Information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and program

Abstract

To achieve both a reduction in the amount of information on a read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which an image for diagnosis is formed which is used for diagnosis of an image forming apparatus, and ensuring the accuracy of the diagnosis carried out for the image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: A CPU edits read image data 5B shown in (A) based on information on a non-formation read part 44 in the read image data 5B. When the information on the non-formation read part 44 does not include information indicating formation of an image in a non-formation part, the CPU deletes the non-formation read part 44 included in the read image data 5B as shown in (B). In this case, the non-formation read part 44 is not output upon output of the read image data 5B to a server device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , , , , , , , ,

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that prints a test chart corresponding to a type of defect of an image to be analyzed in advance and transmits the printed test chart as image data read to another apparatus.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In diagnosing an image forming apparatus, from the viewpoint of shortening the processing time, etc., it is preferable to reduce the information necessary for diagnosis. For example, by deleting a part of the read image obtained in diagnosis, the information necessary for diagnosis can be reduced. On the other hand, performing a process of deleting a part of the read image obtained in diagnosis may cause a decrease in the accuracy of diagnosis. An object of the present invention is to achieve both reduction in the amount of information of a read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosing an image forming apparatus is formed and ensuring the accuracy of diagnosis performed on this image forming apparatus.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The invention described in claim 1 is an information processing apparatus comprising a processor, wherein the processor acquires a read image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosing an image forming apparatus is formed, and from the read image, it acquires an image read portion, which is the portion on which the diagnostic image is being read, and a portion of the unformed read portion, which is the portion on which the unformed portion of the recording medium on which the diagnostic image is not formed is being read, and outputs the acquired image read portion and the portion thereof. The invention described in claim 2 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor acquires the portion of the non-formed reading portion that reads the edge of the recording medium as the portion. The invention described in claim 3 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the diagnostic image is formed on the recording medium by the image forming apparatus, the diagnostic image is formed on the leading end side in the transport direction of the recording medium, and the unformed portion is generated on the rear end side in the transport direction of the recording medium, and the processor acquires the portion of the unformed reading portion that reads the rear end of the recording medium as the portion. The invention described in claim 4 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor acquires apparatus information which is information about the image forming apparatus that formed the diagnostic image on the recording medium, and determines the portion to be acquired from the unformed reading portion based on the apparatus information. The invention described in claim 5 is an information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the processor acquires, as device information, model identification information which is information that identifies the model of the image forming apparatus or malfunction information which is information about a malfunction that occurred in the image forming apparatus, and determines the portion to be acquired from the unformed reading portion based on the model identification information or the malfunction information. The invention described in claim 6 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor generates a composite image by combining the image reading portion and the portion, and outputs the composite image when outputting the image reading portion and the portion. The invention described in claim 7 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor associates common identification information with each of the acquired image reading portion and portion, and outputs the image reading portion and portion to which the common identification information is associated. The invention described in claim 8 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the processor associates the common identification information with the image reading portion and the portion acquired for each recording medium, and makes the common identification information associated with the image reading portion and the portion different for each recording medium. The invention described in claim 9 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor acquires the image reading portion and the portion when the size of the read image is larger than the size of the smallest recording medium capable of forming the diagnostic image, and outputs the acquired image reading portion and portion, and when the size of the read image is the smallest size, does not perform the process of acquiring the image reading portion and portion, and outputs the read image. The invention described in claim 10 is an information processing device comprising a processor, wherein the processor acquires a read image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium having a formed portion on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosing an image forming apparatus is formed and a non-formed portion on which the diagnostic image is not formed, and edits the read image based on information about the non-formed read portion, which is the portion of the read image on which the non-formed portion is read. The invention described in claim 11 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the processor deletes or reduces the unformed read portion included in the read image if the information about the unformed read portion does not include information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion. The invention described in claim 12 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the processor does not perform a process to delete the unformed read portion or a process to reduce the unformed read portion if the information about the unformed read portion includes information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion. The invention described in claim 13 is an information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the processor deletes the portion of the unformed reading portion other than the portion from which the image is being read, if the information about the unformed reading portion includes information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion. The invention described in claim 14 is an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, comprising: an image forming means for forming a diagnostic image on a recording medium used for diagnosing the image forming apparatus; a reading means for reading the recording medium on which the diagnostic image has been formed; and an information processing apparatus for processing the read image obtained by the reading means, wherein the information processing apparatus includes the information processing apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 13. The invention described in claim 15 is an image forming apparatus comprising a processor and an image forming means for forming an image on a recording medium, wherein the processor acquires a diagnostic image used for diagnosing the image forming apparatus, and when the diagnostic image is formed on a large-size recording medium which is a recording medium of a specific size larger than the diagnostic image, the processor ensures that a plurality of the diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium. The image forming apparatus is configured such that, when each of the diagnostic images used for diagnosis in the image forming apparatus is formed on a small-size recording medium which is a recording medium smaller in size than the large-size recording medium, the diagnostic images are formed on each of the different small-size recording mediums, and when the processor is configured such that multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium, the diagnostic images formed on each of the multiple different small-size recording mediums are formed on a common large-size recording medium. That is the case. The invention described in claim 16 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processor, when a plurality of diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium, forms on the large-size recording medium one diagnostic image which is the acquired diagnostic image and other diagnostic images different from the one diagnostic image. Claim 17The invention described above is an image forming apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processor is configured such that a plurality of diagnostic images, which are different from each other, are formed on the large-size recording medium. Claim 18 The invention described herein is an image forming apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processor causes a plurality of the diagnostic images to be formed in the longitudinal direction of the large-size recording medium. Claim 19 The invention described above is an image forming apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processor causes a plurality of diagnostic images to be formed on the large-size recording medium when the area of ​​the large-size recording medium is twice or more the area of ​​the diagnostic image. Claim 20 The invention described herein is a program for a computer to implement the following functions: acquiring a read image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus has been formed; acquiring from the read image an image reading portion, which is the portion where the diagnostic image has been read, and a portion of the non-formed reading