Printed Image Inspection System

Abstract

To solve the following problem in which a result of data inspection fails unintentionally due to mismatch of page order since a result of reading a character string or a barcode from a printed product does not match the order of referred correct character strings when a correct image is inspected with different print settings (for example, a change of the order of paper discharge) which are different from registered print settings.SOLUTION: An inspection apparatus connectable with an image forming apparatus includes: extraction means configured to extract a character string from a designated area on a scanned image acquired by scanning a printed product with an image printed thereon based on a job; inspection means configured to inspect the printed product by comparing the character string extracted by the extraction unit with a correct value referred to from reference data; and acquisition means configured to acquire information about the job. The inspection means inspects the printed product, based on the acquired information about the job, by referring to the correct value from the reference data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Traditionally, inspection of printed matter has been done manually, but in recent years, devices that perform inspection automatically as post-processing for printing presses have been used. In such inspection devices, first, the correct image data is registered. Next, the input image data is printed out on paper by an image forming device, and the data printed out on the paper is read by an image reading device configured inside the inspection device. Using an inspection PC capable of real-time processing, the image data read by the image reading device is compared with the correct image data initially registered to detect abnormal images in the printed matter. The inspection to detect abnormal images in the printed matter is called print image inspection.

[0003] In addition to print image inspection, variable area parts such as character strings and barcodes are also inspected in variable printing. For example, there is a data readability inspection to check whether character strings and barcodes are readable, and a data matching inspection to match the read result of character strings and barcodes with the correct character string referenced from the variable data. The data readability inspection and data matching inspection are called data inspections.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, data is substituted from a database into a variable area where the printed content can be changed, and a technology is proposed for performing inspection by comparing the data extracted from the variable area in a scanned image with the database. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-233820 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in the method of Patent Document 1, when inspecting with print settings different from the print settings in which the correct image was registered (for example, changing the paper ejection order), the result of reading the character string or barcode from the printed matter will not correspond to the order of the referenced correct character string. Then, the result of the data inspection will be unintentionally NG due to the difference in page order. Therefore, when inspecting data by specifying any page or changing the order, it was necessary to change the referenced correct character string at the same time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention is an inspection device connectable to an image forming device, comprising: an extraction means for extracting a character string from a specified area on a scanned image acquired by scanning a printed material on which an image is printed based on a job; an inspection means for inspecting the printed material by comparing the character string extracted by the extraction means with a correct value referenced from reference data; and an acquisition means for acquiring information regarding the job, wherein the inspection means inspects the printed material by referencing the correct value from the reference data based on the acquired information regarding the job. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, the page to be printed is identified based on the print page settings at the time of inspection, and the correct answer character string of the reference data is changed, making it possible to inspect data that matches the correct answer character string. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an inspection system according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is an internal configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram of a registration process of a correct image and an inspection setting in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Sequence diagram of inspection processing in embodiment 1 [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a process for extracting a correct image and variable data corresponding to a print page in this embodiment. [Figure 6] Example of a UI screen for print settings for registering a correct image in the first embodiment [Figure 7] 1 is an example of a UI screen for inputting inspection settings in this embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 is an example of a UI screen related to print settings during inspection in embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Example of variable data configuration in this embodiment [Figure 10] Example of inspection data structure when inspection is set in this embodiment [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram of a registration process of a correct image and an inspection setting in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Sequence diagram of inspection processing in embodiment 2 [Figure 13] 13 is an example of a UI screen related to print settings during inspection in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the components described in these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0011] First embodiment 1 is a diagram showing an overall system configuration including an inspection device (inspection device) according to an embodiment of the present invention. This system is composed of an image forming device 100, an inspection PC 110, a client PC 120, a printer server 130, a network 140, and a communication cable 150. Note that in this embodiment, the inspection device is a general term for the inspection PC 110, the combination of the inspection PC 110 and the inspection unit 102, or the combination of the image forming device 100 and the inspection PC 110.

[0012] The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data, for example, manuscript data sent from a client PC 120 or a printer server 130. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image processing unit 101, an inspection unit 102, and a finisher 103, and is connected to the image processing unit 101, the inspection unit 102, and the finisher 103 via a communication cable which is an internal bus.

[0013] The image processing unit 101 performs image processing in accordance with print settings based on various input data, and outputs the processed image as a printout on a recording sheet.

[0014] The inspection unit 102 receives the printed matter output from the image processing unit 101, and obtains a read image (scanned image) by scanning and reading the printed matter. The read image obtained here is image data for inspection on the inspection PC to see if there is an abnormal image. Here, an abnormal image is an image that reduces the quality of the printed matter. For example, it is a round abnormal image (dot) that occurs when color material adheres to an unintended place during printing, a color loss that occurs when sufficient color material does not adhere to an intended place, or a linear abnormal image (streak). The obtained image data is transferred to the inspection PC 110 described later via the communication cable 150, and the inspection PC 110 inspects whether there is an abnormal image in the printed matter. The inspection unit 102 then obtains the inspection result from the inspection PC 110.

[0015] The finisher 103 receives the output paper inspected by the inspection unit 102, and switches the paper discharge destination based on the inspection result of the inspection PC 110, and performs post-processing (bookbinding, etc.) as necessary.

[0016] Image forming apparatus 100 is connected to inspection PC 110, client PC 120, and printer server 130 via network 140. Then, image forming apparatus 100 is connected to inspection PC 110 via communication cable 150, and communicates image data and inspection results when inspecting. In this embodiment, inspection is performed by inspection PC 110, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and an in-line inspection machine that consistently performs image formation, inspection, post-processing, and paper discharge may also be used. The detailed configuration of image forming apparatus 100 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0017] The inspection PC 110 is a PC for inspecting an image read from a printed material using the inspection unit 102, and includes a device control unit 111 and a user interface 118 (hereinafter referred to as a UI unit). Furthermore, the device control unit 111 is configured from a controller board, and a CPU 112, RAM 113, ROM 114, communication I / F unit 115, storage unit 116, inspection processing unit 117, and image processing unit 119 are implemented on the device control unit. Note that in this embodiment, communication between the modules is performed via an internal system bus (not shown).

[0018] The CPU 112 reads out a main program from the storage unit 116 according to an initial program in the storage unit 116 and stores it in the RAM 113. The RAM 113 is used as a main memory for storing programs and for working. The ROM 114 is used to temporarily store data created during program processing. The communication I / F unit 115 is used when communicating via the network 140 or the communication cable 150. The storage unit 116 is used to store large amounts of data such as program data and image data. The inspection processing unit 117 calculates a difference value between a correct image stored in the RAM 113 as a correct image and a scanned image to be inspected in order to inspect whether or not there is an abnormal image such as a stain or a color loss in the image data acquired by the inspection unit 102. Next, the inspection processing unit 117 performs inspection by comparing the calculated difference value with the inspection threshold value (contrast and size) of each inspection item for each pixel. The results of the inspection are stored in the RAM 113, and include, for example, information on whether or not there is an abnormal image in the printout, and position information of the abnormal image when the type of detected abnormal image (such as a dot or a streak) is displayed on the UI section 118. The inspection results are then transmitted to the inspection unit 102 via the communication cable 150.

