Information processing system and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system that verifies a defect in a direction, a defect in an order, and excess / shortage of an image of an inspection target object even in a case where multiple media after image formation that form an inspection target object are subjected to the image formation at different timing and are retrospectively combined.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes a processor. The processor is configured to: acquire verification data of an inspection target object consisting of multiple media after image formation, and images scanned from the inspection target object by an image scanning portion; and verify at least one of a defect in a direction and a defect in an order of the images of the inspection target object on the basis of the images scanned by the image scanning portion and on the verification data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to an information processing system and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] The inspection system using a multifunction printer described in Patent Document 1 is an inspection system using a multifunction printer that has a printing means for printing print data, a reading means for reading the original printed by the printing means, an image comparison means for comparing an image generated from the print data for printing by the printing means with the image read by the reading means, an NG processing means for when the image comparison means determines that the images are different (= NG), and a print order / orientation adjustment means for adjusting the orientation and order of the reprinted pages taking into account the paper discharge characteristics of the scanner when reprinting an image that has been determined to be NG by the NG processing means, and is characterized by having an NG page detection means for detecting pages that have been determined to be NG by the NG processing means, and a paper control means for controlling the paper discharge destination and paper feed in accordance with the determination result of the NG page detection means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-83449 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing system that verifies at least one of defects in the orientation or order of the images of the object to be inspected, even if the images of multiple image-formed media that make up the object to be inspected are formed at different times and then combined after the fact. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The information processing system according to the first aspect includes a processor, which acquires verification data for an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of media on which images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit, and verifies at least one of defects in the orientation and order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0006] In the information processing system of the second aspect, in the information processing system of the first aspect, when an image of the object to be inspected is formed on both sides of a medium, the processor causes the image reading unit to read only one side of the medium, and verifies at least one of defects in the orientation and order of the image of the object to be inspected based on the image of that one side and the verification data.

[0007] An information processing system according to a third aspect is an information processing system according to the first or second aspect, in which the processor verifies defects in the orientation and order of the image of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0008] An information processing system according to a fourth aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the processor verifies whether the object to be inspected is excessive or insufficient based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data.

[0009] An information processing system according to a fifth aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the processor does not verify the quality of the image of the object to be inspected when verifying at least one of the orientation and defects of the image of the object to be inspected.

[0010] An information processing system according to a sixth aspect is the information processing system according to the fifth aspect, wherein the processor uses the verification data with a lower resolution than the image read by the image reading unit.

[0011] An information processing system according to a seventh aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the processor presents a method for resolving the abnormality based on the verification result of the verified inspection object.

[0012] An information processing system according to an eighth aspect is an information processing system according to the seventh aspect, wherein the processor stores original data of the image used by the image forming unit for image formation, and when presenting a method for resolving the abnormality, displays the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data to the user along with the verification result.

[0013] An information processing program according to a ninth aspect causes a computer to execute processing including acquiring verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of media on which images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit, and verifying at least one of defects in the orientation and order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the first and ninth aspects, even if the multiple image-formed media constituting the object to be inspected are image-formed at different times and then combined afterwards, it is possible to verify at least one of defects in the orientation and order of the images on the object to be inspected.

[0015] According to the second aspect, when images are formed on both sides of a medium, the inspection time is reduced compared to a configuration in which both sides of the medium are inspected.

[0016] According to the third aspect, even if the multiple image-formed media constituting the object to be inspected are formed with images at different times and then combined afterwards, it is possible to verify defects in the orientation and order of the images on the object to be inspected.

[0017] According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to verify whether the number of test objects is excessive or insufficient.

[0018] According to the fifth aspect, the inspection time is reduced compared to the configuration for verifying the quality of the image of the inspection object.

[0019] According to the sixth aspect, the verification time is reduced compared to a configuration in which verification data having the same resolution as the image read by the image reading unit is used.

[0020] According to the seventh aspect, the time required for the user to resolve the abnormality is reduced compared to a configuration in which only the verification result is presented.

