Image inspection system, image inspection method, and image inspection program

Abstract

To provide an image inspection device capable of improving convenience in setting an inspection-related area.SOLUTION: An image inspection device comprises: an acquisition part which acquires a first image which is a read image of an inspection object medium on which printing has been applied, and a second image which is a reference image serving as a reference for inspection; and an inspection part which performs an image inspection on a printing region of the inspection object medium according to the first image and the second image, and excludes an end region of the inspection object medium from the image inspection.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image inspection device. [Background technology]

[0002] In image forming devices (copiers, printers, facsimiles, and all-in-one devices) that form toner images on paper, unexpected factors can cause the original image to not be formed on the paper. For this reason, an image inspection system is known that places an image reading device downstream of the image forming device, compares the image read by the image reading device with a normal image that serves as a reference (hereinafter referred to as the "reference image"), and judges whether the image printed on the paper is good or bad.

[0003] A problem with such image inspection systems is that they may not be able to correctly determine whether an image is good or bad. For example, the technology described in Patent Document 1 below has the problem that it cannot accurately inspect images that include fine details such as halftone dots, and it has been proposed to exclude such fine images from the inspection target. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-219296 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In recent image inspection systems, in order to improve user convenience, functions have been proposed to exclude or identify images or areas to be inspected, such as the ability to set images or areas on paper to be excluded from inspection (so-called inspection exclusion areas) for each page.

[0006] However, if the user had to set the desired area on the paper or image to be excluded or identified from the inspection target (hereinafter simply referred to as "inspection-related area") for each page or for each image on a page, this would be a time-consuming process and would be inconvenient.

[0007] For example, even if a reference image is created and an inspection-related region is set for this reference image, there may arise a case where the user wishes to start over from creating the reference image again.

[0008] In addition, there may be cases where you want to reuse information about an inspection-related area that you previously set. For example, you may have a reference image that is different from a previously created reference image only in color, and you want to set an inspection-related area in the same area as the previously set area, so you may want to reuse the settings you made previously.

[0009] However, because the setting of the inspection-related area is dependent on the shape and layout of the image, in conventional systems it was initialized (reset) upon completion of an image inspection job (inspection job).

[0010] For this reason, in conventional systems, when setting up an inspection job, it was necessary to set the inspection-related area for each created reference image. Therefore, in cases like the above, the user had to operate the mouse or keyboard to set the inspection-related area again from the beginning, which was inconvenient.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide an image inspection device that can improve convenience when setting an inspection-related area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The image inspection device according to the present invention comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires a first image, which is a scanned image of the inspection target medium on which printing has been performed, and a second image, which is a reference image that serves as a reference for the inspection; an inspection unit that performs an image inspection of a print area of ​​the inspection target medium based on the first image and the second image, and excludes an edge area of ​​the inspection target medium from the target of the image inspection; Equipped with.

[0013] The image inspection setting method according to the present invention comprises: performing an image inspection job on image data obtained by reading an image formed on paper based on an inspection-related area in which at least one of an inspection target area that is a target of image inspection and an inspection exclusion area that is not a target of the image inspection is set; storing the inspection-related area set in the image inspection job in a data storage unit; setting the inspection-related area read from the data storage unit as an inspection-related area of ​​a new image inspection job; The inspection-related areas of the new imaging inspection job can be edited.

[0014] The image inspection setting program according to the present invention comprises: On the computer, A process of performing an image inspection job on image data obtained by reading an image formed on paper based on an inspection-related area in which at least one of an inspection target area that is a target of image inspection and an inspection exclusion area that is not a target of the image inspection is set; storing the inspection-related area set in the image inspection job in a data storage unit; and setting the inspection-related area read from the data storage unit as the inspection-related area of ​​the new image inspection job; and An image inspection setting program for enabling the inspection-related area of ​​the new image inspection job to be edited. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve convenience when setting an examination-related region. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the overall configuration of an image inspection system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main parts of a control system in the image inspection system of the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart outlining the processing flow of an inspection job. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing for setting an inspection-related region (inspection region or inspection-exclusion region) in a reference image. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an inspection area setting screen for setting an inspection-related area in an inspection job. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a characteristic process flow in the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating file names related to reference jobs and image inspection results. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a list of file names of past reference jobs. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a call setting screen in a state in which the setting contents of a reference job are called. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a comparison between the reference image of each page of the call profile when the Apply All Page Settings button is selected and the reference image of each page of the current inspection job. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a warning message displayed when the total number of pages in the call profile does not match the total number of pages in the current inspection job. [Figure 12] 12A and 12B are diagrams showing an example in which the total number of pages in the call profile and the total number of pages in the current inspection job do not match. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing, in comparison, an example of applying the settings of the inspection-related areas on the first and fourth pages of the call profile to the corresponding pages of the current inspection job. [Figure 14]14A and 14B are diagrams showing, in comparison, an example in which the setting of the inspection-related area on the first page of the call profile is applied to odd-numbered pages in the current inspection job. [Figure 15] 15A and 15B are diagrams showing, in comparison, an example in which the setting of the inspection-related area on the first page of the call profile is applied to an even-numbered page in the current inspection job. [Figure 16] 16A and 16B are diagrams showing a comparison of an example in which the settings of the inspection-related area on the first page of the call profile are applied to a specified page in the current inspection job. [Figure 17] 17A and 17B are diagrams showing, in comparison, an example of applying the settings of the inspection-related area on the second page of the call profile to a specified page in the current inspection job. [Figure 18] 18A and 18B are diagrams showing, in comparison, an example in which the settings of the inspection-related area on the third page of the call profile are applied to all pages in the current inspection job. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of applying the setting of the inspection-related area on the first page of the call profile to a position shifted from the original position on the first page of the current inspection job. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating processing when the paper size of the first page of the call profile differs from the paper size of the first page of the current inspection job. [Figure 21] This figure explains the case where overlapping of inspection exclusion areas is applied, and compares each page of the call profile (top row), each page before overlapping application in the current inspection job (middle row), and each page after overlapping application (bottom row). [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a warning message that is displayed when the number of designated areas per page exceeds the upper limit when overlapping the inspection exclusion areas is performed. [Figure 23]This figure explains the simultaneous application of multiple call profiles, comparing each page of call profile A (top row), each page of call profile B (middle row), and each page of the state when call profiles A and B are simultaneously applied to the reference image in this inspection job (bottom row). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] This embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an image inspection system 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 shows the main parts of a control system for explaining the flow of signals between the devices that make up the image inspection system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0018] The image inspection system 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is a system that forms (outputs) an image on paper S using an image forming device 20, reads the image on the paper S, and compares the read image with a reference image to inspect the quality of the image printed on the paper S (whether or not image defects have occurred).

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1, the image inspection system 1 includes an image forming device 20 that forms an image on a sheet S based on input image data, a paper feeding device 10 that feeds the sheet S to the image forming device 20, an image reading device 30 that reads the image on the sheet S discharged from the image forming device 20, and a post-processing device 40 that has multiple discharge trays (42, 43).

[0020] In the image inspection system 1, the sheet feeding device 10, the image forming device 20, the image reading device 30, and the post-processing device 40 are physically connected in this order (the device main bodies are linked together) from the upstream side in the transport direction of the sheet S, so that a transport path P for the sheet S is formed connecting these multiple devices. This transport path P is branched by the sorting section 41 of the post-processing device 40 into a path P1 connected to a lower sheet discharge tray 42 and a path P2 connected to an upper sheet discharge tray 43.

[0021] For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 1 shows the transport path P within the image forming apparatus 20 as a single line, but an actual image forming apparatus 20 is provided with a double-sided transport path for double-sided printing. Also, for the sake of simplicity, Fig. 1 shows two branches, P1 and P2, within the post-processing apparatus 40, but more branch paths can be provided depending on the number of paper output trays, etc.

[0022] The paper feeder 10 can store various sizes and types of paper S. The paper feeder 10 includes a paper feed roller for feeding the stored (stacked) paper S one sheet at a time, a motor for driving the paper feed roller, and the like.

[0023] The image forming apparatus 20 has an intermediate transfer type image forming unit 21 that utilizes electrophotographic process technology. In this example, the image forming unit 21 primarily transfers toner images of each color (Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, and K) formed on a photosensitive drum (not shown) onto an intermediate transfer belt (not shown), superimposes the four color toner images on the intermediate transfer belt, and then secondarily transfers the toner images onto the paper S, thereby forming a toner image. Furthermore, downstream of the image forming unit 21 in the transport direction of the paper S, a fixing unit 22 is disposed. The fixing unit 22 fixes the toner image onto the paper S by applying heat and pressure to the paper S onto which the toner image has been secondarily transferred. The image forming unit 21 and the fixing unit 22 are well-known in construction, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the image formation method in the image forming apparatus 20 is not limited to the above method, and various other methods are also applicable.

[0024] The image forming apparatus 20 is provided with an operation display unit 25 on its main body. The operation display unit 25 is configured, for example, by a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a touch panel, and functions as a display unit 26 and an operation unit 27. The display unit 26 displays various operation screens, image status, and the operating status of each function in accordance with a display control signal input from a control unit 200 (described later). The operation unit 27 has various operation keys (so-called hardware switches) such as a numeric keypad and a start key, accepts various input operations by the user, and outputs operation signals to the control unit 200. The display unit 26 also displays various icons (so-called software switches) that can be selected with a cursor (pointer) or the like on various screens (described later), accepts various input operations by the user, and outputs operation signals to the control unit 200.

[0025] 2, the image forming apparatus 20 includes a control unit 200 that controls the entire image forming apparatus 20. The control unit 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, and the like, and controls the operations of the image forming unit 21, the fixing unit 22, the operation and display unit 25, and other units included in the image forming apparatus 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the control unit 200 reads out a program corresponding to the processing content from the ROM 202, loads it into the RAM 203, and works in conjunction with the loaded program to centrally control the operations of the image forming unit 21, the fixing unit 22, the operation and display unit 25, and other blocks in the image forming apparatus 20.

[0026] In this embodiment, the operation display unit 25 of the image forming device 20 functions as a "presentation unit" that presents predetermined information to the user in a selectable manner prior to image inspection, based on instructions from the image inspection device 50 described below.

[0027] Other blocks included in image forming apparatus 20 include an image processing unit that performs various corrections such as gradation correction on input image data, a paper transport unit that drives multiple transport rollers that transport paper S, and a communication unit that communicates with external devices such as a server via a communication network. Image forming apparatus 20 may also be configured as a copier that copies an original image onto paper S, that is, may be configured to include an automatic document feeder such as an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) and an original image scanning device (scanner). These blocks described above are well-known and therefore will not be illustrated or described here.

[0028] 1 and 2, the image reading device 30 has an output image reading unit 31 that optically reads an image (toner image) on a sheet S discharged from the image forming device 20. Specifically, the output image reading unit 31 optically scans the sheet S, forms an image of reflected light from the sheet S on the light receiving surface of a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor (not shown), reads images on both sides of the sheet S, and generates read image data based on the reading results. The read image data generated by the output image reading unit 31 is input to an image inspection device 50 (described later).

[0029] 1 and 2, post-processing device 40 includes a transport roller that transports paper S whose image has been read by image reading device 30, multiple paper output trays 42 and 43 that discharge paper S, and a sorting unit 41 that switches the discharge destination (transport route) of paper S. For simplicity, FIG. 2 illustrates a configuration with two paper output trays 42 and 43, but any number of paper output trays may be used, and more paper output trays may be provided. Sorting unit 41 includes a switching gate that switches the discharge destination (transport route) of paper S between path P1 and path P2, a drive source such as a solenoid that drives the switching gate, an interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from image forming device 20 and image inspection device 50, and the like.