portion, which is the portion of the recording medium on which the diagnostic image has not been formed that has been read; and outputting the acquired image reading portion and the portion thereof. Claim 21 The invention described herein is a program for a computer to implement the following functions: a function to acquire a read image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium having a formed portion on which a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus is formed and a non-formed portion on which the diagnostic image is not formed; and a function to edit the read image based on information about the non-formed read portion, which is the portion of the read image that reads the non-formed portion. Claim 22The invention described above provides a function for acquiring a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus, and, when the diagnostic image is formed on a large-size recording medium which is a recording medium of a specific size larger than the diagnostic image, a function for forming multiple diagnostic images on the large-size recording medium. formation Functions and programs to implement them on a computer The diagnostic images used in the diagnosis of the image forming apparatus are formed on small-size recording media, which are smaller in size than the large-size recording media. In such cases, each of the diagnostic images is formed on different small-size recording media. The forming function is configured such that, when multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording media, the diagnostic images formed on different small-size recording media are formed on a common large-size recording media. That is the case. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the invention of claim 1, it is possible to reduce the amount of information in the read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis in an image forming apparatus is formed, and to ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis performed on the image forming apparatus. According to the invention of claim 2, when acquiring a portion of the unformed reading portion, it is possible to acquire the portion of the unformed reading portion that is reading the edge of the recording medium. According to the invention of claim 3, when acquiring a portion of the unformed reading portion, it is possible to acquire the portion of the unformed reading portion that is reading the rear end of the recording medium. According to the invention of claim 4, based on information about the image forming apparatus that formed a diagnostic image on a recording medium, it is possible to determine a portion to be obtained from the unformed reading portion. According to the invention of claim 5, a portion to be acquired from the unformed reading portion can be determined based on information that identifies the model of the image forming apparatus or information about a malfunction that occurred in the image forming apparatus. According to the invention of claim 6, when the image reading portion and the portion are output separately, it becomes easier to manage the image reading portion and the portion. According to the invention of claim 7, it becomes easier to manage the image reading portion and the portion compared to a case where common identification information cannot be associated with each of the image reading portion and the portion. According to the invention of claim 8, compared to a case where common identification information is not associated with each of the image reading portion and the portion, it becomes easier to manage the image reading portion and the portion, and compared to a case where the common identification information is not different for each recording medium, it becomes easier to understand the correspondence between the recording medium and the image reading portion and the portion. According to the invention of claim 9, when the size of the read image is the size of the smallest recording medium capable of forming a diagnostic image, the process of acquiring only a portion of the image can be prevented. According to the invention of claim 10, it is possible to reduce the amount of information in the read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis in an image forming apparatus is formed, and to ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis performed on the image forming apparatus. According to the invention of claim 11, if the information regarding the unformed reading portion does not include information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion, the amount of information in the read image can be reduced compared to the case where information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion is included. According to the invention of claim 12, if the information regarding the unformed reading portion includes information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion, the entire reading image can be output to an external device. According to the invention of claim 13, if the information regarding the unformed reading portion includes information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion, the portion of the read image in which the diagnostic image is read, and a portion of the unformed reading portion, can be output to an external device. According to the invention of claim 14, it is possible to reduce the amount of information in the read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis in an image forming apparatus is formed, and to ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis performed on the image forming apparatus. According to the invention of claim 15, it is possible to reduce the amount of information in the read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis in an image forming apparatus is formed, and to ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis performed on the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, when multiple diagnostic images are formed on a large-sized recording medium, the diagnostic images that would be formed on each of the different small-sized recording mediums can be formed on this large-sized recording medium. According to the invention of claim 16, when a plurality of diagnostic images are formed on a large-sized recording medium, one diagnostic image and another diagnostic image different from this one diagnostic image can be formed on this large-sized recording medium. Claim 17 According to the invention, a plurality of mutually different diagnostic images can be formed on a large-sized recording medium. Claim 18 According to the invention, a plurality of diagnostic images can be formed side by side in the longitudinal direction of a large-sized recording medium. Claim 19 According to the invention, when the area of a large-sized recording medium is at least twice the area of a diagnostic image, a plurality of diagnostic images can be formed on this large-sized recording medium. Claim 20 According to the invention, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in the amount of information of a read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis of an image forming apparatus is formed, and ensuring the accuracy of diagnosis performed on this image forming apparatus. Claim 21 According to the invention, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in the amount of information of a read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis of an image forming apparatus is formed, and ensuring the accuracy of diagnosis performed on this image forming apparatus. Claim 22 According to the invention, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in the amount of information of a read image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used for diagnosis of an image forming apparatus is formed, and ensuring the accuracy of diagnosis performed on this image forming apparatus Furthermore, when multiple diagnostic images are formed on a large-sized recording medium, the diagnostic images that would be formed on each of the different small-sized recording mediums can be formed on this large-sized recording medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of an information processing system. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of the hardware of an information processing apparatus provided in an image forming apparatus. [Figure 3]This is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates the processing performed by the CPU installed in the image forming apparatus. [Figure 5] Figures (A) to (C) illustrate the processes performed by the CPU installed in the image forming apparatus. [Figure 6] (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating other processing examples. [Figure 7] (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating other processing examples. [Figure 8] This figure shows another example of read image data. [Figure 9] This figure shows another example of read image data. [Figure 10] (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating other processing examples for read image data. [Figure 11] This figure shows another example of processing. [Figure 12] This diagram shows another example of chart paper. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows an example of information processing system 1. The information processing system 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses 100 and a server device 200, which is an example of an external device connected to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses 100 via a communication line 190. In this embodiment, the server device 200 performs diagnostics on the image forming apparatuses 100. Note that Figure 1 shows one of the multiple image forming apparatuses 100.

[0009] The image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an image forming unit 100A, which is an example of an image forming means for forming an image on paper, which is an example of a recording medium. The image formation on the paper by the image forming unit 100A is performed using, for example, an inkjet method or an electrophotographic method. However, the image formation on the paper by the image forming unit 100A is not limited to an inkjet method or an electrophotographic method; other methods may also be used. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 has an information processing device 100B, which performs various processes on the image forming apparatus 100, as described below.