[0021] According to the eighth aspect, the user can more easily resolve the abnormality than in a configuration in which only an improvement instruction is notified to the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an inspection system according to an embodiment of the disclosed technique; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the inspection system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram from setting an object to be inspected to inspecting the object in the inspection system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart of an inspection in the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of a display to a user by a controller according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or equivalent components and parts in the various drawings.

[0024] <Configuration of the embodiment> (Inspection System) FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an inspection system 10 according to an embodiment of the technology disclosed herein. The inspection system 10 is configured as an image forming system and is used as a system for inspecting an object to be inspected, which is completed by combining multiple recording media (not shown) on which images are formed at different times. The recording media are an example of a medium. Specifically, in a situation where a user combines multiple recording media on which images are formed at different times while taking into consideration the image orientation, order, and front and back of the recording media, the inspection system 10 inspects the object by having a controller 70 (described later) verify the image orientation, order, and excess or deficiency. Note that in this specification, image orientation, order, and excess or deficiency may be collectively referred to as "abnormalities," and a state without abnormalities is referred to as "normal." The inspection system 10 includes an image forming device 20, a verification device 30, and a controller 70.

[0025] ((Image forming device)) The image forming apparatus 20 is an apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium (not shown) or transports an object to be inspected based on job data (hereinafter referred to as original data) sent from the controller 70. The image forming apparatus 20 is an example of an image forming unit. As the image forming apparatus 20, for example, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium using toner is used. Note that the image forming apparatus 20 may also be an inkjet image forming apparatus, and various image forming apparatuses can be used. In an inkjet image forming apparatus, for example, an image is formed on the recording medium by ejecting ink droplets from an ejection unit (not shown) onto the recording medium.

[0026] The image forming apparatus 20 performs various processes, such as charging, exposure, development, transfer onto a recording medium, and fixing, etc. The image forming apparatus 20 also stores the original data of the image used in image formation.

[0027] ((Verification device)) When functioning as part of an image forming system, the verification device 30 scans the image formed on a recording medium by the image forming device 20, inspects the quality of the image by comparing the scanned data with the original data, and outputs whether the image is normal or abnormal.

[0028] When functioning as part of the inspection system 10, the verification device 30 is connected to the image forming device 20 and verifies the object to be inspected transported from the image forming device 20. Specifically, the verification device 30 has an image reading unit 40, and scans multiple recording media constituting the object to be inspected page by page using the image reading unit 40. After scanning all the recording media, the verification device 30 stores the scan data and the verification results at the time of scanning in memory. Scanning is an example of reading, and the scan data is an example of an image read by the image forming unit (described later). The verification results refer to the results at the time of scanning regarding the identity (including orientation) of the images obtained by comparing the scan data of the object to the verification data.

[0029] The memory is not limited to being internal to the verification device 30, but may be a controller 70 (described later), or may be an external server or memory of a portable recording medium. Furthermore, the image reading unit 40 is not limited to being a part of the verification device 30. For example, the image reading unit 40 may be a part of the image forming device 20, or may be an external unit that is detachable from the inspection system 10.

[0030] When images are formed on both sides of a recording medium, the image reading unit 40 scans the images on both sides. However, the image reading unit 40 can also scan only one side.

[0031] ((controller)) As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the controller 70 is connected to the image forming device 20 and the verification device 30 by wire or wirelessly.

[0032] When functioning as part of the image forming system, the controller 70 controls the overall image formation on the recording medium. Specifically, the controller 70 receives an image formation job, outputs an image formation instruction to the image forming device 20 based on the job, receives the image quality verification result from the verification device 30, and displays the verification result on a user interface (not shown).

[0033] When the controller 70 functions as part of the inspection system 10, it generates verification data, instructs the image forming device 20 to transport the object to be inspected, instructs the verification device 30 to perform verification, and inspects the object to be inspected. The verification data is used to compare the identity (including orientation) of the image with the scan data during inspection, and has a lower resolution than the original data. The controller 70 does not verify the quality of the image formed on the object to be inspected.

