Inspection device, its control method, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a novel mechanism for assisting, for example, in setting up inspection for printed materials. [Solution] This inspection device acquires a page-by-page reference image corresponding to the printed material and sets the inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image. In this setting, for a matching inspection that checks whether the information readable from the printed image matches among multiple inspection areas, a first area is set as the inspection area on the reference image of the first page according to user operation. In addition, in this setting, a second area is set as the inspection area to match the first area on the reference image of the second page, which is a different page from the first page, according to user operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection device, a control method thereof, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inspections (product inspections) to check whether printed matter is correctly printed have been performed manually. In recent years, however, devices that automatically perform product inspections as post-processing of printing machines have been used. In such inspection devices, inspections are performed on variable area portions (variable data) such as character strings and barcodes in variable printing. For example, there are data readability inspections that check whether character strings and barcodes can be read, and data collation inspections that collate the read results of character strings and barcodes with correct answers. Hereinafter, data readability inspections and data collation inspections are referred to as data inspections. In addition, one of the data inspections is a consistency inspection.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, a method for consistency inspection that checks whether the read results of data inspection areas set on the front and back surfaces match has been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the above-mentioned conventional technology has the following problems. The above-mentioned conventional technology can only check for matches between areas on the front and back surfaces, and therefore cannot check for matches between areas on distant surfaces or multiple surfaces. It is limited to deliverables that have data to be matched on both the front and back surfaces, and therefore has the problem of not being able to check for matches between a wide range of deliverables. More specifically, the above-mentioned conventional technology cannot recognize combinations of areas on distant surfaces or multiple surfaces as targets for match checking. In addition, having a computer search for targets for match checking across the entire area of ​​print data increases the processing load and is not practical from the standpoint of inspection setting performance. On the other hand, if it is not possible to suitably perform match checking between areas on distant surfaces or multiple surfaces using a computer, it will be necessary to perform the inspection manually. In that case, a great deal of time will be spent on the inspection, and furthermore, the inspection quality will decrease, increasing the possibility of missing abnormal prints. If abnormal prints are missed and printing continues, consumables (resources) such as paper and ink will be wasted.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of at least one of the above-mentioned problems, and provides a novel mechanism for assisting in the inspection settings of printed materials. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to, for example, an inspection device comprising: acquisition means for acquiring page-level reference images corresponding to printed material; and setting means for setting inspection settings for the printed material via the page-level reference images, wherein the setting means, for a matching inspection that checks whether information readable from a printed image matches among a plurality of inspection areas, sets a first area as an inspection area on the reference image of the first page according to user operation, and sets a second area as an inspection area to match the first area on the reference image of a second page, which is a different page from the first page, according to user operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, for example, a novel mechanism can be provided to assist in setting up the inspection of printed materials. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an inspection system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device, inspection device, and printing device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] Block diagram showing the software configuration according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of a job properties screen according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] Flowchart for testing an information processing device according to one embodiment [Figure 6] Flowchart for registering a reference image in an inspection device according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the UI screen for inspection settings according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the UI screen for setting the matching inspection area according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] Flowchart of the inspection operation of an inspection device according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] Operation flowchart of the consistency inspection of the inspection device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure showing an example of retaining region information according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of the UI screen for inspection settings according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] A diagram showing an example of the UI screen for inspection settings according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims. While the embodiments describe multiple features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any way. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, identical or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0011] In the following description, the image forming apparatus may also be referred to as a multifunction printer, multifunction peripheral, or MFP. Furthermore, the process of forming an image on paper (sheets) may be referred to as printing. Unless otherwise specified, the present invention can also be applied to inspection devices connected and processed via networks such as LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network), as long as the functions of the present invention are realized. In other words, the system configuration with various terminals described in the following embodiments is merely an example, and it goes without saying that there are various configurations depending on the application and purpose.

[0012] <First Embodiment> <Configuration of the inspection system> The following describes a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the inspection system including the inspection apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. This inspection system consists of an image forming apparatus 100, an inspection unit 110, a large-capacity stacker 120, a client PC 130, an information processing apparatus 140, and an inspection apparatus 150. Each apparatus is connected to the others so as to be able to communicate with each other via a network 160 and a communication cable 170.

[0013] The image forming apparatus 100 includes a UI unit 101, a paper feed deck 102, and a paper feed deck 103. Further, an optional deck 104 consisting of three-stage paper feed decks is connected to the image forming apparatus 100. Recording sheets such as printing paper (hereinafter also referred to as paper, sheet, or recording medium) can be set on each deck. The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output according to various input data, for example, print data sent from a client PC 130 or an information processing apparatus 140. The image forming apparatus 100 further includes an inspection unit 110 and a large-capacity stacker 120, and is connected to the inspection unit 110 and the large-capacity stacker 120 via a communication cable which is an internal bus.

[0014] The inspection unit 110 receives the printed matter output from the image forming apparatus 100, and acquires image data for inspecting whether there is an abnormal image in the received printed matter. Here, an abnormal image is one that degrades the quality of the printed matter. For example, it is a round abnormal image (dot) generated by the adhesion of a coloring material to an unintended location during printing, a color omission generated by insufficient adhesion of the coloring material to an intended location, or a linear abnormal image (streak). The acquired image data is transferred to an inspection apparatus 150 described later via a communication cable 170, and an inspection is performed on the inspection apparatus 150 to check whether there is an abnormal image in the printed matter, and the inspection result is acquired from the inspection apparatus 150.

[0015] The large-capacity stacker 120 includes a main tray and a top tray, and thousands of sheets of paper can be stacked on the main tray at once. It can receive the output sheets inspected by the inspection unit 110 and also switch the paper discharge destination based on the inspection result of the inspection unit 110.

[0016] The image forming apparatus 100 is communicably connected to a client PC 130, an information processing apparatus 140, and an inspection apparatus 150 via a network 160. In this embodiment, the inspection is performed by the inspection apparatus 150, but it is not intended to limit the present invention, and a configuration such as an in-line inspection machine that consistently performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge may also be used.

[0017] Print jobs are generated on the client PC 130, transmitted to the information processing device 140 via the network 160, and managed by the information processing device 140. Then, the print jobs are transmitted from the information processing device 140 to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network 160, and the image forming apparatus 100 performs the printing process on the paper. Alternatively, the print jobs may be generated and managed in the information processing device 140, transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network 160, and managed by the image forming apparatus 100.

[0018] Furthermore, the client PC 130, information processing device 140, and inspection device 150 may be connected to the image forming apparatus 100 via a communication cable. In other words, the connection configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, information processing device 140, and client PC 130 shown in this embodiment is just one example, and it goes without saying that there are various other connection configurations besides those shown in this embodiment. In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 may also be connected to a stapler, folding machine, bookbinding machine, etc., in addition to the inspection unit 110 and stacker 120.

[0019] <Configuration of each device> Referring to Figure 2, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, inspection unit 110, large-capacity stacker 120, client PC 130, information processing device 140, and inspection device 150 of this embodiment will be described. Here, only the configurations relevant to the present invention will be described, and each device is not composed of only the devices shown in Figure 2.

[0020] (Client PC) The client PC 130 is a personal computer (PC) for generating print jobs and sending them to the information processing device 140 via the network 160. The client PC 130 comprises a control unit 230 and a UI unit 235. The control unit 230 comprises a CPU 231, RAM 232, ROM 233, and a network interface (hereinafter abbreviated as NW I / F) 234.

[0021] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 231 controls and performs calculations in various parts of the client PC 130 via the internal bus 273, and executes programs stored in ROM 233 and loaded into RAM 232. RAM (Ramdom Access Memory) 232 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 231 and is used as the CPU 231's work area or other temporary data storage area. ROM 233 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during client PC operation. The NW I / F 234 sends and receives data with the information processing device 140 via the network 160. The UI unit 235 is a device that can input various setting values ​​or specified values, for example, a keyboard, mouse, display, and other input / output devices.

[0022] (Information processing device) The information processing device 140 performs RIP processing on print data and document data and generates bitmap images for printing by the image forming apparatus 100. It also controls printing and manages print jobs for the image forming apparatus 100. The information processing device 140 comprises a control unit 240 and a UI unit 246. The control unit 240 comprises a CPU 241, RAM 242, ROM 243, NW I / F 244, image processing unit 245, and video I / F 247.

[0023] The CPU 241 controls and performs calculations in various parts of the information processing unit 140 via the internal bus 274, and executes programs stored in ROM 243 and loaded into RAM 242. RAM 242 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 241 and is used as the CPU 241's work area or other temporary data storage area. ROM 243 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the information processing unit.

[0024] NW I / F 244 communicates with the client PC 130, the image forming apparatus 100, and the inspection apparatus 150 via the network 160. Alternatively, the inspection apparatus 150 may have an NW I / F 255, and the information processing device 140 may communicate with the NW I / F 255 and the inspection apparatus 150 via the NW I / F 244. For example, consider the case where the RIP image used for printing by the image forming apparatus 100 is used as the reference image. Here, the reference image is a correct image used for comparison with a scanned image of the printed material when inspecting the printed material. The reference image is also an image displayed on the settings screen when setting the inspection settings, and the inspection area can be set on the reference image displayed on the settings screen. In this case, the reference image may be transmitted to the inspection apparatus 150 via the communication I / F 214, or it may be transmitted to the inspection apparatus 150 from the NW I / F 255 equipped on the inspection apparatus 150 via NW I / F 207 and NW I / F 234. The image processing unit 245 performs RIP processing on the print data.

