Image diagnostic system

Abstract

To prevent a situation in which a noise on a sheet is erroneously detected as an image defect in an image diagnostic system.SOLUTION: An image diagnostic system reads a sheet before an image is formed by an image forming apparatus, reads the sheet after an image for image diagnosis is formed by the image forming apparatus, and from a read image of the sheet before the image is formed and a read image of the sheet after the image is formed, divides at least one of a defect caused by the sheet, a defect caused by reading, and a defect caused by image formation from the others before performing image diagnosis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging diagnostic system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 aims to provide a fault diagnosis system that can accurately identify fault locations, and to solve this problem, it discloses a technology for detecting whether a defect image pattern exists in document data by pattern matching the defect image pattern with document data. Patent Document 2 addresses the issue of correctly identifying an "abnormal image" from a printer when acquiring a scanned image. To solve this issue, the device in Patent Document 2 acquires first image data obtained by scanning a blank sheet of paper and second image data obtained by scanning a chart formed by an image forming means. The technology then discloses a technique for modifying the second image data using the first image data, and estimating the cause of the abnormality that occurred in the image forming means from the feature values ​​obtained by analyzing the modified image data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-116670 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-103909 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, if a customer's image forming device is experiencing trouble, the image diagnostic system that detects abnormalities in the image forming device is used by the customer engineer of the image forming device in order to deal with the problem as quickly as possible. Here, there is a technology for image diagnosis systems that detects features of points and lines present in an image and identifies image defects that occur during image formation or image reading. However, when identifying image defects by image reading, if noise (for example, foreign matter or dust) is present on the paper from which the image is read, the noise on the paper may be mistakenly detected as an image defect that occurred during image formation or image reading. An object of the present invention is to prevent noise on paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect in an image diagnostic system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The invention described in claim 1 is an image diagnostic system characterized by reading a sheet of paper before an image is formed by an image forming device, reading the sheet of paper after an image for image diagnosis has been formed by the image forming device, and performing image diagnosis by separating at least one of defects caused by the sheet of paper, defects caused by reading, and defects caused by image formation from the read image on the sheet of paper before the image is formed and the read image on the sheet of paper after the image is formed. The invention described in claim 2 is the image diagnostic system described in claim 1, which performs image diagnosis by separating defects caused by the paper or defects caused by the reading from defects caused by the image formation based on a read image of the paper before the image is formed and a read image of the paper after the image is formed. The invention described in claim 3 is the image diagnostic system described in claim 2, characterized in that the image diagnosis is performed using a scanned image of the paper with the reading direction of the paper changed, thereby further separating defects caused by the paper from defects caused by the reading. The invention described in claim 4 is the image diagnostic system described in claim 3, characterized in that the paper is given identification information that distinguishes the paper from others, and the reading direction is recognized using the identification information to perform image diagnosis. The invention described in claim 5 is the image diagnostic system described in claim 1, characterized in that it reads multiple sheets of paper in order before the image is formed, reads the multiple sheets of paper after the image is formed in a state where the order can be recognized, and performs image diagnosis by separating defects caused by the paper, defects caused by the reading, and defects caused by the image formation. The invention described in claim 6 is the image diagnostic system described in claim 5, characterized in that the multiple sheets of paper before the image is formed are given identification information that distinguishes one sheet of the multiple sheets from the other sheets, and the multiple sheets of paper after the image is formed are read in a state where the order can be recognized using the identification information. The invention described in claim 7 is an image diagnostic system having an image forming unit that forms an image for image diagnosis on paper, an image reading unit that reads the paper before the image is formed by the image forming unit and the paper after the image has been formed by the image forming unit, and an image diagnostic unit that performs image diagnosis by isolating defects caused by the paper from the read image on the paper before the image read by the image reading unit is formed and the read image on the paper after the image has been formed. The invention described in claim 8 is an image diagnostic system comprising one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors acquire a first scanned image obtained by scanning a sheet of paper before an image is formed by an image forming device, acquire a second scanned image obtained by scanning the sheet of paper after the image has been formed by the image forming device, and perform image diagnosis by isolating defects caused by the sheet of paper from the first scanned image and the second scanned image. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the invention of claim 1, it is possible to prevent noise on paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect in an image diagnostic system. According to the invention as set forth in claim 2, defects caused by paper or image reading and defects caused by image formation can be distinguished with a simple operation. According to the invention of claim 3, defects caused by the paper and defects caused by reading can be distinguished by a simple operation such as changing the reading direction. According to the invention as set forth in claim 4, the user can read the paper without being conscious of the reading direction of the paper. According to the invention as set forth in claim 5, by reading a plurality of sheets of paper, noise on the paper can be distinguished from image defects. According to the invention described in claim 6, compared to when no identification information is attached to the paper, even if the paper before and after an image is formed are read in a state where the paper reading order is changed, it is possible to identify individual sheets of paper. According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image diagnostic system, it is possible to prevent noise on the paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect. According to the invention as set forth in claim 8, it is possible to prevent noise on paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect in an image diagnostic system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image diagnostic system to which the present embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing unit provided in a server device and an image forming device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a first diagnostic example of an image diagnostic system to which the present embodiment is applied. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second diagnostic example of the diagnostic imaging system to which this embodiment is applied. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a third diagnostic example of the diagnostic imaging system to which this embodiment is applied. [Figure 7] 10(a) to 10(c) are diagrams for explaining the above-mentioned division in the third diagnostic example. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fourth diagnostic example of the diagnostic imaging system to which this embodiment is applied. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fifth diagnostic example of the diagnostic imaging system to which this embodiment is applied. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of image diagnosis in the server device. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for switching between modes. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for switching between modes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. [Imaging Diagnostic System 1] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image diagnostic system 1 to which the present embodiment is applied. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a server device 200 and an information processing unit 100B provided in an image forming device 100. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining the image forming device 100.

