Image inspection apparatus, image forming system, image inspection method, and non-

Abstract

To perform processing after defect detection intended by a user when different kinds of defects are detected in the same page.SOLUTION: According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an image processing apparatus includes an inspection target image acquisition unit that acquires an inspection target image that is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed by an image forming apparatus, a defect determination unit that determines presence or absence of a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with the inspection target image and the inspection target image, a processing determination unit that determines, when the defect is detected by the defect determination unit, post-detection processing predetermined for the defect and to be executed when the defect occurs, according to a priority predetermined corresponding to a type of the defect to which the detected defect belongs, and a processing execution unit that executes the determined post-detection processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for checking for image defects in a printed matter involves comparing a scanned image of the printed matter with a comparison image. Examples of comparison images include an original image that is the source of the printed matter, or an image generated from the original image. If the comparison results in a determination that the generated printed matter has a defect, a process (i.e., recovery process) is executed according to a preset post-detection process for the defect.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which post-detection processing for each type of defect is set in advance, and when a defect is detected, the subsequent processing is executed without interruption. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the recovery process using the technology of Patent Document 1, if multiple types of defects are detected on the same page and different processes are set for each, it is difficult to know which process will be executed, making it difficult to execute the process intended by the user.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has as its object to realize processing as intended by the user even when multiple types of defects are detected on the same page. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention comprises an inspection image acquisition unit that acquires an inspection image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image has been formed by an image forming device; a defect determination unit that determines whether or not there is a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with the inspection image and the inspection image; a processing determination unit that, when a defect is detected by the defect determination unit, determines a post-detection process that is predetermined for the defect and is to be executed when the defect occurs, in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the type of defect to which the detected defect belongs; and a processing execution unit that executes the determined post-detection process. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, even when multiple types of defects are detected on the same page, it is possible to realize the processing intended by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image forming system including an image inspection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an image inspection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus, the image inspection apparatus, and the stacker according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional block configuration of the image inspection device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a priority table according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing another example of the priority table according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the priority table according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of the priority table according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for setting the priority table shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for setting the priority table shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for setting the priority table shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a setting screen when setting the priority table shown in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of functional blocks of a DFE according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of functional blocks of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of job management information according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the image inspection process executed in the image inspection device according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a print pause screen according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of an image inspection apparatus, an image forming system, an image inspection method, and a program will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the technology according to the present embodiments is not limited to electrophotography, but can also be applied to inkjet systems.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image forming system 1 including an image inspection device 103 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 according to this embodiment includes a DFE (Dedicated Feedthrough) and a (Digital Front End) 150, an image forming device 101, and an image inspection device 103.

[0011] This embodiment is characterized by a process of taking appropriate measures depending on the type of defect in the printed matter in the image forming system 1. Here, the image forming system 1 according to this embodiment is an image forming system including an image inspection device 103 that inspects the output result by comparing a scanned image (read image) obtained by reading the output result (original image) from the image formation output with a master image (sample image).

[0012] The DFE 150 generates image data to be printed out, i.e., bitmap data that is the output target image device, based on a print job received from a host machine. The DFE 150 outputs the generated bitmap data to the engine controller 2. The host machine can be an information processing device such as a general personal computer (PC) or a server, as appropriate.

[0013] The image forming apparatus 101 executes image formation output and forms an image on a recording medium. The image forming apparatus 101 includes an engine controller 2 and a print engine 3.

[0014] The engine controller 2 controls the print engine 3 based on the bitmap data (document image data) received from the DFE 150, and causes the print engine 3 to form and output an image. The engine controller 2 also transmits the bitmap data received from the DFE 150 to the image inspection device 103 as information that serves as the basis for a master image. Here, the master image is an image that the image inspection device 103 refers to when inspecting the results of the image formed and output by the print engine 3.

[0015] The print engine 3, under the control of the engine controller 2, forms and outputs an image on paper, which is a storage medium, based on the bitmap data, and inputs the image to the image inspection device 103. Note that, in addition to the above-mentioned paper, any sheet-like material such as film or plastic that can be used as the object of image formation and output can be used as the storage medium.

[0016] The image inspection device 103 generates master image data (also referred to as sample image data) that indicates a master image (also referred to as a sample image) to be compared with the scanned image, based on the bitmap data input from the engine controller 2. Then, the image inspection device 103 compares the scanned image input from the print engine 3 with the master image, thereby inspecting the output result (original image).

[0017] The image inspection device 103 is a device that can compare the scanned image input from the print engine 3 with a master image and detect defects on the scanned image.

[0018] Here, the hardware configuration of each device (DFE 150, engine controller 2, print engine 3, image inspection device 103) of the image forming system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image inspection device 103 according to the embodiment.

[0019] Although the hardware configuration of the image inspection device 103 will be mainly described with reference to FIG. 2, the hardware configuration of the DFE 150, engine controller 2, and print engine 3 is also similar.

[0020] At least two of the devices (DFE 150, engine controller 2, print engine 3, and image inspection device 103) of the image forming system 1 may be integrated. As an example, the engine controller 2 and print engine 3 may be integrated into a single device (image forming device 101). It can be said that the integrated device has a hardware configuration similar to the hardware configuration of the image inspection device 103 described below.

[0021] The image inspection device 103 has a hardware configuration similar to that of an information processing device such as a general PC or server. As an example, as shown in Fig. 2, the image inspection device 103 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 61, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 62, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 63, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) / SSD (Solid State Drive) 64, and an I / F 65. The CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, HDD / SSD 64, and I / F 65 are capable of communicating with each other via a bus 69 or the like.

[0022] The CPU 61 is a calculation means (processor). The CPU 61 controls the overall operation of the image inspection device 103. The ROM 62 is a read-only non-volatile storage medium. Programs such as firmware are stored in the ROM 62. The RAM 63 is a volatile storage medium that can read and write information at high speed. The RAM 63 is used as a working area when the CPU 61 processes (calculates) information. The HDD / SSD 64 is a non-volatile storage medium that can read and write information. The HDD / SSD 64 stores an OS (Operating System), various control programs, application programs, etc.

