Inspection system, inspection method, and storage medium

Abstract

To provide an inspection system, an inspection method, and a program that can improve (reduce) the quality of a printed matter by inspecting the printed matter without reducing productivity for a part that a user wants to see at an ideal detection level.SOLUTION: According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing apparatus includes an image forming apparatus configured to form an image on a print product, an inspection apparatus configured to detect a defect of the print product, a display unit configured to display the defect detected by the inspection apparatus, a change unit configured to change a detection level of the defect in the display unit configured to display the defect, and a reflection unit configured to set a change of the detection level and reflect a setting result on the inspection apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection system, an inspection method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a configuration that compares an original image with a scanned image (an image obtained by scanning the output image) and outputs a defect detection report, with the aim of making it easy for users to check whether there are any problems with the quality of the output image. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] However, with print inspection technology using image forming devices, the user checks the results of defects detected during printing, and if there are no quality issues, printing cannot be resumed until the detection level and non-detection range are reset. Setting the detection level and non-detection range can be done after printing has been interrupted, but this not only reduces productivity but also requires the user to check how many sheets have been printed successfully. It is also difficult to inspect prints (detect defects, etc.) at the user's ideal detection level.

[0004] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide an inspection system, an inspection method, and a program that can inspect printed matter for the parts that the user wants to see at an ideal detection level without reducing productivity, thereby improving (reducing) the quality of the printed matter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention comprises an image forming device that forms an image on a printed material, an inspection device that detects defects in the printed material, a display means that displays the defects detected by the inspection device, a change means in the display means that displays the defects that changes the detection level of the defects, and a reflection means that sets a change in the detection level and reflects the setting result in the inspection device, and the reflection means reflects the setting result of the detection level in the inspection device without interrupting the image forming device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to inspect a printed matter for a portion that a user wants to see at an ideal detection level without reducing productivity, thereby improving (reducing) the quality of the printed matter. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an inspection system to which an inspection device according to this embodiment is connected. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a printer (inkjet printer) according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the MFP according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a DFE according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a printer according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the inspection device according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of inspection processing by the inspection device according to this embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of a process in which machine learning is used in the inspection device according to this embodiment to allow the user to select a method for recommending or automatically performing printing suspension and maintenance for a specific defect. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of a UI when the inspection level change process and the non-detection range setting process are performed in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10-1] FIG. 10-1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the flow of the detection level change process in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10-2] FIG. 10B is a diagram for explaining an example of the flow of the detection level change process in the inspection device according to this embodiment. [Figure 10-3] FIG. 10-3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the flow of the detection level change process in the inspection device according to this embodiment. [Figure 11-1] FIG. 11-1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the flow of the process of setting the non-detection range in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11-2] FIG. 11-2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the flow of the process of setting the non-detection range in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying a defect detection log of the inspection device according to this embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of an inspection system, an inspection method, and a program will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an inspection system to which an inspection device according to this embodiment is connected. In this embodiment, the inspection system has a printer 101, which is an example of an image forming device that forms an image on a printed material, and an operation unit 102.

[0010] Printer 101 receives printing information (print job) including a print image (RIP image) from the outside, or receives an instruction to execute a print job stored in printer 101, and according to the contents of the print job, obtains paper from paper feed unit 105 and transports it along the path shown by the dotted line in Fig. 1. Drums 113, 114, 115, and 116 each have toner images of K (black), C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) superimposed on belt 111, and the toner images are transferred to the paper being transported by roller 112 and fixed on the paper by roller 117. In the case of single-sided printing, the paper is directly ejected to inspection device 103, but in the case of double-sided printing, the paper is inverted by reversal path 118, and the toner image is transferred and fixed on the other side of the paper before being ejected.

[0011] The inspection device 103 is an example of an inspection device that detects defects in printed paper (an example of a printed material) output by the printer 101, and has an operation unit 133 that is an example of a display means that displays defects detected by the inspection device 103. The inspection device 103 may be configured without the operation unit 133, with the operation unit 102 of the printer itself serving as the operation unit, or may be configured as a PC (personal computer) connected via a LAN. The inspection device 103 reads both sides of the printed paper ejected from the printer 101 using readers 131 and 132 and ejects the paper. The stacker 104 stacks the printed paper ejected from the inspection device 103 in a tray 141. In this system, the RIP image is an 8-bit, 600-dpi image for each of CMYK, and the read image is an 8-bit, 200-dpi image for each of RGB.

