Image inspection device, image inspection system, and image inspection program

Abstract

To suitably generate an image inspection result when a read image is divided in the paper width direction.SOLUTION: An image inspection system 500 includes a reading unit 30 that reads an image formed on a printed matter, a first inspection unit 13 that inspects left read image data 12 including one obtained by dividing an image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction, a second inspection unit 23 that inspects right read image data 22 including the other divided image, a first generating unit 14 that generates first inspection image data related to the left read image data 12 on the basis of the inspection result of the first inspection unit 13, and a second generation unit 24 that generates second inspection image data for the right read image data 22 on the basis of the inspection result of the second inspection unit 23.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image inspection device, an image inspection method for the image inspection device, and an image inspection system. [Background technology]

[0002] As a technology related to an image inspection device, Patent Document 1 discloses the following technology: "The image inspection device comprises a reading unit that reads an image formed on paper by an image forming device and generates a read image; a read image analysis unit that analyzes the read image to detect abnormalities and generates an analysis result; and a file generation unit that generates a normal image file including a read image in which no abnormalities were detected based on the analysis result" (see abstract of Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-11472 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The maximum paper size for a typical electrophotographic printer is generally A3 size, which is 297 mm x 420 mm. On the other hand, for large one-pass inkjet printers, the maximum paper size exceeds B2 (515 mm x 728 mm) and can reach 585 mm x 750 mm.

[0005] Some image scanning units for image inspection of large printers have a configuration in which two imaging units are connected in parallel to acquire scanned images across the entire width of the paper. This is because a configuration in which two imaging units are connected in parallel is generally more cost-effective than using a single imaging unit that is elongated in the main scanning direction. This allows the image scanning unit to read two scanned images that are divided in the paper width direction.

[0006] Here, the two image processing units analyze two scanned images divided in the paper width direction in parallel. Compared to analyzing a single scanned image with one image processing unit, processing two scanned images in parallel with two image processing units requires half the processing speed, which is advantageous in terms of cost.

[0007] The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 describes analyzing a scanned image and generating an analysis result file. However, the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 does not describe generating an image inspection result when the scanned image is divided in the paper width direction, and does not solve the problem of generating an image inspection result when the scanned image is divided in the paper width direction.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention is intended to generate an image inspection result in an appropriate manner when the scanned image is divided in the paper width direction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] That is, the above-mentioned problems of the present invention are solved by the following configuration. (1) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; Transmitting the generated first test image data and the generated second test image data one by one; Image inspection equipment.

[0010] (2) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; Transmitting the plurality of first test image data and the plurality of second test image data together, Image inspection equipment.

[0011] (3) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; In addition to providing a report generating unit that generates a report in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately arranged on a page-by-page basis; Furthermore, Image inspection equipment.

[0012] (4) The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are The first read image and the second read image are displayed in a double-page spread by a viewer in accordance with the arrangement of the first read image and the second read image. Claim 3 The image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0013] (5) The report generation unit The first test image data and the second test image data are generated in units of one page each and alternately allocated. Claim 3 or 4 The image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0014] (6) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are Each includes an inspection result for the first scanned image and the second scanned image. Image inspection equipment.

[0015] (7) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit generating the first read image or the second read image when the other one contains an abnormality; Image inspection equipment.

[0016] (8) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the acquisition unit that acquired the first read image or the second read image to the first test image data and / or the second test image data; Image inspection equipment.

[0017] (9) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with Either the first inspection unit or the second inspection unit a first mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the first read image or the second read image; a second mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the correct image data corresponding to the inverted first read image or the inverted second read image; a third mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the inspection result of the second inspection unit; Further provided with The first inspection unit and the second inspection unit are Inspecting the first read image and the second read image by comparing them with the correct image data. Image inspection equipment.

[0018] (10) The above Acquisition department teeth, a first reading unit and a second reading unit disposed at different positions in a main scanning direction relative to the recording medium; A claim comprising: Any one of items 1 to 9 The image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0019] (11) The above acquisition an image dividing unit that divides the image read from the recording medium into the first read image and the second read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; Further claims Any one of items 1 to 9 The image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0020] (12) The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; From claim 1 Any of 11 1. An image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0021] (13) The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order to the first test image data and the second test image data so that the first test image data and the second test image data are consecutive; Claim 12 The image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0022] (14) The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order to the first test image data and the second test image data so that the first test image data and the second test image data are alternately consecutive; Claim 13 The image inspection device according to claim 1.

[0023] (15) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; Transmitting the generated first test image data and the generated second test image data one by one; picture Image inspection system.

[0024] (16) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; Transmitting the plurality of first test image data and the plurality of second test image data together, picture Image inspection system.