[0010] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100B installed in the image forming apparatus 100. This information processing device 100B installed in the image forming apparatus 100 is implemented by a computer. The information processing device 100B includes an arithmetic processing unit 11 that performs digital arithmetic processing according to a program, and a secondary storage unit 12 on which files and the like are recorded. The secondary storage unit 12 is implemented using existing information storage devices such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), semiconductor memory, or magnetic tape.

[0011] The arithmetic processing unit 11 is equipped with a CPU 11a, which is an example of a processor. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 11 includes RAM 11b, which is used as working memory for the CPU 11a, and ROM 11c, which stores programs executed by the CPU 11a. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 11 includes a non-volatile memory 11d that is rewritable and can retain data even if the power supply is interrupted, and an interface unit 11e that controls various parts such as the communication unit connected to the arithmetic processing unit 11.

[0012] The non-volatile memory 11d consists of, for example, SRAM or flash memory backed up by a battery. The secondary storage unit 12 stores files and other data, as well as programs executed by the arithmetic processing unit 11. In this embodiment, each process is executed by the CPU 11a provided in the arithmetic processing unit 11 reading a program stored in the secondary storage unit 12, etc.

[0013] The program executed by the CPU 11a can be provided to the information processing device 100B while stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape, magnetic disk, etc.), an optical recording medium (optical disk, etc.), a magneto-optical recording medium, or semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by the CPU 11a may be provided to the information processing device 100B using communication means such as the Internet.

[0014] In this specification, "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, including general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and specialized processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.). Furthermore, the operation of the processor may not be performed by a single processor, but may be performed by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Also, the order of the processor's operations is not limited to the order described in this embodiment, and may be changed. Of the processes described below, those performed by the image forming apparatus 100 are carried out by a CPU 11a, which is an example of a processor provided in the image forming apparatus 100.

[0015] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, as described above, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an image forming unit 100A that forms an image on a sheet of paper P, which is an example of a recording medium. In this embodiment, when the paper P passes through the image forming unit 100A, one side of the paper P faces the image forming unit 100A as it passes through. At this time, the image forming unit 100A forms an image on the paper P.

[0016] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an image reading device 130, which is an example of an image reading means for reading an image formed on a recording medium such as paper P. This image reading device 130 is a so-called scanner that has a paper transport function P. The image reading device 130 includes a light source that emits light to irradiate the paper P, and a light receiving unit such as a CCD that receives the reflected light from the paper P. In this embodiment, the read image data described later is generated based on the reflected light received by this light receiving unit.

[0017] In the example shown in Figure 3, an image reading device 130 is provided on top of the image forming apparatus 100. The image reading device 130 sequentially reads the paper P set by the user. The installation configuration of the image reading device 130 is not limited to this; the image reading device 130 may also be installed inside the image forming apparatus 100 and on the transport path of the paper P. In this case, the paper P on which images have been formed by the image forming unit 100A passes through the image reading device 130 in sequence, and each image on the paper P is read sequentially as it passes through.

[0018] Furthermore, each image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an operation reception unit 132 that receives operations from the user. This operation reception unit 132 is composed of a so-called touch panel. The operation reception unit 132 displays information to the user and accepts operations performed by the user. Furthermore, the display of information to the user and the acceptance of user operations are not limited to being performed by a single operation reception unit 132, as in this embodiment; the operation reception unit and the information display unit may be provided separately.

[0019] Each of the image forming apparatus 100 has an information transmission function that transmits information to the server device 200. In this embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 100 is being diagnosed, first the image forming unit 100A is operated to form a chart image on the paper P. This generates a chart sheet CP, which is a sheet of paper P on which a chart image (not shown in Figure 1), an example of a diagnostic image, is formed, as indicated by the reference numeral 1A in Figure 1. The chart image is an image used for diagnosis by the image forming unit 100A provided in the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, a chart sheet CP, which is a sheet of paper P on which this chart image used for diagnosis is formed, is generated.

[0020] Once the chart paper CP is generated, an image reading device 130, as an example of an image reading means, is used to read the chart paper CP on which the chart image has been formed, as shown by reference numeral 1B in Figure 1. This generates read image data as an example of a read image obtained by reading the chart paper CP.

[0021] In this embodiment, the read image data is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100 to the server device 200 and stored in the server device 200. The server device 200 performs a diagnosis of the image forming apparatus 100 and the image reading apparatus 130 based on this read image data. Furthermore, a maintenance worker performing maintenance on the image forming apparatus 100 accesses the server device 200, refers to the read image data stored in the server device 200 and the results of the diagnosis performed by the server device 200, and performs a diagnosis on the image forming apparatus 100 and the image reading device 130.

[0022] Subsequently, in this embodiment, the setting values ​​set for the image forming unit 100A of the image forming apparatus 100 are changed automatically or manually as needed. In other words, the setting values ​​related to image forming are changed to new setting values ​​as needed. As a result, the image forming unit 100A of the image forming apparatus 100 is adjusted, thereby improving the quality of the formed image.

[0023] Figures 4 and 5(A) to (C) illustrate the processes performed by the CPU 11a installed in the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, an A4-sized chart image, indicated by reference numeral 4A in Figure 4, is pre-stored in the secondary storage unit 12 (see Figure 2) of the image forming apparatus 100. More specifically, image data of an A4-sized chart image is pre-stored in the secondary storage unit 12.

[0024] In this processing example, the A4-sized chart image is formed on A3-sized paper by the image forming apparatus 100 (see Figure 1), thereby generating an A3-sized chart sheet CP, as indicated by reference numeral 4B in Figure 4. In this example, an A4-sized chart image is formed on an A3-sized sheet of paper P, generating an A3-sized chart sheet CP. In this case, the chart paper CP is provided with a formed portion 21 on which a chart image is formed and a non-formed portion 22 on which no chart image is formed.