[0025] The UI unit 246 is a device that consists of, for example, a keyboard, mouse, display, and other input / output devices, and can input various setting values ​​or specified values. The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data, for example, print data sent from a client PC 130 or an information processing device 140.

[0026] (Image forming apparatus) The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to the UI unit 101 and the paper feed deck 260. The image forming apparatus 100 also includes a control unit 200 and a printer unit 209. The control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, RAM 202, ROM 203, accessory I / F unit 204, engine I / F unit 205, paper feed deck I / F unit 206, network I / F unit 207, image processing unit 208, and video I / F 217. It is also connected to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F unit 205.

[0027] The CPU 201 controls and performs calculations in various parts of the image forming apparatus 100 via the internal bus (system bus) 270. The CPU 201 is responsible for executing programs stored in the ROM 203 and loaded into the RAM 202. The RAM 202 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 201 and is used as the CPU 201's work area or other temporary data storage area. The RAM 202 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the printing apparatus. The ROM 203 stores program data executed by the CPU 201 at startup, setting data for the control unit 200, etc.

[0028] Accessory I / F 204 connects to Accessory I / F 215 and Accessory I / F 224 via cable 280. That is, the image forming apparatus 100 communicates with the inspection unit 110 and the large-capacity stacker 120 via Accessory I / F 204, 215, and 224. Engine I / F 205 is responsible for communication and control with the printer unit 209. Paper feed deck I / F 206 is responsible for communication and control with the paper feed deck 260. Paper feed deck 260 is a collective term for the paper feed decks 102, 103, and optional deck 104 as a hardware configuration. UI unit 101 is a user interface for performing all operations of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0029] NW I / F 207 is connected to NW I / F 244 of the information processing device 140 via network 160 and manages communication between the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100. In this example, the interfaces connected to internal buses 270 and 160 are directly connected, but the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100 may be connected by a network, for example, and the connection method is not limited. Video I / F 217 is connected to video I / F 247 via video cable 180 and manages the communication of image data between the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100. The connection interface between the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100 may be a combined form of the functions of NW I / F 244 and video I / F 247. Also, the connection interface between the image forming apparatus 100 and the information processing device 140 may be a combined form of the functions of NW I / F 207 and video I / F 217.

[0030] The image processing unit 208 performs processing to convert image and document data received from the video cable 180 into print data. The printer unit 209 prints the received binary bitmap data onto a recording sheet using colorants.

[0031] (Inspection unit) The inspection unit 110 controls the transfer of image data acquired by the image reading unit 216 to the inspection device 150, which will be described later, via the communication cable 170. It then acquires the inspection results from the inspection device 150 and transmits them to the image forming apparatus 100 and the large-capacity stacker 120. The inspection unit 110 includes a control unit 210. The control unit 210 includes a CPU 211, RAM 212, ROM 213, communication I / F 214, accessory I / F 215, and the image reading unit 216.

[0032] The CPU 211 controls and performs calculations in various parts of the inspection unit 110 via an internal bus, and executes programs stored in the ROM 213 and loaded into the RAM 212. The RAM 212 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed from the CPU 211 and is used as the CPU 211's work area or other temporary data storage area. The ROM 213 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during inspection device operation. The communication I / F 214 communicates with the inspection device 150 via the communication cable 170 and transmits data such as scanned images and inspection results read by the image reading unit 216. The accessory I / F 215 connects to the accessory I / F units 204 and 224 via the cable 280. The image reading unit 216 is an image reading unit that reads printed materials transported from the image forming apparatus 100.

[0033] (Large capacity stacker) The high-capacity stacker 120 comprises a control unit 220 and a paper output unit 225. The control unit 220 comprises a CPU 221, RAM 222, ROM 223, and accessory I / F 224. The CPU 221 controls and performs calculations in each part of the high-capacity stacker 120 via an internal bus 272, and executes programs stored in ROM 223 and loaded into RAM 222. RAM 222 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed from the CPU 221 and is used as the CPU 221's work area or other temporary data storage area. ROM 223 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during inspection device operation. The paper output unit 225 controls paper output to the main tray and top tray, and monitors and controls the loading status of the main tray and top tray, respectively. The high-capacity stacker 120 may also switch the paper output destination based on the inspection results for printed materials transported from the inspection unit 110. For example, if the output destination is switched based on the inspection results for whether there are any defects in the printed material, sheets without defects are output to the normal stack, while sheets with defects are output to the top tray. Alternatively, the system may be designed to output to the same destination regardless of the inspection results.

[0034] (Inspection device) The inspection device 150 is a device for inspecting scanned images of printed materials obtained by the inspection unit 110. The inspection device 150 comprises a control unit 250 and a UI unit 257. The control unit 250 comprises a CPU 251, RAM 252, ROM 253, communication I / F 254, network I / F 255, and inspection processing unit 256. In this embodiment, the inspection device 150 is described in a form that does not include a printing device or a reading device, but it may be configured to be integrated with such devices. For example, the inspection device 150 may be configured to be integrated with at least one of the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection unit 110.

[0035] The CPU 251 controls and performs calculations in various parts of the inspection device 150 via the internal bus 275, and executes programs stored in ROM 253 and loaded into RAM 252. RAM 252 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed from the CPU 251 and is used as the CPU 251's work area or other temporary data storage area. ROM 253 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during inspection device operation. The communication I / F 254 communicates with the inspection unit 110 via the communication cable 170 and transmits data such as scanned images and inspection results read by the image reading unit 216. The network I / F 255 sends and receives data with the client PC 130, image forming apparatus 100, and inspection device 150 via the network 160. The inspection processing unit 256 checks whether there are any abnormalities in the printed material. The UI unit 257 is an example of a display unit, such as a liquid crystal display connected to the inspection device, which accepts user input to the inspection device and displays the status of the inspection device and inspection results.

[0036] <Software Configuration> Referring to Figure 3, the software configuration of each device according to this embodiment will be described. Here, only the functional configurations related to the present invention will be described, and each device is not necessarily composed of only the functional configurations shown in Figure 3.

[0037] (Client PC) The program for the client PC 130 is stored in ROM 233, read into RAM 232, and executed by CPU 231. The processing functions of CPU 231 include a display control unit 2301 and a data control unit 2302.

[0038] The display control unit 2301 controls the display of the screen operated by the user on the UI unit 235. Furthermore, when the user sets up a print job via the UI unit 235, the display control unit 2301 saves the print setting information to the RAM 232, and when printing is executed, it transmits the print execution to the data control unit 2302. Print setting information includes settings such as paper size, single-sided printing, double-sided printing, etc. Other settings such as face-up / face-down and forward / reverse order may also be included. The data control unit 2302 transmits the print job to the information processing device 140 via the NW I / F 234.

[0039] (Information processing device) The program for the information processing device 140 is stored in the ROM 243, read into the RAM 242, and executed by the CPU 241. The processing functions of the CPU 241 include a display control unit 2401, an image processing control unit 2402, and a data control unit 2403.

[0040] The display control unit 2401 controls the display of the screen operated by the user to the UI unit 246. In addition, when the user sets up a print job via the UI unit 246, the display control unit 2401 saves the print setting information to the RAM 242, and when printing is executed, it transmits the execution of the print job to the data control unit 2403.

[0041] The image processing control unit 2402 controls the image processing unit 245. When it receives a print order, the image processing control unit 2402 performs RIP processing to convert print data or document data into bitmap image data based on the print setting information stored in RAM 242. Specifically, in the case of RIP processing for generating a reference image, for example, it converts a resolution of 600 dpi to 300 dpi to generate an image. On the other hand, in the case of RIP processing for print data, it generates a 600 dpi image without reducing the resolution. The image processing control unit 2402 also assigns a unique image ID to the RIP images in the order they will be printed. For example, the first RIP image to be printed will be assigned image ID=1, the second RIP image to be printed will be assigned image ID=2, and so on.

[0042] The data control unit 2403 controls the reception of print jobs from the client PC 130 and their transmission to the image forming apparatus 100. The data control unit 2403 also receives print jobs from the client PC 130 via the NW I / F 244 and stores them in RAM 242. Furthermore, the data control unit 2403 transmits print job start notifications, print setting information, and RIP images to the image forming apparatus 100 via the NW I / F 244 and video I / F 247. Upon receiving a notification from the image forming apparatus 100 that the reference image registration is complete, the data control unit 2403 then transmits the print job. The data control unit 2403 also generates reference image parameters for each page according to the print setting information for reference image generation. These reference image parameters include information such as the inspection job ID, image ID, and paper size. The reference image parameters also include information on whether the corresponding sheet is the final sheet of the job. The data control unit 2403 transmits the generated reference image parameters to the image forming apparatus 100.

[0043] (Image forming apparatus) The program for the image forming apparatus 100 is stored in ROM 203, read into RAM 202, and executed by CPU 201. The processing functions of CPU 201 include a display control unit 2001, a data control unit 2002, an image processing control unit 2003, a paper feed control unit 2004, a printing control unit 2005, and an accessory control unit 2006.

