Imaging inspection apparatus, imaging system, imaging inspection method, and imaging inspection program

Abstract

To provide an image inspection device, image forming system, image inspection method, and image inspection program, which allow for securing inspection quality and preventing unnecessary error determination.SOLUTION: An image inspection device comprises an image reader unit configured to read a printed image and a coated image formed on a recording medium, and an image inspection unit configured to inspect the coated image in accordance with accuracy set based on how the printed image and the coated image that have been read overlap.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been an image forming system in which an electrophotographic image forming apparatus (a copier, a printer, a facsimile machine, or a multifunction machine thereof) that forms a toner image on a sheet of paper and an image reading apparatus equipped with a scanner or the like are connected in-line or integrally.

[0003] Here, the image reading apparatus reads an output (that is, an image on a sheet of paper; the same applies hereinafter) output by the image forming apparatus with a scanner or the like, feeds back information on color and positional deviation to the image forming apparatus, and functions as a post-processing apparatus for correcting the image.

[0004] In recent years, in addition to a system of an image forming apparatus and an output image reading apparatus, an image forming system has been proposed that is in-line or integrally equipped with an image inspection apparatus (also called an automatic inspection apparatus) that automatically inspects the image quality of an output output by the image forming apparatus. In such a system, the image inspection apparatus executes an inspection job based on inspection data (inspection image data), and inspects (inspects) whether there are various abnormalities (image defects) such as blurring, density unevenness, and streaks in the image on the sheet of paper.

[0005] When executing an inspection job, the image inspection apparatus acquires, as inspection image data, data of a reference image (also called a correct image) created or registered in advance and an image of an actually printed output (image reading data of the image reading apparatus).

[0006] Then, the image inspection device determines whether there are image defects in the image actually printed on the paper by comparing these images, and inspects the quality of the images. According to such an image forming system, it is possible to automatically inspect (inspect the products) whether the output (image on the paper) output by the image forming device is printed with the quality as desired by the customer.

[0007] Furthermore, in recent image forming systems, by applying a coating material such as a transparent UV curable varnish from above on a full-color printed matter to specific locations, a three-dimensional effect or a glossy feeling is imparted to the printed matter, or a decorative image is added to the printed matter by the above coating material.

[0008] In one specific example, a coating image forming device that forms an image using the above coating material is connected to the subsequent stage of an image forming device that prints a full-color image on paper, and a coating image is formed on the paper of the full-color printed matter. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience, such an output is referred to as a "printed matter with coating".

[0009] Alternatively, a coating image forming unit that forms an image of the coating material is arranged on the downstream side in the paper conveyance direction of the image forming unit (hereinafter referred to as the "printing image forming unit" for distinction) of the above image forming device, and a coating image is formed on the paper on which the printing image has been formed by the printing image forming unit.

[0010] With the evolution of such printing techniques, in recent years, the technology for inspecting images (judging the presence or absence of image defects, etc.) for the coating images of printed matters with coating has also been developing (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0011] Conventionally, when automatically inspecting whether each of the printing image and the coating image in a printed matter with coating is printed correctly, the first inspection of the printing image is performed after the formation of the printing image and before the formation of the coating image, and the second inspection is performed only on the coating image after the formation of the coating image.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Document

[0012]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0020] An object of the present invention is to Before the inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area where the inspection is performed is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area where the inspection is performed with an inspection accuracy lower than that of the first inspection area is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area where the inspection is performed with an inspection accuracy between the inspection accuracy of the first inspection area and the inspection accuracy of the second inspection area is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. A display control unit, when comparing and inspecting the reference image and a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. An inspection unit, and a transmission unit that transmits the result of the inspection. When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change. provide an image inspection apparatus, an image forming system, an image inspection method, and an image inspection program capable of

Means for Solving the Problems

[0021] The image inspection apparatus according to the present invention is Before the inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area where the inspection is performed is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area where the inspection is performed with an inspection accuracy lower than that of the first inspection area is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area where the inspection is performed with an inspection accuracy between the inspection accuracy of the first inspection area and the inspection accuracy of the second inspection area is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. A display control unit When comparing and inspecting the reference image and a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. An inspection unit A transmission unit that transmits the result of the inspection having When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change.

[0022] The image inspection system according to the present invention is Before inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area inspected with a first inspection accuracy is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. A display control unit When comparing and inspecting the reference image with a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. An inspection unit A transmission unit that transmits the result of the inspection having When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change.

[0023] The image inspection method according to the present invention is Before inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area inspected with a first inspection accuracy is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. A step When comparing and inspecting the reference image with a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. A step A step of transmitting the result of the inspection having When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change.

[0024] The image inspection program according to the present invention is Before the inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the first inspection area that is inspected with a first inspection accuracy with respect to the displayed reference image, it is displayed in a first color. For the second inspection area that is inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy, it is displayed in a second color different from the first color. For the third inspection area that is inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy, it is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. When comparing and inspecting the reference image with a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. The step of transmitting the result of the inspection. comprises When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change.

Advantages of the Invention

[0025] According to the present invention, it is possible to achieve both ensuring inspection quality and preventing the occurrence of unnecessary error judgments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026]

Figure 1

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Figure 13

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0027] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an image forming system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a main part of a control system for explaining the flow of signals and the like between the devices constituting the image forming system 1 in the present embodiment.

[0028] The image forming system 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 forms (outputs) an image on a sheet S by an image forming apparatus 20, then reads the image of the sheet S, compares the read image with a reference image, and inspects the quality of the image printed on the sheet S (the presence or absence of image defects).

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 20 that forms a full-color printed image based on print image data and a transparent or translucent varnish-coated image (coating image) based on coating image data on a sheet S.

[0030] The image forming system 1 further includes a paper feeding device 10 that feeds the sheet S to the image forming apparatus 20, an image reading device 30 that reads the image of the sheet S discharged from the image forming apparatus 20, and a post-processing device 40 having a plurality of paper discharge trays (42, 43).

[0031] In the image forming system 1, the paper feeding device 10, the image forming apparatus 20, the image reading device 30, and the post-processing device 40 are physically connected in this order from the upstream side in the conveyance direction of the sheet S (the main bodies of the devices are connected), so that the conveyance path P of the sheet S is configured to be continuous among these plurality of devices. This conveyance path P is branched by the sorting unit 41 of the post-processing device 40 into a path P1 leading to the lower paper discharge tray 42 and a path P2 leading to the upper paper discharge tray 43.

[0032] For simplicity, in FIG. 1, the conveyance path P in the image forming apparatus 20 is shown as a single line, but in the actual image forming apparatus 20, a duplex conveyance path for duplex printing is provided. Also, for simplicity, in FIG. 1, the paths branched in the post-processing device 40 are shown as two paths P1 and P2, but more branched paths can be provided according to the number of paper discharge trays and the like.