[0012] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of an inkjet printer 3, which is an example of the printer 101, will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a printer (inkjet printer) according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the inkjet printer 3 (liquid ejection device) includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 302, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 303, an NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) 304, an external device connection I / F 308, a network I / F 309, and a bus line 310. The inkjet printer 3 also includes a paper transport unit 311, a sub-scanning driver 312, a main-scanning driver 313, a carriage 320, and an operation panel 330 (an example of the operation unit 102). The carriage 320 further includes a liquid ejection head 321 and a liquid ejection head driver 322.

[0013] Of these, CPU 301 controls the overall operation of inkjet printer 3. ROM 302 stores programs such as IPL used to drive CPU 301. RAM 303 is used as a work area for CPU 301. NVRAM 304 stores various data such as programs, and retains the data even when power to inkjet printer 3 is cut off. External device connection I / F 306 is connected to a PC (Personal Computer) via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like, and communicates control signals and data to be printed with the PC. Network I / F 309 is an interface for data communication using a communication network such as the Internet. Bus line 310 is an address bus, data bus, or the like for electrically connecting each component such as CPU 301.

[0014] The paper transport unit 311 is, for example, a roller and a motor that drives the roller, and transports printing paper in the sub-scanning direction along a transport path within the inkjet printer 3. The sub-scanning driver 312 controls the movement of the paper transport unit 311 in the sub-scanning direction. The main scanning driver 313 controls the movement of the carriage 320 in the main scanning direction.

[0015] The liquid ejection head 321 of the carriage 320 has a plurality of nozzles for ejecting liquid such as ink, and is mounted on the carriage 320 with its ejection surface (nozzle surface) facing the print paper. The liquid ejection head 321 ejects liquid onto the print paper, which is transported intermittently in the sub-scanning direction, while moving in the main scanning direction, thereby ejecting liquid at predetermined positions on the print paper and forming an image. The liquid ejection head driver 322 is a driver for controlling the driving of the liquid ejection head 321.

[0016] The operation panel 330 (an example of the operation unit 102) displays current setting values, a selection screen, etc., and is configured from a touch panel that receives input from the operator, an alarm lamp, etc.

[0017] The liquid ejection head driver 322 may be configured not to be mounted on the carriage 320 but to be connected to a bus line outside the carriage 320. Furthermore, the main scanning driver 313, the sub-scanning driver 312, and the liquid ejection head driver 322 may each be a function realized by an instruction from the CPU 301 according to a program.

[0018] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of an MFP, which is an example of the printer 101, will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the MFP according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, an MFP (Multi-function Peripheral / Product / Printer) 9 includes a controller 910, a short-range communication circuit 920, an engine control unit 930, an operation panel 940 (an example of the operation unit 102), and a network I / F 950.

[0019] Of these, the controller 910 has a CPU 901, which is the main part of the computer, a system memory (MEM-P) 902, a north bridge (NB) 903, a south bridge (SB) 904, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 906, a local memory (MEM-C) 907, which is a storage unit, an HDD controller 908, and an HD 909, which is also a storage unit, and is configured such that the NB 903 and the ASIC 906 are connected by an AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus 921.

[0020] Of these, the CPU 901 is a control unit that performs overall control of the MFP 9. The NB 903 is a bridge that connects the CPU 901 with the MEM-P 902, the SB 904, and the AGP bus 921, and includes a memory controller that controls reading and writing to and from the MEM-P 902, a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) master, and an AGP target.

[0021] The MEM-P 902 comprises a ROM 902a, which is memory for storing programs and data that realize the functions of the controller 910, and a RAM 902b, which is used for expanding the programs and data and as a drawing memory during memory printing. The programs stored in the RAM 902b may be provided by being recorded in an installable or executable format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, or DVD.