[0030] Additionally, post-processing device 40 can be equipped with various additional functions depending on the application, such as a cutter that cuts sheets S, a stapler that staples sheets S, and a folding mechanism that folds sheets S. These additional functions are well-known configurations, and therefore will not be illustrated or described here.

[0031] 2, the image inspection system 1 includes an image inspection device 50 that inspects the quality of an output image formed (output) on the sheet S (whether or not there is an image defect) based on the read image data generated by the image reading device 30. The image inspection device 50 includes a hardware processor such as a CPU, a ROM, a data storage unit 51 (described later), and the CPU reads and executes a program stored in the ROM to execute a job (hereinafter referred to as an "inspection job") that inspects the quality of the output image (whether or not there is an image defect).

[0032] In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 has the function of generating and registering a reference image (sometimes called a correct image) to be compared when performing image inspection, based on the scanned image generated by the image reading device 30.

[0033] Furthermore, the image inspection device 50 has a function of setting an inspection-related region (an inspection target region that is the target of image inspection, or an inspection-exclusion region that is not the target of image inspection) for the registered reference image.

[0034] Furthermore, the image inspection device 50 functions as an "image inspection unit" that compares the read image generated by the image reading device 30 with a reference image to inspect for image defects. Details of each of these functions of the image inspection device 50 will be described later.

[0035] The image inspection device 50 can be physically incorporated into the housing of the image reading device 30, the post-processing device 40, or the image forming device 20, for example, or can be configured as a device that is physically independent from these devices. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the image inspection device 50 is the latter, i.e., a physically independent device, and is configured to be electrically connected to a control unit 200 (described later) of the image forming device 20, etc.

[0036] In addition, as shown in Figure 2, the image inspection system 1 is equipped with a PC 60 that outputs data (hereinafter referred to as reference data) of input image data and printing conditions (various user settings such as the number of pages of the printed matter, the printing method (e.g., double-sided printing / single-sided printing), and the number of copies to be printed).

[0037] 2, the PC 60 supplies the reference data to both the image forming apparatus 20 (control unit 200) and the image inspection apparatus 50. As another example, a relay device may be provided that branches the reference data sent from the PC 60 into two and sends them to the control unit 200 and the image inspection apparatus 50.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, the image inspection system 1 includes data storage units 51 and 52 for storing various data such as the reference data described above.

[0039] Of these, the data storage unit 51 is a part of the image inspection device 50 and is used to temporarily store reference data. The data storage unit 51 also stores various data related to image defects analyzed by the image inspection device 50.

[0040] Furthermore, the data storage unit 51 saves and accumulates various settings related to image inspection as inspection profile data. Here, the inspection profile includes information indicating printing conditions such as the content of the print job in which the image to be inspected is printed, such as the size of the paper S used for printing, the number of sheets and copies to be printed, whether double-sided printing is performed, etc. Other contents of the inspection profile will be described later.

[0041] On the other hand, the data storage unit 52 is provided in the main body (housing) of the image forming apparatus 20, and is connected to the control unit 200 and the CPU of the image inspection device 50 via an interface (not shown). These data storage units 51 and 52 can use various data storage media such as HDDs and semiconductor memories.

[0042] In one specific example, first, the image forming device 20 stores print job setting information including information indicating the above-mentioned printing conditions in the data storage unit 52. Thereafter, when creating an inspection profile, the quality inspection device 50 reads the information indicating the printing conditions from the data storage unit 52 and stores it in the data storage unit 51 as part of the inspection profile.

[0043] Next, an overview of the processing of an inspection job executed by the image inspection device 50 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 3. Here, it is assumed that a plurality of copies (e.g., 100 copies) of a printed matter consisting of multiple pages (e.g., four sheets of paper) is printed, and the quality of the images on the printed matter is inspected, and new reference image data for the printed matter (four sheets of paper) is created.

[0044] In step S10, the image inspection device 50 (CPU of the image inspection device 50 shown in FIG. 2, the same applies hereinafter) refers to the page number of the reference data described above, and registers (newly creates) the scanned image data for a portion (here, four sheets of paper) printed by the image forming device 20 and scanned by the image scanning device 30 as data for a reference image. The process of registering such a reference image is called a "reference job."

[0045] More specifically, in step S10, the image inspection device 50 temporarily stores a portion of the images (read image data) (corresponding to four sheets of paper) read and generated by the image reading device 30 in RAM or the like as candidates for the reference image.

[0046] At this time, the user visually checks the images of the actual printouts (four sheets), and if there are no problems, the temporarily saved data is stored (registered) as official reference image data in the data storage unit 51 through an operation input on a reference image registration screen (not shown) displayed on the display unit 26. In this way, the reference job is completed.

[0047] In this embodiment, in such a reference job, the above-mentioned inspection-related area (inspection target area or inspection exclusion area) can be set for each registered reference image, and details of such setting procedures will be described later.

[0048] Thus, after the data of the formal reference image is registered, the image forming apparatus 20 starts the print job from the second copy of the printed matter.

[0049] For simplicity, the printing used to create new reference image data will be referred to as "proof printing," and the printing that is the subject of the inspection job will be referred to as "final printing." If there are any problems with the images in the actual printouts (four pages), the above-mentioned reference job processing will be repeated until the user determines that there are no problems with the reference images.

[0050] In step S20, the image inspection device 50 acquires read image data from the second copy (the fifth copy in this example) generated by the output image reading unit 31 of the image reading device 30 when actual printing is started by the image forming device 20. In this example, the image inspection device 50 receives the generated read image data directly from the image reading device 30 (see FIG. 2).

[0051] In step S30, the image inspection device 50 checks the identity of the reference image and the read image by comparing the read image data acquired in step S20 with the data of the reference image of the corresponding page registered in step S10.

[0052] Next, the image inspection device 50 determines whether or not there is an image defect in the read image data based on the inspection result of step S30 (step S40). The determination process differs depending on the items related to the degree of match between the reference image and the read image (type of image defect) and the pass / fail standard value (threshold value), etc. Note that the determination process of step S40 is similar to a known method, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0053] If the image inspection device 50 determines that there are no image defects in the read image data (step S40, NO), it determines that the image quality of the print is acceptable. In this case, the image inspection device 50 notifies the post-processing device 40 to discharge the paper S corresponding to the read image data into a preset first tray (for example, the paper discharge tray 42 in FIG. 1).

[0054] Then, the image inspection device 50 repeats the processes of steps S20 to S40 until the print job related to the inspection is completed, and when the print job is completed, the image inspection device 50 appropriately stores the inspection results in the data storage unit 51 (step S60) and ends the inspection job processing. In this case, the image inspection device 50 notifies the control unit 200 of the image forming device 20 that "the image quality of all printed pages passed," for example.

[0055] On the other hand, if the image inspection device 50 determines that the read image data has an image defect (step S40, YES), the process proceeds to step S50.

[0056] In step S50, the image inspection device 50 transmits a message such as "An image defect occurred on the 50th printed page" to the control unit 200 of the image forming device 20. At this time, the image inspection device 50 also transmits the type of the image defect, the position of the image defect on the sheet S, and the like to the control unit 200 of the image forming device 20. The image inspection device 50 also notifies the post-processing device 40 to discharge the sheet S corresponding to the scanned image data containing the image defect to a preset second tray (for example, the paper output tray 43 in FIG. 1).

[0057] When the post-processing device 40 receives notification from the image inspection device 50 about the presence or absence of image defects, it drives the switching gate of the sorting section 41 (see Figures 1 and 2) so that the target paper S is discharged to the appropriate paper output tray (42 or 43).

[0058] The image inspection device 50 repeats the above-described steps S20 to S50 until the inspection job is completed, and when the inspection job is completed (i.e., completed up to the last printed page), it saves the inspection results in the data storage unit 51 (step S60) and ends the inspection job.

[0059] Incidentally, in recent image inspection systems, in order to improve user convenience, functions have been proposed or implemented that allow the above-mentioned inspection-related areas (inspection exclusion areas or inspection target areas) to be set for each page, thereby identifying or excluding images or areas on the paper to be inspected.

[0060] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, a function for designating (setting) an inspection target area or an inspection exclusion area in an image inspection system will be described.

[0061] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing for setting an inspection-related region, that is, an inspection target region that is the subject of image inspection (hereinafter simply referred to as an "inspection region") and an inspection-exclusion region that is the subject of image inspection exclusion.

[0062] The processing of steps S200 to S220 in FIG. 4 can be performed after the registration of the reference image data in the flowchart of FIG. 3 (step S10) and before the actual printing is performed (step S20).

[0063] In step S200 of FIG. 4 after the registration of the reference image data (see step S10 of FIG. 3) is completed, the image inspection device 50 sends an instruction to the image forming device 20 to display on the display unit 26 a screen for specifying and setting an inspection area or an inspection exclusion area (hereinafter simply referred to as the "inspection area setting screen"), for example, as shown in FIG.

[0064] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an examination area setting screen displayed on the display unit 26, and details of this screen will be described later.

[0065] Returning to the explanation of Figure 4, the image inspection device 50 temporarily stores the setting contents of the inspection-related area (inspection area or inspection-exclusion area) selected and input by the user through the inspection area setting screen in the data storage unit 51, etc. as "area setting information" (step S210).

[0066] Thereafter, the image inspection device 50 sends an instruction to the image forming device 20 to display on the display unit 26 a message stating, for example, "Press the start key to start the actual printing and inspection job."

[0067] Thus, when the start key (not shown) on the operation unit 27 is pressed, the image forming device 20 starts the actual printing, the image on the paper S for the actual printing is read by the image reading device 30, and the read image data is acquired by the image inspection device 50 (step S220).

[0068] Then, in step S230, the image inspection device 50 that has received the read image data performs image inspection on the inspection area of ​​each page (for example, an area other than the inspection exclusion area) in accordance with the settings of the area setting information saved in step S210.

[0069] In this case, for example, if the edge of the paper S is set as an area excluded from inspection, this edge will be excluded from the image inspection, thereby preventing false detections in the image inspection due to warping or the like on the edge of the paper S.

[0070] In addition, if parts printed on the paper S, such as page numbers and headers, are set as areas excluded from inspection, these parts will be excluded from the image inspection, allowing for focused inspection of the more important image parts on the paper S.

[0071] Next, the examination area setting screen displayed on the display unit 26 in step S200 described above will be described in detail.

[0072] As shown in Fig. 5, one of the reference images of the printed matter to be inspected (four sheets of paper in this example) is displayed on the left side of the inspection area setting screen, and in the example shown, the reference image of the first page (indicated by the symbol RI) is displayed. The display of this reference image RI can be changed to display the reference images of other pages (pages 2 to 4 in this example) by the user selecting the scroll buttons indicated by "<" and ">" at the bottom left of the inspection area setting screen.

[0073] On the other hand, on the right side of the inspection area setting screen, various contents (setting items) such as "area type selection," "target surface selection," "area setting," and "edge exclusion setting" for the reference image RI being displayed are displayed so that they can be specified by user input operations.

[0074] In the example of the reference image RI shown in Fig. 5, a page number ("1" in the illustrated example) is printed in the top center and bottom center of the paper S, and images of objects (picture patterns) of the same shape are printed (arranged) in a frame shape near the edges of the paper S. For simplicity, in this example, the reference image RI used in the inspection job has a simple form, but as shown in the figures described below, various images can be printed on the registered reference image RI.