[0009] The diagnostic imaging system 1 of this embodiment is provided with a plurality of image forming apparatuses 100 and a server device 200 connected to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses 100 via a communication line 190. The server device 200 is an example of an image diagnosis unit, and in this embodiment, the server device 200 performs image diagnosis for the diagnostic imaging system 1. Furthermore, the diagnostic imaging system 1 is provided with a user terminal 300 connected to the server device 200 and configured to accept operations from a user. In FIG. 1, one image forming apparatus 100 out of a plurality of image forming apparatuses 100 is shown.

[0010] The user terminal 300 is provided with a display device 310. The user terminal 300 is realized by a computer. Examples of the form of the user terminal 300 include a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, and a tablet terminal. The image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an image forming section 100A that forms an image on a sheet. The image forming apparatus 100 further includes an information processing section 100B. The information processing section 100B executes various processes performed by the image forming apparatus 100.

[0011] The server device 200 and the information processing unit 100B provided in the image forming device 100 are realized by a computer. As shown in FIG. 2, each of the server device 200 and the information processing unit 100B includes an arithmetic processing unit 11 that executes digital arithmetic processing according to a program, and a secondary storage unit 12 that stores information. The secondary storage unit 12 is realized by an existing information storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor memory, or a magnetic tape.

[0012] The arithmetic processing unit 11 is provided with a CPU 11a as an example of a processor. The arithmetic processing unit 11 also includes a RAM 11b used as a working memory for the CPU 11a, and a ROM 11c in which programs executed by the CPU 11a are stored. The arithmetic processing unit 11 is also provided with a non-volatile memory 11d that is rewritable and can retain data even if the power supply is interrupted, and an interface unit 11e that controls each part, such as a communication unit, connected to the arithmetic processing unit 11.

[0013] The nonvolatile memory 11d is configured with, for example, a battery-backed SRAM, a flash memory, etc. The secondary storage unit 12 stores files, etc., as well as programs executed by the arithmetic processing unit 11. In this embodiment, the arithmetic processing unit 11 reads a program stored in the ROM 11c or the secondary storage unit 12, and thereby executes each process.

[0014] The program executed by CPU 11a may be provided to server device 200 and information processing unit 100B in a state where it is stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (such as a magnetic tape or a magnetic disk), an optical recording medium (such as an optical disk), a magneto-optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by CPU 11a may be provided to server device 200 and information processing unit 100B using a communication means such as the Internet.

[0015] In this specification, 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.). Furthermore, the operations of the processors may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. The order of the operations of the processors is not limited to the order described in this embodiment, and may be changed.

[0016] Of the processes described below, the processes performed by the image forming apparatus 100 are performed by a CPU 11a provided in the image forming apparatus 100. Also, of the processes described below, the processes performed by the server apparatus 200 are performed by a CPU 11a as an example of a processor provided in the server apparatus 200. In the processing described below, the server device 200 performs processing related to image diagnosis in the image diagnosis system 1. The processing related to image diagnosis in the image diagnosis system 1 may be realized by one device such as one server device 200, or may be realized by multiple devices.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an image forming section 100A that forms an image on a sheet P. The image forming unit 100A forms an image on the paper P using, for example, an electrophotographic method. The image forming section 100A is provided with a photosensitive drum 101 as an image carrier.

[0018] Furthermore, the image forming section 100A is provided with a charging device 101C that charges the photosensitive drum 101, an exposure device 102 that exposes the photosensitive drum 101 to light, and a developing device 103 that develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 101 by exposure by the exposure device 102. The developing device 103 is provided with a developing roll 103A disposed opposite the photosensitive drum 101. In this embodiment, the developer adhering to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roll 103A moves to the surface of the photosensitive drum 101, thereby performing development.

[0019] After development, an image made of toner is formed on the photosensitive drum 101. This image is then transferred to a sheet of paper P passing through the image forming unit 100A, and the toner image is fixed to the sheet of paper P in a fixing unit (not shown), forming an image on the sheet of paper P. The image may be transferred from the photosensitive drum 101 to the paper P via an intermediate transfer member (not shown) such as an intermediate transfer belt. Furthermore, the formation of an image on paper P by image forming section 100A is not limited to the electrophotographic method, but may be performed using other methods such as an inkjet method.