[0022] The SB 904 is a bridge connecting the NB 903 with PCI devices and peripheral devices. The ASIC 906 is an integrated circuit (IC) for image processing applications that has hardware elements for image processing and functions as a bridge connecting the AGP bus 921, PCI bus 922, HDD controller 908, and MEM-C 907. The ASIC 906 includes a PCI target and AGP master, an arbiter (ARB) that forms the core of the ASIC 906, a memory controller that controls the MEM-C 907, multiple direct memory access controllers (DMACs) that perform image data rotation using hardware logic, and a PCI unit that transfers data between the scanner unit 931 and printer unit 932 via the PCI bus 922. A USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface or an IEEE 1394 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) interface may also be connected to the ASIC 906.

[0023] The MEM-C907 is a local memory used as an image buffer for copying and a code buffer. The HD909 is a storage device for storing image data, font data used during printing, and forms. The HD909 controls the reading and writing of data from and to the HD909 under the control of the CPU901. The AGP bus 921 is a bus interface for a graphics accelerator card proposed to speed up graphics processing, and direct high-throughput access to the MEM-P902 enables the graphics accelerator card to operate at high speed.

[0024] Further, the short-distance communication circuit 920 includes a short-distance communication circuit 920a. The short-distance communication circuit 920 is a communication circuit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0025] Furthermore, the engine control unit 930 is made up of a scanner unit 931 and a printer unit 932. Furthermore, the operation panel 940 (an example of the operation unit 102) includes a panel display unit 940a such as a touch panel that displays current setting values, selection screens, etc. and accepts inputs from the operator, and an operation panel 940b that includes a numeric keypad that accepts setting values ​​for image formation conditions such as density setting conditions and a start key that accepts a copy start instruction. The controller 910 controls the entire MFP 9, and controls, for example, drawing, communication, input from the operation panel 940, etc. The scanner unit 931 or the printer unit 932 includes an image processing unit that performs error diffusion, gamma conversion, etc.

[0026] The MFP 9 can sequentially switch among the document box function, copy function, printer function, and facsimile function using an application switching key on the operation panel 940 (an example of the operation unit 102). When the document box function is selected, the MFP 9 enters document box mode, when the copy function is selected, the MFP 9 enters copy mode, when the printer function is selected, the MFP 9 enters printer mode, and when the facsimile mode is selected, the MFP 9 enters facsimile mode.

[0027] The network I / F 950 is an interface for performing data communication using a communication network. The short-range communication circuit 920 and the network I / F 950 are electrically connected to the ASIC 906 via a PCI bus 922.

[0028] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a DFE according to the present embodiment. In this embodiment, the DFE 150 includes a system control unit 501, a network I / F unit 502, a storage unit 503, a printer I / F unit 504, and a user I / F unit 505. In this embodiment, the DFE 150 is connected to a DFE panel 151 for UI display and a colorimeter.

[0029] The system control unit 501 includes a job information processing unit 551, a RIP processing unit 552, a storage unit 553, and a tone correction data generation unit 554. The network I / F unit 502 is an I / F for connection to a LAN (Local Area Network). The storage unit 503 of the DFE 150 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0030] The printer I / F unit 504 is an I / F for connection with the printer 101. The user I / F unit 505 is an I / F with the DFE panel 151. The DFE panel 151 of the DFE 150 is a device for inputting and outputting information to and from the user.

[0031] The system control unit 501 combines the job management information and the RIP image into a print job, and transmits the print job to the printer 101 via the printer I / F unit 504 .

[0032] 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a printer according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the printer 101 includes a system control unit 201, a user I / F unit 202, a network I / F unit 203, an external I / F unit 204, a storage unit 205, a mechanism control unit 206, a DFE I / F unit 207, an image processing control unit 208, a printing control unit 209, and the like. The system control unit 201 is a control unit that controls the entire printer 101 and includes an internal memory. The user I / F unit 202 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 201 and the operation unit 102.

[0033] The network I / F unit 203 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 201 to a network such as a LAN. The external I / F unit 204 is an I / F with other devices. The memory unit (e.g., HDD) 205 is a storage device such as a hard disk. The mechanism control unit 206 is a control unit for the operation of the printer 101, such as paper transport and transfer processes.

