Image forming apparatus and image inspection method

Abstract

To provide an image formation device and image inspection method which can detect an abnormal image at a level desired by a user in printing.SOLUTION: An image formation device 20 includes a plurality of image inspection devices 60, 70, and an image inspection result control part 47 which changes an inspection level of at least one of the image inspection devices 60, 70 depending on whether image inspection results of the image inspection devices 60, 70 are the same or different.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including an image inspection device that inspects whether an image printed on a sheet by a printing mechanism (printed image) is normal or abnormal, and an image inspection method. [Background technology]

[0002] In the future, it is being considered to install an image inspection device in an IP machine (large-format inkjet machine) as an image forming apparatus. The image inspection device inspects the image printed by the image forming apparatus for normality or abnormalities such as ink deficiencies (including image deficiencies). The maximum paper size that an IP machine can print is "B2+". For this reason, as shown in an example in Figure 24, an IP machine 10 is equipped with two CCDs (charge coupled devices) 12a and 12b that read a single printed image 11. The two CCDs 12a and 12b split the single printed image 11 into two parts and read them. The two read images 11a and 11b are then inspected individually by two image inspection devices 13a and 13b.

[0003] An image inspection device with a configuration of two reading devices for this type of image detection is described in Patent Document 1. When there is a defect in both images read by the two reading devices, this image inspection device determines that one of the reading devices is defective if the defects occur in different positions. If the defects in both images are in the same position, both reading devices determine that there is an image defect. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-154027 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] 24, two CCDs 12a and 12b are arranged so that their reading areas partially overlap. Printed image 11 is divided into two parts, and each read image 11a and 11b is read by each CCD. Images 11a1 and 11b1 within the same area are read from the overlapping area. Therefore, when inspecting each read image 11a and 11b, image inspection devices 13a and 13b inspect the images 11a1 and 11b1 within the same area. Therefore, it has become necessary to perform an inspection taking into consideration the read images 11a and 11b when they include the same region (also called images within the same region) 11a1 and 11b1.

[0006] Here, it is assumed that each of the image inspection devices 13a and 13b inspects an overlapping region of the reading positions of each of the CCDs 12a and 12b. In this case, as shown in pattern P1 in Fig. 25, if the inspection results of the images 11a1 and 11b1 within the same region among the read images 11a and 11b read by the respective CCDs 12a and 12b are both normal (OK), the image inspection devices 13a and 13b determine the final inspection result of the overlap region as OK. On the other hand, as shown in pattern P4, if the inspection results of the images 11a1 and 11b1 within the same region read by the respective CCDs 12a and 12b are both abnormal (NG), the image inspection devices 13a and 13b determine the final inspection result of the overlap region as NG.

[0007] However, as shown in pattern P2 or P3, when one of the inspection results of the images 11a1 and 11b1 in the same region is OK and the other is NG, the image inspection devices 13a and 13b cannot determine whether the final inspection result of the overlap region is OK or NG. Therefore, the user must set the inspection level of the image inspection devices 13a and 13b.

[0008] The reading accuracy of the CCDs 12a and 12b varies depending on the individual elements. Therefore, when a small ink defect occurs in the overlap area, one of the image inspection devices 13a and 13b may judge it as OK, while the other may judge it as NG. To deal with this, the user must set the inspection level to the desired level value for each image inspection device 13a and 13b in advance.

[0009] For example, consider a case where the inspection result of the image 11a1 within the same area is OK, but the inspection result of the image 11b1 within the same area is NG, as shown in pattern P2 in Fig. 25. If the user determines that the inspection result of the overlapping area of ​​this printed image is OK, he or she sets the inspection level so that the final inspection results of both scanned images 11a and 11b are OK.

[0010] In this case, the inspection level of the image inspection device 13b that inspected the image within the same region 11b1 as NG is too high, so the user sets the inspection level of the image inspection device 13b to a low level. With this setting, the printed matter by the image forming device 10 is output as normal, so the user can continue printing without being aware of it.

[0011] On the other hand, if the user determines that the inspection result of the overlapping area of ​​the printed image is NG, the user sets the inspection level so that the final inspection results of both the scanned images 11a and 11b are NG.

[0012] In this case, the inspection level of the image inspection device 13a that inspected the image within the same area 11a1 as OK is too low, so the user sets the inspection level of the image inspection device 13a higher. This setting causes the printed matter from the image forming device 10 to be output as abnormal, and the corresponding printed paper is discharged to a purge tray separate from the normal paper output tray. The behavior during reprinting differs depending on whether the reprint setting for abnormal output of the image forming device 10 is set to "auto resume" or "pause." If the reprint setting for abnormal output is set to "auto resume," the image forming device 10 reprints from the page discharged to the purge tray. In this case, the image forming device 10 determines that the inspection level of the image inspection device 13a that inspected the image within the same area 11a1 as OK is too low. This means that the image inspection device 13a may not be able to detect abnormal images at the level desired by the user.

[0013] Consider the case where the reprint setting for abnormal output is "pause" and the user's restart instruction is "continue printing." Continuing printing means that the user returns the paper from the purge tray to the normal paper output tray and resumes printing. In this case, the image forming device can determine that the inspection level of the image inspection device 13b, which detected the image 11b1 in the same area as NG, is too high. In other words, there is a risk that the image inspection device 13b will detect abnormal images at a higher level than the user desires.

[0014] Consider the case where the reprint setting for abnormal output is "pause" and the user's restart instruction is "reprint." Reprinting means that the image forming device resumes printing from the page discharged to the purge tray. In this case, the image forming device can determine that the inspection level of the image inspection device 13a, which inspected the image 11a1 in the same area as OK, is too low. In other words, the image inspection device 13a may not be able to detect abnormal images to the level desired by the user.

[0015] Furthermore, the image inspection device in Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration the case where only one of the images read by the two reading devices has a defect, and in this case, the user cannot determine whether the defect in the printed image is acceptable or not.

[0016] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and an image inspection method that can detect abnormal images at a level desired by a user during printing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] That is, the above-mentioned problems of the present invention are solved by the following configuration.

[0018] (1) A method for inspecting a printed image, comprising: a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; and an image inspection result control unit for changing the control of at least one of the image inspection devices when the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different. The image inspection result control unit can set different inspection levels for each of the image inspection devices. Image forming device.