[0025] Next, in this embodiment, the A3-sized chart paper CP on which the chart image is formed is read by the image reading device 130 (see Figure 1). As a result, as shown in Figure 5(A), read image data 5B is generated by reading the A3-sized chart paper CP. When the read image data 5B is generated, the CPU 11a (see Figure 2) located in the information processing device 100B acquires this read image data 5B.

[0026] When CPU 11a acquires the read image data 5B, it determines whether the size of the chart paper CP identified by this read image data 5B is larger than a predetermined size. This predetermined size could be, for example, A4 size. Then, if the CPU 11a determines that the size of the chart paper CP is larger than a predetermined size, it crops the image and obtains the image reading portion 42, which is the part of the chart image being read, from the read image data 5B, as shown in Figure 5(B). Furthermore, the CPU 11a extracts an image and obtains a portion 45 of the unformed reading portion 44, which is the part of the unformed portion 22 (see Figure 4) that is read from the read image data 5B.

[0027] In this embodiment, if the size of the chart paper CP identified by the read image data 5B is less than or equal to a predetermined size, the process of acquiring the image read portion 42 and portion 45 from the read image data 5B is not performed. Specifically, if the size of the chart paper CP identified by the read image data 5B is A4 size or smaller, the process of acquiring the image read portion 42 and partial portion 45 from the read image data 5B is not performed. In this case, the image data 5B obtained by the image reading device 130 is transmitted to the server device 200 in its original size.

[0028] Subsequently, the CPU 11a generates a composite image 60 by combining the acquired image reading portion 42 and a portion 45, as shown in Figure 5(C). Next, the CPU 11a outputs the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45. Specifically, when outputting the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45, the CPU 11a outputs the generated composite image 60. As a result, the composite image 60 is output to the server device 200. In other words, the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 are output to the server device 200.

[0029] In addition, the above describes the case in which the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 are acquired when the size of the chart paper CP, which is identified by the read image data 5B, exceeds a specific size of A4. By the way, not limited to this, if the size of the chart paper CP identified by the read image data 5B is larger than the size of the smallest paper size on which a chart image can be formed, the process of acquiring the image read portion 42 and a portion 45 may also be performed.

[0030] In this processing example, the minimum size of paper P on which a chart image can be formed is A4 size. Also, in this processing example, the size of the chart paper CP, which is identified by the read image data 5B, is A3 size, which is larger than A4 size. In this case, the CPU 11a obtains the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 from the read image data 5B.

[0031] On the other hand, if the size of the chart paper CP identified by the read image data 5B is the minimum size mentioned above, the CPU 11a does not perform the process of acquiring the image reading portion 42 and the partial portion 45, but outputs the read image data 5B as is. For example, if the chart image is formed on an A4-sized sheet of paper P, and the size of the chart paper CP, as identified by the read image data 5B, is A4 size, the CPU 11a does not perform the process of acquiring the image reading portion 42 and the partial portion 45. In this case, the CPU 11a outputs the read image data 5B as is. In this case, the read image data 5B obtained by the image reading device 130 is transmitted to the server device 200 in its original size.

[0032] When CPU 11a acquires a portion 45, it acquires the portion of the unformed reading portion 44 (see Figure 5(A)) that is reading the edge T of the chart paper CP (see Figure 4) as the portion 45. The portion 45 shown in Figure 5(B) is the part of the non-formed reading portion 44 that reads the edge T (see Figure 4) of the chart paper CP. In this embodiment, when acquiring a portion 45 from the unformed reading portion 44, the portion that is reading this end T is acquired.

[0033] More specifically, in this embodiment, the CPU 11a acquires the portion of the unformed reading portion 44 that reads the rear end KT (see Figure 4) of the chart paper CP as a portion 45. In this embodiment, when the image forming unit 100A (see Figure 3) forms a chart image on the paper P, the chart image is formed on the leading edge ST side in the transport direction of the paper P, and an unformed portion 22 (see Figure 4) is created on the trailing edge KT side in the transport direction of the paper P. The CPU 11a acquires the portion of the unformed reading portion 44 (see Figure 5(A)) obtained by reading the unformed portion 22 as a portion 45, which is the portion of the rear end KT of the chart paper CP that is being read.

[0034] When CPU 11a acquires the read image data 5B (see Figure 5(A)), it analyzes this read image data 5B and, for example, identifies the image reading portion 42, which is the part of the chart image that is being read, and the unformed reading portion 44, which is the part of the unformed portion 22 that is being read, based on the density value of each pixel, etc. Then, the CPU 11a identifies the aforementioned portion 45 from the identified unformed reading portion 44, which is the portion that reads the rear end KT.

[0035] Next, the CPU 11a extracts the image data from the read image data 5B to obtain the image read portion 42 and a portion 45, as shown in Figure 5(B). Then, based on the obtained image read portion 42 and portion 45, the CPU 11a generates a composite image 60, as shown in Figure 5(C), and outputs this composite image 60. In this embodiment, the composite image 60 is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100 to the server device 200.

[0036] Furthermore, the identification of the image reading portion 42 (see Figure 5(A)) and the unformed reading portion 44 may be based on information that is attached to the chart paper CP and becomes included in the reading image data 5B obtained when this chart paper CP is read. Specifically, in this case, for example, when a chart image is formed on paper P to generate chart paper CP, code images such as one-dimensional barcodes and two-dimensional barcodes are formed on this chart paper CP along with the chart image. The code image should include location information, which is information about the position of the chart image. More specifically, the code image should include information indicating the positional relationship between the code image and the chart image.

[0037] In this case, the CPU 11a analyzes the code image contained in the read image data 5B and obtains the information indicating the positional relationship described above, which is contained in this code image. Then, the CPU 11a identifies the position of the image reading portion 42 based on the information indicating this positional relationship and the position of the code image contained in the read image data 5B. Furthermore, the CPU 11a identifies the position of the unformed reading portion 44 based on the identified position of the image reading portion 42. Then, as described above, the CPU 11a obtains the identified image reading portion 42 from the read image data 5B, and also obtains a portion 45 from the identified unformed reading portion 44.

