multiple printed materials by comparing image data of multiple pages generated by RIP processing with multiple read image data obtained by reading multiple printed materials on which the images of the multiple pages have been printed by the printing means, A string acquisition means that acquires a string containing characters other than numbers by performing character recognition processing in a designated area of ​​each of the multiple read image data where different strings are printed between the pages of the multiple pages, A matching data acquisition means for acquiring matching data that includes a correct string containing characters other than numbers, corresponding to the specified area in each of the aforementioned multiple pages, The system includes a second inspection means for inspecting the plurality of printed materials by comparing a string obtained from the designated area in the read image data of the page by the string acquisition means with the correct string corresponding to the designated area of ​​the page included in the matching data. An inspection device characterized by the following features.

2. The string containing characters other than digits is a string containing digits and characters other than digits. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

3. In the designated areas where different strings of characters are printed between the pages of the plurality of pages, a string of characters including numbers and non-number characters is printed. The inspection apparatus according to feature 2.

4. The matching data is a CSV file in which the correct strings are associated with each specified region and stored. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The string of characters other than numbers is an address or a name. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The designated area is set by the user. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

7. The designated area is set multiple times on each of the multiple pages, The second inspection means inspects the multiple printed materials by comparing the string obtained by the string acquisition means from each of the multiple designated areas on each of the multiple designated areas with the correct string corresponding to the designated area included in the matching data. The inspection apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The string acquisition means performs character recognition processing in each of the plurality of designated areas based on the character orientation setting set by the user in each of the designated areas. The inspection apparatus according to feature 7.

9. The string acquisition means receives a setting from the user regarding the type of character to be acquired by the character recognition process, and acquires a string based on that setting. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

10. The first inspection means inspects the plurality of printed materials without comparing the designated area with the image data and the read image data. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

11. The plurality of pages are a plurality of pages designated by the user as to be printed by the printing means. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

12. A method for controlling an inspection device, The printing process, A first inspection step involves comparing image data of multiple pages generated by RIP processing with multiple read image data obtained by reading multiple printed materials on which the images of the multiple pages have been printed in the printing step, thereby inspecting the multiple printed materials. A character recognition process is performed in a designated area of ​​each of the multiple read image data where different character strings are printed on each of the multiple pages, thereby obtaining a character string that includes characters other than numbers. A matching data acquisition step involves acquiring matching data that includes correct strings containing characters other than numbers, corresponding to the specified area in each of the aforementioned multiple pages. The process includes a second inspection step, in which, for each of the aforementioned multiple pages, the string obtained from the designated area in the read image data of that page by the string acquisition step is compared with the correct string corresponding to the designated area of ​​that page included in the matching data, thereby inspecting the multiple printed materials. A control method for an inspection device, characterized by the following features.

13. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the control method of the inspection apparatus described in Claim 12.

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