[0075] 5, the edge of the paper S outside the frame-shaped image is designated as an inspection exclusion area (edge ​​exclusion area EDA) that is excluded from the image inspection (shown by diagonal hatching). Operations for designating or setting such edge exclusion area EDA will be described later.

[0076] In this embodiment, an inspection-related region (inspection region or inspection-exclusion region) can be easily set within the reference image RI through mouse dragging or key input operations.

[0077] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, to the right of the reference image RI on the inspection area setting screen, an area type selection section 310, a target surface selection section 320, an area setting section 330, an edge exclusion setting section 340, a setting completion button 351, and a setting cancellation button 352 are displayed.

[0078] Of these, the area type selection unit 310 is a user interface for selecting (specifying) using a pull-down menu whether the area (inspection-related area) set in the area setting unit 330 described below is to be an "exclusion area from inspection" or an "area to be inspected."

[0079] In the illustrated example, the "exclusion area" is specified for the area type selection section 310, and therefore the mode is set to individually set the range or area to be excluded from the image inspection within the reference image RI on the left. In contrast, if the down arrow in the "area type selection" field is selected by pulling down with the mouse, the state becomes one in which the "inspection target area" is set, and the mode is set to individually set the inspection target area to be the subject of image inspection within the reference image RI on the left.

[0080] In order to avoid complicating the explanation, the following description will be given on the assumption that the "exclusion area from inspection" has been selected in the area type selection unit 310.

[0081] As shown in the figure, below the area type selection section 310, a target surface selection section 320 with the heading "Target surface selection", an area setting section 330 with the heading "Area setting", and an edge exclusion setting section 340 with the heading "Edge exclusion setting" are displayed in that order.

[0082] Of these, the target surface selection unit 320 is a user interface for selecting (designating) whether to set an area for the "front surface," "back surface," or "specified page" of the reference image RI. Here, "front surface" and "back surface" take into consideration double-sided printing and image inspection of both surfaces of the paper S, and the "front surface" corresponds to the odd-numbered pages (i.e., pages 1, 3, 5, etc.) of the pages that make up the reference image RI, while the "back surface" corresponds to the even-numbered pages (pages 2, 4, 6, etc.).

[0083] In this regard, in the example shown in FIG. 5, the "front side" is specified, that is, the mode is set to individually set the exclusion area for image inspection on the "front side (odd pages)" of the printed material.

[0084] On the other hand, if you use the mouse to pull down the downward arrow icon in the "Select target side" column and specify "back side," the image of the paper S on the left side of the figure will change to an image of the back side (for example, page 2), and you will enter a mode in which you can individually set exclusion areas on the "back side" of the printed material to be excluded from image inspection.

[0085] Furthermore, if you use the mouse to pull down the same downward arrow icon and select "Specify Page," a page selection screen (not shown) will be displayed for specifying (selecting) one or more pages for which to set up the image inspection.When you select the target page on this page selection screen, the image of the paper S on the left side of the figure will change to an image of the corresponding page (for example, page 3), and you will enter a mode in which you can individually set the inspection exclusion area on the corresponding page (page 3) of the printed material.

[0086] The area setting unit 330 is a user interface for setting (specifying) one or more frames of an image inspection area or its exclusion area, mainly in an area other than the edge of the paper. Here, a case where an inspection exclusion area is specified on the "front side (odd-numbered pages)" of a printed matter will be explained.

[0087] In the region setting unit 330, a rectangular frame is set within the reference image RI on the left side of the screen, and the range of the rectangular frame is designated as an exclusion region for image inspection in the inspection job. Specifically, when the "Confirm" button 331 in Fig. 5 is clicked (selected) with a mouse or the like, the first exclusion region is confirmed, and new exclusion regions from the second onwards can be set.

[0088] For simplicity, the following will refer to the operation of specifying or selecting various buttons (icons or software switches) by the user, such as clicking the mouse, simply as "selection." Furthermore, the operation of entering numbers, file names, etc. into various input fields, such as keystrokes, will simply be referred to as "input."

[0089] As shown in Figure 5, the area setting unit 330 allows the user to specify the size of the rectangular frame to be set, i.e., the numerical values ​​for "width" and "height", as well as the numerical values ​​for "horizontal position" and "vertical position" of the rectangular frame on the reference image RI, through input operations.

[0090] Furthermore, the size and position of the rectangular frame to be set in the region setting section 330 can be set by dragging the mouse, and the above numerical values ​​are automatically changed in response to the dragging operation.

[0091] In the region setting unit 330, when multiple inspection exclusion regions have been set in the reference image RI through the above-mentioned operations, if the "Delete" button 332 is selected, the latest region setting will be deleted from the display screen (display within the reference image RI on the left).

[0092] Furthermore, in consideration of the fact that it may be difficult to accurately perform the drag operation for setting a rectangular frame in the region setting section 330, a "Specify entire region" button 333 is displayed so that it can be selected. In this example, when the "Specify entire region" button 333 is selected, the entire region of the reference image RI is displayed as a rectangular frame. From this state, the user can easily set an exclusion region of the desired size at the desired position by performing a drag operation or moving the rectangular frame with the cursor.

[0093] The edge exclusion setting unit 340 is a user interface for setting the edge areas of the paper as areas to be excluded from image inspection, regardless of the selection (designation) state of the above-mentioned area type selection unit 310. This is because the edges (edges of the four sides) of the paper S are prone to image loss, transfer failure, and creasing depending on the paper type, which can easily lead to false detections during image inspection, so it may be better to set such edges in advance as areas to be excluded from image inspection.

[0094] In this example, the end exclusion setting unit 340 specifies the exclusion area of ​​the end of the paper by inputting numerical values ​​into the input fields for "leading edge setting" at the leading edge of the paper S in the transport direction (upper side in Figure 5), "rear edge setting" at the trailing edge (lower side in Figure 5), and "left side setting" and "right side setting" in the width direction of the paper S (left and right sides in Figure 5).

[0095] In the example shown, the values ​​entered are "5" mm for the leading edge setting and the trailing edge setting, and "4" mm for the left side setting and the right side setting, and a frame-shaped edge inspection exclusion area EDA (shown by diagonal hatching, the same below) corresponding to these values ​​is displayed in the reference image RI on the screen.

[0096] Thus, after the various selections and inputs described above have been made, if the "Settings Complete" button 351 at the bottom right of the screen is selected, all of the contents selected and input on the examination area setting screen of Fig. 5 are confirmed, and the confirmed contents are temporarily stored (see step S210 in Fig. 4). On the other hand, if the "Settings Cancel" button 352 is selected, a predetermined warning is displayed, and then all of the setting contents in Fig. 5 are canceled, and the display returns to the default.

[0097] In addition, the display and storage of the setting contents through the inspection area setting screen in Figure 5 can be performed through cooperative operation between the control unit 200 and the image inspection device 50, and the same applies to the display and storage of the setting contents through other display screens described below.

[0098] Thus, in this image inspection system 1, the setting of the inspection-related region (inspection region or inspection-exclusion region) in the region setting section 330 can be done not only by inputting numerical values ​​but also by intuitive operation using a mouse, and can also be done by selecting the entire region specification button 333. Therefore, it is possible to achieve operability with higher usability for setting the inspection-exclusion region.

[0099] In this way, recent image inspection systems allow for detailed specification or setting of inspection-related areas (inspection areas or areas excluded from inspection) while taking usability into consideration, and are able to perform image inspections according to these settings.

[0100] On the other hand, the reference image RI used in image inspection is often created for each of the multiple pages that make up the printed material, and a different image is printed on each page. For this reason, in current image inspection systems, the user must specify or set the inspection-related area (inspection area or inspection-exclusion area) within the sheet S (in the reference image RI in this example) for each page (the operation performed by the user in step S210 in Figure 4).

[0101] However, if the user has to set the desired inspection-related area (inspection area or inspection-exclusion area) for each page or for each image on a page, this increases the time required for the work and reduces convenience.

[0102] For example, even if you have created the above-mentioned reference image RI and set the inspection-related area for this reference image RI (in the above example, by entering numerical values ​​for the edge exclusion area EDA), there may be cases where you want to start over from creating the reference image RI again.

[0103] Furthermore, when performing an image inspection, there may be various cases where it is desired to reuse information about an inspection-related region that was previously set. For example, since the previously created reference image RI and the current reference image RI are simply different in color but have the same image shape and layout, it may be desired to reuse the previous settings in order to set the inspection-related region in the same part as the previously set part.

[0104] However, in conventional image inspection systems, the settings of the inspection-related areas are initialized (deleted from memory) upon completion of the image inspection job (inspection job) because they depend on the shape and arrangement of the images in the reference image RI.

[0105] For this reason, in conventional systems, when setting up an inspection job, it was necessary to set the inspection-related area for each created reference image. Therefore, in cases like the above, the user had to operate the mouse or keyboard to set the inspection-related area again from the beginning, which was inconvenient.

[0106] In view of the above-described circumstances, in this embodiment, area setting information for inspection-related areas (areas to be inspected or areas excluded from inspection) in an inspection job, i.e., image inspection, is saved (accumulated) in memory, and the setting contents can be used (selected, edited, etc.) when setting up a later image inspection, and image inspection is performed based on the selected or edited setting contents.

[0107] In one specific example of this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 does not delete the area setting information in which the inspection-related area (inspection target area or inspection exclusion area) is set, even after the image inspection job (inspection job) is completed, but saves and accumulates it as a file in the data storage unit 51. The image inspection device 50 creates such area setting information for each image inspection job (inspection job), and saves it in the data storage unit 51 as part of the inspection profile for each inspection job.

[0108] In other words, the image inspection system 1 of this embodiment is provided with a "settings storage unit" that stores area setting information for each inspection job. In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 and the data storage unit 51 correspond to the "settings storage unit" of the present invention.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 creates an inspection profile including the information indicating the printing conditions and the area setting information described above, as well as a thumbnail image of the reference image RI to which the set inspection-related area (inspection target area or inspection excluded area) has been added (superimposed), and gives the created inspection profile a predetermined file name and stores it in the data storage unit 51. How such file names are assigned will be described later.

[0110] Furthermore, the image inspection system 1 of this embodiment is provided with a "presentation unit" that presents the saved area setting information (file name and therefore setting content) to the user in a selectable manner prior to image inspection (execution of a new inspection job). In one specific example, the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 correspond to the "presentation unit" of the present invention.

[0111] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a "setting unit" is provided that sets the inspection-related area (inspection target area or inspection exclusion area) in the area setting information selected by the user as the inspection-related area for the image inspection (inspection job) to be performed by the image inspection device 50. In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 corresponds to the "setting unit" of the present invention.

[0112] In this way, by providing a configuration that allows past settings related to inspection-related areas to be reused, the workload (man-hours required for inputting operations) on the user when setting up inspection-related areas at the stage of setting up a new inspection job can be significantly reduced.

[0113] Specifically, as described above, in the image inspection system 1, a reference image job is executed to create a reference image for an inspection job, and an inspection area, etc. is set for this reference image, but there may arise a case where you want to start over from creating the reference image again.

[0114] In addition, there may be cases where you want to reuse information about an inspection-related area that you previously set. For example, you may have a reference image that is different from a previously created reference image only in color, and you want to set an inspection-related area in the same area as the previously set area, so you may want to reuse the settings you made previously.

[0115] According to this embodiment, as described above, it is possible to significantly reduce the workload (man-hours required for inputting operations) on the user in cases where a reference image needs to be recreated or where a previous setting of an inspection-related area needs to be reused, etc. In other words, when setting an inspection-related area for a new inspection job, the user only needs to call up the inspection profile (profile data).

[0116] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart of characteristic processing in this embodiment.

