Image forming system and inspection apparatus

Abstract

To perform display control of a setting screen so that inspection setting by a user becomes easier.SOLUTION: In the image forming system 100, the inspection apparatus 50 inspects a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus 30. A control device 40 displays, on a display 21, an inspection setting screen SC2 including a first display area for displaying a reference image to be a reference of image inspection by an inspection device 50 and a second display area for displaying an operation object for receiving inspection setting for the image inspection. At this time, the controller 40 determines the arrangement of the first display region and the second display region in the inspection setting screen SC2 in accordance with the size of the reference image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system including an inspection device that inspects the quality of an image formed on a sheet, and to the inspection device. [Background technology]

[0002] In an image forming system, an inspection device may inspect the quality of an image formed on a sheet by an image forming device. The inspection device performs inspection based on a read image (inspection image) obtained by reading the image formed on the sheet. The image forming system, for example, accepts inspection settings by displaying an inspection setting screen on a display device, and when inspection according to the inspection settings is completed, presents the inspection results by the inspection device to a user by displaying the inspection results on the display device.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a layout of an inspection setting screen in which an image to be printed (a reference image that serves as a reference for the inspection) is arranged on the right side of the screen, and a group of buttons and menus for setting an inspection area are arranged on the left side of the screen. This type of inspection setting screen allows the user to easily set the inspection area to be inspected based on the display of the image to be printed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-105790 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In recent years, in addition to standard-sized sheets such as A4 and B5, various types of sheets, such as long sheets (long paper) that are long in the conveying direction and free-size sheets, have become the targets of inspection by inspection devices. For example, when a long-sized sheet is the target of inspection, if the display orientation of the reference image displayed on the inspection setting screen is not appropriately determined, the reference image may be displayed small on the screen. This can make it difficult for the user to appropriately set the inspection contents for the reference image on the inspection setting screen.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique for controlling the display of a setting screen so that the user can more easily set up an inspection. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, an image forming system is provided, comprising: an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet; an inspection device that inspects a printed material based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed material including the sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming device; and a display control means that displays a setting screen on a display device, the setting screen including a first display area that displays a reference image that serves as a basis for image inspection by the inspection device, and a second display area that displays an operation object for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection, wherein the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the setting screen depending on the size of the reference image.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming system comprising: an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet; an inspection device that inspects a printed material based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed material including the sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming device; and a display control means that displays a confirmation screen for the inspection results on a display device, the confirmation screen including a first display area that displays the inspection image if an abnormal image is found in the inspection results as a result of the image inspection by the inspection device, and a second display area that displays an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image, wherein the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the confirmation screen depending on the size of the inspection image.

[0009] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an inspection device for inspecting an image formed on a sheet, comprising: a display means; and a display control means for causing the display means to display a setting screen, wherein the setting screen displays a screen including a first display area that displays a reference image that serves as a basis for image inspection, and a second display area that displays an operation object for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection, wherein when a sheet having a first length in the transport direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a first state, and when a sheet having a second length in the transport direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a second state, wherein the first length is longer than the second length, and in the first state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side horizontally, and in the second state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side vertically.

[0010] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an inspection device for inspecting an image formed on a sheet, comprising: an inspection means for inspecting the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading a printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet; and a display control means for displaying a confirmation screen for the inspection results on a display means, the confirmation screen including: a first display area for displaying the inspection image if an abnormal image is found in the inspection results as a result of image inspection by the inspection means; and a second display area for displaying an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image, wherein the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the confirmation screen depending on the size of the inspection image. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to control the display of the setting screen so that the user can more easily set up the examination. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the hardware configuration of an image forming system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an inspection device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a loading device. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of a control device. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of an inspection device. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an examination setting screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of an examination setting screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of an examination setting screen. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for determining the display direction of a reference image. [Figure 12] 6A and 6B are diagrams showing examples of an examination setting screen and a layout setting screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an examination result screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an examination setting screen (comparison example). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0014] [First embodiment] <Image forming system> As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 includes an operation unit 20, an image forming device 30, a control device 40, an inspection device 50, and stacking devices 60a and 60b. The image forming device 30, the inspection device 50, and the stacking devices 60a and 60b each have separate housings. The number of stacking devices 60 may be one or more. The image forming system 100 may also be called an image inspection system. In this example, the stacking device 60a may also be called a sheet stacker or a sheet conveying device. The stacking device 60b may also be called a post-processing device or a finisher with a post-processing function. The same reference numerals are used for multiple identical or similar components, but when describing matters common to these components, the final lowercase letters (e.g., a, b, etc.) may be omitted.

[0015] The operation unit 20 has a display device that outputs information to the user, and an input device (for example, a touch panel sensor) that receives instructions from the user.

[0016] The image forming device 30 forms a toner image on a sheet P in accordance with YMCK color signals supplied from the control device 40. The letters YMCK attached to the reference symbols represent the toner colors yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. When matters common to all four colors are explained, the letters YMCK are omitted from the reference symbols.

[0017] The photoreceptor 1 is an image carrier that carries an electrostatic latent image and a toner image. The charger 2 uniformly charges the surface of the photoreceptor 1. The exposure unit 3 irradiates the photoreceptor 1Y with laser light corresponding to a color signal supplied from the control unit 40, forming an electrostatic latent image. The developer 4 develops the electrostatic latent image with toner to form a toner image. The primary transfer roller 5Y transfers the toner image from the photoreceptor 1 to the intermediate transfer belt 6. Here, the YMCK toner images are superimposed to form a color image. The intermediate transfer belt 6 transports the toner image to the secondary transfer unit 7.

[0018] Sheet cassette 11 is a storage container that stores a large number of sheets P. Conveyance rollers 12 feed sheets P stored in sheet cassette 11 and transport sheets P along a transport path. Image forming apparatus 30 may have two or more sheet cassettes.

[0019] The secondary transfer unit 7 transfers the toner image from the intermediate transfer belt 6 to the sheet P. The fixing unit 8 applies heat and pressure to the sheet P and the toner image to fix the toner image onto the sheet P. The discharge rollers 17 discharge the sheet P to the inspection device 50.

[0020] The inspection device 50 is a device that reads an image formed on a sheet P and inspects the quality of the image. In other words, the inspection device 50 is a device that inspects whether or not the image formed on the sheet P meets inspection standards (acceptance standards). The sheet P on which an image is formed is sometimes called a printed matter. The inspection device 50 inspects the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed matter including the sheet P and the image formed on the sheet P by the image forming device 30.

[0021] The image on the sheet P being conveyed to the reading position by the conveyance roller 53 is read by the image sensors 54 and 55. The image sensors 54 and 55 each include a light source that illuminates the sheet P and a CMOS sensor. CMOS is an abbreviation for complementary metal oxide semiconductor.

[0022] The sheet P from which the image has been read is discharged to the stacking device 60a. Note that for a sheet P that has been determined to be NG (not meeting the inspection standard, which may also be called a reject) by the inspection device 50, the control device 40 may control the image forming device 30 to form the same image on a new sheet P. A sheet sensor 56 that detects the sheet P is provided at the entrance of the inspection device 50.

[0023] The stacking device 60a receives the sheets P discharged from the inspection device 50 at an entrance 64a, stacks (discharges) the sheets onto sheet trays 61a and 62a as stacking units, and discharges the sheets P from an exit 65a. A sheet sensor 66a that detects the sheets P is provided at the entrance 64a.

[0024] A conveying path P1a extending from an entrance 64a branches into a conveying path P2a and a conveying path P3a at a branching position where a flapper F1a is installed. A sheet P conveyed along the conveying path P1a is guided to the conveying path P2a or the conveying path P3a by the flapper F1a. A sheet tray 61a is provided at the exit of the conveying path P2a. The sheet tray 61a is a large-capacity sheet stacking means capable of stacking a large number of sheets P. For example, sheets P that have been determined to have passed an image inspection (quality inspection) may be stacked on the sheet tray 61a.

[0025] The conveying path P3a branches into a conveying path P4a and a conveying path P5a at a branching position where a flapper F2a is installed. The sheet P conveyed along the conveying path P3a is guided to the conveying path P4a or the conveying path P5a by the flapper F2a.

