Information processing system, information processing program, and inspection device

Abstract

To enable an inspection device, which reads an image formed by an image forming device and inspects the image, to perform inspection in consideration of information on non-discharge correction.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes a processor that transmits correction information related to the non-discharge correction to an inspection device that reads and inspects the image formed by the image forming apparatus when performing the non-discharge correction, which increases the discharge amount of nozzles adjacent to non-discharging nozzles in an image forming apparatus that forms images by discharging droplets from multiple nozzles based on image data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing program, and an inspection device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a recording device having a recording head with a plurality of nozzles that eject ink and a transport means that transports the recording medium, and that uses the recording head to continuously record a plurality of images in the transport direction of the recording medium, and that is characterized by having a test pattern recording means that uses the recording head to record each of a plurality of test patterns for detecting ejection defects of the recording head between images, a reading means that reads the plurality of test patterns, and a sorting means that sorts the plurality of images into a state where there is continuous ejection defect, a state where there is occasional ejection defect, or a state where there is normal ejection, based on the results of inspection of the plurality of test patterns read by the reading means.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses an image inspection device that includes: a read image acquisition unit that acquires read image data obtained by reading, with an image reading device, a pattern for detecting faulty nozzles that has been recorded in a first area of ​​a recording medium using a single-pass inkjet printing device, and a printed image that has been recorded using the inkjet printing device in a second area of ​​the recording medium that is different from the first area; a faulty nozzle detection processing unit that analyzes the data of the first read image, which is the read image of the faulty nozzle detection pattern, and detects faulty nozzles in a line-type inkjet head that was used to record the pattern for detecting faulty nozzles; a history information storage unit that stores a history of the faulty nozzle detection results obtained by the faulty nozzle detection processing unit; an image defect detection processing unit that analyzes the data of the second read image, which is the read image of the printed image, and detects image defects in the printed image; and a faulty nozzle identification processing unit that collates information about the image defects detected by the image defect detection processing unit with history information stored in the history information storage unit to identify the faulty nozzle that caused the image defect.

[0004] Patent document 3 discloses a control device comprising: a first determination means for determining whether a defect has occurred in an image based on print data printed on a sheet by a printing unit having a print head with a nozzle row aligned in a direction intersecting the sheet transport direction; a first instruction means for instructing a print control means that controls the printing unit to print a test pattern if the first determination means determines that a defect has occurred in the image; a second determination means for determining whether a defect has occurred in the test pattern printed on a sheet by the printing unit based on an instruction from the instruction means; and a second instruction means for instructing the print control means to stop printing by the printing unit if the second determination means determines that a defect has occurred in the test pattern. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-252691 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-51846 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-110294 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One possible inspection device is one that reads an image formed by an image forming apparatus ejecting droplets from multiple nozzles and inspects the image. With this type of inspection device, when the image forming apparatus performs non-ejection correction to increase the ejection amount of nozzles adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle, it is not possible to perform inspection taking into account information related to the non-ejection correction.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to enable an inspection device that reads an image formed by an image forming device and inspects the image to perform the inspection while taking into account information related to non-ejection correction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first aspect includes a processor, and when performing non-discharge correction to increase the discharge volume of a nozzle adjacent to a non-discharge nozzle in an image forming device that forms an image by discharging droplets from multiple nozzles based on image data, the processor transmits correction information regarding the non-discharge correction to an inspection device that reads the image formed by the image forming device and inspects the image.

[0009] In the second aspect, in the first aspect, the correction information includes information indicating the execution of the non-ejection correction and information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle.

[0010] In a third aspect, in the second aspect, the correction information includes information indicating an inspection accuracy set by a user.

[0011] In a fourth aspect, in the first aspect, when an inspection mode based on the non-discharge correction is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device, the processor transmits correction information regarding the non-discharge correction to the inspection device.

[0012] In a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, when normal inspection is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device, the processor does not transmit the correction information to the inspection device.