[0117] In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 saves (accumulates) the settings for the image inspection (inspection job), including the inspection-related areas (area setting information) set in the reference job (see step S10 in Figure 3), as the above-mentioned inspection profile in the data storage unit 51 (step S500).

[0118] In one specific example, the area setting information for the inspection-related area is added to the conventional inspection profile described above (i.e., data specifying the size of the paper S used for printing, the number of sheets and copies to be printed, whether double-sided printing or not, etc.), thereby becoming part of the configuration data of the inspection profile.

[0119] Furthermore, on the display screen described below, in order to present the user with an overview of the past examination profile, a thumbnail image of the reference image RI with the set examination-related area (examination target area or examination exclusion area) added (superimposed) forms part of the constituent data of the examination profile.

[0120] Thus, the image inspection device 50 performs the function of the "settings storage unit" of the present invention.

[0121] In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 stores the data file of the inspection profile in the data storage unit 51 as a file separate from the file that stores the results of the image inspection in the inspection job.

[0122] Therefore, the timing of saving in step S500 is not particularly limited, and the image inspection device 50 can execute the processing of step S500 at any or predetermined timing between the start and end of the inspection job, for example.

[0123] Next, when a new inspection job is set, past inspection profiles saved (accumulated) in the data storage unit 51 are read out and presented to the user in a selectable (or editable) form (step S600).

[0124] In step S600, the processor and display unit of any of the devices constituting the system are made to function as a "presentation unit" that presents an examination profile, which defines the settings for past image examinations, to the user in a manner that allows the user to select and edit it. In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 and the operation display unit 25 of the image forming device 20 correspond to the "presentation unit" of the present invention.

[0125] In one specific example, the image inspection device 50 communicates with the control unit 200 of the image forming device 20, displays various screens on the display unit 26 of the operation display unit 25 of the image forming device 20, and performs processing in response to selection operations of various icons (software buttons) etc. on such display screens.

[0126] Then, the image inspection device 50 sets the setting content selected (or edited) by the user as the inspection-related area for the image inspection in the new inspection job (step S700).

[0127] Thus, the image inspection device 50 performs the function of the "setting unit" of the present invention.

[0128] In this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 displays the above-mentioned inspection area setting screen on the display unit 26, and also displays a "call settings" button 353 and a "save settings" button 354 on the inspection area setting screen so that the user can select them, as shown in Figure 5.

[0129] When the setting save button 354 is selected, the image inspection device 50 saves the setting information, such as the inspection area set for this image inspection, in the data storage unit 51 as data that forms part of the inspection profile, with a name (file name).

[0130] In one specific example, the image inspection device 50 stores the data file in the data storage unit 51, giving it a name (profile name) that includes the time when the inspection area, etc. was newly set (time of setting or saving) for a set of reference images (four pages in this example) used in the inspection job.

[0131] For example, if a new setting such as an inspection area is made at 14:30:50 on July 26, 2019, the image inspection device 50 will name the data file "ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" and save it in the data storage unit 51.

[0132] 7 shows an example of a display screen after a data file named "ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" has been saved in the data storage unit 51 and this inspection job (image inspection) has been executed. In FIG. 7, the frame in which the cursor is positioned is indicated by the symbol CS.

[0133] Data files beginning with AnalysysJob, such as "AnalysysJob_20190726_145940" in Figure 7, are files that show the results of image inspection (analysis of the presence or absence of image defects) in the inspection job described above.

[0134] In this way, in this embodiment, the data file (inspection profile) containing the setting information for the inspection-related area is stored separately from the data file showing the results of the image inspection in the inspection job, thereby reducing the burden on the processor, etc. when reading or updating the setting information for the inspection area, etc.

[0135] Furthermore, by saving files with the above-mentioned file names, when the files stored in the data storage unit 51 are displayed in a list, it becomes easier to visually identify when and for what job the file was created.

[0136] These file names can also be changed (edited) to any file name by user input operations.

[0137] On the other hand, when the user selects the "call setting contents" button 360 from the state shown in Figure 7, or when the user selects the "call setting" button 353 on the inspection area setting screen in Figure 5, the image inspection device 50 performs the function of the "presentation unit" described above.

[0138] Specifically, the image inspection device 50 displays a list of file names of inspection profiles (file names beginning with ReferenceJob) as shown in Fig. 8 on the display unit 26. Details of the subsequent processing will be described later.

[0139] Additionally, the above-mentioned "call setting contents" button 360 and "call setting" button 353 are both buttons that act as triggers for calling up a list of file names of examination profiles as shown in FIG. 8, which will be described later.

[0140] However, when the "Call Settings" button 360 is selected with the cursor CS positioned on the file name of the Analysis Job on the display screen shown in Fig. 7, an examination result screen (not shown) showing the results of the image examination is displayed. Therefore, the following description will be given on the assumption that the Call Settings button 353 on the examination area setting screen shown in Fig. 5 is selected.

[0141] When the setting call button 353 is selected, the image inspection device 50 performs the function of a "presentation unit." Specifically, the image inspection device 50 reads out the file names of the inspection profiles saved (accumulated) in the data storage unit 51, and displays a list of the file names as shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit 26. For ease of explanation, the display screen shown in FIG. 8 will be referred to as the "list display screen" below.

[0142] Fig. 8 shows an example of a list display screen that is displayed on the display unit 26 when the setting call button 353 on the examination area setting screen shown in Fig. 5 is selected. Comparing Fig. 7 with Fig. 8, it can be seen that only the file names of the examination profiles (file names beginning with ReferenceJob) are read out on the list display screen in Fig. 8.

[0143] 8 displays a list of file names of image inspection profiles that were previously set and saved (accumulated) in the data storage unit 51 through selection of the Save Settings button 354. In this example, two file names (in other words, identifiers linked to the settings of past inspection jobs) are displayed.

[0144] Figure 9 shows the case where, when the cursor is positioned on the top-level file name "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" of the two file names shown in Figure 8 and the "Call Setting Contents" button 365 is selected, the setting contents of "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" are displayed on the display unit 26 under the control of the image inspection device 50.

[0145] At this time, the image inspection device 50 reads out the setting information specified in "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" (such as the number of pages of the reference image, the size of the paper S on each page, and the coordinate position of the inspection-related area (in this example, the inspection-exclusion area) set on each page (reference image)) into a working area such as a RAM (not shown), and displays an image related to the reference image on the right side of the display unit 26.

[0146] Hereinafter, the display screen shown in FIG. 9 will be referred to as the "call setting screen."

[0147] Here, in the "Source" column on the right side of the call setting screen shown in Figure 9, "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050," that is, the reference images of four pages of printed material (each indicated by the symbol "RI1") as the subject of image inspection in the past inspection job, and the inspection exclusion areas set for each page (indicated by the symbol "DA1" or "EDA1" in the figure) are displayed with thumbnail images arranged vertically so that they can be seen.

[0148] Here, the page number of each reference image RI1 ("1P" to "4P") is displayed in the lower left corner of the "Source" column, and the size of the paper S of the reference image RI1 (in this example, all are "A4") is displayed in the lower right corner of each reference image RI1.

[0149] If the reference image RI1 has five or more pages, the user can scroll through the reference images RI1 from page 5 onwards by selecting the scroll buttons indicated by "<" and ">" at the bottom right of the call setting screen.

[0150] Below the scroll buttons on the call setting screen, there are displayed a "Complete Settings" button 397 for finalizing the content being edited on the call setting screen, and a "Cancel Settings" button 398 for canceling the content being edited.

[0151] Furthermore, the inspection exclusion area indicated by the symbol DA1 in the reference image RI1 is an inspection exclusion area relating to areas other than the edges of the sheet S, which is set through the area setting unit 330 in Fig. 5, and will be referred to below as the "inspection exclusion area." On the other hand, the inspection exclusion area indicated by the symbol EDA1 in the reference image RI1 is an inspection exclusion area relating to the edges of the sheet S, which is set through the edge exclusion setting unit 340 in Fig. 5, and will be referred to below as the "edge inspection exclusion area" for the sake of distinction.

[0152] Specifically, for the first page (1P) of the "source", the numbers (the two page numbers "1" above and below) in the reference image RI1 (paper S) are set as the inspection exclusion area DA1, and for the second page (2P), the area at the left edge of paper S (the margin area) is set as the inspection exclusion area DA1.

[0153] Furthermore, it can be seen that for the third page (3P) in the "source", the margin areas at the left and bottom edges of the paper S are each set as the inspection exclusion area DA1, and for the fourth page (4P), the number at the bottom of the paper S (the page number "4" at the bottom) is set as the inspection exclusion area DA1.

[0154] Furthermore, it can be seen that a common edge inspection excluded area EDA1 is set for all pages (1 to 4P) in the "source of application."

[0155] In the example shown in Figure 9, the cursor CS (shown by a dotted line in the figure) is positioned on the first page (1P) of the four pages as the default display. This cursor CS can be moved to the second page (2P) or below by the user operating a mouse or the like.

[0156] Furthermore, on the left side of the call setting screen shown in Fig. 9, the first page (page 1) of the reference image to be used in the newly performed inspection job (image inspection) is displayed as the "target" as a default display. Here, to distinguish it from the "source" image, the "target" reference image is given the symbol RI2, the inspection exclusion area is given the symbol DA2, and the edge inspection exclusion area is given the symbol EDA2.

[0157] In the illustrated example, the paper S used in this inspection job (image inspection) is the same A4 size as the paper S used in "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" (hereinafter referred to as "past inspection job" or "source").

[0158] In relation to the initial position of the cursor CS described above, the reference image RI2 of page 1 of the current inspection job displays the inspection exclusion area DA2 and edge inspection exclusion area EDA2 corresponding to the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set on the first page (1P) of the previous inspection job at the same coordinate positions on the paper S.

[0159] Furthermore, if the cursor CS is moved (lowered) from the state shown in Figure 9 to specify another page to which the image is to be applied, the display of the inspection exclusion area DA2 displayed (added) to the reference image RI2 to which the image is to be applied also changes, but the display of the edge inspection exclusion area EDA2 does not change.

[0160] Furthermore, between the reference image RI1 from which the settings are applied and the reference image RI2 to which the settings are applied, i.e., in the vertical direction in the center of the screen shown in Figure 9, an ``Apply all page settings'' button 370, a specified page settings application section 380, and a selected page settings application section 390 are displayed.

[0161] The following describes the operations that occur when these buttons are selected by the user, divided into categories according to the purpose of use.

[0162] (When reusing the settings of the inspection exclusion area stored in the data storage unit 51 as is) First, as the simplest example, we will explain the case where the settings for the inspection exclusion areas (DA1, EDA1) set in a previous inspection job (image inspection) are reused as is (as DA2, EDA2) in the current inspection job (image inspection) without editing.

[0163] The "Apply settings to all pages" button 370 on the call settings screen shown in Figure 9 is a button that is selected when applying the settings from a past inspection job displayed on the right side of the screen (including settings that can be displayed by scrolling or other operations due to the large number of pages; the same applies below) to all pages in the current inspection job.

[0164] This Apply All Page Settings button 370 should be selected when the profile of the printed matter in the current inspection job (printing conditions such as paper size, number of pages, pages to be printed on both sides, images to be printed on each page, etc.) is the same as the configuration of the printed matter in any of the previous inspection jobs.

[0165] At the top center of the call setting screen shown in FIG. 9, a message is displayed indicating the effect of selecting the "Apply settings to all pages" button 370 (i.e., "Apply the examination-related areas for all pages of the application source read on the right side of the screen to all pages of the current reference image").