[0034] The DFE I / F unit 207 is an I / F for transferring RIP images to an externally connected image generation controller (such as the DFE 150). The image processing control unit 208 controls the processing of print images transferred to the mechanism control unit 206. The printing control unit 209 controls the formation of images on print media.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an inspection device according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the inspection device 103 includes a system control unit 331, a user I / F unit 332, a network I / F unit 333, an external I / F control unit 334, a storage unit 335, a mechanism control unit 336, a print image reading unit 337, a master image generation unit 338, a difference image generation unit 339, and the like. The system control unit 331 is a control unit that controls the entire inspection device 103. The user I / F unit 332 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 331 with the operation unit 133. The network I / F unit 333 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 331 to a network such as a LAN. The external I / F control unit 334 is an I / F with other devices. The HDD 305 is a storage device such as a hard disk. The mechanism control unit 336 is a control unit for operations of the inspection device, such as paper transport.

[0036] The print image reading unit 337 includes the reading devices 131, 132, etc., reads the print output (printed paper), and outputs an image (image to be inspected) obtained by reading the printed paper.

[0037] The system control unit 331 receives the printing management information via the external I / F control unit 334 and stores it in a memory unit 351 within the system control unit 331, and the job management data processing unit 352 extracts post-processing machine processing information from the job management information and transmits it via the external I / F control unit 334 to the stacker 104, which is the post-processing device downstream from the inspection device 103, and extracts the printing management information and transfers it to the master image generation unit 338, differential image generation unit 339, print image reading unit 337, and mechanism control unit 336. The printing management information transferred at this time is the job management information minus the post-processing machine information.

[0038] A master image generating unit 338 generates a master image from the RIP image. A difference image generating unit 339 generates a difference image between the master image and the image to be inspected.

[0039] The system control unit 331 includes a storage unit 351, a job management data processing unit 352, a defect discrimination processing unit 355, a change unit 356, a reflection unit 357, a selection unit 358, a setting unit 359, a non-detection range setting unit 360, a stop unit 361, and the like. The system control unit 331 stores a difference image between the master image and the image to be inspected in the storage unit 351 and notifies the defect discrimination processing unit 355. The defect discrimination processing unit 355 discriminates (detects) defects in the printed matter using a preset defect discrimination threshold (hereinafter referred to as the detection level) for the difference image. This allows the inspection device 103 to detect defects in the printing paper. The defect discrimination processing unit 355 also functions as an example of a calculation unit that performs defect detection processing for defects in the printing paper for each minimum level and calculates the minimum level at which defects can be detected.

[0040] The change unit 356 is an example of a change means that changes the defect detection level in the operation unit 133. The change unit 356 also functions as an example of a minimum level display means that displays the minimum detection level at which defects can be detected on the operation unit 133. The selection unit 358 is an example of a selection means that selects the minimum level of defects that the user wants to detect on the operation unit 133. The setting unit 359 is an example of a setting means that sets the minimum level selected by the selection unit 358 as a new detection level.

[0041] The change unit 356 may also change the detection level to one arbitrarily set by the user. In this case, the defect determination processing unit 355 also functions as an example of a redetection means that redetects defects based on the detection level arbitrarily set by the user. The change unit 356 also functions as an example of a detection result display means that displays, on the operation unit 133, the defect detection result by the defect determination processing unit 355 at the detection level arbitrarily set by the user. In this case, the setting unit 359 sets the detection level arbitrarily set by the user as the new detection level.

[0042] Furthermore, when the setting of the detection level or the non-detection range described below is reflected, the change unit 356 also functions as an example of an adding means that adds a new detection level or non-detection range to the operation unit 133. Furthermore, the change unit 356 displays whether the detection level or the non-detection range has been changed, and when the detection level or the non-detection range has been changed, displays the detection level or the non-detection range before and after the change.

[0043] The non-detection range setting unit 360 is an example of a non-detection range setting unit that sets a non-detection range for the inspection system. Here, the non-detection range is a range in which defects on the printed paper are not detected. The reflection unit 357 reflects the set non-detection range in the inspection device 103. For example, the non-detection range setting unit 360 may set the non-detection range from the top, bottom, left, and right edges of the printed paper to a range set by the user. Also, for example, the non-detection range setting unit 360 may set the non-detection range for an area arbitrarily set by the user. Also, for example, the non-detection range setting unit 360 may set the non-detection range only for pages set in advance. Or, for example, the non-detection range setting unit 360 may set the non-detection range for all pages.