[0034] 2, the controller 70 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 72A, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 72B, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 72C, a storage 72D, an input / output unit 78, and a network interface (network I / F) 80. Each component is connected to each other via a bus 72E so as to be able to communicate with each other. The controller 70 is an example of an information processing system.

[0035] The CPU 72A is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls each component. That is, the CPU 72A reads programs from the ROM 72B or storage 72D and executes the programs using the RAM 72C as a work area. The CPU 72A is an example of a processor, and the control program executed by the CPU 72A is an example of an information processing program. The CPU 72A controls the above components and performs various arithmetic operations in accordance with the programs recorded in the ROM 72B or storage.

[0036] The ROM 72B stores various programs and various data. The RAM 72C temporarily stores programs or data as a working area. The storage 72D is configured with an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) and stores various programs including the operating system and various data.

[0037] The input / output unit 78 receives signals between the image forming system and the components of the inspection system 10 to enable the inspection system 10 to function.

[0038] The network I / F 80 is an interface for communicating with other devices such as databases and servers (not shown), and uses standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), FDDI, and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0039] As described above, the inspection system 10 inspects the object to be inspected via the image forming device 20.

[0040] [Inspection system sequence] Next, a sequence in which each component in the inspection system 10 performs its function will be described.

[0041] 3, an object to be inspected is set in the image forming apparatus 20. Specifically, the object to be inspected is set by storing the object to be inspected in a tray (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 20.

[0042] When the inspection object is set in the image forming device 20, the controller 70 generates verification data based on the original data. The controller 70 also transmits the generated verification data to the verification device 30.

[0043] After the verification device 30 receives the verification data, the controller 70 instructs the image forming device 20 to perform verification.

[0044] The image forming apparatus 20 transports the inspection object stored in a tray to the verification apparatus 30 via a transport path. An example of the inspection object is a stack of recording media in which the image forming apparatus 20, as part of an image forming system, has formed images on a plurality of recording media that have quality abnormalities in some of the images, and the recording media with the abnormal images have been manually replaced by recording media with normal images formed at a different time. In such a stack of recording media, discrepancies may occur with the original data in the page order, orientation, and front and back sides of the recording media.

[0045] The verification device 30 starts scanning the object to be inspected, conveyed from the image forming device 20, for each page of the recording medium using the image reading unit 40. The verification device 30 performs verification by comparing the scan data obtained by scanning each page of the recording medium with the verification data, and stores the verification results as the verification results for the object to be inspected. The verification device 30 continues verification and stores the verification results as long as the image reading unit 40 generates scan data. When the image reading unit 40 stops generating scan data, the verification device 30 notifies the controller 70 of the stored verification results. Note that in this embodiment, the verification device 30 notifies the controller 70 of the verification results, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the controller 70 may generate the verification results after acquiring the scan data and the original data or the verification data.

[0046] Then, the controller 70 obtains the verification result from the verification device 30 and checks the verification result.

[0047] [Test details] Next, the details of the inspection of the object to be inspected by the controller 70 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0048] In step S10, the CPU 72A of the controller 70 determines whether or not there is an abnormality detection page in the verification result.

[0049] If the determination result is "Y" indicating affirmative, the CPU 72A determines that the object to be inspected contains some kind of abnormality, and proceeds to step S20.

[0050] In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to the abnormality detection page of the scan data and sets the abnormality detection page as the page to be checked, and then the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30.

[0051] When the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30, the CPU 72A determines whether the contents of the scan data have been checked for all pages of the verification data. Here, "all pages" refers to only the verification data corresponding to the page in the scan data where an anomaly was detected, but it may also refer to all pages of the verification data regardless of the page in the scan data where an anomaly was detected.