[0166] In addition, the next section of the screen displays a message indicating the effect of selecting the apply button 382 of the specified page setting application section 380 (i.e., "The inspection-related area of ​​the specified page among the pages of the application source read on the right side of the screen will be reflected on the same specified page of the current reference image").

[0167] Furthermore, in the row below, a message is displayed indicating the effect of selecting any of the buttons in the selected page setting application section 390 (i.e., "The examination-related area of ​​one selected page from each of the application source pages read on the right side of the screen will be reflected in the application destination of this reference image (the application destination of one of (1) to (5) described below)").

[0168] The following describes the operations when the user selects each button according to the purpose on the call setting screen shown in FIG.

[0169] (When applied to all pages) When the apply all page settings button 370 is selected in the state shown in FIG. 9, the image inspection device 50 performs the following process as step S700 described above with reference to FIG.

[0170] The image inspection device 50 sets the inspection area setting contents of the first page in the previous inspection job (hereinafter referred to as the "call profile") as the inspection area setting contents of the first page of the current inspection job, and then repeats the same setting process up to the final page (page 4 in this example), before terminating the process.

[0171] 10 (FIGS. 10A and 10B) compares reference images RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the call profile with reference images RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job. Here, the upper row, i.e., FIG. 10A, shows reference image RI1 of the call profile, and the lower row, i.e., FIG. 10B, shows reference image RI2 of the current inspection job, and the same applies to other figures described below.

[0172] As can be seen by comparing Figures 10A and 10B, when the Apply All Page Settings button 370 is selected, the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set on the reference image (paper S) of the profile are applied as is to the corresponding pages of the current inspection job (see the areas marked DA2 and EDA2).

[0173] Thus, for example, the user can select the setting call button 353 from the inspection area setting screen of FIG. 5 to display the list of profile names of FIG. 8, and then move the cursor from the list to a profile that can be used for the current inspection job and select the setting content call button 365, thereby displaying the call setting screen of FIG. 9 on the display unit 26.

[0174] Then, with a very minimal input operation, the user can use the settings for the image inspection area (inspection-related area, in this example, the inspection-exclusion area) set in the previous inspection job in the current inspection job by simply selecting the Apply All Page Settings button 370 on the call settings screen in Figure 9.

[0175] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0176] When the Apply All Page Settings button 370 on the call setting screen in Figure 9 is selected, the image inspection device 50 determines whether the total number of pages in the call profile (4 pages in this example) matches the total number of pages in the current inspection job, and if they match, performs the setting process described above (see Figures 10A and 10B).

[0177] On the other hand, if the image inspection device 50 determines that the total number of pages in the call profile (4 pages) does not match the total number of pages in the current inspection job, it displays a warning message, such as that shown in Figure 11, on the display unit 26 to alert the user.

[0178] In the example shown in Figure 11, the final page of the reference image RI2 for the current inspection job (i.e., the target) is set only up to page 3, and a warning message is displayed stating that "the inspection area setting for page 4 of the call profile was not applied because there are no pages beyond the 4th page of the inspection job."

[0179] Figure 12 (Figures 12A and 12B) shows a case in which the warning message in Figure 11 is displayed, comparing the reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the call profile with the situation in which the fourth page of the reference image RI2 has not been set in the current inspection job.

[0180] As can be seen by comparing Figures 12A and 12B, when the Apply All Page Settings button 370 is selected, if the reference image RI2 of any page of the current inspection job, in this example the fourth page, is not set for the reference image RI1 of each page of the call profile, the settings of the inspection-related area on the fourth page of the call profile will not be reflected in the settings of the current inspection job.

[0181] By displaying such a warning message, the user can check the system status, such as whether the reference image RI2 for the current inspection job has not been completely set, before executing the inspection job, thereby improving convenience when setting up image inspection.

[0182] Although not shown in the figure, in the opposite case, i.e., when the Apply All Page Settings button 370 is selected, if the total number of pages of the reference image RI2 set in the current inspection job is greater than the total number of pages of the reference image RI1 in the call profile (4 pages) (for example, 5 pages), a warning message similar to that in Figure 11 will be displayed, such as a warning message saying, "No inspection-related area is set on the 5th page of the inspection job."

[0183] (When applying the settings for the inspection exclusion area of ​​a specified page in the call profile to the corresponding page of this inspection job) Next, a case will be described in which the settings of designated pages (for example, some pages) for the inspection exclusion area set in a past inspection job are used (applied) to the corresponding pages of the current inspection job.

[0184] The designated page setting application section 380 in the call setting screen shown in Figure 9 is a user interface that is selected when applying the settings of a past inspection job (source) displayed on the right side of the screen to some of the pages in the current inspection job.

[0185] The specified page setting application unit 380 can be used effectively when the configuration of the printed material to be inspected in the current inspection job (paper size, number of pages, pages to be printed on both sides, images to be printed on each page, etc.) partially matches the configuration of the printed material in any of the inspection jobs performed in the past.

[0186] As shown in FIG. 9, this specified page setting application section 380 displays a range specification field 381 for inputting and specifying a page range, and an "Apply to Pages" button (hereinafter simply referred to as the "Apply button") 382 for confirming the input page range.

[0187] When the user selects the Apply button 382, ​​the image inspection device 50 performs the following process as step S700 described above in Fig. 6. Note that this example assumes that "1, 4", i.e., the first and fourth pages, are specified in the range specification field 381.

[0188] The image inspection device 50 sets the contents of the inspection area settings of the specified pages (pages 1 and 4) of the call profile as the contents of the inspection area of ​​pages 1 and 4 of the current inspection job, respectively, and then terminates processing.

[0189] FIG. 13 (FIGS. 13A and 13B) shows a comparison between a reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the reference image of the call profile and a reference image RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job.

[0190] As can be seen by comparing Figures 13A and 13B, when the apply button 382 of the specified page setting application section 380 is selected, the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set on the first page of the call profile reference image RI1 are applied as is to the first page of the current inspection job (see the areas marked DA2 and EDA2 on the first page).

[0191] In addition, the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set on the fourth page of the call profile reference image RI1 are applied as is to the fourth page of this inspection job (see the areas marked DA2 and EDA2 on the fourth page).

[0192] On the other hand, for the second and third pages of this inspection job (destination), only the edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set in common for each page of the reference image RI1 of the call profile (source) is applied (see the area marked EDA2 on the second and third pages), and the inspection exclusion area DA1 is not applied.

[0193] Thus, the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 (presentation unit) present the setting contents in an editable manner through the above-mentioned specified page setting application unit 380 and selected page setting application unit 390 so that part of the setting contents of the call profile (part of the inspection-related areas included in one inspection profile) is applied to the reference image in a new inspection job, and the other part is not applied.

[0194] In addition, one function of the "setting unit" in this embodiment is to set the inspection-related area of ​​at least one page of paper (the reference image RI2 from which the area setting information is applied) included in the area setting information selected by the user as the inspection-related area of ​​a new inspection job (the image inspection that the image inspection device 50 is to perform).

[0195] Thus, the user can perform the same operations as described above from the inspection area setting screen of Fig. 5 to display the list of file names of Fig. 8 and the call setting screen of Fig. 9 on the display unit 26. Then, with a simple input operation of inputting the designated page into the range specification field 381 on the call setting screen of Fig. 9 and selecting the apply button 382, ​​the settings of the image inspection area (inspection-related area, inspection exclusion area in this example) set on the designated page of the previous inspection job can be used as is on the corresponding page of the current inspection job.

[0196] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0197] When the Apply button 382 on the call setting screen of FIG. 8 is selected, the image inspection device 50 determines whether the content specified in the range specification field 381 is correct, and if it is correct, performs the setting process described above (see FIGS. 12A and 12B).

[0198] On the other hand, if the image inspection device 50 determines that the content specified in the range specification field 381 is incorrect (i.e., there is an error), it displays a warning message on the display unit 26 in the same display format as that shown in Figure 11 above to alert the user.

[0199] Here, examples of cases where there is an error in the content specified in the range specification field 381 include, as mentioned above, when the printed matter for the current inspection job only has up to three pages, and also when the corresponding page does not exist in the call profile (for example, when "4,5" is entered in the range specification field 381).

[0200] (When applying the settings for one page in the call profile to the desired page of this inspection job) Next, a case will be described in which the setting contents of one page of the inspection exclusion area set in a past inspection job are used (applied) to a desired page of the current inspection job.

[0201] The selected page setting application section 390 in the screen shown in Figure 9 is a user interface for specifying whether the settings of a specific page (page 1 in the illustrated example) of the call profile selected with the cursor on the right side of the screen should be applied to (1) the front side (i.e., odd-numbered pages), (2) the back side (i.e., even-numbered pages), (3) the page currently displayed as "apply to" on the left side of the screen (page 1 in this example), (4) any specified page, or (5) all pages of the printed material that is the subject of this inspection job.

[0202] 9, the selected page setting application section 390 displays (1) "Apply to front side" button 391, (2) "Apply to back side" button 392, (3) "Apply to displayed pages" button 393, (4) page range input field 394 and "Apply to page" button 395, and (5) "Apply to all pages" button 396. Below, the above (1) to (5) will be explained in order.

[0203] (1) When applying the settings of the inspection exclusion area on the first page of the calling profile to each surface of this job As a specific example, a case will be described in which the "Apply to front surface" button 391 is selected from the state shown in Fig. 9, that is, from the state in which the cursor CS on the right side of the screen is on the first page (1P) of the call profile. In this case, the image inspection device 50 performs the following process as step S700 described above in Fig. 6.

[0204] The image inspection device 50 sets the inspection area setting contents of the first page of the called profile (inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1) as the inspection area setting contents of the first page of the current inspection job (inspection exclusion area DA2 and edge exclusion area EDA2), and then repeats the same setting process up to the last odd-numbered page of the current inspection job (page 3 in this example), before terminating the process.

[0205] FIG. 14 (FIGS. 14A and 14B) shows a comparison between a reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the call profile and a reference image RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job.

[0206] As can be seen by comparing Figures 14A and 14B, when the "Apply to front" button 391 is selected, the positions and sizes of the two inspection exclusion areas DA1 set on the first page of the call profile are applied to each front of the current inspection job, i.e., the first and third pages (odd pages).

[0207] On the other hand, for the second and fourth pages (even-numbered pages) of this inspection job, only the edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set in common to each page of the call profile reference image RI1 is applied (see the area marked EDA2 on the second and fourth pages), and none of the inspection exclusion areas DA1 are applied.

[0208] Thus, the user can display the list in Fig. 8 and the call setting screen in Fig. 9 by performing the same operations as described above from the setting screen in Fig. 5. Then, with a very minimal input operation, by selecting the "Apply to front" button 391 with the cursor CS in the initial position on the call setting screen in Fig. 9, one page of the settings for the image inspection area (inspection-related area, inspection-exclusion area in this example) set in the previous inspection job can be used as is on each front side (odd-numbered page) of the current inspection job.

[0209] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0210] (2) When applying the settings for the inspection exclusion area on the first page of the call profile to each back side of this job Next, a case will be described in which the "apply to back side" button 392 is selected in the state shown in Fig. 9 (a state in which the cursor CS is on the first page). In this case, the control unit 200 performs the following process as step S700 described above with reference to Fig. 6.

[0211] The control unit 200 sets the inspection area setting contents of the first page of the call profile (inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1) as the inspection area setting contents of the second page of the current inspection job (inspection exclusion area DA2 and edge exclusion area EDA2), and then repeats the same setting process up to the final even-numbered page of the current inspection job (page 4 in this example), before terminating the process.