[0033] The paper feeding device 10 can accommodate sheets S of various sizes and paper types. The paper feeding device 10 has a paper feeding roller for feeding the accommodated (stacked) sheets S one by one, a motor for driving the paper feeding roller, and the like.

[0034] This image forming apparatus 20 includes a print image forming unit 21 that forms a full-color image on the sheet S based on the input print image data (hereinafter also simply referred to as print data).

[0035] In one specific example, the print image forming unit 21 is an intermediate transfer type image forming unit that utilizes electrophotographic process technology. In this example, the print image forming unit 21 primarily transfers the Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black) toner images formed on a photosensitive drum (not shown) to an intermediate transfer belt (not shown), overlays the four-color toner images on the intermediate transfer belt, and then secondarily transfers them to the paper S, thereby forming a toner image (a full-color print image).

[0036] Also, on the downstream side of the print image forming unit 21 in the conveyance direction of the paper S, there is disposed a fixing unit 22 that secondarily transfers the toner image and heats and presses the conveyed paper S to fix the toner image on the paper S. Since these print image forming unit 21 and fixing unit 22 have known configurations, detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0037] Note that the method of forming the print image in the print image forming unit 21 is not limited to the above method, and various other methods such as an inkjet method of ejecting ink onto the paper S to form an image are applicable.

[0038] Also, in the present embodiment, the recording medium on which the image is formed is assumed to be the paper S, that is, a paper medium, but the recording medium on which the image is formed is not limited thereto, and various other sheet-like media such as cloth and plastic can be used.

[0039] In the image forming apparatus 20 of the present embodiment, a coating image forming unit 23 is disposed on the downstream side of the fixing unit 22 in the conveyance direction. This coating image forming unit 23 has a function of applying a coating material having translucency to the paper S based on the input coating image data (hereinafter simply referred to as coating data).

[0040] In one specific example, the coating image forming unit 23 forms a transparent or translucent coating image made of a UV-curable varnish on the sheet S based on coating data that defines (defines) an image different from the print image data. In this case, the coating image forming unit 23 includes a coating unit that applies a UV-curable varnish (hereinafter simply referred to as "varnish") to the sheet S, and a UV irradiation unit that is disposed on the downstream side of the coating unit and irradiates ultraviolet rays (UV) onto the varnish applied on the sheet S to cure the varnish.

[0041] For the sake of convenience of explanation, hereinafter, the image formed on the sheet S by the print image forming unit 21 is simply referred to as the "print image", and the image formed on the sheet S by the coating image forming unit 23 is referred to as the "coating image".

[0042] The apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 20 is provided with an operation display unit 25. This operation display unit 25 is constituted by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) with a touch panel, and functions as a display unit 26 and an operation unit 27.

[0043] In the operation display unit 25, the display unit 26 performs displays such as various operation screens, the state of images, and the operation status of each function in accordance with a display control signal input from a control unit 200 described later. The operation unit 27 includes various operation keys (so-called hardware switches) such as numeric keys and a start key, accepts various input operations by the user, and outputs an operation signal to the control unit 200.

[0044] Further, the display unit 26 displays various icons (so-called software switches) that can be selected by a cursor (pointer) or the like on various screens described later, accepts various input operations by the user, and outputs an operation signal to the control unit 200.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 20 includes a control unit 200 that controls the entire image forming apparatus 20. The control unit 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, etc., and controls the operations of the respective units provided in the image forming apparatus 20 in addition to the above-described print image forming unit 21 and fixing unit 22.

[0046] That is, the CPU 201 of the control unit 200 reads a program corresponding to the processing content from the ROM 202 and expands it in the RAM 203, and in cooperation with the expanded program, centrally controls the operations of the print image forming unit 21, the fixing unit 22, and other blocks within the image forming apparatus 20.

[0047] Other blocks provided in the image forming apparatus 20 include an image processing unit that performs various corrections such as gradation correction on input image data, a paper conveyance unit that drives a plurality of conveyance rollers for conveying the paper S, a communication unit that communicates with an external device through a communication network, etc., and an operation display unit that receives user input operations and displays the state of the apparatus, etc. Since these are well-known configurations, illustration and description thereof are omitted.

[0048] In the present embodiment, the control unit 200 of the image forming apparatus 20 controls the above-described respective blocks, and as shown in FIG. 2, communicates with the image inspection apparatus 50 and cooperatively executes various processes mainly executed by the image inspection apparatus 50.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the image reading apparatus 30 has an output image reading unit 31 that optically reads an image (toner image) of the paper S discharged from the image forming apparatus 20. Specifically, the output image reading unit 31 optically scans the paper S, forms an image of the reflected light from the paper S on the light receiving surface of a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor (not shown), reads the images on both sides of the paper S, and generates read image data based on the reading result. The read image data generated by the output image reading unit 31 is input to the image inspection apparatus 50 described later.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the post-processing device 40 includes a conveyance roller that conveys the sheet S whose image has been read by the image reading device 30, a plurality of paper discharge trays 42 and 43 that discharge the sheet S, and a sorting unit 41 that switches the discharge destination (conveyance route) of the sheet S. For simplicity, FIG. 2 illustrates a configuration including two paper discharge trays 42 and 43, but the number of paper discharge trays is arbitrary, and more paper discharge trays may be provided. The sorting unit 41 includes a switching gate that switches the discharge destination (conveyance route) of the sheet S to either route P1 or route P2, a drive source such as a solenoid that drives the switching gate, and an interface for transmitting and receiving data with the image forming device 20 and the image inspection device 50, etc.

[0051] In addition, the post-processing device 40 can be provided with various additional functions according to the application, such as a cutter for cutting the sheet S, a stapler for stapling the sheet S, a paper folding mechanism for folding the sheet S, etc. Since these additional functions have a known configuration, illustration and description thereof are omitted.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming system 1 includes an image inspection device 50 that inspects the quality (presence or absence of image defects) of the output image formed (output) on the sheet S based on the read image data generated by the image reading device 30.

[0053] This image inspection device 50 includes a hardware processor such as a CPU, a ROM, a data storage unit 51 described later, etc. The CPU reads and executes the program stored in the ROM to execute a job (hereinafter referred to as "inspection job") for inspecting the quality (presence or absence of image defects) of the output image.

[0054] In the present embodiment, the image inspection device 50 has a function of generating and registering a reference image (sometimes called a correct image) that is a comparison target when performing image inspection based on the read image generated by the image reading device 30.

[0055] In addition, the image inspection apparatus 50 has a function of dividing an inspection target area (an area of two-dimensional coordinates on a sheet), which is the target of image inspection, into a predetermined area or pixel units with respect to the registered reference image, and setting the inspection accuracy (level) of the image inspection for each of the divided areas.

