Inspection equipment, inspection methods, printing systems, inspection systems

Abstract

To provide an inspection device that, when an operator sets an inspection area, can set the inspection area after grasping the number of inspection areas capable of completing the inspection of a printing sheet within a limited time.SOLUTION: An inspection device includes: display control means configured to display information on a display unit; setting means (S405) configured to set one or a plurality of areas including an object to be inspected; and inspection means configured to inspect data read from the object included in the area set by the setting means. The display control means displays a graph capable of recognizing an upper limit that can be inspected by the inspection device, and when the one or the plurality of areas are set by the setting means, displays a value based on an amount of data of the object included in the set area on a graph (1219).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12-1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus, a printing system, an inspection system, and an inspection method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inspection (product inspection) to confirm whether a printed matter is correctly printed has been performed manually. In recent years, an apparatus that automatically performs inspection as a post-processing of a printing machine has been used. In such an inspection apparatus (product inspection apparatus), an inspection is performed to detect a defect in a pattern portion of a printed matter, which is called a printed image inspection (pattern inspection). Further, in variable printing in which the content printed on a sheet can be changed based on data, data inspection is also performed on variable area portions such as character strings and barcodes, in addition to the printed image inspection.

[0003] In pattern inspection and data inspection, first, a user sets an area to be inspected. Then, pattern inspection and data inspection are performed on the set area while the printed sheet is being conveyed. When it is determined that the printed sheet is a defective sheet, the defective sheet can be discharged to a different discharge destination from the normal sheet.

[0004] In a printing system that automatically performs inspection as a post-processing of a printing machine, in order to perform control to switch the discharge destinations of normal sheets and defective sheets, it is necessary to complete the inspection of each printed sheet while the printed sheet is being conveyed and passing through the inspection apparatus. That is, there is a limited time for performing inspection for each printed sheet. In a printing system that automatically performs inspection, if many areas to be inspected are set, the time required for the inspection process increases, and there is a problem that the inspection of the printed sheet cannot be completed within the limited time. Patent Document 1 proposes a method of calculating the priority of an inspection target based on the printed object information (object type, color, size) of the inspection target, and performing inspection as much as possible within a predetermined limited time according to the priority.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-003335 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 had a problem in that it was unclear whether the operator was setting the inspection area within a range that would allow the inspection to be completed within the time limit.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and one object of this embodiment is to provide an inspection device that allows an operator to set inspection areas after knowing the number of inspection areas that can be completed within a time limit for inspecting printed sheets. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The inspection apparatus of the present invention, An inspection device, A display control means for displaying information on a display unit; a setting means for setting one or more areas including an object to be inspected; an inspection means for inspecting data read from an object included in the area set by the setting means; and the display control means capable of recognizing the upper limit of what can be inspected by the inspection device. to Display and the setting means in One or more regions of setting Based on this, the amount set for the upper limit It is characterized by displaying information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, when an operator sets an inspection area, they can determine the number of inspection areas in which they can complete the inspection of the printed sheet within the time limit, and then set the inspection areas they wish to inspect. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1]An example of a diagram showing an example of a system configuration including the inspection apparatus of the present embodiment [Figure 2] An example of an internal configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 in the present embodiment [Figure 3] An example of an internal configuration diagram of the inspection apparatus 110 in the present embodiment [Figure 4] An example of a flowchart of the entire inspection process in the present embodiment [Figure 5] An example of an example of a UI screen for job management in the present embodiment [Figure 6] An example of an example of a UI screen for a font list in the present embodiment [Figure 7] An example of an example of a UI screen for font registration job settings in the present embodiment [Figure 8] An example of an example of a UI screen for font registration image loading in the present embodiment [Figure 9] An example of an example of a UI screen for font registration in the present embodiment [Figure 10] An example of an example of a UI screen for reference image registration job settings in the present embodiment [Figure 11] An example of an example of a UI screen for reference image registration in the present embodiment [Figure 12-1] (a) and (b) are an example of an example of a UI screen for inspection settings in the present embodiment [Figure 12-2] (c) and (d) are an example of an example of a UI screen for inspection settings in the present embodiment [Figure 13] An example of an example of a UI screen for inspection job settings in the present embodiment [Figure 14] An example of an example of a UI screen for inspection in the present embodiment [Figure 15] An example of a warning message screen in the present embodiment [Figure 16] An example of a flowchart of inspection settings for step S405 in the present embodiment [Figure 17] An example of the number of setable areas in the present embodiment [Figure 18] An example of the number of specification areas in the present embodiment [Figure 19]An example of the flowchart of step S1605 in Embodiment 2 [Figure 20] An example of the flowchart of the entire inspection process in Embodiment 3 [Figure 21] An example of a warning message screen in Embodiment 3

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Each embodiment of this example will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims, and not all combinations of the features described in each embodiment are essential for the solution means of this example.

[0012] In the following description, an image forming apparatus may also be referred to as a multifunction printer, a multi-function peripheral, or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral).

[0013] First, the technical premise of this embodiment will be described. In the inspection apparatus of this example, first, correct image (reference image) data is registered. Next, the input image data is printed and output onto paper by the image forming apparatus. Subsequently, the printed matter printed and output onto the paper is read by an inspection sensor configured inside the inspection apparatus. Defects of the printed matter are detected by comparing the image data read by the inspection sensor with the correct image data registered first. The inspection for detecting defects in the pattern portion of the printed matter is called a printed image inspection (pattern inspection).

[0014] In addition to print image inspection, variable data printing also involves inspecting variable areas such as text strings and barcodes. Examples include data readability inspection, which checks whether text strings and barcodes are legible, and data verification inspection, which compares the read results of text strings and barcodes with correct data. These data readability inspections and data verification inspections are collectively referred to as data inspections. Variable data printing refers to printing that allows the content printed on the paper to be changed based on data. The correct data is prepared in advance, for example, by specifying a CSV file.

[0015] By performing image and data checks while the printed sheets are being transported, if a printed sheet is determined to be defective, it can be discharged to a different destination than the normal sheets. This prevents defective sheets from being mixed in with normal sheets and allows the operator to discard the defective sheets.

[0016] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 shows a system configuration including an inspection device related to an embodiment. 100 represents an image forming apparatus, 110 represents an inspection device, 120 represents a finisher, 130 represents a client PC, 140 represents a print server, and 150 represents a network.

[0017] The image forming apparatus 100 performs print output based on various input data, such as print data sent from a client PC 130 or a print server 140.

[0018] The inspection device 110 receives the printed material output from the image forming apparatus 100 and inspects the received printed material for defects. A defect here refers to anything that degrades the quality of the printed material, such as stains caused by colorants adhering to unintended areas during printing, or color fading caused by insufficient colorants adhering to intended areas.

[0019] Furthermore, the inspection device 110 performs inspection of variable areas such as text strings and barcodes in variable printing. Examples include data readability inspection, which checks whether text strings or barcodes are readable, and data verification inspection, which compares the reading results of text strings or barcodes with the correct answer. In other words, as described above, the inspection device 110 performs print image inspection and data inspection.