[0023] It should be noted that various computing means (processors) such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) can be used as appropriate, in addition to the CPU 61.

[0024] Note that an HDD and an SSD, or either an HDD or an SSD, may be used as the HDD / SSD 64. Furthermore, the HDD / SSD 64 is not limited to an HDD or an SSD, and storage devices such as flash memory and CD-ROM drives can also be used as appropriate.

[0025] The I / F 65 is an interface circuit that connects the bus 69 with various hardware, networks, etc. and controls this connection (communication). In the example shown in Fig. 2, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 71, an operation unit 72, and a dedicated device 73 are connected to the I / F 65.

[0026] The LCD 71 is a visual user interface (display device) that allows the user to check the status of the image inspection device 103. The operation unit 72 is a user interface (input device) such as a keyboard or mouse that allows the user to input information to the image inspection device 103. The LCD 71 and operation unit 72 may be integrated into a touch panel display. Here, the LCD 71 is an example of a display unit.

[0027] The dedicated device 73 is hardware for realizing dedicated functions in the engine controller 2, the print engine 3, and the image inspection device 103. In the case of the print engine 3, the dedicated device 73 is a plotter device that forms and outputs an image on paper, or a reading device that reads the image output on paper. In the case of the engine controller 2 and the image inspection device 103, the dedicated device 73 is a dedicated arithmetic device for performing high-speed image processing. Such an arithmetic device is configured, for example, as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0028] In such a hardware configuration, a software control unit is configured by reading programs stored in a storage medium such as the ROM 62, HDD / SSD 64, or optical disk into the RAM 63, and the CPU 61 performing calculations in accordance with the programs loaded into the RAM 63. The combination of the software control unit configured in this manner and hardware configures each functional block that realizes the respective functions of the engine controller 2, print engine 3, and image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment.

[0029] Each control program executed by each device (DFE 150, engine controller 2, print engine 3, image inspection device 103) of the image forming system 1 according to the embodiment is provided by being stored in an installable or executable file format on a computer-readable storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0030] Furthermore, each control program executed by each device (DFE 150, engine controller 2, print engine 3, image inspection device 103) of image forming system 1 according to the embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Furthermore, each control program executed by each device (DFE 150, engine controller 2, print engine 3, image inspection device 103) of image forming system 1 according to the embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0031] Furthermore, each control program executed by each device (DFE 150, engine controller 2, print engine 3, image inspection device 103) of image forming system 1 according to the embodiment may be provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like.

[0032] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus 101, an image inspection apparatus 103, and a stacker 104 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 3, an example of a configuration in which the image forming apparatus 101, the image inspection apparatus 103, and the stacker 104 are combined is shown.

[0033] However, the image inspection device 103 may be configured in combination with the image forming device 101 and the post-processing device 104 as shown in Figure 3, or may be configured as a standalone device separate from the image forming device 101, or may be combined with another device other than the image forming device 101.

[0034] An operation unit 102 displays various information on the image forming apparatus 101 and receives various operations from the user.

[0035] The image forming device 101 receives a print job including a RIP (Raster Image Processor) image from the outside, or receives an instruction to execute a print job stored in the image forming device 101, and executes image formation processing on paper using an image forming unit in accordance with the contents of the print job. Note that the image forming device 101 is not limited to paper, and can be configured to form an image on any recording medium as long as it is capable of image formation.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 101 includes a paper feed unit 105, and drums 113, 114, 115, and 116, a belt 111, a roller 112, a roller 117, and a reverse path 118 as examples of image forming means.

[0037] Specifically, the image forming apparatus 101 controls each mechanism, obtains paper from a paper feed unit 105 at the bottom of the image forming apparatus 101, and transports the paper along the path indicated by the dotted line in FIG.

[0038] Drums 113, 114, 115, and 116 respectively superimpose toner images of K (black), C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow) written on belt 111 by an optical writing device or the like based on an image to be printed.

[0039] Roller 112 transfers the toner image onto the paper being conveyed. Roller 117 fixes the toner image onto the paper. In the case of single-sided printing, the paper is discharged directly to image inspection device 103.

[0040] In the case of double-sided printing, the paper is reversed by a reversing path 118 , and the toner image is transferred and fixed on the other side of the paper before being discharged to the image inspection device 103 .

[0041] The image inspection device 103 is a device that inspects the printed matter printed out from the image forming device 101. Here, the printed matter is an example of a "recording medium." As shown in FIG. 3, the image inspection device 103 includes an operation unit 133 and reading units 131 and 132.

[0042] The operation unit 133 includes a display unit that displays various screens and accepts various operation inputs from the user via the display unit. In this embodiment, the operation unit 133 is provided in the image inspection device 103, but the operation unit 102 of the image forming device 101 may also serve as the operation unit 133 of the image inspection device 103. Furthermore, the operation unit 102 of the image forming device 101 or the operation unit 133 of the image inspection device 103 may be configured as an information processing device such as a PC connected to the image forming device via a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0043] The reading units 131 and 132 read the printed material using a line sensor or an image sensor, and output the scanned image.

[0044] The stacker 104 includes a tray 141. The stacker 104 stacks the printed materials discharged from the image inspection device 103 on the tray 141.

[0045] (Functional configuration of image inspection device) Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the image inspection device 103 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the image inspection device 103 includes a system control unit 401, a user I / F unit 402, a network I / F unit 403, an external I / F control unit 404, a storage unit 405, a mechanism control unit 406, an inspection image acquisition unit 407, a master image generation unit 408, and a difference image generation unit 409.