[0052] [[0 degree rotation]] If the determination result in step S30 is "N," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S40 and determines whether the scan data will be in the correct orientation when rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation. The reference orientation refers to a single orientation specified by a user (not shown).

[0053] [[90 degree rotation]] If the determination result in step S40 is "N", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S42 and determines whether the scan data will be in the correct orientation if rotated 90 degrees from the reference orientation. Details of step S62 if the determination result is "Y" will be described later.

[0054] [[180 degree rotation]] If the determination result in step S42 is "N", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S44 and determines whether the scan data will be in the correct orientation when rotated 180 degrees from the reference orientation.

[0055] [[270 degree rotation]] If the determination result in step S44 is "N", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S46 and determines whether the scan data will be in the correct orientation when rotated 270 degrees from the reference orientation.

[0056] If the determination result in step S46 is "N," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S50. In this case, the content (image) of the scan data set as the page to be checked contains an abnormality. Specifically, since the image of the scan data set as the page to be checked does not have the correct orientation even when rotated, the CPU 72A determines that there is an abnormality other than a defective image orientation, and proceeds to step S50.

[0057] In step S50, the CPU 72A moves to a page of the verification data to be compared with the page to be checked. Specifically, the CPU 72A moves from the current page of the verification data to another page to determine whether the scan data set as the page to be checked is in the correct position on another page of the entire object to be inspected (verification data), i.e., whether the order is correct. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30.

[0058] [Step S62] Step S62 will now be described. If the determination result of any of step S40, step S42, step S44, or step S46 is "Y," the CPU 72A proceeds to step S62. Specifically, by rotating the content (image) of the scan data set for the page to be checked, the image of the scan data is set to the correct orientation, and if the defective image orientation is corrected, it is deemed to be normal.

[0059] Therefore, in step S62, the CPU 72A holds the page of the verification data, the page of the scan data set as the page to be checked, and the rotation information.

[0060] Furthermore, if the judgment result of step S30 is "Y", the CPU 72A proceeds to step S64 and retains anomaly information that includes at least information that the page being checked does not contain an image that matches the verification data and a solution to resolve the anomaly.

[0061] In either case where the process of step S62 is completed or the process of step S64 is completed, the inspection of the current check target page is completed, and the CPU 72A proceeds to step S10 where it determines whether or not there is an abnormality detected page.

[0062] Finally, in step S10, if the determination result is "N" indicating negative, the CPU 72A ends the flow.

[0063] [Example of verification result display] In the inspection system 10 of this embodiment, the verification results can be displayed on a display unit (not shown). The inspection system 10 presents a method for resolving the abnormality to the user based on the verification results of the inspected object. The display unit may be a component of the inspection system 10, or may be incorporated as a part of the component.

[0064] The premise of Figure 5 will be explained. The object to be inspected is a bundle of six recording media on which images have been formed at different times, which have been combined by the user into one. In other words, the object to be inspected consists of a total of six pages. As shown in Figure 5, the verification results are presented together with the verification data, scan data related to the verification results, and a solution plan showing how to resolve the abnormality. Note that the verification data, scan data, and solution plan are not limited to the display positions and display methods shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, the original data may be presented instead of the verification data.

[0065] [[Verification data]] The verification data is displayed for each page of the recording medium. In this embodiment, the verification data is displayed for a total of six pages, with each page arranged horizontally. The corresponding page number is displayed below the image corresponding to each page. In this embodiment, page numbers 1 to 6 are displayed in ascending order from the left below the image corresponding to each page.

[0066] [Scanned data] The scanned data is displayed in the order in which it was scanned, and is arranged below the verification data. In this embodiment, the scanned data is displayed for a total of six pages, with each page arranged horizontally. The corresponding page number is displayed below the image corresponding to each page. Furthermore, the scanned data includes an indication of the verification results for each page. In this embodiment, a pattern corresponding to the verification results for each page of the recording medium is applied.