[0026] A sheet tray 62a is provided at the exit of the conveying path P4a. For example, sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be unacceptable by the inspection device 50 may be stacked on the sheet tray 62a. However, sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be unacceptable may be discharged from the exit 65a to a downstream device (e.g., the stacking device 60c). Also, sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be OK (meet the inspection standards; may also be called "pass") may be stacked on the sheet tray 62a. The conveying path P5a extends to the exit 65a.

[0027] A downstream stacking device 60b may be connected to the exit 65a. Also, like the stacking device 60b, a sheet tray 69 may be provided at the exit 65a. The sheet tray 69 can also hold sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be unacceptable or acceptable. In this way, the types of sheets P to be discharged to the sheet trays 61a, 61b, 62a, 62b, and 69 are determined in advance based on settings made by the user.

[0028] One or more conveying rollers 63a are provided on each of the conveying paths P1a, P2a, P3a, P4a, and P5a. The conveying rollers 63a convey the sheet P from the upstream side to the downstream side in the conveying direction of the sheet P. The conveying rollers 63a may be a roller pair consisting of two rollers that sandwich and convey the sheet P.

[0029] The stacking device 60b receives the sheets P discharged from the stacking device 60a at an entrance 64b, and stacks (discharges) the sheets onto sheet trays 61b, 62b, and 69 serving as stacking units. A sheet sensor 66b for detecting the sheets P is provided at the entrance 64b.

[0030] A conveying path P1b extending from an entrance 64b branches into a conveying path P2b and a conveying path P3b at a branching position where a flapper F1b is installed. A sheet P conveyed along the conveying path P1b is guided to the conveying path P2b or the conveying path P3b by the flapper F1b. A sheet tray 61b is provided at the exit of the conveying path P2b. For example, sheets P that have been determined to have passed an image inspection (quality inspection) may be stacked on the sheet tray 61b.

[0031] The conveying path P3b branches into a conveying path P4b and a conveying path P5b at a branching position where a flapper F2b is installed. The sheet P conveyed along the conveying path P3b is guided to the conveying path P4b or the conveying path P5b by the flapper F2b.

[0032] A sheet tray 62b is provided at the exit of the conveying path P4b. For example, sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be unacceptable by the inspection device 50 may be stacked on the sheet tray 62b. However, sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be unacceptable may be discharged from the exit 65b to the sheet tray 69. Also, sheets P whose image quality has been determined to be OK (meeting the inspection standard, or which may also be called passing) may be stacked on the sheet tray 62b. The conveying path P5b extends to the exit 65b via the post-processing unit 68.

[0033] The sheet trays 61b, 62b, and 69 provided in the stacking device 60b may be referred to as an upper tray, a middle tray, and a lower tray, respectively. The post-processing unit 68 may be provided with a binding processor that binds the sheets P discharged from the stacking device 60a to create a sheet bundle and staples the sheet bundle. The post-processing unit 68 may be provided with a bookbinding processor that folds the sheet bundle in half. The post-processing unit 68 may be provided with a trimming processor that cuts the sheet bundle.

[0034] One or more conveying rollers 63b are provided on each of the conveying paths P1b, P2b, P3b, P4b, and P5b. The conveying rollers 63b convey the sheet P from the upstream side to the downstream side in the conveying direction of the sheet P. The conveying rollers 63b may be a roller pair consisting of two rollers that sandwich and convey the sheet P.

[0035] The number of stacking devices 60 connected downstream of the inspection device 50 may be one or more. The total number of sheet trays 61, 62, 69 provided in the stacking device 60 connected downstream of the inspection device 50 may be two or more. The number of flappers F1, F2 may be one or more. The flappers F1, F2 may also be called guide plates, guide members, or branch claws. The image forming device 30 also includes a solenoid that drives the flappers and a motor that drives the conveyance rollers, but these are not shown.

[0036] <Controller> 2 shows an example configuration of the control device 40. The control device 40 includes a CPU 201, a memory 210, and a communication circuit 220. The CPU 201 executes a control program 213 stored in the memory 210 to realize multiple functions. The CPU 201 may include multiple processors or CPU cores. Some or all of the multiple functions realized by the CPU 201 may be realized by a hardware circuit different from the CPU 201. Examples of such hardware circuits include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and an image processor.

[0037] The memory 210 is a storage device including a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a solid-state drive (SSD), a hard disk drive (HDD), etc. The communication circuit 220 has a network interface for connecting to a local area network, and a communication interface for communicating with the image forming device 30, the inspection device 50, and the loading device 60.

[0038] The CPU 201 communicates with the image forming device 30, the inspection device 50, and the loading device 60 through the communication circuit 220. The CPU 201 also communicates with a host computer 70, which is a type of information processing device, through the communication circuit 220. The host computer 70 may transmit a print job to the control device 40.

[0039] The operation unit 20 includes a display device 21 and an input device 22. The operation unit 20 may also have an audio circuit and a speaker for outputting messages to the user.

[0040] The CPU 201 functions as an inspection control unit 205, a job processing unit 206, and a reference image management unit 207 in accordance with a control program 213. The inspection control unit 205 acquires image inspection result information (e.g., pass / fail, scanned image, and cause of failure) from the inspection device 50 via the communication circuit 220. The inspection control unit 205 displays the inspection results received from the inspection device 50 on the display device 21. The inspection control unit 205 may notify the inspection results by voice. The inspection control unit 205 may also transmit the inspection results to the host computer 70 by email or the like. The inspection control unit 205 may change the discharge destination of the sheet P depending on the inspection results. For example, the inspection control unit 205 may control flappers F1 and F2 based on the inspection results to discharge the sheet P to a sheet tray designated by the user from among sheet trays 61, 62, and 69.

[0041] The job processing unit 206 controls a print job for printing an image on a sheet P, a stacking job for stacking a sheet bundle on the stacking device 60a, a post-processing job for the sheet bundle in the stacking device 60b, etc. The job processing unit 206 may store job data (job information) required to execute these jobs in the memory 210.

[0042] The reference image management unit 207 controls the inspection device 50 in accordance with instructions input from the input device 22 and generates reference image data 215. Here, the reference image is an image that is compared with a scanned image (inspection image) of a printed material and serves as a standard for determining whether the image inspection has passed. The reference image management unit 207 generates the reference image data 215 based on input image data input from the host computer 70, for example, or generates the reference image data 215 by scanning a printed material (a sheet P on which a reference image is printed). The reference image management unit 207 stores the generated reference image data 215 in the memory 210. When the reference image management unit 207 receives a reference image request from the inspection device 50 via the communication circuit 220, it transmits the reference image data 215 from the memory 210 to the inspection device 50.

[0043] <Inspection equipment> 3 shows an example of the configuration of an inspection device 50 provided with an inspection controller 51. The inspection controller 51 includes a CPU 301, a memory 310, and a communication circuit 320. The CPU 301 realizes multiple functions by executing a control program 313 stored in the memory 310. Some or all of the multiple functions realized by the CPU 301 may be realized by a hardware circuit different from the CPU 301.

[0044] The memory 310 is a storage device including a ROM, a RAM, an SSD, an HDD, etc. The CPU 301 is connected to the control device 40 via a communication circuit 320, and receives various commands and data and transmits inspection results. The CPU 301 stores the reference image data 215 received from the control device 40 via the communication circuit 320 in the memory 310.

[0045] The CPU 301 functions as an inspection unit 302, a transport control unit 306, and a reading control unit 307 in accordance with a control program 313. The inspection unit 302 includes a setting unit 303 and an evaluation unit 304. The inspection unit 302 performs image inspection in accordance with setting data 314 stored in memory 310, and transmits the inspection results to the control device 40. The inspection may be performed by the CPU 201, or by an external PC (e.g., host computer 70) connected to the image forming system 100. PC is an abbreviation for personal computer.

[0046] The inspection image data (read image data) 312 is image data created by the image sensors 54 and 55 reading the sheet P. The inspection image data 312 is also temporarily stored in the memory 310.

[0047] The setting unit 303 determines the inspection settings to be applied to the inspection image data 312 , creates setting data 314 that defines the inspection settings, and stores the setting data 314 in the memory 310 .

[0048] The evaluation unit 304 determines whether the leading edge of the sheet P has reached the inspection device 50 based on the detection result of the sheet sensor 56. When the sheet P reaches the inspection device 50, the evaluation unit 304 controls the image sensors 54, 55 via the reading control unit 307 to read the sheet P and acquire inspection image data 312. Based on the setting data 314, the evaluation unit 304 compares the reference image data 215 with the inspection image data 312 to determine whether the image formed on the sheet P and the shape of the sheet P meet the inspection criteria. Here, the inspection content, inspection area, and inspection criteria may be included in the setting data 314.