[0019] (2) The system comprises a plurality of image inspection devices that inspect printed images, an image inspection result control unit that changes the control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different, a printing unit that prints images on a recording medium, and an operation display unit that allows a user to set whether the final inspection result is a normal image or an abnormal image before or after printing by the printing unit when the image inspection results of images including the same area in printed images by the plurality of image inspection devices are different. Image forming device.

[0020] (3) The system includes a plurality of image inspection devices that inspect printed images, an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices when the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different, and a printing unit that prints the image on a recording medium, and during printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the plurality of image inspection devices are different and the image is set to be a normal image, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be an abnormal image. Image forming device.

[0021] (4) The system comprises a plurality of image inspection devices that inspect printed images, an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different, and a printing unit that prints images on a recording medium, and if the image inspection results of the plurality of image inspection devices for images including the same area in printed images are different during printing, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the printing unit is set to automatically reprint from the page where the abnormal image was detected, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. Image forming device.

[0022] (5) The system comprises a plurality of image inspection devices that inspect printed images, an image inspection result control unit that changes the control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different, and a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium, and if the system is set to determine that the final inspection result is an abnormal image and temporarily suspend printing by the printing unit during printing when image inspection results for images including the same area in printed images by the plurality of image inspection devices are different, when reprinting is performed upon resumption of printing, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be normal. Image forming device.

[0023] (6) The system comprises a plurality of image inspection devices that inspect printed images, an image inspection result control unit that changes the control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different, and a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium, and if the system is set to determine that the final inspection result is an abnormal image and temporarily stop printing by the printing unit during printing when image inspection results for images including the same area in printed images by the plurality of image inspection devices are different, when continuous printing is performed after printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined that the image is an abnormal image. Image forming device.

[0024] (7) Any one of the above (1) to (6), wherein each of the image inspection devices reads the printed image in a divided manner, and each of the regions read by each of the image inspection devices includes the same region in the printed image. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

[0025] (8) The above (1) further includes a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

[0026] (9) (8) The apparatus further comprises an operation display unit that allows a user to set whether the final inspection result is a normal image or an abnormal image before or after printing by the printing unit when the image inspection results for images including the same region in printed images by the plurality of image inspection devices are different. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

[0027] (10) (8) The image inspection device further includes an operation display unit that allows a user to set whether to automatically reprint the page from which the abnormal image was detected or to temporarily stop printing when the image inspection device detects an abnormal image during printing by the printing unit. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

[0028] (11) During printing, if the image inspection results of the multiple image inspection devices for images including the same region in the printed image are different and the image is set to be a normal image, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be an abnormal image, (8) above. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

[0029] (12) (8) above: if, during printing, the image inspection results of the multiple image inspection devices for images including the same region in the printed image are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the printing unit is set to automatically reprint from the page where the abnormal image was detected, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

[0030] (13) The image forming apparatus described in (8) above, wherein if during printing, the image inspection results for images containing the same area in printed images obtained by multiple image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image and printing by the printing unit is temporarily stopped, then when reprinting is performed when printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. (14) In the image forming apparatus described in (8) above, if the image inspection results for images containing the same area in printed images obtained by multiple image inspection devices differ during printing, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if printing by the printing unit is set to be temporarily stopped, when printing is resumed and continued printing is performed, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be abnormal. (15) An image forming apparatus according to any one of (11) to (14) above, wherein the image inspection result control unit judges the printed image when printing starts, and increases the inspection level if the printed image is in photo mode, and decreases the inspection level if the printed image is in text mode. (16) An image forming apparatus according to any one of (11) to (14) above, wherein the image inspection result control unit determines the type of recording medium at the start of printing, and increases the inspection level if the recording medium is glossy paper, and decreases the inspection level if the recording medium is recycled paper. (17) A step in which a plurality of image inspection devices each divide and read a printed image, a step in which images including the same area in each divided and read printed image are inspected, and a step in which control of at least one of the plurality of image inspection devices is changed depending on whether the image inspection results at the time of printing are the same or different. setting different inspection levels for the plurality of image inspection devices; Imaging inspection method to perform. [Effects of the Invention]

[0031] The present invention makes it possible to detect abnormal images at a level desired by the user during printing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a bus connection configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a printed image and a read image divided into two parts. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a first display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a first display screen for setting a first automatic inspection level displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a second display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a third display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a fourth display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a first display screen for setting first and second automatic inspection levels displayed on a setting menu. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first inspection result of an image within the same region in a scanned image divided into two parts. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a second display screen for setting the first and second automatic inspection levels displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a fifth display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second inspection result of an image within the same region in a scanned image divided into two parts. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a third display screen for setting the first and second automatic inspection levels displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a sixth display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a seventh display screen of common settings displayed on the setting menu. [Figure 18] 1 is a first flowchart for explaining various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment prints an image on paper. [Figure 19] 10 is a second flowchart for explaining various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment prints an image on paper. [Figure 20] 10 is a third flowchart for explaining various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment prints an image on paper. [Figure 21] 10 is a fourth flowchart for explaining various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment prints an image on paper. [Figure 22]10 is a fifth flowchart for explaining various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment prints an image on paper. [Figure 23] 10 is a sixth flowchart for explaining various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment prints an image on paper. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a conventional printed image and a two-part read image. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the inspection results of images within the same region in a conventional two-part scanned image. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, in all the drawings in this specification, components having corresponding functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate. <Configuration of the embodiment>

[0034] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] The image forming apparatus 20 shown in FIG. 1 is a printing press that prints images such as characters and graphics on paper (recording media). The image forming apparatus 20 is configured with a DFE (Digital Front End) 30 that processes data to be input to the printing press, an engine controller 40, a print engine 50, and two image inspection devices 60 and 70. This image forming apparatus 20 corresponds to the IP machine described above. A single large printed image, such as a B2+ paper size, is divided into two parts and read using two CCDs, and the two read images are individually inspected using the two image inspection devices 60 and 70. These two CCDs are installed so that the reading areas of each CCD overlap. The image inspection device 60 is also referred to as the first image inspection device 60, and the image inspection device 70 is also referred to as the second image inspection device 70.