[0019] The image processing unit 119 performs image processing to convert the image data into a resolution optimal for inspection.

[0020] The UI unit 118 is configured by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is a device that allows various setting values ​​or designated values ​​to be input.

[0021] The client PC 120 is a PC that is connected to the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 and accepts operations from a user, and includes a device control unit 121 and a UI unit 128. Furthermore, the device control unit 121 is configured from a controller board, and a CPU 122, a RAM 123, a ROM 124, a communication I / F unit 125, and a storage unit 126 are implemented on the device control unit. Note that the role of each device inside the client PC 120 is the same as that of the inspection PC 110, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0022] Printer server 130 is a server that performs RIP processing for printing manuscript data and document data. It also controls printing by image forming device 110 and manages print jobs, and includes device control unit 131 and user interface 138. Device control unit 131 is also configured from a controller board, and CPU 132, RAM 133, ROM 134, communication I / F unit 135, storage unit 136, and image processing unit 137 are implemented on the device control unit. Note that the roles of each device within printer server 130 are similar to those of client PC 120, except for image processing unit 137, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0023] The image processor 137 performs RIP processing on the manuscript data or document data sent from the client PC 120 in order to print it according to the print settings, and converts it into bitmapped image data. Specifically, the RIP processing for printing is processing for generating an image without reducing the resolution of 600 dpi.

[0024] The above is a description of the overall system configuration including the inspection device in the embodiment of the present invention. Note that the image forming device 100, the inspection PC 110, the client PC 120, and the printer server 130 can communicate with each other via the network 140. This is not limited to the present embodiment, and may be realized in a form in which each device is connected to another device via a network.

[0025] [Image forming device configuration] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0026] The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image processing unit 101 , an inspection unit 102 , and a finisher 103 .

[0027] The image processing unit 101 further includes a device control unit 200, a printer unit 210, a scanner unit 220, a user interface unit (UI unit) 230, and a paper feed unit 250.

[0028] The device control unit 200 receives images and documents from the network 140 and converts them into print data. The device control unit 200 is equipped with a CPU 201, a RAM 202, a storage unit 203, a communication I / F unit 204, a ROM 205, and an image processing unit 206. The role of each device is the same as that of the printer server 130, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0029] The image processing unit 206 acquires the PDL data stored in the RAM 202 and performs image processing to convert it into print data. The image processing to convert it into print data means, for example, converting the PDL data into multi-value bitmap data by performing RIP processing on the PDL data, and then converting it into binary bitmap data by performing pseudo-halftone processing such as screen processing. The binary bitmap data acquired by the image processing unit 206 is transmitted to the printer unit 210 via the communication I / F unit 204.

[0030] The printer unit 210 conveys paper (recording sheet, recording medium) from the paper feed unit 250, receives binary bitmap data generated by the device control unit 200, and prints on the paper using color materials. At this time, it issues an instruction to the printer unit 210 based on the print settings specified by the user. For example, in the case of a print setting using coated paper, the CPU 211 issues an instruction to print using a paper cassette (not shown) in the paper feed unit 250 in which coated paper is stored. Various processes from receiving the above-mentioned PDL data to printing on the paper are controlled by the device control unit 200 and the printer unit 210, and a full-color toner image is formed on the paper. The printer unit 210 is equipped with a CPU 211, a RAM 212, a communication I / F unit 214, and a ROM 215. The role of each device is the same as that of the device control unit 200, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0031] The scanner unit 220 is a device for illuminating an original image with a light source (not shown), reading the original reflected image through a lens and obtaining a read signal from a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or the like as multi-value image data of red, green, and blue.

[0032] The UI unit 230 is configured by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and other input / output devices, and is a device that can input various setting values ​​or designated values.

[0033] The paper feed unit 250 has one or more cassettes for setting paper to be printed, and is a device for feeding paper from a cassette corresponding to the paper size specified in the print settings and transporting it to the printer unit 210.

[0034] The inspection unit 102 includes a device control unit 260 and an image reading unit 270 .

[0035] The image reading unit 270 is an image reading unit that reads a printed matter conveyed from the image processing unit 101. It is a device for illuminating a printed matter, i.e., an original, with a light source (not shown), and obtaining read information obtained from a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) of a reflected image of the original through a 1:1 combination lens as multi-value image data of red, green, and blue. The image reading unit 270 in this embodiment is not limited to a CIS sensor, and may obtain image data using a CCD sensor.

[0036] The device control unit 260 controls the transfer of image data acquired by the image reading unit 270 to the inspection PC 110 (described later) via the communication cable 150. The transferred image data is then inspected on the inspection PC 110 to determine whether or not there is an abnormal image in the printed matter, and the inspection result is acquired from the inspection PC 110 and transmitted to the finisher 103. The device control unit 260 is equipped with a CPU 261, a RAM 262, a communication I / F unit 264, and a ROM 265. The role of each device is the same as that of the device control unit 200, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0037] The finisher 103 includes a device control unit 280 and a paper discharge unit 290 .

[0038] The device control unit 280 takes into consideration the print settings and the inspection results and determines the paper discharge control to be performed by the paper discharge unit 290. The device control unit 280 is equipped with a CPU 281, a RAM 282, a communication I / F unit 284, and a ROM 285. The role of each device is the same as that of the device control unit 200, so the description will be omitted.

[0039] The discharge section 290 is a device for switching the discharge destination of the printed matter conveyed from the inspection unit 102 based on the post-processing (e.g., bookbinding) and inspection results according to the print settings. For example, when switching the discharge destination of the printed matter depending on the presence or absence of an abnormal image, the finisher 103 uses the inspection results received from the inspection unit 102 to discharge printed matter without an abnormal image to a normal discharge tray, and discharge printed matter with an abnormal image to a tray other than the normal discharge tray.

[0040] The above is a description of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and is not limited to the configuration as long as it is possible to print original data and read an image to check whether or not there is an abnormal image in the printed matter.

[0041] [Inspection system correct image processing flow] 3 is a diagram showing a process flow for a user to register a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in the inspection system. In this flow, a printed matter on which manuscript data is printed is scanned by the image reading unit 270, and the acquired read image is registered as correct image data. By executing these flows, the registration work of the correct image and inspection settings performed before inspecting the printed matter is completed.

[0042] 3, the client PC 120, the printer server 130, the inspection PC 110, and the image forming apparatus 100 execute the processes described below in response to commands from the user. The client PC 120 executes the processes in response to a command from the user to start registering a correct image.

[0043] At this time, the processing of the inspection PC 110 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 by the CPU 112. The processing of the client PC 120 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 126 into the RAM 123 and controlling the device control unit 121 by the CPU 122. The processing of the printer server 130 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 136 into the RAM 133 and controlling the device control unit 131 by the CPU 132. The processing of the image forming apparatus 100 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 203 into the RAM 202 and controlling the device control unit 200 by the CPU 201.