[0013] In a sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the processor notifies a user of the set inspection mode through a notification unit.

[0014] A seventh aspect is an information processing program for causing a computer to execute a process for transmitting correction information regarding non-ejection correction to an inspection device that reads an image formed by the image forming device and inspects the image when non-ejection correction is performed to increase the ejection volume of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle in an image forming device that forms an image by ejecting droplets from multiple nozzles based on image data.

[0015] In an eighth aspect, an image forming device that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data includes a reading unit that reads the formed image, and an inspection unit that inspects the image read by the reading unit based on the image data, and when non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming device to increase the ejection volume of nozzles adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle, the inspection unit performs the inspection after obtaining information regarding the non-ejection correction.

[0016] In a ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the inspection section performs inspection with reduced inspection accuracy when the non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming apparatus. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the configuration of the first aspect, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into account information related to non-ejection correction.

[0018] According to the configuration of the second aspect, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into consideration information indicating the execution of non-ejection correction and information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle.

[0019] According to the configuration of the third aspect, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into consideration information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user.

[0020] According to the configuration of the fourth aspect, when an inspection mode based on non-ejection correction is set, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into account information related to non-ejection correction.

[0021] According to the configuration of the fifth aspect, it is possible to suppress unnecessary transmission of correction information to the inspection device, compared to when the processor always transmits correction information to the inspection device.

[0022] According to the configuration of the sixth aspect, the user can recognize the set inspection mode.

[0023] According to the configuration of the seventh aspect, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into consideration information related to non-ejection correction.

[0024] According to the configuration of the eighth aspect, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into consideration information related to non-ejection correction.

[0025] According to the configuration of the ninth aspect, regardless of whether non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming apparatus, inspection defects are reduced compared to when inspection is performed with a constant inspection accuracy. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an input screen according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a control device in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the inspection apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a result display screen according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a result display screen according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a control device in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a transmission process executed in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an inspection process executed in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] An example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0028] <Image forming system 10> An image forming system 10 according to this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0029] Image forming system 10 is an example of an information processing system, and is a system that forms an image on a recording medium such as paper. As shown in FIG. 1, image forming system 10 includes an image processing system 12, an image forming device 14, and an inspection device 50. The image includes characters and an image portion. The image portion is a portion other than characters, and includes a portion (e.g., a solid image) having an area equal to or larger than a predetermined area or width.

[0030] As shown in Fig. 1, each unit of the image forming system 10 is connected by a communication line 13. The communication line 13 is, for example, a wired or wireless communication line. Specifically, various networks such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet can be used as the communication line 13. Each unit of the image forming system 10 will be described below.

[0031] <Image Processing System 12> The image processing system 12 performs a conversion process to convert first image data transmitted from a user terminal (not shown) into second image data that can be used for image formation in the image forming device 14.

[0032] Specifically, the image processing system 12 performs a bitmap process (e.g., rasterization process) on the PDL data as the first image, and then performs a conversion process to convert it into RIP data as the second image data. This RIP data is data expressed as bitmap data.

[0033] The PDL data is data written in a page description language (PDL) that can be interpreted by the image processing system 12 and the image forming device 14. The page description language is a computer programming language for executing image processing and the like in the image processing system 12 and the image forming device 14. There are various formats for page description languages, such as the PS (PostScript (registered trademark)) format.

[0034] Then, the image processing system 12 transmits the RIP data generated by the above conversion process to the image forming apparatus 14 via the communication line 13.

[0035] <Image forming device 14> The image forming device 14 is a device that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data. Specifically, the image forming device 14 is configured as an inkjet recording device that forms an image by ejecting ink droplets from a plurality of nozzles 32A onto a recording medium P based on RIP data transmitted from the image processing system 12.

[0036] The conversion process for converting PDL data into RIP data may be executed by the image forming apparatus 14. In this case, the image forming apparatus 14 forms an image based on the RIP data generated by its own conversion process.