[0020] The finisher 120 receives the output paper inspected by the inspection device 110, switches the output destination based on the inspection results of the inspection device 110, performs post-processing (such as binding) as necessary, and then outputs the paper.

[0021] The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to client PCs 130 and print servers 140 via a network 150, and to inspection devices 110 and finishers 120 via communication cables. The inspection device 110 is connected to the finisher 120 via a communication cable, in addition to the image forming apparatus 100. This embodiment shows an inline inspection machine that performs image forming, inspection, post-processing, and paper output in an integrated manner. In this embodiment, at least the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection device 110 are collectively referred to as the printing system.

[0022] [Configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus] Figure 2 shows the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 in this embodiment.

[0023] The controller 200 receives images and documents from the network 150 and converts the received images and documents into print data. The printer unit 210 prints the print data onto a recording sheet (paper, sheet). The UI unit 220 receives instructions from the operator for the image forming apparatus 100. The image forming apparatus 100 consists of the controller 200, printer unit 210, and UI unit 220 described above.

[0024] The following components 201-208 are part of the controller 200. The network interface unit 201 transmits and receives data with the network 150. The CPU 202 controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The RAM 203 is the work area where the CPU 202 executes various instructions. The ROM 204 is a ROM that stores program data executed by the CPU 202 at startup, controller 200 configuration data, etc.

[0025] The image processing unit 205 performs RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing to convert image and document data received from the network 150 into print data.

[0026] The engine interface unit 206 transmits print data to the printer unit 210.

[0027] The communication interface unit 207 communicates with the inspection device 110 and the finisher 120. The system bus 208 is an internal bus.

[0028] Images and documents created on client PCs 130 or print servers 140 on network 150 are transmitted as PDL data to the image forming apparatus 100 via the network (e.g., Local Area Network). The transmitted PDL data is stored in RAM 203 via network I / F unit 201. Print instructions from the operator of UI unit 220 are also stored in RAM 203 via internal bus 208. Print instructions from the operator include, for example, the selection of paper type.

[0029] The image processing unit 205 acquires the PDL data stored in the RAM 203 and performs image processing to convert it into print data. Image processing to convert to print data includes, for example, rasterizing the PDL data to convert it into multi-level bitmap data, and then performing screen processing to convert it into binary bitmap data. The binary bitmap data obtained by the image processing unit 205 is transmitted to the printer unit 210 via the engine I / F unit 206.

[0030] The printer unit 210 prints the received binary bitmap data onto a recording sheet using colorants. The CPU 202 issues instructions to the printer unit 210 based on the operator's print instructions stored in the RAM 203. For example, if the operator instructs to print on coated paper, the CPU 202 instructs the printer unit 210 to output paper from a paper cassette (not shown) in the image forming apparatus 100 where coated paper is stored. The various processes from the reception of the PDL data to printing on the paper are controlled by the CPU 202, so that a full-color toner image is formed on the paper.

[0031] [Internal configuration of inspection device 110] Figure 3 shows the internal configuration of the inspection device 110. The inspection control unit 300 controls the entire inspection device 110, inspects whether or not there are defects in the printed material, and inspects variable areas such as text strings and barcodes. Here, the variable area refers to the area where different images are printed on each page.

[0032] The image reading unit 310 reads the printed material transported from the image forming apparatus 100. The image reading unit 310 generates a scanned image by performing a scan on the transported printed material. The UI unit 320 receives instructions from the operator regarding settings for the inspection device 110 and displays inspection results, etc. The settings for the inspection device 110 performed by the operator refer to the items to be inspected for defects when inspecting printed materials. Inspection items include, for example, round defects (dots), linear defects (streaks), and correctness judgment of variable area parts such as strings of characters or barcodes. The inspection device 110 is composed of the inspection control unit 300, the image reading unit 310, and the UI unit 320 described above. In this embodiment, the UI unit 320 is referred to as the display unit. The screen displayed on the UI unit 320 is controlled by the CPU 302 as a display control means.

[0033] The components 301-306 described below are parts of the inspection control unit 300. The communication interface unit 301 communicates data with the image forming apparatus 100 and the finisher 120. The CPU 302 controls the entire inspection apparatus 110. The RAM 303 is the work area where the CPU 302 executes various instructions. The ROM 304 stores program data executed by the CPU 302 at startup, as well as setting data for the inspection control unit 300. The inspection processing unit 305 checks whether or not there are defects in the printed material. The system bus 306 is an internal bus.

[0034] Next, we will explain the overview of the print image inspection performed by the inspection device 110.

[0035] The inspection device 110 reads the printed material transported from the image forming apparatus 100 using the image reading unit 310 and acquires a scanned image of the object to be inspected. The acquired scanned image of the object to be inspected is stored in the RAM 303.

[0036] Next, the inspection device 110 calculates a difference value between the reference image, which is previously stored in RAM 303 as a correct image, and the scanned image of the object to be inspected, using the inspection processing unit 305.

[0037] Next, the inspection device 110 performs the inspection by comparing the calculated difference value with the inspection threshold (contrast and size) of each inspection item for each pixel. The results of the inspection are stored in the RAM 303, and include information such as whether or not there are defects in the printed material, the type of defect detected (dots or streaks), and the location information of the defects to be displayed on the UI unit 320.

[0038] Next, we will explain the overview of the data inspection performed by the inspection device 110.

[0039] The inspection device 110 reads the printed material transported from the image forming apparatus 100 using the image reading unit 310 and acquires a scanned image of the material to be inspected. The acquired scanned image of the material to be inspected is stored in the RAM 303. Next, the inspection device 110 uses the inspection processing unit 305 to check whether the strings and barcodes are readable using pre-set font information for optical character recognition (OCR) and barcode standards. It is also possible to perform data matching checks to verify that the results of the read strings and barcodes match the correct data. The results of the inspection are stored in the RAM 303 and include, for example, the results of the strings and barcodes read from the printed material, the results of the comparison with the correct data, and the position information of the read characters and barcodes when displayed on the UI unit 320. The correct data may be stored in advance in the RAM 203 of the inspection device 110, or it may be acquired each time via the network 150 and temporarily stored in the RAM 203.

[0040] Next, the inspection device 110 instructs the UI unit 320 via the CPU 302 to display the inspection results stored in the RAM 303. The operator recognizes the inspection results when they are displayed on the UI unit 320.

[0041] Furthermore, if a certain number of defective printed materials are produced consecutively, the inspection device 110 transmits the above information to the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication interface unit 301 using the CPU 302.

[0042] Information that defective printed materials are continuously generated is received by the controller 200 via the communication I / F unit 207. When the controller 200 receives the above information, the CPU 202 instructs the printer unit 210 to stop printing. When the image forming apparatus 100 is instructed to stop printing at the printer unit 210, the printing operation is stopped.

[0043] Furthermore, the inspection apparatus 110 also transmits information to the finisher 120 via the communication I / F unit 301 based on the inspection results stored in the RAM 303 by the CPU 302. The information transmitted to the finisher 120 is information on whether or not there is a defect in the printed material. The finisher 120 uses the received information to discharge non-defective printed materials to the normal paper discharge tray and defective printed materials to a tray different from the normal paper discharge tray.