[0049] For example, if the inspection content is "positional deviation detection," the evaluation unit 304 may determine that the sheet P passes if the amount of deviation between the position of the image in the reference image data 215 and the position of the image in the inspection image data 312 is less than or equal to a predetermined value. Here, the position of the image refers to the position of the image formed on the sheet P. The evaluation unit 304 may determine that the sheet P fails if the amount of deviation exceeds the predetermined value. In other words, the amount of deviation between the position of the image in the reference image data 215 and the position of the image in the inspection image data 312 being less than or equal to a predetermined value corresponds to satisfying the inspection standard. The amount of deviation between the position of the image in the reference image data 215 and the position of the image in the inspection image data 312 being greater than the predetermined value corresponds to not satisfying the inspection standard.

[0050] When the inspection content is set to "black dot detection," the evaluation unit 304 may determine that the image is pass if the size of black dots that are not present in the image of the reference image data 215 and that are present in the image of the inspection image data 312 is equal to or smaller than the judgment threshold. In other words, black dots correspond to noise images that are not present in the image corresponding to the reference image data 215 and that are present in the image corresponding to the inspection image data 312 to which reduction processing has been applied. The evaluation unit 304 may determine that the size of black dots exceeds the judgment threshold. In other words, the size of black dots not exceeding the judgment threshold corresponds to meeting the inspection standard. Furthermore, the size of black dots exceeding the judgment threshold corresponds to not meeting the inspection standard.

[0051] In this embodiment, "misalignment detection" and "black spot detection" are described as inspection contents, but these are merely examples. For example, the inspection contents may also include "streak detection." Streak detection refers to detecting streak-like images that do not exist in the original image. In other words, streaks correspond to noise images that are not present in the image corresponding to the reference image data 215 but are present in the image corresponding to the test image data 312 to which the reduction process has been applied. Streaks may occur when components involved in image formation require cleaning, replacement, or repair. In other words, a determination process may be performed to determine streaks based on the degree of similarity between the image corresponding to the reference image data 215 and the image corresponding to the test image data 312 to which the reduction process (image processing) has been applied.

[0052] In this embodiment, when the inspection content is "positional deviation detection," the relative positions of the image in the reference image data 215 and the image in the inspection image data 312 are inspected, but this is merely an example. For example, the absolute position of the edge of the sheet P in the image in the inspection image data 312 may be inspected. In this case, if the distance between the absolute position of the image in the reference image data 215 and the absolute position of the image in the inspection image data 312 is equal to or less than a threshold, it is determined to pass. If the distance exceeds the threshold, it is determined to fail.

[0053] The evaluation unit 304 creates an inspection result indicating the judgment result. The evaluation unit 304 transmits the inspection result to the control device 40 via the communication circuit 320. In this way, the inspection unit 302 acquires the reference image data 215, which serves as a reference for inspecting the printed matter, from the control device 40, and acquires the inspection image data 312 by reading the printed matter including the sheet conveyed from the image forming device 30 and the image formed on the sheet. The inspection unit 302 inspects the printed matter based on the reference image data 215 and the inspection image data 312.

[0054] The conveyance control unit 306 drives the motor M2 to rotate the conveyance roller 53. The reading control unit 307 controls the image sensors 54 and 55 to read the sheet P and generate inspection image data 312. The image sensor 54 reads the first side of the sheet P, and the image sensor 55 reads the second side of the sheet P. This allows the present embodiment to perform image inspection on both sides of the sheet P.

[0055] <Loading device> 4 shows a configuration example of a loading device 60 provided with a loading controller 67. The loading controller 67 includes a CPU 401, a memory 410, and a communication circuit 420. The CPU 401 realizes multiple functions by executing a control program 413 stored in the memory 410. Some or all of the multiple functions realized by the CPU 401 may be realized by a hardware circuit other than the CPU 401.

[0056] The memory 410 is a storage device including a ROM, a RAM, an SSD, an HDD, etc. The CPU 401 is connected to the control device 40 via a communication circuit 420, and receives various commands and data and transmits execution results.

[0057] The job control unit 402 executes a loading job based on job data (job information) received from the control device 40 via the communication circuit 420. The job data may include, for example, information indicating the content of the job, and may be stored in the memory 410.

[0058] The transport control unit 406 starts the rotation of the motor M1 in accordance with a rotation command received from the control device 40 (job processing unit 206). The transport control unit 406 stops the rotation of the motor M1 in accordance with a stop command received from the control device 40 (job processing unit 206). As a result, the transport roller 63 driven by the motor M1 rotates and stops.

[0059] The flapper control unit 407 drives the solenoids SL1 and SL2 to switch the flappers F1 and F2 for each sheet P in accordance with a switching command received from the control device 40 (job processing unit 206). This determines the discharge destination of the sheet P (the sheet P is guided and transported to either the sheet tray 61, the sheet tray 62, or a subsequent stacking device). The flappers F1 and F2 may be controlled based on the inspection results received from the inspection device 50, instead of the switching command received from the control device 40. For example, the flappers F1 and F2 may be controlled so that a sheet P determined to be unacceptable (NG) is discharged to the sheet tray 62a of the stacking device 60a, and a sheet P determined to be acceptable (OK) is discharged to the sheet tray 61a or the stacking device 60b.

[0060] 1, the loading device 60b is a post-processing device, and includes a post-processing control unit 408. The post-processing control unit 408 controls the post-processing unit 68 in accordance with a post-processing execution command received from the control device 40.

[0061] <Processing procedure of the control device 40> 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of processing executed by the CPU 201 of the control device 40. When an instruction to start printing is given via the operation unit 20, the CPU 201 executes the processing according to this procedure.

[0062] In S501, the CPU 201 (job processing unit 206) creates job information for a print job and sends it to the inspection device 50. The job information includes sheet information, inspection settings, and discharge destination information. The sheet information includes the size and number of sheets P. The job information may include, as part of the inspection settings, an instruction that the inspection device 50 should execute an inspection job (i.e., information indicating that the print job requires image inspection of sheets P). The discharge destination information may include, for example, identification information for one of the stacking devices 60a and 60b that will be the discharge destination, and identification information for the OK tray and the NG tray. The OK tray is a sheet tray onto which sheets P that have passed (determined to be passed) as a result of image inspection by the inspection device 50 are discharged. The NG tray is a sheet tray onto which sheets P that have not passed (determined to be failed) as a result of image inspection by the inspection device 50 are discharged.

[0063] In S502, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) determines whether or not a request (reference image request) has been received from the inspection device 50. This request is a signal requesting the control device 40 to transmit reference image data 215. If a request has not been received, the CPU 201 proceeds to S504. If a request has been received, the CPU 201 proceeds to S503. In S503, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) reads out the reference image data 215 from the memory 210, transmits it to the inspection device 50, and proceeds to S504. In this example, the reference image data 215 may be input image data used to form an image by the image forming device 30.

[0064] In S504, the CPU 201 (job processing unit 206) determines whether or not the inspection device 50 has notified it that it is ready. If the inspection device 50 has not notified it that it is ready, the CPU 201 returns the process to S502. If the inspection device 50 has notified it that it is ready, the CPU 201 advances the process to S505.

[0065] In S505, the CPU 201 (job processing unit 206) controls the image forming apparatus 30 to print on the sheet P. The sheet P on which the image is printed is discharged from the image forming apparatus 30 to the inspection apparatus 50. Thereafter, in S506, the CPU 201 (job processing unit 206) determines whether printing is complete based on the print job being executed. That is, the CPU 201 determines whether printing is complete for all pages set in the print job. If pages remain to be printed, the CPU 201 returns the process to S505 and controls the image forming apparatus 30 to print the next page. If no pages remain to be printed, the CPU 201 ends execution of the print job and proceeds to S507.

[0066] In S507, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) determines whether or not the inspection results have been received from the inspection device 50. If the job information (S501) did not instruct the inspection device 50 to execute an inspection job, the inspection results are not received from the inspection device 50. In this case, the CPU 201 ends the processing of this procedure.