[0020] The image forming apparatus 100 is further provided with an image reading unit 130 that reads the image formed on the paper P. The image reading unit 130 is a so-called scanner that has a function of transporting paper P. The image reading unit 130 includes a light source that emits light to be irradiated onto paper, and a light receiving unit such as a CCD that receives light reflected from the paper. In this embodiment, read image data, which will be described later, is generated based on the reflected light received by the light receiving unit. An image reading position is set in advance in the image reading unit 130, and the image reading unit 130 reads the image of the part of the paper that is conveyed in order and that is located at this reading position. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 has an information transmission function for transmitting information to the server apparatus 200 (see FIG. 1).

[0021] 3, an image reading unit 130 is provided on top of the image forming apparatus 100. The image reading unit 130 sequentially reads the sheets of paper P set by the user. The installation mode of the image reading unit 130 is not limited to the mode shown in FIG. 3, and the image reading unit 130 may be provided inside the image forming apparatus 100 and on the transport path of the paper P. In this case, the sheets P on which images have been formed by the image forming section 100A pass through the image reading section 130 in order, and as they pass through, the images on the sheets P are read in order.

[0022] In this embodiment, the image reading unit 130 is provided with a mechanism for reversing the paper P, so that the paper P can be supplied after being turned upside down with respect to the image reading position. As a result, in this embodiment, a sheet of paper P whose image has been read on one side can be inverted and supplied to the reading position again, thereby allowing images on both the front and back sides of the sheet of paper P to be read. Alternatively, when reading the image on paper P, the paper P may be placed on a document table (not shown) made of a plate-shaped glass or the like, and the paper P placed on the document table may be read.

[0023] Furthermore, each image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an operation reception unit 132 that receives operations from a user. This operation reception unit 132 is configured with a so-called touch panel. The operation reception unit 132 displays information to the user and receives operations performed by the user. Note that the display of information to the user and the reception of user operations are not limited to being performed by one operation reception unit 132 as in this embodiment, but an operation reception unit and an information display unit may be provided separately.

[0024] In this embodiment, when an image diagnosis is performed by the image diagnosis system 1 (see FIG. 1), first, as shown by reference numeral 1A in FIG. 1, a sheet of paper P is placed on the image reading unit 130. Then, the image reading unit 130 operates to read the sheet of paper P. As a result, read image data of the sheet of paper P is generated.

[0025] Then, the image forming unit 100A is operated to form the diagnostic image 61 on the paper P. As a result, as shown by reference numeral 1B in FIG. 1, a diagnostic paper CP is produced, which is the paper P on which the diagnostic image 61 is formed. The diagnostic image 61 is an image used for diagnosing the image forming apparatus 100, and in this embodiment, a diagnostic sheet CP is generated, which is a sheet P on which the diagnostic image 61 used for this diagnosis is formed. This diagnostic sheet CP is the sheet on which the image has been formed.

[0026] Once the diagnostic sheet CP is generated, it is placed on the image reading unit 130, as shown by reference symbol 1C in Fig. 1. The image reading unit 130 is then used to read the diagnostic sheet CP on which the diagnostic image 61 is formed. Read image data of the diagnostic sheet CP is generated.

[0027] In this embodiment, the scanned image data of the paper P and the scanned image data of the diagnostic paper CP are transmitted to the server device 200 and stored in the server device 200. The server device 200 performs image diagnosis using the image diagnostic system 1 based on the scanned image data of the paper P and the scanned image data of the diagnostic paper CP. In this embodiment, a user of the image diagnostic system 1 of this embodiment, such as a maintenance person who maintains the image forming apparatus 100, accesses the server device 200 and refers to the results of the diagnosis made by this server device 200.

[0028] 1, the paper P before the diagnostic image 61 is formed is read by the image reading unit 130. As a result, from the read image on the paper P before the image is formed and the read image on the paper P after the image is formed, at least one of defects caused by the paper P, defects caused by the reading, and defects caused by the image formation by the image forming unit 100A is separated from the others and image diagnosis is performed.

[0029] [First diagnostic example] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a first diagnostic example of the image diagnostic system 1 to which this embodiment is applied. This first diagnostic example is an example in which defects caused by the paper P are distinguished from defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A (see FIG. 1). Examples of defects caused by the paper P include foreign matter attached to the paper P, stains on the paper P, and images drawn on the paper P. Examples of defects caused by image formation include lines, streaks, unevenness, and toner stains attached to the paper P. Defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A are caused by, for example, surface defects of the photosensitive drum 101, toner adhesion during paper P transport, toner adhesion during image fixing, and the like. Defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A (see FIG. 1) are sometimes simply referred to as defects caused by image formation.

[0030] In the example shown in FIG. 4, first, the image reading unit 130 (see FIG. 1) reads the paper P before an image is formed, and the read image data of the paper P is transmitted to the server device 200 (see FIG. 1). In this embodiment, the read image data of the paper P before an image is formed is referred to as a "blank image." Here, in this embodiment, the main scanning direction of reading is referred to as x, and the sub-scanning direction is referred to as y. For example, if a defect d1 exists on the paper P, the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 are read by the image reading unit 130. Information regarding the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 in this read blank image is transmitted to the server device 200. Here, the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 are referred to as detection ID1.