[0044] First, in SQ301, the client PC 120 receives from the user an instruction for print settings for generating a correct image to be used in inspection.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for setting information related to print settings of a correct image.

[0046] A UI 600 in FIG. 6 is used to input print settings related to the inspection process, and is a UI screen displayed on the UI unit 128 of the client PC 120.

[0047] First, a list box 601 is a list box selected by the user when setting the paper size to be used for printing and inspection. In this embodiment, the paper that can be selected is a standard size paper within the range of paper sizes printable by the image forming apparatus 100, and a non-standard size paper that can be specified by the user. When a non-standard size paper is selected, the vertical and horizontal sizes are input separately.

[0048] Next, a radio button 602 is a radio button that is pressed by the user when selecting either double-sided or single-sided printing.

[0049] Next, a text box 603 is a text box in which the user inputs the total number of pages of the manuscript data. The number set in the text box 603 is used as the number of pages to be printed, and the processing from SQ324 to SQ328 described later is repeated.

[0050] A button 604 is pressed by the user when all print settings related to the registration of the correct image are completed and the user wishes to save the settings. A button 605 is pressed by the user when the user wishes to interrupt the settings related to the registration of the correct image. When the user presses the button 605, the information being set is discarded and the flow for registering the correct image is terminated.

[0051] The above is a description of the UI for making settings related to print settings associated with registering a correct image in this embodiment.

[0052] Next, in SQ302, the client PC 120 instructs the inspection PC 110 to prepare the image reading unit 270 for scanning based on the print settings set in SQ301 in order to generate a scanned image to be registered as a correct image.

[0053] Next, in SQ303, the inspection PC 110 saves the print settings of the correct image notified in SQ302.

[0054] Next, in SQ314, the inspection PC 110 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to prepare the image reading unit 270 for scanning.

[0055] Next, in SQ315, the image forming apparatus 100 checks the device status of the image reading unit 270 and transitions to a scan waiting state.

[0056] Next, in SQ316, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the inspection PC 110 that the image reading unit 270 is in a scan waiting state.

[0057] Next, in SQ317, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that the image reading unit 270 is in a scan waiting state and that preparation for generating a correct image is complete.

[0058] Next, in SQ320, the client PC 120, triggered by the notification received in SQ317, commands the printer server 130 to execute processing for registering a correct image. In this embodiment, the document data is sent from the client PC 120 to the printer server 130 together with the correct image registration command. The document data received by the printer server 130 here becomes the source data for the RIP processing described below.

[0059] Next, in SQ321, the printer server 130 saves the settings for RIP processing based on the print settings set in SQ301.

[0060] Next, in SQ322, the printer server 130 performs RIP processing on the document data one page at a time based on the print settings saved in SQ321, and generates RIP data.

[0061] Next, in SQ323, the printer server 130 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to print the RIP data RIP-processed in SQ322. At this time, it is assumed that the printer server 130 transmits print settings to the image forming apparatus 100.

[0062] Next, in SQ324, the printer unit 210 in the image forming apparatus 100 prints one page at a time according to the RIP data received in SQ323 and the print settings specified by the user.

[0063] Next, in SQ325, device control section 260 in image forming device 100 uses image reading section 270 to obtain scanned image data obtained by reading the printed matter printed in SQ324.

[0064] Next, in SQ326, the image forming apparatus 100 transmits the scanned image data read in SQ325 to the inspection PC 110 via the communication cable 150.

[0065] Next, in SQ327, the inspection PC 110 stores the scanned image data transmitted in SQ326.

[0066] Next, in SQ328, the inspection PC 110 notifies the image forming apparatus 100, via the communication cable 150, that saving of the scanned image data read in SQ325 has been completed. Note that the processes from SQ324 to SQ308 are repeated for each print page of the manuscript data.

[0067] Next, in step SQ329, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the printer server 130 that printing of the series of document data up to SQ328 and storing of the scanned correct image data have been completed.

[0068] Next, in step SQ330, printer server 130 notifies client PC 120 that printing of the series of original data up to SQ328 and saving of the scanned correct image data are complete.

[0069] Next, in SQ340, the client PC 120 instructs the inspection PC 110 to set up inspection for carrying out inspection.

[0070] Next, in SQ341, the inspection PC 110 sets various inspection parameters such as the inspection area, inspection level, etc., in accordance with the user's inspection settings. Note that a detailed UI for setting the inspection in SQ341 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0071] Next, in SQ342, the inspection PC 110 ends the inspection settings made in SQ341, saves various inspection parameters such as the inspection area and inspection level, and prepares for inspection.

[0072] Next, in SQ343, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that the inspection settings have been completed, thereby notifying the user that the series of operations of registering the correct image and the inspection settings has been completed.

[0073] The above is an explanation of the process flow for registering a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in this embodiment.

[0074] Next, an example of a UI related to test settings will be described with reference to FIG.

[0075] The UI screen 700 in FIG. 7 is a UI screen that is displayed on the UI unit 118 of the inspection PC 110 at the timing of setting up the inspection for the SQ340 inspection.

[0076] The page preview 740 is a display screen that displays the scanned image read by the SQ325 as the correct image.

[0077] Button 702 is a button pressed by the user when setting an area for data inspection. The method for setting an area for data inspection in this embodiment is as follows: First, the user operates button 702 to press the data inspection area setting. Then, the user operates to specify an area for performing data inspection in page preview 740, and the inspection PC 110 sets the corresponding specified range on the scanned image as data inspection area 741 and data inspection area 742. The data inspection area is an inspection area that is a specified area in which the type of data that has been set (character string or barcode) is read and judged as to whether it is correct or not.

[0078] Button 703 is a button that is pressed by the user when setting the area for print image inspection. The method for setting the area for print image inspection in this embodiment is as follows. First, the user operates button 703 to press the area setting for print image inspection. Then, the user operates to specify the area for which print image inspection is to be performed in page preview 740, and the inspection PC 110 sets the corresponding specified range as print image inspection area 743. The print image inspection area is an inspection area for detecting abnormal images in the picture portion of the printed matter.

[0079] A button 704 is a button for rotating the image displayed in the page preview 740 .

[0080] A button 705 is an inspection area selection button, which is pressed by the user when the user wishes to change setting information for an area that has already been set.

[0081] The UI 710 is a group of UIs for setting the level of abnormal images to be detected when performing print image inspection.

[0082] The UI 711 is a UI for setting the detection items and their detection levels for detecting abnormal images in print image inspection. The detection items in print image inspection are items related to the features of abnormal images to be detected when inspecting printed matter, such as round-shaped abnormal images (dots) and linear abnormal images (streaks). The detection level is a parameter set in stages for determining the size of each feature of a detected abnormal image as an abnormal image. For example, there are five levels from level 1 to level 5, and level 5 can detect thinner and smaller abnormal images than level 1. In addition, a level can be set for each inspection item, such as inspection level 5 for dots and inspection level 4 for streaks. The UI 711 shows that the user has selected level 4 for the inspection level setting for abnormal images (dots) and level 4 for the inspection level setting for abnormal images (streaks).