[0067] The patterns are classified into four types: (i) "Normal" indicating that the verification result is normal; (ii) "Abnormal (Page / Rotation)" indicating that an operation is required to correct the orientation and order of the images; (iii) "Abnormal (Extra)" indicating that the object to be inspected contains extra images and needs to be discarded; and (iv) "Abnormal (Missing)" indicating that the object to be inspected contains missing images and needs to be regenerated. Note that in this specification, classification is based on the pattern, but this is not limiting. For example, classification may be based on color, size, or other highlighting methods instead of pattern.

[0068] [[Proposal for Resolution]] The solution displays information indicating image orientation problems, order problems, and excess or deficiency, and is arranged below the scanned data. In this embodiment, the solution displays all six pages, with each page arranged horizontally. In addition, below the image corresponding to each page, page numbers and rotation information for resolving the abnormality are displayed. Furthermore, the solution includes a display showing the verification results for each page. In this embodiment, a pattern corresponding to the verification results for each page of the recording medium is applied.

[0069] <Action and effect> The contents of the flowchart in FIG. 4 will be described with reference to an example of the inspection system 10 of this embodiment shown in FIG.

[0070] In this example, the object to be inspected related to the scan data is a recording medium consisting of a total of six pages. The image reading unit 40 of the verification device 30 scans all six pages of the recording medium, and the verification results are stored for each recording medium (see FIG. 3).

[0071] (Check the second page of the scanned data for verification data) Since the verification result includes three pages (pages 2, 4, and 5) where anomalies were detected out of a total of six pages, the CPU 72A determines the determination result as "Y" in step S10 and proceeds to step S20.

[0072] In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to the second page of the scan data as the first abnormality detection page, sets the second page of the scan data as the page to be checked, and proceeds to step S30.

[0073] In step S30, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S40 because it has not yet checked the contents (image) of the second page of the scan data for all three pages (pages 2, 4, and 5) of the verification data corresponding to the abnormality detection page of the scan data.

[0074] In step S40, the CPU 72A determines whether the second page of the scan data will be rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation of the verification data to obtain the correct orientation for the second page of the verification data. In this embodiment, the determination result in step S40 is "N," so the CPU 72A proceeds to step S42. Thereafter, the determination results in steps S42 through S46 are all "N," so the CPU 72A proceeds to step S50.

[0075] In step S50, the CPU 72A moves the page of the verification data to be compared with the page to be checked (page 2 of the scan data) from the current page 2 to the next page 4. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30.

[0076] (Checking the 2nd page of scanned data against the 4th page of verification data) In step S30, the CPU 72A determines "N" because the contents of the second page of the scan data have not been checked on the fourth and fifth pages of the verification data, and proceeds to step S40.

[0077] In step S40, the content of the second page of the scanned data does not have the correct orientation even when rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation of the fourth page of the verification data, so the result is determined to be "N" and the process proceeds to step S42. The CPU 72A also determines "N" in step S42 and proceeds to step S44.

[0078] Then, in step S44, the CPU 72A determines that the content of the page to be checked (the second page of the scanned data) will be in the correct orientation (the triangular mark will be upright) when rotated 180 degrees from the reference orientation on the fourth page of the verification data, so the answer is "Y" and the process proceeds to step S62.

[0079] In step S62, the CPU 72A holds information for rotating the second page of the scan data set as the page to be checked by 180 degrees from the reference orientation and moving it to the fourth page of the solution plan. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S10.

[0080] (Checking the 4th page of scanned data against the 2nd page of verification data) In step S10, the CPU 72A determines "Y" because the fourth and fifth pages of the scan data remain as abnormality detection pages in the verification result, and proceeds to step S20. In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to page 4 of the scan data and sets this page as the page to be checked.

[0081] Similarly, when the flow proceeds with the fourth page of the scan data as the page to be checked, the CPU 72A determines "Y" in step S40 and proceeds to step S62.

[0082] In step S62, the CPU 72A stores information for moving the fourth page of the scan data set as the page to be checked to the second page of the solution in a state rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation (current image orientation state). Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S10.