[0031] Next, a diagnostic image 61 for image diagnosis is formed by the image forming unit 100A on the paper P that has been read by the image reading unit 130 before an image is formed on it. This is the diagnostic paper CP. The image for image diagnosis that is formed is, for example, an image that serves as a reference for quality evaluation and calibration of the image formed by the image forming unit 100A. This diagnostic paper CP is read by the image reading unit 130, and the read image data of the diagnostic paper CP is transmitted to the server device 200. In this embodiment, the read image data of this diagnostic paper CP is referred to as a "chart image." This chart image is a read image of the paper P after an image has been formed by the image forming unit 100A.

[0032] Here, for example, consider a case where a defect d3 (detection coordinates (x3, y3)) exists due to image formation by the image forming unit 100A. In this case, in addition to the image for image diagnosis, the chart image also includes a defect d1 that originally existed on the paper P and a defect d3 due to image formation. The detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of the defect d3 are read by the image reading unit 130. Information regarding the read detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of the defect d3 is transmitted to the server device 200. Here, the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 are set as detection ID1, and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of the defect d3 are set as detection ID3.

[0033] The server device 200 performs image diagnosis using the transmitted blank image and the transmitted chart image. First, the server device 200 can recognize a defect d1 caused by the paper P using the transmitted blank image. Then, the server device 200 removes the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 caused by the paper P recognized using the blank image from the coordinate list of the transmitted chart image. Then, the server device 200 identifies a defect d3 that does not exist in the image for the original image diagnosis. This first diagnosis example allows image diagnosis to be performed in a state where defects caused by the paper P and defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A are distinguished from each other. Note that in FIG. 4, defects caused by the paper P are simply referred to as paper defects, and defects caused by image formation are simply referred to as image defects, and these terms may be omitted in the following figures as well.

[0034] [Second diagnostic example] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a second diagnostic example of the image diagnostic system 1 to which this embodiment is applied. This second diagnostic example is an example in which defects caused by image reading by the image reading unit 130 (see FIG. 1) are distinguished from defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A (see FIG. 1). For example, defects caused by reading include dirt on the platen or the reading surface of the sensor, and defects in the sensor itself. These defects appear as omissions or unevenness in the read image. Note that defects caused by image reading by the image reading unit 130 may be simply referred to as defects caused by reading.

[0035] In the example shown in FIG. 5, first, the image reading unit 130 reads the paper P before an image is formed on it, and a blank image, which is the read image data of the paper P, is transmitted to the server device 200 (see FIG. 1). Here, if there is a defect d2 caused by the reading, for example, the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of the defect d2 appear in the blank image. Information regarding the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of the defect d2 is transmitted to the server device 200. Here, the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of the defect d2 are set as detection ID2.

[0036] Next, a diagnostic image 61 for image diagnosis is formed by the image forming unit 100A on a sheet of paper P that has been read by the image reading unit 130 before an image is formed. This is the diagnostic sheet CP. The diagnostic sheet CP is read by the image reading unit 130, and a chart image, which is the read image data of the diagnostic sheet CP, is transmitted to the server device 200. Here, for example, consider a case where a defect d3 (detection coordinates (x3, y3)) caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A is present. In this case, in addition to the image for image diagnosis, the chart image also contains a defect d2 caused by reading and a defect d3 caused by image formation. Information regarding the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of defect d2 and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of defect d3 is transmitted to the server device 200. Here, the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of defect d2 are designated as detection ID2, and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of defect d3 are designated as detection ID3.

[0037] The server device 200 performs image diagnosis using the transmitted blank image and the transmitted chart image. First, the server device 200 can recognize the defect d2 caused by reading using the transmitted blank image. Then, the server device 200 removes the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of the defect d2 caused by reading, which was recognized using the blank image, from the coordinate list of the transmitted chart image. Then, the server device 200 identifies the defect d2 caused by reading. This second diagnosis example distinguishes between the defect d2 caused by reading the image by the image reading unit 130 and the defect d3 caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A, and performs image diagnosis. Note that in FIG. 5, defects caused by reading are simply referred to as reading defects, and defects caused by image formation are simply referred to as image defects, and these terms may be omitted in the following figures as well.

[0038] [Third diagnostic example] 6 is a diagram illustrating a third diagnostic example of the image diagnostic system 1 to which this embodiment is applied. This third diagnostic example is an example in which defects caused by the paper P, defects caused by reading, and defects caused by image formation are separated by rotating the paper P and changing the reading direction of the paper P.

[0039] In the example shown in FIG. 6, first, the image reading unit 130 (see FIG. 1) reads the paper P before an image is formed on it, and a blank image, which is the read image data of the paper P, is transmitted to the server device 200 (see FIG. 1). Here, if there is a defect d1 caused by the paper P and a defect d2 caused by the reading, the defects d1 and d2 appear in the blank image. Then, information regarding the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 and the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of the defect d2 is transmitted to the server device 200. Here, the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 are set as detection ID1. Furthermore, the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of the defect d2 are set as detection ID2.