[0044] The reflection unit 357 is an example of a reflection unit that sets a change in the detection level and reflects the setting result in the inspection device 103. The reflection unit 357 also reflects the detection level setting result in the inspection device 130 without interrupting the printer 101. This allows the user to inspect printed paper for the ideal inspection level and desired areas without sacrificing productivity, thereby improving the quality of the printed paper. For each detection level, the inspection device 103 (defect discrimination processing unit 355) performs differential processing and the like using a master image created from the print data and a scanned image obtained by reading the printed image. There are multiple parameters, such as a difference correction level determination threshold that sets the detection level (detection sensitivity) for this difference, and density and size thresholds used when detecting defects such as dents and streaks, and the parameters are stored in CSV format according to the set detection level. If the detection level is changed during the printing of a job (printed material), the reflection unit 357 reads the line corresponding to the changed detection level and notifies the inspection device 103 (defect discrimination processing unit 355) of it, thereby reflecting the change in the detection level. The parameters are used at the next timing (e.g., the next page), allowing the change in the detection level to be reflected without interrupting printing. Similarly, non-detection ranges are added and processed at a timing when the change in the non-detection range can be reflected. Furthermore, the detection level and non-detection range are reflected without stopping either the printer or the print job. A change screen is displayed during printing of a print job, and the parameters to be used and non-detection ranges are changed and added according to the respective settings at a timing when the change can be reflected (e.g., between pages in one copy of a print job, between copies of a print job, or between print jobs). In other words, if the detection level is changed or a non-detection range is set during the printing of a print material, the reflection unit 357 notifies the inspection device 103 of the changed detection level or the set non-detection range. Then, the inspection device 103 (defect discrimination processing unit 355) may detect defects using the changed detection level or the set non-detection range at the next timing of printing the printed matter (e.g., the next page, the next copy, the next job).

[0045] The reflection unit 357 may also immediately reflect the detection level and non-detection range setting results. Alternatively, the reflection unit 357 may reflect the detection level and non-detection range setting results from the next job. Alternatively, the reflection unit 357 may reflect the detection level and non-detection range setting results from the next job.

[0046] The stopping unit 361 is an example of a stopping means that temporarily stops the printer 101 when a defect is detected by the inspection device 103. The reflecting unit 357 sets the detection level and non-detection range while the printer 101 is stopped. The printer 20 resumes operation when the settings of the detection level and non-detection range are reflected.

[0047] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of inspection processing by the inspection device according to this embodiment. The inspection device 103 reads a printed matter (printed paper) and performs defect detection on the printed matter (step S101). If the inspection device 103 (defect discrimination processing unit 355) detects a defect (step S102: Yes), the user can select to change the detection level (step S103), set a non-detection range (step S104), or select an operation to be performed after the defect is detected (step S105).

[0048] If the detection level is to be changed (step S103: Yes), the inspection device 103 (change unit 356) performs a process of changing the detection level (detection level change process) (step S201). If the non-detection range is to be set (step S104: Yes), the inspection device 103 (non-detection range setting unit 360) performs a process of setting the non-detection range (non-detection range setting process) (step S301).

[0049] In the detection level change process (step S201) and the non-detection range setting process (step S301), the defect detection results after the detection level change process or the non-detection range setting process are displayed for the page (page of the printed material) on which a defect was detected. This makes it possible to perform defect detection on the data that was saved when the defect was detected, rather than printing it again.

[0050] When the detection level change process (step S201) or the non-detection range setting process (step S301) is performed, the inspection device 103 (change unit 356) notifies the printer 101 (printing press) or the operation unit 133 (UI screen) that the settings (inspection level change process, non-detection range setting process) are being performed. For example, if the printer 101 (printing press) has a lamp, the inspection device 103 (change unit 356) displays the color of the lamp to indicate that the settings are being performed. Alternatively, for example, the inspection device 103 (change unit 356) can display on the UI screen that the settings are being performed. In addition, the user can be notified that these settings will not be applied unless "Apply settings" is selected in the post-detection operation (step S105).