[0083] (Check the verification data on the 5th page of the scanned data) In step S10, the CPU 72A determines "Y" because the fifth page of the scan data remains as an abnormality detection page in the verification results, and proceeds to step S20. In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to page 5 of the scan data and sets this page as the page to be checked. Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S30.

[0084] In step S30, the CPU 72A determines "N" because the content of the fifth page of the scan data has not been checked on the fifth page of the verification data, and proceeds to step S40.

[0085] In step S40, the content of the fifth page of the scan data does not become the correct orientation even when rotated 0 degrees from the reference orientation of the fifth page of the verification data, so the determination is "N" and the process proceeds to step S42. The CPU 72A similarly determines "N" in steps S42 through S46 and proceeds to step S50.

[0086] In step S50, the CPU 72A moves the page of the verification data to be compared with the page to be checked (the fifth page of the scan data) from the current fifth page, and proceeds to step S30.

[0087] In step S30, the CPU 72A determines "Y" because it has finished checking the contents of the scan data for all pages (second, fourth and fifth pages) of the verification data, and proceeds to step S64.

[0088] The CPU 72A holds the abnormality information in step S64. The abnormality information in this embodiment is as follows (see FIG. 5). (1) On the second page of the solution, move the fourth page of the scanned data while rotating it 0 degrees from the standard orientation. (2) On the fourth page of the solution, move the second page of the scanned data while rotating it 180 degrees from the standard orientation. (3) On page 5 of the solution, indicate the lack of images. (4) The fifth page of the scan data indicates an abnormality, indicating that an image is extraneous.

[0089] Then, the CPU 72A proceeds to step S10.

[0090] Finally, in step S10, the CPU 72A determines "N" because no abnormality detection pages remain, and the flow ends.

[0091] <Action and effect> When combining multiple recording media into one, there is a risk that the image orientation, order, and excess or deficiency may occur in the test object inspected by the inspection system 10. Therefore, the operation and effect of the inspection system 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0092] The controller 70 of this embodiment acquires verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of recording media on which images have been formed, and images scanned from the object by the image reading unit 40, and verifies at least one of defects in the orientation and sequence of the images of the object to be inspected, based on the images scanned by the image reading unit 40 and the verification data. Furthermore, a control program executed by the CPU 72A of this embodiment causes a computer to execute processing including receiving verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of recording media on which images have been formed, causing the image reading unit 40, which scans images formed by the image forming apparatus 20, to scan the images of the object to be inspected, and verifying at least one of defects in the orientation and sequence of the images of the object to be inspected, based on the images scanned by the image reading unit 40 and the verification data.

[0093] As described above, the control program executed by the controller 70 or CPU 72A can verify at least one of the orientation and order of the images on the object to be inspected, even if the images on multiple image-formed recording media that make up the object to be inspected are formed at different times and then combined after the fact.

[0094] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment verifies whether the image orientation and sequence of the object to be inspected are incorrect based on the image scanned by the image reading unit 40 and the verification data. This makes it possible to verify whether the image orientation and sequence of the object to be inspected are incorrect, even if the multiple image-formed media constituting the object to be inspected were image-formed at different times and then combined after the fact.

[0095] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment verifies whether the object to be inspected is excessive or insufficient based on the image scanned by the image reading unit 40 and the verification data. This makes it possible to verify whether the object to be inspected is excessive or insufficient.

[0096] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment does not verify the quality of the image of the object under inspection when verifying at least one of the orientation and defects of the image of the object under inspection, thereby reducing the inspection time compared to a configuration in which the quality of the image of the object under inspection is verified.

[0097] Furthermore, in the controller 70 of this embodiment, the processor uses the verification data with a lower resolution than the image scanned by the image reading unit 40. This reduces the verification time compared to a configuration in which verification data with the same resolution as the image scanned by the image reading unit 40 is used.