[0036] The engine controller 40, print engine 50, and image inspection devices 60 and 70 described above each have the following components shown in FIG. 2 . Specifically, the engine controller 40 has a data transmission / reception unit 41, an engine control unit 42, and an image inspection result control unit 47, and the print engine 50 has a print control unit 51. The first image inspection device 60 has a reading device (CCD) 61, a read image processing unit 62, a reference image control unit 63, an inspection image control unit 64, and an image comparison inspection control unit 65. The second image inspection device 70 has a reading device (CCD) 71, a read image processing unit 72, a reference image control unit 73, an inspection image control unit 74, and an image comparison inspection control unit 75. The image comparison inspection control unit 65 of the first image inspection device 60 is also referred to as the first inspection control unit 65, and the image comparison inspection control unit 75 of the second image inspection device 70 is also referred to as the second inspection control unit 75.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 20 includes a controller 45 having multiple CPUs (Central Processing Units) 46, and the controller 45 includes an engine controller 40 and an image inspection result control unit 47. The controller 45 and an operation display unit 48 are connected to a bus 92, which is connected to a display 81 such as a liquid crystal display as a display unit and a touch panel 82 as an operation unit. However, the touch panel 82 is superimposed on the display 81 to form a single touch panel display. The image inspection result control unit 47 controls at least one of the image inspection devices 60 and 70 via a network 86. The operation display unit 48 displays a screen on the display 81 in response to a user operation.

[0038] Also connected to the bus 92 are a scanner 83, a printer 84, a FAX (facsimile) 85, and, via a network 86, image inspection devices 60, 70 and a print engine 50. Furthermore, connected to the bus 92 are an HDD / SSD (Hard Disk Drive / Solid State Drive) 87, a USB IF (Universal Serial Bus Interface) 88, a Serial IF 89, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 90 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 91.

[0039] In FIG. 2, a data transmitter / receiver 41 of an engine controller 40 receives data such as a display image from a personal computer (not shown) via a network, and outputs the received data to an engine control unit 42.

[0040] The engine control unit 42 controls the output of the input received data to the print control unit 51 of the print engine 50. The print control unit 51 controls the printing of an image corresponding to the received data onto paper. This results in a print sheet 53. The image printed on this print sheet 53 is called a print image 11 (FIG. 4). Note that the print engine 50 constitutes the printing unit described in the claims.

[0041] The image inspection result control unit 47 changes the control of at least one of the image inspection devices 60, 70 depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices 60, 70 are the same or different. This allows the image inspection devices 60, 70 to detect abnormal images to the level desired by the user during printing. The specific operation of the image inspection result control unit 47 will be described later with reference to Figures 18 to 23.

[0042] In the image inspection devices 60 and 70, each reading device (CCD) 61 and 71 reads the printed image 11 shown in FIG. 4, which is printed on a single sheet of printing paper 53, by dividing it into two parts. The two CCDs 61 and 71 are arranged so that the reading areas partially overlap. The two read images 11a and 11b contain the same areas 11a1 and 11b1 that are the reading areas of the overlapping areas.

[0043] Therefore, the image inspection devices 60 and 70 perform inspections taking into consideration the read images 11a and 11b that include the same region (also called images within the same region) 11a1 and 11b1, and the read images 11a2 and 11b2 that do not include the same region 11a1 and 11b1 (also called images outside the same region).

[0044] 2 have the same configuration, the first image inspection device 60 will be mainly described as a representative. In the first image inspection device 60, the reading device 61 outputs the read image 11a of the printing paper 53, which has been divided into two and read as described above, to the read image processing unit 62. The read image processing unit 62 outputs the read image 11a to the reference image control unit 63 and the inspection image control unit 64.

[0045] The reference image control unit 63 holds a plurality of reference images and outputs a reference image to be compared with the input scanned image 11a. The inspection image control unit 64 outputs the input scanned image 11a to the first inspection control unit 65 as an inspection image.

[0046] The first inspection control unit 65 compares the inspection image with the reference image at a preset inspection level (described later), and outputs an OK (normal) inspection result if the two are the same, or an NG (abnormal) inspection result if they are different, to the image inspection result control unit 47. This control is similarly performed in the second image inspection device 70. However, the higher the inspection level, the more accurately it is possible to inspect (or detect) ink defects and the like.

[0047] In addition, when the inspection results OK or NG of each image inspection device 60, 70 are the same or different from each other, the image inspection result control unit 47 changes the control by raising or lowering the inspection level of at least one of the image comparison inspection control units 65 or 75 of the image inspection device 60 or 70.

[0048] For example, if the inspection result of the first image inspection device 60 is OK and the inspection result of the second image inspection device 70 is NG, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the inspection level for the second inspection control unit 75 of the second image inspection device 70 that output the NG result. Lowering the inspection level in this way reduces the image detection accuracy of the second inspection control unit 75 that output the NG result, so that excessive detection of abnormal conditions such as ink deficiency in the inspection image is prevented. This allows the sensitivity of the image inspection device 70 to be closer to that of the image inspection device 60.

[0049] Next, a case where the user sets the inspection level in advance will be described. On the touch panel display in which the display 81 and the touch panel 82 of the image forming apparatus 20 shown in Fig. 3 are integrated for display and operation, a common setting screen (common setting screen) 100 is displayed in the setting menu 200 shown in Fig. 5 under the control of the image inspection result control unit 47.

[0050] The common setting screen 100 displays various settings necessary for the user to set and operate the settings, and various touch buttons for performing the setting operations. The common setting screen 100 displays various settings, such as content loss detection automatic reprint 101, out-of-standard image output destination 102, automatic inspection report creation 103, within-standard report creation 104, first automatic inspection level setting 105, second automatic inspection level setting 106, and final inspection result setting 107.

[0051] Content Missing Detection Automatic Reprint 101 (also called Automatic Reprint 101) is a notation that asks whether to perform automatic reprinting when content missing such as ink missing in a printed image is detected. This Automatic Reprint 101 displays touch buttons "Yes" 101a and "No" 101b aligned side by side and associated with each other.