[0067] If the job information (S501) indicates that the inspection device 50 should execute an inspection job, the inspection results are received from the inspection device 50. In this case, the CPU 201 advances the process from S507 to S508. In S508, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) performs display processing to display the received inspection results on the display device 21. Note that the CPU 201 may display the inspection results only if there is a sheet P determined to be NG. When an instruction to end the display of the inspection results is given via the operation unit 20, the CPU 201 ends the display of the inspection results and ends the processing of this procedure.

[0068] <Processing Procedure of Inspection Device 50> FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of processing executed by the CPU 301 of the inspection device 50.

[0069] In S601, CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) receives job information from control device 40. The job information may be stored in memory 310. When the job information is stored in memory 310, it may be stored in memory 310 as part of setting data 314. CPU 301 transmits (transfers) the job information to loading device 60a connected downstream of inspection device 50.

[0070] In S602, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) analyzes the job information and determines whether the job information instructs that an inspection job should be executed. If the execution of an inspection job is not instructed, the CPU 301 advances the process to S611, notifies the control device 40 that preparation is complete, and ends the process of this procedure. In this case, the inspection device 50 executes a transport job to transport the sheet P to the subsequent stacking device 60a. If the execution of an inspection job is instructed, the CPU 301 advances the process from S602 to S603.

[0071] In S603, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) transmits a request for the reference image data 215 to the control device 40. In S604, when the CPU 301 receives the reference image data 215 from the control device 40, it stores the received reference image data 215 in the memory 310. Thereafter, in S605, the CPU 301 notifies the control device 40 that preparation is complete. Note that the preparation completion notification in S605 or S610 may also be transmitted to the subsequent stacking devices 60a to 60b. In response to the preparation completion notification sent to the control device 40, the image forming device 30 starts printing on the sheet P. As a result, the sheet P starts to be discharged from the image forming device 30 to the inspection device 50.

[0072] In S606, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302, conveyance control unit 306) determines whether or not the sheet P has reached the inspection device 50 based on the detection signal output from the sheet sensor 56. The sheet P reaching the inspection device 50 means that the sheet sensor 56 has detected the leading edge of the sheet P. When the sheet P has reached the sheet sensor 56, the CPU 301 advances the process to S607.

[0073] In S607, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302, reading control unit 307) executes the image inspection specified by the setting data 314. The reading control unit 307 generates inspection image data 312 by reading the sheet P with the image sensors 54 and 55. Furthermore, the inspection unit 302 inspects the inspection image data 312 in accordance with the inspection settings specified by the setting data 314. For example, the inspection unit 302 compares the inspection image data 312 with the reference image data 215 to determine whether the image formed on the sheet P meets the inspection criteria.

[0074] After the image inspection is performed, in S608, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) stores the inspection results in the memory 310. Here, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) may store the inspection results in the memory 310 and notify the downstream stacking device 60a of the inspection results. In this case, the CPU 401 (flapper control unit 407) of the stacking device 60 may perform control to switch the discharge destination of the sheet P between an OK tray (e.g., sheet tray 61a) and an NG tray (e.g., sheet tray 62a) based on the inspection results received from the inspection device 50. That is, the CPU 401 may control the flappers F1 and F2 to discharge the sheet P determined to be acceptable to the OK tray and to discharge the sheet P determined to be unacceptable to the NG tray.

[0075] Thereafter, in S609, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) determines whether the image inspection is complete based on the job information. If there are still pages to be inspected, the CPU 301 returns the process from S609 to S606 and waits for the arrival of the next sheet P. If there are no pages to be inspected, the CPU 301 determines that the image inspection is complete and proceeds to S610. In S610, the CPU 301 (inspection unit 302) transmits the inspection results held in RAM 310 to the control device 40, and ends the execution of the inspection job, thereby ending the processing of this procedure. The CPU 301 also transmits the inspection image data 312 to the control device 40 together with the inspection results to be transmitted to the control device 40.

[0076] <Print settings screen> FIG. 7 shows a print setting screen SC1 as an example of a print setting screen according to the present embodiment. The print setting screen SC1 may also be referred to as a job input screen. The print setting screen SC1 is configured to accept print settings for a print job involving quality inspection (image inspection) of printed matter by the inspection device 50. The button 701a is a button for specifying the size (including the length of the sheet in the conveying direction), basis weight, and sheet cassette 11 of the sheet P to be printed. The button 701b is a button for instructing transition from the print setting screen SC1 to the inspection setting screen SC2 ( FIG. 8 ). In the inspection setting screen SC2, the inspection area where the quality inspection by the inspection device 50 will be performed, etc., are set as inspection settings for the quality inspection. The button 701c is a button for instructing transition from the print setting screen SC1 to the discharge destination setting screen. In the discharge destination setting screen, for example, a discharge destination for NG sheets and a discharge destination for OK sheets are set. The button 701d is a button for instructing cancellation of the settings.

[0077] When the button 701d is operated by the operator (user), the print setting screen SC1 transitions to a predetermined initial screen. The button 701e is a button for instructing the start of printing. When the button 701e is operated by the operator, the CPU 201 of the control device 40 starts executing the process according to the procedure in FIG. 5. Note that when the button 701e is operated to start execution of a print job, the job information sent from the control device 40 to the inspection device 50 does not include an instruction that the inspection device 50 should execute an inspection job. In other words, the print job is executed as a job that does not require image inspection of the sheet P.

[0078] <Test setting screen> FIG. 8 shows an inspection setting screen SC2 as an example of an inspection setting screen according to this embodiment. The inspection setting screen SC2 is displayed on the display device 21 when button 701e on the print setting screen SC1 is operated. The inspection setting screen SC2 is a screen that accepts instructions from the operator to set an inspection area where quality inspection is to be performed by the inspection device 50. A reference image 801, an inspection area 802a, etc. are displayed in a display area 800 (first display area). In this example, the reference image 801 and the inspection area 802a are displayed in an overlapping manner in the display area 800. In the example of FIG. 8, a reference image 801 of a size corresponding to an A4 size sheet, which is a standard size, is displayed in the display area 800.

[0079] A scroll bar 831 may be arranged around the periphery of the display area 800. The scroll bar 831 is used to move the reference image 801 parallel to the sub-scanning direction, for example, when the sub-scanning direction of the reference image 801 displayed in the display area 800 coincides with the vertical direction of the display area 800. The button 833 is a button for discarding the existing settings configured for the reference image 801. The enlarge button 834 is a button for enlarging the reference image 801 displayed in the display area 800. The reduce button 835 is a button for reducing the reference image 801 displayed in the display area 800.

[0080] The inspection area and the non-inspection area are set via a mouse or touch panel, which is part of the input device 22. In this example, the inspection areas that can be set include a standard inspection area, a priority inspection area, and a character inspection area. The standard inspection area is, for example, an inspection area where inspection of standard content is performed, and is applied to the entire reference image 801 displayed in the display area 800. In this example, the priority inspection area, the character inspection area, and the non-inspection area can be set individually within the standard inspection area.

[0081] Menu 812a is a pull-down menu for setting the inspection level (inspection accuracy) to be applied to the standard inspection area. A pull-down menu may also be called a drop-down list. In this example, inspection level 1 has the lowest inspection accuracy, and the inspection accuracy increases as the inspection level number increases.

[0082] Inspection area 802b is a priority inspection area that is set by operating button 811b in display area 810 (second display area). A priority inspection area is, for example, an inspection area where high-precision inspection is performed. In this example, the priority inspection area is indicated by a dashed frame. Menu 812b is a pull-down menu for setting the inspection level (inspection precision) to be applied to inspection area 802b.

[0083] In addition to the standard inspection area and the priority inspection area, a character inspection area not shown in the display area 800 in FIG. 8 can be set by operating button 811c. The character inspection area is an inspection area where inspection is performed by recognizing, for example, characters or barcodes. Furthermore, an inspection exclusion area 803 is set by operating button 813 and is an area where inspection is not performed. High-precision inspection is not required for cylindrical or triangular shapes. Therefore, areas including these shapes may be set as inspection exclusion areas.

[0084] In this way, the inspection level can be set for each area included in the print target. This allows the user to set appropriate pass criteria. As a result, printouts of acceptable quality are judged to pass, reducing unnecessary reprints and improving productivity. It also reduces unnecessary disposal of sheets P. Furthermore, because the inspection level can be set for each area included in the print target, the memory and processing power required for inspection can be reduced compared to when inspection is always performed at the highest level of accuracy for the entire image or for each area.