[0040] Next, a diagnostic image 61 for image diagnosis is formed by the image forming unit 100A (see FIG. 1) on the sheet P that has been read by the image reading unit 130 before the image is formed. This is the diagnostic sheet CP. The reading direction of this diagnostic sheet CP is changed from the reading direction of the sheet P, and the diagnostic sheet CP is read. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the diagnostic sheet CP is read by the image reading unit 130 in a state where the reading direction of the diagnostic sheet CP is rotated 90 degrees from the reading direction of the sheet P. A chart image, which is the read image data of this diagnostic sheet CP, is then transmitted to the server device 200. Here, for example, consider a case where a defect d3 (detection coordinates (x3, y3)) caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A exists. In this case, in addition to the image for image diagnosis, the chart image includes a defect d1 that was originally present on the sheet P, a defect d2 caused by reading, and a defect d3 caused by image formation. Here, defect d1 is located at detection coordinates (x1', y1') that differ from the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the blank image because the reading direction of diagnostic sheet CP is rotated 90 degrees from the reading direction of sheet P. Note that server device 200 can recognize that the reading direction has been rotated 90 degrees from the size information of the blank image and the chart image. For example, if the blank image has an A4 portrait image size and the chart image has an A4 landscape image size, it can recognize that the image has been rotated 90 degrees from the difference in size between the two (difference between portrait and landscape).

[0041] Then, the detection coordinates (x1', y1') of defect d1 and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of defect d3 are read by the image reading unit 130, and information about these coordinates, including the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of defect d2 resulting from the reading, is sent as a chart image to the server device 200. Here, the detection coordinates (x1', y1') of defect d1 are detection ID1, the detection coordinates (x2, y2) of defect d2 are detection ID2, and the detection coordinates (x3, y3) of defect d3 are detection ID3.

[0042] The server device 200 performs image diagnosis using the transmitted blank image and chart image. The server device 200 can first identify a defect d1 caused by the paper P and a defect d2 caused by reading the paper P using the transmitted blank image and chart image. More specifically, a defect that exists at the same position in both the blank image and the chart image even when the paper P is rotated 90 degrees can be determined to be a defect d2 caused by reading the paper P. This defect d2 is distinguished from defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A. Here, the defect d2 has detection coordinates (x2, y2). Furthermore, the coordinate position of the detection coordinates (x1, y1) of the defect d1 caused by the paper P recognized from the blank image is converted to the position (x1', y1') when rotated 90 degrees. The defect at the detection coordinates (x1', y1') of the chart image, which is the same position as the converted coordinates (x1', y1'), is determined to be a defect d1 caused by the paper P, and is distinguished from defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A. Then, the defects d1 and d2 determined as described above are distinguished, and the other existing defect d3 is determined to be a defect caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A.

[0043] In this third diagnosis example, image diagnosis is performed in a state where defects caused by reading by the image reading unit 130, defects caused by the image by the image forming unit 100A, and defects caused by the paper P are separated.

[0044] 7(a) to 7(c) are diagrams for explaining the above-mentioned separation in the third diagnostic example. FIG. 7(a) is a diagram for explaining information on defects present in a blank image. FIG. 7(b) is a diagram for explaining information on defects present in a chart image. Furthermore, FIG. 7(c) is a diagram for explaining the criteria for separating each defect using the chart image.

[0045] In the example shown in Figure 7(a), the blank image has detection ID1 corresponding to defect d1 and detection ID2 corresponding to defect d2. Detection ID1 has detection coordinates (x1, y1), and detection ID2 has detection coordinates (x2, y2). The reading direction of the blank image obtained here is 0 degrees.

[0046] In the example shown in FIG. 7(b), the chart image has detection ID1 corresponding to defect d1, detection ID2 corresponding to defect d2, and detection ID3 corresponding to defect d3. The reading direction of the chart image obtained here is rotated 90 degrees with respect to the reading direction of the blank image. Detection ID1 has detection coordinates (x1', y1'), and detection ID2 has detection coordinates (x2, y2). Detection ID3 has detection coordinates (x3, y3). Here, the detection coordinates for detection ID1 are expressed as (x1', y1') rather than (x1, y1). This is because the reading direction of the chart image is different from the reading direction of the blank image, and the detection coordinates of detection ID1 corresponding to defect d1 differ between the blank image and the chart image.

[0047] In the example shown in Fig. 7(c), when each defect is separated using the chart image in this third diagnosis example, the presence or absence of a defect in the blank image is first determined. If a defect is "present" in the blank image, the defect type is determined based on the detection coordinates of the defect in the chart image. If a defect is "absent" in the blank image, it is determined that all defects in the chart image are defects caused by image formation by the image forming unit 100A.

[0048] If a defect is "present" in the blank image, and (i) the detection coordinates of the defect are the same in the blank image and the chart image, it can be determined that the defect is caused by reading. If the detection coordinates of the defect in the blank image and the chart image (ii) match when converted corresponding to a 90-degree rotation, it can be determined that the defect was originally present on the paper P. If a defect is "present" in the blank image, and any defect other than (i) and (ii) is determined to be a defect caused by image formation. These defects other than (i) and (ii) are defects excluding those in which the detection coordinates of the defect are the same in the blank image and the chart image, or the detection coordinates are the same after conversion.