[0046] The user I / F unit 402 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 401 and the operation unit 133. The network I / F unit 403 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 401 to a network such as a LAN. The external I / F control unit 404 is an I / F with external devices. The memory unit 405 is a recording device such as an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive). The mechanism control unit 406 is a control unit for the operation of the inspection device, such as paper transport.

[0047] The inspection image acquisition unit 407 acquires a scanned image (read image) obtained by scanning the printed matter discharged from the image forming apparatus 101 with the reading units 131 and 132. Hereinafter, the scanned image will be referred to as the inspection image.

[0048] A master image generating unit 408 generates a master image from the RIP image as a comparison image for the inspection image. A difference image generating unit 409 generates a difference image between the master image and the inspection image.

[0049] The system control unit 401 is a control unit that controls the entire image inspection device 103. As shown in FIG. 4 , the system control unit 401 mainly includes a storage unit 451, a job management information processing unit 452, a defect determination unit 453, a processing determination unit 454, a priority setting unit 455, and a processing execution unit 457.

[0050] The storage unit 451 is a storage medium such as a RAM, HDD, or SSD. A consecutive occurrence flag is stored in the storage unit 451. The consecutive occurrence flag is a flag that indicates whether or not defects occur consecutively across multiple pages in the inspection image (i.e., the scanned image of the printed material). When the consecutive occurrence flag is on, it indicates that defects occur consecutively across multiple pages, and when the consecutive occurrence flag is off, it indicates that defects do not occur consecutively across multiple pages. The consecutive occurrence flag is set by the defect determination unit 453, which will be described later.

[0051] The system control unit 401 receives the job management information via the external I / F control unit 404 and stores it in a memory unit 451 within the system control unit. The job management information processing unit 452 extracts post-processor processing information from the job management information shown in Fig. 15 and transmits it via the external I / F control unit 404 from the image inspection device 103 to the stacker 104, which is a subsequent post-processing device, extracts printing management information, and transfers it to the master image generation unit 408, differential image generation unit 409, inspection image acquisition unit 407, and mechanism control unit 406. The printing management information transferred at this time is the job management information shown in Fig. 15 with the post-processor processing information removed. A detailed description of the job management information will be given later.

[0052] The system control unit 401 stores the inspection image and the difference image in the storage unit 451, and notifies the defect determination unit 453 and the processing determination unit 454 of the results.

[0053] The defect determination unit 453 determines whether or not there is a defect in the printed matter based on the master image to be compared with the inspection image and the inspection image. Specifically, the defect determination unit 453 compares the pixel value of the differential image generated by the differential image generation unit 409 with a threshold value for image inspection, and detects a defect in the inspection image if the pixel value is greater than the threshold. The defect in the inspection image corresponds to a defect in the result (printed matter) of the image formation output by the image inspection device 103.

[0054] Furthermore, for each defect image (image to be inspected) containing a detected defective pixel, the defect determination unit 453 acquires defect information including the positions of the defective pixels constituting the defect image on the image and the difference values ​​at the defective pixels. Furthermore, the defect determination unit 453 groups the defect images based on the positions of each defect on the image. In other words, the defect determination unit 453 recognizes defect images that are located far apart as different defect images.

[0055] In this way, defect determination unit 453 compares the distance between defective pixels with a threshold value for defect area search, and recognizes defective pixels as belonging to the same defective image if the distance between the defective pixels is equal to or less than the threshold value, and recognizes defective pixels as belonging to different defective images if the distance between the defective pixels exceeds the threshold value. In other words, the defect information includes information about each of the grouped defect images.

[0056] Furthermore, the defect determination unit 453 calculates a feature amount for each defect image and determines the type of defect based on the calculated feature amount. Furthermore, the defect determination unit 453 calculates a level indicating the degree of the defect for each defect image. The levels are, for example, levels 1 to 5, and the smaller the level number, the higher the degree of the defect. In this embodiment, the levels of the defect size and the defect density are used.

[0057] For example, assume that multiple defect types and level calculation formulas are predefined and stored in the HDD / SSD 64 or the like. If the difference between the vertical length and horizontal length of the defect is small, the defect determination unit 453 determines that the defect image is a point defect (dot). For example, if the area of ​​the defect is relatively large and the difference between the vertical length and horizontal length is large, the defect image is determined to be a linear defect (vertical or horizontal streak). Note that the vertical length (horizontal length) of the defect may be the length on the printed matter, or the number of parts that constitute the defect image may be used. In this way, the image inspection device 103 according to the embodiment obtains the characteristics of the detected defect image and determines which of the predefined defect types the defect is based on the obtained characteristics.

[0058] When the defect determination unit 453 detects a defect in the inspection image, the processing determination unit 454 determines a predetermined post-detection processing for the defect in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the type of defect to which the detected defect belongs. Here, the post-detection processing is processing that is executed when a defect occurs. In this embodiment, when the defect determination unit 453 detects a defect in the inspection image, the processing determination unit 454 refers to a priority table to determine a post-detection processing corresponding to the defect. The priority table is a table that determines the priority of the post-detection processing, and associates the type of defect, the post-detection processing, and the priority. The priority tables 4051 to 4054 are stored in the storage unit 405.

[0059] Specifically, when a defect is detected by the defect determination unit 453, the process determination unit 454 determines the post-detection process that has the highest priority in the priority tables 4051 to 4054 and corresponds to the type of defect to which the detected defect belongs.

[0060] Furthermore, if the priority tables 4051 to 4054 associate the level of defect size or density with post-detection processing for each defect type, the processing decision unit 454 decides the post-detection processing corresponding to the level of defect size or density of the detected defect. Here, the level indicates the degree of defect size or density, as described above.

[0061] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the priority table 4051 according to the embodiment. The example in Fig. 5 shows an example of post-detection processing settings for each type of defect and error.