[0083] The UI 720 is a group of UIs for setting the data file to be referenced when comparing detected data, the type of data inspection, and detailed information about the data inspection when performing data inspection. The data inspection area is an inspection area that reads the set data type (character string or barcode) and judges whether it is correct or not.

[0084] The UI 721 is a UI for setting, by file selection, a variable data file to be used as the correct character information when determining whether a data is correct or not in a data inspection.

[0085] The variable data (reference data) in this embodiment is a reference CSV file for data inspection that is collated as a correct answer when performing data inspection. The reference CSV file is a file in which correct answer character strings for character string inspection and barcode inspection are listed in a comma-separated format. The reference CSV file is used as data to be input to the variable area when generating manuscript data for variable printing. Since the manuscript data is generated by referring to the reference CSV file, the order of the data is consistent. Therefore, when performing data inspection, it is possible to collate the string inspection area and the barcode reading result with the correct answer character strings listed in the reference CSV file. If the printing order of the manuscript data is changed, the order of the data in the CSV file being referred to will no longer match, and therefore it will no longer be possible to collate the correct answer character strings listed in the reference CSV file. In addition, the UI 721 in FIG. 7 indicates that data with a file name of abc.csv is selected as the data for collation inspection. It is assumed that the CSV file is stored in the storage unit 116 in advance.

[0086] An example of a CSV file will be described with reference to FIG. 9. Variable printing using variable data is a means for switching addresses, names, etc. for each customer when sending direct mail, for example. Variable data refers to variable data that switches addresses, names, etc. for each customer. That is, the area where the address and name are printed is a variable area (variable area), and the variable area is an area where the print content switches for each page of the printed matter. In FIG. 9(a), data for each customer is shown on one line, and data that records a serial number and a member ID on each column. That is, the character string written on the first page is written on the first line, and the character string written on the second page is written on the second line. In addition, the first line may be configured to improve the readability of a user who handles a CSV file, and if a label is written on the first line, that line is skipped. In this embodiment, customer data is printed on each sheet, and the CSV file also reads the customer data on the next line each time a sheet is printed. Also, a CSV file needs to be prepared for each print data, but there are cases where you want to print by replacing only the image portion of the template. In that case, you can use the same CSV file.

[0087] In addition, in the CSV file, data is separated by commas, but when an existing spreadsheet application is used, the data is displayed in a table-like framework. When the CSV file is checked using a text editor instead of a spreadsheet application, the data is displayed in a comma-separated format, as shown in FIG. 9(c). In addition, in this embodiment, the serial number and the correct value are shown in one line, but the serial number may be expressed by combining the page number, the area number, etc. In addition, when there are multiple variable areas on one page, multiple correct values ​​may be written in one line. For example, when there are correct values ​​corresponding to the data inspection areas 741 and 742 in FIG. 7, a column may be added to the right of FIG. 9(a) and the correct values ​​may be written there as well.

[0088] Next, a UI 722 is a UI for setting the type of character string inspection or barcode inspection selected by the user using a radio button method and a pull-down method.

[0089] In this embodiment, the type of character string refers to a set of font data that associates character character images with character codes for character recognition (OCR). It is necessary to store a set of font data in advance, and this may be done by a user printing character character images and performing a registration process to associate them with character codes, or by storing a corresponding font data set in advance as shipped. The UI 722 in FIG. 7 shows that the character font selected for character string inspection is OCRB12pt. It is assumed that the data inspection area 741 is set for character string inspection, and OCRB12pt specified in the UI 722 is selected.

[0090] In addition, the type of barcode in this embodiment refers to the barcode standard supported by the data inspection. For example, one-dimensional barcodes such as CODE39 and JAN, and two-dimensional codes such as QR Code (registered trademark) and DataMatrix code can be selected in UI722 if they are standards supported by the data inspection. In this embodiment, barcodes and QR codes are collectively referred to as code images. UI722 in FIG. 7 shows that CODE39 is selected as the barcode inspection. It is assumed that the data inspection area 742 is set to perform barcode inspection, and CODE39 is selected.

[0091] The UI 723 is a UI for setting the direction in which a character string or a barcode is read when performing a data inspection in accordance with the user's inspection settings, and is composed of direction setting buttons 724 to 727.

[0092] The direction setting buttons 724 to 727 correspond to 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° in 90-degree increments based on the clockwise direction of the paper transport direction. In this embodiment, the paper transport direction is from right to left as viewed from the page preview 740 of FIG. 7. Therefore, the direction setting button 724, in which the orientation of the paper transport direction and the orientation of the characters correspond, has an angle setting of 0°. Since the paper is rotated in 90-degree increments clockwise with respect to the transport direction, the angle setting corresponding to the direction setting button 725 is 90°, the angle setting corresponding to the direction setting button 726 is 180°, and the angle setting corresponding to the direction setting button 727 is 270°. The direction setting buttons 724 to 727 are set so as to correspond to the angle at which the character string or barcode displayed in the page preview 740 is displayed. In this embodiment, the direction setting buttons 724 to 727 are used to set the direction in which the character string or barcode is read. However, this is not limited to this embodiment, and a UI that can set the direction (for example, a radio button) may also be used.

[0093] The UI 728 is a UI for setting whether or not to execute a comparison check between the correct answer character string of the CSV file set in the UI 721 and the read character string when performing a data inspection according to the user's inspection settings, using a check box method and a text box. The execution of the comparison check is switched by the setting of a check button. When the check box is checked, which column in the CSV file is to be referenced as the correct answer character string is determined by the input value of the text box. The input value accepted in the text box is an integer of 1 or more, and when the CSV file is read in advance, the maximum number of columns may be set as the upper limit. In this embodiment, the number of columns to be referenced is specified by the text box, but a drop-down type UI may be used in which the first row of variable data is read in advance and the first row is used as the label value. In addition, this is not limited to this embodiment, and any method may be used as long as it is a method of specifying the number of columns to be referenced from the CSV file.

[0094] If the check box is not checked, the verification is not performed. At that time, the text box to be referred to as the correct answer string may be grayed out so that no input can be made.

[0095] A button 729 is a button for executing the test when all the test settings are completed. A button 730 is a button for interrupting the test settings, and when the user presses the button 730, the information being set is discarded and the test settings are terminated.

[0096] FIG. 10 shows an example of setting values ​​that are held as the examination settings after the examination settings have been completed according to the user's operations.

[0097] For each inspection area that is set, reference columns for the area ID, type of inspection, decoding method, angle, and matching inspection are to be stored.

[0098] The area ID is a unique ID assigned to each inspection area of ​​the data inspection or print image inspection set by the button 702 or the button 703 .

[0099] The type of inspection is used to set the corresponding type of inspection, such as print image inspection, character string inspection, or bar code inspection.