[0212] In addition, if there is an error in the specified content, for example, if only the reference image RI1 on the first page is set for the current inspection job, the control unit 200 will display a warning message or the like on the display unit 26 to alert the user.

[0213] FIG. 15 (FIGS. 15A and 15B) shows a comparison between a reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the reference image of the call profile and a reference image RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job.

[0214] As can be seen by comparing Figures 15A and 15B, when the "Apply to back side" button 392 is selected, the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 set on the first page of the profile is applied to each back side of the current inspection job, i.e., the second and fourth pages.

[0215] On the other hand, for the first and third pages (odd-numbered pages) of this inspection job, only the edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set in common to each page of the call profile reference image RI1 is applied (see the area marked EDA2 on the first and third pages), and none of the inspection exclusion areas DA1 are applied.

[0216] Thus, the user can display the list in Fig. 8 and the call setting screen in Fig. 9 by performing the same operations as described above from the setting screen in Fig. 5. Then, by simply changing the position of the cursor CS in the call setting screen in Fig. 9 as appropriate and selecting the "Apply to back side" button 392, one page of the settings for the image inspection area (inspection-related area, inspection exclusion area in this example) set in the previous inspection job can be used as is on each back side (even-numbered pages) of the current inspection job, with only a few input operations.

[0217] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0218] In this way, the "presentation unit" of this embodiment has the function of displaying the settings of the inspection-related area (inspection area or inspection exclusion area) of one page of the call profile to be applied, skipping one page on the front (odd pages) or back (even pages) specified by the user in a new inspection job.

[0219] By providing such a function, for example, if you want to apply only the shape information of the inspection-related area of ​​a specific page from the saved (source) profile data to only the front or back side of the current inspection job, the user's input operations regarding the settings can be reduced.

[0220] (3) When the "Apply to displayed page" button 393 is selected Next, a case will be described where the "Apply to displayed page" button 393 is selected by a user's input operation from the state shown in Fig. 9. In this case, image inspection device 50 performs the following process as step S700 described above with reference to Fig. 6.

[0221] The image inspection device 50 sets the contents of the inspection area setting of the page of the call profile where the cursor CS is currently positioned on the call setting screen shown in Figure 9 (page 1 in the example shown in Figure 9) as the contents of the inspection area setting of the page (e.g., page 2) in the current inspection job currently displayed as the destination on the left side of the screen, and then terminates the processing.

[0222] The image inspection device 50 then applies the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 set for the first page of the call profile to only the second page of the current inspection job. On the other hand, the image inspection device 50 applies only the edge exclusion area EDA1 described above to the other pages in the current inspection job.

[0223] FIG. 16 (FIGS. 16A and 16B) shows a comparison between a reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the reference image of the call profile and a reference image RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job.

[0224] As can be seen by comparing Figures 16A and 16B, when the "Apply to displayed page" button 393 is selected, the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 set on the first page of the profile are applied to the second page of the current inspection job.

[0225] On the other hand, for the first, third, and fourth pages of this inspection job, only the edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set in common for each page of the call profile reference image RI1 is applied (see the area marked EDA2 on the first, third, and fourth pages), and none of the inspection exclusion areas DA1 are applied.

[0226] Generally, the user performs the same operations as described above from the setting screen of Fig. 5 to display the list display screen of Fig. 8 and then the call setting screen of Fig. 9. Then, by performing a simple operation and input work, such as appropriately moving the initial position of the cursor CS in the call setting screen of Fig. 9 and selecting the "Apply to displayed page" button 393, one page of the settings for the image inspection area (exclusion area) set in the previous inspection job can be used as is on one page of the current inspection job (the second page in the above example).

[0227] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0228] (4) When the page range input field 394 and the apply button 395 are used Next, a case will be described in which the cursor CS is moved to the second page of the call profile from the state shown in Fig. 9, the user inputs "1, 3" into the "Enter page range" field 394, and selects the "Apply to pages" button (hereinafter simply referred to as the "apply button") 395. In this case, the image inspection device 50 performs the following process as step S700 described above in Fig. 6.

[0229] The image inspection device 50 sets the contents of the inspection area settings for the second page of the called profile (inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1) as the contents of the inspection area settings for the first and third pages of the current inspection job (inspection exclusion area DA2 and edge exclusion area EDA2).

[0230] FIG. 17 (FIGS. 17A and 17B) shows a comparison between a reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the call profile and a reference image RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job.

[0231] As can be seen by comparing Figures 17A and 17B, in the above example, the position and size of the inspection exclusion area DA1 set on the second page of the call profile are applied to the specified pages of the current inspection job (destination), i.e., the first and third pages.

[0232] On the other hand, for the second and fourth pages of this inspection job, only the edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 set in common to each page of the call profile reference image RI1 is applied (see the area marked EDA2 on the second and fourth pages), and none of the inspection exclusion areas DA1 are applied.

[0233] Thus, the user can display the list display screen of Fig. 8 and the call setting screen of Fig. 9 by performing the same operations as described above from the setting screen of Fig. 5. Then, by appropriately moving the cursor CS in the call setting screen of Fig. 9, inputting the specified page in the "Enter page range" field 394, and selecting the apply button 395, with a simple input operation, one page of the settings for the image inspection area (inspection-related area, inspection exclusion area in this example) set in the previous inspection job can be used as is for the specified page of the current inspection job.

[0234] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0235] (5) When the "Apply to all pages" button 396 is selected As another specific example, a case will be described in which, from the state shown in Fig. 9, the user moves the cursor CS on the right side of the screen to the third page of the call profile by input operation, and then selects the "Apply to all pages" button 396. In this case, the image inspection device 50 performs the following process as step S700 described above in Fig. 6.

[0236] The image inspection device 50 sets the inspection area setting contents of the third page of the call profile (inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1) as the inspection area setting contents of the first page of the current inspection job (inspection exclusion area DA2 and edge exclusion area EDA2), and then repeats the same setting process up to the final page of the current inspection job (page 4 in this example), before terminating the process.

[0237] FIG. 18 (FIGS. 18A and 18B) shows a comparison between a reference image RI1 of pages 1 to 4 of the call profile and a reference image RI2 of pages 1 to 4 of the current inspection job.

[0238] As can be seen by comparing Figures 18A and 18B, when the "Apply to all pages" button 396 is selected, the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge inspection exclusion area EDA1 (position and size) set on the third page of the call profile are applied to all pages (pages 1 to 4) of the current inspection job.

[0239] Thus, the user can display the list display screen of Fig. 8 and the call setting screen of Fig. 9 by performing the same operations as described above from the setting screen of Fig. 5. Then, by simply moving the cursor CS in the call setting screen of Fig. 9 appropriately and selecting the "Apply to all pages" button 396, the settings for one page of the image inspection area (inspection-related area, in this example, the inspection exclusion area) set in the previous inspection job can be used as is for all pages of the current inspection job, with just a few input operations.

[0240] Therefore, according to this embodiment, convenience in setting up an image examination is greatly improved.

[0241] Thus, in this embodiment, a selection page setting application section 390 using the various buttons described above is displayed within the call setting screen shown in FIG.

[0242] In other words, the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 (presentation unit) have the function of displaying the settings of the inspection-related area (inspection area or inspection exclusion area) of one page of the source call profile to be applied to any one or more pages specified by the user in a new inspection job.

[0243] By providing such a function, for example, if you want to apply only the shape information of the inspection-related area of ​​a specific page from the saved (source) profile data to only a specific page of the current inspection job, the user's input operations and other work required for the setting can be reduced.

[0244] In this way, with the configuration of this embodiment, various "selections" regarding the setting of the image inspection range (in this example, the exclusion range) for the current inspection job, specifically, the selection of the profile (file name) to be applied from, the selection of the page to be applied from within the selected call profile, and the selection of the page to be applied to within the printed material to be image inspected, can be made with minimal input operations.

[0245] (Other features) Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inspection-related area (in this example, the inspection exclusion area DA2 to which the inspection is applied) of the current inspection job (image inspection) can be easily specified by various operations.

[0246] (Inspection-related area position adjustment function) When the call setting screen in Figure 9 is displayed, if the cursor CS (in the illustrated example, the first page (1P)) located on the right side of the screen is moved to the left by dragging the mouse, under the control of the image inspection device 50, the source inspection exclusion area DA1 (in this example, two rectangular areas, one above the other) is appropriately enlarged and displayed as the inspection exclusion area DA2 on the paper on which the target reference image RI is displayed (in the illustrated example, the first page).

[0247] At this time, the user can also set (adjust or change) the inspection exclusion area DA2 to a position different from the original position as appropriate, as shown in FIG. 19, by performing a drop operation of the mouse at the right time.

[0248] Specifically, the image inspection device 50 stores the coordinate positions of the four corners of the two inspection exclusion areas DA2 after the above drop operation, and when the "Setting complete" button 395 shown in Fig. 19 is selected, the image inspection device 50 sets the stored information as the inspection exclusion area DA2 of the first page of the current inspection job. Note that the image inspection device 50 sets the edge exclusion area EDA2 without changing its coordinate position.

[0249] Although not shown, the user can also move the cursor CS to the fourth page of the call profile from the call setting screen display state of Figure 9, and switch the display of the reference image RI2 for the current inspection job on the left side of the screen to the second page, and perform the same drag-and-drop operation as described above.

[0250] Thus, according to this embodiment, one or more inspection-related areas (in this example, two inspection exclusion areas DA2) set in the reference image RI2 of any page of the call profile can be set at any position in the reference image RI1 of any page of the current inspection job at once.

[0251] Generally, the method of setting the inspection-related area using the drag-and-drop operation of the mouse described above in Figure 19 can be suitably used when you want to shift the position of the inspection-related area to be set on the paper S while maintaining the shape of the inspection-related area of ​​the call profile (in this example, the inspection exclusion area DA1).

[0252] Thus, in this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 (presentation unit) display the inspection-related area (exclusion area DA1) of the area setting information from the reference image RI1 of the paper on which the inspection-related area is displayed so that the inspection-related area can be moved onto the reference image RI2 used in the current image inspection. Then, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) sets the coordinate position on the reference image RI2 of the moved inspection-related area as the position of the inspection-related area for the image inspection that the image inspection device 50 (image inspection unit) is to perform.

[0253] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 (presentation unit) display each of the inspection exclusion areas DA1 from the reference image RI1 of the paper displaying the multiple inspection exclusion areas DA1 of the area setting information so that each of the inspection exclusion areas DA1 can be moved simultaneously onto the reference image RI2 to be used in the current image inspection by a user operation. Then, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) sets the (coordinate) position on the reference image RI of the moved inspection-related area as the position of the inspection-related area for the new inspection job (image inspection to be performed by the image inspection device 50).

[0254] In other words, in this image inspection device 50, the inspection-related areas of one page (in this example, multiple inspection exclusion areas DA1) in the source reference image RI1 are treated as one shape data and displayed accordingly, so even if there are multiple inspection exclusion areas DA1 in one source page, they can be moved onto the destination reference image RI2 with a single mouse operation.

[0255] According to this embodiment with such a configuration, when it is desired to apply only the shape information of the inspection exclusion area of ​​a specific page from the area setting information (profile data) of the source (saved) to only a specific page of the reference image RI2 to which it is to be applied, the user's effort in setting can be significantly reduced.

[0256] (Automatic scaling of inspection-related areas when paper sizes differ) In this embodiment, it is possible to cope with a case where the size of the paper used for printed matter in a previous inspection job (source of application) is different from the size of the paper used in the current inspection job.