[0062] 5 sets the size and darkness level of defects detected before printing, the number of pages when defects are detected consecutively on multiple pages, and post-detection processing to be performed when a registration error occurs during defect inspection. Here, a registration error is an error indicating a deviation that occurs when comparing the master image and the image to be inspected.

[0063] Furthermore, since defects may occur on consecutive pages, the priority table 4051 registers the number of consecutive pages on which defects are to be detected and the corresponding post-detection processing in association with each other.

[0064] In the example in Figure 5, the post-detection action for alignment errors is set to "Pause Printing." The post-detection action for defects with size levels 1 to 3 is set to "Purge and Reprint." The post-detection action for defects with darkness levels 1 to 3 is set to "Continue Printing." Additionally, the post-detection action for when the same defect is detected on 10 consecutive pages is set to "Stop Printing."

[0065] Here, the priority is a value that indicates the priority of the post-detection processing to be performed when multiple defects are detected. The smaller the priority value, the higher the priority. In the example of FIG. 5, when a defect of size level 2 and a defect of density level 2 are detected on the same page, size level 2 is set to priority 2 and density level 2 is set to priority 3, so the processing decision unit 454 gives priority to size level 2 and decides that the post-detection processing should be "purge and reprint."

[0066] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example (another example) of the priority table 4052 according to the embodiment. In the example of Fig. 6, similar to the priority table 4051 of Fig. 5, post-detection processing and priority are set for alignment errors, and error detection conditions and post-detection processing are set for consecutive pages. Fig. 6 shows an example in which different post-detection processing is set for each defect type and error, and for each level range for each defect type. That is, in the priority table 4052 of Fig. 6, multiple different level ranges are set for size and darkness, and post-detection processing is set for each level range.

[0067] Specifically, priority table 4052 further sets a post-detection action of "purge and reprint" for defects of size level 1, and a post-detection action of "continue printing" for defects of size levels 2 and 3. It also sets a post-detection action of "purge and reprint" for defects of density levels 1 to 3, and a post-detection action of "continue printing" for defects of density levels 4 and 5.

[0068] Here, if a defect of size level 2 and a defect of density level 2 are detected on the same page, since size level 2 is set to priority 4 and density level 2 is set to priority 3, the processing decision unit 454 will give priority to density level 2 and decide that the post-detection processing will be "purge and reprint."

[0069] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example (another example) of the priority table 4053 according to the embodiment. In the example of Fig. 7, similar to the priority table 4051 of Fig. 5, post-detection processing and priority are set for alignment errors, and error detection conditions and post-detection processing are set for pages where the errors occur consecutively. Furthermore, in the priority table 4053 shown in Fig. 7, post-detection processing and priority are set in association with each defect shape. In the example of Fig. 7, vertical streaks (vertical lines), horizontal streaks (horizontal lines), and dots (dots) are described as examples of defect shapes, but the shapes are not limited to these. The priority table 4053 has set therein the post-detection processes of "purge and reprint" for vertical streaks, "purge and reprint" for horizontal streaks, and "continue printing" for dots.

[0070] Furthermore, if vertical streaks and indentations are detected on the same page, the vertical streaks will have priority 2 and the indentations will have priority 4, so the processing decision unit 454 will prioritize the vertical streaks and decide that the post-detection processing will be "purge and reprint."

[0071] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing one example (another example) of the priority table 4054 according to the embodiment. In the priority table 4054 in Fig. 8, post-detection processing and priority are set for each defect type and error, and in addition, the defect types are classified by defect shape, such as vertical streaks, horizontal streaks, and dots, and post-detection processing and priority are set for each of a plurality of ranges of levels for each of these defect shapes.

[0072] Specifically, the priority table 4054 is composed of a main table shown in FIG. 8(a) and three sub-tables shown in FIG. 8(b) to (d). In the main table of FIG. 8(a), similar to the priority table 4051 of FIG. 5, a post-detection process and a priority level a are set for alignment errors, and post-detection process for error detection conditions are set for consecutive pages. The priority table 4054 also sets a post-detection process and a priority level a for each of vertical streaks, horizontal streaks, and dots, but the post-detection process is set to refer to a sub-table. That is, for vertical streak defects, sub-table 1 of FIG. 8(b) is set to refer, for horizontal streak defects, sub-table 2 of FIG. 8(c), and for dot defects, sub-table 3 of FIG. 8(d). That is, the post-detection process for the defect shape with the highest priority among the defect shapes detected on the same page is set in the sub-table corresponding to the defect shape. In each sub-table, different post-detection processing is set for different ranges of levels for the size and density of the defect, similar to the priority table 4052 in FIG.

[0073] Taking subtable 1 for vertical streaks as an example, post-detection actions and priority b are set according to the size and darkness levels. For defects with size levels 1 to 3, the post-detection action is set to "pause printing," and for defects with size levels 4 and 5, the post-detection action is set to "purge and reprint." Furthermore, for defects with darkness levels 1 to 3, the post-detection action is set to "purge and reprint," and for defects with darkness levels 4 and 5, the post-detection action is set to "continue printing." The same is true for subtables 2 and 3.

[0074] Then, if a vertical streak defect of size level 2, a density level 2 defect, and a horizontal streak defect of size level 1 are detected on the same page, first, in the comparison of priority a, vertical streaks have a higher priority than horizontal streaks, so the processing decision unit 454 prioritizes post-detection processing of the vertical streaks, and further, in the comparison of priority b, size level 2 has a higher priority than density level 2, so the processing decision unit 454 prioritizes size level 2 and decides that the post-detection processing will be "pause printing."

[0075] When determining post-detection processing, processing determination unit 453 may refer to any of priority tables 4051 to 4054, and the priority table to be referenced is determined in advance. Note that multiple priority tables 4051 to 4054 may be configured to be stored in storage unit 451.

[0076] Returning to FIG. 4, the process execution unit 457 executes the post-detection process determined by the process determination unit 454.