[0037] 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 14 includes a conveying unit 31, a discharge unit 32, and a control device 20. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 14 includes a communication interface 33, an input unit 34, and a display unit 35, as shown in FIG.

[0038] Paper, film, and other recording media can be used as the recording medium P. Furthermore, continuous paper such as sheets of paper (so-called cut paper) and rolled paper can be used as the recording medium P. Furthermore, types of paper such as plain paper and cardboard can be used.

[0039] The transport unit 31 is a component that transports the recording medium P. Specifically, the transport unit 31 has a transport member 31A that is made up of a pair of transport rolls. Note that the transport unit may also have transport members such as a transport belt and a transport drum, for example.

[0040] The ejection unit 32 ejects ink droplets from a plurality of nozzles 32A onto the recording medium P transported by the transport unit 31. The ejection unit 32 has ejection heads (not shown) corresponding to the respective colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), for example, and ejects ink droplets of each color from the ejection heads onto the recording medium P. Note that the ejection unit 32 may also be configured to have an ejection head that ejects ink of a single color (for example, black).

[0041] The ejection unit 32 ejects ink droplets from the nozzles 32A using a known method such as a thermal method, a piezoelectric method, etc. The ink used in the ejection unit 32 includes, for example, water-based ink and oil-based ink.

[0042] When there is a non-ejecting nozzle 32B that does not eject ink droplets among the multiple nozzles 32A, the ejection unit 32 can perform non-ejection correction to increase the ejection amount of an adjacent nozzle 32C that is adjacent to the non-ejecting nozzle 32B. The adjacent nozzle 32C is a nozzle that is adjacent to the non-ejecting nozzle 32B in the transport direction or width direction (direction intersecting the transport direction) of the recording medium P.

[0043] In the image forming device 14, an identification process is executed to identify the non-ejecting nozzles 32B. In the identification process, ink droplets are ejected from the multiple nozzles 32A to form a test image in advance, and the non-ejecting nozzles 32B are identified from the positions of blank areas in the test image. Position information indicating the positions of the non-ejecting nozzles 32B identified by the identification process is stored, for example, in the storage 24 described below.

[0044] The communication interface 33 is a connection unit for communicating with other devices (for example, the image processing system 12 and the inspection device 50). Specifically, the communication interface 33 communicates with other devices through the communication line 13 using at least one of a wired and wireless method.

[0045] The display unit 35 is an example of a notification unit, and notifies the user of the presentation information by displaying the presentation information to be presented to the user. The display unit 35 is, for example, configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or the like.

[0046] The input unit 34 is a component into which instructions and condition settings by the user are input. In this embodiment, the input unit 34 is configured as a touch panel integrated with the display unit 35. The touch panel is configured as, for example, a resistive touch panel or a capacitive touch panel, and input by the user is performed by touching the touch panel.

[0047] An instruction from the user may be an instruction to execute a job relating to a process that can be executed by the image forming device 14. Such a process may be, for example, an image forming process for forming an image on a recording medium P. A job is a processing unit of an operation that is executed by a single instruction from the user.

[0048] The user can also set various conditions through the input unit 34. For example, the user can set the type of recording medium P on which the image is to be formed (for example, plain paper, thick paper, etc.).

[0049] In this embodiment, the execution of non-discharge correction in the discharge unit 32 is linked to a specific type of recording medium P (for example, plain paper), and non-discharge correction is executed when that type is set. Note that the user may be able to set whether or not to execute non-discharge correction via the input unit 34.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an input screen 100 (see FIG. 3) on which the inspection mode and inspection accuracy of the inspection device 50 can be input can be displayed on the display unit 35 as the input unit 34.

