Inspection system

Abstract

However, in inspections that repeatedly use a set of reference images and inspection areas, there is a risk that the inspection may not be performed correctly when inspecting a print job that has multiple sets of repeating units, where the content arrangement is the same in each set but the image of the content differs. [Solution] The present invention relates to an inspection system for printed materials having at least two sets of sheets of paper that form repeating units of paper, and containing at least one piece of content, comprising: a first setting means for setting an inspection area for each reference image included in a first reference image group of a first set; and a second setting means for setting the inspection area set by the first setting means for each reference image included in a second reference image group of a second set, which has the same content arrangement as the first reference image group but different content related to the image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inspection (product inspection) for checking whether a printed matter is printed correctly has been performed manually, but in recent years, apparatuses that automatically perform inspection as post-processing of printing presses have been used. Inspection apparatuses sometimes inspect VDP jobs in which character strings and barcodes are variable. In such VDP jobs, since the layout of content in print data is the same, a reference image and inspection area for only one set are registered. Patent Document 1 proposes a method of repeatedly using both the registered reference image and inspection area for one set.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In inspection that repeatedly uses a set of a reference image and an inspection area, when inspecting a print job that has a plurality of sets each serving as a repeating unit, and in which the content layout is common among each set but the content patterns differ, there is a risk that inspection cannot be performed correctly.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] The present invention relates to an inspection system for printed matter having at least two sets of paper that constitute a repeating unit of paper, and containing at least one piece of content, comprising: a first setting means for setting an inspection area for each reference image included in a first reference image group of a first set; a second setting means for setting the inspection area set by the first setting means for each reference image included in a second reference image group of a second set that has the same content arrangement as the first reference image group but different content relating to the image; and an inspection means for comparing a scanned image obtained by scanning the printed matter with each reference image in the first reference image group and each reference image in the second reference image group based on the inspection area. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to correctly inspect variable patterns. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device, an inspection device, and a printing device. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device, inspection device, and printing device. [Figure 3] Block diagram showing the software configuration [Figure 4] Example of a job properties screen [Figure 5] An example of a flowchart for testing information processing equipment. [Figure 6] Example of a flowchart for registering inspection settings for an inspection device. [Figure 7] An example of a UI screen for inspection settings [Figure 8] An example of an operation flowchart for inspection equipment. [Figure 9] Example of a flowchart for the operation of the inspection settings. [Figure 10] An example of a UI screen for inspection settings [Figure 11] An example of an operation flowchart for inspection equipment. [Figure 12]Example of a flowchart for the operation of the inspection settings. [Figure 13] Example of a flowchart for the operation of the inspection settings. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in each embodiment are necessarily essential to the solution. The device may be a single unit or an inspection system consisting of multiple devices, as long as the functions of this embodiment are realized. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the inspection system may be connected and processed via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network), as long as the functions of this embodiment are realized. In other words, the system configuration with various terminals described in the following embodiments is just one example, and there are various configurations depending on the application and purpose.

[0009] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 shows the configuration of an inspection system including an inspection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. 100 is an image forming apparatus, 110 is an inspection unit, 120 is a high-capacity stacker, 130 is a client PC, 140 is an information processing device, 150 is an inspection device, 160 is a network, and 170 is a communication cable.

[0010] The image forming apparatus 100 includes a UI unit 101, a paper feed deck 102, and a paper feed deck 103. Furthermore, an optional deck 104 consisting of three paper feed decks is connected. Recording sheets such as printing paper can be set in each deck. The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data, such as print data sent from a client PC 130 or an information processing device 140. The image forming apparatus 100 also 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 an internal bus, which is a communication cable.

[0011] The inspection unit 110 receives printed matter output from the image forming apparatus 100, and acquires image data for inspecting whether the received printed matter includes a defective image. Here, a defective image refers to an image that degrades the quality of the printed matter. For example, it includes a round defective image (spot) caused by color material adhering to unintended locations during printing, color missing caused by insufficient color material adhering to intended locations, and a linear defective image (streak). Then, the acquired image data is transferred via a communication cable 170 to an inspection apparatus 150 described later, an inspection for whether the printed matter includes a defective image is performed on the inspection apparatus 150, and the inspection result is acquired from the inspection apparatus 150.

[0012] 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 one time. The large-capacity stacker 120 can also receive output paper inspected by the inspection unit 110, and switch the paper discharge destination based on the inspection result of the inspection unit 110.

[0013] The image forming apparatus 100 is communicably connected to a client PC 130, an information processing apparatus 140, and the inspection apparatus 150 via a network 160. In the present embodiment, inspection is performed by the inspection apparatus 150, but the configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and may be a configuration like an inline inspection machine that consistently performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge.

[0014] A print job is generated by the client PC 130, transmitted to the information processing apparatus 140 via the network 160, and managed by the information processing apparatus 140. Then, the print job is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 140 to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network 160, and the image forming apparatus 100 performs printing processing on paper. Note that the print job may also be generated and managed in the information processing apparatus 140, transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network 160, and managed by the image forming apparatus 100.

[0015] Note that the client PC 130, the information processing apparatus 140, and the inspection apparatus 150 may be connected to a communication cable and configured to be capable of communicating with the image forming apparatus 100. In other words, the connection configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, the information processing apparatus 140, and the client PC 130 described in the present embodiment is merely an example, and it goes without saying that various connection configurations other than those shown in the present embodiment are possible. Furthermore, in addition to the inspection unit 110 and the stacker 120, the image forming apparatus 100 may also be connected with a stapleable finisher, a folding machine, a bookbinding machine, or the like.

[0016] <Hardware Block Diagram> FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection unit 110, the large-capacity stacker 120, the client PC 130, the information processing apparatus 140, and the inspection apparatus 150 according to the present embodiment.

[0017] The client PC 130 is a PC for generating a print job and transmitting the print job to the information processing apparatus 140 via the network 160. The client PC 130 includes a control unit 230 and a UI unit 235. The control unit 230 includes a CPU 231, a RAM 232, a ROM 233, and a network interface (hereinafter, NWI / F) 234.