[0038] When the processing shown in Figure 5 is performed, the amount of information transmitted to the server device 200 can be reduced compared to when the entire portion of the read image data 5B is transmitted to the server device 200. Furthermore, when performing the processing shown in Figure 5, the image data read from the rear end KT of the chart paper CP, which is prone to being affected by malfunctions in the image forming unit 100A, is transmitted to the server device 200. The server device 200 and maintenance personnel perform a diagnosis of the image forming apparatus 100 and the image reading apparatus 130 based on the read image data for the image reading section 42 and the read image data for the partial section 45.

[0039] Here, for example, if a user forms an A4-sized chart image on a larger A3-sized sheet of paper P, or if the image forming apparatus 100 only accommodates A3-sized sheets of paper P, the image data 5B read from the chart paper CP will include the unformed reading portion 44. In other words, in this case, the read image data 5B will include the unformed read portion 44 obtained by reading the blank area of ​​the chart paper CP. In this case, if the read image data 5B is sent directly to the server device 200, the read image data 5B containing information unnecessary for the diagnosis of the image forming apparatus 100 will be sent to the server device 200.

[0040] In this case, if the unformed reading portion 44 is deleted and the unformed reading portion 44 is not sent to the server device 200, the amount of information sent to the server device 200 will be reduced. On the other hand, in this case, the read image data obtained by reading the rear end KT of the chart paper CP will not be transmitted to the server device 200. In this case, the accuracy of the diagnosis for the image forming apparatus 100 is reduced compared to when the read image data obtained by reading the rear end KT is transmitted to the server device 200.

[0041] In contrast, in this embodiment, the unformed reading portion 44 is basically not transmitted, while the portion 45 included in this unformed reading portion 44 is transmitted to the server device 200. In this case, the amount of information transmitted to the server device 200 can be reduced while ensuring the accuracy of the diagnosis performed by the image forming apparatus 100.

[0042] In this embodiment, as described above, the CPU 11a outputs the image reading portion 42 and the portion 45, and generates a composite image 60 by combining the image reading portion 42 and the portion 45, as shown in Figure 5(C). The CPU 11a outputs this composite image 60 when it comes to outputting the image reading portion 42 and the portion 45. In other words, in this embodiment, the CPU 11a generates a single composite image 60, which is an image obtained by associating the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 with each other, and outputs this single composite image 60. In this case, this single composite image 60 is sent to the server device 200.

[0043] In this embodiment, when multiple chart sheets CP are read by the image reading device 130, the CPU 11a associates the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 obtained from each chart sheet CP, and generates one composite image 60 for each chart sheet CP.

[0044] Alternatively, instead of generating the composite image 60, the CPU 11a may, for example, associate common identification information with each of the acquired image reading portions 42 and 45. In this case, the CPU 11a outputs the image reading section 42 and the section 45, each associated with the common identification information. In this case, the image reading portion 42 and portion 45, each associated with common identification information, are transmitted to the server device 200.

[0045] Furthermore, when the CPU 11a associates common identification information with the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 acquired for each chart paper CP, it makes the identification information different for each chart paper CP. In this case, the CPU 11a associates common identification information with the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 acquired for each chart paper CP, and makes this common identification information associated with the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 different for each chart paper CP.

[0046] It is also conceivable that, based on the read image data 5B obtained for each of the multiple chart sheets CP, the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 are acquired for each chart sheet CP. In this case, the CPU 11a associates common identification information with the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 acquired for each chart paper CP, and makes this common identification information associated with the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 different for each chart paper CP.

[0047] Furthermore, in the above description, the portion 45 that transmits the read image data to the server device 200 is the portion that reads the rear end KT of the chart paper CP, but the portion 45 may also be the portion that reads other parts of the chart paper CP. Specifically, for example, the portion of the non-formed reading portion 44 (see Figure 5(A)) that reads the side edge SK of the chart paper CP (see Figure 4) may be designated as a portion 45, and this portion 45 that reads the side edge SK may be transmitted to the server device 200. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5(B), when the image reading portion 42 and a portion 45 are separated, or as shown in Figure 10(B) later, when the portion of the unformed reading portion 44 that is reading the image is separated from the portion other than this portion, position information and rotation information of this portion may be assigned to this portion, regardless of whether or not the images are combined. In addition, the position information and rotation information assigned to this portion may be transmitted to the server device 200 together with this portion, in a state where they are associated with this portion.

[0048] In addition, the CPU 11a may acquire information about the image forming apparatus 100 that formed the chart image on the chart paper CP (hereinafter referred to as "apparatus information"), and based on this apparatus information, determine a portion 45 to be acquired from the unformed reading portion 44. In some cases, it is preferable to make the portion 45 to be acquired different depending on the image forming apparatus 100. When a portion 45 to be acquired from the unformed reading portion 44 is determined based on the apparatus information, this portion 45 will differ depending on the image forming apparatus 100.

[0049] The CPU 11a acquires device information, such as model identification information which identifies the model of the image forming apparatus 100, and malfunction information which is information about malfunctions that have occurred in the image forming apparatus 100 in the past. Then, the CPU 11a determines the portion 45 to be obtained from the unformed reading portion 44 based on this model information or malfunction information.

[0050] Depending on the model of the image forming apparatus 100, the position of the image that appears within the non-formed portion 22 (see Figure 4) may vary. When a portion 45 is determined based on the model information of the image forming apparatus 100, the likelihood increases that the read image data obtained by reading an image whose generation position differs depending on the model of the image forming apparatus 100 will be transmitted to the server device 200 in a form that is included in the portion 45. Furthermore, if a portion 45 is determined based on information about past malfunctions in the image forming apparatus 100, the likelihood increases that the read image data obtained by reading the image that appears in the unformed portion 22 due to this malfunction will be transmitted to the server device 200 in a form included in the portion 45.

[0051] In addition, information about the chart paper CP may be obtained, and based on the information about the chart paper CP, the above-mentioned portion 45 to be obtained from the unformed reading portion 44 may be determined. Specifically, for example, information about the size of the chart paper CP may be obtained, and based on the size of the chart paper CP, the portion 45 to be obtained from the unformed reading portion 44 may be determined.