[0051] Here, the inspection device 50 is a device that inspects images formed by the image forming device 14, and is capable of performing an inspection mode based on non-discharge correction (hereinafter referred to as non-discharge correction inspection) and a normal inspection. The non-discharge correction inspection is an inspection mode that takes non-discharge correction in the image forming device 14 into consideration, and is performed with lower inspection accuracy than the normal inspection.

[0052] On the aforementioned input screen 100 (see FIG. 3), it is possible to set whether or not to perform a non-discharge correction test in the inspection device 50. For example, by making an input into a check box 102 on the input screen 100, it is possible to set the execution of a non-discharge correction test. By making no input into the check box 102, a normal test is set. In this way, the input into the check box 102 indicates whether or not to perform a non-discharge correction test (normal test). Therefore, the input screen 100 functions as a notification unit that notifies the user of the set test mode.

[0053] Furthermore, when the execution of the non-ejection correction inspection is set, the inspection accuracy for characters can be set. As the inspection accuracy, the tolerance for character bleeding can be set. By setting the tolerance, characters with bleeding of that tolerance will be allowed in the image inspection. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the tolerance is set by moving the operation bar 104 left and right. At this time, the characters displayed on the input screen 100 ("Example" in FIG. 3) may be displayed bleeding in accordance with the set tolerance.

[0054] The input unit 34 may be configured with input keys (for example, a keyboard and operation buttons) that are operated by the user to perform input operations.

[0055] The control device 20 is a device that controls each part of the image forming device 14. The control device 20 has the functions of a computer, and as shown in Fig. 2, has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 22, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 23, and a storage 24. The CPU 21, the ROM 22, the RAM 23, and the storage 24 are each connected to one another by a bus 29.

[0056] The CPU 21 is a central processing unit that executes various programs, including an information processing program, and controls each part. The CPU 21 is an example of a processor. The ROM 22 stores various programs, including the information processing program, and various data. The RAM 23 temporarily stores programs or data as a working area.

[0057] The storage 24 is configured with one or more storage media such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory, and stores various programs including an operating system and various data. Note that the information processing program may also be stored in the storage 24.

[0058] In the control device 20, the CPU 21 reads various programs including an information processing program from the ROM 22 or the storage 24, and executes the programs using the RAM 23 as a work area. The CPU 21 executes the information processing program to realize various functions.

[0059] In the control device 20, the CPU 21 executes an information processing program to function as an acquisition unit 41 and a processing unit 42 as shown in FIG.

[0060] The acquisition unit 41 acquires instructions and condition setting information input by the user via the input unit 34. The instructions include, for example, an execution instruction to cause the image forming device 14 to execute an image formation process. The acquisition unit 41 also acquires information related to non-discharge correction (hereinafter referred to as correction information). The correction information includes execution information indicating the execution of non-discharge correction in the image forming device 14, position information indicating the position of the non-discharge nozzle 32B, accuracy information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user, and the like.

[0061] In this embodiment, whether or not to perform non-discharge correction is set by setting the type of recording medium P, and the above-mentioned execution information is acquired based on this. As described above, the position information is saved in the storage 24 by the specification process and acquired from the storage 24. Note that this position information can also be said to be position information indicating the position where non-discharge correction is to be performed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inspection accuracy is set on the input screen 100, and the above-mentioned accuracy information is acquired based on this.

[0062] When non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming apparatus 14, the processing unit 42 executes processing to transmit correction information to the inspection apparatus 50. Specifically, the processing unit 42 executes a transmission process, which will be described later.

[0063] <Inspection device 50> The inspection device 50 is a device that inspects the image formed by the image forming device 14. As shown in Fig. 1, the inspection device 50 has a stand 51, an image reading unit 52, and a control device 60. Furthermore, the image forming device 14 has a communication interface 53, an input unit 54, and a display unit 55, as shown in Fig. 5.

[0064] The table 51 is a component on which a recording medium P on which an image has been formed by the image forming device 14 is placed. The recording medium P is placed on the table 51 with the image formed on the recording medium P facing the image reading unit 52 side (upper side in FIG. 1).