[0025] (17) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; In addition to providing a report generating unit that generates a report in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately arranged on a page-by-page basis; A plan that further includes Image inspection system. (18) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are Each includes an inspection result for the first scanned image and the second scanned image. picture Image inspection system. (19) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit generating the first read image or the second read image when the other one contains an abnormality; picture Image inspection system. (20) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the acquisition unit that acquired the first read image or the second read image to the first test image data and / or the second test image data; picture Image inspection system. (twenty one) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Acquisition section to acquire and, The aforementioned Scanned image a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the portions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; The aforementioned Scanned image a second inspection unit that inspects a second scanned image including the other of the divided portions; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second test image data regarding the second scanned image based on the test result of the second test unit; Equipped with Either the first inspection unit or the second inspection unit a first mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the first read image or the second read image; a second mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the correct image data corresponding to the inverted first read image or the inverted second read image; a third mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the inspection result of the second inspection unit; Further provided with The first inspection unit and the second inspection unit are Inspecting the first read image and the second read image by comparing them with the correct image data. picture Image inspection system. (twenty two) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Steps to obtain , The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; transmitting the generated first test image data and the generated second test image data one by one; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above. (twenty three) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Steps to obtain , The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, adding information about the order of the first test image data and the second test image data to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively; a step of transmitting a plurality of the first test image data and a plurality of the second test image data together; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above. (twenty four) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Steps to obtain , The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, generating a report in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately arranged on a page-by-page basis; An image inspection program that causes a computer to execute the above. (twenty five) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Steps to obtain , The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are Each includes an inspection result for the first scanned image and the second scanned image. Image inspection program. (26) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Steps to obtain , The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, generating the first read image or the second read image when the other one contains an abnormality; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above. (27) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Get your hands on order, The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, adding information relating to acquisition of the first scanned image or the second scanned image to the first inspection image data and / or the second inspection image data; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above. (28) An image was formed Recording media Read the read image Steps to obtain , The aforementioned Scanned image The first scanned image including one of the divided images is inspected. procedure, The aforementioned Scanned image Inspect the second scanned image including the other divided part. procedure, The aforementioned First scanned image generating first inspection image data for the first read image based on the inspection result of procedure, The aforementioned Second scanned image generating second inspection image data for the second scanned image based on the inspection result of An image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, a step of mirror-inverting the first read image or the second read image; a step of mirror-inverting the correct image data corresponding to the inverted first read image or the inverted second read image; a step of mirror-inverting the inspection result of the second read image; Further provided with a step of comparing the first read image and the second read image with correct image data to inspect the first read image and the second read image; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the present invention, when the scanned image is divided in the paper width direction, it is possible to generate an image inspection result suitably. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image inspection system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of an image inspection system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing functions of the image inspection system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a report with a result bookmark hierarchy. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an inspection result file including a result bookmark hierarchy. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which inspection images are combined. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which only abnormal images in the scanned image are combined with inspection images. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which the inspection image remains divided (part 1). [Figure 8B]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which the inspection image remains divided (part 2). [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which only abnormal images in the scanned image and inspection images are left divided (part 1). [Figure 9B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which only abnormal images in the scanned image and inspection images are left divided (part 2). [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which inspection images are arranged alternately while still being divided. [Figure 10B] This is an example of a screen displaying a double-page spread of an inspection result file in which inspection images are arranged alternately while still being divided. [Figure 11A] In contrast to FIG. 10A, this figure shows an inspection result file in which the two images without abnormalities are not included, and the inspection images are arranged alternately while remaining divided. [Figure 11B] In contrast to FIG. 10B, this figure shows an inspection result file in which the two images without abnormalities are not included, and the inspection images are arranged alternately while remaining divided. [Figure 12A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection result file in which inspection images are arranged alternately while still divided, and a result bookmark layer is added. [Figure 12B] This is an example of a screen displaying an inspection result file with divided inspection images arranged alternately and a result bookmark layer added. [Figure 13A] 11B shows an inspection result file in which the two images without abnormalities are not included, the inspection images are arranged alternately as they are, and a result bookmark layer is added, in contrast to FIG. 11A. [Figure 13B] This figure shows an inspection result file in which the two images without abnormalities are not included, the inspection images are arranged alternately while remaining divided, and a result bookmark layer is added, in comparison with FIG. 11B. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image inspection system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image inspection system according to a sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The following describes in detail embodiments of the present invention. Note that the embodiments described below are examples for realizing the present invention, and should be appropriately modified or changed depending on the configuration of the device to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. In addition, in each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0029] First Embodiment 1, the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment is configured to include two computers 1 and 2 as image inspection devices, two scanners (a first scanner 3 and a second scanner 4) as reading units, and a computer 5 as a report generating unit and an inspection result file generating unit. As a result, the image inspection system 500 can inspect an image of a printed matter 200 printed by a single printer 6 as an image forming device.

[0030] The printer 6 outputs a printed matter 200 by printing an image on recording paper. The printer 6 may be, for example, a one-pass (single-pass) inkjet printer, but is not limited to this. After being printed by the printer 6, the printed matter 200 is transported in a sub-scanning direction 201 (see FIG. 1 ) by a well-known transport mechanism (not shown). The sub-scanning direction 201 corresponds to the vertical direction of the printed matter 200. The main scanning direction corresponds to the horizontal direction of the printed matter 200.

[0031] The first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 are a first reading unit and a second reading unit that optically read image data printed on the printed matter 200. The first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 function as reading units that read the image formed on the printed matter 200. The first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 transmit the read image data read from the printing unit 200 to the computers 1 and 2 via the buses 511 and 522, respectively.

[0032] As described above, the first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction to read the image formed on the printed material 200. Furthermore, the first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 are arranged a predetermined distance above the printed material 200 being transported.

[0033] Here, the first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 may employ, for example, a reduction optical system. The first scanner 3 scans a scan area 3A that includes the left half of the printed matter 200. Specifically, the left edge of the scan area 3A of the first scanner 3 is a predetermined number of pixels to the left of the left edge of the printed matter 200, and the right edge of the scan area 3A is a predetermined number of pixels to the right of the center of the width of the printed matter 200.

[0034] The second scanner 4 also scans a scan area 4A that includes the right half of the printed matter 200. Specifically, the right edge of the scan area 4A of the second scanner 4 is located a predetermined number of pixels to the right of the right edge of the printed matter 200, and the left edge of the scan area 4A is located a predetermined number of pixels to the left of the center of the width of the printed matter 200.

[0035] Therefore, the first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 arranged side by side can acquire image data of the entire width of the printed material 200. The central region of the printed material 200 is scanned by both the first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4.

[0036] Each of computers 1 and 2 is an image inspection device that inspects defects in an image of a printed material 200 output from a printer 6. The printed material 200 is a recording medium on which an image is formed by the printer 6. Computer 1 is communicatively connected to a first scanner 3 via a bus 511. Computer 2 is communicatively connected to a second scanner 4 via a bus 512. The buses 511 and 522 are, for example, camera links, but are not limited to this. Computer 1 inspects defects in the image by comparing the scanned image data scanned by the first scanner 3 from the left side of the printed material 200 with the correct image data. Computer 2 inspects defects in the image by comparing the scanned image data scanned by the second scanner 4 from the right side of the printed material 200 with the correct image data.

[0037] Furthermore, the computers 1 and 2 are communicatively connected to the computer 5 via buses 533 and 544, respectively, and are able to exchange predetermined information.

[0038] The computer 5 is configured to include a report generation unit 51 and an inspection result file generation unit 52, which will be described later. The computer 5 is equipped with the report generation unit 51, and thereby generates a report (report data) based on image data acquired from the computers 1 and 2. The computer 5 is equipped with the inspection result file generation unit 52, and thereby generates an inspection result file from the report (report data) created by the report generation unit 51.