[0051] In the operation after detection (step S105), if "reflect settings" is selected, the inspection device 103 (reflecting unit 357) can reflect the settings at the selected timing, either immediately, from the next copy, or from the next job (step S106). Furthermore, "reflect settings" can notify the user that the settings will be reflected from the set timing (for example, page XX).

[0052] If immediate and "Reflect settings" are selected, the inspection device 103 (change unit 356) can display the first page on which the settings can be reflected as "Reflected from page XX." The user can also apply the detection level change process (step S201) and non-detection range setting process (step S301) to the results of the page before XX and check the results. In the operation after detection (step S105), the user can also select to turn off the inspection function of the inspection device 103 (step S107) or to interrupt printing (step S108).

[0053] When printing is interrupted (step S108), for example, machine learning can be performed to learn that the detection of a certain defect indicates an abnormality in a certain part of the machine, and interruption and maintenance can be recommended or automatically performed.

[0054] When the settings are reflected (step S106), if printing is not completed (step S109: No), the inspection device 103 (defect discrimination processing unit 355) continues to operate and detect defects (step S101). If the inspection function of the inspection device 103 is turned off (step S107) or printing is interrupted (step S108), the operation of the inspection device 103 ends.

[0055] 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process in which the inspection device according to the present embodiment uses machine learning to allow the user to select a method for suspending printing and recommending or automatically performing maintenance for a specific defect. When the inspection device 103 detects a defect in the printing paper, the printer 101 suspends printing and then displays a button (for example, an "OK" button) on the operation unit 102 to perform maintenance on a component that may have an abnormality. When the user presses the execute button, the printer 101 performs the maintenance.

[0056] Furthermore, by the user checking the check box, if a similar defect occurs in the future, the printer 101 switches to automatic execution mode, in which maintenance is performed automatically. In automatic execution mode, printing is interrupted and maintenance is performed automatically. At that time, the user can check how much of the maintenance has been completed. Also, by unchecking the check box, the printer 101 can switch to manual execution mode, in which maintenance is performed manually.

[0057] 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of a UI when an inspection level change process and a non-detection range setting process are performed in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. When the detection level is changed or the non-detection range is set in the inspection level change process or the non-detection range setting process, the change unit 356 displays "Changed" on the operation unit 133 (UI screen). Furthermore, when no change has been made, the change unit 356 displays "No change." When either the detection level or the non-detection range has been changed or set, the change unit 356 displays on the operation unit 133 (UI screen) a message indicating that the setting or change is in progress and that the change will not be reflected unless "Reflect setting" is selected.

[0058] 10-1 to 10-3 are diagrams illustrating an example of the flow of the detection level change process in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 10-1 is a diagram illustrating the process shown in step S201 in Fig. 7.

[0059] The user can select an automatic setting mode in which the detection level is automatically set, or a manual setting mode in which the user sets the detection level as desired (step S202). If the automatic setting mode is selected (step S202: automatic setting mode), pressing the "Determine detection level" button causes the change unit 356 to display the minimum level at which each defect can be detected (step S203). For example, as shown in FIG. 10-2, when the "Determine defect detection level" button displayed on the operation unit 133 is pressed, the defect determination processing unit 355 detects defects at each detection level and displays the minimum level at which each defect can be detected on the operation unit 133. The user selects the defect they want to detect.

[0060] Thereafter, when the user selects the defect that the user wants to detect (step S204), the change unit 356 changes the detection level to the ideal one. The user can also cancel the selection of the selected defect by resetting it (step S204). For example, by pressing the "Reset" button shown in FIG. 10-2, the selection of the minimum level can be canceled. By pressing the "Confirm" button shown in FIG. 10-2, the setting unit 359 completes the setting of the detection level, and the detection levels before and after the change are displayed on the completion screen on the operation unit 133. The change of the detection level can be canceled by pressing the "Cancel" button shown in FIG. 10-2.