[0044] <UI screen> FIGS. 5 to 14 are examples of screens displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection apparatus 110 and are displayed based on the instructions of the CPU 302 of the inspection apparatus 110.

[0045] The inspection process in the printing system in this embodiment is roughly divided into four steps. The first is the font registration step, which is a step of registering font information for performing character inspection. The second is the reference image registration step, which is a step of registering a correct image for comparison with the inspection image. The third is the inspection setting step, which is a step of setting the area to be inspected, the inspection level, etc. The fourth is the inspection step, which is a step of performing an inspection on the inspection job according to the registered reference image and the content of the inspection settings. The inspection in this embodiment is performed in the order of font registration, reference image registration, inspection setting, and inspection. Font registration will be described using FIGS. 6 to 9, reference image registration will be described using FIGS. 10 and 11, inspection setting will be described using FIG. 12, and inspection will be described using FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0046] FIG. 5 is an example of a job management screen 500 displayed on the UI unit 320.

[0047] The job management screen 500 is displayed when the inspection device 110 is started. Alternatively, it is displayed when the application is launched by an operator via the UI unit 320. From the job management screen 500, it is possible to transition to each process: font registration, reference image registration, inspection settings, and inspection. Button 501 is used to dismiss the display of screen 500.

[0048] Button 502 is used to create a new inspection job, and it transitions to the reference image registration job settings screen 1000 shown in Figure 10. Button 503 is used to duplicate an already created inspection job. It duplicates the inspection job selected in the inspection job list 508. By duplicating, the reference image and inspection settings are duplicated, and a new inspection can be performed. Button 504 is a delete button, and it deletes the inspection job selected in the inspection job list 508. Here, it is also possible to select multiple inspection jobs and press button 504 to delete multiple inspection jobs simultaneously.

[0049] Button 505 is the inspection setting button, which is used to configure the inspection settings for inspection jobs for which reference image registration has been completed. Pressing button 505 transitions to the inspection setting screen 800 shown in Figure 8. Button 506 is the inspection button, which performs an inspection for inspection jobs for which reference image registration and inspection settings have been completed. Pressing button 506 transitions to the inspection job setting screen 900 shown in Figure 9.

[0050] Button 507 is a font registration button, used to register font information for character inspection, and transitions to the font list screen 600 shown in Figure 6. Area 508 displays a list of created inspection jobs. Area 509 displays the status of the inspection results, and jobs that have been inspected are marked "Inspected". If it is marked "Inspected", you can press it to output the inspection report.

[0051] Next, we will explain font registration using Figures 6 to 9.

[0052] Figure 6 shows an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 for checking registered fonts. Here, new fonts can be registered and already registered fonts can be deleted. Button 601 is used to dismiss the display of screen 600. Pressing button 601 transitions to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5. Note that screen 600 in Figure 6 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on the job management screen 500 in Figure 5.

[0053] Button 602 is used to register a new font. Pressing button 602 transitions to the font registration job settings screen 700 shown in Figure 7. Button 603 is used to delete an already registered font. Select the font you want to delete from the font list 604 and press button 603 to remove the font from the font list 604. Area 604 displays a list of registered fonts. Button 605 is used to hide the display on screen 600. Pressing button 605 transitions to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5.

[0054] Figure 7 shows an example of a screen displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection device 110 for configuring font registration jobs. Font registration is performed by reading a sheet of paper on which the font to be registered is printed. Therefore, when registering a new font, the paper size and number of sheets to be read must be set.

[0055] Button 701 is used to hide the display on screen 700. Pressing button 701 will transition to the font list screen 600 shown in Figure 6. Note that screen 700 in Figure 7 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on the font list screen 600 in Figure 6.

[0056] The setting unit 702 is for setting the paper size for the print job that will register the font. The setting unit 703 is for setting the number of sheets of paper for the print job that will register the font. Button 704 is an OK button that saves the settings on the font registration job setting screen 700 and transitions to the font registration image loading screen 800 shown in Figure 8. Button 705 is a Cancel button that does not save the settings on the font registration job setting screen 700 and transitions to the font list screen 600 shown in Figure 6.

[0057] Figure 8 shows an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 for registering reference images. Button 801 is used to clear the display on screen 800.

[0058] Pressing button 801 transitions to the font registration job setting screen 700 shown in Figure 7. Note that screen 800 in Figure 8 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on screen 700 in Figure 7. Button 802 is a button to start reading the font registration image. Pressing button 802 puts the inspection device 110 into reading standby mode, and when paper is transported from the image forming device 100, a scanned image is acquired. Button 803 is an inspection area selection button, which is pressed by the operator when they want to select an already set area.

[0059] Button 804 is used to rotate the image displayed in area 806. Button 805 is pressed by the operator when creating a new area to register a font. After pressing the button, the operator sets the registration area for the image displayed in area 806.

[0060] Area 811 shows an example of the registration area settings. If there are multiple sheets to be loaded, the displayed image is switched using button 807. The display of the front and back of the loaded sheet is also switched using button 807. Setting item 808 is for setting the orientation of registration area 811 created by button 805. Here, the orientation is set to match the orientation of the string contained in registration area 811. By setting the orientation, the font is registered with an image in an upright position. Button 809 is a character extraction button, which divides the string within the registration area created by button 805 into individual character areas and associates each character with a character code.

[0061] Pressing button 809 will take you to the font registration screen 900 shown in Figure 9. Button 810 is used to close the display on screen 800. Pressing button 810 will take you to the font registration job settings screen 700 shown in Figure 7.

[0062] Figure 9 shows an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 for registering fonts. Button 901 is used to clear the display of screen 900. Pressing button 901 transitions to the font registration image loading screen 800 shown in Figure 8. Note that screen 900 in Figure 9 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on screen 800 in Figure 8.

[0063] Area 902 is an area for displaying the image of the registration area 811 shown in Figure 8. Setting item 903 sets the information of the font to be registered. In this embodiment, the font name and font size are set, but it is not limited to these, and items that make it easy for the operator to select a font when setting up inspection should be set. Area 904 is an area that displays a list of characters divided into individual characters within the registration area 811. Area 905 is an area that displays images divided into areas for each character, and images divided into individual characters are displayed as shown in divided area 909.

[0064] The setting unit 906 sets the character code. If the image displayed in area 905 is "A", the operator sets the character code to "A". This establishes a correspondence between the character images, which are divided into individual characters, and the character codes. Based on this correspondence information, OCR processing is performed on the image read during inspection.

[0065] Button 907 is used to register the mapping between character images and character codes set in area 904, and the font information set in setting item 903. Pressing button 907 transitions to the font list screen 600 shown in Figure 6, and the registered information is added to the font list 604. Button 908 is a cancel button that transitions to the font image loading screen 600 shown in Figure 8 without saving the settings in area 904 and the setting value of setting item 903.

[0066] Next, we will explain the registration of reference images using Figures 10 and 11.

[0067] Figure 10 shows an example of a screen displayed on the UI unit 320 of the inspection device 110 for setting up a reference image registration job. Here, the paper size and number of sheets are set when registering a new reference image.