[0044] The display control unit 2001 displays a screen for user operation to the UI unit 101. Furthermore, when the user sets up additional print jobs via the UI unit 101, the display control unit 2001 saves the print setting information to the RAM 202 in addition to the settings in the information processing device 140. Print job settings in the image forming apparatus 100 include settings for inserting interleaving paper such as job divider paper and copy divider paper, as well as paper settings. Additionally, when printing is paused or resumed, the display control unit 2001 communicates the execution of the print job to the data control unit 2002.

[0045] The data control unit 2002 controls the reception of print jobs and notifications from the information processing device 140, and their transmission to the inspection device 150. Upon receiving a print job start notification from the information processing device 140, the data control unit 2002 stores the print setting information and RIP image received via the NW I / F 207 and video I / F 217 in the RAM 202. In the case of a reference image registration job, the RIP image and reference image parameters generated and transmitted by the data control unit 2403 of the information processing device 140 are transmitted to the inspection device 150 via the NW I / F 207. When the inspection device 150 completes the generation of the reference image and receives a reference image registration completion notification, it sends a registration completion notification to the information processing device 140. Furthermore, in this print job, it transmits image assignment information, which will be described later. It also transmits a notification to start an inspection job. The reference image parameters consist of information based on the print setting information. On the other hand, the image assignment information includes, in addition to information such as single-sided / double-sided printing based on the print settings, rotation and shift amounts, print side (front / back), and sheet number, which are determined by the print control unit 2005 when printing is actually performed on the paper. Examples of this image assignment information may include, but are not limited to, other information.

[0046] The image processing control unit 2003 controls the image processing unit 208. It acquires print processing information and RIP images stored in RAM 202 and performs image processing to convert them into print data. Image processing to convert to print data includes, for example, rasterizing the PDL data to convert it into multi-level bitmap data, and then performing screen processing to convert it into binary bitmap data. The binary bitmap data obtained here is transmitted to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F unit 205.

[0047] The paper feed control unit 2004 controls the paper feed deck 260 via the paper feed interface 206. Based on the print processing information stored in the RAM 202, it transports paper from the paper feed deck 260 to the printer unit 209. The print control unit 2005 controls the printer unit 209 via the engine interface 205. The print control unit 2005 receives bitmap data from the image processing control unit 2003 and issues instructions to the printer unit 209 for the paper that the paper feed control unit 2004 has instructed to transport based on the print processing information. Furthermore, when the print control unit 2005 receives a notification from the accessory control unit 2006 (described later) to pause or resume printing, it instructs the printer unit 209 to stop and resume printing based on the notification.

[0048] The accessory control unit 2006 notifies the high-capacity stacker 120 of the paper output destination via the accessory interface 204 based on the print setting information stored in the RAM 202. Furthermore, the accessory control unit 2006 receives a notification of print pause / resumption from the inspection unit 110 and notifies the print control unit 2005.

[0049] (Inspection unit) The program for the inspection unit 110 is stored in the ROM 213, read into the RAM 212, and executed by the CPU 211. The processing functions of the CPU 211 include an image reading control unit 2101, a data control unit 2102, and an accessory control unit 2103.

[0050] The image reading control unit 2101 controls the image reading unit 216. The image reading unit 216 has a shooting function equipped with, for example, a conduct image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CIS) and captures images of paper (hereinafter referred to as scanned images) passing through the inspection unit. Note that the CIS for the image reading unit 216 is just one example of a sensor, and other types of sensors such as CCD image sensors may be used, and the shooting method is not limited.

[0051] The data control unit 2102 transmits the scanned image to the inspection device 150 via the communication interface 214. It also receives the setting information for the inspection operation mode, which is set by the inspection device 150 (described later), and stores it in the RAM 212. Furthermore, it receives the results of the inspection performed by the inspection device 150.

[0052] The accessory control unit 2103 sends control notifications to the image forming apparatus 100 and the high-capacity stacker 120 via the accessory I / F 215, according to the inspection results and inspection operation mode setting information received by the data control unit 2102. If the system switches the paper output destination based on the inspection results, the high-capacity stacker 120 is notified to output printed materials without defects to the main tray of the paper output unit 225, and printed materials with defects to the top tray of the paper output unit 225. In addition, if the system is set to temporarily suspend printing when a certain number of defective printed materials are found consecutively, the accessory control unit 2103 sends a notification to the image forming apparatus 100 to stop printing when that number is reached.

[0053] (Inspection device) The program for the inspection device 150 is stored in ROM 253, read into RAM 252, and executed by CPU 251. The processing functions of CPU 251 include a display control unit 2501, a data control unit 2502, a reference image generation unit 2503, an inspection processing control unit 2504, and a notification unit 2505.

[0054] The display control unit 2501 displays a screen to the UI unit 257. The display control unit 2501 controls the display of inspection results, which are processed by the inspection processing control unit 2504 (described later) and stored in the RAM 252, as well as the display of screens operated by the user. In addition, when the user makes inspection settings using the UI unit 257, the display control unit 2501 saves the inspection setting information to the RAM 252.

[0055] The data control unit 2502 receives RIP images, reference image parameters, and image assignment information from the image forming apparatus 100 via the NW I / F 255 and stores them in the RAM 252. Upon receiving a notification to start an inspection job, it generates a new inspection job and stores it in the RAM 252. The data control unit 2502 also stores scanned images sent via the communication I / F 254 in the RAM 252. Furthermore, the data control unit 2502 notifies the inspection unit 110 of the inspection results from the inspection control unit 2504 and the inspection setting information stored in the RAM 252. Upon receiving a registration completion notification from the reference image generation unit 2503 (described later), the data control unit 2502 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 of the registration completion.

[0056] The reference image generation unit 2503 associates the inspection settings received by the UI unit 257 with a reference image and saves it in the RAM 252. Furthermore, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, it generates a reference image from the RIP image, reference image parameters, and image assignment information stored in the RAM 252, and saves it as the reference image in the RAM 252. It also determines whether it is the final sheet based on the reference image parameters. The inspection processing control unit 2504 controls the inspection processing unit 256.

[0057] Here, we will explain the overview of print image inspection. First, the scanned image stored in RAM252 and the corresponding reference image are read out and inspected by comparison. Specifically, feature points are extracted from both the reference image and the scanned image, and the reference image and the scanned image are aligned based on the extracted feature points. If the difference between the pixel value (luminance value) of the inspected pixel in the aligned scanned image and the pixel value (luminance value) of the comparison target pixel in the reference image is less than or equal to the threshold, the inspected pixel is judged to pass (normal). Note that the threshold will differ for each inspection level. This inspection proceeds for each reference image corresponding to each scanned image. If a print position shift occurs that exceeds a predetermined threshold relative to the reference image during alignment, the position shift inspection will be judged to have failed (abnormal).

[0058] Once all pixels have been inspected, the system determines whether the total number of pixels deemed unacceptable is below the pass threshold, and then determines whether the scanned image is normal. If the total number of pixels deemed unacceptable is below the pass threshold, the scanned image is determined to be normal. If the total number of pixels deemed unacceptable exceeds the pass threshold, the scanned image is determined to be abnormal. Furthermore, the system stores inspection results, such as information on whether there are any abnormalities in the printed material, the type of abnormality detected (e.g., dots or streaks), and the location of the abnormality, in RAM 252. It also determines whether it is the final sheet based on the image assignment information. The system is also responsible for determining and processing the inspection operation mode received by the display control unit 2501.

[0059] Next, an overview of the data inspection will be explained. The inspection processing control unit 2504 first performs the process of extracting data from strings, barcodes, and QR codes (registered trademarks) within the scanned image stored in the RAM 252. This is done using a pre-configured glyph font for optical character recognition (OCR) and a barcode standard, performing OCR processing for characters and decoding processing for barcodes. A glyph font is data that associates glyph images and character codes of characters necessary for OCR during data inspection and the matching inspection described later. A glyph font can be created by scanning glyphs printed on paper, cutting out each character, and having the user input the character code for each cut-out character image. The created glyph font is stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection device 150. Although the method for creating a glyph font in this embodiment is described here, it is not limited to this, and any method that can create data that associates character codes with each character image cut out from a scanned image may be used.

[0060] The data inspection checks whether the text strings and barcodes within the area designated for data inspection are readable. If they are readable, it is judged as a pass; if they are not readable, it is judged as a fail. It is also possible to perform data matching inspection, which compares the extracted data (read text strings and barcodes) with the corresponding data (correct data) in a pre-prepared correct CSV file. Here again, if the data matches, it is judged as a pass; if they do not match, it is judged as a fail. The results of the inspection are stored in RAM252, for example, the results of reading text strings and barcodes from printed materials, the results of matching with correct data, and the position information of the read text and barcodes when displayed in UI257.

[0061] Furthermore, the overview of the matching inspection will be explained. Similar to the data inspection described above, the system extracts text, barcodes, and QR codes (registered trademarks) from the scanned image. In the matching inspection, it is determined whether the data extracted from all areas to be matched matches. If they match, it is judged as a pass; if they do not match, it is judged as a fail. The results of the inspection are stored in RAM 252, for example, the results of text and barcodes read from printed materials, the results of data matching or mismatch, and the position information of the read characters and barcodes when displayed on the UI unit 257. After the completion of the print image inspection, data inspection, and matching inspection described above, the display control unit 2501 instructs the UI unit 257 to display the inspection results stored in RAM 252. The user can recognize the inspection results when they are displayed on the UI unit 257. The notification unit 2505 notifies the inspection unit 110 via the communication I / F 254. It transmits the inspection operation mode and the inspection results from the inspection processing control unit 2504, which are stored in RAM 252, to the inspection unit 110.