[0065] The image reading unit 52 is an example of a reading unit, and is a component (e.g., a scanner) that reads an image formed by the image forming device 14. The image reading unit 52 optically reads an image of the recording medium P placed on the stage 51 and converts it into a digital signal to generate image data to be inspected (hereinafter referred to as inspection data). The inspection device 50 inspects the image by comparing the inspection data with the RIP data.

[0066] The communication interface 53 is a connection unit for communicating with other devices (for example, the image processing system 12 and the image forming device 14). Specifically, the communication interface 53 communicates with other devices through the communication line 13 using at least one of a wired and a wireless connection.

[0067] The display unit 55 is a notification unit that notifies the user of presentation information by displaying the presentation information to be presented to the user. The display unit 55 is configured, for example, with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or the like.

[0068] The input unit 54 is a component into which instructions and condition settings by the user are input. In this embodiment, the input unit 54 is configured as a touch panel integrated with the display unit 55. The touch panel is configured as, for example, a resistive touch panel or a capacitive touch panel, and input by the user is performed by touching the touch panel.

[0069] The user's instruction may be an instruction to execute a process that can be executed by the inspection device 50. The process may be, for example, an inspection process for inspecting an image formed by the image forming device 14.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a result display screen 200 (see FIG. 6) that displays result information indicating the inspection results of the inspection device 50 can be displayed on the display unit 55 as the input unit 54. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the inspection results are displayed for each job executed by the image forming device 14. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6, the result information includes information indicating the job ID, job name, inspection accuracy, and inspection results. The job ID is identification information that identifies a job related to the image formation process.

[0071] Furthermore, the result display screen 200 may display the inspection data and RIP data related to each inspection result. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the inspection data and RIP data are displayed by pressing a "Browse" button provided for each job. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, areas where inspection accuracy has decreased may be displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 7, areas where inspection accuracy has decreased are highlighted by coloring them when the "Next" button is pressed. Note that, if the inspection result is poor, the result display screen 200 may display information indicating the reason for the poor image quality.

[0072] The input unit 54 may be configured with input keys (for example, a keyboard and operation buttons) that are operated by the user to perform input operations.

[0073] The control device 60 is a device that controls each part of the inspection device 50. The control device 60 has the functions of a computer, and as shown in Fig. 5, has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 61, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 62, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 63, and a storage 64. The CPU 61, the ROM 62, the RAM 63, and the storage 64 are each connected to one another by a bus 69.

[0074] The CPU 61 is a central processing unit that executes various programs including an information processing program and controls various components. The ROM 62 stores various programs including the information processing program and various data. The RAM 63 serves as a working area and temporarily stores programs or data.

[0075] The storage 64 is configured with one or more storage media such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory, and stores various programs including an operating system and various data. Note that the information processing program may also be stored in the storage 64.

[0076] In the control device 60, the CPU 61 reads various programs including an information processing program from the ROM 62 or the storage 64, and executes the programs using the RAM 63 as a work area. The CPU 61 executes the information processing program to realize various functions.

[0077] In the control device 60, the CPU 61 executes an information processing program to function as an acquisition unit 71 and an inspection unit 72 as shown in FIG.

[0078] The acquiring unit 71 acquires the inspection data and RIP data generated by the image reading unit 52. The RIP data is acquired from the image forming device 14 or the image processing system 12. The acquiring unit 71 also acquires correction information transmitted from the image forming device 14.

[0079] The inspection unit 72 is a functional unit that inspects the image read by the image reading unit 52 based on the RIP data. Specifically, the inspection unit 72 inspects the image by comparing the inspection data with the RIP data. For example, when there is a difference as a result of comparing the inspection data with the RIP data, the inspection unit 72 determines that the image is defective (NG).