[0039] In the generated inspection result file, the left side of the image formed on each sheet is placed on odd-numbered pages, and the right side of the image formed on each sheet is placed on even-numbered pages. This allows the user to view the inspection result file in a double-page spread, allowing them to easily check each printed item in its entirety.

[0040] <Hardware configuration> 2, the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment includes a first scanner 3 and a second scanner 4. The first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 use CCD (Charge Coupled Device) line sensors 131 and 241, respectively. In the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment, the hardware configuration of the computer 1 uses a frame grabber 1a, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 1b, a chipset 1c, an SSD (Solid State Drive) 1d, a processor 1e, and a DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) memory 1f.

[0041] The frame grabber 1a is a dedicated built-in board equipped with an image data input function, and acquires image data from a CCD line sensor 131 via a bus 511.

[0042] The GPU 1b is a processor that performs calculations necessary for image rendering, and is responsible for executing instructions related to image processing among the instructions executed by the processor 1e.

[0043] The chipset 1c is an IC chip that assists the processor 1e and controls data transmission between devices and equipment. The chipset 1c inputs the output from the frame grabber 1a to the processor 1e.

[0044] The SSD 1d is an auxiliary storage device that treats semiconductor memory like a disk drive, and stores predetermined programs (including an image inspection program) executed by the processor 1e.

[0045] The processor 1e is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes an instruction set written in a predetermined program, thereby enabling the processor 1e to realize each function according to the first embodiment. The processor 1e is the central processing unit of the computer 1, and by executing a control program, realizes functional units such as a first verification unit 13 and a first generation unit 14, which will be described later.

[0046] The DDR4 memory 1f is a semiconductor memory that can be read and written. The DDR4 memory 1f serves as a working area for the processor 1e.

[0047] In the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment, a frame grabber 2a, a GPU 2b, a chipset 2c, an SSD 2d, a processor 2e, and a DDR4 memory 2f are used as the hardware configuration of the computer 2. The frame grabber 2a, the GPU 2b, the chipset 2c, the SSD 2d, the processor 2e, and the DDR4 memory 2f are the same as the frame grabber 1a, the GPU 1b, the chipset 1c, the SSD 1d, the processor 1e, and the DDR4 memory 1f, respectively, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0048] The frame grabber 2a acquires image data from the CCD line sensor 241 via a bus 522. The processors 1e and 2e are connected to the computer 5 via buses 533 and 544, respectively. The processor 2e is the central processing unit of the computer 2, and by executing a control program, realizes functional units such as a second inspection unit 23, a second generation unit 24, a first mirror processing unit 25, a second mirror processing unit 26, and a third mirror processing unit 20, which will be described later.

[0049] The computer 5 is configured to include a processor 5a, a display unit 5b, a storage unit 5c, etc. The processor 5e is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes an instruction set written in a predetermined program, thereby enabling the processor 5e to realize each function according to the first embodiment. The processor 5e is the central processing unit of the computer 5, and by executing an image inspection program, realizes functional units such as a report generation unit 51 and an inspection result file generation unit 52, which will be described later.

[0050] Display unit 5b is configured with, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). Display unit 5b displays the test result file of the test performed by computers 1 and 2. Note that the test result file is not limited to be displayed on computer 5, but may be displayed on any computer and viewed by a predetermined user.

[0051] The storage unit 5c is a large-capacity storage device, and is configured, for example, by a hard disk drive, a nonvolatile memory, etc. The storage unit 120 stores, for example, an image inspection program, inspection images, reports, etc.

[0052] <Functional configuration> Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment. RIP (Raster Image Processor) image data 100 is stored in the printer 6 or in the control device of the printer 6. As shown in Fig. 3, the RIP image data 100 is image data in a bitmap format (image formation data used for image formation) that can be printed by the printer 6, and is, for example, a collection of pixels represented by CMYK values.

[0053] The image dividing unit 101 is included in, for example, the printer 6 or a control device (not shown) of the printer 6. The image dividing unit 101 divides the RIP image data 100 used for printing by the printer 6 into left RIP correct image data 11 and right RIP correct image data 21 at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. Then, the image dividing unit 101 sends the left RIP correct image data 11 to the computer 1 and sends the right RIP correct image data 21 to the computer 2.

[0054] The reading unit 30 reads an image formed on a printed material 200 (recording medium). The reading unit 30 of the first embodiment is configured with a first scanner 3 and a second scanner 4 that are arranged at different positions in the main scanning direction relative to the printed material 200.

[0055] The computer 1 of the first embodiment stores the left RIP correct image data 11 divided by the image dividing unit 101 and the left read image data 12 (first read image) acquired from the first scanner 3. The computer 1 also includes a first inspection unit 13 and a first generation unit 14.

[0056] The left RIP correct image data 11 is the left half of the RIP image data 100 used in image formation. The computer 1 receives the left RIP correct image data 11 divided by the image dividing unit 101 from the image dividing unit 101 and stores it.

[0057] The left-side scanned image data 12 (first scanned image) is obtained by scanning the left half of the printed matter 200 with the first scanner 3. The left-side scanned image data 12 includes one of the parts obtained by dividing the image formed on the printed matter 200 at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. Here, the predetermined position in the main scanning direction is any position where the scan area by the first scanner 3 and the scan area by the second scanner 4 overlap, for example, the center in the width direction of the print area of ​​the printed matter 200. This predetermined position in the main scanning direction is also the position where the position where the image divider 101 divided the RIP image data 100 used for printing by the printer 6 is projected onto the print area of ​​the printed matter 200.

[0058] The first inspection unit 13 inspects the left-scanned image data 12. Specifically, the first inspection unit 13 recognizes the left edge of the printed matter 200 on the left side of the left-scanned image data 12, and thus recognizes the image area of ​​the printed matter 200. The first inspection unit 13 then compares the image area of ​​the left-scanned image data 12 with the left-scanned RIP correct image data 11, and detects image defects in the left-scanned image data 12. For example, the first inspection unit 13 determines whether the difference between the C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) values ​​of a pixel at a predetermined position in the left-scanned image data 12 and the CMYK values ​​of a pixel at a corresponding position in the left-scanned RIP correct image data 11 is within a predetermined range.

[0059] If the difference in CMYK values ​​between a specified position in the left RIP correct image data 11 and a corresponding position in the left read image data 12 falls outside a specified range, the first inspection unit 13 determines that there is an image defect at the corresponding position in the left read image data 12.