[0062] (Large capacity stacker) The program for the large-capacity stacker 120 is stored in ROM 223, read into RAM 222, and executed by CPU 221. The processing functions of CPU 221 include accessory control unit 2201.

[0063] The accessory control unit 2201 controls the paper output unit 225. It receives paper output notifications from the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection unit 110, and outputs the paper to the main tray or top tray of the paper output unit 225 based on the notification content. In addition, to inform that the printed materials have been output without paper jams occurring in the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection unit 110, or the large-capacity stacker 120, it sends an external output notification to the image forming apparatus 100 or the inspection unit 110 when the paper output is complete.

[0064] <Job Settings> Referring to Figure 4, the method for setting up inspection jobs according to this embodiment will be described. The inspection method selection screen 400 is an example of a screen for receiving print job settings from a user on the client PC 130. The display control unit 2301, executed by the CPU 231, displays the settings on the UI unit 235 and receives user input and saves it to the RAM 232. Print jobs generated on the client PC 130 are sent to the information processing device 140 for management.

[0065] If the user selects "ON" for inspection in the inspection mode setting section 402 of the inspection method selection screen 400, the properties are then set. A print job set to "ON" for inspection is referred to as an "inspection job." If "OFF" is selected, for example, items 403 to 405 may be grayed out to prevent user selection. If "OFF" for inspection is selected, the job is treated as a normal print job without inspection. When the Print button 406 is pressed, the print control unit 2005 of the image forming apparatus 100 performs normal printing operations.

[0066] In the inspection setting unit 403, the user selects the area to be inspected and how to set its level. If "Default" is selected, the inspection control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 inspects the entire image at the standard level. If "Preset1" to "Preset10" are selected, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs the inspection based on the pre-specified area and level. The inspection settings for "Preset1" to "Preset10" are stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection device 150, and when the Print button 406 is operated, the reference image generation unit 2503 applies the inspection settings to the reference image.

[0067] If "New Registration" is selected, the user creates a new inspection setting, and the inspection control unit 2504 performs the inspection based on that setting. If "New Registration" is selected, the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 displays the inspection setting screen 700 shown in Figures 7, 12, and 13 on the UI unit 257 once the acceptance of the reference image is complete. A detailed explanation of Figures 7, 12, and 13 will be given later. The user creates a new inspection setting for the reference image, and the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 performs the inspection based on that setting. Note that if "Default" or "Preset1~10" is selected in the inspection setting unit 403 and the Print button 406 is operated, the display control unit 2501 does not display the inspection setting screen 700. When the Print button 406 on the inspection method selection screen 400 is operated by the user, the inspection device 150 registers the reference image without any further operations once the acceptance of the reference image is complete.

[0068] In the inspection operation setting unit 404, the user selects the registration of a reference image and a combination of printing operations for the print job. If "Registration only" is selected, the reference image generation unit 2503 of the inspection device 150 only registers the reference image and sets the inspection settings. If "Printing only" is selected, the printing control unit 2005 of the image forming apparatus 100 prints using the pre-registered reference image, and the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 performs the inspection. If "Registration & Printing" is selected, the "Registration only" operation and the "Printing only" operation described above are performed consecutively.

[0069] If "Scan Inspection" is selected in the Inspection Method Selection Unit 405, the Reference Image Generation Unit 2503 of the Inspection Device 150 uses a scanned image of the printed material as the reference image for inspection. If "RIP Inspection" is selected, the Reference Image Generation Unit 2503 of the Inspection Device 150 sets the RIP image used by the Image Forming Apparatus 100 for printing as the reference image.

[0070] The generation and storage processes of the reference image will be described later using the flowchart in Figure 6. Finally, when the Print button 406 is operated, the display control unit 2301 saves the settings entered in 402-405 to RAM 232. Also, the data control unit 2302, executed by the CPU 231 of the client PC 130, sends a print job to the information processing device 140. The data control unit 2403, executed by the CPU 241 of the information processing device 140, controls the execution of printing and inspection based on the print setting information of the received print job. Details of the printing and inspection operations according to the settings will be described later using Figure 5. When the Close button 401 is operated, the screen is closed without saving the settings of this screen to RAM 232.

[0071] <Job Execution Flow> Referring to Figure 5, the job execution processing procedure in the information processing device 140 according to this embodiment will be explained. The processing described below is achieved, for example, by the CPU 241 of the information processing device 140 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 243 into the RAM 242, and then reading and executing the program code expanded into the RAM 242. The numbers following "S" in the following explanation are step numbers indicating the processing order of each flowchart.

[0072] In S501, the CPU 241, using the data control unit 2403, determines whether the setting value set in the inspection operation setting unit 404 shown in Figure 4 is "print only". If it is set to "print only", proceed to S505; otherwise, proceed to S502.

[0073] In S502, the data control unit 2403 sends a reference image registration job to the image forming apparatus 100. Here, the data control unit 2403 sends the RIP image that will serve as the reference image, various print setting information, etc. Next, in S503, the data control unit 2403 determines whether or not it has received a registration completion notification from the data control unit 2502, which is executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection apparatus 150. If a registration completion notification has been received, the process proceeds to S504; otherwise, it waits.

[0074] In S504, the data control unit 2403 determines whether the setting value set in the inspection operation setting unit 404 shown in Figure 4 is "Register & Print". If "Register & Print" is set (YES in S504), the process proceeds to S505. If "Register Only" is set (NO in S504), the process in this flowchart ends.

[0075] In step S505, the data control unit 2403 sends the main print job for inspection to the image forming apparatus 100. Here, it sends the RIP image and various print setting information to the image forming apparatus 100 for printing on paper, and the processing of this flowchart ends.

[0076] <Registration process for reference image> Referring to Figure 6, the processing procedure of the inspection device 150 when registering the reference image for inspection according to this embodiment will be explained. The processing described below is achieved, for example, by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 253 into the RAM 252, and then reading and executing the program code expanded into the RAM 252. The flow is common to both scan inspection and RIP inspection, but the method of generating the reference image differs depending on whether it is a scan inspection or a RIP inspection.

[0077] In S601, the data control unit 2502, executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150, receives a notification from the image forming apparatus 100 that a reference image registration job has started. Subsequently, in S602, the data control unit 2502 repeats the processes described in S603 and S604 until the reference images for all sheets are stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection device 150.

[0078] In step S603, if the inspection method is scan inspection, the data control unit 2502 receives the image scanned by the image reading unit 216 of the inspection unit 110. If the inspection method is RIP inspection, the data control unit 2502 receives the RIP image and reference image parameters generated by the image processing control unit 2402 of the information processing device 140, and receives print setting information from the image forming apparatus 100. The print setting information may also be received from the information processing device 140 or the client PC 130.

[0079] Next, in S604, the reference image generation unit 2503 registers the image received in S603 as a reference image in RAM 252. Here, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the reference image generation unit 2503 processes the RIP image using the received reference image parameters. Processing the RIP image involves converting it to an image format that matches the scanned image read during inspection (described later), or converting the image size from the paper size and number of pixels included in the reference image parameters. The reference image generation unit 2503 performs this processing using reference image parameters that have an image ID that matches the image ID assigned to the RIP image. The data control unit 2502 saves the print setting information, the processed RIP image, and the reference image parameters in RAM 252. Also, if the inspection method is scan inspection, the reference image generation unit 2503 assigns image IDs to the scanned images received by the data control unit 2502 in the following order: image ID=1 on the front of the first image, image ID=2 on the back of the first image, image ID=3 on the front of the second image, and so on.

[0080] In S605, the process from S602 to S605 is repeated until the reference image generation unit 2503 determines that the registration of reference images for all sheets has been completed. If the inspection method is scan inspection, this is repeated until printing is completed; if the inspection method is RIP inspection, this is repeated until the data control unit 2502 receives notification that it is the last page included in the reference image parameters. Once the reference image generation unit 2503 determines that the registration of all reference images has been completed, the process proceeds to S606, where the data control unit 2502 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 that the registration of reference images is complete, and the process of this flowchart is terminated. Note that if the inspection method is scan inspection, for example, the inspection apparatus 150 may read multiple images for the same page and register the combined result as the reference image.

[0081] <Test Settings> The inspection settings according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7, 12, and 13. Figure 7 is an example of an inspection setting screen 700 that the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 displays to the UI unit 257 for performing inspection settings. The inspection setting screen 700 consists of buttons 701 to 704, 711, 712, 721 to 723, area 705, setting items 731, and setting area 732.

[0082] Button 701 is the reference image change button, used to change the reference image. Button 702 is the inspection area selection button, used by the user to select an already set area. Button 703 is the inspection area deletion button, used by the user to delete the selected area. Button 704 is for rotating the image displayed in area 705.

[0083] Area 705 is the display area for displaying the loaded reference image. If there are multiple sheets to load, the image displayed in area 705 can be switched using button 710.