[0080] Furthermore, when non-discharge correction is performed in the image forming device 14, the inspection unit 72 performs the inspection after the acquisition unit 71 acquires the correction information. Furthermore, when non-discharge correction is performed in the image forming device 14, the inspection unit 72 performs the inspection with reduced inspection accuracy. Specifically, the inspection unit 72 performs the inspection process described below.

[0081] <Transmission process according to this embodiment> Next, an example of the transmission process according to this embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the transmission process executed in the image forming apparatus 14.

[0082] This process is performed by the CPU 21 reading and executing an information processing program from the ROM 22 or the storage 24. As an example, this process is started when the CPU 21 receives an execution instruction to cause the image forming device 14 to execute image formation processing. Note that the CPU 21 may be configured to execute the transmission process when, for example, it receives information from the inspection device 50 instructing the inspection device 50 to start execution of an inspection or a transmission instruction to transmit correction information to the inspection device 50.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 9, when starting this process, the CPU 21 first determines whether or not the image forming apparatus 14 executes non-ejection correction (step S101).

[0084] If the CPU 21 determines that the image forming device 14 will perform non-discharge correction (step S101: YES), it proceeds to step S102, and if the image forming device 14 will not perform non-discharge correction, it terminates this processing without sending the correction information to the inspection device 50.

[0085] In step S102, the CPU 21 determines whether or not a non-ejection correction test is set. If the CPU 21 determines in step S102 that a non-ejection test is set (step S102: YES), the CPU 21 proceeds to step S103, and if the CPU 21 determines that a non-ejection test is not set (i.e., a normal test is set) (step S102: NO), the CPU 21 ends this processing without transmitting correction information to the inspection device 50. Note that, when a normal test is set, the CPU 21 may be configured to transmit information indicating that the normal test is set to the inspection device 50.

[0086] In step S103, the CPU 21 executes a transmission process to transmit the correction information to the inspection device 50. The CPU 21 acquires various types of correction information from the storage 24 and transmits it to the inspection device 50. As described above, the correction information includes execution information indicating the execution of non-ejection correction in the image forming device 14, position information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle 32B, accuracy information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user, and the like.

[0087] <Inspection process according to this embodiment> Next, an example of the inspection process according to this embodiment will be described. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the inspection process executed in the inspection device 50.

[0088] This process is performed by the CPU 61 reading and executing an information processing program from the ROM 62 or the storage 64. As an example, this process is started when the CPU 61 receives an execution instruction to cause the inspection device 50 to execute the inspection process. Note that the CPU 61 may be configured to execute the inspection process when, for example, it receives an execution instruction to execute the image formation process in the image forming device 14.

[0089] 10, when starting this process, the CPU 61 first determines whether or not correction information has been received from the image forming apparatus 14 (step S201). If the CPU 61 determines that correction information has been received (acquired) from the image forming apparatus 14 (step S201: YES), the CPU 61 proceeds to step S202, and if the CPU 61 determines that correction information has not been received from the image forming apparatus 14 (step S201: NO), the CPU 61 executes a normal inspection (step S210) and ends this process.

[0090] In step S202, the CPU 61 determines whether or not the position related to the non-ejection correction (i.e., the position of the non-ejection nozzle 32B) is included in the image formed by the image forming device 14. If the CPU 61 determines in step S202 that the position related to the non-ejection correction is included in the image formed by the image forming device 14 (step S202: YES), the CPU 61 proceeds to step S203, and if the CPU 61 determines that the position related to the non-ejection correction is not included in the image formed by the image forming device 14 (step S202: NO), the CPU 61 executes a normal inspection (step S210) and ends this processing.

[0091] In step S203, the CPU 61 determines whether the image at the position related to non-ejection correction is a character. If the CPU 61 determines in step S203 that the image at the position related to non-ejection correction is a character (step S203: YES), the CPU 61 proceeds to step S204, and if the CPU 61 determines that the image at the position related to non-ejection correction is not a character (i.e., an image portion) (step S203: NO), the CPU 61 proceeds to step S220.