[0052] Depending on the size of the chart paper CP, the position of the image that appears within the unformed portion 22 due to a malfunction of the image forming apparatus 100 may change. If a portion 45 is determined based on the size of the chart paper CP, the position of the portion 45 will change in accordance with the change in the size of the chart paper CP. In this case, as described above, there is a high probability that the read image data obtained by reading the image that appears in the unformed portion 22 due to the malfunction will be transmitted to the server device 200 in a form that is included in a portion 45. In other words, in this case, the portion 45 is more likely to include the reading of an image that appears within the unformed portion 22 due to a malfunction.

[0053] Figures 6(A), (B), and 7(A), (B) illustrate other processing examples. In this processing example, as described above, the first step is to read the chart paper CP, which has an A4-sized chart image formed on an A3-sized sheet of paper P. This generates the A3-sized read image data 5B shown in Figure 6(A).

[0054] More specifically, in this example, the same process as shown in Figure 4 is performed, and first, an A3-sized chart paper CP is formed, having a formed portion 21 on which a chart image is formed and a non-formed portion 22 on which no chart image is formed. Then, this chart paper CP is read by the image reading device 130. This generates A3-sized read image data 5B, as shown in Figure 6(A). In this example, the CPU 11a acquires the read image data 5B shown in Figure 6(A). Specifically, in this case as well, the CPU 11a acquires read image data 5B, which includes the image reading portion 42 and the unformed reading portion 44.

[0055] In this example, the CPU 11a edits the read image data 5B based on information about the unformed read portion 44 of the read image data 5B. If the CPU 11a does not have information indicating that an image has been formed in the unformed reading portion 44, it performs the process of deleting the unformed reading portion 44 included in the read image data 5B, as shown in Figure 6(B). In this case, when the read image data 5B is output to the server device 200, the unformed read portion 44 is not output.

[0056] In this explanation, we have described the case in which all of the unformed reading portions 44 included in the read image data 5B are deleted. However, it is also possible to perform a process to delete only a portion of the unformed reading portions 44, thereby reducing the amount of unformed reading portions 44 included in the read image data 5B. For example, the process may be carried out to leave the portion corresponding to the above-mentioned part 45 (see Figure 5(B)) and delete the portion of the unformed read portion 44 other than the portion corresponding to this part 45. In this case, the amount of information of the unformed read portion 44 included in the read image data 5B transmitted to the server device 200 will be reduced.

[0057] On the other hand, if an image is formed in the unformed portion 22 (see Figure 4) of the chart paper CP, and the information about the unformed reading portion 44 includes information indicating that an image has been formed, as shown in Figure 7(A), the CPU 11a does not perform the process of deleting the unformed reading portion 44, nor does it perform the process of reducing the unformed reading portion 44. In this case, as shown in Figure 7(B), the read image data 5B remains in its original state. In this case, the entire read image data 5B is output to the server device 200. In other words, in this case, both the image reading section 42, which reads the chart image, and the unformed reading section 44, which reads the unformed section 22, are output to the server device 200.

[0058] In this processing example, the CPU 11a first analyzes the unformed reading portion 44 of the read image data 5B (see Figure 7(A)) to detect the state of this unformed reading portion 44. In this processing example, if the state of the unformed reading portion 44 is in the state of reading an image, as shown in Figure 7(A), the entire read image data 5B is sent to the server device 200. On the other hand, if the state of the unformed reading portion 44 is not in the state of reading an image, as shown in Figure 6(A), then only the image reading portion 42 of the read image data 5B is transmitted to the server device 200.

[0059] The CPU 11a analyzes the unformed reading portion 44 (see Figure 7(A)) to determine whether or not an image has been formed in the unformed portion 22 (see Figure 4). The CPU 11a analyzes the unformed reading portion 44 to determine whether an image composed of streaks caused by a malfunction of the image forming unit 100A, an image composed of points occurring at regular intervals (see Figure 8), or an image composed of dirt occurring on the rear end KT of the chart paper CP is formed in the unformed portion 22.

[0060] Then, if the CPU 11a determines that no image has been formed in the unformed portion 22, it deletes the unformed reading portion 44. In this case, the unformed reading portion 44 will not be output to the server device 200, and the amount of information output to the server device 200 will decrease.

[0061] On the other hand, if the CPU 11a determines that an image has been formed in the unformed portion 22, it does not perform the process of deleting the unformed reading portion 44. In this case, the read image data 5B covering the entire surface of the chart paper CP is sent to the server device 200. In other words, in this case, the entire read image data 5B is sent to the server device 200. In other words, in this case, both the image reading portion 42 and the unformed reading portion 44 are transmitted to the server device 200.

[0062] Here, the state of the unformed reading portion 44 is detected, for example, by referring to the pixel value of each pixel constituting the unformed reading portion 44. In other words, whether or not an image is formed in the unformed portion 22 is determined by referring to the pixel value of each pixel constituting the unformed reading portion 44. In this embodiment, if some pixel values ​​exceed a predetermined threshold, it is determined that an image has been formed in the unformed portion 22. Conversely, if none of the pixel values ​​exceed the predetermined threshold, it is determined that no image has been formed in the unformed portion 22.

[0063] Figure 9 shows another example of the read image data 5B. In this example shown in Figure 9, an image exists in the portion of the non-formed reading area 44 that is reading the rear end KT of the chart paper CP (see Figure 4). In this case, in this processing example, the unformed reading portion 44 is not deleted, and the entirety of the read image data 5B is sent to the server device 200.

[0064] Furthermore, even if the information about the unformed reading portion 44 includes information indicating that an image has been formed in the unformed portion 22, the CPU 11a may perform a process to delete a part of the unformed reading portion 44. Specifically, the CPU 11a may, for example, as shown in (A) and (B) of Figure 10 (a figure showing other processing examples for read image data 5B), perform a process of deleting the parts of the unformed reading portion 44 that have been read, while retaining the part that has been read from the unformed portion 22. In this case, the server device 200 will output the portion of the non-formed reading section 44 that has been read, while it will not output the portion of the non-formed reading section 44 that has not been read.