[0052] The non-standard image output destination 102 (also referred to as output destination 102) is a notation that asks for a setting operation for the output destination of paper for print images that are not currently set to the standard. This output destination 102 displays a touch button "Same as Job" 102a, which sets the output to the normal output tray, and a touch button "Purge Tray" 102b, which sets the output to the purge tray, side by side and associated with each other.

[0053] Automatic Inspection Report Creation 103 is a notation that asks whether or not to create a report when an inspection image is automatically inspected by the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 (FIG. 2) of the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70. This Automatic Inspection Report Creation 103 displays touch buttons for "Yes" 103a and "No" 103b side by side in association with each other.

[0054] Create Standard Report 104 is a display that asks whether or not to create a report that is within the standard when the inspection image is automatically inspected by the first and second inspection control units 65, 75. Create Standard Report 104 displays touch buttons "Yes" 104a and "No" 104b side by side in association with each other.

[0055] The first automatic inspection level setting (also called the first inspection level setting) 105 is a representation of the setting of the inspection level when the first inspection control unit 65 automatically inspects the inspection image, and is displayed next to a touch button for "Detailed settings" 105a for displaying a separate screen for setting operations.

[0056] The second automatic inspection level setting (also called the second inspection level setting) 106 is a representation of the setting of the inspection level when the second inspection control unit 75 automatically inspects the inspection image, and is displayed next to a touch button for "Detailed settings" 106a for displaying a separate screen for setting operations.

[0057] The final inspection result setting 107 is a notation that allows the user to set the final inspection result of the scanned images 11a and 11b containing the same areas 11a1 and 11b1 as either OK or NG. The final inspection result setting 107 displays a touch button for "Normal Image" 107a that sets the final inspection result as OK and a touch button for "Abnormal Image" 107b that sets the final inspection result as NG, which are aligned side by side.

[0058] Next, a process for variably controlling the inspection level related to the first and second inspection control units 65 and 75 shown in FIG. 2 will be described.

[0059] When the user touches "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 shown in FIG. 5, a first automatic inspection level setting screen 105G is displayed in the setting menu 200 shown in FIG. 6. This screen 105G displays the inspection density levels "Loose: 02," "Normal: 04," "Strict: 07," and "Current Value: 04" as the inspection levels for detecting missing content. The higher the inspection density level, the more accurately content defects such as ink defects can be detected. The inspection density level is also referred to as the inspection level.

[0060] The numerical values ​​of the inspection density levels in the example shown in Figure 6, "Loose: 02," "Normal: 04," "Strict: 07," and "Current Value: 04," are set by the user by pressing the number buttons from 0 to 9 and the black circle button. With this setting, the first inspection control unit 65 of the first image inspection device 60 (Figure 2) compares both the inspection image and the reference image at the inspection level of "Current Value: 04," and outputs an OK inspection result if the two are the same, or an NG inspection result if they are different, to the image inspection result control unit 47 (Figure 2). This control is similarly performed by the second inspection control unit 75 of the second image inspection device 70.

[0061] The image inspection result control unit 47 increases or decreases the inspection level of at least one of the image comparison inspection control units 65 or 75 of the image inspection device 60 or 70 when the inspection results of each image inspection device 60, 70 are the same or different from each other (OK or NG).

[0062] For example, if the inspection result of the overlap area by the first inspection control unit 65 is OK and the inspection result of the overlap area by the second inspection control unit 75 is NG, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the "current value" of the inspection density level for the second image inspection device 70 from "04" to "03." Lowering the inspection level in this way reduces the inspection accuracy of the image by the second inspection control unit 75 that issued the NG result, so the inspection result may become OK. This may result in the inspection results of both the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70 becoming OK.

[0063] Next, assume that the first and second inspection control units 65 and 75 give different inspection results (OK or NG) for the same regions 11a1 and 11b1 (FIG. 4). In this case, the user sets the final inspection result setting 107 shown in FIG. 7 to "normal image" 107a or "abnormal image" 107b. This setting can be made either before or after the image inspection, and is performed on the operation display unit 48 (FIG. 3).

[0064] For example, when the user performs a setting operation to set the final inspection result setting 107 to "normal image" 107a, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result to OK (normal). In this case, the print control unit 51 outputs the print paper 53 (FIG. 2) normally. On the other hand, when the user performs a setting operation to set the final inspection result setting 107 to "abnormal image" 107b, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result to NG. In this case, the print control unit 51 ejects the print paper 53 (FIG. 2) to the purge tray.

[0065] Next, the user can set in advance whether to perform automatic reprinting when the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 detect content loss in the print image 11 (FIG. 4) during printing controlled by the print control unit 51 (FIG. 2). This setting is performed by the user operating the "Yes" 101a or "No" 101b touch buttons of the automatic reprint 101 shown in FIG.

[0066] Next, assume that during printing under the control of the print control unit 51, if the image inspection results for the same area 11a1, 11b1 in the printed image 11 by the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 are different, the final inspection result is set to a normal image (OK). In this setting, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the inspection level (reduces the numerical value of the inspection level) of the image inspection device (for example, the second image inspection device 70) that it has determined to be an abnormal image (NG).

[0067] For example, before printing, in response to the setting operation of "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 and "Detailed Settings" 106a of the second inspection level setting 106 shown in Fig. 9, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the inspection level of the first automatic inspection level setting screen 105G shown in Fig. 10 to the current value "04", and sets the inspection level of the second automatic inspection level setting 106G to the current value "04". Furthermore, in response to the setting operation of "Normal Image" 107a of the final inspection result setting 107 shown in Fig. 9, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result to a normal image (OK).

[0068] In this setting state, let us assume that the print control unit 51 (FIG. 2) performs control to start printing. During this printing, let us assume that the inspection result of the inspection image by the second inspection control unit 75 for the same region 11b1 of the inspection image is NG (abnormal image), and that the inspection result of the inspection image by the first inspection control unit 65 is OK (normal image).

[0069] 11, assume that the inspection result of the same region 11a1 of the first scanned image 11a as the inspection image is OK, and the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the second scanned image 11b as the inspection image is NG. These inspection results of OK and NG are output from the first and second inspection control units 65 and 75 to the image inspection result control unit 47. At this time, the final inspection result of P2 is set to OK (normal image).