[0060] Based on the inspection result of first inspection unit 13, first generation unit 14 generates first inspection image data (inspection image) regarding left-side scanned image data 12 (first scanned image).

[0061] On the other hand, the computer 2 of the first embodiment stores the right RIP correct image data 21 divided by the image dividing unit 101 and the right read image data 22 (second read image) acquired from the second scanner 4. The computer 2 also includes a second inspection unit 23, a second generation unit 24, a first mirror processing unit 25, a second mirror processing unit 26, and a third mirror processing unit 20.

[0062] The right RIP correct image data 21 is the right half of the RIP image data 100 used for image formation. The computer 2 receives the right RIP correct image data 21 divided by the image dividing unit 101 from the image dividing unit 101 and stores it.

[0063] The right read image data 22 (second read image) is obtained by scanning the right half of the printed matter 200 with the second scanner 4. The right read image data 22 includes the other half of the image formed on the printed matter 200, which is divided at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction.

[0064] The first mirror processing unit 25 of the computer 2 mirror-reflects the right scanned image data 22. The second mirror processing unit 26 of the computer 2 mirror-reflects the right RIP correct image data 21. This allows the detection process in the second inspection unit 23 to be the same as the detection process in the first inspection unit 13 of the computer 1.

[0065] The second inspection unit 23 inspects the right read image data 22. Specifically, the second inspection unit 23 recognizes the right edge of the printed matter 200 on the left side of the mirror-inverted right read image data 22, and thus recognizes the image area of ​​the printed matter 200. The second inspection unit 23 then compares the mirror-inverted right RIP correct image data 21 with the image area of ​​the mirror-inverted right read image data 22, and detects image defects in the mirror-inverted right read image data 22. For example, the second inspection unit 23 determines whether the difference between the CMYK values ​​of a pixel at a predetermined position in the mirror-inverted right read image data 22 and the CMYK values ​​of a pixel at a corresponding position in the mirror-inverted right RIP correct image data 21 is within a predetermined range.

[0066] If the difference in CMYK values ​​between a predetermined position in the right RIP correct image data 21 and a corresponding position in the right read image data 22 falls outside a predetermined range, the second inspection unit 23 determines that there is an image defect at the corresponding position in the right read image data 22.

[0067] The third mirror processor 20 then mirror-inverts the mirror-inverted second inspection image data to restore it to its original state, and changes the coordinates of the inspection data to the mirror-inverted position.

[0068] For example, if the right scanned image data 22 and the right RIP correct image data 21 are not mirror-inverted, the second inspection unit 23 must perform operations that are mirror-inverted relative to the operations of the first inspection unit 13, and separate detection programs must be created for each. In the first embodiment, the first mirror processing unit 25, the second mirror processing unit 26, and the third mirror processing unit 20 are provided, so the inspection program of the first inspection unit 13 and the inspection program of the second inspection unit 23 can be the same.

[0069] Although the first mirror processing unit 25, the second mirror processing unit 26, and the third mirror processing unit 20 are provided in the computer 2, they may also be provided in the computer 1. The first mirror processing unit 25, the second mirror processing unit 26, and the third mirror processing unit 20 are optional components, and the operation of the second inspection unit 23 may be a mirror image of the operation of the first inspection unit 13.

[0070] Based on the inspection result of second inspection unit 23, second generation unit 24 generates second inspection image data (inspection image) regarding right read image data 22 (second read image).

[0071] The first generation unit 14 of the computer 1 and the second generation unit 24 of the computer 2 may add information about the order of the first and second examination image data to the first and second examination image data, respectively. In this case, the first generation unit 14 of the computer 1 and the second generation unit 24 of the computer 2 add information about the order to the first and second examination image data, respectively, so that the first and second examination image data are consecutive. The report generation unit 51 arranges the first and second examination image data alternately in the report.

[0072] Furthermore, the first generator 14 of the computer 1 and the second generator 24 of the computer 2 may add information about the order to the first and second examination image data, respectively, so that the first and second examination image data are arranged alternately. In this case, the report generator 51 arranges the first and second examination image data in the report based on the order information added to the first and second examination image data.

[0073] The first generating unit 14 of the computer 1 and the second generating unit 24 of the computer 2 can transmit the first and second test image data they have generated one by one. In this case, the first generating unit 14 and the second generating unit 24 may transmit the first and second test image data alternately one by one. The report generating unit 51 arranges the first and second test image data in the report in the order in which they were received.

[0074] Furthermore, the first generator 14 of the computer 1 and the second generator 24 of the computer 2 may collectively transmit a plurality of first examination image data and a plurality of second examination image data, respectively.

[0075] Furthermore, the first generation unit 14 of the computer 1 and the second generation unit 24 of the computer 2 may add information about the reading unit 30 (the first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4) that read the left-scanned image data 12 or the right-scanned image data 22 to the first inspection image data and / or the second inspection image data. When either the left-scanned image data 12 or the right-scanned image data 22 includes an abnormality, the first generation unit 14 of the computer 1 and the second generation unit 24 of the computer 2 may generate image data of the other.

[0076] The first test image data and the second test image data may include test results for the left-scanned image data 12 and the right-scanned image data 22, respectively. The test results include, for example, noise information and level information.

[0077] On the other hand, the computer 5 of the first embodiment is configured to include the above-mentioned report generating unit 51 and inspection result file generating unit 52.

[0078] The report generating unit 51 generates a report (report data) by alternately allocating (arranging) the first test image data and the second test image data on a page-by-page basis.

[0079] The inspection result file generator 52 generates a file in a format such as PDF (Portable Document Format) from report data in which first and second inspection image data are alternately allocated on a page-by-page basis. In this case, for example, the first and second inspection image data constituting the report data are in JPEG format. The inspection result file generator 52 integrates multiple first inspection image data and multiple second inspection image data into one PDF in the order of their file names.

[0080] <Report function> FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the concept of a report with a result bookmark hierarchy. The images 300 and 320 shown in FIG. 4 are images obtained by scanning the printed matter 200 page by page.

[0081] Image 300 includes anomalies 301 and 302. Anomaly 301 indicates a black streak, and anomaly 302 indicates a stain. Image 320 also includes anomaly 323. Anomaly 323 indicates a white streak.