[0068] Button 1001 is used to hide the display on screen 1000. Pressing button 1001 transitions to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5. Note that screen 1000 in Figure 10 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on the job management screen 500 in Figure 5. Setting unit 1002 is a setting unit for setting the paper size of the print job for registering the reference image. Setting unit 1003 is a setting unit for setting the number of sheets of paper per copy of the print job for inspection. If there are two or more print jobs per copy, multiple images can be registered as correct images. Button 1004 is an OK button that saves the settings of the reference image registration job setting screen 600 and transitions to the reference image registration screen 1100 shown in Figure 11. Button 1005 is a Cancel button that does not save the settings of the reference image registration job setting screen 1000 and transitions to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5.

[0069] Figure 11(a) is an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 for registering reference images. Button 1101 is used to dismiss the display of screen 1100. Pressing button 1101 transitions to the reference image registration job setting screen 1000 shown in Figure 10. Note that screen 1100 in Figure 11(a) may be configured to be displayed superimposed on screen 1000 in Figure 10.

[0070] Button 1102 is used to start reading the reference image. Pressing button 1102 puts the inspection device 110 into reading standby mode. The image reading unit 310 is used to scan the printed material transported from the image forming apparatus 100 and acquire the scanned image. Area 1103 is the area that displays the image of the scanned printed sheet, and nothing is displayed before reading begins. Once the scanned image is acquired, the scanned image is displayed in area 1103. If there are multiple sheets to be scanned, the displayed image is switched using button 1104. The display of the front and back of the scanned sheet is also switched using button 1104.

[0071] Button 1105 is used to register the loaded image as the reference image. The button becomes pressable once loading is complete. Button 1106 is a cancel button that does not register the loaded image as the reference image and transitions to the reference image registration job setting screen 1000 shown in Figure 10.

[0072] Figure 11(b) is an example of the reference registration screen 1100 that is displayed after the reference image has been loaded. Explanations of parts common to Figure 11(a) are omitted here. The loaded image is previewed in area 1103, and button 1105 becomes pressable. When button 1105 is pressed, the system transitions to the inspection settings screen 1200 shown in Figure 12.

[0073] Next, we will explain the inspection settings using Figure 12.

[0074] Figure 12(a) is an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 for setting inspection parameters.

[0075] Button 1201 is used to clear the display on screen 1200. Pressing button 1201 transitions to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5. Button 1202 is a button for selecting an inspection area, which is pressed by the operator when they want to select an already set area. Button 1203 is a button for deleting an inspection area, which is pressed by the operator when they want to delete a selected area. Button 1204 is used to rotate the image displayed in area 1209.

[0076] Button 1205 is pressed by the operator when creating a new print image inspection area. After pressing the button, the operator sets the inspection area for the reference image displayed in the preview area 1209. For example, area 1210 containing an object composed of circles and triangles is set by the operator. Area 1210 shows an example of setting a print image inspection area. Button 1206 is pressed by the operator when creating a new text inspection area. After pressing the button, the operator sets the inspection area for the reference image displayed in area 1209. For example, area 1211 containing an object with "ABCDE" written on it is set by the operator. Area 1211 shows an example of setting a text inspection area.

[0077] Button 1207 is pressed by the operator when creating a new barcode inspection area. After pressing the button, the operator sets the inspection area for the reference image displayed in area 1209. For example, area 1211 containing decodeable objects such as QR codes (registered trademarks) is set by the operator. Area 1212 shows an example of setting a barcode inspection area. Button 1208 is a button for changing the reference image and is used when changing the reference image. When button 1208 is pressed, the system transitions to the reference image registration screen 1100 shown in Figure 11(a).

[0078] Area 1209 is a display area that shows the loaded reference image. If there are multiple sheets to load, the displayed image is switched using button 1213. The front and back sides of the loaded sheet are also switched using button 1213. Setting area 1214 is a group of UI elements for setting the level of defects to be detected when performing print image inspection. The detection items for print image inspection are items related to the characteristics of defects that you want to detect when inspecting printed materials. Setting area 1214 is displayed when the currently selected area is the print image inspection area.

[0079] Setting item 1215 is for positional misalignment inspection settings, and sets the amount of misalignment of the printed position from the reference image. In this embodiment, it shows an example where the operator specifies that a misalignment of 2 mm or more should be detected. Setting item 1216 is for setting round defects (dots) and linear defects (streaks), and sets the detection level for each. The detection level is a parameter set in stages to determine how large a defect must be to be judged as a defect, depending on the characteristics of the detected defect. For example, there are five levels from level 1 to level 5, and level 5 can detect thinner and smaller defects than level 1. Also, a level can be set for each inspection item, such as inspection level 5 for dots and inspection level 4 for streaks. Setting item 1216 indicates that the operator has selected inspection level 4 for defects (dots) and inspection level 4 for defects (streaks). Setting area 1217 is a group of UI for making settings for the area currently selected in area 1209.

[0080] Setting item 1218 sets the scope of application for the selected area. If nothing is selected, the selected inspection area will only be placed on the page currently displayed in area 1209. If "Same side as current page" is selected, the selected inspection area will be placed on the same side of the sheet, depending on whether the selected inspection area is located on the front or back of the sheet. If "All pages" is selected, the selected inspection area will be placed on all pages. Area 1219 is an area that shows the number of character areas and barcode areas set on the page currently displayed in area 1209. In this embodiment, it is displayed as a bar graph, but it is not limited to this, and any other form of graph or numerical value can be displayed as long as the operator can recognize the number of settings. By displaying the number of inspection area settings as a bar graph or similar, the operator can recognize how many more areas can be set, and if the number of settable areas exceeds the number of settable areas, which areas should be deleted to bring it within the number of settable areas.

[0081] Display 1220 represents the number of areas that can be set on one page, and setting an area that exceeds Display 1220 means that the inspection limit has been exceeded. In this embodiment, Display 1220 is displayed using a line on the bar graph and a triangular shape below the bar graph, but the display form is not limited to this. For example, instead of a triangular arrow, another shape or the number of areas that can be set may be displayed, and the form is not limited as long as the upper limit of the number of areas that can be set is displayed in a way that the user can recognize. Button 1221 is an OK button that saves the settings of screen 1200 and transitions to the inspection job setting screen 1300 shown in Figure 13.

[0082] Button 1222 is a cancel button that allows you to transition to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5, without saving the settings of screen 1200, but saving only the reference image.

[0083] Figure 12(b) shows an example of the inspection settings screen when the code type of the currently selected setting area is a character area. Here, the code type is information indicating at least whether it is a character type or a barcode type. Explanations of parts common to Figure 12(a) are omitted here.

[0084] Here, we assume that the currently selected area is character area 1211.

[0085] The setting area 1223 is where you set the correct answer CSV file to be used for verification during the matching check. By pressing button 1224, you can select a file, and the selected file name will be displayed. Specifying the correct answer CSV file is common to both character inspection and barcode inspection. In this embodiment, only one correct answer CSV file can be referenced, but it may be configured to allow specifying multiple correct answer CSV files.