[0070] Since the final inspection result is set to OK, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the identical area 11b1 is OK (normal image). Based on this determination, the print control unit 51 continues printing.

[0071] Furthermore, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the inspection level is high because the inspection result of the second inspection control unit 75 is NG, and lowers the inspection level of the second inspection control unit 75. That is, the image inspection result control unit 47 outputs an instruction to the second inspection control unit 75 to lower the current value of the second automatic inspection level by one from "04" to "03." Then, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the current value "04" on the second automatic inspection level setting screen 106G shown in FIG. 10 by one to the current value "03" shown in FIG. 12.

[0072] Next, assume that if the image inspection results for the identical areas 11a1, 11b1 by the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 differ during printing under the control of the print control unit 51, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image (NG), and reprinting is automatically performed from the page where the abnormal image was detected. In this setting, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the inspection level of the image inspection device (e.g., the first image inspection device 60) that determined one of the identical areas 11a1, 11b1 to be a normal image (OK).

[0073] For example, before printing, in accordance with the setting operations of "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 and "Detailed Settings" 106a of the second inspection level setting 106 shown in Figure 13, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the inspection level of the first inspection control unit 65 to "04" and the inspection level of the second inspection control unit 75 to "04".

[0074] Also, it is assumed that the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result to an abnormal image (NG) in response to the setting operation of "Abnormal Image" 107b of the final inspection result setting 107 shown in Fig. 13. Furthermore, it is assumed that the engine control unit 42 sets automatic reprinting to be performed in response to the setting operation of "Yes" 101a of the content loss detection automatic reprinting 101 shown in Fig. 13.

[0075] In this setting state, it is assumed that the print control unit 51 performs control to start printing. During this printing, it is assumed that the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the inspection image by the second inspection control unit 75 is NG, and therefore the inspection result of the inspection image is NG (abnormal image). It is also assumed that the inspection result of the inspection image by the first inspection control unit 65 is OK.

[0076] 14, the inspection result of the same region 11a1 of the first scanned image 11a was OK, and the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the second scanned image 11b was NG. These inspection results of OK and NG are output from the first and second inspection control units 65 and 75 to the image inspection result control unit 47. At this time, the final inspection result of P2 is set to NG (abnormal image).

[0077] Since the final inspection result is set to NG, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the second scanned image 11b, which is the inspection image, is NG (abnormal image). Based on this determination, the print control unit 51 ejects the print sheet 53 containing the abnormal image to a separate paper ejection tray, and then automatically reprints the page containing the abnormal image again.

[0078] Furthermore, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the inspection level is low because the inspection result of the first inspection control unit 65 is OK, and increases the inspection level of the first inspection control unit 65. That is, the image inspection result control unit 47 outputs an instruction to the first inspection control unit 65 to increase the current value of the first automatic inspection level by one from "04" to "05" via the "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 shown in FIG. 5. In response to this instruction, the first inspection control unit 65 increases the current value "04" on the first inspection level setting screen 105G shown in FIG. 10 by one to the current value "05" shown in FIG. 15.

[0079] Next, during printing under the control of the print control unit 51, if the image inspection results of the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 for the scanned images 11a, 11b containing the same areas 11a1, 11b1 in the printed image 11 are different, the final inspection result is set to an abnormal image (NG) and the user sets printing to be temporarily stopped via the operation display unit 48 (FIG. 3). With this setting, when reprinting is performed by the user upon restarting printing, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the inspection level of, for example, the first inspection control unit 65, which determined the image to be normal (OK).

[0080] For example, before printing, in accordance with the setting operations of "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 shown in FIG. 16 and "Detailed Settings" 106a of the second inspection level setting 106, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the inspection level of the first inspection level setting screen 105G shown in FIG. 10 to the current value "04" and sets the inspection level of the second inspection level setting 106G to the current value "04".

[0081] Also, it is assumed that the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result to an abnormal image (NG) in response to the setting operation of "Abnormal Image" 107b of the final inspection result setting 107 shown in Fig. 16. Furthermore, it is assumed that the image inspection result control unit 47 sets automatic reprinting not to be performed in response to the setting operation of "No" 101b of the content loss detection automatic reprinting 101 shown in Fig. 16.

[0082] In this setting state, it is assumed that the print control unit 51 performs control to start printing. During this printing, it is assumed that the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the inspection image by the second inspection control unit 75 is NG, and therefore the inspection result of the inspection image is NG (abnormal image). It is also assumed that the inspection result of the inspection image by the first inspection control unit 65 is OK.

[0083] 14, the inspection result of the same region 11a1 of the first scanned image 11a was OK, and the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the second scanned image 11b was NG. These inspection results of OK and NG are output from the first and second inspection control units 65 and 75 to the image inspection result control unit 47. At this time, the final inspection result of P2 is set to NG (abnormal image).

[0084] Since the final inspection result is set to NG, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the second scanned image 11b, which is the inspection image, is NG (abnormal image). Based on this determination, the print control unit 51 ejects the print sheet 53 containing the abnormal image to a separate paper ejection tray, and then the image forming device 20 temporarily stops.

[0085] At this time, the user checks the print image 11 on the print paper 53 discharged to the paper discharge tray, and if the user determines that the image is abnormal, the user operates to have the image determined to be abnormal reprinted.

[0086] On the other hand, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the inspection level is low because the inspection result of the first inspection control unit 65 is OK, and increases the inspection level of the first inspection control unit 65. That is, the image inspection result control unit 47 outputs an instruction to the first inspection control unit 65 to increase the current value of the first automatic inspection level by one from "04" to "05" via the "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 shown in FIG. 5. In response to this instruction, the first inspection control unit 65 increases the current value "04" on the first inspection level setting screen 105G shown in FIG. 10 by one to the current value "05" shown in FIG. 15.

[0087] Next, during printing under the control of the print control unit 51, if the image inspection results of the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 for the scanned images 11a, 11b containing the same areas 11a1, 11b1 in the printed image 11 are different, the final inspection result is set to an abnormal image (NG), and the user also sets printing to be temporarily stopped via the operation display unit 48 (FIG. 3). Under this setting, if the user operates to continue printing when printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the inspection level of, for example, the second inspection control unit 75, which determined that the image was abnormal (NG).