[0049] [Fourth diagnostic example] 8 is a diagram illustrating a fourth diagnostic example of the image diagnostic system 1 to which this embodiment is applied. This fourth diagnostic example is an example in which defects caused by the paper P, defects caused by reading, and defects caused by image formation are separated by reading multiple sheets of paper P.

[0050] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the image reading unit 130 (see FIG. 1) sequentially reads a plurality of sheets P before images are formed, and a plurality of blank images, which are the read image data of the plurality of sheets P, are transmitted to the server device 200 (see FIG. 1). Here, if there is a defect d2 caused by reading by the image reading unit 130, the defect d2 with the same detection coordinates (x2, y2) exists in all of the plurality of blank images. The detection ID of this defect d2 is 2. On the other hand, if different defects occur in each blank image, these different defects can be said to be defects present in each individual sheet P before images are formed. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the sheet P that is read first has detection coordinates (x1, y1) of a defect d1 caused by the sheet P, and the sheet P that is read second has detection coordinates (x11, y11) of a defect d11 caused by the sheet P. Note that the detection ID of defect d1 is 1, and the detection ID of defect d11 is 11.

[0051] In this way, multiple sheets of paper P are read in sequence before images are formed, and blank images of the multiple sheets of paper P are obtained, making it possible to distinguish between defects that exist on individual sheets of paper P before images are formed, and defects that are caused by reading by the image reading unit 130.

[0052] Next, a plurality of diagnostic sheets CP are generated by image forming unit 100A on which diagnostic images 61 for image diagnosis are formed from a plurality of sheets P that have been read by image reading unit 130 (see FIG. 1) before images are formed. In this case, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the order in which diagnostic sheets CP are generated by image forming unit 100A matches the order in which the blank images are read.

[0053] The diagnostic sheets CP are then read by the image reading unit 130, forming multiple chart images, which are then transmitted to the server device 200. At this time, the reading order of the diagnostic sheets CP is made to match the order in which the diagnostic sheets CP were generated by the image forming unit 100A. By matching this reading order, the order of the multiple sheets P before the diagnostic image 61 is formed and the order of the multiple sheets P after the diagnostic image 61 is formed can be recognized.

[0054] The server device 200 acquires a plurality of blank images and a plurality of chart images in the same order. If a defect d3 resulting from image formation by the image forming unit 100A exists, defects d3, d33, ... with detection coordinates (x3, y3), (x33, y33), ... exist for each of the plurality of chart images. The IDs of these defects d3, d33, ... are 3, 33, ..., respectively. In this way, defect d1 and defect d2 are distinguished, and other defects d3, d33, ... are determined to be defects resulting from image formation by the image forming unit 100A. Note that the coordinates of defects d3, d33, ... resulting from image formation do not necessarily match across a plurality of sheets of paper P because, for example, the cycle of the photosensitive drum 101 and the length of the paper P do not necessarily match.

[0055] [Fifth diagnostic example] 9 is a diagram illustrating a fifth diagnostic example of the image diagnostic system 1 to which this embodiment is applied. In addition to the configuration of the fourth diagnostic example, this fifth diagnostic example is an example in which identification information is assigned to each sheet P of a plurality of sheets P.

[0056] In the example shown in FIG. 9, identification information is assigned to each sheet P before image formation. The identification information is used to distinguish one sheet P from other sheets P. The server device 200 (see FIG. 1) assigns a sheet ID based on the identification information assigned to the transmitted blank image and chart image. As a result, even if the reading order of the sheets P and the reading order of the diagnostic sheet CP are changed, the blank image and the chart image can be associated with each other based on the identification information and diagnosed. Note that the image diagnosis is performed in the same manner as in the fourth diagnostic example. Note that in FIG. 9, the sheet ID of the first sheet P is 1, and the sheet ID of the second sheet P is 2.

[0057] It should be noted that the identification information may be used not only in the fourth diagnostic example but also in each diagnostic example described in this embodiment. The reading direction of the paper P may also be recognized based on the identification information. For example, in the third embodiment, by adding identification information to the paper P, the reading direction of the paper P may be recognized based on the position of the identification information.

[0058] [Processing flow in the server device 200] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of image diagnosis in the server device 200 (see FIG. 1). The process here is executed by a CPU 11a (see FIG. 2) as an example of a processor provided in the server device 200. The server device 200 first acquires a blank image, which is an example of a first scanned image, and a chart image, which is an example of a second scanned image, from the image forming device 100 (see FIG. 1) via the communication line 190 (see FIG. 1) (step 101). The server device 200 then determines the scanning direction of the blank image and the chart image (step 102). For example, the server device 200 determines whether the scanning direction is the same or rotated 90 degrees. Next, the server device 200 acquires the detection coordinates of each defect present in the blank image and the chart image (step 103). Next, the server device 200 converts the detection coordinates of the defect in the blank image or the defect in the chart image based on the scanning direction of the blank image and the chart image (step 104). Then, the server device 200 performs image diagnosis based on the detection coordinates of the defects in the blank image, the detection coordinates of the defects in the chart image, and the converted detection coordinates, and distinguishes and judges each defect present in the blank image and the chart image (step 105). This distinguishes, for example, whether the defect is caused by the paper P, a defect caused by reading, or a defect caused by image formation.