[0056] Therefore, the image inspection apparatus 50 functions as a "setting unit" for setting the above-described inspection accuracy (level), and also undertakes the function as a "detection unit" described later.

[0057] And the image inspection apparatus 50 undertakes the function as an "image inspection unit" that compares the read image generated by the image reading apparatus 30 with the reference image to inspect the presence or absence of image defects. Details of each of these functions of the image inspection apparatus 50 will be described later.

[0058] The image inspection apparatus 50 can be physically incorporated into the housing of, for example, the image reading apparatus 30, the post-processing apparatus 40, and further the image forming apparatus 20, or can be configured as a device physically independent of these devices. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the image inspection apparatus 50 is the latter, that is, a physically independent device, and is configured to be electrically connected to a control unit 200 and the like of the image forming apparatus 20, which will be described later.

[0059] In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, the image forming system 1 includes a PC 60 that outputs data of print image data and image forming conditions of the print image (various user setting values such as the number of pages of the printed matter, double-sided or single-sided printing, and the number of printed copies).

[0060] In this example, in order to form a coating image in the coating image forming unit 23, coating image data and image forming conditions of the coating image are also output from the PC 60.

[0061] Hereinafter, the above-described various data output from the PC 60 are collectively referred to as "reference data".

[0062] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the PC 60 supplies reference data to both the image forming apparatus 20 (control unit 200) and the image inspection apparatus 50. As another example, a relay device that branches the reference data transmitted from the PC 60 and transmits it to the control unit 200 and the image inspection apparatus 50 may be provided.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, the image forming system 1 includes data storage units 51 and 52 for storing various data such as the above-described reference data.

[0064] Among these, the data storage unit 51 is a part of the image inspection apparatus 50 and is used to temporarily store reference data. Also, the data storage unit 51 stores various data related to image defects analyzed by the image inspection apparatus 50.

[0065] Furthermore, the data storage unit 51 stores and accumulates various setting contents related to image inspection as data of an inspection profile. Here, the inspection profile includes information indicating printing conditions such as the content of a print job in which an image to be inspected is printed, for example, the size of the paper S used for printing, the number of printed sheets and copies, and whether double-sided printing is performed or not. Other contents of the inspection profile will be described later.

[0066] On the other hand, the data storage unit 52 is provided inside the main body (housing) of the image forming apparatus 20 and is connected to the CPUs of the control unit 200 and the image inspection apparatus 50 via an interface (not shown). These data storage units 51 and 52 can use various data storage media such as HDDs and semiconductor memories.

[0067] In a specific example, first, the image forming apparatus 20 stores the setting information of a print job including the information indicating the above-described image forming conditions in the data storage unit 52. Thereafter, when creating an inspection profile, the image inspection apparatus 50 reads out the information indicating such image forming conditions from the data storage unit 52 and stores it in the data storage unit 51 as a part of the inspection profile.

[0068] Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 3, an overview of the processing of the inspection job executed by the image inspection apparatus 50 will be described. For simplicity, in the flow shown in FIG. 3, it is assumed that only a printed image is formed on the sheet S in the printing job (when no coating image is formed).

[0069] Also, here, it is assumed that a printed matter that is a partial number of multiple pages (for example, 4 sheets of paper) is printed in a plurality of copies (for example, 100 copies), and the quality of the images of the plurality of printed copies is inspected, and in this case, the data of the reference image of this printed matter (for 4 sheets of paper) is newly created.

[0070] In step S10, the image inspection apparatus 50 (the CPU of the image inspection apparatus 50 shown in FIG. 2, the same applies hereinafter) refers to the number of pages of the reference data described above, and registers (creates anew) the read image data for a partial number (here, for 4 sheets of paper) printed by the image forming apparatus 20 and read by the image reading apparatus 30 as the data of the reference image. The process of registering such a reference image is called a "reference job".

[0071] Specifically, in step S100, the image inspection apparatus 50 temporarily stores, in a RAM or the like, as candidates for the reference image, the images (read image data) for a partial number (for 4 sheets of paper) read and generated by the image reading apparatus 30.

[0072] At this time, if the image of the actual printed matter (for 4 sheets) is visually recognized by the user and there is no problem, through the operation input on a reference image registration screen (not shown) displayed on the display unit 26, the temporarily stored data is stored (registered) in the data storage unit 51 as the data of the formal reference image. At this time, the reference job is completed.

[0073] Thus, after the data of the formal reference image is registered, the printing job for the second part of the printed matter is started by the image forming apparatus 20.

[0074] For simplicity, the printing for newly creating the data of the reference image is referred to as "proof printing", and the printing targeted for the inspection job is referred to as "main printing". In addition, if there is a problem with the image of the actual printed matter (for 4 copies), the processing of the above-described reference job is repeated until the user determines that there is no problem as the reference image.

[0075] In step S200, the image inspection apparatus 50 acquires the read image data from the second sheet (the fifth sheet in this example) generated by the output image reading unit 31 of the image reading apparatus 30 when the main printing is started by the image forming apparatus 20. In this example, the image inspection apparatus 50 directly receives the generated read image data from the image reading apparatus 30 (see FIG. 2).

[0076] In step S300, the image inspection apparatus 50 inspects the identity between the reference image and the read image by comparing the read image data acquired in step S200 with the data of the reference image of the corresponding page registered in step S100.

[0077] Subsequently, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines whether the image quality of the read image data is OK based on the inspection result of step S300 (step S400). Such determination processing varies depending on items related to the degree of coincidence (types of image defects) between the reference image and the read image and pass / fail reference values (threshold values).

[0078] Here, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality is OK (there are no image defects) (step S400, YES), it determines that the image quality of such a printed matter is qualified. In this case, the image inspection apparatus 50 notifies the post-processing apparatus 40 to discharge the sheet S corresponding to this read image data to a preset first tray (for example, the paper discharge tray 42 in FIG. 1) (step S500).

[0079] Then, the image inspection apparatus 50 repeats the processes of steps S200 to S500 until the printing job related to the product inspection is completed, and when such a printing job is completed, the process ends. In this case, the image inspection apparatus 50 notifies, for example, the control unit 200 of the image forming apparatus 20 that "the image quality has passed on all printed pages".

[0080] On the other hand, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that there is an image defect in the read image data (step S400, NO), it proceeds to step S600.

[0081] In step S600, the image inspection apparatus 50 transmits, for example, a message such as "an image defect has occurred on the 50th printed page" to the control unit 200 of the image forming apparatus 20. At this time, the image inspection apparatus 50 also transmits the type of the image defect, the position of the image defect in the sheet S, etc. to the control unit 200 of the image forming apparatus 20. Further, the image inspection apparatus 50 notifies the post-processing apparatus 40 to discharge the sheet S corresponding to the read image data with the image defect to a preset second tray (for example, the paper discharge tray 43 in FIG. 1).