[0100] The decode method is used to set the type of decoding to be performed when decoding a read image into a character string during data inspection (character string inspection, barcode inspection), and saves the setting value of UI 722. In this embodiment, in the case of print image inspection, no setting is required, so "-" is entered.

[0101] The angle is used to set the direction in which a character string or barcode is read when performing a data inspection (character string inspection, barcode inspection), and saves the setting value of the button selected in UI 723. In this embodiment, in the case of print image inspection, no setting is required, so "-" is entered.

[0102] The reference column for the verification inspection is used to set the number of columns in the CSV file to be referenced when a verification inspection is performed in a data inspection (character string inspection, barcode inspection), and saves the value entered in UI 728. Note that in this embodiment, in the case of print image inspection or when a verification inspection is not performed even in a data inspection, no setting is required, so "-" should be entered.

[0103] The above is a description of the UI for setting the inspection settings for the inspection process in this embodiment. Note that even after the inspection settings in Fig. 7 are completed, adjustments can be made again by the user.

[0104] [Inspection system inspection execution flow] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a processing flow for a user to print on the image forming device 100 via the printer server 130 and inspect the printed matter for abnormal images using the inspection PC 110 according to the inspection settings set in FIG. 3.

[0105] 4, the client PC 120, the printer server 130, the inspection PC 110, and the image forming apparatus 100 execute the processes described below in response to commands from the user. The client PC 120 executes the processes in response to commands from the user to execute printing and inspection.

[0106] At this time, the processing of the inspection PC 110 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 by the CPU 112. The processing of the client PC 120 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 126 into the RAM 123 and controlling the device control unit 121 by the CPU 122. The processing of the printer server 130 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 136 into the RAM 133 and controlling the device control unit 131 by the CPU 132. The processing of the image forming apparatus 100 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 203 into the RAM 202 and controlling the device control unit 200 by the CPU 201.

[0107] First, in SQ401, the client PC 120 performs print settings to command the image forming apparatus 100 when printing and inspection are performed in accordance with an instruction from a user.

[0108] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for setting information related to print settings at the time of inspection.

[0109] A UI 800 in FIG. 8 is used to input print settings related to the inspection process, and is a UI screen displayed on the UI unit 128 of the client PC 120.

[0110] First, label 801 is a label for displaying the paper size set during the inspection setup. In this embodiment, the paper size set during the inspection setup cannot be changed, so it is displayed as a label rather than a list box so that selection and setting changes cannot be made.

[0111] Next, text box 802 is a text box for displaying the number of sheets per copy that was set when the inspection was set. In this embodiment, the number of sheets per copy that was set when the inspection was set is the value input in text box 603, and cannot be changed. Therefore, the operation of the text box 802 is disabled so that the selection and setting change of the text box cannot be made.

[0112] Next, a text box 803 is a text box for inputting the number of copies to be printed of the print to be inspected.

[0113] Next, UI 804 is a group of UIs for setting the pages to be printed selected by the user using radio buttons and text boxes. The patterns of pages to be printed that can be selected using the radio buttons include "All", "Current Page", "Specify Page", "Even Pages", and "Odd Pages".

[0114] "All" is a radio button that is selected when all pages of the manuscript data are to be printed.

[0115] "Current Page" is a radio button that is selected when manuscript data is displayed in some application and only the displayed page is to be printed.

[0116] "Page designation" is a radio button that is selected when the user sets the pages to be printed among the original pages. When page designation is set, the range of pages to be printed that is to be set is input in the text box. At this time, delimiters may be used as a method of page designation. For example, in this embodiment, a comma "," is used to separate pages, and a hyphen "-" is used to specify a page range. In the case of 4-9 written in the text box of UI804, it is set to print pages 4 to 9.

[0117] "Even Pages" is a radio button that is selected when even pages of the manuscript data are to be printed.

[0118] "Odd Pages" is a radio button that is selected when even pages of the original data are to be printed.

[0119] This is not limited to the present embodiment, and any other method may be used as long as there is a method for specifying the pages to be printed.

[0120] Next, radio buttons 805 are used to set the printing order when printing the manuscript data. When normal order is selected, pages are printed in ascending order starting from the first page, and when reverse order is selected, pages are printed in descending order starting from the last page.

[0121] A button 806 is a button for completing all print settings and executing printing and inspection. A button 807 is a button for interrupting the print settings, and when the user presses the button 807, the information being set is discarded and printing and inspection are terminated.

[0122] The above is a description of the UI for setting information related to print settings at the time of inspection in this embodiment.

[0123] In addition, when "page designation" of UI804 is selected, the set value may be automatically input. For example, there is a job to resume an inspection job in which printing / inspection was interrupted due to a malfunction of the image forming device. The total number of printed sheets, which is the sum of the set number of sheets per sheet and the number of copies printed, is compared with the number of inspected sheets, and if the number of inspected sheets is less, the printing / inspection job may be interrupted. In that case, since the inspection job may be resumed, the page range from the interrupted page to the final page may be input in advance. Furthermore, if there is no change from the automatically input value, a pop-up display (not shown) may be configured to notify the user.

[0124] Next, in SQ402, the client PC 120 issues a command to prepare for inspection to the inspection PC 110. Note that the inspection settings used for inspection set in SQ341 and the print settings set in SQ401 are used.

[0125] Next, in SQ403, the inspection PC 110 acquires the correct image acquired in SQ327.

[0126] Next, in SQ404, if a data inspection involving a comparison inspection is set in the inspection settings set in SQ341, the inspection PC 110 acquires the set variable data.

[0127] Next, in SQ405, the inspection PC 110 uses the settings for the pages to be printed set in SQ401 to specify the specific pages to be printed and the printing order. For example, if all pages are set to be printed in reverse order, the order is set to descending order from the last page, and if the page designation is set to "1-10" as the normal order, the order is set to ascending order from page 1 to page 10.

[0128] Next, in SQ406, the inspection PC 110 extracts the correct images corresponding to the print pages identified in SQ405, and rearranges them in the printing order.

[0129] Next, in SQ407, the inspection PC 110 extracts the variable data corresponding to the print page specified in SQ405 and rearranges it in the print order. For example, when there are 13 pages of variable data as shown in FIG. 9(a), if the page specification is set to "4-9" in reverse order, 6 pages are extracted starting with the data on the 9th line, which is the data on the 9th page. Thus, the rearranged and re-edited data is completed as shown in FIG. 9(b). The re-edited data has a data format as shown in FIG. 9(d). In this embodiment, the extracted variable data is not saved as a file, but is temporarily saved in the storage unit 116 and processed, but it may be saved as a file to leave a trace of the inspection. In this embodiment, it has been described that the rearranged data exists as a separate file that has actually been re-edited, but it may be configured to refer to the correct answer value from the variable data in the order specified for the pages.

[0130] Next, in SQ408, the inspection PC 110 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to notify whether the device is in a state where printing and inspection are possible.