[0059] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for switching the above-mentioned process depending on the mode based on information about the type of paper P. First, the server device 200 (see FIG. 1) acquires information about the type of paper P from the image forming device 100 via the communication line 190 (see FIG. 1) (step 201). This information about the type of paper P is, for example, information input by the user via the operation reception unit 132 (see FIG. 3) of the image forming device 100 (see FIG. 1). Then, the CPU 11a of the server device 200 determines, from the acquired information about the type of paper P, whether or not it is preferable to perform a reading process of the paper P before an image is formed (hereinafter abbreviated as "blank paper scan") when performing image diagnosis (step 202). For example, it is determined whether or not the paper P is a type of paper that is prone to defects, such as recycled paper.

[0060] In step 202, if the paper is a blank scan target paper (YES in step 202), the server device 200 sets the image diagnosis processing to be performed in blank scan mode (step 203), and transmits information to the image forming device 100 via the communication line 190 that image diagnosis will be performed in blank scan mode. In the image forming device 100, information to the effect that image diagnosis will be performed in blank scan mode is displayed on the operation reception unit 132 to guide the user. Then, image diagnosis processing in blank scan mode is performed (step 204), and the image diagnosis processing ends. Note that the blank scan mode is a mode in which a blank scan is performed and image diagnosis is performed based on the blank image and the chart image.

[0061] In step 202, if the paper is not a blank sheet to be scanned (NO in step 202), the server device 200 sets the image forming device 100 to perform image diagnosis processing in normal mode (step 205), and transmits information indicating that the normal mode will be set to the image forming device 100 via the communication line 190. In the image forming device 100, information indicating that image diagnosis will be performed in normal mode is displayed on the operation reception unit 132 to guide the user. Then, image diagnosis processing in normal mode is performed (step 206), and the image diagnosis processing ends. Note that the normal mode is a mode in which image diagnosis is performed based on a chart image without performing a blank scan.

[0062] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for switching the above-mentioned process depending on the mode based on information about the required quality. First, server device 200 (see FIG. 1) acquires information about the required quality from image forming apparatus 100 via communication line 190 (see FIG. 1) (step 301). This information about the required quality is, for example, information input by the user via operation reception unit 132 (see FIG. 3) of image forming apparatus 100 (see FIG. 1). Then, CPU 11a of server device 200 determines whether the required quality is high or not based on the acquired information about the required quality (step 302).

[0063] If the required quality is high in step 302 (YES in step 302), the server device 200 sets the image diagnosis processing to be performed in blank scan mode (step 303), and transmits information to the image forming device 100 via the communication line 190 that the image diagnosis will be performed in blank scan mode. In the image forming device 100, information to the effect that the image diagnosis will be performed in blank scan mode is displayed on the operation reception unit 132 (see FIG. 3) to guide the user. Then, the image diagnosis processing in blank scan mode is performed (step 304), and the image diagnosis processing ends.

[0064] If the required quality is low in step 302 (NO in step 302), the server device 200 sets the image diagnosis processing to be performed in the normal mode (step 305) and transmits information indicating that the normal mode will be set to the image forming device 100 via the communication line 190. In the image forming device 100, information indicating that the image diagnosis will be performed in the normal mode is displayed on the operation reception unit 132 to guide the user. Then, the image diagnosis processing in the normal mode is performed (step 306), and the image diagnosis processing ends.

[0065] As described above in detail, in this embodiment, image diagnosis is performed by distinguishing between defects caused by the paper P, defects caused by reading, and defects caused by image formation based on the detected coordinates of the blank image and the detected coordinates of the chart image.

[0066] In this embodiment, the same image reading unit 130 reads the paper P before the diagnostic image 61 is formed and the diagnostic paper CP after the diagnostic image 61 is formed. Furthermore, when performing diagnosis on multiple papers P, each paper is also read by the same image reading unit 130. When isolating defects, in the example described above, it is assumed that there is no deviation in the reading position by the image reading unit 130 and that the images are aligned at the same position. However, in reality, there may be some deviation in position. In such cases, it is possible to take this deviation into consideration and address the issue by, for example, correcting the position.

[0067] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the image diagnosis processing is executed by the server device 200, but it is also possible to distribute each process and execute the processing by multiple processors. For example, an example in which the image diagnosis processing is executed by multiple processors in the server device 200 and the image forming device 100, or an example in which the functions of the server device 200 are executed by multiple devices, can be given.