[0082] After receiving the notification about the presence or absence of an image defect from the image inspection apparatus 50, the post-processing apparatus 40 drives the switching gate of the sorting unit 41 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) to discharge the target sheet S to the corresponding paper discharge tray (42 or 43).

[0083] The image inspection apparatus 50 repeatedly performs the above-described processes of steps S100 to S600 until the product inspection job is completed. When the product inspection job is completed (i.e., completed up to the last printed page), the inspection result is stored in the data storage unit 51, and the product inspection job ends.

[0084] The above is the outline of the process related to the first image inspection when only a printed image is formed on the sheet S. However, when a coating image is formed on the sheet S on which the printed image is formed, basically, the second image inspection can be performed by the same procedure as that described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0085] Incidentally, as described above, in order to give a three-dimensional effect or a gloss to the printed image printed on the paper S, a coated printed matter may be created in which the coating image formed by the above varnish is formed so as to be superimposed on or partially overlapped with the printed image, or separately from the printed image.

[0086] Hereinafter, an example of a coated printed matter will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. On the paper S shown in FIG. 4, the range where the printed image is formed is indicated by reference sign PI, and the range where the coating image is formed is indicated by reference sign CI. For the sake of convenience of explanation hereinafter, they are referred to as "printed image PI" and "coating image CI".

[0087] In the printed matter shown in FIG. 4, characters "ABC" and "123" are printed as the printed image PI on the upper and middle stages of the paper S by the printed image forming unit 21, and then the following coating images CI are formed on the upper, middle, and lower stages of the paper S by the coating image forming unit 23.

[0088] For easy understanding, the paper S at the stage when the printed image PI is formed by the printed image forming unit 21 is shown in FIG. 5A. Also, for comparison, FIG. 5B virtually shows only the coating image CI formed on the paper S by the coating image forming unit 23. In actuality, the coating image CI shown in FIG. 5B is formed after the printed image PI shown in FIG. 5A is formed on the paper S (see FIG. 4).

[0089] That is, the coating image forming unit 23 forms the character "ABC" as the coating image CI so as to overlap with "ABC" of the printed image PI, and forms a solid rectangular image as the coating image CI at a position covering "123" of the printed image PI. Further, the coating image forming unit 23 forms an image of five stars as the coating image CI on the lower stage of the paper S where the printed image PI is not formed.

[0090] Thus, as the reference image used in the image inspection, among those in which both the printed image PI and the coating image CI are printed on the paper S as described above, the one with the best appearance will be registered (see Fig. 4).

[0091] After the registration of the reference image, basically, the image inspection can be performed by the processing routine described above with reference to Fig. 3.

[0092] On the other hand, when performing image inspection on the printed material with coating in which both the printed image PI and the coating image CI are formed by the conventional routine, there is a problem that the inspection result is stricter than the general requirement level, and the productivity of printing and inspection deteriorates.

[0093] Hereinafter, this problem will be described based on the printed material with coating described above with reference to Figs. 4, 5A, and 5B.

[0094] As can be seen by comparing Figs. 4, 5A, and 5B, in the example of this printed material with coating, the overlapping mode (degree and condition of overlap, etc.) of the coating image CI with respect to the printed image PI is different for each type (object) of the coating image CI.

[0095] Specifically, the coating image CI of the alphabet "ABC" is in a mode that substantially coincides with the printed image PI of "ABC" (with a slightly wider character width), in other words, the degree of overlap with the printed image PI is the highest.

[0096] From another perspective, the shape or contour of the coating image CI of the object "A" has a high similarity to the shape (contour) of "A", and the same applies to the coating images CI of "B" and "C".

[0097] Also, the rectangular coating image CI formed in the middle of the paper S is a solid image having an area surrounding the printed image PI of "123", in other words, the degree of overlap with the printed image PI is the second highest.

[0098] From another perspective, the shape (outline) of the rectangular coating image CI has a low similarity to the shapes (outlines) of the numbers "1", "2", and "3".

[0099] In contrast, the five-star coating image CI formed at the lower part of the sheet S does not contact any of the printed images PI and exists independently. Therefore, the degree of overlap with the printed image PI is the lowest. In other words, there is no overlapping part with the printed image PI at all.

[0100] When comprehensively considering the above three examples (differences in overlapping modes), in many cases, if there are defects (such as disturbances in the coating image CI) at the overlapping part of the printed image PI and the coating image CI, especially at the outline part of the characters "ABC" above, it is easy to distinguish with the human eye.

[0101] On the other hand, it was found that at the non-overlapping part of the printed image PI and the coating image CI, such as the background part (the part where the stars are blurred) of the five-star coating image CI in the above example, even if there are some disturbances, they are not noticeable.

[0102] Based on the above actual situation, in this embodiment, the image inspection device 50 inspects the coating image CI according to the inspection level (inspection accuracy of the inspected product) set based on the overlapping mode of the printed image PI and the coating image CI read by the image reading device 30.

[0103] That is, the image inspection device 50 is set to change the accuracy (inspection level) of the image inspection applied to the coating image CI between the overlapping part and the non-overlapping part of the printed image PI and the coating image CI.

[0104] In addition, as a function of the "detection unit", the image inspection device 50 performs a process of detecting the non-overlapping part of the coating image CI that does not overlap with the printed image PI on the sheet S.

[0105] In one specific example, the image inspection device 50 acquires respective data (print image data and coating image data) for a print image PI and a coating image CI formed on the same surface of a single sheet of paper S, and detects the non-overlapping portions described above by comparing the formation positions (two-dimensional coordinates) of the respective images on the paper S.

[0106] Note that the image inspection device 50 can also detect the overlapping portions of the coating image CI overlapping the print image PI on the paper S during this detection process.

[0107] Subsequently, the image inspection device 50 performs the following processing as a function of the "setting unit".

[0108] That is, the image inspection device 50 sets the accuracy of the image inspection for the overlapping portions of the coating image CI overlapping the print image PI on the paper S to the normal accuracy (first inspection accuracy).

[0109] In one specific example, such first inspection accuracy is set to the same accuracy (inspection level) as when performing an image inspection on the print image PI.

[0110] On the other hand, the image inspection device 50 sets the accuracy of the image inspection for the non-overlapping portions of the coating image CI not overlapping the print image PI on the paper S to a second inspection accuracy that is lower (looser) than the normal accuracy (first inspection accuracy).

[0111] In one specific example, such second inspection accuracy is such that if the deviation in the formation mode of the coating image CI on the paper S where it is formed does not exceed a predetermined threshold value (for example, 0.5 mm) of image distortion, it is considered "no image defect", and if there is a deviation exceeding such threshold value, it is determined that "there is an image defect".