[0131] Next, in SQ409, the image forming apparatus 100 acquires the status of the image processing unit 101, the inspection unit 102, and the finisher 103 to determine whether they are in a usable state, and determines whether they are in a state where printing and inspection are possible.

[0132] Next, in SQ410, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the inspection PC 110 as to whether printing and inspection are possible as determined in SQ409.

[0133] Next, in SQ411, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that it is ready to execute inspection, based on the printing and inspection possible status notified in SQ409.

[0134] Next, in SQ420, client PC 120 instructs printer server 130 to print using the document data and print settings designated by the user.

[0135] Next, in SQ421, the printer server 130 executes RIP processing using the document data transmitted in SQ420 and the print settings specified by the user. In this embodiment, the RIP processing of the document data is performed before the processing from SQ422 onwards. The document data in this embodiment refers to document data that supports variable printing. The document data refers to print data that is configured with a variable area that references a reference CSV file in the variable area and switches to a character string, barcode, image, etc. in response to the referenced data, and a fixed area that uses a template image or drawing data.

[0136] Next, in SQ422, the printer server 130 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to print using the RIP data generated in SQ421 and the print settings specified by the user.

[0137] Next, in SQ423, the printer unit 210 in the image forming apparatus 100 prints one page at a time according to the RIP data received in SQ422 and the print settings designated by the user.

[0138] Next, in SQ424, device control section 260 in image forming apparatus 100 uses image reading section 270 to obtain scanned image data obtained by reading the printed matter printed in SQ423.

[0139] Next, in SQ425, the image forming apparatus 100 transmits the scanned image data read in SQ424 to the inspection PC 110 via the communication cable 150.

[0140] Next, in SQ426, the inspection PC 110 performs image inspection using the scanned image data received in SQ425 and the correct image and variable data extracted in SQ406 and SQ407. In addition to image inspection, it also checks whether there are any abnormal images in the scanned image data, extracts a data inspection area from the scanned image data, decodes it into a character string according to the inspection settings, and performs a comparison inspection between the read character string and the reference data. In this case, not only information on whether there is an abnormal image in the printed matter, but also the type of abnormal image detected (dots or streaks) and the scanned image of the area adjacent to the area detected as abnormal or the entire page are saved. In addition, the comparison result of the reference data that is compared with the read character string in the area where the data inspection was performed is also saved.

[0141] Next, in SQ427, the inspection PC 110 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication cable 150 of the inspection result of SQ416.

[0142] Next, in SQ428, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the discharge destination of the finisher 103 based on the inspection results received in SQ427. For example, printed matter in which no abnormal image was detected is output to a tray of the finisher specified by the user, and printed matter in which an abnormal image was detected is output to a tray for abnormal images. Also, not limited to this embodiment, when an abnormal image is detected, reprinting may be performed automatically to recover from the abnormal image. By performing reprinting every time an abnormal image is detected, a set of printed matter output to the tray of the finisher that is free of abnormal images is completed.

[0143] If printing of all pages of the manuscript data has not been completed, the printing and inspection steps SQ423 to SQ428 are repeated until all pages have been printed.

[0144] Next, in SQ429, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the printer server 130 that printing and inspection of all pages of the document data has been completed.

[0145] Next, in SQ430, the printer server 130 notifies the client PC 120 that printing and inspection of all pages of the manuscript data has been completed, thereby notifying the user that printing and inspection has been completed.

[0146] The above is an explanation of the processing flow for printing with the image forming apparatus 100 via the printer server 130 and inspecting the printed matter for abnormal images with the inspection PC 110 according to the inspection settings set in FIG.

[0147] A detailed flow of the process of extracting the correct image and variable data corresponding to the print page order determined from the print settings in the process from SQ403 to SQ410 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. By executing this process, the pages to be printed and their order are determined from the print page designation and print order settings in the print settings, and the correct image and variable data corresponding to the determined contents are extracted, enabling inspection that matches the print pages and variable data. The process of the inspection PC 110 is executed by the program code stored in the storage unit 116 being expanded in the RAM 113 and controlled by the device control unit 111 via the CPU 112.

[0148] First, in step S501, the inspection PC 110 acquires the correct image stored in SQ327. The process of step S501 is the same as that of SQ403.

[0149] Next, in step S502, if a data inspection involving a matching inspection is set in the inspection settings set in SQ341, the inspection PC 110 acquires the set variable data. Note that the process of step S502 is the same as the process of SQ404.

[0150] Next, in step S503, the inspection PC 110 determines whether the settings for print pages and print order in the inspection settings acquired in step S502 have been changed from the initial settings. If they have not been changed from the initial settings, there is no need to extract the correct image and variable data, so in step S511, the inspection PC 110 issues a command to notify whether the device is in a state where printing and inspection are possible. Note that the processing of step S511 is the same as that of SQ409. Also, the initial values ​​for print pages and print order in this embodiment are "all" for print pages and "normal order" for print order.

[0151] If the setting has been changed from the initial value in step S503, it is necessary to extract the correct image and variable data, and it is necessary to determine whether the page to be printed complies with a certain rule. For example, if the page is an even-numbered page, which complies with the rule, the page to be printed can be specified, but if the page designation can be freely set by the user, it is necessary to specify the page to be printed because it does not comply with the rule. Therefore, in step S504, the inspection PC 110 determines whether the setting value of the print page is other than the page designation. If the setting value of the print page is other than the page designation, in step S505, the inspection PC 110 specifies the page to be printed based on the setting value of the print page input in the UI 804. For example, if the current page is set, only the page corresponding to the displayed page number is extracted, if an even-numbered page is set, only the even-numbered page is extracted, and similarly, if an odd-numbered page is set, only the odd-numbered page is extracted.

[0152] If the setting value of the print page is a page designation in step S504, the inspection PC 110 performs character string analysis on the setting value input in the page designation text box in step S506 to identify the pages to be printed. In the character string analysis in this embodiment, when "1-10" is input, in order to understand that it is a range from page 1 to page 10, first, a lexical analysis is performed to distinguish whether the character string is a number or a symbol. Next, if the symbol is "-", it is a symbol indicating the print range, so it is composed of a start page, a symbol, and an end page. Then, the page range can be specified from the numbers before and after the symbol "-", and it is interpreted as a range from page 1 to page 10. Also, if the symbol is ",", it is a page separator, so even if numbers before and after it are input, the page range is not applied. For example, if "3,6" is input, it is interpreted as printing pages 3 and 6.

[0153] This is not limited to the present embodiment, and any general method may be used as long as it is a method for identifying the print page from the input value of the page designation.

[0154] Next, in step S505, the inspection PC 110 identifies the page to be printed based on the analysis result in step S506.

[0155] Next, in step S508, the inspection PC 110 specifies the page order to be printed based on the setting value of the print order. For example, if the setting value of the print page specification is "1-6" and the print order is reverse order, the page order to be printed will be 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

[0156] By carrying out the processes from step S504 to step S508, the process for identifying the print pages and the order in the process of SQ405 is executed.