[0077] In response to a user instruction, the priority setting unit 455 associates a post-detection process with a priority for each type of defect and registers the associated post-detection process in the priority tables 4051 to 4054. Specifically, the priority setting unit 455 displays a setting screen on the display unit of the operation unit 133, which prompts the user to input a post-detection process with a priority for each type of defect, and registers the defect type, post-detection operation unit process, and priority input by the user from the setting screen in the priority tables 4051 to 4054 in association with each other.

[0078] Here, the setting screen will be described. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a setting screen according to an embodiment. The setting screen in FIG. 9 is a screen for setting items in the priority table 4051 shown in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 9, the setting screen displays list boxes in which the user can specify the defect size level, defect density level, post-detection processing, and priority for each error / defect type. On this setting screen, the user selects the desired item from the list boxes for the defect size level, defect density level, post-detection processing, and priority for each error / defect type. The specified item is then associated with and registered in the priority table 4051 by the priority setting unit 455. For example, post-detection processing and priority can be set for each error / defect type. For post-detection processing, the following options are available: "Continue printing," "Purge and reprint," "Insert slip sheet and reprint," "Pause printing," and "Abort printing." Defect levels can also be set, with both the size level and density level ranging from 1 to 5, with level 1 being the highest defect level. Priorities can be set for each defect type and level, with priority being assigned to defect types in ascending order of priority.

[0079] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a setting screen according to the embodiment. The setting screen in Fig. 10 is a screen for setting items in the priority table 4052 shown in Fig. 6. As shown in Fig. 10, the setting screen not only sets the defect size level, defect density level, post-detection processing, and priority for each error / defect type as shown in Fig. 9, but also allows the user to specify desired items for post-detection processing and priority from items displayed in a list box for each defect size or density level of the defect type. The priority setting unit 455 registers the items specified on the setting screen in association with the priority table 4052.

[0080] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing another example of a setting screen according to the embodiment. The setting screen in Fig. 11 is a screen for setting items in the priority table 4053 shown in Fig. 7. Unlike the setting screen shown in Fig. 9, which specifies the defect size level, defect density level, post-detection processing, and priority for each error / defect type, the setting screen specifies the items of post-detection processing and priority for each defect shape (i.e., line, vertical streak, horizontal streak, and dot) within the defect type. The priority setting unit 455 registers the specified items in the priority table 4053 in association with each other.

[0081] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the setting screen according to the embodiment. The setting screen in Fig. 12 is a screen for setting items in the priority table 4054 shown in Fig. 8. As in Fig. 11, the setting screen allows a priority (priority a) to be specified for each defect shape in each defect type. Furthermore, as in Fig. 10, for each defect shape, a post-detection process and a priority (priority b) can be specified for each defect size or density detection level in each defect type. The priority setting unit 455 registers the specified items in the priority table 4054 in association with each other.

[0082] (Explanation of DFE (Digital Front End)) Next, the DFE 150 will be described in detail. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the functional block configuration of the DFE 150 corresponding to the image generation controller. The DFE 150 has a system control unit 201, a network I / F unit 202, a storage unit 203, a printer I / F unit 204, and a user I / F unit 205.

[0083] The network I / F unit 202 is an interface for connecting to a LAN.

[0084] The storage unit 203 is a storage medium such as an HDD or SSD.

[0085] The printer I / F unit 204 is an interface for connecting to the image forming apparatus 101 .

[0086] The user I / F unit 205 is an interface for connecting to the DFE panel 151 .

[0087] The DFE panel 151 is a device for displaying a UI (User Interface) for inputting and outputting information to and from the user.

[0088] As shown in Fig. 13, the system control unit 201 has a job management information processing unit 251, a RIP processing unit 252, a storage unit 253, and a gradation correction data generation unit 254. The job management information processing unit 251 processes a print job and converts it into job management information and RIP image data. The storage unit 253 temporarily stores the data. The gradation correction data generation unit 254 generates gradation correction data.

[0089] The system control unit 201 transmits the job management information and the RIP image data as print job data to the image forming apparatus 101 via the printer I / F unit 204 .

[0090] (Configuration of the Image Forming Apparatus 101) Next, the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described in detail. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the functional block configuration of the image forming apparatus 101. As shown in Fig. 14, the image forming apparatus 101 has a system control unit 301, a user I / F unit 302, a network I / F unit 303, an external I / F control unit 304, a storage unit 305, a mechanism control unit 306, a DFE I / F unit 307, an image processing control unit 308, and a printing control unit 309.

[0091] The user I / F unit 302 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 301 and the operation unit 102. It is a network I / F. The network I / F unit 303 is an I / F for connecting the system control unit 301 to a network such as a LAN. The external I / F control unit 304 is an I / F for connecting to other devices. The memory unit 305 is a storage device such as a hard disk. The mechanism control unit 306 is a control unit for the operations of the image forming apparatus 101, such as paper transport and the transfer process in the image forming apparatus 101. The DFE I / F unit 307 is an I / F for RIP image transfer with an externally connected image generation controller (DFE, etc.). The image processing control unit 308 controls the processing of print images to be transferred to the mechanism control unit 306. The printing control unit 309 controls the formation of images on printed matter.

[0092] The system control unit 301 controls the entire image forming apparatus 101. The system control unit 301 includes a memory 351, a job processing unit 352, a RIP processing unit 353, and a job management information processing unit 354, as shown in FIG.

[0093] The job processing unit 352 processes a print job and generates job management information and RIP image data.

[0094] The RIP processor 353 converts the print data of the print job into RIP image data.

[0095] The job management information processing unit 354 generates job management information, which indicates the processing content of a print job, and the print processing is performed based on the job management information.

[0096] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of job management information. As shown in Fig. 15, the job information includes parameters such as "job creation source," "creation time," "page ID," "print side," "paper ID," "copy ID," "job ID," "paper type," "paper size," "job type," and "post-processing machine processing information."