[0082] Inspection result data 310 is text data in which the coordinates of abnormal areas in image 300 are described. Here, coordinates 311 of abnormality 301 and coordinates 312 of abnormality 302 are described. Inspection result data 330 is text data in which the coordinates of abnormal areas in image 320 are described. Here, coordinates 333 of abnormality 323 are described.

[0083] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an examination result file including a result bookmark hierarchy. The inspection result file is composed of each inspection image shown in Figure 4 and a result bookmark layer superimposed on it. The result bookmark layer stores information such as the coordinates of abnormalities and the type of abnormality.

[0084] 5, the PDF viewer displays a heading and speech bubble indicating anomaly 301 at coordinates 311, superimposed on image 350, and a heading and speech bubble indicating anomaly 302 at coordinates 312. Similarly, the PDF viewer displays a heading and speech bubble indicating anomaly 323 at coordinates 333, superimposed on image 360.

[0085] In this case, the report generation unit 51 allocates the inspection image data in JPEG format to the inspection result data storing information such as the coordinates of the abnormalities and the type of abnormality, as shown in Fig. 5. The inspection result file generation unit 52 generates an inspection result file in, for example, PDF format, in which the coordinates of the abnormalities and the type of abnormality are allocated to the result bookmark layer and superimposed on the inspection image data in JPEG format. This allows a PDF viewer to display headings and speech bubbles corresponding to the coordinates of the abnormalities, superimposed on the inspection image. Note that the format of the inspection result file is not limited to PDF. Furthermore, the viewer is not limited to a PDF viewer.

[0086] <Comparative Example 1> Here, as a comparative example, a display example of an inspection result file in which conventional inspection images are combined will be described. Note that the same components are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0087] Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an inspection result file in which inspection images are combined. Fig. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an inspection result file in which only abnormal images in the scanned image are combined with inspection images. Figs. 6 and 7 show inspection result files in which inspection images are combined.

[0088] 6, image 351 includes an anomaly 301 indicating a black streak and an anomaly 302 indicating a stain. On the other hand, image 361 includes an anomaly 323 indicating a white streak. On the other hand, no anomaly is detected in image 371.

[0089] As shown in Fig. 7, images 351 and 361 are the same as those in Fig. 6. However, since no abnormality is detected in image 371 in Fig. 6, the inspection result file shown in Fig. 7 does not include image 371 in which no abnormality is detected.

[0090] <Comparative Example 2> 8A and 8B are diagrams showing an inspection result file in which the inspection image remains divided, and FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams showing an inspection result file in which only abnormal images in the scanned image remain divided.

[0091] 8A, image 353 contains anomaly 301, which indicates a black streak. No anomaly is detected in image 363. No anomaly is detected in image 373. Images 353, 363, and 373 are all the left half of a page, making it difficult to grasp the image quality of the entire page of printed material 200.

[0092] As shown in Figure 8B, image 354 contains anomaly 302, which indicates a stain. Meanwhile, image 364 contains anomaly 323, which indicates a white streak. Meanwhile, no anomaly is detected in image 374. Images 354, 364, and 374 are all the right half of a page, making it difficult to grasp the image quality of the entire page of printed material 200.

[0093] As shown in Figure 9A, image 353 is the same as that in Figure 8A. However, because no abnormalities were detected in images 363 and 373 in Figure 8A, the inspection result file shown in Figure 9A does not include images 363 and 373 in which no abnormalities were detected. Therefore, this inspection result file makes it impossible to grasp the image quality of the entire page of printed material 200, which is made up of images 363 and 364, and images 373 and 374.

[0094] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 9B, images 354 and 364 are the same as those in Fig. 8B. However, because no abnormality was detected in image 374 in Fig. 8B, image 374 is not included in the inspection result file shown in Fig. 9B. Therefore, it is not possible to grasp the image quality of the entire page of printed material 200, which is made up of images 373 and 374, from this inspection result file.

[0095] First Embodiment FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an inspection result file generated by the image inspection system 500. 10A, the first test image data and the second test image data are arranged alternately. Specifically, an image 381 of the first test image data including the left side of the page of the first printed matter 200 is arranged on the first page of the test result file. An image 382 of the second test image data including the right side of the page of the first printed matter 200 is arranged on the second page of the test result file.

[0096] An image 383 of the first inspection image data including the left side of the page of the second printed matter 200 is placed on the third page of the inspection result file. An image 384 of the second inspection image data including the right side of the page of the second printed matter 200 is placed on the fourth page of the inspection result file.

[0097] An image 385 of the first inspection image data including the left side of the page of the third printed matter 200 is placed on the fifth page of the inspection result file. An image 386 of the second inspection image data including the right side of the third page of the third printed matter 200 is placed on the sixth page of the inspection result file.

[0098] Returning to Figure 3, the explanation continues. The first generation unit 14 adds information so that images 381, 383, and 385 are positioned on the left side of the inspection image. For example, the first generation unit 14 assigns odd numbers starting from 1 to the file names and data names on the left side of each page of the printed material 200.

[0099] Meanwhile, the second generation unit 24 of the computer 2 adds information about the order to the images 382, ​​384, and 386, which are the second test image data, so that the first test image data and the second test image data alternate and continue. Specifically, the second generation unit 24 adds information so that the images 382, ​​384, and 386 are positioned to the right of the test images. For example, the second generation unit 24 assigns even numbers starting with 2 to the file names and data names on the right side of each page of the printed material 200.

[0100] As a result, the report generation unit 51 generates a report in which the left side of the image formed on each sheet is placed on odd-numbered pages and the right side of the image formed on each sheet is placed on even-numbered pages.The inspection result file generation unit 52 then generates an inspection result file from this report.As a result, the inspection result file is displayed in a PDF viewer so that each page of the first inspection image data and each page of the second inspection image data are alternately displayed in succession.

[0101] 10A, image 381 includes an abnormality 301 indicating a black streak, and image 382 includes an abnormality 302 indicating a stain.

[0102] Additionally, no anomalies are detected in image 383. Additionally, image 384 includes an anomaly 323 that indicates a white streak.

[0103] Furthermore, no abnormalities were detected in images 385 and 386.