[0085] Button 831 is a button for instructing to return to the print setting screen SC1, which is the original screen. When button 831 is pressed, the inspection settings input through inspection setting screen SC2 are discarded. Button 832 is a button for instructing to start inspection. When button 832 is operated by the operator, CPU 201 of control device 40 starts executing processing according to the procedure in FIG. 5. When button 832 is operated to start execution of a print job, job information sent from control device 40 to inspection device 50 includes an instruction that the inspection device 50 should execute an inspection job. In other words, the print job is executed as a job requiring image inspection of sheet P.

[0086] 8, a button 811, a menu 812, and a button 813 constitute an operation object (operation object group) for accepting an inspection setting for an image inspection of an inspection image. In this embodiment, the operation object is configured to accept at least one of a setting of an inspection content for a reference image and a setting of an inspection area where the image inspection is to be performed. The inspection setting screen SC2 is configured as a screen including a first display area (display area 800) for displaying the reference image, and a second display area (display area 810) for displaying the above operation objects for accepting an inspection setting for an image inspection of the inspection image.

[0087] <Example of test setting screen layout> In this embodiment, the display direction (display orientation) of the reference image is determined (controlled) according to the size of the reference image so that the reference image is displayed larger in the examination setting screen SC2 (setting screen). That is, the layout of the first display area (display area 800) displaying the reference image and the second display area (display area 810) displaying operation objects for accepting examination settings for the image examination is determined so that the reference image is displayed larger in the examination setting screen SC2. In addition, in a second embodiment described later, an example will be described in which, when the layout of the reference image (first display area) and operation objects (second display area) in the examination setting screen SC2 is set in advance, the display direction of the reference image in the examination setting screen SC2 is determined (controlled) according to such layout. Such display control allows the user to appropriately set the contents of the examination for the reference image in the examination setting screen SC2, making it easier for the user to set the examination.

[0088] 9 and 10 show an example of the layout of the inspection setting screen SC2. In the examples of FIGS. 9 and 10, a reference image 801 of a size corresponding to a long-size sheet, which is an atypical size, is displayed in the display area 800. In this embodiment, a long-size sheet corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction (sub-scanning direction) exceeds a predetermined length. For example, the length in the transport direction (sub-scanning length) of a long-size sheet P exceeds 900 mm. A long-size sheet may also be called long paper. Note that a long-size sheet may be defined as a sheet whose length in the transport direction (sub-scanning direction) exceeds a predetermined length and whose longitudinal length is a predetermined multiple (e.g., three times) or more of its lateral length.

[0089] 9A and 9B show examples of layouts in which a reference image 901 and an operation object 902 are arranged in different positions in the horizontal direction of the examination setting screen SC2 within the examination setting screen. Fig. 9A shows an example of a layout in which the reference image 901 (display area 800, first display area) is arranged on the left side of the examination setting screen SC2 in the horizontal direction, and the operation object 902 (display area 810, second display area) is arranged on the right side. Fig. 9B shows an example of a layout in which the reference image 901 (display area 800, first display area) is arranged on the right side of the examination setting screen SC2 in the horizontal direction, and the operation object 902 (display area 810, second display area) is arranged on the left side.

[0090] 10A and 10B show examples of layouts in which a reference image 901 and an operation object 902 are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the examination setting screen SC2 on the examination setting screen. Fig. 10A shows an example of a layout in which the reference image 901 (display area 800, first display area) is arranged at the top and the operation object 902 (display area 810, second display area) is arranged at the bottom in the vertical direction of the examination setting screen SC2. Fig. 10B shows an example of a layout in which the reference image 901 (display area 800, first display area) is arranged at the bottom and the operation object 902 (display area 810, second display area) is arranged at the top in the vertical direction of the examination setting screen SC2.

[0091] In the layout of the examination setting screen SC2 in FIG. 9, the long-size reference image 901 is displayed vertically (i.e., the side of the reference image 901 parallel to the sheet transport direction is displayed along the vertical direction of the examination setting screen SC2). Also, in the layout of the examination setting screen SC2 in FIG. 10, the long-size reference image 901 is displayed horizontally (i.e., the side of the reference image 901 parallel to the sheet transport direction is displayed along the horizontal direction of the examination setting screen SC2). In this embodiment, the examination setting screen SC2 is configured as a screen whose horizontal length is longer than its vertical length. In this case, it is possible to display the long-size reference image 901 larger in the examination setting screen SC2 by displaying it horizontally as in FIG. 10 rather than vertically as in FIG. 9.

[0092] In this embodiment, if the size of the reference image is not long (for example, A4 size), the reference image can be displayed in a sufficient size by displaying the reference image in portrait orientation as shown in Figure 8, without having to display it in landscape orientation within the inspection setting screen SC2.

[0093] <Display control of the test setting screen> FIG. 11A is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a process for determining the display direction (display orientation) of a reference image, which is executed when the CPU 201 (examination control unit 205) displays the examination setting screen SC2 in this embodiment.

[0094] In S101, the CPU 201 determines whether the size of the reference image to be displayed in the inspection setting screen SC2 is long (i.e., whether the size corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length). If the size of the reference image is long, the CPU 201 proceeds to S102.

[0095] In S102, the CPU 201 determines the display orientation of the reference image so that the reference image is arranged horizontally as shown in FIG. 10, and displays the inspection setting screen SC2, thereby completing the processing of this procedure. That is, the CPU 201 displays the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the sheet conveyance direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the inspection setting screen SC2. At this time, the CPU 201 displays the entire reference image on the inspection setting screen SC2 so that the display size when the entire reference image is displayed in the determined display orientation is maximized. Note that the user may previously set which of the layouts of FIG. 10(A) and (B) to apply.

[0096] On the other hand, if the size of the reference image is not long, the CPU 201 proceeds from S101 to S103. In S103, the CPU 201 determines the display orientation of the reference image so that the reference image is arranged vertically as shown in FIG. 8, and displays the inspection setting screen SC2, thereby ending the processing of this procedure. That is, the CPU 201 displays the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the sheet conveyance direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the inspection setting screen SC2. Note that the layout of FIG. 8 (FIG. 9(A)) may be set in advance as a standard layout (default layout) to be applied to reference images that are not long.

[0097] The examination setting screen SC2, whose display has been controlled in this way, is displayed, for example, as follows: When a sheet having a first length in the transport direction is read, the first display area (display area 800) and the second display area (display area 810) are displayed in a first state, and when a sheet having a second length in the transport direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a second state. In this case, the first length is longer than the second length, and in the first state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side horizontally, and in the second state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side vertically.

[0098] As described above, in the image forming system 100 of this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 30 forms an image on a sheet. The inspection apparatus 50 inspects the printed material based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed material including the sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus 30. The CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) of the control device 40 displays, on the display device 21, an inspection setting screen SC2 including a first display area (display area 800) that displays a reference image that serves as a basis for image inspection by the inspection apparatus 50, and a second display area (display area 810) that displays operation objects for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection. At this time, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) determines the arrangement of the first and second display areas on the inspection setting screen SC2 (the display direction of the reference image) depending on the size of the reference image. For example, when the size of the reference image is long, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area to display the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the sheet transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen (i.e., display the reference image horizontally).

[0099] This display control allows the reference image to be displayed larger in the examination setting screen SC2 when the reference image is long. This allows the user to appropriately set the contents of the examination for the reference image using the operation object 902 in the examination setting screen SC2. In this way, according to this embodiment, it is possible to control the display of the examination setting screen SC2 so that the user can more easily set the examination.

[0100] In the present embodiment, display control of the inspection setting screen SC2 in the image forming system 100 is performed by the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) of the control device 40, but it may also be performed by the inspection device 50. That is, the CPU 301 (setting unit 303) of the inspection device 50 may function as display control means. In that case, an input device and a display device (display) may be provided in the inspection device 50, or the operation unit 20 (display device 21 and input device 22) of the image forming system 100 may be used by the CPU 301 (setting unit 303).

[0101] [Second embodiment] The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, a process for determining the display direction of the reference image in the examination setting screen SC2 when the layout of the examination setting screen SC2 is set in advance by the user will be described. The description of the first embodiment will be cited for the description of matters common to the second embodiment and the first embodiment.

[0102] <Layout settings for the examination settings screen> Fig. 12(A) shows an example of an examination setting screen SC2. The examination setting screen SC2 of this example is provided with a button 1201 for instructing a change in the layout of the examination setting screen SC2. When the button 1201 is operated by the user, the display screen of the display device 21 transitions to a layout setting screen SC3 of Fig. 12(B).