[0086] Setting area 1225 is used to configure the currently selected character area. Here you can specify the character orientation, font, number of characters, whether or not to perform a matching check, and the column of the correct CSV file to be used for the matching check. Setting item 1226 sets the character orientation included in character area 1211. Setting item 1227 sets the font for OCR processing of character area 1211. Here you select a font registered in the font list shown in Figure 6. Setting item 1228 specifies the number of characters to be printed in character area 1211. Setting item 1229 sets whether or not to perform a matching check. If matching check is set to "Yes", OCR processing of character area 1211 is performed using the correct CSV file specified in setting area 1223 and the column number specified in setting item 1230, and a matching check is performed between the read string and the string specified in the correct CSV.

[0087] Element 1231 shows the total of the character / barcode inspection area settings other than the currently selected area. In other words, if you are currently setting a third area, the sum of the first and second set areas is displayed in 1231.

[0088] Element 1232 indicates the number of areas used in the currently selected character area 1211. That is, if a third area is currently set, both the third set area and 1231 are clearly displayed. The combined number of areas in 1231 and 1232 represents the total number of areas set in the character / barcode inspection area, as shown in the image displayed in area 1209.

[0089] Figure 12(c) shows an example of the inspection settings screen when the currently selected setting area is the barcode area. Explanations of parts common to Figures 12(a) and 12(b) are omitted here.

[0090] Here, we assume that the currently selected area is barcode area 1212.

[0091] In setting area 1233, you configure the currently selected barcode area. Here you can specify the code orientation, code type, number of characters, whether or not to perform a matching check, and the column of the correct CSV file to use for the matching check.

[0092] Setting item 1234 sets the orientation of the barcode in barcode area 1212.

[0093] Setting item 1235 is used to set the type of barcode to be used in the barcode area 1212. Here, you can select a barcode type that has been registered in advance.

[0094] Setting item 1236 specifies the character type (character category) used when decoding the code used in the barcode area 1212. Here, you can set, for example, "numbers," "alphanumeric characters," or "Kanji."

[0095] Setting item 1237 specifies the number of characters in the code content to be printed in the barcode area 1212.

[0096] In settings 1238 and 1239, similar to the character field, you can set whether or not to perform a matching check and the column number to use for matching in the correct answer CSV file.

[0097] 1240 represents the total number of character / barcode inspection area settings excluding the currently selected area.

[0098] Element 1241 indicates the number of areas used in the currently selected barcode area 1212. The sum of the areas of elements 1240 and 1241 represents the total number of areas set for the character / barcode inspection area in the image displayed in area 1209, and the total value is the same as the sum of 1231 and 1232 shown in Figure 12(b). An explanation of Figure 12(d) will be given later.

[0099] Next, we will explain the inspection settings using Figures 13 and 14.

[0100] Figure 13 shows an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 for setting inspection jobs.

[0101] Button 1301 is used to clear the display on screen 900. Pressing button 1301 will transition to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5.

[0102] The setting section 1302 indicates the paper size for the print job to be inspected. Since the paper size is set when registering the reference image, it is only displayed on this screen and the setting value cannot be changed.

[0103] The setting section 1303 shows the number of sheets of paper per print job for inspection. Since the number of sheets of paper per print job is set when registering the reference image, this screen only displays the information and the setting value cannot be changed.

[0104] The setting unit 1304 performs an inspection and sets the number of copies for the print job.

[0105] Button 1307 is an OK button that saves the settings of screen 1300 and transitions to the inspection screen 1400 shown in Figure 14.

[0106] Button 1308 is a cancel button that does not save the settings on screen 1300 and transitions to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5.

[0107] Figure 14(a) is an example of a screen displayed on the UI section 320 of the inspection device 110 during inspection.

[0108] Button 1401 is used to clear the display on screen 1400. Pressing button 1401 will transition to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5.

[0109] Button 1402 is the button that starts reading the inspection image.

[0110] Area 1403 is the area that displays the image of the loaded print sheet, and nothing is displayed there before the inspection begins.

[0111] Area 1404 displays the inspection results. Area 1405 displays the inspection results for each side of the inspection sheet, and if an inspection fails, it also displays detailed results of the reasons for the failure. In this embodiment, the number of inspections, the number of OKs, and the number of NGs are displayed, but this is not the only way to display them; any items that are easy for the operator to understand the inspection results should be displayed.

[0112] Button 1406 is used to save the test results and end the test. Pressing button 1406 will take you to the job management screen 500 shown in Figure 5.

[0113] Figure 14(b) shows an example of the inspection screen 1400 that is displayed after the inspection sheet has finished loading.

[0114] The loaded image is displayed in region 1403, and the inspection results are displayed in regions 1403 and 1404. Figure 15 will be explained later.

[0115] <Overall Inspection Flow> Next, the overall flow from the registration process before the start of inspection to the execution of inspection in the inspection device 110 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 4.

[0116] This flowchart assumes that the program code stored in ROM304 is loaded into RAM303 and executed by CPU302.

[0117] In step S401, the CPU 302 saves the job settings for font registration. Here, the information set on the font registration job setting screen 700 shown in Figure 7 is saved to the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110.

[0118] In step S402, the CPU 302 registers font information. When button 802 is pressed on the font image reading screen 800 shown in Figure 8, the CPU 302 puts the inspection device 110 into read-and-wait state. When a printed sheet is transported to the inspection device 110, the CPU 302 takes an image of the printed sheet. The captured image is displayed in area 806 shown in Figure 8. After setting the character area to be registered and pressing button 809, the CPU 302 extracts the characters and displays the font registration screen shown in Figure 9. When button 907 is pressed, the CPU 302 saves the font image, character code, and font information to the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110.

[0119] In step S403, the CPU 302 saves the job settings for registering the reference image. Here, the information set on the reference image registration job setting screen 1000 shown in Figure 10 is saved to the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110.

[0120] In step S404, the CPU 302 registers a reference image. When button 1102 is pressed on the reference image registration screen 1100 shown in Figure 11(a), the CPU 302 puts the inspection device 110 into read-and-wait state. When a printed sheet is transported to the inspection device 110, the CPU 302 takes an image of the printed sheet. The captured image is displayed in area 1103 shown in Figure 11(a), and when button 1105 is pressed, the CPU 302 saves the captured image as a reference image in the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110.

[0121] In step S405, the CPU 302 saves various inspection settings, such as the inspection area and inspection level, to the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110, according to the operator's inspection settings set on the inspection setting screen 1200 shown in Figure 12. Details of step S405 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0122] In step S406, the CPU 302 determines whether the total number of configurable areas across all pages, which were set for inspection in step S405, is less than or equal to the number of configurable areas calculated in step S1602. In this embodiment, the total number of configurable areas does not refer to the count of areas set, for example, in Figure 12(a) as 1211 and 1212. The total number of configurable areas is the number of character inspection areas and barcode areas set for each page in step S405. The number of configurable areas is the number of areas that can be set on each page. Details of the total number of configurable areas and the number of configurable areas will be described later.