[0088] For example, before printing, in accordance with the setting operations of "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 shown in FIG. 16 and "Detailed Settings" 106a of the second inspection level setting 106, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the inspection level of the first inspection level setting screen 105G shown in FIG. 10 to the current value "04" and sets the inspection level of the second inspection level setting 106G to the current value "04".

[0089] Also, it is assumed that the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result of the first image inspection device 60 to an abnormal image (NG) in response to the setting operation of "Abnormal Image" 107b of the Final Inspection Result Settings 107 shown in Fig. 16. Furthermore, it is assumed that the engine control unit 42 sets automatic reprinting to not be performed in response to the setting operation of "No" 101b for Automatic Reprint 101.

[0090] In this setting state, it is assumed that the print control unit 51 performs control to start printing. During this printing, it is assumed that the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the inspection image by the second inspection control unit 75 is NG, and therefore the inspection result of the inspection image is NG (abnormal image). It is also assumed that the inspection result of the inspection image by the first inspection control unit 65 is OK.

[0091] 14, the inspection result of the same region 11a1 of the first scanned image 11a was OK, and the inspection result of the same region 11b1 of the second scanned image 11b was NG. These inspection results of OK and NG are output from the first and second inspection control units 65 and 75 to the image inspection result control unit 47. At this time, the final inspection result of P2 is set to NG (abnormal image).

[0092] Since the final inspection result is set to NG, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the second scanned image 11b, which is the inspection image, is NG (abnormal image). Based on this determination, the print control unit 51 ejects the print sheet 53 containing the abnormal image to a separate paper ejection tray, and then the image forming device 20 temporarily stops.

[0093] At this time, the user checks the printed image 11 on the printing paper 53 discharged to the paper discharge tray, and if the user determines that the image is abnormal, the user operates the printer so that printing continues (continues printing) from the image next to the image determined to be abnormal.

[0094] On the other hand, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines that the inspection level is high because the inspection result of the second inspection control unit 75 is NG, and lowers the inspection level of the second inspection control unit 75. That is, the image inspection result control unit 47 outputs an instruction to the second inspection control unit 75 to lower the current value of the second automatic inspection level by one from "04" to "03" via the "Detailed setting" 106a of the second inspection level setting 106 shown in FIG. 17. In response to this instruction, the second inspection control unit 75 lowers the current value "04" on the second inspection level setting screen 106G shown in FIG. 10 by one to the current value "03" shown in FIG. 12.

[0095] In addition, in the image forming device 20, when printing starts under the control of the print control unit 51, the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 determine whether the print image 11 is in photo mode or text mode, and if it is in photo mode, the inspection level is increased, and if it is in text mode, the inspection level is decreased, after which printing starts.

[0096] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 20, when printing starts, the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 determine the paper type of the print paper 53, and if it is glossy paper, the inspection level is increased, and if it is recycled paper, the inspection level is decreased, after which printing begins. However, the inspection level is decreased in the case of recycled paper in order to avoid picking up noise such as fibers that appear on the surface of the paper during recycling.

[0097] <Operation of the embodiment>

[0098] Next, various settings and operations when the image forming apparatus 20 according to this embodiment prints an image on paper will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

[0099] In step S1 shown in Fig. 18, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets a first inspection level in the first image inspection device 60 (Fig. 2). For example, the user operates "Detailed Settings" 105a of the first inspection level setting 105 (see Fig. 9) to display the first inspection level setting screen 105G (see Fig. 10), and sets the current value of the first inspection level to "04." In response to this setting operation, the image inspection result control unit 47 (Fig. 2) sets the first inspection level of the first image inspection device 60 to "04."

[0100] In step S2, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the second inspection level in the second image inspection device 70 (FIG. 2). For example, the user operates "Detailed Settings" 106a of the second inspection level setting 106 (see FIG. 9) to display the second inspection level setting screen 106G (see FIG. 10), and operates to set the current value of the second inspection level to "04." In response to this operation setting, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the second inspection level of the second image inspection device 70 to "04."

[0101] In step S3, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result. For example, when the user operates "Normal image" 107a or "Abnormal image" 107b of the final inspection result setting 107 shown in Fig. 9, the image inspection result control unit 47 sets the final inspection result to OK (normal) or NG (abnormal).

[0102] In step S4, the user sets automatic reprinting upon content loss detection. For example, when the user sets automatic reprinting 101 shown in Fig. 9 to "Yes" 101a, the engine control unit 42 sets itself to perform automatic reprinting. On the other hand, when the user sets automatic reprinting 101 to "No" 101b, the engine control unit 42 sets itself not to perform automatic reprinting.

[0103] In step S5, information is received that the user has pressed a print start button (not shown) on image forming device 20. This pressing causes engine control unit 42 to output image data from a personal computer (not shown) to print control unit 51 (FIG. 2), which then prints an image corresponding to the image data onto paper. This results in printed print paper 53.

[0104] In step S6, the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70 use the reading devices 61, 71 (FIG. 2) to read the printed image 11 (FIG. 4) on the printing paper 53, dividing it into two parts. The read images 11a, 11b read in two parts are output from the read image processing units 62, 72 to the reference image control units 63, 73 (FIG. 2) and the inspection image control units 64, 74 (FIG. 2).

[0105] In step S7, the inspection image control units 64, 74 hold the input scanned image 11a as an inspection image and output it to the first and second inspection control units 65, 75. At this time, the reference image control units 63, 73 output to the first and second inspection control units 65, 75 a reference image to be compared with the scanned images 11a, 11b.

[0106] 19, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the printed image 11 is in photo mode. If the result of this determination is that the printed image 11 is in photo mode (Yes), then in step S9, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the inspection level of the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70. Then, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0107] In addition, in this flowchart, when only the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70 are described, if components such as the first and second inspection control units 65, 75, which are components of each image inspection device 60, 70, perform processing, only those components will be described and explained.

[0108] On the other hand, if the determination in step S8 above is that the print image 11 is not in the photo mode (No), then in step S10, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the print image 11 is in the character mode.

[0109] If the result of this determination is that the mode is text (Yes), then in step S11, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the inspection level of the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70. Then, the process proceeds to step S12. If the result of the determination in step S10 is that the mode is not text (No), the process also proceeds to step S12.