[0157] Next, in step S509, the inspection PC 110 extracts the correct images corresponding to the print pages identified in step S505 or step S507, and rearranges them in the print order. Note that the process in step S509 is the same as that in SQ406.

[0158] Next, in step S510, the inspection PC 110 extracts the variable data corresponding to the print page identified in step S505 or step S507, and rearranges them in the print order. Note that the process of step S510 is the same as the process of SQ407, so details are omitted.

[0159] Next, in step S511, the inspection PC 110 commands the image forming apparatus 100 to notify whether the device is in a state where printing and inspection are possible. Note that the process of step S511 is the same as the process of SQ408.

[0160] Next, in step S512, the inspection PC 110 receives the printing and inspection possible state commanded in step S511 from the image forming apparatus 100. The process of step S512 is the same as that of SQ410.

[0161] Next, in step S513, the inspection PC 110 notifies the client PC 120 that the preparation for execution of the inspection is completed based on the printing and inspection possible state notified in step S512. Note that the process of step S513 is the same as the process of SQ411.

[0162] In this embodiment, the pages to be printed are specified based on the print page settings at the time of inspection, and the variable data and the correct image data are extracted. However, only the variable data may be extracted. For example, instead of registering all pages to be printed as correct images, only pages for one user are printed. In that case, printing at the time of registering the correct image prints one copy of pages for one user, and printing and inspection prints pages for all users. At this time, since there is no correct image corresponding to all pages, the print image inspection is performed by repeating the value for the user as the number of copies without replacing the correct image. Then, since the data inspection needs to switch the rows of the CSV file to be referenced for each user, data inspection is performed to extract variable data based on the input print page settings. As a result, only one copy of the correct image can be printed for inspection, so it is possible to reduce wasteful paper even when inspecting variable printing.

[0163] In addition, the page to be printed is specified and variable data is extracted based on the print page settings at the time of inspection, but if there is a mismatch between the character string read during data inspection and the correct character string, printing may be interrupted. For example, if the page settings of the application that set the print settings differ from the settings of the page to be printed in the UI 800, printing can be interrupted and the results checked to reduce undesired printing.

[0164] As described above, by identifying the page to be printed based on the print page settings at the time of inspection and simultaneously changing the correct image and correct character string of the variable data, it is possible to perform print image inspection and data inspection in which the correct image and correct character string match.

[0165] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, a method for specifying a page to be printed based on print page settings at the time of inspection and changing a correct image and a correct character string of reference data when image data read by the image reading unit 270 of the image forming apparatus 100 is set as a correct image is described. At this time, the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 do not notify job setting information and the like, and print settings are performed using a UI. In this embodiment, the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 notify job setting information and the like, and a RIP image is used as a correct image, and a page to be printed is specified based on print page settings at the time of inspection. A method for matching a correct image and a correct character string of reference data to perform print image inspection and data inspection is described. Note that a RIP image (Raster Image Processor) is an image obtained by converting manuscript data or document data into bitmapped image data.

[0166] The following describes this embodiment in terms of the differences from the above-described first embodiment.

[0167] [Inspection system correct image processing flow] 11 is a diagram showing a process flow for a user to register a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in the inspection system. In this flow, a RIP image is generated from manuscript data in the printer server 130, the generated RIP image is saved as correct image data, and settings to be used during inspection are made. By executing these flows, the registration work of the correct image and inspection settings performed before inspecting a printed matter is completed.

[0168] 11, the client PC 120, the printer server 130, the inspection PC 110, and the image forming apparatus 100 execute the processes described below upon receiving an instruction from the user 301. The client PC 120 executes this process upon receiving an instruction from the user to start registering a correct image.

[0169] At this time, the processing of the inspection PC 110 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 116 into the RAM 113 and controlling the device control unit 111 by the CPU 112. The processing of the client PC 120 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 126 into the RAM 123 and controlling the device control unit 121 by the CPU 122. The processing of the printer server 130 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 136 into the RAM 133 and controlling the device control unit 131 by the CPU 132. The processing of the image forming apparatus 100 is executed by loading the program code stored in the storage unit 203 into the RAM 202 and controlling the device control unit 200 by the CPU 201.

[0170] In this embodiment, information related to a job can be communicated between the printer server 130 and the inspection PC 110. In this embodiment, the communication method between the printer server 130 and the inspection PC 110 is in JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) format or XML (Extensible Markup Language) format.

[0171] First, in SQ1101, the client PC 120 sets information related to print settings for the document data to be inspected in accordance with an instruction from the user.

[0172] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for setting information related to print settings.

[0173] A UI 1300 in FIG. 13 is used to input print settings related to the inspection process, and is a UI screen displayed on the UI unit 128 of the client PC 120.

[0174] First, the list box 1301 is similar to the list box 601 in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0175] Next, a text box 1302 is similar to the text box 803 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0176] Next, a radio button 1303 is similar to the radio button 602 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0177] Next, the UI 1304 is similar to the UI 804 in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0178] Next, a radio button 1305 is similar to the radio button 805 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0179] Next, UI 1306 is a group of UIs for setting whether or not to perform an inspection selected by the user using radio buttons and list boxes. The patterns that can be selected using the radio buttons are "Do not inspect," "Inspect using registered pattern," and "Set inspection pattern."

[0180] "No inspection" is a radio button that is selected when inspection is not to be performed. When "No inspection" is selected, the subsequent correct image registration process and inspection are not to be performed.

[0181] "Inspect with registered pattern" is a radio button that is selected when inspecting using a registered pattern that is part of the inspection settings set in Fig. 7. The registered pattern can be registered when setting up the inspection, and when UI1306 is selectable, the registered registered patterns are displayed in a list box and can be selected. Since the inspection is performed using the selected registered pattern, if "Inspect with registered pattern" is selected, the inspection is performed without performing the subsequent correct image registration process.

[0182] "Set test pattern" is a radio button that is selected when registering a correct image and setting the test pattern.

[0183] A button 1307 is pressed by the user when all print settings related to the inspection process are completed and the user wishes to save the settings that he or she has set. A button 1308 is pressed by the user when the user wishes to interrupt the settings related to the inspection process. When the user presses the button 1308, the information being set is discarded and the flow for registering the correct image is terminated.

[0184] The above is a description of the UI for configuring print settings related to the inspection process in this embodiment.

[0185] Next, in SQ1102, the client PC 120 commands the printer server 130 to execute a process for registering the correct image. Specifically, the command is to create RIP data from the manuscript data and transfer the data to the inspection PC 110. In this embodiment, the manuscript data that is the source data for creating the RIP data is transmitted from the client PC 120 to the printer server 130 at this time.

[0186] Next, in SQ1103, the printer server 130 saves the settings for RIP processing based on the print settings set in SQ1101.

[0187] Next, in SQ1104, the printer server 130 commands the inspection PC 110 to execute preparations for accepting the RIP data transferred from the printer server 130.