[0018] A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 231 controls and performs calculations in each unit in the client PC 130 via an internal bus 273, and is responsible for executing programs stored in the ROM 233 and loaded into the RAM 232. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 232 is a type of general volatile storage device that can be directly accessed by the CPU 231, and is used as a work area for the CPU 231 or other temporary data storage areas. The ROM 233 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during operation of the client PC. The NWI / F 234 transmits and receives data to and from the information processing apparatus 140 via the network 160. The UI unit 235 is a device configured by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is capable of inputting various set values or specified values.

[0019] 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, NWI / F 244, image processing unit 245, and video I / F 247.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The NWI / F244 communicates with the client PC 130, the image forming apparatus 100, and the inspection apparatus 150 via the network 160.

[0022] Alternatively, the inspection device 150 may have an NWI / F, and the information processing device 140 may communicate with the inspection device 150 via the NWI / F and NWI / F244. For example, consider the case where the RIP image used for printing by the image forming apparatus 100 is used as the reference image that will be the correct answer during inspection. In this case, the reference image may be transmitted to the inspection device 150 via the communication I / F214, or it may be transmitted to the inspection device 150 from the NWI / F provided by the inspection device 150 via NWI / F207 and NW I / F224.

[0023] The image processing unit 245 performs RIP processing on the print data. The UI unit 246 is a device that can input various settings or specified values, for example, a keyboard, mouse, display, and other input / output devices.

[0024] The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data, such as print data sent from a client PC 130 or an information processing device 140. The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to a UI unit 101 and a 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 unit 217. It is also connected to the printer unit 209 via the engine I / F unit 205.

[0025] 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 stored in the ROM 203 and is responsible for executing programs 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] The engine interface 205 is responsible for communication and control with the printer unit 209.

[0028] The paper feed deck interface 206 is responsible for communication and control with the paper feed deck 260. The paper feed deck 260 is a collective term for the hardware configuration of paper feed decks 102, 103, and the optional deck 104. The UI unit 101 is a user interface for performing all operations of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0029] NWI / F207 is connected to NWI / F244 of the information processing device 140 via network 160 and manages communication between the information processing device 140 and the printing device 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 / F217 is connected to video I / F247 via video cable 180 and manages the communication of image data between the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100.

[0030] Furthermore, the connection interface between the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100 may be a combined form of the functions of NWI / F244 and video I / F247. Alternatively, the connection interface between the image forming apparatus 100 and the information processing device 140 may be a combined form of the functions of NWI / F207 and video I / F217.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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 unit 214, accessory I / F unit 215, and image reading unit 216.

[0033] The CPU 211 controls and performs calculations in various parts of the inspection unit 110 via an internal bus, and executes programs stored in ROM 213 and loaded into RAM 212. 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. ROM 213 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during inspection device operation. The communication I / F unit 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 unit 215 connects to accessory I / F units 204 and 224 via cable 280. The image reading unit 216 is an image reading unit that reads printed materials transported from the image forming apparatus 100.

[0034] The high-capacity stacker 120 includes a control unit 220 and a paper output unit 225. The control unit 220 includes a CPU 221, RAM 222, ROM 223, and an accessory I / F unit 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 when the inspection device is operating. The paper output unit 225 controls the paper output operation 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 defects in the printed material, sheets without defects would be output to the normal stack, while sheets with defects would be output to the top tray. Alternatively, the system could be designed to output to the same destination regardless of the inspection results.

[0035] 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 unit 254, network I / F unit 255, and inspection processing unit 256.

[0036] 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 unit 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 unit 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 inspects whether or not there are defects in the printed material. The UI unit 257 is, for example, 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.

[0037] <Soft Block Diagram> Figure 3 is a block diagram of the software configuration in the present invention. 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 consist of a display control unit 2301 and a data control unit 2302.

[0038] The display control unit 2301 displays a screen for user operation to the UI unit 235. When the user configures a print job using the UI unit 235, the display control unit 2301 saves the print configuration information to the RAM 232, and when printing is executed, it transmits the print execution to the data control unit 2302. Print configuration 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 NWI / F234.

[0039] 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 consist of a display control unit 2401, an image processing control unit 2402, and a data control unit 2403.

[0040] The display control unit 2401 displays the user interface (UI) screen to the UI unit 246. When the user sets up a print job using the UI unit 246, the display control unit 2401 saves the print setting information to the RAM 242, and when the user executes the print job, it transmits the print execution to the data control unit 2403.

[0041] The image processing control unit 2402 controls the image processing unit 245. When it receives a print execution request, it performs RIP processing to convert print data and 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 preview image (RIP image) to be displayed on UI 257 when registering inspection settings, or for generating a reference image, it generates an image by converting a resolution of, for example, 600 dpi to 300 dpi. On the other hand, in the case of RIP processing for print data, it generates a 600 dpi image without reducing the resolution.

[0042] Furthermore, the image processing control unit 2402 assigns a unique image ID to each RIP image in the order they are to be printed. For example, the first RIP image to be printed is assigned image ID=1, the second RIP image to be printed is assigned image ID=2, and so on. In addition, to indicate that a RIP image is blank, an image ID=0 may be assigned to a blank image.

[0043] 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. It receives print jobs from the client PC 130 via the NWI / F244 and stores them in RAM 242. It also transmits print job start notifications, print setting information, and RIP images to the image forming apparatus 100 via the NWI / F244 and video I / F245. Furthermore, it transmits information for VDP jobs (variable pattern print jobs) where the content arrangement is common but the content related to the pattern is variable. VDP job information refers to, for example, the record number indicating which record the currently printed page is. After transmitting a job for inspection setting registration, if it receives a notification from the image forming apparatus 100 that the registration of the inspection settings is complete, it then transmits a print job. It also includes flag information indicating whether the corresponding preview image is the final sheet (if this flag is 0, it indicates that there are subsequent sheets, and if the flag is 1, it indicates that this sheet is the final sheet).