[0084] Button 711 is the OK button for saving the settings on screen 700. When the OK button 711 is pressed, the reference image generation unit 2503 saves the reference image and inspection settings to RAM 252. Button 712 is the Cancel button for stopping the inspection job without saving the settings on screen 700.

[0085] Button 721 is operated by the user when creating a new print image inspection area. After pressing the button, the user sets the inspection area on the reference image displayed in area 705. Area 706 shows an example of setting the print image inspection area. Button 722 is operated by the user when creating a new data inspection area. Data inspection refers to either character inspection or barcode inspection. After pressing the button, the user sets the inspection area on the reference image displayed in area 705. Area 707 shows an example of setting the character inspection area. Area 708 shows an example of setting the barcode inspection area. The setting of the data inspection area will be explained using Figure 12. Button 723 is operated by the user when creating a new match inspection area. After pressing the button, the user sets the inspection area on the reference image displayed in area 705. Area 709 shows an example of setting the match inspection area and corresponds to the first area. The setting of the match inspection area, which is a feature of the present invention, will be explained in detail using Figure 13.

[0086] In Figure 7, regions 706, 707, 708, and 709 are shown with dotted lines of the same type and color. However, they may be displayed with different line types to distinguish them as regions where different processes are performed. For example, the borders of regions where different processes are performed could be displayed in different colors or with dashed lines. The display color of these borders may also be made selectable by the user.

[0087] In addition to the print image inspection, character inspection, barcode inspection, and matching inspection described above, sequential numbering inspection may also be performed. Sequential numbering inspection checks whether the strings of characters within areas of multiple reference images have a regular pattern. After receiving the inspection area from the user, the system accepts the predetermined rules to be inspected. These predetermined rules include a start number, an end number, an increment / decrement number, and an offset. For example, the increment / decrement number indicates the value of the increment / decrement, and the offset indicates the page interval of the increment / decrement. Of course, other parameters may also be set as predetermined rules.

[0088] Setting item 731 is for positional misalignment inspection, and sets the acceptable amount of misalignment of the print position from the reference image. In this embodiment, an example specified by the user is shown for detecting a misalignment of 2 mm or more. In other words, the value specified by the user here corresponds to the threshold for positional misalignment detection. If a misalignment exceeding the threshold set here is detected, the inspection is judged as NG (abnormal).

[0089] The settings area 732 is a group of UI elements for configuring the currently selected area in area 705. Setting item 733 sets the scope of application for the selected area. If nothing is selected, the selected inspection area will only be placed on the page currently displayed in area 705. If "Same side as current page" is selected, the selected inspection area will be placed on the same side of the sheet, depending on whether the selected inspection area is located on the front or back of the sheet. Note that in the case of RIP inspection, reference images are managed on a page-by-page basis rather than a sheet-by-sheet basis, so the scope of application can also be set to "Odd pages or even pages". If "All pages" is selected, the selected inspection area will be placed on all pages.

[0090] Setting item 734 is for setting round-shaped abnormalities (dots) and linear abnormalities (streaks), and sets the detection level for each. The detection level is a parameter set in stages to determine how large an abnormality is judged to be abnormal for each characteristic of the detected abnormality. For example, there are five levels from level 1 to level 5, and level 5 can detect thinner and smaller abnormalities than level 1. Note that the detection level of the present invention is not intended to be limited to five levels, and two, three, seven levels may be applied. Alternatively, it may be possible to change it analogously by inputting via an adjustment bar. Furthermore, a level can be set for each inspection item, such as inspection level 5 for dots and inspection level 4 for streaks. Setting item 734 indicates that the user has selected inspection level 4 for abnormalities (dots) and level 4 for abnormalities (streaks).

[0091] (Data inspection area inspection settings) Figure 12 shows an example of the inspection settings screen 1200 that appears when button 722 is operated to set the data inspection area. Here, we will mainly explain the differences from the inspection settings screen 700.

[0092] The settings area 741 is a group of UI elements for configuring the data inspection area, which is displayed when a data inspection area is selected in area 705. Here, we will assume that area 707 is currently selected. Note that in area 705, the selected area is clearly distinguishable from the unselected areas.

[0093] The setting area 742 sets the scope of application for the selected area. If nothing is selected, the selected inspection area will only be placed on the page currently displayed in area 705. If "Same side as current page" is selected, the selected inspection area will be placed on the same side of the sheet, depending on whether the selected inspection area is located on the front or back of the sheet. If "All pages" is selected, the selected inspection area will be placed on all pages.

[0094] The setting area 743 is where you set the correct CSV file to be used for verification during the matching check. By operating button 744, you can select a file, and the selected file name will be displayed. The specification of the correct CSV file is the same for both character verification and barcode verification.

[0095] Setting area 745 is used to configure the currently selected data inspection area. Here you can set the orientation, select whether to inspect a text area or a barcode area, the font type, the barcode type, whether to perform a matching check, and specify the column of the correct CSV file for the matching check. Setting item 746 sets the orientation of the text in area 707. Setting items 747 and 748 specify whether the selected area is for text inspection or barcode inspection. You can only select one of setting items 747 or 748. Setting item 749 sets the font for OCR processing in area 707 when text inspection is selected in setting item 747. If setting item 747 is not selected, selection item 749 may be grayed out and cannot be operated. Setting item 750 sets the type of barcode for decoding in area 707 when barcode inspection is selected in setting item 748. If setting item 748 is not selected, selection item 750 may be grayed out and cannot be operated. Setting item 751 sets whether to perform a matching check. If the matching check is set to "Enabled", the OCR process in area 707 is performed using the correct answer CSV file specified in setting area 743 and the column number specified in setting item 752, and a matching check is performed between the read string and the string specified in the correct answer CSV.

[0096] (Check settings for matching search area) Figure 13 shows an example of the inspection settings screen 1300 that appears when button 723 is operated to set the matching inspection area. Here, we will mainly explain the differences from the inspection settings screen 700. Matching inspection is a check to see if the reading results of two or more inspection areas match. For example, an area on the first page (first area) 709 and a matching inspection area on a different page, the second page, are set as the areas to be matched (second area), and the system checks whether the reading results of both areas match.

[0097] The settings area 761 is a UI group for configuring the matching inspection area, which is displayed when a matching inspection area is selected in area 705. Here, we will assume that area 709 is currently selected.

[0098] Area 761 is used to configure the currently selected matching inspection area. Here, you can specify the orientation, whether to use a text area or a barcode inspection area, the font type, and the barcode type. Setting item 762 sets the orientation of area 709. Setting items 763 and 764 specify whether the selected area is for text inspection or barcode inspection. Only one of setting items 763 or 764 can be selected. Setting item 765 sets the font for OCR processing of area 709 when setting item 763 is selected. If setting item 763 is not selected, selection item 765 may be displayed grayed out to prevent operation. Setting item 766 sets the barcode type for decoding area 709 when setting item 764 is selected. If setting item 764 is not selected, selection item 766 may be displayed grayed out to prevent operation.

[0099] Here, we will describe the matching inspection area information that indicates the matching inspection area according to this embodiment. When a matching inspection area is created, the reference image generation unit 2503, executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150, saves the matching inspection area information (page number of the reference image, coordinate information of the area, orientation, font type or barcode type) to the RAM 252. Figure 11 is an example of a matching inspection area set in a reference image and a table saved in RAM 252. Figure 11(a) is an example of the inspection setting screen 1300 and the table saved in RAM 252 when one matching inspection area has been created for a reference image. The reference image 1101 shows the image to be inspected displayed in area 705 of the inspection setting screen 1300. When a matching inspection area 1102 is generated for this reference image 1101, the reference image generation unit 2503, executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150, creates a new table 1103 and saves it to RAM 252. Table 1103 defines the inspection type "Character", font type / barcode type "OCR-B_10pt", page number "1", coordinates 1-4 for the four vertices of the rectangular inspection area, and the reading result "01234".

[0100] Returning to the explanation of Figure 13, button 767 is an example of a display object and is a button for generating target areas for matching inspection, transitioning to the matching target generation settings screen 800 shown in Figure 8(a). Since matching inspection checks whether data in two or more areas matches, it is necessary to generate matching targets on arbitrary pages and at arbitrary positions.

[0101] Figure 8(a) is an example of the matching target generation setting screen 800 that the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 displays to the UI unit 257 when button 767 is operated to set the target area of ​​the matching inspection area. Text box 801 allows the user to specify the number of pages for which matching targets should be generated. A single page number may be entered, or the user may specify a single page number such as "1,3,5", or a page range including multiple pages such as "5-9", or a combination of these. Text box 805 sets the number of matching inspection areas to be generated. When button 806 is operated, the matching target generation setting screen 800 is closed, and the user returns to the inspection setting screen 1300 without saving the information entered in text boxes 801 and 805. On the other hand, when button 807 is operated, a predetermined number of areas are generated on the reference image of a predetermined page based on the information received in text boxes 801 and 805.

[0102] Let's explain a specific use case. For example, if you want to check if multiple data points on the same page match, for instance, if you want to check for matches between five data points on page 3, first create a match check area on page 3 in the check settings screen 1300. Then, by operating button 767 and entering "3" in text box 801 and "4" in text box 805, four additional match check areas will be created on page 3, for a total of five.