[0188] Next, in SQ1105, the inspection PC 110 activates the folder to which the RIP data is transferred as a hot folder to be monitored. In this embodiment, a predetermined folder is designated as the hot folder, but it may be designated by the user. In this case, it is necessary to set the destination folder in the printer server 130 as well. The inspection PC 110 checks whether a file transfer event has occurred for the hot folder to be monitored, and as soon as the transfer of the RIP data is completed, executes the subsequent registration process of the correct image.

[0189] Next, in SQ1106, the inspection PC 110 notifies the printer server 130 that the series of operations for receiving the RIP data has been completed.

[0190] Next, in SQ1107, the printer server 130 performs RIP processing on each page according to the document data received from the client PC 120 in SQ1102 and the information related to the print settings set in SQ1103, and generates RIP data.

[0191] Next, in SQ1108, the printer server 130 transfers the RIP data generated in SQ1107 to the hot folder to be monitored by the inspection PC 110 one page at a time as soon as the data is generated.

[0192] Next, in SQ1109, the inspection PC 110 sequentially stores the RIP data received in SQ1108. Then, SQ1107 to SQ1109 are repeated for the number of print pages of the manuscript data.

[0193] Next, in SQ1110, the inspection PC 110 stores the RIP data up to SQ1109 as a correct image, and notifies the printer server 130 that registration is complete.

[0194] Next, in SQ1111, upon receiving the notification of SQ1110, the printer server 130 generates a correct image and notifies the client PC 120 that registration has been completed.

[0195] Next, steps SQ1120 to SQ1123 are similar to steps SQ340 to SQ343 in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0196] The above is an explanation of the process flow for registering a correct image and inspection settings before inspection in this embodiment.

[0197] [Inspection system inspection execution flow] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a process flow for a user to print with the image forming apparatus 100 via the printer server 130, and to inspect the printed matter for abnormal images with the inspection PC 110 according to the inspection settings set in Fig. 3. The basic configuration in Fig. 12 is similar to that in Fig. 4 of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0198] First, in SQ1201, the client PC 120 performs print settings to be instructed to the image forming apparatus 100 when printing and inspection are performed according to instructions from a user. Note that SQ1201 is the print settings to be referenced in the settings of SQ1101, so a description thereof will be omitted. In this embodiment, the print settings to be referenced in the settings of SQ1101 are used, but when printing a job that has been registered in advance or printing and inspecting a job that has been inspected in the past is to be redone, the print settings at the time of inspection in FIG. 8 may be displayed.

[0199] Next, in SQ1202, the client PC 120 commands the printer server 130 to print using the document data and print settings designated by the user.

[0200] Next, in SQ1203, the printer server 130 issues a command to prepare for inspection to the inspection PC 110. Note that the inspection settings used for inspection set in SQ1121 and the print settings set in SQ1201 are used.

[0201] Next, steps SQ1204 to SQ1211 are similar to steps SQ403 to SQ410 in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0202] Next, in SQ1212, the inspection PC 110 notifies the printer server 130 that it is ready to execute the inspection, based on the printing and inspection possible state notified in SQ1210.

[0203] Next, the processes from SQ1221 to SQ1228 are similar to those from SQ421 to SQ428 in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0204] Next, in SQ1229, the inspection PC 110 notifies the printer server 130 that the inspection of the page to be printed is complete.

[0205] Next, in SQ1230, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the printer server 130 that printing of the page to be printed has been completed.

[0206] Next, in SQ1231, the printer server 130 notifies the client PC 120 that printing is complete depending on whether it receives the inspection completion notification in SQ1229 or the printing completion notification in SQ1230.

[0207] In addition, when job-related information can be communicated between the printer server 130 and the inspection PC 110 as in this embodiment, the settings related to printing in Fig. 13 may be made only for the printer server 130. For example, by communicating the print settings made in Fig. 13 as job information from the printer server 130 to the inspection PC 110, the user does not need to make print settings in the inspection PC 110, and this makes it possible to omit the steps related to the inspection settings. Furthermore, by making the print settings including the inspection all at once in SQ1101, and also omitting the print settings before the inspection made in SQ1201, it becomes possible to perform a series of operations from registering the correct image to printing and inspection without instructions from the user.

[0208] By adopting the above configuration, in this embodiment, the inspection PC 110 and the printer server 130 notify job setting information and the like, and a RIP image is used as the correct image, and the page to be printed is specified based on the print page setting at the time of inspection. It is now possible to perform print image inspection and data inspection by matching the correct image and the correct character string of the reference data.

Claims

1. An inspection device connectable to an image forming apparatus, an extraction unit for extracting a character string from a designated area on a scanned image acquired by scanning a printed material on which an image is printed based on a job; an inspection means for inspecting the printed matter by comparing the character string extracted by the extraction means with a correct answer value referenced from reference data; An acquisition means for acquiring information related to the job; having The inspection means inspects the printed matter by referring to the reference data for the correct value based on the acquired information about the job. An inspection device characterized by:

2. generating second reference data by rearranging the correct answer values ​​based on the information on the job acquired by the acquisition means for the first reference data stored in advance; The inspection means inspects the printed matter using the second reference data.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The inspection device has a UI unit, The acquiring unit acquires information related to the job via a screen displayed on the UI unit.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. The acquiring unit acquires information about pages to be printed from information about a job for performing printing in the image forming apparatus.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

5. The information regarding the pages to be printed is setting information regarding the range of pages to be printed.

5. The inspection apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The information regarding the pages to be printed is a setting of the printing order.

5. The inspection apparatus according to claim 4.

7. In the reference data, the correct answer value corresponding to a character string extracted from a scanned image of a first page is stored in a first row, and the correct answer value corresponding to a character string extracted from a scanned image of a second page is stored in the row next to the first row.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

8. Based on the information on the job acquired by the acquisition means being information on printing from a first page, the inspection means inspects the printed matter by referring to the correct value corresponding to the first page and the correct value corresponding to a page subsequent to the first page from the reference data.

8. The inspection apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The reference data is a CSV file.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

10. The extraction means extracts a character string from the image of the specified area in accordance with a setting of a character string inspection.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

11. The extracting means extracts a character string from the code image in the specified area in accordance with a setting for barcode inspection.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

12. The designated area is a variable area in which the print content changes for each page of the printed matter.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

13. The reference data is variable data corresponding to the designated area.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

14. a second inspection means for inspecting the printed matter based on a previously prepared correct image and the scanned image; The second inspection means rearranges the correct images based on the acquired information about the job, and inspects the printed matter.

2. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 .

15. A method for controlling an inspection device connectable to an image forming device, comprising: An extraction step of extracting a character string from a designated area on a scanned image acquired by scanning a printed material on which an image is printed based on a job; an inspection step of inspecting the printed matter by comparing the extracted character string with a correct answer value referenced from reference data; acquiring information about the job; Equipped with In the inspection step, the print is inspected by referring to the reference data for the correct value based on the acquired information about the job.

23. A method for controlling an inspection apparatus comprising:

Images