[0104] Returning to Figure 3, the explanation will be continued. The report generation unit 51 of the computer 5 acquires the first test image data and the second test image data, and generates a report (report data) in which the first test image data and the second test image data are alternately allocated (arranged). The test result file generation unit 52 generates a test result file in, for example, a PDF format from this report data. For example, when viewing the test result file, a user uses the double-page display function of a PDF viewer.

[0105] FIG. 10B is a diagram showing an example of viewing the test result file in a double-page spread. The PDF viewer displays the test result file shown in Fig. 10A in a double-page spread. That is, the PDF viewer displays the first and second pages of the test result file in a double-page spread, thereby displaying an image 381 of the first test image data including the left side of the first printed matter 200 page and an image 382 of the second test image data including the right side of the first printed matter 200 page in a double-page spread.

[0106] In this case, image 381 belonging to the first test image data is located on the first page of the test result file and is therefore displayed on the left side of the PDF viewer's double-page spread, while image 382 belonging to the second test image data is located on the second page of the test result file and is therefore displayed on the right side of the PDF viewer's double-page spread.

[0107] The PDF viewer displays the third and fourth pages of the test result file in a double-page spread, thereby displaying an image 383 of the first test image data including the left side of the page of the second printed matter 200 and an image 384 of the second test image data including the right side of the page of the second printed matter 200 in a double-page spread.

[0108] In this case, image 383 belonging to the first test image data is located on the third page of the test result file, and is therefore displayed on the left side of the PDF viewer's double-page spread. On the other hand, image 384 belonging to the second test image data is located on the fourth page of the test result file, and is therefore displayed on the right side of the PDF viewer's double-page spread.

[0109] The PDF viewer then displays pages 5 and 6 of the test result file in a double-page spread, thereby displaying image 385 of the first test image data including the left side of the page of the third printed matter 200 and image 386 of the second test image data including the right side of the page of the third printed matter 200 in a double-page spread.

[0110] In this case, image 385 belonging to the first test image data is located on page 5 of the test result file, and is therefore displayed on the left side of the PDF viewer's double-page spread. On the other hand, image 386 belonging to the second test image data is located on page 6 of the test result file, and is therefore displayed on the right side of the PDF viewer's double-page spread.

[0111] In this way, the report generating unit 51 can generate the first test image data and the second test image data in units of one page each and arrange them alternately.

[0112] The first and second test image data may include test results for the left read image data 12 (first read image) and the right read image data 22 (second read image), respectively. The test results include, for example, noise information and level information.

[0113] The first generator 14 and the second generator 24 may also add information about the reading unit that read the left-scanned image data 12 or the right-scanned image data 22 to the first test image data and / or the second test image data. For example, the first generator 14 adds information about the first scanner 3 of the reading unit 30 to the first test image data. The second generator 24 adds information about the second scanner 4 of the reading unit 30 to the second test image data.

[0114] In this way, the report generation unit 51 of the computer 5 generates a report in which the left and right sides of the images formed on each sheet are alternately allocated. The inspection result file generated based on this report can be viewed in its entirety as the original printed matter using the double-page spread display function of a PDF viewer (viewing application).

[0115] This allows the image inspection system 500 to realize viewing that is substantially equivalent to generating a report after combining the left and right inspection images. In other words, the image inspection system 500 can allocate each image so that the user can conveniently view the inspection image and inspection result report on the same sheet of paper.

[0116] As described above, the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment is configured to include a first scanner 3, a second scanner 4, a first inspection unit 13, a second inspection unit 23, a first generation unit 14, and a second generation unit 24.

[0117] The first scanner 3 and the second scanner 4 each read an image formed on the printed matter 200. That is, the first scanner 3 reads left-side read image data 12 including one side of the image of the printed matter 200 divided at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. The second scanner 4 reads right-side read image data 22 including the other side of the image of the printed matter 200 divided at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction.

[0118] The first inspection unit 13 inspects left-scanned image data 12, which includes one of the halves obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. The second inspection unit 23 inspects right-scanned image data 22, which includes the other of the halves obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. The first generation unit 14 generates first inspection image data (inspection image) for the left-scanned image data 12 based on the inspection result of the first inspection unit 13. The second generation unit 24 generates second inspection image data (inspection image) for the right-scanned image data 22 based on the inspection result of the second inspection unit 23.

[0119] As a result, the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment can suitably generate image inspection results when a scanned image is divided in the paper width direction, and can also solve problems related to generating image inspection results when a scanned image is divided in the paper width direction. Problems related to generating image inspection results when a scanned image is divided in the paper width direction include, for example, checking the generated image inspection results on a page-by-page basis and creating a report of the image inspection results without degrading inspection performance.

[0120] The first generator 14 of the computer 1 and the second generator 24 of the computer 2 can add information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively.

[0121] In this case, the first generation unit 14 of computer 1 and the second generation unit 24 of computer 2 can add information regarding the order to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively, so that the first test image data and the second test image data are consecutive.

[0122] Furthermore, the first generation unit 14 of computer 1 and the second generation unit 24 of computer 2 may add information regarding the order to the first test image data and the second test image data, respectively, so that the first test image data and the second test image data alternate in succession.

[0123] Alternatively, the first generating unit 14 and the second generating unit 24 may transmit the first test image data and the second test image data that they have generated one by one. In this case, the first generating unit 14 and the second generating unit 24 may alternately transmit the first test image data and the second test image data one by one.

[0124] The first generating unit 14 and the second generating unit 24 may transmit a plurality of first test image data sets and a plurality of second test image data sets, respectively, collectively.

[0125] Furthermore, when either the first scanned image or the second scanned image contains an abnormality, the first generating unit 14 and the second generating unit 24 can generate the first test image data and the second test image data, which allows the first test image data and the second test image data to be always arranged in a double-page spread in the PDF viewer.

[0126] As described above, a report is composed of an inspection image and inspection results including image defect locations and defect types. When a report is created based on the results of analyzing an inspection image divided into left and right halves, separate reports are generated for the left and right inspection images. In this case, although the original inspection images were obtained by analyzing images on the same sheet of paper, the user will view a report in which the image on the same sheet of paper is divided into left and right halves. This means that it is difficult for the user to view the entire sheet of paper.