[0123] Figure 12(d) shows an example where the number of character and barcode areas to be inspected exceeds the number of configurable areas. Areas 1242, 1245, and 1248 are each assumed to have a usage count of "1". Areas 1243, 1244, 1246, 1247, 1249, and 1250 are each assumed to have a usage count of "5". The operator will then explain the scenario assuming that area 1250 is the last area to be configured.

[0124] Element 1251 shows the total number of used areas excluding area 1250. 1252 shows the number of used areas in area 1250. The total number of configurable areas for the currently displayed page, added together by 1251 and 1252, is "33". If the loaded image is A4 size, the table information shown in Figure 17 indicates that the upper limit for configurable areas is "30", which exceeds the number of configurable areas shown in 1219. In Figure 12(d), the number of configurable areas "30" is indicated by a black triangle. If the user performs an inspection in this state, the inspection process will not be completed in time, and an inspection error will occur.

[0125] If step S406 determines that the total number of configurable areas is less than or equal to the number of configurable areas (YES in step S406), no warning message is displayed, and the inspection setting is completed. If step S406 determines that the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas (NO in step S406), the process proceeds to step S408.

[0126] In step S408, the CPU 302 displays a warning message on the UI unit 320 indicating that the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas. Figure 15 shows an example of the warning screen in this embodiment. If the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas for even one page out of all pages, screen 1500 is displayed. Screen 1500 indicates that the inspection settings should be reviewed and displays a message prompting the user to reconfigure and review the selected areas. This prevents the inspection from being performed and resulting in an inspection error. Button 1501 is used to dismiss the display of screen 1500. Pressing button 1501 transitions to the inspection setting screen 1200 shown in Figure 12. Note that screen 1500 in Figure 15 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on screen 1200 in Figure 12. Also, the wording on screen 1500 is not limited to this.

[0127] In step S407, the CPU 302 saves the settings configured on the inspection job setting screen 1300 shown in Figure 13 to the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110.

[0128] In step S409, the CPU 302 performs the inspection. When the "Start Inspection" button is pressed on the inspection screen 1400 shown in Figure 14, the CPU 302 puts the inspection device 110 into read-and-wait state. When the inspection sheet is transported to the inspection device 110, the CPU 302 takes an image of the inspection sheet and saves the scanned image to the RAM 303 of the inspection device 110. Then, the CPU 302 performs a print image inspection using the scanned inspection image and the reference image registered in step S404, along with the inspection settings set in steps S405 and S407. In addition, character inspection and barcode inspection are performed using the font information registered in step S405, the barcode information that has been registered in advance, and the inspection settings set in step S405. Specifically, for area 1211, the string read by OCR processing is compared with the correct answer data prepared in advance. For area 1212, the data read by decoding is compared with the correct answer data prepared in advance.

[0129] In this embodiment, the timing for displaying the warning screen was described as being after the inspection settings are completed. That is, in S1603 of Figure 16, when it is confirmed that button 1221 on screen 1200, which is the inspection settings screen, is pressed, the process proceeds to S406 of Figure 4. In S406, it is determined whether the total number of setting areas on all pages that were inspected in step S405 is less than or equal to the number of configurable areas calculated in step S1602. If it is greater than or equal to the number of configurable areas, a warning is displayed in S408. However, the timing for displaying the warning may also be during the inspection settings process. This is intended to be displayed when the user has set inspection areas that exceed the number of configurable areas. For example, when the graph display is updated in S1611 of Figure 16, the determination is then made using the method described in S406, and if it is greater than or equal to the number of configurable areas, screen 1500 may be displayed superimposed on the display screen in Figure 12. Alternatively, if it is greater than or equal to the number of configurable areas, a warning message may be displayed on the screen in Figure 12, or the color of the bar graph may be changed, and the method of displaying the warning during the inspection settings process is not limited. Furthermore, the system may be configured such that button 1221 in Figure 12 is grayed out, for example, if the number of configurable areas exceeds the number of available areas, so that button 1221 cannot be pressed if the number of configurable areas is not less than or equal to the number of available areas.

[0130] <Inspection Setup Flow> Next, the details of the inspection setting flow in step S405 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 16. This flowchart assumes that the program code stored in ROM 304 is loaded into RAM 303 and executed by CPU 302.

[0131] In step S1601, CPU302 obtains the paper size of the print job being inspected.

[0132] In step S1602, the CPU 302 calculates the number of configurable areas per page from the paper size information obtained in S1601. Figure 17 shows an example of the number of configurable areas per page for a print job's paper size. For example, if the paper size of the print job is A3, the number of configurable areas is 30 for the character inspection area, and if it is B5, it is 27 for the character inspection area. The reason why the number of configurable areas differs depending on the paper size is that the time from the end of reading the first sheet of paper (start of inspection of the first sheet) to the end of reading the second sheet of paper (end of inspection of the first sheet), that is, the inspection time for one sheet of paper, changes depending on the paper size. The inspection device 110 stores the information shown in Figure 17 in the RAM 303 or a storage unit not shown. Since the number of configurable areas shown in Figure 11 depends on the paper transport speed of the image forming apparatus 100, it is desirable to have a table that lists different numbers of configurable areas depending on the paper transport speed of the image forming apparatus 100, for example, when there are different models of image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, while this embodiment shows tables for each paper size, if, for example, the paper transport speed changes depending on the type of paper, a table showing the number of configurable areas according to the type of paper may be used.

[0133] In step S1603, the CPU 302 determines whether the settings for the entire area have been completed. This determination is made by checking whether button 1221, shown in Figure 12(a), has been pressed. If button 1221 is pressed and it is determined that the settings for the entire area have been completed (YES in step S1603), the process proceeds to step S1609. If button 1221 is not pressed (NO in step S1603), the process proceeds to step S1604.

[0134] In step S1604, the CPU 302 determines whether to add or delete the inspection area.

[0135] If button 1206 or button 1207 is pressed and a character inspection area or barcode inspection area is added to area 1209 (YES in step S1604), proceed to S1605. If button 1203 is pressed and the inspection area is deleted (NO in step S1604), proceed to S1609.

[0136] In step S1605, when the CPU 302 receives a change in the inspection setting item, it obtains the inspection setting value for the selected inspection area. For example, in the case of a character inspection area, if a change is received in any one of the setting items 1225 shown in Figure 12(b), the CPU 302 obtains the setting values ​​for all of the setting items 1225. In the case of a barcode inspection area, if a change is received in any one of the setting items 1233 shown in Figure 12(c), the CPU 302 obtains the setting values ​​for all of the setting items 1233.

[0137] In step S1606, the CPU 302 determines whether the inspection settings for the selected area have been completed. Here, in the case of a character inspection area, it determines whether all the setting values ​​for setting item 1225 shown in Figure 12(b) have been set. In the case of a barcode inspection area, it determines whether all the setting values ​​for setting item 1233 shown in Figure 12(c) have been set.

[0138] If the settings are complete (YES in step S1606), proceed to S1607. If the settings are not complete (NO in step S1606), return to step S1605 and accept input for the setting items.