[0110] In step S12, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the type of printing paper 53 on which the print image 11 is printed is glossy paper or not.

[0111] If the result of this determination is that the paper is glossy (Yes), then in step S13, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the inspection level of the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S16 shown in FIG.

[0112] On the other hand, if the determination in step S12 shown in FIG. 19 is that the printing paper 53 is not glossy paper (No), then in step S14, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the printing paper 53 is recycled paper or not.

[0113] If the result of this determination is that the paper is recycled (Yes), then in step S15, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the inspection level of the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70. After this, the process proceeds to step S16 shown in Figure 20. If the result of the determination in step S14 above is that the paper is not recycled (No), the process also proceeds to step S16.

[0114] 20, the print control unit 51 (FIG. 2) prints one page, whereby the print image 11 is printed on the printing paper 53.

[0115] In step S17, the print image 11 is divided into two parts and read by the readers 61, 71 of the first and second image inspection devices 60, .

[0116] In step S18, the first or second inspection control unit 65, 75 determines whether an abnormal image (NG) has been detected from the scanned images 11a, 11b. If no abnormal image has been detected (No), in step S19, the print control unit 51 controls the print sheet 53 (FIG. 2) to be discharged to the normal tray (discharge tray).

[0117] After this, in step S20, the print control unit 51 determines whether the print sheet 53 discharged to the tray is the last page. If the result of this determination is that it is not the last page (No), the process returns to step S16 and one page is printed.

[0118] On the other hand, if it is the last page (Yes), in step S21, the inspection image control units 64, 74 of the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70 delete the inspection images that are being held.

[0119] On the other hand, if an abnormal image (NG) is detected in the scanned images 11a, 11b (Yes) in step S18, the first or second inspection control unit 65, 75 determines whether an abnormal image is detected in the same region 11a1, 11b1 of the scanned images 11a, 11b in step S22 shown in FIG. As a result of this determination, it is determined that an abnormal image is not detected in the same region 11a1, 11b1 (No). In other words, in steps S18, S22, the first or second inspection control unit 65, 75 determines that an abnormal image is detected in an area other than the same region 11a1, 11b1 of the scanned images 11a, 11b.

[0120] If the determination is No, then in step S23, the print control unit 51 ejects the print paper 53 to a purge tray (not shown).

[0121] Next, in step S24, the engine control unit 42 determines whether automatic reprinting is set to be performed in response to the setting operation of "Yes" 101a of the content loss detection automatic reprinting 101 (FIG. 13).

[0122] If the setting indicates that automatic reprinting is to be performed (Yes), then in step S25 the engine control unit 42 resets the page to be reprinted to the page discharged to the purge tray in step S23. After this, the process returns to step S16 in Fig. 20, and the print control unit 51 automatically reprints from the page that was discharged.

[0123] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S24 shown in FIG. 21 is that automatic reprinting is not to be performed (No), then in step S26 the print control unit 51 temporarily stops printing.

[0124] Thereafter, in step S27, the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not reprinting has been set by the user. If the result of this determination is that reprinting has been set (Yes), the process returns to step S25 and continues.

[0125] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S27 above is that reprinting is not set (No), then in step S28 the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not continuous printing has been set by the user. If the result of this determination is that continuous printing is not set (No), the process returns to step S27 above and continues.

[0126] If the result of the determination in step S28 above is that continuous printing is set (Yes), the process returns to step S16 in FIG. 20, and the next page is printed under the control of the print control unit 51.

[0127] 21, it is assumed that the first or second inspection control unit 65, 75 has detected an abnormal image in the same region 11a1, 11b1 of the scanned images 11a, 11b (Yes). In this case, in step S29 shown in FIG. 22, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the abnormal image has been detected by the first inspection control unit 65 of the first image inspection device 60.

[0128] If the first inspection control unit 65 determines that an abnormal image has been detected (Yes), then in step S30 the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the final inspection result is a normal image. If the final inspection result is determined to be a normal image (Yes), then in step S31 the print control unit 51 ejects the print paper 53 with the normal image to a normal tray.

[0129] Thereafter, in step S32, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the value of the first automatic inspection level setting of the first image inspection device 60. For example, the image inspection result control unit 47 lowers the current value "04" on the first inspection level setting screen 105G (see FIG. 10) by one to "03." Thereafter, the process returns to step S20 in FIG. 20 and continues.

[0130] On the other hand, if the final inspection result is determined to be not a normal image (No) in step S30 shown in FIG. 22, the print control unit 51 discharges the print paper 53 to a purge tray in step S33.

[0131] Next, in step S34, the engine control unit 42 determines whether automatic reprinting is set to be performed in response to the setting operation of "Yes" 101a of the content loss detection automatic reprinting 101 (FIG. 14).

[0132] If the result of this determination is that automatic reprinting is to be performed (Yes), then in step S35, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the value of the second automatic inspection level setting. For example, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the current value "04" on the second inspection level setting screen 106G (see FIG. 10) by one to "05." Thereafter, the process returns to step S25 in FIG. 21 and continues.

[0133] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S34 shown in FIG. 22 is that automatic reprinting is not to be performed (No), then in step S36 the print control unit 51 temporarily stops printing.

[0134] Thereafter, in step S37, the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not reprinting has been set by the user. As a result, if reprinting has been set (Yes), the process returns to step S35 and continues.

[0135] On the other hand, if reprinting is not set (No), in step S38, the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not continuous printing has been set by the user. If the result of this determination is that continuous printing is not set (No), the process returns to step S37 and continues.

[0136] If the result of the determination in step S38 is that continuous printing is set (Yes), the process returns to step S32 and continues.

[0137] Next, it is assumed that the determination result in step S29 shown in FIG. 22 is that the abnormal image detected in step S22 above was not detected by first inspection control unit 65 of first image inspection device 60 (No).

[0138] In this case, in step S39 shown in Fig. 23, the image inspection result control unit 47 determines whether the final inspection result is a normal image. As a result, if it is determined that the final inspection result is a normal image (Yes), in step S40, the print control unit 51 ejects the print paper 53 with the normal image to a normal tray.