[0112] Examples of the deviation in the formation mode include deviation from the coordinate position on the paper S where it is originally formed (position deviation), and cases where the size formed on the paper S is larger or smaller than originally (size deviation), etc.

[0113] In this embodiment, after the above settings, image inspection of the coating image CI on the sheet S is performed in the procedure as described above in the flowchart of FIG. 3.

[0114] Thus, in this embodiment, inspection (inspection job) of the coating image CI is performed by selectively using a plurality of different precisions based on the relationship between the formation position of the printed image PI and the formation position of the coating image CI, so that both ensuring inspection quality and preventing the occurrence of unnecessary error determination can be achieved.

[0115] Also, according to this embodiment, inspection of the printed matter with coating, and the efficiency and productivity of printing can be improved.

[0116] Hereinafter, the setting level with the highest (strictest) inspection accuracy of the image inspection is referred to as the "first inspection accuracy", and conversely, the setting level with the loosest inspection accuracy is referred to as the "second inspection accuracy". Also, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the intermediate levels between these, that is, the setting levels with inspection accuracy stricter than the second inspection accuracy but looser than the first inspection accuracy will be described as the "third inspection accuracy".

[0117] Regarding the setting of each of the above precisions, it will be described with reference to FIG. 6 and the following, which are diagrams showing the components (objects) of the coating image CI shown in FIG. 5B separately. Here, FIG. 6A shows the object of the coating image CI set to the first inspection accuracy, and FIG. 6B shows the object of the coating image CI set to the second inspection accuracy.

[0118] That is, as can be seen with reference to FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B, the part of the character "ABC" almost completely coincides (overlaps) between the printed image PI and the coating image CI, so if there is a disturbance in the coating image CI, it is likely to be noticeable. For this reason, the first inspection accuracy is set for all parts of the coating image CI of the character "ABC" (see FIG. 6A).

[0119] In addition, since the rectangular solid-color coating image CI also overlaps with the number "123" in the printed image PI, any irregularities in such a rectangular image are likely to be prominent. Therefore, the first inspection accuracy is basically set for the rectangular solid-color coating image CI (see FIG. 6A).

[0120] On the other hand, the five-star coating images CI do not overlap with any of the printed images PI and are highly transparent (low density), so it is considered that even if there are some irregularities in the images, they are not likely to be prominent. Therefore, the first inspection accuracy is set for all parts of the five-star coating images CI (see FIG. 6B).

[0121] On the other hand, from another perspective, the rectangular solid-color coating image CI covers the number "123" in the printed image PI from above, which is different from the form in which the shapes (contours) are substantially the same, such as the letter "ABC".

[0122] Therefore, if the same inspection criteria as those for the coating image CI of the letter "ABC" are applied (set) to the rectangular solid-color coating image CI, there is a risk of being judged as non-conforming due to overly strict inspection, even though it is at a level that the general public can be sufficiently satisfied as a printed matter (product).

[0123] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the image inspection apparatus 50 does not uniformly apply the first inspection accuracy to the objects of the coating images CI overlapping the printed images PI on the sheet S, but determines the objects to be set to the third inspection accuracy (third level) based on the following criteria.

[0124] That is, as a function of the "detection unit", the image inspection apparatus 50 detects, among the overlapping portions of the coating images CI overlapping the printed images PI on the sheet S, the overlapping similar portions (objects) similar to the contour of the overlapping printed image PI and the overlapping non-similar portions (objects) not similar to the contour of the overlapping printed image PI.

[0125] Then, as a function of the "setting unit", the imaging inspection apparatus 50 sets the first inspection accuracy for the overlapping similar parts (objects) of the coating image CI, and sets the third inspection accuracy, which is lower than the first inspection accuracy and higher than the second inspection accuracy, for the overlapping dissimilar parts (objects) of the coating image CI.

[0126] As a result, for the object "ABC" of the coating image CI, the accuracy (level) of the imaging inspection is set to the first inspection accuracy as the overlapping similar part (object) (Fig. 9A). On the other hand, for the solid rectangle object of the coating image CI, the accuracy (level) of the imaging inspection is set to the third inspection accuracy as the overlapping dissimilar part (object) (Fig. 9C).

[0127] For the five star-shaped objects of the coating image CI, the accuracy (level) of the imaging inspection is set to the second inspection accuracy as the non-overlapping part (object) (Fig. 9B).

[0128] Other specific examples where it is considered good to set the accuracy (level) of the imaging inspection to the third inspection accuracy for the coating image CI are shown in Figs. 10A to 10C. The illustrated example shows a printed matter with a coating in which a coating image CI of seven star marks (see Fig. 10C) is formed on a color printed image PI of the character "STAR" (actually a red character) (see Fig. 10B).

[0129] Referring to Fig. 10A, the star marks, which are the objects constituting the coating image CI, each partially overlap the characters of the printed image PI, and the remaining parts do not overlap the characters of the printed image PI.

[0130] In the case of such an overlapping pattern where the coating image CI (object) partially overlaps the printed image PI (but does not completely overlap), it is not always easy to uniformly determine at what level to set the accuracy of the imaging inspection of the coating image CI.

[0131] In view of the above circumstances, in this embodiment, the user can adjust (specify) the third inspection accuracy (level) to an arbitrary accuracy (level) between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy, and the specific configuration will be described later.

[0132] Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7, the process related to the determination or setting of the inspection accuracy (level) for the coating image CI mainly executed by the image inspection apparatus 50 as a "detection unit" will be described in more detail.

[0133] Note that FIG. 7 shows a specific example of the flow of processing executed by the image inspection apparatus 50 when setting the inspection accuracy of the coating image CI based on the coating data in three levels, and also shows the processing after the corresponding print data is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 20 to the image inspection apparatus 50.

[0134] In step S11, the image inspection apparatus 50 selects and reads one object constituting the coating image CI from the coating data.

[0135] In a specific example, the "one object" in the printed matter with coating shown in FIG. 4 corresponds to one character in the characters "ABC", and in the case of five stars, it corresponds to "one star mark". Similarly, the "one object" in the printed matter with coating shown in FIG. 10A corresponds to "one star mark".

[0136] The image inspection apparatus 50 reads the shape (outline), the position (coordinates) formed on the paper S, the density of the image, etc. of one object from the coating data of such a printed matter.

[0137] In the subsequent step S12, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines the overlapping state between the object and the corresponding printed image PI, that is, determines the presence or absence of an overlapping portion.

[0138] In one specific example, the image inspection device 50 reads the position (coordinates of the contour) of the printed image PI formed on the sheet S from the print data acquired from the image forming device 20, and determines the presence or absence of an overlapping portion by comparing it with the position (coordinates) of the shape (contour) of the object.