[0061] On the other hand, if the user selects the manual setting mode (step S202: manual setting mode), the user can set each detection level (step S205). By pressing the "redetection display" button, the change unit 356 displays the defect detection results at the detection levels arbitrarily set by the user on the operation unit 133 (step S206). For example, as shown in FIG. 10-3, the user can arbitrarily set each detection level, and by pressing the "redetection display" button, the defect determination processing unit 355 performs defect detection again. The user confirms whether the defect detection results are as desired (step S207). If the defect detection results are not as desired (step S207: No), the user can reset the detection level settings (step S205). For example, as shown in FIG. 10-3, if the user can set the intended detection levels, the setting unit 359 completes the detection level setting by pressing the "confirm" button, and the detection levels before and after the change are displayed on the completion screen. You can cancel the change in detection level by pressing the "Cancel" button shown in Figure 10-3.

[0062] In each of the automatic setting mode and the manual setting mode, when the set detection level is to be reflected (step S208: Yes), the reflection unit 357 reflects the detection level, and the user can check the detection levels before and after the reflection (step S209).

[0063] 11-1 and 11-2 are diagrams for explaining an example of the flow of the non-detection range setting process in the inspection device according to the present embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 11-1 is a diagram for explaining the process shown in step S301 in Fig. 7.

[0064] The non-detection range setting unit 360 sets the non-detection range from the edge of the paper to be non-detectable (step S302). Furthermore, the user can set any non-detection range. The non-detection range setting unit 360 can also delete the set non-detection range (step S303). For example, as shown in FIG. 11-2, the user can set non-detection ranges at the top, bottom, left, and right edges using the operation unit 133. As shown in FIG. 11-2, the user can set a non-detection range for any area. Furthermore, the user can select any area as a non-detection range and delete the non-detection range. The non-detection range setting unit 360 can specify the set non-detection range on a page-by-page basis. Specifically, the non-detection range setting unit 360 can set the non-detection range for only the set page, all pages, or multiple specified pages. Furthermore, by pressing the "Confirm" button shown in FIG. 11-2, the setting of the non-detection range is completed, and a completion screen is displayed.

[0065] The reflecting unit 357 determines whether the non-detection range set in step S302 and the non-detection range arbitrarily set by the user in step S303 should be reflected from only this page, all pages, or a specified page (step S304). If the set non-detection range is to be reflected (step S305: Yes), the reflecting unit 357 reflects the set non-detection range, and the user can confirm on which page and how the non-detection range was set (step S306).

[0066] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying a defect detection log of the inspection device according to the present embodiment. When a change in the detection level or the setting of the non-detection range is reflected, the change unit 356 adds a new defect detection log to the screen displayed on the operation unit 133, as shown in FIG. 12, and the changed content is entered in the change field for the setting of the detection level, etc. In addition, the change unit 356 adds a "□" button to the field where the change in the detection level, etc. has occurred. Pressing this button displays the settings before and after the change. Each time a change in the setting of the detection level, etc. is reflected, the change unit 356 adds the new changed content of the detection level, etc., and assigns a number to each entry. When the defect detection function is turned off, the change unit 356 similarly adds a new detection log, and the OFF content is entered. This allows the user to confirm when the detection level or non-detection range was set.

[0067] In this way, the inspection device 103 according to this embodiment can inspect the printed paper for the parts that the user wants to see at the ideal detection level without reducing productivity, thereby improving the quality of the printed paper.

[0068] The program executed by the inspection device 103 of this embodiment is provided by being pre-installed in a ROM (Read Only Memory) or the like. The program executed by the inspection device 103 of this embodiment may be provided by being recorded in an installable or executable file format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0069] Furthermore, the program executed by the inspection device 103 of this embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the program executed by the inspection device 103 of this embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0070] The program executed by the inspection apparatus 103 of this embodiment has a modular configuration including the above-mentioned units (job management data processing unit 352, defect discrimination processing unit 355, change unit 356, reflection unit 357, selection unit 358, setting unit 359, non-detection range setting unit 360, and stop unit 361), and in actual hardware, an example of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) reads and executes the program from the above-mentioned ROM, thereby loading the above-mentioned units into the main storage device, and the job management data processing unit 352, defect discrimination processing unit 355, change unit 356, reflection unit 357, selection unit 358, setting unit 359, non-detection range setting unit 360, and stop unit 361 are generated on the main storage device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] 101 Printer 102,133 Operation section 103 Inspection equipment 331 System Control Unit 337 Print image reading unit 338 Master Image Generation Unit 339 Differential Image Generation Unit 351 Storage section 352 Job management data processing unit 355 Defect discrimination processing section 356 Changes 357 Reflection section 358 Selection Section 359 Settings 360 Non-detection range setting section 361 Stop part [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0072] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-202627