[0097] "Job creation source" is information indicating the job output source. It includes information on whether it is an output job (DFE job) of the DFE 150 or internal data (internal job) of the image forming device 101. "Creation time" is information indicating the time when the creation source created the job information.

[0098] "Page ID" is the identification number for the print page. It is incremented by 1 for each page processed after the power is turned on. The number is set when printing is executed.

[0099] The "printed side" is used to identify whether the printed image is a single-sided print, a print on the front side of a double-sided print (double-sided front), or a print on the back side (double-sided back).

[0100] "Paper ID" is the identification information for the paper. In the case of double-sided printing, the page IDs printed on the same paper will have the same paper ID. +1 is added for each sheet of paper processed from the time the power is turned on. The number is set when printing is executed.

[0101] "Set ID" is identification information for each set. It is incremented by 1 for each set that is printed after the power is turned on. The value is set when printing is executed.

[0102] "Job ID" is identification information for each set. It is incremented by 1 for each completed job output from when the power is turned on. The number is set when printing is executed.

[0103] "Paper type" is information about the type of paper. "Paper size" is information about the size of the paper.

[0104] "Job type" is information such as target for defect detection, non-target, and slip sheet for defect detection identification. The image inspection device 103 cannot inspect defects on some items, such as colored paper. Target for defect detection indicates that the item is a target for defect detection, and non-target indicates that the item is not a target for defect detection.

[0105] The "initial value" indicates the value received by the system control unit 301. The "post-processing device processing information" is setting information for a post-processing device such as the stacker 104.

[0106] (Image inspection processing) Next, an image inspection process performed by the image inspection device 103 of the image forming system 1 configured as above will be described. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of image inspection processing executed in the image inspection device 103 according to the embodiment. First, the inspection image acquisition unit 407 acquires an image read from a printed material by the reading units 131 and 132 (S601). Here, the read image becomes the inspection target image.

[0107] Next, in the image inspection device 103, the differential image generation unit 409 generates a differential image between the master image and the image to be inspected, and the defect determination unit 453 inspects the print, i.e., the image to be inspected, for defects (S602). The defect determination unit 453 then determines whether or not there is a defect (S603). If there is no defect in the image to be inspected (S603: No), the process execution unit 457 turns off the consecutive occurrence flag stored in the storage unit 451 (S620), and the process proceeds to S619.

[0108] In S603, if it is determined that the inspection image has a defect (S603: Yes), Next, the defect determination unit 453 checks whether the consecutive occurrence of defects has occurred. That is, the defect determination unit 453 determines whether the consecutive occurrence flag in the storage unit 451 is OFF (S604). If the consecutive occurrence flag is OFF (S604: Yes), the defect determination unit 453 sets the consecutive occurrence flag to ON and sets the occurrence count, which is a counter, to 1 (S605). On the other hand, if the consecutive occurrence flag is ON in S604 (S604: No), the defect determination unit 453 adds 1 to the number of occurrences (S606). Then, the defect determination unit 453 determines whether the number of occurrences is less than the number of pages set in the consecutive occurrence page count in FIGS. 8 to 11 (S607). If the number of occurrences is not less than the set number of pages, that is, if the number of occurrences has reached the set number of pages (S607; No), the processing determination unit 454 determines the post-detection processing corresponding to the consecutive occurrence page count in the priority table (S608).

[0109] On the other hand, in S607, if the number of occurrences is less than the number of pages set as the number of consecutive occurrence pages (S607: Yes), the process proceeds to S609.

[0110] Next, in S609, the defect determination unit 453 determines whether the detected defects or errors are of multiple types (S609). If the detected defects or errors are of one type (S609: No), the process determination unit 454 determines the post-detection process corresponding to the detected defects or errors in the priority tables 4051 to 4054 (S611). Then, the process proceeds to S612.

[0111] On the other hand, if multiple types of defects or errors are detected in S609 (S609: Yes), the defect determination unit 453 refers to the priority tables 4051 to 4054 shown in Figures 5 to 8 (S610). Then, the process determination unit 454 determines, as the subsequent process, the post-detection process that is set with the highest priority among the post-detection processes corresponding to the multiple types of detected defects in the priority tables 4051 to 4054 (S621). The process determining unit 454 notifies the process executing unit 453 of the content of the post-detection process determined in S611 and S621.

[0112] Next, the process execution unit 457 determines whether the post-detection process determined by the process determination unit 454 is "continue printing" (S612). If the determined post-detection process is "continue printing" (S612: Yes), printing continues, and the process proceeds to S619.

[0113] On the other hand, if the determined post-detection process is not "continue printing" in S612 (S612: No), the process execution unit 457 determines whether the determined post-detection process is "reprint" (S613). If the determined post-detection process is "reprint" (S613: Yes), the process execution unit 457 executes the reprint process (S614), and the process proceeds to S619.

[0114] On the other hand, if the determined post-detection process is not "reprint" in S613 (S613: No), the process execution unit 457 determines whether the determined post-detection process is "pause" (S615). If the determined post-detection process is not "pause" (S615: No), the process execution unit 457 performs interruption processing (S618), and the process ends.

[0115] On the other hand, if the post-detection processing determined in S615 is "pause" (S615: Yes), the processing execution unit 457 displays a print pause screen on the display unit of the operation unit 133 and waits for instructions to be input by the user.

[0116] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a print pause screen according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, the print pause screen displays the page number on which a defect was detected. The print pause screen also displays buttons that allow the user to select an action. As shown in FIG. 17, "Continue printing" and "Cancel printing" are displayed as actions that the user can select. At the time of the pause, the user checks the details of the defect on the operation unit 133 and selects whether to continue printing or cancel printing. After the user selects one of the buttons, the selected action is executed by pressing (touch input) the "OK" button.