[0139] Here, when the image inspection device 50 determines that there is no overlapping portion (overlap) with the printed image PI (step S12, NO), it determines (sets) the inspection accuracy of the coating image to the first inspection accuracy in step S16, and proceeds to step S18.

[0140] On the other hand, when the image inspection device 50 determines that there is an overlapping portion (overlap) with the printed image PI (step S12, YES), it transfers the process to step S13.

[0141] In step S13, the image inspection device 50 determines whether the shape (contour) of the object in the coating image CI is similar to the shape (contour) of the printed image PI.

[0142] In one specific example, in the case of the printed matter with coating shown in FIG. 4, for each character (object) of the characters "ABC", it is determined that they are "similar", and each "star mark" is determined to be "not similar". Similarly, for each "star mark" in the printed matter with coating shown in FIG. 10A, it is also determined to be "not similar".

[0143] Here, when the image inspection device 50 determines that the shapes (contours) of both images are not similar (step S13, NO), it transfers the process to step S15.

[0144] On the other hand, when the image inspection device 50 determines that the shapes (contours) of both images are similar (step S13, YES), it transfers the process to step S14.

[0145] In step S14, the image inspection device 50 determines (sets) the inspection accuracy of the object in the coating image CI to the first inspection accuracy, and proceeds to step S18.

[0146] On the other hand, in step S15, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines whether or not the object in the coating image CI is disposed on a solid (filled) single-color printed image PI.

[0147] Here, the "solid (filled) single-color printed image PI" includes either a case where the periphery (background) of the object in the coating image CI is a single-color filled image by the printed image PI or a case where there is no printed image PI, i.e., the ground color of the sheet S.

[0148] Here, specific examples of the former case, i.e., the case where the periphery (background) of the object in the coating image CI is a single-color filled image by the printed image PI, are shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C.

[0149] Here, FIG. 11A shows a printed matter with a coating in which a coating image CI composed of seven star-shaped objects is formed on a printed image PI with a dark background such as black. FIG. 11B shows a state where only the printed image PI based on the print data is formed on the sheet, and FIG. 11C shows a case where only the coating image CI based on the coating data is formed on the sheet, respectively.

[0150] Note that, for the latter case, i.e., the case where the periphery (background) of the object in the coating image CI is the ground color of the sheet S, i.e., there is no printed image PI, the example of FIG. 4 described above applies (see also FIG. 6B).

[0151] Here, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the object in the coating image CI is disposed on a solid (filled) single-color printed image PI (step S15, YES), in step S16, the inspection accuracy of the object in the coating image CI is determined (set) to the second inspection accuracy, and the process proceeds to step S18.

[0152] On the other hand, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the object in the coating image CI is not placed on the printed image PI with a solid (filled) single color (step S15, NO), in step S17, the inspection level (accuracy) of the object in the coating image CI is determined (set) to the third inspection accuracy, and the process proceeds to step S18.

[0153] In step S18, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines whether or not the reading of all the objects in the coating image CI to be printed has been completed.

[0154] Here, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the reading of all the objects has not been completed yet (step S18, NO), it returns to step S11 and repeats the processes of steps S11 to S18 described above.

[0155] On the other hand, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the reading of all the objects has been completed (step S18, YES), it ends the processing of this flowchart.

[0156] By performing the above-described processing, for each object in the coating image CI considering the relationship with the formation position of the printed image PI, the inspection accuracy is determined or set, so that an appropriate setting can be made according to general requirements.

[0157] Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to achieve both ensuring the inspection quality and preventing the occurrence of unnecessary error determinations, and thus the productivity of the printed matter with coating is improved.

[0158] Next, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the outline of the image inspection process for the coating image CI in the present embodiment will be described.

[0159] In step S20, the image inspection apparatus 50 receives, from the image reading apparatus 30, the read image data generated by scanning the coated printed matter by the output image reading unit 31 (see FIG. 2 and the like). Note that this step S20 corresponds to the process of step S200 described above with reference to FIG. 3.

[0160] In the subsequent step S31, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines whether the image quality of the coating portion (see step S14 in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9A) set to the first inspection accuracy among the read image data acquired in step S20 is good (quality OK) by comparing it with the data of the reference image of the corresponding page registered in step S100 of FIG. 3.

[0161] Here, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality of the coating portion is not good (quality NG) (step S31, NO), it determines that the image quality of such a printed matter is unqualified and proceeds to step S60. In this case, the image inspection apparatus 50 notifies the post-processing apparatus 40 to discharge the paper S of such a printed matter to a preset second tray (for example, the paper discharge tray 43 in FIG. 1) (step S60).

[0162] On the other hand, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality of the coating portion is good (quality OK) (step S31, YES), it determines that the image quality of the coating portion is qualified and proceeds to step S32.

[0163] In step S32, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines whether the image quality of the coating portion (see step S16 in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9B) set to the second inspection accuracy among the read image data acquired in step S20 is good (quality OK) by comparing it with the data of the reference image of the corresponding page registered in step S100 of FIG. 3.

[0164] Here, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality of the coating portion is not good (quality OK) (step S32, NO), it determines that the image quality of such a printed matter is unqualified, and executes the process of step S60 described above.

[0165] On the other hand, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality of the coating portion is good (quality OK) (step S32, YES), it determines that the image quality of the coating portion is qualified, and proceeds to step S33.

[0166] In step S33, the image inspection apparatus 50 determines whether the image quality of the coating portion is good (quality OK) by comparing the coating portion (refer to steps S17 in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9C) set to the third inspection accuracy among the read image data acquired in step S20 with the data of the reference image of the corresponding page registered in step S100 of FIG. 3.

[0167] Here, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality of the coating portion is not good (quality OK) (step S33, NO), it determines that the image quality of such a printed matter is unqualified, and executes the process of step S60 described above.

[0168] On the other hand, when the image inspection apparatus 50 determines that the image quality of the coating portion is good (quality OK) (step S33, YES), it determines that the image quality of such a printed matter is qualified, and proceeds to step S50. In this case, the image inspection apparatus 50 notifies the post-processing apparatus 40 to discharge the sheet S of such a printed matter to a preset first tray (for example, the paper discharge tray 42 in FIG. 1) (step S50).

[0169] According to the processing routine of the above image inspection (product inspection), the inspection of the coating image CI is performed according to the appropriate inspection level (accuracy) for each coating part (object in this example) based on the positional relationship with the printed image PI. Therefore, according to this embodiment, compared with the prior art, the number of defective products is reduced, and good qualified products with important parts inspected at a high accuracy (strict level) remain, improving the printing productivity.