[0044] In the inspection setting registration job, the data control unit 2403 generates only one set of RIP images and sends them to the image forming apparatus 100. For example, in a VDP job, if each record prints 4 pages, 4 pages are treated as one set. Even if the actual print job submitted has 100 pages, if this 4-page pattern is repeated 25 times, all pages are not registered as preview images. A record refers to related data treated as one unit. For example, the aforementioned 100-page print job can be said to be a print job with 25 records (25 sets). Furthermore, the inspection setting registration job can be configured so that the data control unit 2403 automatically detects and sends one set from the VDP jobs, or the information processing device 140 can accept user input and the user can set the number of pages (number of reference images) for one set. In this example, the inspection setting registration job is submitted separately, but the reference image group for one set can be set based on the actual print job submitted. This embodiment can also be applied if the printed material has a number of pages that satisfy at least two or more sets.

[0045] The term "variable content" in terms of imagery refers to situations such as when printed materials sent for promotional purposes include content tailored to the customer's information. Specifically, for example, an advertisement for a gym might feature images of men exercising for male recipients and images of women exercising for female recipients.

[0046] 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 consist of 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.

[0047] The display control unit 2001 displays a screen for user operation to the UI unit 101. When the user sets up an additional print job using the UI unit 101, the print setting information is saved to the RAM 202 in addition to the settings in the information processing device 140. The print job settings in the image forming apparatus 100 include settings for inserting interleaving paper such as job divider paper and copy divider paper, and paper settings. Furthermore, when printing is paused or resumed, the data control unit 2001 communicates the execution of printing to the data control unit 2002.

[0048] 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, it stores the print setting information and RIP image received via the NWI / F207 and video I / F217 in the RAM202. In the case of inspection setting registration jobs, the data control unit 2403 of the information processing device 140 generates and transmits a preview image, which is then transmitted to the inspection device 150 via the NWI / F207. Once the inspection device 150 has received the preview image and completed the inspection settings, and receives a notification that the inspection settings registration is complete, it sends a registration completion notification to the information processing device 140.

[0049] The preview image may also be transmitted from the information processing device 140 to the inspection device 150, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, in this print job, in parallel with the printing operation of the printer unit 209 described later, the RIP image (reference image) which is the correct answer for inspection and the image assignment information described later are transmitted to the inspection device 150. A notification of the start of the inspection job is also transmitted. The image assignment information includes information such as single-sided information (single-sided printing / double-sided printing) based on the print setting information, as well as 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 other information, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the record number information received from the information processing device 140 is transmitted.

[0050] In this embodiment, an example was given in which the printing operation and the transmission of the RIP image to the inspection device 150 are performed in parallel within the image forming apparatus 100. However, the transmission of the RIP image may be performed by, for example, the information processing device 140. Alternatively, another hardware device may be configured between the information processing device 140 and the image forming apparatus 100, and this hardware device may perform the transmission of the printed image to the image forming apparatus 100 and the transmission of the RIP image to the inspection device 150.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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. Based on the bitmap data transmitted from the image processing control unit 2003, the print control unit 2004 issues instructions to the printer unit 209 for the paper that has been instructed to be transported. In addition, when it receives a notification of print pause / resumption from the accessory control unit 2006 (described later), it instructs the printer unit 209 to stop and resume printing based on the notification. 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, and also receives print pause / resumption notifications from the inspection unit 110 and notifies the print control unit 2005.

[0053] 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 consist of an image reading control unit 2101, a data control unit 2102, and an accessory control unit 2103.

[0054] The image reading control unit 2101 controls the image reading unit 216. The image reading unit 216 has an imaging 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 imaging method is not limited.

[0055] 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.

[0056] The accessory control unit 2103, based on the inspection results and inspection operation mode setting information received by the data control unit 2102, sends control notifications to the image forming apparatus 100 and the high-capacity stacker 120 via the accessory I / F 215. If the system switches the paper output destination based on the inspection results, the high-capacity stacker 120 is notified to output prints without defects to the main tray of the paper output unit 225, and prints 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 predetermined number of defective prints are received consecutively, the accessory control unit 2103 sends a notification to the image forming apparatus 100 to stop printing when the predetermined number is reached.

[0057] 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 consist of 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.

[0058] The display control unit 2501 displays a screen to the UI unit 257. This is done by the inspection processing control unit 2504, which will be described later, and includes displaying inspection results stored in RAM 252 and displaying screens operated by the user. When the user sets inspection settings using UI unit 257, the inspection setting information is saved to RAM 252.

[0059] The data control unit 2502 receives preview images, RIP images, and image assignment information from the image forming apparatus 100 via NWI / F255 and stores them in RAM 252. Upon receiving a notification that an inspection job has started, it generates a new inspection job and stores it in RAM 252. It also stores scanned images sent via the communication I / F254 in RAM 252. Furthermore, it notifies the inspection unit 110 of the inspection results from the inspection processing unit 2504 and the inspection setting information stored in RAM 252. Upon receiving a registration completion notification from the reference image generation unit 2503 (described later), it notifies the image forming apparatus 100 that registration is complete.

[0060] The reference image generation unit 2503 saves the inspection settings received by the UI unit 257 to the RAM 252. It also generates a reference image from the RIP image and image assignment information and saves it as the reference image to the RAM 252. Furthermore, it determines whether it is the final sheet based on the final sheet flag and image assignment information.

[0061] The inspection processing control unit 2504 controls the inspection processing unit 256. The following is an overview of the print image inspection. First, the scanned image stored in RAM 252 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 a threshold, the inspected pixel is judged to have passed. Note that the threshold will differ for each inspection level. This inspection proceeds for each reference image corresponding to each scanned image. Note that if a print position shift occurs that exceeds a certain threshold relative to the reference image during alignment, the position shift inspection is judged to have failed.

[0062] 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 defects in the printed material, the type of defects detected (spots or streaks), and the location of the defects, 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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 matching results in the data are found to be a pass, it is judged as a fail; if they are not found to be a 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 the UI unit 257.

[0065] Next, let's explain the overview of the matching check. Similar to the data check described above, it extracts text, barcodes, and QR codes from the scanned image. In the matching check, 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 check are stored in RAM252, for example, the results of text and barcodes read from printed materials, the results of data matching or not matching, and the position information of the read characters and barcodes when displayed in UI unit 257.

[0066] 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 the RAM 252. The user recognizes the inspection results when they are displayed on the UI unit 257.