[0103] Furthermore, when the display control unit 2501 receives a request to create a matching inspection area for a matching target, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching inspection area information with the area set to a table and saves it in the RAM 252. Figure 11(b) shows an example of the inspection setting screen 1300 and the table saved in the RAM 252 after Figure 11(a), in which matching inspection areas for matching targets have been created for different reference images.

[0104] When a matching inspection area 1105 is created on the reference image 1104, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching inspection area information of the matching inspection area 1105 to the table 1103 and saves it to the RAM 252. Note that at the inspection setting stage, the reading result column is blank and nothing is saved.

[0105] During the inspection, a match check is performed between areas stored in the same table. In the example in Figure 11(b), table 1103 stores information for match check area 1102 and match check area 1105, and a match check is performed on these two areas. Match check areas 1102 and 1105 have different inspection types, one being characters and the other a barcode, but they are subject to the match check because the content of the information, "01234," is the same. Thus, according to this embodiment, the match check can be performed on combinations of inspection types that are the same or different.

[0106] Furthermore, when matching inspection regions for different matching targets are created, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching inspection region information to a new table and saves it in RAM 252. Figure 11(c) shows an example where matching inspection regions for different matching targets exist within the reference image 1104. Figure 11(c) shows an example of a state further later than Figures 11(a) and 11(b). In the reference image 1104, which is the reference image on page 3, when a new matching inspection region 1106 is created, the reference image generation unit 2503 adds the matching inspection region information for the matching inspection region 1106 to table 1107 and saves it in RAM 252. When a matching target is generated for the matching inspection region 1106, the matching inspection region information for that region is saved in table 1107. In this way, matching inspection is performed between regions saved in the same table.

[0107] Here, we have shown an example of performing a match check on regions stored in the same table, but the reference image generation unit 2503 may also take the form of assigning an ID to a region and performing a match check on regions that have the same ID. In this case, for example, the first match check region created and all the regions it is supposed to match are assigned region ID=1, and when the user creates a new match check region, this match check region is assigned region ID=2. The regions that the match check region with region ID=2 is supposed to match are also assigned region ID=2. It is sufficient to know the relationship between the regions being checked for match, and the IDs are not limited to those shown here.

[0108] By saving matching inspection area information in tables or IDs, matching inspections can be performed during the inspection process by associating areas within the same table or areas with the same ID. For example, even if multiple matching inspection areas exist within the same page's reference image, the desired matching inspection can be performed based on the association. Furthermore, matching inspections can be performed even if areas within the same table and with the same ID are on separate pages, or if areas exist across multiple pages. While this example shows a method where data inspection and matching inspection areas are set separately, it is also possible to include a setting to determine whether or not to perform matching inspections within the data inspection settings.

[0109] <Inspection Flow> Referring to Figure 9, the processing procedure for the inspection operation according to this embodiment will be described. The program for the inspection apparatus related to this flow is stored in the ROM 253 of the inspection apparatus 150, read into the RAM 252, and executed by the CPU 251. The program for the image forming apparatus is stored in the ROM 203 of the image forming apparatus 100, read into the RAM 202, and executed by the CPU 201. The program for the information processing apparatus is stored in the ROM 243 of the information processing apparatus 140, read into the RAM 242, and executed by the CPU 241.

[0110] In S901, the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 receives a print job start notification from the image forming apparatus 100 via the data control unit 2502. The CPU 201 of the image forming apparatus 100 instructs the printer unit 209 to print via the print control unit 2005. The printed paper is transported from the image forming apparatus 100 to the inspection unit 110. Upon arrival at the inspection unit 110, the CPU 211 of the inspection unit 110 instructs the image reading unit 216 to scan via the image reading control unit 2101.

[0111] In S902, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the data control unit 2502 receives image assignment information from the image forming apparatus 100. Upon receiving the image assignment information, the CPU 251 uses the reference image generation unit 2503 to refer to the image ID of the received image assignment information and reads the RIP image with the matching image ID from the RAM 252. The RIP image here is the RIP image processed using the reference image parameters in S604. A reference image is generated using the read RIP image, reference image parameters, and image assignment information, and the generated reference image and image assignment information are stored in the RAM 252. Since the image assignment information includes information that is determined at the time of printing, in addition to the processing described in S604, it is necessary to generate a reference image that matches the conditions under which it will be printed on the paper, so the reference image is generated during the actual print job. Here, the reference image generation unit 2503 processes the RIP image based on information such as rotation amount and shift amount to generate the reference image. If the inspection method is scan inspection, S902 is skipped and the process proceeds to S903.

[0112] In S903, the data control unit 2502 receives the scanned image read by the image reading unit 216 of the inspection unit 110 and stores it in the RAM 252. When the inspection method is RIP inspection, the CPU 241 of the information processing device 140 is assigned an image ID by the image processing control unit 2402, but when the inspection method is scan inspection, the image ID is assigned in the same way as described in S604.

[0113] In S904, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 reads a reference image with the same image ID as the image ID of the image assignment information received in S902 from RAM 252 via the inspection processing control unit 2504. On the other hand, if the inspection method is scan inspection, the inspection processing control unit 2504 refers to the image ID assigned in S903 and reads a reference image with the same image ID from RAM 252.

[0114] In S905, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs a positional misalignment inspection on the scan image received in S904 using the reference image read out in S904. The positional misalignment inspection is as explained using the block diagram of the software configuration of the inspection device 150 in Figure 3. Once the positional misalignment inspection is complete, the process proceeds to S906, where the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the positional misalignment inspection passed or failed. If it passed, the process proceeds to S907; otherwise, the process proceeds to S910.

[0115] In S907, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs pattern inspection and data inspection on the scanned image received in S903 using the reference image read in S904. The pattern inspection and data inspection are as described using the block diagram of the software configuration of the inspection device 150 in Figure 3. Once the pattern inspection and data inspection are completed, the process proceeds to S908. If no pattern inspection or data inspection area is set in the reference image, S907 is skipped and the process proceeds to S908.

[0116] In S908, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs a matching check on the scan image received in S903 using the reference image read in S904. The matching check process will be described in detail later using the flowchart in Figure 10. Once the process in S908 is complete, the process proceeds to S910.

[0117] In S910, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the inspected sheet is the final sheet of the inspection job. If the inspection method is scan inspection, this determination is made until printing is complete; if the inspection method is RIP inspection, this determination is made based on whether the image assignment information received in S902 indicates that it is the final page. If it is not the final sheet, the process proceeds to S909; if it is the final sheet, the process in this flowchart ends.

[0118] In S909, if the inspection method is RIP inspection, the inspection processing control unit 2504 discards the image assignment information for sheet numbers whose inspection has been completed in S905 to S908. If the inspection method is scan inspection, the process in S909 is skipped. The process then returns to S902 and repeats the processes in S905 to S908 until there are no more matching inspection areas on the page.

[0119] <Concord test> Referring to Figure 10, the detailed processing procedure for the matching check (S908) in the inspection device 150 will be explained. The process described below is achieved, for example, by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150 expanding the program code stored in the ROM 253 into the RAM 252, and then reading and executing the program code expanded into the RAM 252. As mentioned above, the matching check is an inspection that checks whether the reading results of two or more inspection areas match. Therefore, the display format of the data does not have to be the same, and it may be strings together, or strings and barcodes, as long as the results read as data in the end match.

[0120] In S1001, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs data extraction. The data extraction process is the same as the extraction process performed in data inspection, as explained using the block diagram of the software configuration of the inspection device 150 in Figure 3. Next, in S1002, the inspection processing control unit 2504 checks whether the strings or barcodes in the matching inspection area are readable. If they are readable, it is determined to be a pass, the reading result is added to the table, and stored in RAM 252. On the other hand, if they are not readable, it is determined to be a fail. If it is determined to be a pass, the process proceeds to S1003; if it is determined to be a fail, the process proceeds to S1007.

[0121] The string obtained here is stored in the table where the matching inspection area information is stored. If the reading result in the matching inspection area 1102 in Figure 11(a) is "01234", the inspection processing control unit 2504 adds this information to table 1103 and stores it in RAM 252. If reading is not possible, "Reading NG" is stored in table 1103. Note that storing "Reading NG" is just one example; any information that identifies that reading was impossible should be stored.

[0122] In S1007, the inspection processing control unit 2504 saves information indicating a failure in the read inspection to RAM 252 and proceeds to S1004. Meanwhile, in S1003, the inspection processing control unit 2504 associates the data read in S1001 and S1002 with the table where the matching inspection area information corresponding to the matching inspection being performed is stored, saves it to RAM 252 as correct answer data, and proceeds to S1004. In the example in Figure 11(a), since the read result was "01234", the inspection processing control unit 2504 associates the information "correct answer data = 01234" with table 1103 and saves it to RAM 252. Also, if an ID is assigned to the area, the data read in S1001 and S1002 is associated with the area ID and saved to RAM 252 as correct answer data.

[0123] Next, in S1004, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether there are any other matching inspection areas within the page of the reference image being inspected. If there are no other matching inspection areas in the reference image, the process of this flowchart ends. If there are other matching inspection areas in the reference image, the process proceeds to S1005. In S1005, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs the matching inspection area extraction process described in S1001. Subsequently, in S1006, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs the readability check described in S1002. If readability is also confirmed here, the read result is added to the table and saved in RAM 252. For example, if the area read in S1005 and S1006 is the matching inspection area 1105 shown in Figure 11(b), the inspection processing control unit 2504 saves the barcode decoding result as the read result in RAM 252. Here, the read result of the matching inspection area 1105 is set to "01234". If the result is judged as passing, proceed to S1008; if it is judged as failing, proceed to S1007.