[0103] The layout setting screen SC3 is configured so that the user can select one of layouts 1 to 4. Layouts 1 and 3 correspond to the layouts in FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B). Layouts 2 and 4 correspond to the layouts in FIGS. 10(A) and 10(B). The user can select a layout to be applied to the examination setting screen SC2 through the layout setting screen SC3. The layout settings selected by the user are stored in the memory 210 and are used by the CPU 201.

[0104] In this way, the layout setting screen SC3 can accept first layouts (layouts 1 and 3) in which the reference image 901 and the operation object 902 are arranged at different horizontal positions on the setting screen within the examination setting screen SC2. The layout setting screen SC3 can also accept second layouts (layouts 2 and 4) in which the reference image 901 and the operation object 902 are arranged at different vertical positions on the setting screen within the examination setting screen SC2. In this embodiment, the layout setting screen SC3 functions as an example of a receiving means for receiving the layout setting of the examination setting screen SC2.

[0105] <Display control of the test setting screen> FIG. 11B is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a process for determining the display direction (display orientation) of the reference image, which is executed when the CPU 201 (examination control unit 205) displays the examination setting screen SC2 in this embodiment.

[0106] In S101, the CPU 201 determines whether the size of the reference image to be displayed in the inspection setting screen SC2 is long (i.e., whether the size corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length), as in the first embodiment. If the size of the reference image is long, the CPU 201 proceeds to S201.

[0107] In S201, S102 and S103, the CPU 201 determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching between displaying the reference image 901 horizontally (displaying the side of the reference image parallel to the sheet transport direction along the horizontal direction of the examination setting screen SC2) and displaying it vertically (displaying the side of the reference image parallel to the sheet transport direction along the vertical direction of the examination setting screen SC2) depending on the arrangement of the operation object 902 in the examination setting screen SC2.

[0108] In S201, the CPU 201 refers to the layout setting of the examination setting screen SC2 stored in the memory 210, and determines whether or not a layout is set in which the operation object 902 is arranged on the left or right side of the reference image 901. In other words, the CPU 201 determines whether or not a layout is set in which the examination image 901 and the operation object 902 are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the examination setting screen SC in the examination confirmation screen SC2.

[0109] If a layout is set in which the operation object 902 is arranged on the left or right side of the reference image 901, the CPU 201 proceeds from S201 to S103. In this case, the layout shown in Fig. 9A or 9B is set. In S103, the CPU 201 determines the display orientation of the reference image so that the reference image is arranged vertically, and displays the inspection setting screen SC2 of the set layout, thereby ending the processing of this procedure.

[0110] 14 shows an example of an examination setting screen SC2 of a comparative example in which the reference image 901 is arranged horizontally when the layout of FIG. 9A (a layout in which the operation object 902 is arranged on the left or right side of the reference image 901) is set. Compared to the example of FIG. 9A, the reference image 901 is displayed smaller in this comparative example. In this embodiment, when a layout in which the operation object 902 is arranged on the left or right side of the reference image 901 is applied, the display orientation of the reference image is determined so that the reference image is arranged vertically in order to display the reference image larger.

[0111] On the other hand, if a layout for arranging the operation object 902 on the left or right side of the reference image 901 has not been set, the CPU 201 proceeds from S201 to S102. In this case, the layout of Fig. 10(A) or (B) is set. In S102, the CPU 201 determines the display orientation of the reference image so that the reference image is arranged horizontally, and displays the inspection setting screen SC2 of the set layout, thereby ending the processing of this procedure.

[0112] On the other hand, if the size of the reference image is not long, the CPU 201 proceeds from S101 to S103, as in the first embodiment. In S103, the CPU 201 determines the display orientation of the reference image so that the reference image is arranged vertically as shown in Fig. 8, and displays the inspection setting screen SC2, thereby ending the processing of this procedure.

[0113] As described above, according to this embodiment, when the size of the reference image is long, display control can be realized to display the reference image larger in the examination setting screen SC2 according to the arrangement of the operation object 902 in the examination setting screen SC2. This allows the user to appropriately set the contents of the examination for the reference image using the operation object 902 in the examination setting screen SC2. As described above, according to this embodiment, display control of the examination setting screen SC2 can be performed to make it easier for the user to set up the examination.

[0114] [Third embodiment] The third embodiment is a modification of the first and second embodiments. In the third embodiment, the display control of the test setting screen SC2 described in the first and second embodiments is applied to the display control of the test result screen (test result confirmation screen). In the third embodiment, the description of the first and second embodiments is cited for the explanation of matters common to the first and second embodiments.

[0115] FIG. 13 shows an inspection result screen SC4 as an example of an inspection result screen (inspection result confirmation screen) according to this embodiment. The inspection result screen SC4 is an example of a screen displayed on the display device 21 when the inspection device 50 performs a quality inspection on a printed material consisting of a long-sized sheet (long paper) and determines that the sheet is NG. The inspection result screen SC4 is displayed on the display device 21 in S508 when the inspection device 50 determines that any sheet P is NG as a result of the quality inspection. Upon receiving the inspection results from the inspection device 50, the inspection control unit 205 creates an inspection result confirmation screen SC4 based on the inspection results and displays it on the display device 21. The inspection control unit 205 generates an inspection image to be displayed on the inspection result screen SC2 based on the inspection image data 312 received from the inspection device 50 together with the inspection results.

[0116] Fig. 13(A) shows an example of a layout in which the test image 1301 and enlarged images 1321, 1331 are arranged in different positions in the horizontal direction of the test result screen SC4 (confirmation screen). Fig. 13(A) shows an example of a layout in which the test image 1301 (first display area) is arranged on the left side of the test result screen SC4 and the enlarged images 1321, 1331 (second display area) are arranged on the right side, in the horizontal direction of the test result screen SC4, and corresponds to the layout of the test setting screen SC2 in Fig. 9(A). As in Fig. 9(B), a layout in which the test image 1301 and the enlarged images 1321, 1331 are arranged in reverse can also be realized.

[0117] Fig. 13(B) shows an example of a layout in which the test image 1301 and enlarged images 1321, 1331 are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the test result screen SC4. Fig. 13(B) shows an example of a layout in which the test image 1301 (first display area) is arranged at the top and the enlarged images 1321, 1331 (second display area) are arranged at the bottom in the vertical direction of the test result screen SC4, and corresponds to the layout of the test setting screen SC2 in Fig. 10(A). As in Fig. 10(B), a layout in which the test image 1301 and the enlarged images 1321, 1331 are arranged in reverse can also be realized.

[0118] 13, display items 1311 (1311a, 1311b) are displayed in an overlapping manner. Display item 1311 indicates the position where an abnormality was detected in inspection image 1201. Enlarged image 1321 is an enlarged image of an area (normal image) in the reference image that includes the position indicated by display item 1311. Enlarged image 1331 is an enlarged image of an area (abnormal image) in inspection image 1301 that includes the position indicated by display item 1311. Enlarged image 1321 and enlarged image 1331 are displayed at the same enlargement ratio (magnification).

[0119] In this example, two abnormalities corresponding to display items 1311a and 1311b are detected, and corresponding enlarged images 1321 and 1331 are displayed in the test result screen SC4. A scroll bar 1342 is used to switch between pages in which abnormalities are detected (determined as NG). As pages are switched, the test result screen SC4 is updated so that enlarged images 1321 and 1331 corresponding to the abnormalities contained in each page are displayed. The display item 1311 and the enlarged images 1321 and 1331 are associated by the type of line (dashed line, dotted line, etc.), but the association is not limited to this and may also be made by color, for example.

[0120] Button 1341 is a button for ending the quality inspection of the printed matter. When the user presses button 1341 after checking the inspection results using the inspection result screen SC4, inspection control unit 205 ends the quality inspection of the printed matter.

[0121] <Display control of test result screen> In this embodiment, the process of determining the display orientation of the inspection image, which is executed by the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) when displaying the inspection result screen SC4, is realized in the same manner as the process of determining the display orientation of the reference image in the first embodiment ( FIG. 11 ). The above-described explanation of the process of determining the display orientation of the reference image becomes an explanation of the inspection result screen SC4 by replacing "reference image" with "inspection image," "inspection setting screen SC2" with "inspection result screen SC4," and "operation object" with "enlarged image."