[0170] In addition, when the quality of the object that requires the strictest accuracy (the coating image CI of each character of "ABC" in the example of FIG. 4) is defective (step S31, NO), the printed content of the paper S is regarded as defective regardless of the image quality of other objects (step S60), so there is no need to perform unnecessary inspections, and the product inspection process can be shortened.

[0171] An example of a setting screen for the user to arbitrarily set the third accuracy is shown in FIG. 12. The example shown in FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example in which the user can adjust the third product inspection accuracy in the printed matter with coating shown in FIG. 4, and shows an example of a user setting screen displayed on the display unit 26 of the image forming apparatus 20 based on the control of the image inspection apparatus 50.

[0172] As shown in FIG. 12, in this example, on the left side of the user setting screen, a printed matter with coating is displayed, and on the right side of the same screen, an accuracy setting unit 260 and an OK button 269 for the user to perform operation inputs are displayed.

[0173] In a specific example, the printed matter with coating displayed on the left side of the user setting screen is a pre-registered reference image.

[0174] In addition, a volume 261 for setting (designating) or changing the third product inspection accuracy is displayed on the accuracy setting unit 260. Such a volume 261 can be moved in several steps or steplessly between the graduations "1" and "2" according to the input operation of the user.

[0175] Here, scale "1" represents an accuracy approximately equal to the first inspection accuracy (a strict level), and scale "2" represents an accuracy approximately equal to the second inspection accuracy (a lenient level).

[0176] And the printed matter with coating displayed on the left side in the user setting screen is displayed with different colors for the objects according to each level of inspection accuracy based on the analysis result of the coating data image by the image inspection apparatus 50.

[0177] In one specific example, the coating image CI (object) to which the first inspection accuracy with the strictest inspection level is applied is displayed in red (R: Red), and the coating image CI (object) to which the second inspection accuracy with a lenient inspection level is applied is displayed in green (G: Green).

[0178] Also, the coating image CI (object) to which the third inspection accuracy with an inspection level intermediate between the first and second inspection accuracies is applied is displayed in yellow (Y: Yellow).

[0179] Therefore, the color of the coating image CI in the printed matter with coating displayed in the user setting screen is different from the color of the actually printed coating material.

[0180] For the sake of convenience in explanation, in FIG. 12, a symbol (R) is added to the red coating image CI, a symbol (G) is added to the green coating image CI, and a symbol (Y) is added to the yellow coating image CI, respectively.

[0181] Thus, according to the present embodiment that displays the user setting screen as described above, the third inspection accuracy can be arbitrarily adjusted. For this reason, it is possible to cope with the inspection of various printed matters with coating, such as the printed matter with coating described in FIGS. 4, 10A, and 11A, and those with more complicated patterns (printed images or lacquer-coated images).

[0182] Furthermore, when the initial position of the volume 261 (the intermediate position between the graduations "1" and "2") is changed by a user's input operation, the image inspection apparatus 50 performs processing to change the display color of the coating image CI(Y) according to the position.

[0183] Specifically, the image inspection apparatus 50 performs processing to change the display color of the coating image CI(Y) such that the closer the position of the volume 261 is to the graduation "1", the color becomes one with an increasing red (R) component.

[0184] Conversely, the image inspection apparatus 50 performs processing to change the display color of the coating image CI(Y) such that the closer the position of the volume 261 is to the graduation "2", the color becomes one with an increasing green (G) component.

[0185] When the display form is as described above, it becomes easier for the user to sensuously imagine the third inspection accuracy level (degree of strictness or looseness).

[0186] For simplicity, in FIG. 12, an example is illustrated of a form in which only an image of a printed matter with a coating, which is displayed in a color corresponding to the applied inspection accuracy, is displayed in the user setting screen.

[0187] On the other hand, as described above, the color of the coating image CI in the printed matter with a coating displayed in the user setting screen is different from the actually formed coating image. For this reason, a demand from a user who wants to perform the setting of the third inspection accuracy after grasping (confirming) the actually printed color can be considered.

[0188] In view of the above, the image inspection apparatus 50 displays the user setting screen as shown in FIG. 12 after the display of the print preview screen, or incorporates and displays it within the print preview screen.

[0189] Next, an outline of the processing at the time of inspection setting when the print preview screen and the user setting screen described above in FIG. 12 are displayed will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 13.

[0190] When the printing job is executed, the image inspection device 50 acquires print data and coating data from the control unit 200 of the image forming device 20 (step S1).

[0191] Next, the image inspection device 50 detects the overlap (the presence or absence of the overlapping portion and the position on the paper) between the printed image PI and the coating image CI from the acquired print data and coating data (step S2).

[0192] In the subsequent step S3, the image inspection device 50 performs the processes of steps S11 to S18 described above with reference to FIG. 7, that is, the processes of determining the first, second, and third inspection accuracies.

[0193] Here, the image inspection device 50 determines the inspection accuracy of the coating image (object) for which an overlap (overlap) with the print data has been detected to be the first inspection accuracy (strict level) (step S14), determines the determination content as a confirmed value, and sets it in the setting data.

[0194] On the other hand, for the coating image (object) for which no overlap (overlap) with the print data is detected, the image inspection device 50 determines the inspection accuracy to be the second inspection accuracy (step S16) which is a loose level or the third inspection accuracy (step S17) which is an intermediate level through the above-described determinations in steps S13 and S15.

[0195] Then, the image inspection device 50 also determines the determination content determined to be the second inspection accuracy (loose level) as a confirmed value and sets it in the setting data. On the other hand, the image inspection device 50 determines that the determination content determined to be the third inspection accuracy (intermediate level) has not yet been confirmed.

[0196] In the subsequent step S4, the image inspection device 50 executes a process of simultaneously displaying the above-described print preview screen and the user setting screen described with reference to FIG. 12 on the display unit 26 of the image forming device 20 based on the print data and the varnish application data.

[0197] Here, the image inspection apparatus 50 monitors an input signal from the operation display unit 25 and receives a user's instruction regarding the third inspection accuracy. Thus, the user can specify the level of the third inspection accuracy for the object of the coating image CI(Y) described with reference to FIG. 12.

[0198] Thus, in step S5 after the OK button 269 is selected by the user, the image inspection apparatus 50 updates the setting data so as to set the corresponding object of the coating image CI(Y) to the level specified on the user setting screen.

[0199] Thereafter, the image inspection apparatus 50 performs an inspection process as described with reference to FIG. 8, so that the image inspection of the printed matter with coating is executed according to the preset inspection accuracy for each object of the coating image CI.

[0200] As described above, according to the present embodiment in which the inspection accuracy is appropriately changed (used properly) in consideration of the positional relationship with the printed image PI during the image inspection of the coating image CI of the printed matter with coating, it is possible to achieve both ensuring the inspection quality and preventing the occurrence of unnecessary error determination.