[0124] In S1008, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the correct answer data is already associated and stored in the table or area ID where the matching inspection area information corresponding to the matching inspection being performed is stored. If the correct answer data is already stored, the process proceeds to S1009; otherwise, it returns to S1003. In S1009, the inspection processing control unit 2504 compares the data read in S1005 and S1006 with the correct answer data. If the contents of the two data match, it is judged as a pass; if they do not match, it is judged as a fail. If it is judged as a pass, the process proceeds to S1010; if it is judged as a fail, the process proceeds to S1011. In the example in Figure 11(b), the correct answer data is "01234", and the results read in S1005 and S1006 are "01234". Since these two match, the matching inspection is judged as a pass.

[0125] In S1010, the inspection processing control unit 2504 stores information indicating that the matching inspection area read in S1005 and S1001 has passed the matching inspection in RAM 252. Then it returns to S1004 and continues this process until there are no more matching inspection areas left on the page. On the other hand, in S1011, the inspection processing control unit 2504 stores information indicating that the matching inspection area read in S1005 and S1001 has failed the matching inspection in RAM 252. Then it returns to S1004 and continues this process until there are no more matching inspection areas left on the page.

[0126] If the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines in S1004 that there are no other matching inspection areas on the page, it terminates the processing in this flowchart and proceeds to S909 in Figure 9. In the example in Figure 11(c), for example, if the reference image being inspected in S1004 was 1104, then in addition to matching inspection area 1105, there is also matching inspection area 1106. In cases where there are other matching inspection areas like this, the inspection is not terminated and the process returns to S1005.

[0127] As described above, the inspection device according to this embodiment acquires a page-level reference image corresponding to a printed document and sets the inspection settings for the printed document via the page-level reference image. In this setting, for a matching inspection that checks whether the information readable from the printed image matches among multiple inspection areas, a first area is set as the inspection area on the reference image of the first page according to user operation. In this setting, a second area is set as the inspection area to match the first area on the reference image of the second page, which is a different page from the first page, according to user operation. According to this embodiment, it is possible to perform matching inspections between areas existing on the same surface, multiple surfaces, or separate surfaces, without being limited to a pair of areas existing on the front and back. By eliminating the restriction on the pages on which matching inspections can be set, the types of deliverables on which matching inspections can be performed can be greatly increased.

[0128] <Second Embodiment> The following describes a second embodiment of the present invention. In the first embodiment described above, a method for generating matching inspection areas based on information about the number of pages and areas entered by the user was explained. In order to extract data within the areas necessary for matching inspection, it is necessary to set the orientation of the area and the font type and barcode type used within the area. As the number of matching inspection areas to be matched increases, setting the orientation, font type and barcode type for each area becomes time-consuming and burdensome for the user. Therefore, in this embodiment, a method for reducing the number of matching inspection areas to be set will be described, taking into consideration the burden of the above settings. The following mainly describes the differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment described above. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0129] <Test settings for the matching test area> This embodiment describes the settings for the matching target generation setting screen 800, which is a distinctive feature of this embodiment. By entering information about the pages and number of areas for which matching targets are to be generated into text boxes 801 and 805, and operating button 807, matching inspection areas for matching targets are generated. Here, matching inspection areas with the same coordinates, orientation, font type, or barcode type as the initially created matching inspection area are generated based on the information received in text box 801, setting item 802, and text boxes 803-805. At this time, a predetermined number of areas are generated on the reference image of a predetermined page. However, the coordinates, orientation, font type, and barcode type of the inspection areas do not necessarily have to be set to be the same as the initially created matching inspection area, and the user may edit the coordinates and settings to any desired value after the matching targets have been generated.

[0130] According to this embodiment, users can set the orientation, font type, and barcode type of matching areas present on various pages with minimal user intervention. Furthermore, since matching areas may have the same font or barcode in the same orientation, this approach helps prevent setting errors compared to setting these parameters for each individual area. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user burden associated with setting matching areas and improve convenience.

[0131] <Third Embodiment> A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the second embodiment described above, a method for setting the orientation, font type, and barcode type of the matching inspection area was described with fewer steps. When generating the matching inspection area for the matching target, in addition to these settings, it is necessary to input the number of pages and the number of areas. In the output of the matching inspection, for example, there are cases where you want to print 4 pages of print data for 10 people and check for matching of data that is always present on the first page. Also, there are cases where you want to check that data that is printed only on odd-numbered pages of the print job matches throughout the entire print job. When setting up such regular settings, the user has to repeatedly input the number of pages, which creates a burden on the inspection settings. Furthermore, when the user repeatedly inputs, there is a possibility that input errors will occur and unintended inspections will be performed.

[0132] Therefore, in this embodiment, considering the load of the above settings, a method for reducing the number of page settings when generating the matching inspection area for the matching target will be described. Below, the differences between this embodiment and the first and second embodiments described above will be mainly explained. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as in the first and second embodiments.

[0133] <How to set the matching test area> This embodiment will now describe the settings for the matching target generation setting screen 800, which is a distinctive feature of this embodiment. Setting item 802 in Figure 8(a) is selected when the page for which matching targets are generated is to be repeatedly set for each predetermined page. When setting item 802 is selected, text boxes 803 and 804 become editable, and when the selection is deselected, text boxes 803 and 804 are displayed in gray and cannot be edited.

[0134] Text boxes 803 and 804 are areas for entering the regularity of the pages that will repeatedly generate the matching targets. Text box 803 is for entering the initial page, which is the first target page of the matching targets. Text box 804 is for entering the interval at which the process will repeat for each predetermined page that will be the target page.

[0135] For example, consider a scenario where you print 10 copies of a 4-page document per person and want to verify that the data on the first page matches in all 10 copies. In this case, you first create a matching check area on the first page, then operate button 767 and enter "1" (the initial page) in text box 803 and "4" (the repetition interval) in text box 804. This will generate matching check areas every 4 pages. By generating matching check areas every 4 pages from the first to the fourth, you can verify that the data content of the matching check areas matches across all 10 copies. Another scenario is where you want to verify that the data printed on odd-numbered pages of the print data matches throughout the entire job. In this case, you first create a matching check target on the first page, enter "1" in text box 803 and "2" in text box 804, and matching check areas will be set on all odd-numbered pages of the job.

[0136] Alternatively, you can enter the number of pages for the interval in text box 804. In this case, if a matching test area is generated every 4 pages as described above, the number of pages for the interval will be 3, so you would enter "3". If a matching test area is generated every odd number of pages, the number of pages for the interval will be 1, so you would enter "1".

[0137] According to this embodiment, in a print job with a regular pattern, the number of pages can be set with fewer user interventions. Furthermore, by reducing the number of user interventions, unintended match checks due to user setting errors can be prevented. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user's burden related to page setting for the match check area and improve convenience.

[0138] <Fourth Embodiment> The following describes a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The first to third embodiments described above described a method for generating multiple matching search areas on various pages. When multiple matching search areas exist, the user must correctly configure which areas to perform matching searches on. This is because if incorrect areas are set as matching targets, unintended searches may be performed.

[0139] In this embodiment, we will describe a method for displaying a screen that performs matching checks as intended by the user, by displaying the regions to be checked for matching in a list. Below, we will mainly describe the differences between this embodiment and the first to third embodiments described above. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as in the first to third embodiments.

[0140] <Test settings for the matching test area> The matching inspection area list screen 810, which is a feature of this embodiment, will now be described. Button 768 on the inspection settings screen 700 is an example of a display object and is a button for displaying a list screen of all areas to be checked for matching. When button 768 is operated, the system transitions to the matching inspection area list screen 810 shown in Figure 8(b).

[0141] Figure 8(b) shows an example of a list screen 810 of matching inspection areas that the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 displays to the UI unit 257 when displaying a list of reference images and areas to be checked for matching. The list screen 810 consists of buttons 811, 813, 814, area 812, and a scroll bar 815.

[0142] Button 811 is used to select a page. Button 811 displays the page number to identify the page, and if there are multiple buttons 811, only one can be selected. Area 812 displays the reference image and the set matching search area for the page where the matching search area is set. If matching search areas are set for multiple pages, the reference images for the multiple pages are listed in ascending order, as shown in Figure 8(b). Reference images that cannot be displayed can be viewed and selected using the scroll bar 815. When the matching search area list screen 810 is displayed, the initial setting is that button 811 selects the page with the lowest number.

[0143] Button 813 is used to return to the inspection settings screen 700. When this button is pressed, the matching inspection area list screen 810 is closed and the system returns to the inspection settings screen 700. Button 814 is used to move to the reference image of the page selected by button 811. When this button is pressed, the matching inspection area list screen 810 is closed and the system returns to the inspection settings screen 700, and the display jumps to the reference image of the page specified by button 811.