[0067] The notification unit 2505 notifies the inspection unit 110 via the communication interface 254. It transmits the inspection operation mode and the inspection results from the inspection processing control unit 2504, which are stored in the RAM 252, to the inspection unit 110.

[0068] 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 are comprised of the accessory control unit 2201.

[0069] 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 the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection unit 110 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 when the paper output is complete.

[0070] <Job Settings> Next, using Figure 4, we will explain the selection of inspection methods for inspection jobs and the operation of print jobs in the present invention.

[0071] The inspection method selection unit 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 is executed by the CPU 231, displays the screen on the UI unit 235, and accepts input from the user. The received input is stored in the RAM 232. Print jobs generated on the client PC 130 are sent to the information processing device 140 for management.

[0072] If the user selects "ON" for inspection in the inspection mode setting section 402, the following property settings are performed. A print job with "ON" for inspection is referred to as an "inspection job." If "OFF" is selected, for example, sections 403-404 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.

[0073] When the Print button 405 is pressed, the print control unit 2005 of the image forming apparatus 100 performs normal printing operations. 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 apparatus 150 inspects the entire image at the standard level. If "Preset1" to "Preset10" are selected, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs inspection based on the pre-specified area and level. If "New Registration" is selected, the user creates a new inspection setting, and the inspection control unit 2504 performs inspection based on that setting. When "Preset1~10" is selected, the inspection control unit 2504 performs inspection of the reference image based on the pre-specified area and level. The inspection settings for "Preset1~10" are stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection apparatus 150, and when the Print button 405 is pressed, the reference image generation unit 2503 assigns the inspection setting to the reference image.

[0074] When "New Registration" is selected, the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 displays the inspection setting screen 700 shown in Figure 7 on the UI unit 257 after the preview image has been received. Figure 7 will be explained in detail below. The user creates new inspection settings for the preview image, and the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 performs the inspection based on those settings. Note that when "Default" or "Preset1~10" is selected in the inspection setting unit 403 and the Print button 405 is pressed, the display control unit 2501 does not display the inspection setting screen 700.

[0075] When the Print button 405 of the inspection method selection unit 400 is pressed by the user, the inspection device 150 executes an inspection setting registration job or the actual print job according to the settings of the inspection operation setting unit 404, which will be described later.

[0076] In the inspection operation setting unit 404, the user selects the registration of inspection settings and the combination of printing operations for the print job. If "Register only" is selected, the reference image generation unit 2503 of the inspection device 150 only saves the preview image and registers the inspection settings. If "Print only" is selected, printing by the print control unit 2005 of the image forming apparatus 100 and the generation and inspection of the reference image by the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 are performed in parallel using the pre-registered inspection settings. If "Register & Print" is selected, the "Register only" operation and the "Print only" operation described above are performed consecutively.

[0077] The process of generating preview images and storing inspection settings will be described later using the flowchart in Figure 6. Finally, when the Print button 405 is pressed, the display control unit 2301 saves the settings entered in 402-404 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 are explained in Figure 5. When the Close button 401 is pressed, the screen is closed without saving the settings of this screen to RAM 232.

[0078] <Job Execution Flow> Next, the job execution flow in the information processing device 140 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5. This flowchart is realized when the CPU 241 loads the program code stored in the ROM 243 into the RAM 242, and then reads and executes the program code loaded into the RAM 242.

[0079] In step S501, the data control unit 2403, executed by the CPU 241, determines whether the setting value set by the inspection operation setting unit 404 shown in Figure 4 is "print only". If it is set to "print only", proceed to step S505. If anything other than "print only" is set, proceed to step S502.

[0080] In step S502, the data control unit 2403 sends an inspection setting registration job to the image forming apparatus 100. Here, it sends a preview image to be displayed on the UI unit 257 of the inspection apparatus 150 when the user sets the inspection settings. The preview image is a RIP image with a lower resolution than the print version, as it is for display purposes. It is displayed to make it easier for the user to set the position and area of ​​the inspection settings, and is not used for the actual inspection.

[0081] In step S503, it is determined whether or not a notification of completion of registration of the inspection settings has been received from the data control unit 2403, which is executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150. If a notification of registration completion has been received, the process proceeds to step S504. If no notification of registration completion has been received, the process waits. The inspection setting registration operation will be described later using Figure 6.

[0082] In step 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 step S504), the process proceeds to step S505. If "Register Only" is set (NO in step S504), the process ends.

[0083] In step S505, the data control unit 2403 sends the main print job for inspection to the image forming apparatus 100. As explained using the block diagram in Figure 3, in this print job, the image forming apparatus 100 performs printing at the printer unit 209 and transmission of RIP images to the inspection apparatus 150 in parallel. Once all RIP image transmission and printing processes are completed, this process is terminated.

[0084] <Inspection settings registration flow> Figure 6 is an operation flowchart of the inspection device 150 when registering the inspection settings for the inspection. The program for the inspection device 150 related to this flowchart is stored in ROM 253, read into RAM 252, and executed by CPU 251.

[0085] 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 to start an inspection setting registration job. Next, the process proceeds to S602 and repeats until preview images of all sheets are stored in the RAM 252 of the inspection device 150. In S603, the data control unit 2502 receives the preview images generated by the image processing control unit 2402 of the information processing device 140. Print setting information may also be received from the information processing device 140 or the client PC 130.

[0086] Next, in S604, the reference image generation unit 2503 registers the image received in S603 as a preview image in RAM 252. The data control unit 2502 saves the preview image in RAM 252. The process proceeds to step S605, and steps S602 to S605 are repeated until the reference image generation unit 2503 determines that the registration of preview images for all sheets has been completed. This process is repeated until the data control unit 2502 receives information that it is the last sheet included in the preview images.

[0087] When the reference image generation unit 2503 determines that all preview image registrations have been completed, it proceeds to step S606 and accepts inspection settings from the user. The inspection settings will be explained in detail using Figure 7 below. In step S607, it is determined whether the OK button 711 on the inspection settings screen 700 has been pressed. Steps S606 and S607 are repeated until the OK button 711 is pressed, and inspection settings are accepted. If it is determined in step S607 that the OK button 711 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S608, and the reference image generation unit 2503 saves the inspection settings received from the user to the RAM 252. The data control unit 2502 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 that the inspection settings registration is complete, and this flow ends.