[0092] In step S204, the CPU 61 executes a non-ejection correction inspection based on the tolerance set by the user, and then ends this process. In step S220, the CPU 61 reduces the inspection accuracy, executes a non-ejection correction inspection, and then ends this process. Since the image portion does not require high-precision inspection compared to characters, in this embodiment, image inspection is executed, for example, at a predetermined inspection accuracy that is lower than that of normal inspection.

[0093] <Actions according to this embodiment> In this embodiment, when non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming apparatus 14, the CPU 21 executes a process of transmitting correction information to the inspection apparatus 50 (step S103). This allows the inspection apparatus 50 to perform image inspection taking the correction information into consideration.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the correction information includes execution information indicating the execution of non-ejection correction in the image forming device 14, and position information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle 32B. Therefore, it is possible to perform image inspection taking into account the execution information and the position information.

[0095] In this embodiment, the correction information includes accuracy information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user, which allows the inspection device 50 to perform image inspection taking into account the accuracy information.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a non-discharge correction inspection is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device 50 (step S102: YES), the CPU 21 transmits correction information to the inspection device 50 (step S103). Therefore, when a non-discharge correction inspection is set, the inspection device 50 can perform image inspection taking the correction information into consideration.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when normal inspection is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device 50 (step S102: NO), the CPU 21 does not transmit correction information to the inspection device 50. Therefore, unnecessary transmission of correction information to the inspection device 50 is suppressed compared to when the CPU 21 always transmits correction information to the inspection device 50.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the CPU 21 notifies the user of the set inspection mode through the display unit 35. This allows the user to recognize the set inspection mode.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the inspection device 50, the CPU 61 performs image inspection after acquiring correction information when performing non-ejection correction in the image forming device 14. This allows the inspection device 50 to perform image inspection taking into account the correction information.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when non-discharge correction is performed in the image forming device 14, the CPU 61 in the inspection device 50 performs image inspection with reduced inspection accuracy. Therefore, regardless of whether non-discharge correction is performed in the image forming device 14, inspection defects are suppressed compared to when inspection is performed with a constant inspection accuracy.

[0101] <Modification> In the present embodiment, the image forming system 10 is an example of an information processing system, but for example, the image forming apparatus 14 may also be understood as an example of an information processing system.

[0102] Furthermore, the device including the processor that executes the transmission process may be configured as an external device that exists outside the image forming device 14. In this case, the external device or a system including the external device can be understood as an example of an information processing system.

[0103] Furthermore, a device including a processor that executes inspection processing may be configured as an external device that exists outside the inspection device 50. In this case, the external device or a system including the external device can be considered as an information processing system.

[0104] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., the aforementioned CPU, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0105] Furthermore, the operations of the processors in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processors is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0106] Furthermore, the information processing system in this embodiment is not limited to one configured by multiple devices, but may be one configured by a single device. That is, the "system" in this embodiment may be one configured by multiple devices or one configured by a single device.

[0107] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications, changes, and improvements are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the above-described modified examples may be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0108] <Additional Notes> (((1))) a processor; The processor: In an image forming apparatus that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data, when non-ejection correction is performed to increase the ejection amount of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle, The image forming apparatus transmits correction information related to the non-ejection correction to an inspection apparatus that reads the image formed by the image forming apparatus and inspects the image. Information processing system.

[0109] (((2))) The correction information includes information indicating the execution of the non-ejection correction and information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle. The information processing system according to (((1))).

[0110] (((3))) The correction information includes information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user. The information processing system according to (((2))).

[0111] (((4))) The processor: When an inspection mode based on the non-discharge correction is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device, correction information regarding the non-discharge correction is transmitted to the inspection device. The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((3))).

[0112] (((5))) The processor: When normal inspection is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device, the correction information is not transmitted to the inspection device. The information processing system according to (((4))).