[0139] In step S1607, the CPU 302 calculates the number of used areas for the selected region. The number of used areas is calculated from one of the setting values ​​for code type, character type, or number of characters set in setting item 1225 in Figure 12(b) or 1233 in Figure 12(c). Specifically, it is calculated using the conversion table shown in Figure 18. Figure 18 is table information for calculating the number of used areas for the character inspection area and barcode inspection area based on the setting values ​​obtained in step S1605. This table information is pre-stored in RAM 303. As an example, let's consider a case where the configured inspection area obtained in step S1605 is a barcode inspection area for code 1, and the setting value obtained in step S1605 for this area is character type = alphanumeric, number of characters = ~950. In this case, the amount of data consisting of character type = alphanumeric, number of characters = ~950 included in the region selected in S1605 is converted to the number of used areas for the inspection area, and the converted value is calculated as 5 areas. The conversion between data volume and used memory is performed based on a conversion table, for example, shown in Figure 18. The calculated used memory is stored in RAM 303.

[0140] In this context, using five data areas means that the time required for data verification will be approximately five times longer compared to the standard usage of one data area.

[0141] In step S1608, CPU302 adds the number of used areas calculated in step S1607 to the total number of set areas for the currently displayed page.

[0142] In step S1609, the CPU 302 calculates the number of used areas in the region to be deleted. Here, the number of used areas in the deleted region is read from the RAM 303.

[0143] In step S1610, the number of used areas calculated in step S1609 is subtracted from the total number of setting areas for the currently displayed page.

[0144] In step S1611, the CPU 302 updates the display of area 1218 shown in Figures 12(b) and 12(c) using the total number of set areas calculated in step S1608 or step S1610 and the number of areas used in the currently selected area. The number of areas used in the currently selected area becomes "0" if the area has been deleted (NO in step S1604). Once the processing in step S1611 is complete, the CPU 302 enters a standby state and returns to step S1603.

[0145] In step S1612, the CPU 302 saves the inspection settings to the RAM 303 and terminates the inspection settings process. This concludes the explanation of the inspection settings flow in step S405.

[0146] As explained above, according to this embodiment, by notifying the operator whether it is possible to perform the inspection within the time limit, it becomes possible to determine whether the inspection can be performed before the inspection is carried out, and a printing system that can reliably inspect the set inspection area is provided.

[0147] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 1 describes a method for notifying whether inspection can be completed within the time limit by obtaining the setting items necessary for calculating the number of areas used when setting up character inspection or barcode inspection, and calculating the total number of set areas. However, with the method of Embodiment 1, the operator needs to manually input the character type setting item 1236 and the number of characters setting item 1237 shown in Figure 12(c). In particular, the number of characters in a barcode cannot be determined simply by looking at the code printed on the reference image, and it is necessary to check the correct answer CSV file, making the setting difficult.

[0148] This embodiment describes a method for automatically setting the character type and number of characters when the column number to be compared with the correct CSV file is specified, thereby reducing the operator's configuration burden.

[0149] The following describes the differences between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 described above. Parts not described in detail are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0150] The details of receiving the setting change item in step S1605 in Embodiment 2 will be explained with reference to Figure 19. This flowchart assumes that the program code stored in ROM 304 is loaded into RAM 303 and executed by CPU 302.

[0151] In this embodiment, we will explain using the state in which region 1212 shown in Figure 12(c) is selected as an example.

[0152] In step S1901, CPU 302 determines whether or not a verification check is performed. Here, it checks whether the verification check is set to "Yes" in setting item 1238. If the verification check is "Yes" (YES in step S1901), proceed to step S1902. If the verification check is "No" (NO in step S1901), proceed to step S1912.

[0153] In step S1902, CPU 302 determines whether the correct CSV file is set in setting area 1223. If the correct CSV file is set (YES in step S1902), proceed to step S1903. If the correct CSV file is not set (NO in step S1902), proceed to step S1912.

[0154] In step S1903, CPU 302 obtains the column number from setting item 1239 shown in Figure 12(c).

[0155] In step S1904, CPU302 retrieves the string corresponding to the column number obtained in step S1903 from the correct CSV file.

[0156] In step S1905, CPU 302 calculates the character type and number of characters from the string obtained in step S1904.

[0157] In step S1906, the CPU 302 uses the character type, number of characters, and code type settings obtained in step S1905 to calculate the number of used memory areas from the table information shown in Figure 8(b).

[0158] In step S1907, CPU 302 determines whether the number of used areas calculated in step S1906 is greater than the maximum number of used areas. The maximum number of used areas is a counter used to search for the row with the largest number of used areas among all rows in the specified column of the correct CSV file, and its initial value is "0". If the number of used areas is greater than the maximum number of used areas (YES in step S1907), the process proceeds to step S1908. If the number of used areas is less than or equal to the maximum number of used areas (NO in step S1908), the process proceeds to step S1910.

[0159] In step S1908, CPU302 saves the character type and number of characters in the current line's string to RAM303.

[0160] In step S1909, CPU302 updates the maximum number of used areas with the number of used areas calculated in step S1906.

[0161] In step S1910, CPU 302 determines whether it has finished checking the amount of memory used for all rows of the correct CSV file. If it has finished checking all rows (YES in step S1910), it proceeds to step S1911. If it has not finished checking all rows (NO in step S1910), it moves to the next row and returns to S1904.

[0162] In step S1911, the CPU 302 sets the character type and number of characters saved in step S1908 to setting items 1236 and 1237, respectively, as shown in Figure 12(b). The value set in setting item 1237 here is the group to which the number of characters saved in step S1908 belongs, as shown in the table in Figure 18(b).

[0163] In step S1912, CPU 302 obtains the setting value of setting area 1233.

[0164] The above is an explanation of the flow for receiving setting change items in step S1605.

[0165] As explained above, according to this embodiment, when specifying the column number to be compared with the correct CSV file, the character type and number of characters are automatically set, thereby reducing the configuration burden on the operator.

[0166] (Embodiment 3) Embodiments 1 and 2 describe a method for notifying whether inspection can be performed within the time limit by obtaining the setting items necessary to calculate the number of areas used when setting up character inspection or barcode inspection, and calculating the total number of set areas. However, with the methods of Embodiments 1 and 2, when an operator performs the inspection, it is necessary to make changes such as reducing the number of set inspection areas. As a result, there is a possibility that the inspection of the part that was originally intended to be inspected may not be performed.

[0167] This embodiment describes a method for controlling the system to prevent inspection errors even when the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas.

[0168] The overall flow from the registration process before the start of inspection to the execution of inspection in the inspection device 110 in Embodiment 3 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 20.

[0169] This flowchart assumes that the program code stored in ROM304 is loaded into RAM303 and executed by CPU302.

[0170] Steps S401-S407 and S409 are the same as in Figure 4, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0171] In step S2001, the CPU 302 displays a warning message on the UI unit 320 indicating that the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas. Figure 21 shows an example of the warning screen in this embodiment. If the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas for even one page out of all pages, displaying screen 2100 prevents the inspection from being performed and causing an inspection error. It also presents the operator with the option to perform the inspection at a reduced printing speed. In this embodiment, only the reduction in printing speed is mentioned, but the actual printing speed may also be displayed.