[0088] <Test Settings> Next, we will explain the inspection settings using Figure 7.

[0089] Figure 7 shows an example of an inspection setting screen 700 displayed by the display control unit 2501 of the inspection device 150 to the UI unit 257 for setting inspection parameters. Button 701 is a preview image change button, used to change the preview image. Button 702 is an inspection area selection button, pressed by the user when they want to select an already set area. Button 703 is an inspection area deletion button, pressed by the user when they want to delete a selected area. Button 704 is a button for rotating the image displayed in area 705. Area 705 is a display area that displays the loaded preview images. If there are multiple sheets to load, the displayed image is switched using button 710. Button 711 is an OK button for saving the settings of screen 700. When the OK button 711 is pressed, the reference image generation unit 2503 saves the inspection settings to RAM 252. Here, the page number of the preview image is linked to the inspection settings and saved. For example, if it's the inspection setting for the first page of preview images, it would be inspection setting 1, and the inspection setting for the second page would be inspection setting 2.

[0090] Button 712 is a cancel button used to stop the inspection job without saving the settings on screen 700. Button 721 is pressed by the user when creating a new print image inspection area. After pressing the button, the user sets the inspection area on the preview image displayed in area 705. Area 706 shows an example of setting a print image inspection area. Button 722 is pressed 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 preview image displayed in area 705. Area 707 shows an example of setting a character inspection area. Area 708 shows an example of setting a barcode inspection area. Button 723 is pressed by the user when creating a new match inspection area. After pressing the button, the user sets the inspection area on the preview image displayed in area 705. Area 709 shows an example of setting a match inspection area.

[0091] In Figure 7, regions 706, 707, 708, and 709 are shown with the same black dotted line, but they may be distinguished 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 could also be made selectable by the user.

[0092] 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 inspection 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, and increment / decrement numbers.

[0093] Setting item 731 is for positional misalignment inspection, and sets the acceptable amount of misalignment of the print position relative to 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 (Not Valid).

[0094] 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, management is done on a page-by-page basis rather than a sheet-by-sheet basis, so the scope setting 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.

[0095] Setting item 734 is for setting round-shaped defects (dots) and linear defects (streaks), and sets the detection level for each. The detection level is a parameter set in stages to determine how large a defect is considered to be a defect for each characteristic of the detected defect. For example, there are five levels from level 1 to level 5, and level 5 can detect thinner and smaller defects than level 1. Also, 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 defects (dots) and inspection level 4 for defects (streaks).

[0096] The setting area 735 will be described in detail in Embodiment 2 and later. As explained using the block diagram in Figure 3, the preview image displays only one set of images in the print job, and the user registers inspection settings for only one set. When the content of the images differs but the arrangement of the print images is the same, periodically re-assigning the inspection area eliminates the need for the user to repeatedly set the same inspection settings. The method of applying one set of inspection areas to all pages of the print job for inspection will be explained in detail using the inspection operation flowchart in Figure 8.

[0097] <Inspection Flow> Next, the processing of the inspection operation will be explained using a flowchart. The program for the inspection device related to this flowchart is stored in the ROM 253 of the inspection device 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 device is stored in the ROM 243 of the information processing device 140, read into the RAM 242, and executed by the CPU 241.

[0098] Figure 8 is an operation flowchart of the inspection process in the inspection device 150.

[0099] In step S801, the data control unit 2502, executed by the CPU 251 of the inspection device 150, receives a notification from the image forming apparatus 100 to start the print job. The print control unit 2005, executed by the CPU 201 of the image forming apparatus 100, instructs the print unit 209 to print. The printed paper is transported from the image forming apparatus 100 to the inspection unit 110. Upon arrival at the inspection unit 110, the image reading control unit 2101, executed by the CPU 211 of the inspection unit 110, instructs the image reading unit 216 to scan.

[0100] In step S820, the counter is initialized. The counter is a number that indicates which page of the inspection settings should be assigned to the current RIP image, and its initial value is 1. This value is stored in RAM252.

[0101] In step S802, the data control unit 2002 of the image forming apparatus 100 transmits the RIP image to the inspection apparatus 150. The data control unit 2502 of the inspection apparatus 150 receives the RIP image and image ID from the image forming apparatus 100, associates the RIP image and image ID, and stores them in RAM 252.

[0102] In step S803, the same examination setting as the counter number is assigned to the RIP image. If the counter number is 1, examination setting 1 is assigned to the current RIP image.

[0103] In step S804, the reference image generation unit 2503 associates the RIP image with the inspection settings and saves them to the RAM 252.

[0104] In step S805, the data control unit 2502 determines whether the counter number is the maximum counter value. The maximum counter value is the number of pages of inspection settings. For example, if 4 pages of inspection settings are saved, this maximum counter value will be 4. If the data control unit 2502 determines that the current counter number matches the maximum counter value, it proceeds to step S806. If the current counter number is not the maximum counter value, it proceeds to step S807.

[0105] In step S806, the data control unit 2502 overwrites the counter value to 1 and saves it to RAM 252. In step S807, the data control unit 2502 saves the current counter value plus 1 as the new counter value to RAM 252. For example, if the current counter value is 1, the new counter value will be 2. Here, for example, if the image ID of the received RIP image is 5, the counter value becomes 1 after step S806, so inspection setting 1 is assigned to the RIP image with image ID 5. Furthermore, inspection setting 2 is assigned to the RIP image with image ID 6. In this way, the inspection area for 4 pages can be repeatedly assigned to jobs with more pages.

[0106] Next, the process proceeds to step S808, where the data control unit 2502 receives image assignment information from the image forming apparatus 100. Upon receiving the image assignment information, the reference image generation unit 2503, executed by the CPU 251, refers to the image ID of the received image assignment information. The reference image generation unit 2503 then reads the RIP image with the matching image ID (the RIP image received in step S802 and assigned inspection settings in step S803) from the RAM 252. Using the read RIP image and image assignment information, a reference image is generated, and the generated reference image and image assignment information are saved in the RAM 252. Since the image assignment information includes information that is determined at the time of printing, 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, and generates a reference image.