[0144] If there are multiple buttons 811, it is acceptable to allow multiple selections. In that case, operating button 814 may display the reference images of the selected pages side by side on the inspection settings screen 700. Also, there may be multiple matching inspection areas within the same reference image. In that case, selecting a matching inspection area may highlight the matching inspection areas that are the target of the match. Highlighting may take the form of making the color of the areas the same or making the shape of the lines the same for matching targets.

[0145] As explained above, according to this embodiment, when multiple matching search areas exist on various pages, it becomes easier to confirm which areas should be matched. This prevents areas from being missed in the settings or unintended matching searches between areas, and improves user visibility when confirming matching targets.

[0146] The disclosures herein include the following inspection apparatus, control methods thereof, and programs. (Item 1) An inspection device, A means for acquiring a reference image on a page-by-page basis corresponding to a printed document, A setting means for setting the inspection settings of the printed material via the aforementioned page-level reference image, Equipped with, The setting means is, For a matching test that checks whether the information read from a printed image matches across multiple test areas, the first test area is set on the reference image on the first page according to user operation. An inspection device characterized by setting a second region as an inspection region to match the first region, according to user operation, on a reference image of a second page, which is a different page from the first page. (Item 2) The inspection apparatus according to item 1, characterized in that the setting means displays an inspection setting screen that displays the page-level reference image on the display unit, and accepts inspection settings via the inspection setting screen. (Item 3) The inspection apparatus according to item 2, characterized in that the setting means accepts the first region on the reference image of the first page displayed on the inspection setting screen. (Item 4) The inspection apparatus according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that, when a display object for starting the setting of multiple inspection areas in a matching inspection is selected on the inspection setting screen, the setting means displays a setting screen for matching targets on the display unit that accepts the number of pages for setting the inspection areas and the number of inspection areas to be set by user operation. (Item 5) The inspection device according to item 4, characterized in that the matching target setting screen allows specifying at least one of the following as the number of pages for which the inspection area is to be set: specifying a single page number and specifying a page range that includes multiple pages. (Item 6) The inspection device according to item 4 or 5, characterized in that the matching target setting screen allows specifying the regularity of the pages to be inspected as the number of pages for which the inspection area is to be set. (Item 7) The inspection device according to item 6, characterized in that, in the matching target setting screen, when setting the second area repeatedly from the first page to a predetermined page as a regularity of the pages to be inspected, it is possible to specify the first page on which the first area is set and the predetermined page indicating the interval of repetition. (Item 8) The inspection apparatus according to any one of items 4 to 7, characterized in that the setting means sets the second area corresponding to the first area for each corresponding page according to the information received via the matching target setting screen. (Item 9) The inspection apparatus according to item 8, characterized in that when setting the second area, the setting means sets at least one parameter of the coordinates, orientation, and font type or code type of the data contained in the inspection area to the same parameter as the first area. (Item 10) The inspection apparatus according to any one of items 2 to 9, characterized in that when a display object for displaying a list of multiple set inspection areas in a matching inspection is selected on the inspection setting screen, the setting means displays a list screen on the display unit that allows the selection of reference images of pages in which inspection areas are set. (Item 11) The inspection device according to item 10, characterized in that the reference image displayed on the list screen shows one or more set inspection areas in an identifiable manner. (Item 12) The inspection device according to item 10 or 11, characterized in that when a predetermined reference image is selected from the displayed reference images on the list screen, the device transitions to the inspection settings screen on the page corresponding to the predetermined reference image. (Item 13) The inspection apparatus according to any one of items 2 to 12, characterized in that the setting means sets multiple inspection areas within a single page. (Item 14) The inspection apparatus according to item 13, characterized in that when multiple groups of matching targets are set in the aforementioned multiple inspection areas, the inspection areas of matching targets of different groups are included. (Item 15) The inspection apparatus according to item 13 or 14, characterized in that the plurality of inspection areas include the first and second areas that are subject to matching for a predetermined group. (Item 16) The inspection device according to any one of items 2 to 15, characterized in that the inspection setting screen allows setting of the inspection area and parameters related to the inspection for at least one inspection, which includes a print image inspection that checks for misalignment and abnormalities in the print image, and a data inspection that checks for data extracted from strings or codes contained in the print image. (Item 17) A method for controlling an inspection device, The acquisition method includes an acquisition process to acquire a page-by-page reference image corresponding to the printed material, The setting means includes a setting step of setting the inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image, and Includes, In the aforementioned setup process, For a matching test that checks whether the information read from a printed image matches across multiple test areas, the first test area is set on the reference image on the first page according to user operation. A control method for an inspection device, characterized in that a second region is set on a reference image of a second page, which is a different page from the first page, as an inspection region to match the first region, according to user operation. (Item 18) A program for causing a computer to execute each step in a control method for an inspection device, wherein the control method is: The acquisition method includes an acquisition process to acquire a page-by-page reference image corresponding to the printed material, The setting means includes a setting step of setting the inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image, and Includes, In the aforementioned setup process, For a matching test that checks whether the information read from a printed image matches across multiple test areas, the first test area is set on the reference image on the first page according to user operation. A program characterized by setting a second region as an inspection region to match the first region, according to user operation, on a reference image of a second page, which is a different page from the first page.

[0147] <Other Embodiments> 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 storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0148] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0149] 100: Image forming apparatus, 110: Inspection apparatus, 120: High-capacity stacker, 130: Client PC, 140: Information processing apparatus, 150: Inspection apparatus, 160: Network, 170: Communication cable

Claims

1. An inspection device, A means for acquiring a reference image on a page-by-page basis corresponding to a printed document, A setting means for setting the inspection settings of the printed material via the aforementioned page-level reference image, Equipped with, The setting means is, For a matching test that checks whether the information read from a printed image matches across multiple inspection areas, the first inspection area is set on the reference image on the first page according to user operation. An inspection device characterized in that, on a reference image of a second page, which is a different page from the first page, a second region is set as an inspection region to match the first region, according to user operation.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the setting means displays an inspection setting screen that displays the page-level reference image on the display unit, and accepts inspection settings via the inspection setting screen.

3. The inspection apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting means accepts the first region on the reference image of the first page displayed on the inspection setting screen.

4. The inspection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the setting means, when a display object for starting the setting of multiple inspection areas in a matching inspection is selected on the inspection setting screen, displays a setting screen for matching targets that accepts the number of pages for setting the inspection areas and the number of inspection areas to be set by the user.

5. The inspection device according to claim 4, characterized in that the matching target setting screen allows specifying at least one of the following as the number of pages for which the inspection area is to be set: specifying a single page number and specifying a page range that includes multiple pages.

6. The inspection device according to claim 4, characterized in that the matching target setting screen allows specifying the regularity of the pages to be inspected as the number of pages for which the inspection area is to be set.

7. The inspection device according to claim 6, wherein the matching target setting screen allows specifying, as a regularity of the pages to be inspected, the second area to be set repeatedly for each predetermined page starting from the first page, the first page on which the first area is set and the predetermined page indicating the interval between repetitions can be specified.

8. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the setting means sets the second area corresponding to the first area for each corresponding page according to the information received via the matching target setting screen.

9. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that when setting the second area, the setting means sets at least one parameter of the coordinates, orientation, and font type or code type of the data included in the inspection area to the same parameter as the first area.

10. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, when a display object for displaying a list of multiple set inspection areas in a matching inspection is selected on the inspection setting screen, the setting means displays a list screen on the display unit that allows the selection of reference images of pages in which inspection areas are set.

11. The inspection apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that one or more set inspection areas are displayed in an identifiable manner in the reference image displayed on the list screen.

12. The inspection apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that when a predetermined reference image is selected from the displayed reference images on the list screen, the system transitions to the inspection settings screen on the page corresponding to the predetermined reference image.

13. The inspection apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the setting means sets multiple inspection areas within a single page.

14. The inspection apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that when multiple groups of matching targets are set in the multiple inspection areas, the inspection areas of matching targets of different groups are included.

15. The inspection apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the plurality of inspection areas include the first and second areas that are to be matched by a predetermined group.

16. The inspection device according to claim 8, characterized in that the inspection setting screen allows setting of the inspection area and parameters related to the inspection for at least one inspection, in addition to the inspection area and parameters related to the inspection for the matching inspection, for a print image inspection that checks for misalignment and abnormalities in the print image, and a data inspection that checks for data extracted from strings or codes contained in the print image.

17. A method for controlling an inspection device, The acquisition method includes an acquisition process to acquire a page-by-page reference image corresponding to the printed material, The setting means includes a setting step of setting the inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image, and Includes, In the aforementioned setup process, For a matching test that checks whether the information read from a printed image matches across multiple inspection areas, the first inspection area is set on the reference image on the first page according to user operation. A control method for an inspection device, characterized in that a second region is set on a reference image of a second page, which is a different page from the first page, as an inspection region to match the first region, according to user operation.

18. A program for causing a computer to execute each step in a control method for an inspection device, wherein the control method is: The acquisition method includes an acquisition process to acquire a page-by-page reference image corresponding to the printed material, The setting means includes a setting step of setting the inspection settings for the printed material via the page-by-page reference image, and Includes, In the aforementioned setup process, For a matching test that checks whether the information read from a printed image matches across multiple inspection areas, the first inspection area is set on the reference image on the first page according to user operation. A program characterized by setting a second region as an inspection region for matching the first region, on a reference image of a second page which is a different page from the first page, according to user operation.

Images