[0201] For the sake of simplicity, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the image inspection apparatus 50 sets and applies a single (one type) of inspection accuracy (inspection level) for each object constituting the coating image CI (for example, for each star mark shown in FIG. 10C).

[0202] On the other hand, the present invention is not limited to this, and the image inspection apparatus 50 may be configured to set (apply) a plurality of types of inspection accuracies for one object constituting the coating image CI. Specifically, for one star mark shown in FIG. 10C, a first inspection accuracy (high level) may be set for the portion overlapping with the printed image PI (characters), and a second inspection accuracy (low level) may be set for the portion not overlapping with the printed image PI (characters).

[0203] In the above embodiment, a system using an image forming apparatus 20 that forms each image of a printed matter with coating based on print image data and coding data received from one PC (Personal Computer) 60 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0204] As another example, the image forming apparatus 20 may be configured to receive print image data and coding data from separate terminals (such as a network server). Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 20 may be configured to include an automatic document feeder such as an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) (not shown) and a document image scanning apparatus (scanner).

[0205] In the above embodiment, an example in which the paper feeding apparatus 10, the image reading apparatus 30, and the post-processing apparatus 40 are separate apparatuses with respect to the image forming apparatus 20 has been described, but it goes without saying that these apparatuses may be integrated.

[0206] Also, in the above embodiment, each is merely an example of a specific implementation when carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed in a limited manner by these. That is, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist or its main features.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0207] 1 Image forming system 10 Paper feeding apparatus 20 Image forming apparatus 21 Print image forming unit 22 Fixing unit 23 Coating image forming unit 25 Operation display unit 26 Display unit 27 Operation unit 30 Image reading apparatus (image reading unit) 31 Output image reading unit 40 Post-processing apparatus 41 Sorting unit 42, 43 Sheet Feeding Tray 50 Image Inspection Device (Image Inspection Unit) 60 PC 51, 52 Data Storage Unit 80 Relay Device 200 Control Unit of Image Forming Device 260 Precision Setting Unit 261 Volume 269 OK Button PI Printed Image CI Coating Image

Claims

1. Before inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the first inspection area that is inspected with a first inspection accuracy with respect to the displayed reference image, it is displayed in a first color. For the second inspection area that is inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy, it is displayed in a second color different from the first color. For the third inspection area that is inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy, it is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color, and a display control unit; When comparing and inspecting the reference image and a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy, and an inspection unit; A transmission unit that transmits the result of the inspection; having; When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change. An image inspection device.

2. The display control unit displays a screen for changing the inspection accuracy. The image inspection device according to claim 1.

3. The reference image is displayed on the screen. The image inspection device according to claim 2.

4. The display control unit displays the object in the first inspection area in the first color, the object in the second inspection area in the second color, and the object in the third inspection area in the third color. The image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The third color is changed according to the change in the third inspection accuracy. The image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The reference image is an image acquired from an image reading device. The image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The transmission unit transmits the type of image defect and the position of the image defect in the sheet. The image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The display control unit displays the correspondence between the inspection accuracy and the color. The image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. Before inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area inspected with a first inspection accuracy is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. A display control unit; When comparing and inspecting the reference image with a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. An inspection unit; A transmission unit that transmits the result of the inspection; having When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within a range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of change. An image inspection system.

10. The display control unit displays a screen for changing the inspection accuracy. The image inspection system according to claim 9.

11. The reference image is displayed on the screen. The image inspection system according to claim 10.

12. The display control unit displays the object in the first inspection area in the first color, the object in the second inspection area in the second color, and the object in the third inspection area in the third color. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. The third color is changed according to the change of the third inspection accuracy. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The reference image is an image acquired from an image reading device. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

15. The transmission unit transmits the type of image defect and the position of the image defect in the paper. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 9 to 14.

16. The display control unit displays the correspondence between the inspection accuracy and the color. The image inspection system according to any one of claims 9 to 15.

17. Before the inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area to be inspected with a first inspection accuracy is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area to be inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area to be inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. When comparing and inspecting the reference image with a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. The step of transmitting the result of the inspection. It has When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within the range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of change. Image inspection method.

18. The step of displaying includes displaying a screen for changing the inspection accuracy. The image inspection method according to claim 17.

19. The reference image is displayed on the screen. The image inspection method according to claim 18.

20. The step of displaying includes displaying an object in the first inspection area in the first color, an object in the second inspection area in the second color, and an object in the third inspection area in the third color. The image inspection method according to any one of claims 17 to 19.

21. The third color is changed according to the change in the third inspection accuracy. The image inspection method according to any one of claims 17 to 20.

22. The reference image is an image acquired from an image reading device. The image inspection method according to claim 17 or 21.

23. The step of transmitting includes transmitting the type of image defect and the position of the image defect within the paper. The image inspection method according to any one of claims 17 to 22.

24. The step of displaying includes displaying the correspondence between the inspection accuracy and the color. The image inspection method according to any one of claims 17 to 23.

25. Before the inspection, a reference image is displayed. For the displayed reference image, a first inspection area to be inspected with a first inspection accuracy is displayed in a first color, a second inspection area to be inspected with a second inspection accuracy lower than the first inspection accuracy is displayed in a second color different from the first color, and a third inspection area to be inspected with a third inspection accuracy between the first inspection accuracy and the second inspection accuracy is displayed in a third color different from the first color and the second color. When comparing and inspecting the reference image with a read image of an image formed on a recording medium, the first inspection area is inspected with the first inspection accuracy, the second inspection area is inspected with the second inspection accuracy, and the third inspection area is inspected with the third inspection accuracy. The step of transmitting the result of the inspection. It has When changing the third inspection accuracy set for the reference image displayed on the display unit, the third inspection accuracy can be changed within the range between the first inspection accuracy at the time of the change and the second inspection accuracy at the time of the change. Image inspection program.

26. The step of displaying is to display a screen for changing the inspection accuracy. The image inspection program according to claim 25.

27. The reference image is displayed on the screen. The image inspection program according to claim 26.

28. The step of displaying is to display the object of the first inspection area in the first color, the object of the second inspection area in the second color, and the object of the third inspection area in the third color. The image inspection program according to any one of claims 25 to 27.

29. The third color is changed according to the change of the third inspection accuracy. The image inspection program according to any one of claims 25 to 28.

30. The reference image is an image acquired from an image reading device. The image inspection program according to any one of claims 25 to 29.

31. The step of transmitting is to transmit the type of image defect and the position of the image defect in the paper. The image inspection program according to any one of claims 25 to 30.

32. The step of displaying is to display the correspondence between the inspection accuracy and the color. The image inspection program according to any one of claims 25 to 31.

Images