[0107] Next, in step S809, 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. The image processing control unit 2402, executed by the CPU 241 of the information processing device 140, assigns an image ID to the image.

[0108] In step S810, the inspection processing control unit 2504, which is executed by 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 S808 from the RAM 252.

[0109] In step S811, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs a positional misalignment inspection on the scan image received in step S809 using the reference image read out in step S808. The positional misalignment inspection is as described using the block diagram of the software configuration of the inspection device 150 shown in Figure 3.

[0110] Once the misalignment inspection is complete, the process proceeds to step S812, where the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines whether the misalignment inspection was successful. If it is successful, the process proceeds to step S813; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S814.

[0111] In step S813, the inspection processing control unit 2504 performs pattern inspection and data inspection on the scanned image received in step S809 using the reference image read in step S808. The pattern inspection and data inspection are as described using the block diagram of the software configuration of the inspection device 150 shown in Figure 3.

[0112] Once the pattern inspection and data inspection are complete, the process proceeds to step S814. If no pattern inspection and data inspection areas are set within the reference image, step S813 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S814.

[0113] In step S814, the inspection processing control unit 2504 determines from the image assignment information whether the inspected sheet is the final sheet of the inspection job. If it is not the final sheet, the process returns to step S802 and continues generating reference images and performing inspections until it becomes the final sheet. If it is the final sheet, this process ends.

[0114] As explained above, according to this embodiment, by performing inspection settings for only one set, it is possible to easily apply inspection settings to VDP jobs where the content arrangement is common and the content related to the image is variable, and to perform inspection correctly. Specifically, according to this embodiment, although a reference image is obtained for each set because the content related to the image is variable, inspection settings are performed for only one set, and the inspection settings for one set are set for each set. This reduces the burden on the user and the possibility of setting errors due to the complicated procedure of inspection settings, and makes it possible to perform inspection correctly.

[0115] Embodiment 1 described a method for repeatedly setting inspection settings on all pages. Subsequent embodiments will describe inspection setting methods that take into account more versatile print jobs.

[0116] <Embodiment 2> This embodiment describes an effective inspection setting method for jobs where the user wants to determine the repetition range of the inspection area themselves, that is, for jobs where the inspection area is not repeatedly assigned to all pages of the job. Below, Embodiment 2 will be described in terms of the differences from Embodiment 1 described above. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0117] Figure 10(a) shows the setting item 736 displayed within the setting area 735. The setting item 736 is an item that allows you to select whether or not to repeat the inspection settings for all pages of the job when performing an inspection using the inspection settings being configured. If you check the setting item 736 (on), the registered inspection settings will be repeatedly applied and the inspection will be performed for all pages as described in Embodiment 1, and if you do not check it (off), the inspection will be performed using the inspection settings up to the page where the inspection settings were registered.

[0118] Figure 9 shows a characteristic process in this embodiment. 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. Similarly, 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. Here, we will describe steps that differ from those in Figure 8.

[0119] The on / off information for setting item 736 is stored in RAM 252. When the notification to start this print job is received in step S801 shown in Figure 9, the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 determines the on / off information for setting item 736 stored in RAM 252, and if it is on, it performs the processing described in Embodiment 1. If it is off, the subsequent processing is different.

[0120] First, in step S815, the data control unit 2502 determines whether the counter value is 0 or not. If the counter value is 0, it does not assign any inspection settings and proceeds to the following step S808. Also, in step S805, if the data control unit 2502 determines that the counter value is the maximum value of the counter, it overwrites the counter value to 0 in the following step S816 and saves it to the RAM 252.

[0121] As a result of this process, if, for example, only four pages of inspection settings are registered, when the fifth page of the RIP image is received, this counter will be 0 and no inspection settings will be assigned.

[0122] According to this embodiment, by allowing the user to select whether or not to repeat the inspection settings on the inspection settings screen 700, inspection settings that are more suitable for the job the user wants to inspect can be configured.

[0123] <Embodiment 3> This embodiment describes how to configure a job where you do not want to repeat certain pages. For example, if the content of the same layout is repeated on pages other than the front and back covers, such as in a VDP job, you would want to repeat the inspection settings for the pages in between, excluding only the front and back covers. Also, if inserts are inserted in the middle of the job, you would want to skip the inspection of the inserts since they are not deliverables. This describes how to configure the inspection settings for such jobs. Below, the differences between Embodiment 3 and Embodiments 1 and 2 described above will be explained. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as in Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0124] The characteristic processes of this embodiment will be explained in the flowchart of Figure 12. Figure 12 shows the characteristic processes of this embodiment. The program for the inspection apparatus related to this flowchart 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. Here, we will explain the steps that differ from those in Figure 9.

[0125] Inspection settings are assigned from step S815 onwards, but the conditions are determined in the preceding step S817. An example of a condition determined in step S817 is to have the user specify the range of pages to be inspected and then determine if the current page is within that range.

[0126] Figure 10(b) shows the setting item 737 displayed within the setting area 735. The setting item 737 is used to specify the range over which the inspection settings will be repeated. By entering the start page 738 and end page 739 in the setting item 737, the inspection settings will be repeatedly applied and the inspection will be performed, excluding a portion of the data.

[0127] The information for the start page 738 and end page 739 of setting item 737 is stored in RAM 252. When the notification to start this print job is received in step S801 shown in Figure 12, the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 reads the information for the start page 738 and end page 739 stored in RAM 252. In step S817, the data control unit 2502 compares the image ID of the RIP image received in step S802 with the start page 738 and end page 739. If the value of the image ID is greater than or equal to the value of the start page 738 and less than or equal to the value of the end page 739, the process proceeds to step S803. If the value of the image ID is less than the value of the start page 738 or greater than the value of the end page 739, the process proceeds to step S808.

[0128] For jobs that include a front and back cover, repeatedly assigning check settings from the first page will cause misalignment due to the presence of the cover, preventing proper inspection. Therefore, this process allows you to, for example, when inspecting a 102-page job that includes the front and back covers, set the starting page 738 to 2 and the ending page 739 to 101. This allows you to repeatedly assign check settings to the range from page 2 to page 101, excluding the front and back covers.