[0117] When the process execution unit 457 receives a user instruction input from the print pause screen (S616), it determines whether the input process is "continue printing" (S617). If the input process is not "continue printing" (S617: No), the process execution unit 457 performs interruption processing (S618) and the process ends. If the input process is "continue printing" (S617: Yes), the process proceeds to S619.

[0118] The image inspection device 103 performs the above-described defect inspection, check for consecutive defect occurrences, and check for defect detection results for each page, then the processing determination unit 454 determines post-detection processing, and the processing execution unit 457 executes the determined post-detection processing. The processing execution unit 457 then determines whether printing of all pages is complete (S619). If printing of all pages is not complete (S619; No), the process returns to S601, and the above-described defect inspection, check for consecutive defect occurrences, and check for defect detection results are repeatedly executed. On the other hand, if printing of all pages is complete (S619: Yes), the job is considered complete and processing ends.

[0119] (Overview) In conventional technology, when multiple different types of defects are detected on the same page, there is a possibility that the post-detection processing intended by the user will not be executed. For example, in Patent Document 1, it is possible to set the post-detection processing for each type of defect in advance before inspecting the output recording medium. However, when different types of defects are detected on the same page as described above, the user cannot predict which type of defect will be subjected to the post-detection processing, and there is a possibility that the user will discover after printing that the post-detection processing intended by the user was not executed.

[0120] In contrast, the image inspection device 103 of this embodiment is equipped with an inspection image acquisition unit 407 that acquires an inspection image, which is an image obtained by reading a printed matter printed by the image forming device 101, a defect determination unit 453 that determines whether or not there is a defect in the printed matter based on a master image to which the inspection image is compared and the inspection image, a processing determination unit 454 that, when a defect is detected, determines a predetermined post-detection processing for the defect as the next processing to be executed in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the type of defect to which the detected defect belongs, and a processing execution unit 457 that executes the determined post-detection processing.

[0121] Specifically, the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment determines the presence or absence of defects in a printed material based on the comparison results between a master image and an image to be inspected. Furthermore, the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment pre-configures a priority table that associates defects with post-detection processing to be performed when a defect is detected and the priority of the defect. As a result, according to this embodiment, when multiple different defects are detected on the same page, the post-detection processing with the highest priority can be determined based on the priorities set in the priority table. Therefore, according to the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, even when multiple different defects are detected on the same page as described above, the user can perform the post-detection processing intended by the user by pre-setting which post-detection processing for each defect should be prioritized. Furthermore, this embodiment can be applied not only to the inspection of two-dimensional images such as printed materials, but also to the inspection of three-dimensional objects generated by 3D printers, etc.

[0122] Furthermore, in the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, when the defect determination unit 453 detects multiple different defects on the same page, the process determination unit 454 determines the post-detection process with the highest priority corresponding to each of the defect types to which the detected multiple defects belong in the priority tables 4051 to 4054. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when multiple different types of defects are detected, the user can set which post-detection process to prioritize for which defect type.

[0123] Furthermore, in the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, the priority tables 4051 to 4054 associate the size or density level of the defect with post-detection processing for each type of defect, and the processing determination unit 454 determines the post-detection processing corresponding to the size level or density level of the detected defect. Therefore, according to this embodiment, different post-detection processing can be set for each size or density level of the detected defect, and post-detection processing can be performed in line with the user's intentions.

[0124] Furthermore, in the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, the priority tables 4051 to 4054 associate the type of defect, the priority, and the post-detection processing to be performed when defects are detected on multiple consecutive pages. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when defects are continuously detected on multiple consecutive pages, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of wasted paper.

[0125] Furthermore, in the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, the defect type is a priority table including a registration error when comparing a master image with an image to be inspected, and the processing to be performed when the registration error occurs is associated with the registration error as a post-detection processing. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when defect detection is not being performed correctly, detection can be stopped.

[0126] Furthermore, in the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, the priority tables 4051 to 4054 associate post-detection processing with each defect shape in the defect type. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the user can set post-defect detection processing for each defect shape.

[0127] Furthermore, the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment is provided with a priority setting unit 455 that associates post-detection processing with a priority for each type of defect and registers the associated processing in priority tables 4051 to 4054. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the user can set post-defect detection processing on the operation unit 133 for each defect size and density detection level and each defect shape, and save the set contents in the priority tables 4051 to 4054 in the storage unit 405. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the priority and post-detection processing can be changed, enabling flexible processing.

[0128] Furthermore, in the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment, the priority setting unit 455 displays a setting screen on the display unit that prompts the user to input post-detection processing and priority for each type of defect in association with each other, and registers the defect type, post-detection processing, and priority input on the setting screen in association with each other in the priority tables 4051 to 4054. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the setting contents of the set priority tables 4051 to 4054 can be displayed on the display unit of the operation unit 133, and the settings can be referred to or changed.

[0129] In the image forming system according to this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 prints on a printed material, and the image inspection apparatus 103 includes an inspection image acquisition unit 407 that acquires an inspection image, which is an image obtained by scanning the printed material printed by the image forming apparatus 101, a defect determination unit 453 that determines whether or not there is a defect in the printed material based on the inspection image and a master image to which the inspection image is compared, a processing determination unit 454 that, when a defect is detected, determines a predetermined post-detection processing to be executed next for the defect in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the type of defect to which the detected defect belongs, and a processing execution unit 457 that executes the determined post-detection processing. Therefore, according to the image inspection apparatus 103 according to this embodiment, even when multiple different defects are detected on the same page as described above, the user can perform the post-detection processing as intended by the user by setting in advance which post-detection processing for which defect is to be prioritized.