[0113] (((6))) The processor: The set inspection mode is notified to the user through a notification unit. The information processing system according to (((5))).

[0114] (((7))) For computers, In an image forming apparatus that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data, when non-ejection correction is performed to increase the ejection amount of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle, The image forming apparatus transmits correction information related to the non-ejection correction to an inspection apparatus that reads the image formed by the image forming apparatus and inspects the image. An information processing program for executing processing.

[0115] (((8))) an image forming apparatus that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data, and a reading unit that reads the formed image; An inspection unit that inspects the image read by the reading unit based on the image data, an inspection unit that, when performing non-ejection correction to increase the ejection amount of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle in the image forming apparatus, performs inspection after acquiring information about the non-ejection correction; An inspection device comprising:

[0116] (((9))) The inspection unit When the non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming apparatus, the inspection accuracy is reduced. The inspection device according to (((8))).

[0117] According to the configuration (((1))), the inspection device can perform inspection taking into account information related to non-ejection correction.

[0118] According to the configuration (((2))), the inspection device can perform inspection taking into consideration information indicating the execution of non-ejection correction and information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle.

[0119] According to the configuration (((3))), the inspection device can perform inspection taking into consideration information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user.

[0120] According to the configuration (((4))), when an inspection mode based on non-ejection correction is set, the inspection device can perform inspection taking into account information related to non-ejection correction.

[0121] According to the configuration (((5))), it is possible to reduce unnecessary transmission of correction information to the inspection device, compared to when the processor always transmits correction information to the inspection device.

[0122] According to the configuration (((6))), the user can recognize the set inspection mode.

[0123] According to the configuration (((7))), the inspection device can perform inspection taking into account information related to non-ejection correction.

[0124] According to the configuration (((8))), the inspection device can perform inspection taking into account information related to non-ejection correction.

[0125] According to the configuration (((9))), regardless of whether ejection failure correction is performed in the image forming apparatus, inspection defects are reduced compared to when inspection is performed with a constant inspection accuracy. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 10 Image forming system (an example of an information processing system) 14 Image forming device 21 CPU (an example of a processor) 32A nozzle 32B Non-ejecting nozzle 32C Adjacent Nozzle 35 Display unit (example of notification unit) 50 Inspection equipment 72 Inspection Department

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: In an image forming apparatus that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data, when non-ejection correction is performed to increase the ejection amount of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle, The image forming apparatus transmits correction information related to the non-ejection correction to an inspection apparatus that reads the image formed by the image forming apparatus and inspects the image. Information processing system.

2. The correction information includes information indicating the execution of the non-ejection correction and information indicating the position of the non-ejection nozzle. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The correction information includes information indicating the inspection accuracy set by the user. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

4. The processor: When an inspection mode based on the non-discharge correction is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device, correction information regarding the non-discharge correction is transmitted to the inspection device. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

5. The processor: When normal inspection is set as the inspection mode of the inspection device, the correction information is not transmitted to the inspection device. The information processing system according to claim 4 .

6. The processor: The set inspection mode is notified to the user through a notification unit. The information processing system according to claim 5 .

7. For computers, In an image forming apparatus that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data, when non-ejection correction is performed to increase the ejection amount of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle, The image forming apparatus transmits correction information related to the non-ejection correction to an inspection apparatus that reads the image formed by the image forming apparatus and inspects the image. An information processing program for executing processing.

8. an image forming apparatus that forms an image by ejecting droplets from a plurality of nozzles based on image data, and a reading unit that reads the formed image; An inspection unit that inspects the image read by the reading unit based on the image data, an inspection unit that, when performing non-ejection correction to increase the ejection amount of a nozzle adjacent to a non-ejection nozzle in the image forming apparatus, performs inspection after acquiring information about the non-ejection correction; An inspection device comprising:

9. The inspection unit When the non-ejection correction is performed in the image forming apparatus, the inspection accuracy is reduced. The inspection device according to claim 8.

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