[0098] Furthermore, the controller 70 of this embodiment presents a method for resolving the abnormality based on the verification result of the inspected object, thereby reducing the time it takes for the user to resolve the abnormality compared to a configuration in which only the verification result is presented.

[0099] The controller 70 of this embodiment stores the original data of the image used for image formation by the image forming apparatus 20, and when presenting a method for resolving the abnormality, displays the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data together with the verification results to the user. This makes it easier for the user to resolve the abnormality compared to a configuration in which only improvement instructions are notified to the user.

[0100] <Modification> The above describes embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. However, it is clear that a person with ordinary knowledge in the field of technology to which the present disclosure pertains can conceive of various modifications or applications within the scope of the technical ideas set forth in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0101] <<First Modification>> The inspection system 10 is also applicable to cases where the image of the object to be inspected is recorded on both sides of a recording medium.

[0102] 3, for a recording medium having images formed on both sides, the image reading unit 40 of the verification device 30 scans the image on only one side of the recording medium. Then, the controller 70 starts the inspection.

[0103] Next, a description will be given with reference to Fig. 4. If the verification result indicates that an abnormality has been detected on the page in step S10, the CPU 72A of the controller 70 proceeds to step S20.

[0104] In step S20, the CPU 72A moves to the anomaly detection page of the scan data in which only one side has been scanned, sets the anomaly detection page as the page to be checked, and proceeds to step S30.

[0105] In step S30, the CPU 72A sequentially compares the contents of the scan data obtained by scanning only one side with the verification data for both sides, and finally ends the flow.

[0106] As described above, when an image of an object to be inspected is recorded on both sides of a recording medium, the controller 70 according to the first modification causes the image reading unit 40 to read only one side of the recording medium, and verifies at least one of defects in the orientation and order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image of that one side and the verification data. According to the first modification, when images are formed on both sides of a recording medium, the inspection time is reduced compared to a configuration in which both sides of the recording medium are verified.

[0107] In the first modified example, an instruction to the user to turn the scan data over may be added to the above embodiment as a method for resolving the abnormality.

[0108] <<Other variations>> The object to be inspected is a combination of a plurality of recording media, and the combination method may be either manual combination by a user or combination by a specific device.

[0109] In the above embodiment, the inspection of the object to be inspected involves determining the image orientation and then the image order, but this is not limited to this. For example, the image orientation may be determined after the image order has been determined. Note that the excess or deficiency of images is determined after the image orientation and order. In this case, the excess or deficiency of images may be determined by comparing the number of pages of the scan data with the number of pages of the verification data.

[0110] In the above embodiment, the image forming device 20 in the inspection system 10 stores the original data of the image used for image formation, but this is not limited to this. For example, if an image forming device outside the inspection system 10 uses the original data of the image used for image formation, the inspection system 10 may store verification data generated based on the original data.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the inspection system 10 includes a single image forming apparatus 20, but this is not limited to this. The inspection system 10 may include multiple image forming apparatuses. In this case, even if only some of the image forming apparatuses have the verification device 30, the remaining image forming apparatuses can also inspect the object to be inspected by sharing the verification data.

[0112] The above processing can also be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit, in which case it may be executed by a single piece of hardware or by multiple pieces of hardware.

[0113] In the above embodiment, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0114] Furthermore, the operations of the processor in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Alternatively, the operations performed by specific processors in the above embodiments may be partially or entirely integrated into a single processor. Furthermore, the order of the processor operations is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0115] The program for operating the controller 70 may be provided by a computer-readable recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a flexible disk, or a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is typically transferred to and stored in a memory or storage device. The program may be provided as standalone application software, or may be incorporated into the software of each device as a function of the controller 70.