[0129] Furthermore, for jobs that include a back cover, or jobs that print a summary of configuration information after printing the main text, the user may be allowed to specify how many times the inspection settings should be repeatedly assigned starting from the first page.

[0130] Furthermore, the characteristic processes of this embodiment will be explained in the flowchart of Figure 13. The program for the inspection apparatus related to this flowchart 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.

[0131] Figure 10(c) shows setting item 740, which is displayed within the setting area 735. Setting item 740 is used to set how many times the inspection settings being configured will be repeatedly assigned to all pages of the job. The inspection settings will be repeatedly assigned and the inspection will be performed the number of times specified in setting item 741. The number entered in setting item 741 is stored in RAM 252 as the maximum value of the repetition counter.

[0132] When the start notification for this print job is received in step S801 as shown in Figure 13, the inspection processing control unit 2504 of the inspection device 150 reads the maximum value of the repeat counter and the number of the repeat counter from the setting item 741 stored in RAM 252. First, in step S820, the repeat counter is initialized. The repeat counter, which is a number indicating the current number of repetitions, has an initial value of 1 and is stored in RAM 252.

[0133] In step S805, if the data control unit 2502 determines that the counter value matches the maximum counter value, in step S806 it overwrites the counter value to 1 and saves it to RAM 252, then proceeds to step S818. In step S805, if the current counter value is not the maximum counter value, the data control unit 2502 proceeds to step S807.

[0134] In step S818, the data control unit 2502 stores the number obtained by adding 1 to the current repeat counter number in RAM 252 as the new repeat count number. For example, if the current repeat counter number is 3, the new repeat counter number will be 4.

[0135] The process proceeds to step S819, where the data control unit 2502 determines whether the current number in the repeat counter is the maximum value of the repeat counter plus 1. For example, if the maximum value of the repeat counter is 20, it determines whether the current number in the repeat counter matches 21. If they match, the process proceeds to step S816, where the data control unit 2502 overwrites the counter number with 0 and saves it to RAM2. If they do not match, the process proceeds to step S808 and continues.

[0136] This process means that, for example, if four pages of inspection settings are registered and the number of repetitions is specified as 20, the four pages will be allocated 20 times, and after that, no further assignments of inspection settings will be made. Since the back cover, which cannot be re-assigned to inspection settings, and the summary information sheet printed at the end of the job will not have inspection settings assigned to them, it becomes possible to set repetitions for only the desired pages.

[0137] Another example of a condition to be determined in step S817 in Figure 12 is, for example, whether the received RIP image is blank data. In step S817, the data control unit 2502 determines whether the RIP image is blank based on the image ID of the RIP image received in step S802. The reference image generation unit 2503 determines that the received RIP image is not blank data if the image ID is 1 or greater, and proceeds to the processing in step S803. On the other hand, if the image ID is less than 1, it can be determined that the image is blank because the image ID of a blank image is 0, and the process proceeds to step S808.

[0138] Similar to the previous example, in jobs where insert sheets are used to divide the number of copies midway through the job, assigning an inspection area to the insert sheets will cause the repetition settings to be misaligned, preventing proper inspection. This process allows the inspection settings to be repetitively assigned to sheets other than the insert sheets.

[0139] As described above, this setting is effective when you want to avoid repeating the inspection settings on certain pages. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for users to manually remove the page settings that they want to exclude from the inspection settings, making it an effective means of improving accuracy and user convenience.

[0140] (Embodiment 4) In previous embodiments, we used as an example a job in which the number of pages in the registered inspection settings and the number of pages per record during printing were the same. However, some VDP jobs have multiple records, and the number of pages varies depending on the record (in this embodiment, page-variable VDP jobs are referred to as VDP jobs). In this embodiment, although the number of pages in a VDP job is variable, the first page of the first record corresponds to the first page of the second record, and the second page of the first record corresponds to the second page of the second record, as in the previous embodiments.

[0141] This is a job (first VDP job) where six pages of inspection settings are registered, but some records print all six pages, while others only print four pages. Conversely, there are also cases where only four pages of inspection settings are registered, but there are records that require six pages of inspection (second VDP job).

[0142] For example, in the case of the first VDP job, if the number of pages for repeating the inspection settings remains fixed, the inspection settings will become misaligned and the inspection cannot be performed correctly. Specifically, if inspection settings are registered for 6 pages, and record A is printed on page 4 and record B on page 2 in order, when inspecting record B, the system will end up comparing page 5 with page 1 and page 6 with page 2.

[0143] Furthermore, for example, in the case of a second VDP job, if a sheet does not have inspection settings registered, an inspection error may occur and printing may stop. This section describes a method for assigning inspection settings that can handle jobs where the number of pages varies depending on the record. Note that parts not described in detail are the same as in Embodiments 1 to 3.

[0144] The characteristic processes of this embodiment are explained in the flowchart of Figure 11. The program for the inspection apparatus related to this flowchart 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.

[0145] In step S821, the data control unit 2502 initializes the old record number. The old record number is a variable used to store the record number of the previous page; its initial value is 1, and it is stored in RAM 252.

[0146] In step S822, the data control unit 2502 receives the record number. In the following step S823, it determines whether the old record number matches the record number received in step S822. If they match, the process proceeds to step S825; otherwise, it proceeds to step S824. In step S824, the data control unit 2502 overwrites the counter value to 1 and saves it to RAM 252. The process then proceeds to step S826.

[0147] In step S825, the data control unit 2502 overwrites the old record number with the record number received in step S822 and saves it to RAM 252. In step S826, the data control unit 2502 determines whether an inspection setting with the same number as the counter is registered. If a setting with the same number as the counter is registered, the unit proceeds to step S803; otherwise, the unit proceeds to step S827.

[0148] In step S827, the reference image generation unit 2503 sets a standard level pattern inspection across the entire received RIP image, links the RIP image to the inspection area, and saves it in RAM 252. The process then proceeds to step S807.