[0122] As described above, in the image forming system 100 of this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 30 forms an image on a sheet. The inspection apparatus 50 inspects the printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed matter including the sheet and the image formed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus 30. If an abnormal image is found in the inspection results of the image inspection by the inspection apparatus 50, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) of the control apparatus 40 displays an inspection result confirmation screen (inspection result screen SC4) on the display device 21. The inspection result confirmation screen includes a first display area that displays the inspection image and a second display area that displays an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image. At this time, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) determines the arrangement of the first and second display areas on the inspection result screen SC4 (the display direction of the inspection image) depending on the size of the inspection image. For example, when the size of the inspection image is long, the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the sheet transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen (i.e., display the inspection image horizontally).

[0123] By this display control, when the size of the inspection image is long, it is possible to display the inspection image larger in the inspection result screen SC4. This makes it possible to easily check the position of the abnormality (abnormal image) corresponding to the enlarged images 1321, 1331 in the inspection result screen SC4. In this way, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform display control on the inspection result screen SC4 so that the user can more easily check the inspection results.

[0124] In the present embodiment, display control of the inspection setting screen SC4 in the image forming system 100 is performed by the CPU 201 (inspection control unit 205) of the control device 40, but it may also be performed by the inspection device 50. That is, the CPU 301 (setting unit 303) of the inspection device 50 may function as display control means. In that case, an input device and a display device (display) may be provided in the inspection device 50, or the operation unit 20 (display device 21 and input device 22) of the image forming system 100 may be used by the CPU 301 (setting unit 303).

[0125] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0126] The disclosure of this specification includes the following image forming system and inspection device. (Item 1) An image forming system, comprising: an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet; an inspection device that inspects a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading a printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming device; a display control means for displaying on a display device a setting screen including a first display area for displaying a reference image that serves as a reference for image inspection by the inspection device, and a second display area for displaying operation objects for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection; the display control means determines an arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the setting screen in accordance with the size of the reference image. An image forming system comprising: (Item 2) When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a horizontal direction of the setting screen. 2. The image forming system according to item 1, (Item 3) When the size of the reference image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area to display the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen. 3. The image forming system according to item 2, (Item 4) When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching, in accordance with the arrangement of the operation object within the setting screen, whether to display the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen or so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen. 2. The image forming system according to item 1, (Item 5) When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen within the setting screen, the display control means displays the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen. 5. The image forming system according to item 4. (Item 6) when the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, and if a layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen is not set within the setting screen, the display control means displays the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen. 6. The image forming system according to item 4 or 5, (Item 7) further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the setting screen, The receiving means A first layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen within the setting screen, and a second layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the setting screen within the setting screen can be accepted. 7. The image forming system according to any one of items 4 to 6, (Item 8) When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means If the first layout is set, the reference image is displayed so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a vertical direction of the setting screen; If the second layout is set, the reference image is displayed so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen. 8. The image forming system according to item 7, (Item 9) the display control means displays the entire reference image on the setting screen in such a way that a display size of the entire reference image is maximized when the entire reference image is displayed in the determined arrangement of the first display area and the second display area. 9. The image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein: (Item 10) the operation object is configured to receive at least one of a setting of an inspection content for the reference image and a setting of an inspection area where the image inspection is to be performed. 10. The image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 9, (Item 11) An image forming system, comprising: an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet; an inspection device that inspects a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading a printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming device; a display control means for displaying a confirmation screen of the inspection result on a display device, the confirmation screen including a first display area for displaying the inspection image when an abnormal image is found in the inspection result as a result of the image inspection by the inspection device, and a second display area for displaying an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image; the display control means determines an arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the confirmation screen according to a size of the inspection image. An image forming system comprising: (Item 12) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a horizontal direction of the confirmation screen. Item 12. The image forming system according to item 11. (Item 13) When the size of the inspection image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the confirmation screen. Item 13. The image forming system according to item 12. (Item 14) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching, depending on the arrangement of the enlarged image within the confirmation screen, whether to display the inspection image so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned horizontally on the confirmation screen or so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned vertically on the confirmation screen. Item 12. The image forming system according to item 11. (Item 15) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the confirmation screen. 15. The image forming system according to item 14. (Item 16) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, if a layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen is not set, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen. 16. The image forming system according to item 14 or 15. (Item 17) further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the confirmation screen; The accepting means is capable of accepting a first layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, and a second layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the confirmation screen. 17. The image forming system according to any one of items 14 to 16, (Item 18) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means If the first layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the confirmation screen; If the second layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen. 18. The image forming system according to item 17, (Item 19) the display control means displays the entire inspection image on the confirmation screen in such a way that the display size of the entire inspection image is maximized when it is displayed in the determined arrangement of the first display area and the second display area. 19. The image forming system according to any one of items 11 to 18, (Item 20) the enlarged image is displayed on the confirmation screen together with an enlarged image of a corresponding region in a reference image that serves as a reference for the image inspection. 20. The image forming system according to any one of items 11 to 19, (Item 21) An inspection device that inspects an image formed on a sheet, A display means; a display control means for causing the display means to display a setting screen, The setting screen displays a screen including a first display area that displays a reference image that serves as a reference for the image inspection, and a second display area that displays an operation object for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection, When a sheet having a first length in the conveying direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a first state, and when a sheet having a second length in the conveying direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a second state; the first length is greater than the second length; In the first state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side horizontally, and in the second state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side vertically. An inspection device characterized by: (Item 22) When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that a side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen. 22. The inspection device according to item 21, (Item 23) When the size of the reference image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds the predetermined length, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen. 23. The inspection device according to item 22, (Item 24) when the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, on the setting screen, switching is performed depending on the arrangement of the operation object within the setting screen between displaying the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned along the horizontal direction of the setting screen and displaying the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the setting screen. 22. The inspection device according to item 21, (Item 25) When the size of the reference image is a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in the setting screen in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen. 25. The inspection device according to item 24, (Item 26) When the size of the reference image is a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in a conveying direction exceeds the predetermined length, if a layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in a horizontal direction of the setting screen is not set in the setting screen, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that a side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen. 26. The inspection device according to item 24 or 25, (Item 27) further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the setting screen, The receiving means A first layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen within the setting screen, and a second layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the setting screen within the setting screen can be accepted. 27. The inspection device according to any one of items 24 to 26. (Item 28) When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, If the first layout is set, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen; When the second layout is set, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen. 28. The inspection device according to item 27, (Item 29) the entire reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the display size of the entire reference image is maximized when displayed; 29. The inspection device according to any one of items 21 to 28, (Item 30) the operation object is configured to receive at least one of a setting of an inspection content for the reference image and a setting of an inspection area where the image inspection is to be performed. 30. The inspection device according to any one of items 21 to 29, (Item 31) Further, an inspection means is provided for performing the image inspection based on an inspection image obtained by reading the sheet and the image formed on the sheet. 31. The inspection device according to any one of items 21 to 30, (Item 32) An inspection device for inspecting an image formed on a sheet, an inspection means for inspecting a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet; a display control means for displaying a confirmation screen of the inspection result on the display means, the confirmation screen including a first display area for displaying the inspection image when an abnormal image is found in the inspection result as a result of the image inspection by the inspection means, and a second display area for displaying an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image; the display control means determines an arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the confirmation screen according to a size of the inspection image. An inspection device characterized by: (Item 33) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a horizontal direction of the confirmation screen. 33. The inspection device according to item 32, characterized in that (Item 34) When the size of the inspection image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the confirmation screen. Item 34. The inspection device according to item 33. (Item 35) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching, depending on the arrangement of the enlarged image within the confirmation screen, whether to display the inspection image so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned horizontally on the confirmation screen or so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned vertically on the confirmation screen. 33. The inspection device according to item 32, characterized in that (Item 36) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the confirmation screen. 36. The inspection device according to item 35, (Item 37) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, if a layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen is not set, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen. 37. The inspection device according to item 35 or 36, (Item 38) further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the confirmation screen; The accepting means is capable of accepting a first layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, and a second layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the confirmation screen. 38. The inspection device according to any one of items 35 to 37, (Item 39) When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means If the first layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the confirmation screen; If the second layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen. Item 39. The inspection device according to item 38, characterized in that (Item 40) the display control means displays the entire inspection image on the confirmation screen in such a way that the display size of the entire inspection image is maximized when it is displayed in the determined arrangement of the first display area and the second display area. 40. The inspection device according to any one of items 32 to 39. (Item 41) the enlarged image is displayed on the confirmation screen together with an enlarged image of a corresponding region in a reference image that serves as a reference for the image inspection. 41. The inspection device according to any one of items 32 to 40.