[0116] <Additional Notes> (((1))) a processor; The processor: acquiring verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of media on which images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit; verifying at least one of a defect in the orientation and a defect in the order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; Information processing system. (((2))) The processor: When the image of the object to be inspected is formed on both sides of a medium, the image reading unit reads only one side of the medium, and at least one of a defect in the orientation and a defect in the order of the images of the object to be inspected is verified based on the image of the one side and the verification data. The information processing system according to (((1))). (((3))) The processor: verifying whether the image of the object to be inspected is oriented correctly and in the correct order based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; The information processing system according to (((1))) or (((2))). (((4))) The processor: verifying whether the object to be inspected is excessive or insufficient based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((3))). (((5))) The processor: When verifying at least one of the orientation and defects of the image of the inspection object, not verifying the quality of the image of the inspected object; The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((4))). (((6))) The processor: using the verification data with a resolution lower than that of the image read by the image reading unit; The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))). (((7))) The processor: suggesting a method for resolving the abnormality based on the verification result of the verified object; The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((6))). (((8))) The processor: The image forming unit stores the original data of the image used for image formation, When presenting the method for resolving the abnormality, the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data is displayed to the user together with the verification result. The information processing system according to (((7))). (((9))) On the computer, acquiring verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of media on which images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit; verifying at least one of a defect in the orientation and a defect in the order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; An information processing program that executes processing including the above.

[0117] According to the information processing system (((1))) or the information processing program (((9))), even if the multiple image-formed media constituting the object to be inspected are image-formed at different times and then combined after the fact, it is possible to verify at least one of defects in the orientation and order of the images on the object to be inspected. According to the information processing system (((2))), when images are formed on both sides of a medium, the inspection time is reduced compared to a configuration in which both sides of the medium are inspected. According to the information processing system (((3))), even if the multiple image-formed media constituting the object to be inspected are image-formed at different times and then combined after the fact, it is possible to verify whether the image orientation and order of the object to be inspected are incorrect. According to the information processing system (((4))), it is possible to verify whether the number of test objects is excessive or insufficient. According to the information processing system (((5))), the inspection time is reduced compared to a configuration that verifies the quality of an image of an object to be inspected. According to the information processing system of (((6))), the verification time is reduced compared to a configuration that uses verification data with the same resolution as the image read by the image reading unit. According to the information processing system (((7))), the time required for the user to resolve the abnormality is reduced compared to a configuration in which only the verification results are presented. According to the information processing system (((8))), the user can more easily resolve the abnormality than in a configuration in which only improvement instructions are notified to the user. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 10 Inspection System 20 Image forming device 30 Verification Device 40 Image reading unit 70 Controller 72A CPU 72B ROM 72C RAM 72D Storage 72E Bus 78 Input / output section 80 Network Interface

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: acquiring verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of media on which images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit; verifying at least one of a defect in the orientation and a defect in the order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; Information processing system.

2. The processor: When the image of the object to be inspected is formed on both sides of a medium, the image reading unit reads only one side of the medium, and at least one of a defect in the orientation and a defect in the order of the images of the object to be inspected is verified based on the image of the one side and the verification data. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The processor: verifying whether the image of the object to be inspected is oriented correctly and in the correct order based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; 3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The processor: verifying whether the object to be inspected is excessive or insufficient based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

5. The processor: When verifying at least one of the orientation and order of the image of the object to be inspected, the quality of the image of the object to be inspected is not verified. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

6. The processor: using the verification data with a resolution lower than that of the image read by the image reading unit; The information processing system according to claim 5 .

7. The processor: suggesting a method for resolving the abnormality based on the verification result of the verified object; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

8. The processor: The image forming unit stores the original data of the image used for image formation, When presenting the method for resolving the abnormality, the original data or the verification data generated based on the original data is displayed to the user together with the verification result. The information processing system according to claim 7 .

9. On the computer, acquiring verification data of an object to be inspected, which is made up of a plurality of media on which images have been formed, and an image read from the object to be inspected by an image reading unit; verifying at least one of a defect in the orientation and a defect in the order of the images of the object to be inspected based on the image read by the image reading unit and the verification data; An information processing program that executes processing including the above.

Images