[0065] When the above processing is performed, the read image data containing images resulting from a malfunction in the image forming apparatus 100 will be included in the read image data 5B. In this case, the server and maintenance personnel perform a diagnosis of the image forming apparatus 100 and the image reading apparatus 130 based on the read image data 5B, which contains the read image data that is reading the image caused by the malfunction. On the other hand, if no image is formed in the non-formed portion 22, only the image reading portion 42, which is the image data read for the chart image, is sent to the server device 200. In this case, the amount of information sent to the server device 200 is reduced.

[0066] Figure 11 shows another example of processing. This example describes the editing process for chart images used to generate chart paper (CP). In this example, the CPU 11a first obtains a chart image (see reference numeral 11A) stored in the secondary memory unit 12. More specifically, the CPU 11a first obtains an image file, which will serve as the basis for the chart image, stored in the secondary memory unit 12. Then, if the acquired chart image is to be formed on a large-size paper P, which is a specific size of paper P larger than the acquired chart image, the CPU 11a ensures that multiple chart images are formed on the large-size paper P.

[0067] More specifically, in this case, the CPU 11a ensures that one chart image, which is the acquired chart image, and another chart image, which is different from this first chart image, are formed on the large-size paper P, as shown in Figure 11. More specifically, in this case, the CPU 11a reads and acquires another chart image (see reference numeral 11B) from the secondary storage unit 12, in addition to the first chart image obtained from the secondary storage unit 12. The CPU 11a then outputs this one chart image and the other chart image to the image forming unit 100A (see Figure 3) so that this one chart image and the other chart image are formed on a large-size paper P.

[0068] In this example, one chart image is different from the other chart images, and the CPU 11a ensures that multiple chart images are formed on a large-size sheet of paper P, and that multiple chart images that are different from each other are formed on this large-size sheet of paper P. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when one chart image and another chart image are formed on a large-size paper P, the CPU 11a arranges the one chart image and the other chart image so that they are aligned in the longitudinal direction of the large-size paper P.

[0069] In this embodiment, if each chart image is formed on a small-sized paper P (not shown) which is smaller than the large-sized paper P described above, it is formed on each of two different small-sized paper Ps. In contrast, in this embodiment, when a chart image is formed on a large-sized sheet of paper P, the chart images formed on each of the small-sized sheets of paper P, and a plurality of these chart images, are formed on a single common large-sized sheet of paper P.

[0070] To illustrate with a concrete example, the processing example shown in Figure 11 illustrates a case where a chart image of A4 size is formed on a larger A3 size sheet of paper P. In this case, the chart image is edited so that the image data that forms the basis of the chart image created on the large-size paper P includes multiple chart images. Specifically, in this case, the image data that forms the basis of the chart image created on the large-size paper P includes one chart image and other chart images. In this case, one A3-sized chart sheet contains one chart image and another chart image, forming multiple chart images.

[0071] In this embodiment, for example, when an A4-sized chart image is generated on a large A3-sized sheet of paper P, which is an example of a specific size, the CPU 11a ensures that multiple A4-sized chart images are formed on the A3-sized sheet of paper P.

[0072] More specifically, in this embodiment, the CPU 11a ensures that multiple chart images are formed on the large-size paper P when the area of ​​the large-size paper P is twice or more the area of ​​the chart image. In this embodiment, the area of ​​the large A3-sized paper P is twice the area of ​​the A4-sized chart image, and in this case, the CPU 11a ensures that multiple A4-sized chart images are formed on this large A3-sized paper P. In this case, multiple chart images are formed on a single large-size sheet of paper P without any reduction in the size of each individual chart image.

[0073] When performing the above processing, the amount of information transmitted to the server device 200 can be reduced compared to when each A4-sized chart image is formed on each A3-sized sheet of paper P. In other words, when the above processing is performed, the amount of read image data 5B transmitted to the server device 200 can be reduced compared to when one A4-sized chart image is formed on each of the A3-sized sheets of paper P.

[0074] In this process shown in Figure 11, the read image data 5B (not shown in Figure 11) does not include the unformed read portion 44 mentioned above, and as a result of the removal of the unformed read portion 44, the amount of information transmitted to the server device 200 is reduced. In this process shown in Figure 11, the total amount of information sent to the server device 200 is half the total amount of information that would be required to create one A4-sized chart image on each of the A3-sized sheets of paper P.

[0075] Here, for example, when forming a single A4-sized chart image on a single A3-sized sheet of paper P, one possible configuration is to delete the unformed reading portion 44 and then send the read image data 5B to the server device 200. However, in this case, the size of the read image data 5B transmitted to the server device 200 becomes smaller, making it difficult for the server device 200 to detect images that extend along the longitudinal direction and have periodicity, such as the image indicated by reference numeral 12A in Figure 12 (a diagram showing another example of chart paper).

[0076] When a chart paper CP is generated while there is a malfunction in the image forming section 100A of the image forming apparatus 100, an image that is elongated and periodic along the longitudinal direction of the chart paper CP may be formed, as shown in Figure 12. If the process of deleting the unformed reading portion 44 is performed, a part of the image will be missing, making it difficult for the server device 200 to detect this periodic image. In contrast, the processing in this embodiment prevents the loss of periodic images, making it easier for the server device 200 to detect these images.

[0077] Furthermore, when the unformed reading portion 44 is deleted and the read image data 5B is sent to the server device 200, the image described above, which may appear on the trailing edge KT of the paper P, will not be included in the read image data 5B. In contrast, in the process shown in Figure 11, when an image is generated at the rear end KT of the chart paper CP, the image data of this image is not deleted but is included in the image data 5B. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 5B...Read image data, 11a...CPU, 21...Formation part, 22...Non-formation part, 42...Image reading part, 44...Non-formation reading part, 45...Part, 60...Composite image, 100...Image forming apparatus, 100A...Image forming unit, 100B...Information processing apparatus, 130...Image reading device, CP...Chart paper, KT...Rear end, ST...Front end, T...End, P...Paper

Claims

1. It is an information processing device equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, The image obtained is a read image, which is obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus has been formed. From the read image, an image reading portion is obtained, which is the portion that reads the diagnostic image, and a portion of the non-formed reading portion is obtained, which is the portion that reads the non-formed portion of the recording medium in which the diagnostic image is not formed. The acquired image reading portion and the portion are output. Information processing device.