[0149] These processes allow, for example, if six pages of inspection settings are registered, to assign inspection settings 1 through 4 even if a single record being inspected consists of four pages. Conversely, if only four pages of inspection settings are registered and you want to inspect a six-page sheet, you can assign inspection settings 1 through 4 to the first four pages, and then apply a standard level image inspection to the entire fifth and sixth pages. This not only allows for VDP jobs with a variable number of pages, but also allows the inspection to continue without stopping due to an inspection error, even if there are pages for which no inspection settings are registered.

[0150] In this embodiment, we have given an example where the entire page is inspected at the standard level for pages where no inspection settings are registered. However, it is also possible to intentionally stop the process with an inspection error to prompt the user to check the inspection settings.

[0151] (Other embodiments) Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions herein.

[0152] 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. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0153] 100 Image forming apparatus 110 Inspection Units 120 Large Capacity Stacker 130 client PCs 140 Information Processing Devices 150 Inspection devices

Claims

1. A printing inspection system comprising at least two sets of paper, each set representing a repeating unit of paper, and containing at least one piece of content, A first setting means for setting an inspection area for each reference image included in the first set of first reference image group, A second setting means sets the inspection area set by the first setting means for each reference image included in a second set of reference images, which has the same content arrangement as the first reference image group but different content related to the image pattern. An inspection means that compares a scanned image obtained by scanning the printed material with each reference image in the first reference image group and each reference image in the second reference image group based on the inspection area, An inspection system characterized by having the following features.

2. The inspection system according to claim 1, further comprising an inspection setting means that sets an inspection setting of whether or not to set the inspection area for each reference image included in the second set of second reference image group, using the second setting means.

3. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein, in the inspection of printed materials having at least two sets, the inspection setting means is further characterized by having an inspection setting means for setting how many times the inspection area set by the first setting means is set for each reference image included in different reference image groups.

4. The inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that the second setting means has an inspection setting means for setting which pages of the reference image group corresponding to the at least two sets to set the inspection area.

5. A receiving means for receiving print data for generating the aforementioned printed material, The inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first setting means does not accept the setting of the inspection area when the print data includes blank data.

6. A first receiving means for receiving the number of reference images included in the first set of reference images, A second receiving means that receives a plurality of image data corresponding to the number of reference images received by the aforementioned receiving means, The inspection system according to claim 1, further comprising a storage means for storing image data received by the second receiving means as the first reference image group.

7. A determination means for automatically determining the number of reference images included in the first set of first reference image groups, A second receiving means that receives a plurality of image data corresponding to the number of reference images determined by the aforementioned determination means, The inspection system according to claim 1, further comprising a storage means for storing image data received by the second receiving means as the first reference image group.

8. Having a receiving means for receiving print jobs for printing printed materials, The receiving means is Before receiving the print job, a registration job including image data relating to the first reference image group is received. Based on the completion of setting the inspection area for the first set of reference images, the print job is received. The inspection system according to feature 1.

9. A printing inspection system for printed materials in which there are multiple sets of paper sheets that form repeating units, the arrangement of the content on the paper sheets in each set is the same, but the content related to the image differs, A registration method for registering a reference image, A receiving means for receiving an inspection area for the aforementioned reference image, Setting means for setting the received inspection area, The system includes an inspection means for comparing the printed material with a reference image based on the inspection area, The receiving means receives an inspection area corresponding to one set for a reference image corresponding to one set. The setting means repeatedly sets the inspection area corresponding to one set to the reference image corresponding to each of the remaining sets from among a plurality of reference images, including the reference image corresponding to one set. An inspection system characterized by the following features.

10. The inspection system according to claim 9, further comprising inspection setting means for setting whether or not to repeatedly set the reference image corresponding to each of the remaining sets of the plurality of reference images.

11. The inspection system according to claim 9, characterized in that, in the inspection of printed materials including the aforementioned multiple sets, the inspection setting means is used to set the inspection area set by the setting means to repeatedly set the reference image corresponding to each of the remaining sets a number of times.

12. The inspection system according to claim 9, characterized in that it has an inspection setting means for setting which of the above-mentioned plurality of reference images the inspection area should be set for, from which pages to which pages of reference images.

13. A receiving means for receiving print data for generating the aforementioned printed material, The inspection system according to claim 9, characterized in that the setting means does not accept the setting of the inspection area when the print data includes blank data.

14. A first receiving means for receiving the number of reference images corresponding to the aforementioned set, A second receiving means that receives a plurality of image data corresponding to the number of reference images received by the aforementioned receiving means, The inspection system according to claim 9, further comprising a storage means for storing image data received by the second receiving means as a reference image corresponding to the set.

15. A determination means for automatically determining the number of reference images corresponding to the aforementioned set, A second receiving means that receives a plurality of image data corresponding to the number of reference images determined by the aforementioned determination means, The inspection system according to claim 9, further comprising a storage means for storing image data received by the second receiving means as a reference image corresponding to the set.

16. Having a receiving means for receiving print jobs for printing printed materials, The receiving means is Before receiving the print job, a registration job is received that includes image data relating to the reference image corresponding to the set. Based on the completion of setting the inspection area for the reference image corresponding to the set, the print job is received. The inspection system according to feature 9.

17. The inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first reference image group and the second reference image group are RIP images generated from print data.

18. The aforementioned printed material includes, in addition to the content relating to the image, character recognition or code content. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the inspection means performs data inspection to inspect the content of the character recognition or code.

19. Image forming means for forming an image on paper, A transport means for transporting the paper formed by the image forming means, An image reading means for reading an image of a sheet of paper being transported by the transport means, The inspection system according to claim 1, characterized by having the following features.

20. The inspection system according to claim 9, characterized in that the reference image is a RIP image generated from print data.

21. The aforementioned printed material includes, in addition to the content relating to the image, character recognition or code content. The inspection system according to claim 9, characterized in that the inspection means performs data inspection to inspect the content of the character recognition or code.

22. Image forming means for forming an image on paper, A transport means for transporting the paper formed by the image forming means, An image reading means for reading an image of a sheet of paper being transported by the transport means, The inspection system according to claim 9, characterized by having the following features.

Images