[0172] Button 2101 is an OK button that acknowledges the reduction in printing speed and proceeds with the inspection. Pressing button 2101 transitions to the inspection job setting screen 1300 shown in Figure 13.

[0173] Button 2102 is used to clear the display on screen 2100. Pressing button 2002 transitions to the inspection settings screen 1200 shown in Figure 12. Note that screen 2100 in Figure 21 may be configured to be displayed superimposed on screen 1200 in Figure 12.

[0174] In step S2002, the CPU 302 determines whether the test execution is set. If button 2101 shown in Figure 21 is pressed (YES in step S2002), the process proceeds to step S2003. If button 2102 shown in Figure 21 is pressed (NO in step S2002), the process returns to the test settings in step S405.

[0175] In step S2003, the CPU 302 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 of the printing speed and proceeds to step S407. In step S2003, the CPU 302 calculates the inspection processing time required per page from the total number of set areas used in the determination in step S406 and notifies the image forming apparatus. If the processing time required per area is 20 msec and the total number of set areas is "33", the inspection processing time required per page will be 660 msec. The CPU 302 notifies the image forming apparatus 100 of the processing time of 660 msec. Upon receiving the notification, the CPU 202 of the image forming apparatus 100 adjusts the paper spacing (the distance from the trailing edge of the first sheet of paper to the leading edge of the second sheet of paper). For example, when printing A4 size paper at 100 ppm, it is necessary to process each sheet at 600 msec. Assuming a paper transport speed of 800 mm / sec and a transport size of 210 mm for A4 paper, the time to read from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the paper is 263 msec. When printing at 100 ppm, the paper spacing is 600 - 263 = 337 msec. If an inspection time of 660 msec is required, the CPU 202 of the image forming apparatus 100 sets the paper spacing to 660 - 263 = 397 msec.

[0176] In step S409, the image forming apparatus 100 performs printing so that the paper spacing is as calculated in S407, and the inspection apparatus 110 performs inspection on the printed material transported from the image forming apparatus 100.

[0177] The above is a description of the overall flow from the registration process before the start of the inspection to the execution of the inspection in this embodiment.

[0178] In this embodiment, the timing for displaying the warning screen shown in Figure 21 was described as being after the inspection settings were completed. That is, in S1603 of Figure 20, in S406, it was determined whether the total number of setting areas on all pages that were inspected in step S405 was less than or equal to the number of configurable areas calculated, and if it was greater than or equal to the number of configurable areas, a warning was displayed in S2001. However, the timing for displaying the warning may also be during the inspection settings. This is intended to be displayed when the user sets inspection areas that exceed the number of configurable areas. For example, when the graph display is updated in S1611 of Figure 16, the determination is then made using the method described in S406, and if it is greater than or equal to the number of configurable areas, screen 2100 may be displayed superimposed on the display screen of Figure 12. Alternatively, if it is greater than or equal to the number of configurable areas, a warning message may be displayed within the screen of Figure 12, and the display method during the inspection settings is not limited.

[0179] Alternatively, the information could be displayed before the test is executed. In other words, when button 1402 on screen 1400, as shown in Figure 14, screen 1500 could be displayed superimposed on screen 1400.

[0180] As explained above, according to this embodiment, even if the total number of configurable areas exceeds the number of configurable areas, it is possible to perform the inspection and control the process so that no inspection errors occur.

[0181] (Other embodiments) Although various examples and embodiments of this embodiment have been described above, the spirit and scope of this embodiment are not limited to the specific descriptions within this specification.

[0182] This embodiment can also be implemented by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiment to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be implemented by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0183] 110 Inspection device 320 UI section 305 Inspection Processing Unit 302 CPU

Claims

1. An inspection device, A display control means for displaying information on the display unit, A setting means for defining one or more regions that include the object to be inspected, The system includes an inspection means for inspecting data read from an object included in the area set by the setting means, The display control means displays, in the setting screen displayed on the display unit for setting by the setting means, the upper limit of the sum of values ​​based on the data amount of objects included in the one or more areas set by the setting means as a recognizable graphic, as the upper limit within which the inspection device can complete the inspection within the time limit. The sum of the values ​​based on the aforementioned data amount is displayed in a graph as a set amount relative to the upper limit, and the figure and the graph are displayed in relation to each other. Furthermore, the set quantities are the sum and a value based on the amount of data of the object included in the last set region by the setting means, which are displayed in a recognizable manner. An inspection device characterized by the following features.

2. The inspection means starts the inspection in one or more areas set by the setting means when the set amount does not exceed the upper limit. The inspection apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display control means displays a figure that can recognize the upper limit.

4. The setting means sets multiple areas on the setting screen displayed on the display unit. The inspection apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the display control means displays the figure on the setting screen.

5. The inspection apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, as one or more regions are set by the setting means, a value based on the amount of data of objects included in the set regions is reflected in the graph as the set amount.

6. The inspection apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the graph is displayed using a bar graph.

7. The display control means will display a warning on the display unit if the set amount exceeds the upper limit. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A registration means for registering a reference image that serves as the basis for inspection by the inspection means, The display control means previews the reference image registered in the registration means, The setting means sets one or more regions containing the object to be inspected in the previewed reference image. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The inspection device, It is connected to a printer that prints images onto a record sheet. A generation means for generating a scanned image from a printed document on which an image has been printed using the aforementioned printing device, It has, The inspection means performs an inspection on the object to be inspected included in the scan image generated by the generation means. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The aforementioned upper limit is calculated in advance based on the size of the record sheet and the printing speed of the printing device. The inspection apparatus according to feature 9.

11. The amount of data of an object included in the area set by the setting means is calculated from one of the setting values ​​of the code type, character type, or number of characters of the data included in the area. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The inspection means compares the data contained in the object with pre-prepared correct data. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The aforementioned object is a string. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The aforementioned object is a barcode. The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The warning display prompts the user to reconfigure one or more areas set by the setting means. The inspection apparatus according to feature 7.

16. The inspection device is connected to a printing device that prints images onto a recording sheet. The aforementioned warning display is a display that notifies that the printing speed of the printing device will be changed. The inspection apparatus according to feature 7.

17. The change in printing speed is such that the inspection device is changed to the printing speed necessary to perform inspection of one or more areas set by the setting means to exceed the upper limit. The inspection apparatus according to claim 16.

18. A control method for an inspection device that inspects an object to be inspected, A setup step to define one or more regions containing the object to be inspected, In a setting screen for performing the settings according to the setting step displayed on the display unit, the upper limit of the sum of values ​​based on the data amount of objects included in the one or more areas set by the setting step is displayed as a recognizable graphic, as the upper limit within which the inspection device can complete the inspection within the time limit, and the sum of values ​​based on the data amount based on the settings of the one or more areas is displayed as a setting amount for the upper limit, and the graphic and the graph are displayed in association with each other, and further, the sum and the value based on the data amount of objects included in the last set area in the setting step are displayed in a recognizable manner as the setting amounts, An execution step that performs an inspection of the data read from objects contained within the set area, A control method for an inspection device, characterized by comprising the following features.

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