[0127] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 100: Image forming system, 20: Operation unit, 30: Image forming device, 40: Control device, 50: Inspection device, 60: Loading device, 201: CPU, 205: Inspection control unit, 301: CPU

Claims

1. An image forming system, an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet; an inspection device that inspects a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading a printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming device; a display control means for displaying on a display device a setting screen including a first display area for displaying a reference image that serves as a reference for image inspection by the inspection device, and a second display area for displaying operation objects for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection, the display control means determines an arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the setting screen in accordance with a size of the reference image. An image forming system comprising:

2. When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area to display the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a horizontal direction of the setting screen.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1.

3. When the size of the reference image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area to display the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen.

3. The image forming system according to claim 2.

4. When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching, in accordance with the arrangement of the operation object within the setting screen, whether to display the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen or so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1.

5. When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen within the setting screen, the display control means displays the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen.

5. The image forming system according to claim 4.

6. when the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, and if a layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen is not set within the setting screen, the display control means displays the reference image so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen.

6. The image forming system according to claim 5.

7. further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the setting screen, The receiving means a first layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen on the setting screen, and a second layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the setting screen on the setting screen can be accepted; 5. The image forming system according to claim 4.

8. When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means If the first layout is set, the reference image is displayed so that a side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a vertical direction of the setting screen; If the second layout is set, the reference image is displayed so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen.

8. The image forming system according to claim 7,

9. the display control means displays the entire reference image on the setting screen in such a way that a display size of the entire reference image is maximized when the entire reference image is displayed in the determined arrangement of the first display area and the second display area.

9. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is a printer.

10. the operation object is configured to receive at least one of a setting of an inspection content for the reference image and a setting of an inspection area where the image inspection is to be performed.

9. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is a printer.

11. An image forming system, an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet; an inspection device that inspects a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading a printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet by the image forming device; a display control means for displaying a confirmation screen of the inspection result on a display device, the confirmation screen including a first display area for displaying the inspection image when an abnormal image is found in the inspection result as a result of the image inspection by the inspection device, and a second display area for displaying an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image; the display control means determines an arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the confirmation screen in accordance with a size of the inspection image. An image forming system comprising:

12. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a horizontal direction of the confirmation screen.

12. The image forming system according to claim 11.

13. When the size of the inspection image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the confirmation screen.

13. The image forming system according to claim 12.

14. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching, depending on the arrangement of the enlarged image within the confirmation screen, whether to display the inspection image so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned horizontally on the confirmation screen or so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned vertically on the confirmation screen.

12. The image forming system according to claim 11.

15. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the confirmation screen.

15. The image forming system according to claim 14.

16. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, if a layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen is not set, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen.

16. The image forming system according to claim 15.

17. further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the confirmation screen; the accepting means is capable of accepting a first layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, and a second layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the confirmation screen.

15. The image forming system according to claim 14.

18. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means If the first layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the confirmation screen; If the second layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen.

18. The image forming system according to claim 17.

19. the display control means displays the entire inspection image on the confirmation screen in such a way that a display size of the entire inspection image is maximized when the entire inspection image is displayed in the determined arrangement of the first display area and the second display area.

19. The image forming system according to claim 11, wherein the image forming system includes: a first image forming unit;

20. the enlarged image is displayed on the confirmation screen together with an enlarged image of a corresponding region in a reference image that serves as a reference for the image inspection.

19. The image forming system according to claim 11, wherein the image forming system includes: a first image forming unit;

21. An inspection device that inspects an image formed on a sheet, A display means; a display control means for causing the display means to display a setting screen, the setting screen displays a screen including a first display area that displays a reference image that serves as a reference for the image inspection, and a second display area that displays an operation object for accepting inspection settings for the image inspection, When a sheet having a first length in the conveying direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a first state, and when a sheet having a second length in the conveying direction is read, the first display area and the second display area are displayed in a second state; the first length is greater than the second length; In the first state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side horizontally, and in the second state, the first display area and the second display area are displayed side by side vertically. An inspection device characterized by:

22. When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that a side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen.

22. The inspection device according to claim 21.

23. When the size of the reference image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds the predetermined length, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen.

23. The inspection device according to claim 22.

24. When the size of the reference image is a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display of the reference image on the setting screen is switched between displaying the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned along the horizontal direction of the setting screen and displaying the reference image so that the side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the setting screen, depending on the arrangement of the operation object on the setting screen.

22. The inspection device according to claim 21.

25. When the size of the reference image is a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in the setting screen in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen.

25. The inspection device according to claim 24.

26. When the size of the reference image is a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in a conveying direction exceeds the predetermined length, if a layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in a horizontal direction of the setting screen is not set in the setting screen, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that a side of the reference image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen.

26. The inspection device according to claim 25.

27. further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the setting screen, The receiving means a first layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the setting screen on the setting screen, and a second layout in which the reference image and the operation object are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the setting screen on the setting screen can be accepted; 25. The inspection device according to claim 24.

28. When the size of the reference image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, If the first layout is set, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the setting screen; When the second layout is set, the reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the side of the reference image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the setting screen.

28. The inspection device according to claim 27.

29. the entire reference image is displayed on the setting screen so that the display size of the entire reference image is maximized when displayed; 29. An inspection device according to any one of claims 21 to 28.

30. the operation object is configured to receive at least one of a setting of an inspection content for the reference image and a setting of an inspection area where the image inspection is to be performed.

29. An inspection device according to any one of claims 21 to 28.

31. Further, an inspection means is provided for performing the image inspection based on an inspection image obtained by reading the sheet and the image formed on the sheet.

29. An inspection device according to any one of claims 21 to 28.

32. An inspection device for inspecting an image formed on a sheet, an inspection means for inspecting a printed matter based on an inspection image obtained by reading the printed matter including a sheet and an image formed on the sheet; a display control means for displaying a confirmation screen of the inspection result on the display means, the confirmation screen including a first display area for displaying the inspection image when an abnormal image is found in the inspection result as a result of the image inspection by the inspection means, and a second display area for displaying an enlarged image of the abnormal image in the inspection image; the display control means determines an arrangement of the first display area and the second display area on the confirmation screen in accordance with a size of the inspection image. An inspection device characterized by:

33. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with a horizontal direction of the confirmation screen.

33. The inspection device of claim 32.

34. When the size of the inspection image is not a size corresponding to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, the display control means determines the layout of the first display area and the second display area to display the inspection image so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the confirmation screen.

34. The inspection device of claim 33.

35. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means determines the arrangement of the first display area and the second display area by switching, depending on the arrangement of the enlarged image within the confirmation screen, whether to display the inspection image so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned horizontally on the confirmation screen or so that the sides of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction are aligned vertically on the confirmation screen.

33. The inspection device of claim 32.

36. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds a predetermined length, if a layout is set in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the confirmation screen.

36. The inspection device of claim 35.

37. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the transport direction exceeds the predetermined length, if a layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen is not set, the display control means displays the inspection image so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen.

37. The inspection device of claim 36.

38. further comprising a receiving means for receiving a setting of the layout of the confirmation screen; the accepting means is capable of accepting a first layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen, and a second layout in which the inspection image and the enlarged image are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction of the confirmation screen.

36. The inspection device of claim 35.

39. When the size of the inspection image corresponds to a sheet whose length in the conveying direction exceeds a predetermined length, the display control means If the first layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that a side of the inspection image parallel to the conveying direction is aligned along the vertical direction of the confirmation screen; If the second layout is set, the inspection image is displayed so that the side of the inspection image parallel to the transport direction is aligned with the horizontal direction of the confirmation screen.

39. The inspection device of claim 38.

40. the display control means displays the entire inspection image on the confirmation screen in such a way that a display size of the entire inspection image is maximized when the entire inspection image is displayed in the determined arrangement of the first display area and the second display area.

40. An inspection device according to any one of claims 32 to 39.

41. the enlarged image is displayed on the confirmation screen together with an enlarged image of a corresponding region in a reference image that serves as a reference for the image inspection.

40. An inspection device according to any one of claims 32 to 39.

Images