[0257] For example, as shown in Figure 20, even if the first page (1P) of the call profile (i.e., the reference image RI1 set in a previous inspection job) is A4R paper, and the paper to be applied, i.e., used in the current inspection job, is A3, the reference image (RI) and the inspection exclusion area (DA) can be enlarged by the corresponding magnification and applied.

[0258] 20 is an example of a call setting screen corresponding to the above-mentioned FIG. 9, and for the sake of convenience of explanation, various buttons (370 to 390, etc.) are omitted from the illustration.

[0259] As a specific example, a case will be described in which, as described above, the apply button 382 is selected with "1", that is, only the first page, specified in the range specification field 381 of the page setting application section 380 (see FIG. 9).

[0260] In this case, as described above, the image inspection device 50 sets the contents of the inspection area setting of the designated page (first page) of the call profile as the contents of the inspection area setting of the first page of the current inspection job.

[0261] At this time, the image inspection device 50 acquires the paper size (A4R in this example) of the specified page (first page) of the call profile and the paper size (A3 in this example) of the corresponding page (first page) of the current inspection job.

[0262] Next, the image inspection device 50 compares each of the acquired paper sizes and calculates the enlargement or reduction ratio in each of the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction for paper of different sizes (in this example, A4R and A3 for the first page) (in this example, 141%).

[0263] Then, the image inspection device 50 multiplies the calculated magnification rate (141%) by the width in the main scanning direction and the width in the sub-scanning direction of the inspection exclusion area, applies the result as the inspection exclusion area DA2 of the corresponding page (first page) of the current inspection job, and displays the enlarged size on the reference image RI2 to which the call setting screen is applied (see Figure 20).

[0264] Then, when the "Settings Complete" button 395 is selected in the state of FIG. 20, the image inspection device 50 sets information such as the coordinate position of the enlarged inspection exclusion area DA2 in the current inspection job.

[0265] In other words, when the paper size at the destination (the current inspection job) differs from the paper size at the source (the paper size linked to the area setting information of the call profile), the image inspection device 50 changes the dimensions of the inspection-related area (inspection exclusion area DA2) to be executed in the destination inspection job (i.e., enlarges it to 141%) according to the magnification (141%) to match the paper size.

[0266] According to this embodiment with such a configuration, the user's effort in setting up can be significantly reduced in cases where the original reference image RI2 and the inspection-related area (inspection exclusion area DA1) set on the reference image RI2 are used (reused) as is, while only the size of the paper to be used in the current inspection job is to be changed.

[0267] On the other hand, regardless of the calculated magnification ratio (141%), the image inspection device 50 applies the edge exclusion area EDA1 to the corresponding page (first page) of the current inspection job using the original setting values ​​(see each column of the edge exclusion setting section 340 in Figure 5) and displays and sets it for the reference image RI2 to which it is applied on the call setting screen (see Figure 20).

[0268] In other words, when the inspection-related area set in the area setting information from which the image inspection device 50 is applied includes an inspection exclusion area at the edge of the paper (edge ​​exclusion area EDA1), the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) sets the set width dimension of the edge exclusion area EDA1 from the edge of the paper without changing it, regardless of the magnification used to match the paper size.

[0269] This is because the dimensions (set values) of the set widths from the paper edges in the edge exclusion areas (EDA1 and EDA2) do not need to be enlarged or reduced depending on the size of the paper.

[0270] In this way, according to this embodiment, the area setting information for the reference image of the application destination (the current inspection job) is set taking into account differences in paper size between the source and destination, and differences in the properties of the inspection exclusion area, etc., thereby greatly improving user convenience when setting up an inspection job.

[0271] (Exclusion area overlapping) Furthermore, in this embodiment, the so-called "overlapping application" of the inspection exclusion area (DA) is possible.

[0272] In one specific example, the reference image RI to be used in the current inspection job is displayed on the inspection area setting screen described above in Figure 5, and when the inspection-related area (in this example, the inspection-exclusion area) is specified (edited) by operating each button on the right side of the screen, if the "call settings" button 353 in Figure 5 is selected, the list display screen (list of file names) described above in Figure 8 is displayed.

[0273] Next, when the "Call Settings" button 365 is selected with the cursor CS positioned on either of the two file names shown in FIG. 8 (for example, the file name "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050"), the image inspection device 50 executes the above-mentioned overlap application process.

[0274] In this embodiment, the above-described process of applying overlapping can be performed by selecting two (or three or more) of the two file names shown in Fig. 8. However, for simplicity, the following description will be given of the case where only one file is selected and overlapping is applied.

[0275] In one specific example, when the "call setting contents" button 365 is selected, the image inspection device 50 displays the call setting screen described above in Fig. 9 on the display unit 26 and executes the overlay application process. The overlay application process will be described below with reference to Figs. 9 and 21, etc.

[0276] The upper row in Figure 21 (the row indicated by "Call Profile") shows the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1 for each page of the reference image RI1 set to "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050" displayed on the right side of the call setting screen.

[0277] In addition, the middle section of Figure 21 (the section indicated as "Reference image before application of the above profile") shows the inspection exclusion area DA and edge exclusion area EDA for each page of the reference image RI that was specified (edited) on the inspection area setting screen (Figure 5), which is displayed on the left side (application destination) of the call setting screen.

[0278] Furthermore, the lower part of Figure 21 (the part indicated as "Reference image after profile application") shows the display state of the reference image RI2 displayed on the left side of the call setting screen when the inspection exclusion areas DA1 and DA of each page shown in the upper and middle parts of Figure 21 are applied in overlapping fashion.

[0279] In one specific example, when the "Settings Complete" button 397 shown in Figure 9 is selected in the display state of the overlay application shown in the lower part of Figure 21, the image inspection device 50 confirms the contents of the overlay application as the setting information for the current inspection job.

[0280] In general, before applying the overlay, the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 (presentation unit) display the reference image RI to be used in the current inspection job, with the inspection-related areas being edited (in this example, the inspection exclusion area DA and the edge exclusion area EDA) added, as shown in the middle part of Figure 21.

[0281] In addition, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) overlays the reference image RI to which the inspection-related areas have been added with the inspection-related areas (inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1) in the area setting information of the call profile to be applied, selected by the user (see the lower part of Figure 21).

[0282] Then, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) sets the overlapped inspection-related areas (inspection exclusion areas DA, DA1 and edge exclusion areas EDA, EDA1) as the inspection-related areas for the current inspection job.

[0283] From the viewpoint of reducing the processing load on the processor, it is desirable to limit (set an upper limit on) the number of inspection-related areas that can be set for one page to which the application is applied (hereinafter referred to as the "number of designated areas").

[0284] In this case, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) determines whether the upper limit of the number of designated areas per page to which the overlapping process is to be applied is exceeded when the overlapping process is applied, and if the upper limit is not exceeded, executes the overlapping process described above.

[0285] On the other hand, if the number of overlapping images exceeds the upper limit, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) does not execute the overlapping application process, and displays a predetermined warning on the display unit 26. Here, the predetermined warning is, for example, a message stating that "the upper limit number that can be set has been exceeded, so overlapping images could not be applied."

[0286] 22 shows an example of a case where the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) displays a warning message on the display unit 26 because the upper limit of the number of designated areas per page has been exceeded during the process of applying the overlapping. In this example, the number of designated areas on the first and third pages to which the overlapping is applied exceeds a predetermined upper limit (for example, 10), and therefore a warning message is displayed to the effect that the overlapping cannot be applied.

[0287] (Simultaneous application of multiple call profiles) The above-mentioned overlap application process is a process that is executed while editing the inspection-related area (in this example, the inspection-exclusion area), and therefore has the disadvantage that the content being edited (the setting content shown in the middle of Figure 21) cannot be saved.

[0288] Therefore, a user who wants to save the edited contents of the inspection-related area (exclusion area) can select, for example, the "Save Settings" button 354 in Figure 5, and save the setting data of the inspection profile in the data storage unit 51 under the control of the image inspection device 50, and then select multiple file names (two in this example) that include the saved setting data.

[0289] That is, in this embodiment, by operating a mouse or the like, multiple file names presented on the list display screen of Fig. 8 can be selected at once, and the settings of the inspection-related area (exclusion area) defined in these multiple files can be simultaneously applied as settings for the current inspection job. Such simultaneous application processing will be described below with reference to Fig. 23 etc.

[0290] The top row of Figure 23 shows the inspection exclusion area DA1 and edge exclusion area EDA1 set on each page of the reference image RI1 of "1.ReferenceJob_20190726_143050," which is displayed on the right side of the call setting screen, and is shown as "Call Profile A" in the figure.

[0291] In addition, the middle section of Figure 23 shows the inspection exclusion area DA1-1 and edge exclusion area EDA1-1 set on each page of the reference image RI1-1 of another call file (shown as "Call Profile B" in the figure), which is displayed next to (for example, to the left of) Call Profile A on the call setting screen.

[0292] Furthermore, the lower part of Fig. 23 shows the state in which the inspection exclusion areas (DA1, DA1-1) and edge exclusion areas EDA1, EDA1-1 set on each page of call profile A and call profile B are simultaneously applied to the reference image (RI2) set in this inspection job (reference job of image inspection).

[0293] In one specific example, before simultaneously applying multiple call profiles (A and B), the image inspection device 50 and the display unit 26 (presentation unit) display the reference image RI to be used in the current inspection job as the application destination.

[0294] In addition, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) applies to the reference image RI the inspection-related areas (inspection exclusion areas DA1, DA1-1 and edge exclusion areas EDA1, EDA1-1) in the area setting information of the multiple file names (call profiles A and B to which they are applied) selected by the user.

[0295] Then, the image inspection device 50 (setting unit) sets the applied inspection-related areas (inspection exclusion areas DA1, DA1-1 and end exclusion areas EDA1, EDA1-1) as the inspection-related areas (inspection exclusion area DA2 and end exclusion area EDA2) for the current inspection job (see the lower part of Figure 23).

[0296] In this case, it is also advisable to limit the number of inspection-related areas that can be set for one page to which the setting is applied (to set an upper limit on the number of designated areas).

[0297] The above-described overlapping application of the inspection-related regions and simultaneous application of the inspection-related regions of a plurality of call profiles are also useful, for example, when the image forming apparatus 20 performs so-called "overprinting" printing.

[0298] For example, in the case of "double printing" where a first image is printed on one sheet of paper S in a first print job and a second image is printed in a second print job, it is efficient not to perform image inspection in the first print job but to perform image inspection during the second print job.

[0299] In this case, an inspection profile in which an inspection-related area (exclusion area DA1, etc.) related to the first image is set is created in advance (saved in the data storage unit 51).

[0300] Then, when the second print job is executed, the inspection-related area for the second image (such as the inspection exclusion area DA shown in the middle of Figure 21) is edited and the above-mentioned overlap application process is performed, thereby making it possible to set the inspection-related area at once when executing the image inspection (inspection job) during the second print job.

[0301] Alternatively, a similar effect can be achieved by creating and saving an examination profile in which an examination-related area (such as the examination exclusion area DA1-1 shown in the middle of Figure 23) for the second image is set in advance, and then simultaneously applying the examination-related areas of the multiple call profiles described above.

[0302] In this way, by providing a configuration in which inspection-related areas are applied in a composite manner to printed materials of an inspection job, it is possible to further improve user convenience when setting inspection-related areas.

[0303] As described in detail above, the image inspection system 1 of this embodiment comprises an image inspection unit that performs image inspection based on area setting information in which an inspection target area that is the subject of image inspection or an inspection-exclusion area that is not the subject of image inspection is set as an inspection-related area on the paper S on which an image is formed, and a setting unit that sets the inspection-related area in the area setting information as an inspection-related area for a subsequent image inspection.