[0130] The image inspection method and program executed by the image inspection device 103 according to this embodiment includes an inspection image acquisition step of acquiring an inspection image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image has been formed by an image forming device; and a defect determination step of determining whether or not there is a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with the inspection image and the inspection image. a processing determination step of determining, when the defect is detected by the defect determination step, a post-detection processing step that is predetermined for the defect and that is to be executed when the defect occurs, in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the defect type to which the detected defect belongs; and a processing execution step of executing the determined post-detection processing, and a program for causing a computer to execute these steps. Therefore, according to this embodiment, even if multiple different defects are detected on the same page, the user can perform the post-detection processing as intended by setting in advance which defect's post-detection processing should be given priority.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the defect type, post-detection processing, and priority are preset in the priority tables 4051 to 4054, but this is not limiting. For example, the post-detection processing may be determined based on the defect type and priority during processing by the processing determination unit 454.

[0132] In the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus of the present invention has been described as being applied to a multifunction peripheral having at least two of the following functions: a copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function. However, the present invention can be applied to any image forming apparatus, such as a copier, a printer, a scanner, or a facsimile machine. Furthermore, each function of the embodiment may be provided by being implemented in an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) or by having a computer execute a program. In the latter case, the program may be pre-installed in a ROM, a hard disk drive, or the like and provided as a functional unit. In this case, the CPU reads the program and executes it step by step to realize the various functional units. The program may also be stored on a computer-readable storage medium and provided as a computer program product. For example, the program may be provided as an installable or executable file stored on a storage medium such as a flexible disk, CD-R, DVD, Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), or semiconductor memory. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Image forming system 2 Engine Controller 3 Print Engine 61 CPU 62 ROM 63 RAM 64 HDD / SSD 65 I / F 69 Bus 71 LCD 72 Control section 73 Dedicated Devices 101 Image forming device 102 Operation section 103 Image inspection equipment 131,132 Reading unit 150 DFE 306 Mechanism control unit 308 Image processing control unit 405 Storage section 4051, 4052, 4053, 4054 Priority Table 407 Inspection image acquisition unit 408 Master image generation unit 409 Differential Image Generation Unit 453 Defect Judgment Unit 454 Processing Decision Unit 455 Priority setting section 457 Processing Execution Unit [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0134] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-137718

Claims

1. an inspection image acquisition unit that acquires an inspection image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image has been formed by an image forming apparatus; a defect determination unit that determines whether or not there is a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with an inspection image and the inspection image; a processing decision unit that, when the defect is detected by the defect determination unit, decides a post-detection processing to be performed upon occurrence of the defect, the post-detection processing being predetermined for the defect in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the defect type to which the detected defect belongs; a processing execution unit that executes the determined post-detection processing; An image inspection device comprising:

2. a storage unit that stores a priority table that associates the defect type, the post-detection processing, and the priority, when the defect is detected by the defect determination unit, the processing determination unit determines the post-detection processing corresponding to the defect in accordance with the priority in the priority table corresponding to the defect type to which the detected defect belongs. The image inspection device according to claim 1 .

3. when the defect determination unit detects a plurality of different defects on the same page, the processing determination unit determines the post-detection processing having the highest priority in the priority table corresponding to each of the defect types to which the detected plurality of defects belong. The image inspection device according to claim 2 .

4. the priority table associates, for each type of defect, a level indicating a degree of the size or density of the defect with the post-detection processing; the processing determination unit determines the post-detection processing corresponding to the level of the size or the level of the darkness of the detected defect. The image inspection device according to claim 2 .

5. the priority table associates the type of defect, the priority, and the post-detection processing when the defect is detected on multiple pages consecutively; The image inspection device according to claim 2 .

6. The defect type includes a registration error, which indicates a deviation that occurs when comparing the master image and the inspection image; In the priority table, the registration error is associated with a process to be performed when the registration error occurs as the post-detection process. The image inspection device according to claim 2 .

7. the priority table associates the post-detection processing with each shape of the defect in the defect type; The image inspection device according to claim 2 .

8. a priority setting unit that associates the post-detection processing with the priority for each type of defect and registers the associated post-detection processing with the priority in the priority table; The image inspection device according to claim 2 , further comprising:

9. the priority setting unit displays a setting screen on a display unit, which allows a user to input the post-detection processing and the priority in association with each other for each type of defect, and registers the defect type, the post-detection processing, and the priority input on the setting screen in the priority table in association with each other. The image inspection device according to claim 8.

10. An image forming system including an image forming apparatus and an image inspection apparatus, The image forming apparatus forms an image on a recording medium, The image inspection device is an inspection image acquisition unit that acquires an inspection image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image has been formed by an image forming apparatus; a defect determination unit that determines whether or not there is a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with an inspection image and the inspection image; a processing decision unit that, when the defect is detected by the defect determination unit, decides a post-detection processing to be performed upon occurrence of the defect, the post-detection processing being predetermined for the defect in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the defect type to which the detected defect belongs; a processing execution unit that executes the determined post-detection processing; An image forming system comprising:

11. An image inspection method performed by an image inspection device, comprising: an inspection image acquisition step of acquiring an inspection image which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image has been formed by an image forming apparatus; a defect determination step of determining whether or not there is a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with an inspection image and the inspection image; a processing determination step of determining, when the defect is detected by the defect determination step, a post-detection processing step that is predetermined for the defect and that is to be executed when the defect occurs, in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the defect type to which the detected defect belongs; a processing execution step of executing the determined post-detection processing; An imaging inspection method comprising:

12. A program to be executed by a computer of an image inspection device, an inspection image acquisition step of acquiring an inspection image which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image has been formed by an image forming apparatus; a defect determination step of determining whether or not there is a defect in the recording medium based on a master image to be compared with an inspection image and the inspection image; a processing determination step of determining, when the defect is detected by the defect determination step, a post-detection processing step that is predetermined for the defect and that is to be executed when the defect occurs, in accordance with a predetermined priority corresponding to the defect type to which the detected defect belongs; a processing execution step of executing the determined post-detection processing; A program for causing the computer to execute the above.

Images