[0068] [Note] (((1))) The paper is read before an image is formed by the image forming device, reading the paper after an image for diagnostic imaging has been formed by the image forming device; performing image diagnosis by separating at least one of defects caused by the paper, defects caused by reading, and defects caused by image formation from the read image on the paper before the image is formed and the read image on the paper after the image is formed; An imaging diagnostic system characterized by: (((2))) The image diagnostic system described in (((1))) performs image diagnosis by separating defects caused by the paper or defects caused by the reading from defects caused by the image formation based on a read image of the paper before the image is formed and a read image of the paper after the image is formed. (((3))) The image diagnosis system described in (((1))) or (((2))) is characterized in that the image diagnosis is performed using a scanned image of the paper with the reading direction of the paper changed, thereby further separating defects caused by the paper from defects caused by the reading. (((4))) The paper is provided with identification information that distinguishes the paper from others, The image diagnostic system according to (((3))) is characterized in that the reading direction is recognized based on the identification information and image diagnosis is performed. (((5))) reading the plurality of sheets of paper before the image is formed in order; reading the plurality of sheets of paper after the images have been formed in a state in which the order can be recognized; The image diagnostic system according to (((1))) is characterized in that image diagnosis is performed by separating defects caused by the paper, defects caused by the reading, and defects caused by the image formation. (((6))) Identification information for distinguishing one sheet from the other sheets is given to the plurality of sheets before the image is formed thereon; The diagnostic imaging system according to (((5))) is characterized in that the plurality of sheets of paper on which the images have been formed are read in a state in which the order can be recognized using the identification information. (((7))) an image forming unit that forms an image for diagnostic imaging on a sheet of paper; an image reading unit that reads the paper before the image is formed by the image forming unit and the paper after the image is formed by the image forming unit; an image diagnosis unit that performs image diagnosis by isolating defects caused by the paper from a read image of the paper before the image read by the image reading unit is formed and a read image of the paper after the image is formed; An imaging diagnostic system having: (((8))) one or more processors; the one or more processors: A first read image is obtained by reading a sheet before an image is formed by an image forming apparatus; a second read image is obtained by reading the paper after the image has been formed by the image forming device; performing image diagnosis by separating defects caused by the paper from the first read image and the second read image; An imaging diagnostic system characterized by:

[0069] According to the image diagnostic system according to (((1))), it is possible to prevent noise on paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect in the image diagnostic system. According to the image diagnostic system of (((2))), defects caused by paper or image reading and defects caused by image formation can be distinguished with a simple operation. According to the image diagnostic system of (((3))), defects caused by the paper and defects caused by reading can be distinguished by a simple operation such as changing the reading direction. According to the image diagnostic system of (((4))), the user can read the paper without being conscious of the reading direction of the paper. According to the image diagnostic system of (((5))), noise on the paper can be distinguished from image defects by reading multiple sheets of paper. According to the image diagnostic system of (((6))), compared to a case where identification information is not attached to the paper, even if the paper before and after an image is formed are read in a state where the reading order of the paper is changed, it is possible to identify individual paper. According to the image diagnostic system of (((7))), it is possible to prevent noise on the paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect. According to the image diagnostic system according to (((8))), it is possible to prevent noise on paper from being erroneously detected as an image defect in the image diagnostic system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 100... image forming apparatus, 100A... image forming unit, 130... image reading unit, 200... server device

Claims

1. The paper is read before an image is formed by the image forming device, reading the paper after an image for diagnostic imaging has been formed by the image forming device; performing image diagnosis by separating at least one of defects caused by the paper, defects caused by reading, and defects caused by image formation from the read image on the paper before the image is formed and the read image on the paper after the image is formed; An imaging diagnostic system characterized by:

2. 2. The image diagnostic system according to claim 1, wherein image diagnosis is performed by separating defects caused by the paper or defects caused by the reading from defects caused by the image formation based on a read image of the paper before the image is formed and a read image of the paper after the image is formed.

3. The image diagnostic system according to claim 2, characterized in that the image diagnosis is performed using a scanned image of the paper with the reading direction of the paper changed, thereby further separating defects caused by the paper from defects caused by the reading.

4. The paper is provided with identification information that distinguishes the paper from others, 4. The image diagnostic system according to claim 3, wherein the reading direction is recognized based on the identification information to perform image diagnosis.

5. reading the plurality of sheets of paper before the image is formed in order; reading the plurality of sheets of paper after the images have been formed in a state in which the order can be recognized; 2. The image diagnostic system according to claim 1, wherein image diagnosis is performed by separating defects caused by the paper, defects caused by the reading, and defects caused by the image formation.

6. Identification information for distinguishing one sheet from the other sheets is given to the plurality of sheets before the image is formed thereon; 6. The image diagnostic system according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of sheets of paper on which the images have been formed are read in a state in which the order can be recognized using the identification information.

7. an image forming unit that forms an image for diagnostic imaging on a sheet of paper; an image reading unit that reads the paper before the image is formed by the image forming unit and the paper after the image is formed by the image forming unit; an image diagnosis unit that performs image diagnosis by isolating defects caused by the paper from a read image of the paper before the image read by the image reading unit is formed and a read image of the paper after the image is formed; An imaging diagnostic system having:

8. one or more processors; the one or more processors: A first read image is obtained by reading a sheet before an image is formed by an image forming apparatus; a second read image is obtained by reading the paper after the image has been formed by the image forming device; performing image diagnosis by separating defects caused by the paper from the first read image and the second read image; An imaging diagnostic system characterized by:

Images