[0304] In addition, the image inspection system 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a setting storage unit that stores area setting information in the data storage unit 51, and a presentation unit that presents the file name of the stored area setting information and therefore the setting content to the user so that they can select it prior to image inspection.

[0305] According to the image inspection system 1 of this embodiment having such a configuration, it is possible to improve convenience when setting an inspection-related region.

[0306] In other words, according to this embodiment, for example, in a case where a user has previously created a reference image job and set an inspection area, and then wishes to start over by creating the reference image job again, the user can simply perform a simple operation such as calling up profile data when setting the inspection area again, thereby significantly reducing the user's workload.

[0307] Furthermore, when setting an inspection area or an inspection exclusion area using a mouse on the conventional inspection area setting screen described in Figure 5, there is a high possibility that the shape and coordinate position of the area will be shifted by several millimeters compared to the previous setting, making it difficult to save the inspection area setting information with exactly the same settings as the previous time.

[0308] In contrast to this, according to this embodiment, when setting an inspection area (area excluded from inspection), it is possible to reuse (reuse) information (basic shape, size, position on the paper, etc.) of a previously set inspection area (area excluded from inspection) as is by appropriately performing a drag-and-drop operation with the mouse, which is also useful in that it allows the application of an inspection area setting that is exactly the same as the previous inspection area setting data.

[0309] For the sake of simplicity, the above description has primarily referred to data relating to the "exclusion area (DA)," "edge exclusion area (EDA)," and "paper size" as information included in the inspection area setting information. However, actual inspection area setting information may include various other information.

[0310] Other information included in the inspection area setting information includes information for excluding specific images printed at specific positions on paper from image inspection, such as an "automatic image quality correction patch exclusion area" for excluding patch images printed on paper from image inspection when automatic image quality correction is performed periodically on an image forming device.

[0311] In addition, the inspection area setting information can include various other information, such as a "number designated area" that designates an area where the image of the page number mentioned above or various numerical values ​​such as prices are printed in order to exclude them from image inspection, a "barcode designated area" or "QR code designated area" that designates an area where a barcode or QR code (registered trademark, the same applies below) is printed in order to exclude them from image inspection, and a "thumbnail designated area" when thumbnail images of each page are printed.

[0312] The above-described inspection area setting information is assumed to be applied to a reference image when an inspection job is executed. As another example, the inspection area setting information may be applied to something other than the reference image. Specifically, the inspection area setting information may be applied to an "inspection job input screen" displayed at an earlier stage than the screen described in FIG. 5, or to a "scanned image for the output image of the inspection job" at a later stage.

[0313] In the above example, a rectangular frame is used as an object to specify the exclusion range (area) of the image inspection in the inspection area setting information, but the shape of the object for specifying such a range is not limited to a rectangle, and any other shape can be used, such as a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon other than a square.

[0314] In the above-described embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, an example has been described in which an image inspection (inspection job) is performed based on area setting information (inspection profile) in which an inspection exclusion area is set as an inspection-related area, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the same effect can be obtained even when an image inspection (inspection job) is performed based on area setting information (inspection profile) in which an inspection area is set as an inspection-related area.

[0315] However, as explained in FIG. 23, when multiple inspection profiles are applied at the same time, the following conflicts are likely to occur.

[0316] In other words, if an attempt is made to simultaneously apply area setting information in which an inspection-exclusion area is set and area setting information in which an inspection area is set as an inspection-related area, a so-called conflict will occur in the area where the inspection-exclusion area and the inspection area set within the page overlap.

[0317] When such a conflict occurs, the image inspection device 50 may display a warning message on the display unit 26 to prompt the user to make a selection or edit. Alternatively, a rule such as "in the area where the inspection area and the edge exclusion area overlap, the edge exclusion area takes priority (is not subject to image inspection)" may be set in advance.

[0318] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are merely examples of specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited by these embodiments. In other words, the present invention can be carried out in various forms without departing from the gist or main features thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0319] 1. Image inspection system 10 Paper feeder 20 Image forming device 21 Image forming unit 22 Fixing section 25 Operation display section 26 Display section (presentation section) 27 Control section 30 Image reader 31 Output image reading unit 40 Aftertreatment device 41 Sorting Department 42,43 Output tray 50 Image inspection device (image inspection unit, setting storage unit, setting unit) 51,52 Data storage section 60 PC 200 Image forming device control unit 310 Area type selection section 320 Target surface selection section 330 Area setting section 331 Confirm button 332 Delete button 333 Whole area specification button 340 End exclusion setting section 351 Setting completion button 352 Cancel setting button 353 Setting call button 354 Save Settings button 360,365 Setting contents call button 370 Apply all page settings button 380 Specified page setting application section 381 Range specification field 382 Apply button 390 Selected page setting application section 391 Apply to Surface button 392 Apply to back button 393 Apply to Display Page button Page 394 Application Input Field 395 Apply to Page button 396 Apply to all pages button 397 Setting completion button 398 Cancel setting button CS Cursor DA inspection exclusion area DA1,DA1-1 Exclusion area set in the call profile (applied from) DA2 Exclusion area set as the examination-related area for this imaging examination EDA Edge Inspection Exclusion Area EDA1, EDA1-1 Edge exclusion area set in the call profile (applied from) EDA2 Edge exclusion area set as the inspection-related area for this image inspection RI reference image RI1,RI1-1 Reference image to be applied RI2 Reference image with examination-related regions set S paper

Claims

1. An image inspection system that executes an image inspection job based on a plurality of inspection-related areas for image data obtained by scanning a sheet of paper on which an image has been formed, the inspection-related areas being areas that are excluded from or identified as areas to be inspected, a data storage unit for storing the plurality of inspection-related regions set for an executed image inspection job; a setting unit that sets the plurality of inspection-related areas stored in the data storage unit as a plurality of inspection-related areas of a new image inspection job that is different from the executed image inspection job, a part of the plurality of inspection-related areas of the new image inspection job can be edited based on a user operation, and the new image inspection job is executed based on the plurality of inspection-related areas that reflect the edited inspection-related areas; Image inspection system.

2. When the part of the test-related regions is two or more test-related regions, editing is performed for each test-related region. The image inspection system of claim 1 .

3. When setting the inspection-related area of ​​the new image inspection job, the setting unit edits the part of the inspection-related area and sets it as the inspection-related area of ​​the new image inspection job.

3. The image inspection system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The editing includes applying an inspection-related region to a predetermined page in the new image inspection job. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The predetermined pages are all pages in the new image inspection job. The image inspection system according to claim 4 .

6. The predetermined page is a page specified in the new image inspection job.

6. The image inspection system according to claim 4 or claim 5.

7. When the new image inspection job inspects both sides of a sheet of paper on which an image has been formed, the specified page is a page corresponding to one of the two sides.

7. The image inspection system according to claim 4 or claim 6.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the editing includes adjusting the position of the examination-related region. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The editing includes enlarging or reducing the examination-related area. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The editing is performed by mouse operation.

10. The image inspection system according to claim 8 or claim 9.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the editing includes disabling the inspection-related region from being applied to the new image inspection job. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. If the new image inspection job is an image inspection job for multiple pages, the inspection-related area can be edited for each page. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. Displaying the plurality of examination-related regions stored in the data storage unit. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The image inspection job is executed by comparing the image data with a reference image based on a plurality of inspection-related regions that have been set. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The reference image is an image based on image data obtained by previously reading a sheet of paper on which an image has been formed. The image inspection system of claim 14.

16. The data storage unit stores an inspection profile that associates the inspection-related region with the reference image.

16. An image inspection system according to claim 14 or claim 15.

17. The data storage unit saves the inspection profile by giving it a file name. The imaging inspection system of claim 16.

18. In the new image inspection job, a reference image is re-created. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 14 to 17.

19. When performing the editing, the reference image is displayed. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 14 to 18.

20. When performing the editing, the inspection-related area is displayed on the displayed reference image.

20. The imaging inspection system of claim 18.

21. The data storage unit stores the plurality of inspection-related areas for each of a plurality of image inspection jobs, a user selecting a plurality of inspection-related areas of a desired image inspection job from the plurality of inspection-related areas of each image inspection job stored in the data storage unit, and setting the plurality of inspection-related areas as the inspection-related areas of the new image inspection job; An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. When the plurality of inspection-related areas are selected by a user, a list of the plurality of inspection-related areas for each image inspection job stored in the data storage unit is displayed.

22. The imaging inspection system of claim 21.

23. When a user selects any one of the plurality of inspection-related areas displayed in the list display, a screen is displayed that allows the selected inspection-related area to be edited as an inspection-related area in the new image inspection job.

23. The imaging inspection system of claim 22.

24. After an image inspection job is completed, the inspection-related area stored in the data storage unit is saved without being deleted. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

25. The image inspection system further includes an image reading unit that reads an image formed on a sheet of paper and outputs image data. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 24.

26. The image inspection system further comprises: an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; a conveying unit that conveys paper on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit, the image reading unit reads the paper conveyed by the conveying unit; 26. The imaging inspection system of claim 25.

27. ​​The image inspection system further has a first paper output tray and a second paper output tray for outputting paper, The paper sheets determined as having no defects as a result of the image inspection are discharged to the first paper discharge tray, while the paper sheets determined as having defects are discharged to the second paper discharge tray. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

28. The test-related areas stored in the data storage unit are named. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 27.

29. The inspection-related area stored in the data storage unit is saved separately from the image inspection results of the image inspection job. An image inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 28.

30. Executing an image inspection job based on a plurality of inspection-related areas for image data obtained by reading a sheet on which an image is formed; storing the plurality of inspection-related regions set for the executed image inspection job in a data storage unit; setting the plurality of inspection-related areas stored in the data storage unit as a plurality of inspection-related areas of a new image inspection job different from the executed image inspection job, and executing the new image inspection job based on the plurality of inspection-related areas, wherein the inspection-related areas are areas to be excluded or identified from an inspection target, executing the new image inspection job includes being able to edit some of the plurality of inspection-related areas of the new image inspection job based on a user operation, and executing the new image inspection job based on the plurality of inspection-related areas that reflect the edited inspection-related areas. Imaging methods.

31. A computer comprising: A process of executing an image inspection job based on a plurality of inspection-related areas on image data obtained by reading a sheet on which an image is formed; a process of storing the plurality of inspection-related regions set for the executed image inspection job in a data storage unit; a process of setting the plurality of inspection-related areas read out from the data storage unit as inspection-related areas of a new image inspection job different from the executed image inspection job, and executing the new image inspection job based on the plurality of inspection-related areas, wherein the inspection-related areas are areas to be excluded or identified from an inspection target, The computer, further executing a process of editing some of the plurality of inspection-related areas of the new image inspection job based on a user operation; the process of executing the new image inspection job includes a process of executing the new image inspection job based on the plurality of inspection-related regions that reflect the edited inspection-related regions. Image inspection program.

32. An image inspection system, comprising: an image inspection job executed on image data obtained by scanning a sheet of paper on which an image has been formed, based on a plurality of inspection-related areas; the inspection-related areas being areas to be excluded or identified from an inspection target; a data storage unit that stores a plurality of first inspection-related areas set in a first image inspection job and stores the plurality of first inspection-related areas without deleting them even after the first image inspection job has been executed; a setting unit that sets the plurality of first inspection-related areas that have been set and saved for the executed first image inspection job as a plurality of second inspection-related areas for a second image inspection job that is a new image inspection job different from the first image inspection job, editing some of the second inspection-related areas of the second image inspection job based on a user operation so as to be different from a first inspection-related area corresponding to the some of the second inspection-related areas; Image inspection system.

Images