[0139] Thereafter, in step S41, the image inspection result control unit 47 decreases the value of the second automatic inspection level setting. For example, the image inspection result control unit 47 decreases the current value "04" on the second inspection level setting screen 106G shown in Fig. 10 by one to the current value "03" shown in Fig. 12. Thereafter, the process returns to step S20 in Fig. 20 and continues.

[0140] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S39 that the final inspection result is not a normal image (No), then in step S42 the print control unit 51 ejects the print paper 53 onto a purge tray.

[0141] Next, in step S43, in response to the setting operation of "Yes" 101a of the content loss detection automatic reprint 101 (see FIG. 1314), the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not automatic reprinting is set to be performed.

[0142] If the result of this determination is that automatic reprinting is to be performed (Yes), then in step S44, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the value of the first automatic inspection level setting. For example, the image inspection result control unit 47 increases the current value "04" on the first inspection level setting screen 105G (see FIG. 10) by one to "05." After this, the process returns to step S25 in FIG. 21 and continues.

[0143] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S43 shown in FIG. 23 is that automatic reprinting is not to be performed (No), then in step S45 the print control unit 51 temporarily stops printing.

[0144] Thereafter, in step S46, the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not reprinting has been set by the user. If the result of this determination is that reprinting has been set (Yes), the process returns to step S44 and continues.

[0145] On the other hand, if reprinting is not set (No), in step S47, the engine control unit 42 determines whether or not continuous printing has been set by the user. As a result, if continuous printing is not set (No), the process returns to step S46 and continues.

[0146] If the result of the determination in step S47 is that continuous printing is set (Yes), the process returns to step S41 and continues.

[0147] The image forming apparatus 20 of this embodiment described above is equipped with a plurality of image inspection devices 60, 70 that inspect printed images, and an image inspection result control unit 47 that changes the control of at least one of the image inspection devices 60, 70 depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices 60, 70 are the same or different.

[0148] For example, suppose the inspection result of the first image inspection device 60 is normal (OK) and the inspection result of the second image inspection device 70 is abnormal (NG). In this case, for example, if the inspection level of the printed image 11 of the second image inspection device 70 is lowered, the inspection accuracy of the printed image 11 of the second image inspection device 70 that gave the NG result will decrease, and the inspection result will become OK. This allows the inspection results of both the first and second image inspection devices 60, 70 to be OK. In this way, since the inspection levels of the printed images 11 of the multiple image inspection devices 60, 70 can be automatically adjusted, the inspection levels of the printed images 11 of the multiple image inspection devices 60, 70 can be adjusted so that printed images 11 that are acceptable to the user can be automatically obtained.

[0149] Although the configuration according to this embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0150] 20 Image forming device 30 DFE 40 Engine Controller 41 Data transmission / reception unit 42 Engine control unit 47 Image Test Results Control Unit 48 Operation display section 50 Print Engine 51 Printing control unit 60,70 Image inspection equipment 61,71 Reader (CCD) 62,72 Image reading processing section 63,73 Reference image control section 64,74 Inspection image control unit 65,75 Image comparison inspection control unit

Claims

1. a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different; Equipped with The image inspection result control unit is capable of setting different inspection levels for each of the image inspection devices. Image forming device.

2. a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different; a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; an operation display unit that allows a user to set whether the final inspection result is a normal image or an abnormal image before or after printing by the printing unit when image inspection results for images including the same region in printed images obtained by the multiple image inspection devices are different; and Equipped with Image forming device.

3. a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different; a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; Equipped with During printing, if the image inspection results of the multiple image inspection devices for images including the same region in the printed image are different and the image is set to be a normal image, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be an abnormal image. Image forming device.

4. a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different; a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; Equipped with During printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the plurality of image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the printing unit is set to automatically reprint from the page where the abnormal image was detected, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. Image forming device.

5. a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different; a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; Equipped with During printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the multiple image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the setting is such that printing by the printing unit is temporarily stopped, when reprinting is performed when printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. Image forming device.

6. a plurality of image inspection devices for inspecting printed images; an image inspection result control unit that changes control of at least one of the image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results of the image inspection devices are the same or different; a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; Equipped with During printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the multiple image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the setting is to temporarily stop printing by the printing unit, when continuous printing is performed after printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be an abnormal image. Image forming device.

7. each of the image inspection devices reads the printed image in a divided manner, and each of the regions read by each of the image inspection devices includes the same region in the printed image; The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:

9. The image inspection device further includes an operation display unit that allows a user to set whether the final inspection result is a normal image or an abnormal image before or after printing by the printing unit when image inspection results for images including the same region in printed images by the multiple image inspection devices are different. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

10. The image inspection device further includes an operation display unit that allows a user to set whether to automatically reprint the page from which the abnormal image was detected or to temporarily stop printing when the image inspection device detects an abnormal image during printing by the printing unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

11. During printing, if the image inspection results of the multiple image inspection devices for images including the same region in the printed image are different and the image is set to be a normal image, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be an abnormal image. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

12. During printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the plurality of image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the printing unit is set to automatically reprint from the page where the abnormal image was detected, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

13. During printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the multiple image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the setting is such that printing by the printing unit is temporarily stopped, when reprinting is performed when printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit increases the inspection level of the image inspection device that determined the image to be normal. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

14. During printing, if the image inspection results for images including the same area in the printed image obtained by the multiple image inspection devices are different, the final inspection result is determined to be an abnormal image, and if the setting is to temporarily stop printing by the printing unit, when continuous printing is performed after printing is resumed, the image inspection result control unit lowers the inspection level of the image inspection device that has determined the image to be an abnormal image. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

15. the image inspection result control unit judges the print image at the start of printing, and increases the inspection level if the print image is in a photo mode, and decreases the inspection level if the print image is in a character mode; The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. the image inspection result control unit determines the type of recording medium at the start of printing, and increases the inspection level if the recording medium is glossy paper, and decreases the inspection level if the recording medium is recycled paper; The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

17. A step in which a plurality of image inspection devices each divide and read a print image; A step of inspecting images including the same area in each of the divided and read print images; changing the control of at least one of the plurality of image inspection devices depending on whether the image inspection results at the time of printing are the same or different; setting different inspection levels for the plurality of image inspection devices; Imaging inspection method to perform.

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