[0127] To make it easier for users to view the entire page, it is possible to combine the two scanned images from the left and right sides of the same page before inspecting them. However, this would increase the area of ​​the image to be analyzed, requiring a faster image processing unit.

[0128] In addition, to make it easier for users to view the entire form, it is possible to create a report by combining the two inspection images on the left and right sides. However, creating a report during an inspection can degrade inspection performance. As a result, a separate image processor or a faster image processor is required.

[0129] Therefore, the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment divides the images formed on each sheet into two and allocates each image so that the report of the inspection results can be viewed conveniently by the user. That is, the image inspection system 500 arranges the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in the report so that they are displayed as a double-page spread in a PDF viewer.

[0130] As a result, when the image formed on the printed matter 200 is divided into two parts for inspection, the image inspection system 500 of the first embodiment allows the user to conveniently view the inspection image and inspection result report on the same sheet of paper.

[0131] <Second embodiment> The report generating unit 51 of the computer 5 in the second embodiment does not include in the report any inspection image that has no abnormalities in the left-scanned image data 12 and the right-scanned image data 22. This reduces the number of pages and the data size of the inspection result file.

[0132] The report generation unit 51 of the second embodiment differs from the report generation unit 51 of the first embodiment in that the two images 385 and 386 that are normal, as shown in Figures 10A and 10B of the first embodiment, are not included in the report.

[0133] Fig. 11A is a diagram showing an inspection result file generated by the image inspection system 500. The inspection result file of Fig. 11A includes images 381 to 384, just like the inspection result file of Fig. 10A, but does not include images 385 and 386, which constitute the page of the third printed matter 200 that is free of abnormalities. Also, image 383 has no abnormalities, but the second printed matter 200 has an abnormality 323. Therefore, in order to show the entire page of the second printed matter 200 in a double-page spread, the inspection result file includes images 383 and 384.

[0134] 11B is a diagram showing an example of viewing the inspection result file of FIG. 11A in a double-page spread. The PDF viewer displays the inspection result file shown in FIG. 11A in a double-page spread. By displaying the first and second pages of the inspection result file in a double-page spread, the PDF viewer displays an image 381 of the first inspection image data including the left side of the page of the first printed matter 200 and an image 382 of the second inspection image data including the right side of the page of the first printed matter 200 in a double-page spread. This allows the user to grasp the condition of the entire page of the first printed matter 200 and to recognize the presence of abnormalities 301 and 302.

[0135] Furthermore, the PDF viewer displays the third and fourth pages of the inspection result file in a double-page spread, thereby displaying an image 383 of the first inspection image data including the left side of the page of the second printed matter 200 and an image 384 of the second inspection image data including the right side of the page of the second printed matter 200. This allows the user to grasp the condition of the entire page of the second printed matter 200 and to recognize that an abnormality 323 exists.

[0136] The inspection result file does not include the two images 385 and 386 that are free of abnormalities. This allows the file size of the inspection result file to be reduced by excluding inspection image data of the printed matter 200 that is free of abnormalities from the inspection result file. Furthermore, if there are no abnormalities in either the inspection image on the left or the inspection image on the right of the printed matter 200, the inspection image data of this printed matter 200 is excluded from the inspection result file. This allows the user to associate a combination of odd-numbered and even-numbered pages in the inspection result file with one of the printed matters 200 and view it in a double-page spread.

[0137] <Third embodiment> The inspection result file of the third embodiment shown in Fig. 12A is obtained by combining the inspection result file of the first embodiment shown in Fig. 10A with inspection result data (text data describing the coordinates of abnormalities) corresponding to images 381 to 386. This allows the result bookmark hierarchy of the inspection result file to include coordinates 311 of abnormality 301, coordinates 312 of abnormality 302, and coordinates 333 of abnormality 323.

[0138] By combining the test result data with the test result file's result bookmark hierarchy, the PDF viewer can display headings and bubbles that indicate anomalies.

[0139] 12B is a diagram showing an example of viewing the inspection result file of FIG. 12A in a double-page spread, which allows the user to grasp the state of the entire page of the printed material 200, understand that an abnormality exists, and understand the details of the abnormality from the headings and speech bubbles.

[0140] <Fourth embodiment> The inspection result file of the fourth embodiment shown in Fig. 13A is obtained by combining the inspection result file of the second embodiment shown in Fig. 11A with inspection result data (text data describing the coordinates of abnormalities) corresponding to images 381 to 384. This allows the result bookmark hierarchy of the inspection result file to include coordinates 311 of abnormality 301, coordinates 312 of abnormality 302, and coordinates 333 of abnormality 323.

[0141] By combining the test result data with the test result file's result bookmark hierarchy, the PDF viewer can display headings and bubbles that indicate anomalies.

[0142] 13B is a diagram showing an example of viewing the inspection result file of FIG. 13A in a double-page spread. This allows the user to grasp the condition of the entire page of the printed material 200, understand that an abnormality exists, and understand the details of the abnormality from the heading and speech bubble. Furthermore, by excluding the left and right inspection images of the third printed material 200, which is normal, the number of pages and file size of the inspection result file can be reduced.

[0143] <Fifth embodiment> Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an image inspection system 501 according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 14, the reading unit 31 of the image inspection system 501 is configured to include a scanner 7 and an image dividing unit 102, instead of the first scanner 3 and second scanner 4 of the image inspection system 500 shown in the first embodiment.

[0144] The scanner 7 reads the image formed on the printed matter 200. The scanner 7 is assumed to have a length in the main scanning direction longer than the width of the printed matter 200, for example, and to be able to read the image in one go.

[0145] The image dividing unit 102 divides the image read by the scanner 7 into left read image data 12 (first read image) and right read image data 22 (second read image) at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction.

[0146] This allows the image division unit 102 to divide the image even when the image is read by one scanner 7, so that the first inspection unit 13 and the second inspection unit 23 can inspect the left read image data 12 and the right read image data 22 in parallel, respectively.

[0147] Therefore, the image inspection system 501 of the fifth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the image inspection systems 500 shown in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0148] Sixth Embodiment Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an image inspection system 502 according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 15, the image inspection system 502 includes a first inspection unit 13 having a third inspection unit 17 and a fifth inspection unit 18, and a second inspection unit 23 having a fourth inspection unit 27 and a sixth inspection unit 28.