Claims

1. an image forming device that forms an image on a printed material; an inspection device that detects defects in the printed matter; a display means for displaying defects detected by the inspection device; a change means for changing a detection level of the defect in the display means for displaying the defect; a reflecting means for setting a change in the detection level and reflecting the setting result in the inspection device, The reflection unit reflects the detection level setting result in the inspection device without interrupting the image forming device.

2. a minimum level display means for displaying a minimum level of the detection level at which a defect can be detected in the detection level changing means; a selection means for allowing a user to arbitrarily select the minimum level of the defect that the user desires to detect in the display means; a setting means for setting the minimum level selected by the selection means as a new detection level; The inspection system according to claim 1 , comprising:

3. the minimum level display means performs a defect detection process for each minimum level of the defects; The inspection system according to claim 2 , further comprising a calculation unit that calculates the minimum level at which the defect can be detected.

4. The detection level change means allows a user to arbitrarily set the detection level, a re-detection means for re-detecting the defect based on the detection level arbitrarily set by a user; a detection result display means for displaying the result of the defect detection by the re-detection means at the detection level arbitrarily set by a user; a setting means for setting the detection level arbitrarily set by a user as a new detection level; The inspection system according to claim 2 , comprising:

5. The inspection system includes a non-detection range setting means for setting a non-detection range, The inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the reflecting unit reflects the set non-detection range in the inspection device.

6. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the non-detection range setting means sets the non-detection range to a range set by a user from the top, bottom, left, and right edges of the printed matter.

7. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the non-detection range setting means sets the non-detection range for an area arbitrarily set by a user.

8. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the non-detection range setting means sets the non-detection range only for a predetermined page.

9. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the non-detection range setting means sets the non-detection range for all pages.

10. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the reflecting means immediately reflects the results of setting the detection level and the non-detection range.

11. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the reflecting means reflects the setting results of the detection level and the non-detection range from a next unit.

12. The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the reflecting unit reflects the setting results of the detection level and the non-detection range from a next job.

13. a stop means for stopping the image forming apparatus once when the defect is detected by the inspection device; the reflecting unit sets the detection level and the non-detection range while the image forming apparatus is stopped, The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the image forming device resumes operation when the settings of the detection level and the non-detection range are reflected.

14. an adding means for adding a new detection level or non-detection range to the display means when the setting of the detection level or non-detection range is reflected; 6. The inspection system according to claim 5, wherein the adding means displays whether or not the detection level or the non-detection range has changed, and if the detection level or the non-detection range has changed, displays the detection level or the non-detection range before and after the change.

15. the reflecting means, when the detection level is changed or the non-detection range is set during printing of one of the printed materials, notifies the inspection device of the changed detection level or the set non-detection range; The inspection system according to claim 5 , wherein the inspection device detects the defect using the changed detection level or the set non-detection range at the next timing after printing of the printed matter.

16. An inspection method executed in an inspection system including an image forming device that forms an image on a printed matter and an inspection device that detects defects in the printed matter, a display step of displaying the defects detected by the inspection device on a display means; a change step of changing a detection level of the defect in the display means that displays the defect; a reflection step of setting a change in the detection level and reflecting the setting result in the inspection device, The reflecting step reflects the detection level setting result in the inspection device without interrupting the image forming device.

17. Computer, a display means for displaying defects detected by the inspection device from a printed matter on which an image is formed by the image forming device; a change means for changing a detection level of the defect in the display means for displaying the defect; a reflecting means for setting a change in the detection level and reflecting the setting result in the inspection device; The reflecting unit reflects the detection level setting result in the inspection device without interrupting the image forming device.

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