2. The aforementioned processor, Of the non-formed reading portion, the portion that reads the edge of the recording medium is acquired as the portion. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. When the diagnostic image is formed on the recording medium in the image forming apparatus, the diagnostic image is formed on the leading end side in the transport direction of the recording medium, and the unformed portion is generated on the trailing end side in the transport direction of the recording medium. The aforementioned processor, Of the unformed reading portion, the portion that reads the rear end of the recording medium is acquired as the portion. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned processor, Device information is obtained, which is information about the image forming apparatus that formed the diagnostic image on the recording medium. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which determines the portion to be obtained from the non-formed reading portion based on the device information.

5. The aforementioned processor, As the device information, we acquire either model identification information, which is information that identifies the model of the image forming apparatus, or malfunction information, which is information about a malfunction that occurred in the image forming apparatus. Based on the aforementioned model identification information or the aforementioned malfunction information, the portion to be obtained from the unformed reading portion is determined. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned processor, A composite image is generated by combining the image reading portion and the portion. In outputting the image reading portion and the portion, the composite image is output. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned processor, A common identification information is associated with each of the acquired image reading portion and portion. In outputting the image reading portion and the portion, the image reading portion and the portion to which the common identification information is associated are output. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned processor, The common identification information is associated with the image reading portion and the portion acquired for each recording medium, and the common identification information associated with the image reading portion and the portion is different for each recording medium. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned processor, If the size of the read image is larger than the size of the smallest recording medium capable of forming the diagnostic image, the image read portion and the portion are acquired, and the acquired image read portion and portion are output. If the size of the read image is the minimum size, the process of acquiring the read portion and the partial portion of the image is not performed, and the read image is output. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

10. It is an information processing device equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, A read image is obtained by reading a recording medium having a formed portion on which a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus is formed, and a non-formed portion on which no diagnostic image is formed. Based on the information regarding the unformed reading portion of the read image, which is the portion where the unformed portion is read, the read image is edited. Information processing device.

11. The aforementioned processor, If the information regarding the unformed reading portion does not include information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion, delete the unformed reading portion included in the reading image or reduce the amount of the unformed reading portion included in the reading image. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The aforementioned processor, The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein if the information regarding the unformed reading portion includes information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion, the apparatus does not perform a process to delete the unformed reading portion and does not perform a process to reduce the unformed reading portion.

13. The aforementioned processor, If the information regarding the unformed reading portion includes information indicating that an image is formed in the unformed portion, then the portion of the unformed reading portion other than the portion from which the image is being read is deleted. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10.

14. This is an image forming apparatus that forms images on a recording medium. An image forming apparatus comprising: an image forming means for forming a diagnostic image on a recording medium used for diagnosis in the image forming apparatus; a reading means for reading the recording medium on which the diagnostic image has been formed; and an information processing device for processing the read image obtained by the reading means, wherein the information processing device includes the information processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. An image forming apparatus comprising a processor and image forming means for forming an image on a recording medium, The aforementioned processor, A diagnostic image used for diagnosis in the aforementioned image forming apparatus is acquired. When a diagnostic image is formed on a large-size recording medium, which is a recording medium of a specific size larger than the aforementioned diagnostic image, multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium. It is an image forming apparatus, When each of the diagnostic images used in the diagnosis of the image forming apparatus is formed on a small-size recording medium which is a recording medium smaller than the large-size recording medium, each of the small-size recording media is different from the others. The aforementioned processor, When multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium, the diagnostic images formed on each of the multiple small-size recording mediums, which are different from each other, are formed on the common large-size recording medium. Image forming apparatus.

16. The aforementioned processor, When multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium, one diagnostic image, which is the acquired diagnostic image, and other diagnostic images different from the first diagnostic image are formed on the large-size recording medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 15.

17. The aforementioned processor, In order to form multiple diagnostic images on the large-size recording medium, the method is to form multiple diagnostic images that are different from each other on the large-size recording medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 15.

18. The aforementioned processor, Multiple diagnostic images are formed in a manner aligned along the longitudinal direction of the large-size recording medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 15.

19. The aforementioned processor, When the area of ​​the large-size recording medium is twice or more the area of ​​the diagnostic image, multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 15.

20. A function to acquire a read image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium on which a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus has been formed, A function to acquire from the read image an image reading portion which reads the diagnostic image, and a portion of the non-formed reading portion which reads the non-formed portion of the recording medium on which the diagnostic image is not formed. A function to output the acquired image reading portion and the portion thereof, A program to make a computer realize this.

21. A function to acquire a read image, which is an image obtained by reading a recording medium having a formed portion on which a diagnostic image used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus is formed and a non-formed portion on which no diagnostic image is formed. A function to edit the read image based on information about the unformed read portion of the read image, which is the portion where the unformed portion is read, A program to make a computer realize this.

22. A function to acquire diagnostic images used in the diagnosis of an image forming apparatus, When a diagnostic image is formed on a large-size recording medium, which is a recording medium of a specific size larger than the aforementioned diagnostic image, a forming function is provided to ensure that multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium. This is a program to make a computer realize this. When each of the diagnostic images used in the diagnosis of the image forming apparatus is formed on a small-size recording medium which is a recording medium smaller than the large-size recording medium, each of the small-size recording media is different from the others. The function that is formed is When multiple diagnostic images are formed on the large-size recording medium, the diagnostic images formed on each of the multiple small-size recording mediums, which are different from each other, are formed on the common large-size recording medium. program.

Images