[0149] The third inspection unit 17 and the fifth inspection unit 18 are assigned inspection units that perform analysis depending on, for example, the inspection items. Each of the third inspection unit 17 and the fifth inspection unit 18 can generate inspection images and inspection result data (text data containing the coordinates of abnormal areas) in parallel.

[0150] On the other hand, the fourth inspection unit 27 and the sixth inspection unit 28 are assigned inspection units to perform analysis according to, for example, the inspection items, similar to the third inspection unit 17 and the fifth inspection unit 18. Each of the fourth inspection unit 27 and the sixth inspection unit 28 can generate inspection images and inspection result data (text data containing the coordinates of abnormal areas) in parallel.

[0151] As a result, the image inspection system 502 of the sixth embodiment can further improve inspection performance, and image inspection can be performed even with a slower computer. Furthermore, the image inspection system 502 of the sixth embodiment may be configured such that the first inspection unit 13 in the image inspection system 501 of the fifth embodiment is provided with a plurality of inspection units, and the second inspection unit 23 is provided with a plurality of inspection units. [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 1,2 Computer 1e, 2e processors 3 First scanner 4 Secondary Scanner 5. Computer 6 Printers 7. Scanner 11 Left RIP correct image data 12 Left-hand scanned image data 13 First Inspection Department 14 1st generation part 17 Third Inspection Department 18 5th Inspection Department 20 Third mirror processing section 21 Right RIP correct image data 22 Right-hand scanned image data 23 Second Inspection Department 24 Second generation part 25 First mirror processing section 26 Second mirror processing section 27 Fourth Inspection Department 28 6th Inspection Department 30,31 Reading unit 51 Report Generation Unit 52 Inspection result file generation unit 100 RIP image data 200 printed matter 511 Bus 522 Bus

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively; transmitting the generated first inspection image data and the generated second inspection image data one by one; Image inspection equipment.

2. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively; transmitting a plurality of the first test image data and a plurality of the second test image data together; Image inspection equipment.

3. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on the inspection result of the second inspection unit; a report generating unit that generates a report in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately arranged on a page-by-page basis; The image inspection device further comprises:

4. The first test image data and the second test image data are The first read image and the second read image are displayed in a double-page spread by a viewer in accordance with the arrangement of the first read image and the second read image. The image inspection device according to claim 3.

5. The report generation unit the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are generated in units of one page and alternately allocated; 5. The image inspection device according to claim 3 or 4.

6. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are each including an inspection result for the first scanned image and the second scanned image; Image inspection equipment.

7. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit generating the first read image or the second read image when the other one contains an abnormality; Image inspection equipment.

8. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the acquisition unit that acquired the first read image or the second read image to the first inspection image data and / or the second inspection image data; Image inspection equipment.

9. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, One of the first inspection unit and the second inspection unit a first mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the first read image or the second read image; a second mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the correct image data corresponding to the inverted first read image or the inverted second read image; a third mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the inspection result of the second inspection unit; Further provided with The first inspection unit and the second inspection unit comparing the first read image and the second read image with correct image data to inspect them; Image inspection equipment.

10. The acquisition unit a first reading unit and a second reading unit disposed at different positions in a main scanning direction relative to the recording medium; The image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising:

11. the acquisition unit includes an image division unit that divides the image read from the recording medium into the first read image and the second read image at a predetermined position in a main scanning direction; The image inspection device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

12. The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively; 12. An image inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data so that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are consecutive; The image inspection device according to claim 12.

14. The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data so that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately consecutive; The image inspection device according to claim 13.

15. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively; transmitting the generated first inspection image data and the generated second inspection image data one by one; Image inspection system.

16. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively; transmitting a plurality of the first test image data and a plurality of the second test image data together; Image inspection system.

17. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on the inspection result of the second inspection unit; a report generating unit that generates a report in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately arranged on a page-by-page basis; The image inspection system further comprises:

18. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are each including an inspection result for the first scanned image and the second scanned image; Image inspection system.

19. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit generating the first read image or the second read image when the other one contains an abnormality; Image inspection system.

20. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, The first generation unit and the second generation unit adding information about the acquisition unit that acquired the first read image or the second read image to the first inspection image data and / or the second inspection image data; Image inspection system.

21. An acquisition unit that acquires a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a first inspection unit that inspects a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a second inspection unit that inspects a second read image including the other of the divided read images; a first generation unit that generates first test image data regarding the first scanned image based on the test result of the first test unit; a second generation unit that generates second inspection image data regarding the second scanned image based on an inspection result of the second inspection unit, One of the first inspection unit and the second inspection unit a first mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the first read image or the second read image; a second mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the correct image data corresponding to the inverted first read image or the inverted second read image; a third mirror processing unit that mirror-inverts the inspection result of the second inspection unit; Further provided with The first inspection unit and the second inspection unit comparing the first read image and the second read image with correct image data to inspect them; Image inspection system.

22. A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, adding information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively; transmitting the generated first inspection image data and the generated second inspection image data one by one; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above.

23. A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, adding information about the order of the first and second test image data to the first and second test image data, respectively; a step of transmitting a plurality of the first test image data and a plurality of the second test image data together; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above.

24. A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, a step of generating a report in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately arranged on a page-by-page basis; An image inspection program that causes a computer to execute the above.

25. A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, The first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are each including an inspection result for the first scanned image and the second scanned image; Image inspection program.

26. A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, a step of generating the other of the first read image and the second read image when either one of the first read image and the second read image contains an abnormality; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above.

27. ​​A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, adding information relating to acquisition of the first read image or the second read image to the first inspection image data and / or the second inspection image data; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above.

28. A procedure for obtaining a read image by reading a recording medium on which an image is formed; a step of inspecting a first read image including one of the read images obtained by dividing the read image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction; a step of inspecting a second read image including the other of the read images divided; generating first inspection image data relating to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first read image; an image inspection program for causing a computer to execute a procedure of generating second inspection image data for the second read image based on an inspection result of the second read image, a step of mirror-inverting the first read image or the second read image; a step of mirror-inverting the correct image data corresponding to the inverted first read image or the inverted second read image; a step of mirror-inverting the inspection result of the second read image; Further provided with a step of comparing the first read image and the second read image with correct image data to inspect the first read image and the second read image; An image inspection program that allows a computer to execute the above.

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