Inspection device, its control method, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a technology that can suppress a decrease in inspection accuracy when, for example, the inspection settings for a preprinted sheet on which an image has been overprinted are configured using a print preview screen. [Solution] An inspection device for inspecting abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, comprising: a first acquisition unit for acquiring a printable image; a second acquisition unit for acquiring the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus; a third acquisition unit for acquiring an image of a preprinted sheet; a processing unit for processing the printable image according to the difference; and an output unit for outputting an inspection setting screen including the processed printable image and the image of the preprinted sheet.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus, a control method therefor, and a program. [Background Art]

[0002] Centered on the printing industry, digital printing technology based on electrophotography and the like, called print-on-demand, has become common. In addition, print-on-demand is increasingly used for Variable Data Print (VDP), in which images and characters to be printed are changed for each copy. In VDP, stain-free printing or printing of correct data is required.

[0003] Conventionally, in the inspection of the image quality of printed matter, it has been common for an operator to visually check the printed matter. For this reason, inspection results depend on the sensory evaluation by the operator, which may cause variations in inspection levels. In addition, the inspection time depends on the skill level of the operator, and since inspection relies on human labor, there is a limit to the reduction of inspection time. Accordingly, in recent years, automatic inspection apparatuses that automatically perform image quality inspection of printed matter have been devised.

[0004] Judgment by this automatic inspection apparatus is performed by comparing two types of data: original image data generated in the image forming apparatus is used as reference data, and scan data obtained by reading an image printed on recording paper with a sensor such as a scanner is used as inspection image data. The automatic inspection apparatus displays the reference data as a preview image on a display connected via a network or the like before starting printing. A user refers to this preview image to perform inspection settings such as inspection locations, inspection types, or inspection intensities for the printed image.

[0005] In this case, the recording paper used to print the original image data in the automated inspection system (hereinafter also referred to as the printed material) may be recording paper that has been pre-printed by another image forming machine (hereinafter also referred to as pre-printed paper). In such cases, since the reference data is the original image data generated within the image forming machine, the image already printed on the pre-printed paper is not included in the preview image. Furthermore, when printing the original image data onto the pre-printed paper, it is difficult to guarantee the accuracy of the printing position of the original image data in advance. For these reasons, even in image forming machines connected to an automated inspection system, the image forming machine first performs a test print by experimentally printing the original image data onto several pages of pre-printed paper to visually check the printing position, etc. After that, the inspection settings are configured, actual printing is performed, and then the printed sheets are inspected.

[0006] However, such test printing increases inspection workload. Therefore, in order to suppress the increase in inspection workload, Patent Document 1 proposes a method for displaying a preview by combining pre-printed paper image data and original document image data that have been acquired in advance. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-199205 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, it is difficult to reproduce in the preview image the distortion and positional misalignment that occur when an image is actually printed on preprint paper by the image forming apparatus. Therefore, for example, it is difficult to recognize in the preview screen that the ruled lines pre-printed on the preprint paper and the original image overprinted on the preprint paper overlap due to the positional misalignment of the original image's printing. Also, for example, information that would normally be outside the designated area for character inspection set on the preview image (such as the ruled lines printed on the preprint) may be included in the designated area due to the positional misalignment of the printing in the image forming apparatus. In such cases, misjudgment may occur in OCR inspection. Therefore, using such a preview screen to set inspection settings may reduce inspection accuracy.

[0009] The present invention has been made in view of at least one of the above-mentioned problems, and provides a technology that can suppress a decrease in inspection accuracy when the inspection settings for a preprint sheet on which an image has been overprinted are set using a print preview screen. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, An inspection device for inspecting abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, A first acquisition unit for acquiring images for printing, A second acquisition unit acquires the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. A third acquisition unit that acquires images of the preprint sheet, A processing unit that processes the printable image according to the difference, The system includes an output unit that outputs an inspection setting screen including the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet. It is an inspection device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, when performing inspection settings for a preprint sheet on which an image has been overprinted using a print preview screen, a technique capable of suppressing a decrease in inspection accuracy can be provided. [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS]

[0012] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram of an image inspection system according to an embodiment [Figure 2] Structural diagram of each device according to an embodiment [Figure 3] Hardware block diagram of each device according to an embodiment [Figure 4] Software block diagram of each device according to an embodiment [Figure 5] Flowchart of processing according to an embodiment [Figure 6] Diagram showing a display screen according to an embodiment [Figure 7] Diagram showing an image according to an embodiment [Figure 8] Diagram showing a display screen according to an embodiment [Figure 9] Flowchart of processing according to an embodiment [Figure 10] Flowchart of processing according to an embodiment [Figure 11] Flowchart of processing according to an embodiment [Figure 12] Diagram showing an image according to an embodiment [MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION]

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments 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. Although a plurality of features are described in the embodiments, not all of these plurality of features are essential to the invention, and the plurality of features may be arbitrarily combined. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0014] In the present specification, the term "image forming apparatus" broadly includes any apparatus that forms (records) an image on a recording material (recording medium), such as a single-function printer, a copying machine, a multifunction printer, and a commercial printing machine. Further, the image forming apparatus may be a system (image forming system) in which an image forming apparatus main body that forms an image on a recording material is connected with apparatuses such as a sheet processing apparatus and a sheet feeding apparatus.

[0015] <Embodiment> (System Configuration) An outline of an image inspection system 10 according to the present embodiment is described with reference to FIG. 1. In the following description, the image forming apparatus is also referred to as a multifunction machine, a multi-function peripheral, or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral).

[0016] The image inspection system 10 is configured to include an image forming apparatus 100, an inspection apparatus 200 (which is an example of an "inspection apparatus"), a finisher 300, and a PC (personal computer) 400. These apparatuses are connected to each other via a LAN 500. The image forming apparatus 100, the inspection apparatus 200, and the finisher 300 are connected so that media can be directly conveyed therebetween. In the following description, the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection apparatus 200, and the finisher 300 are collectively referred to as an automatic inspection apparatus.

[0017] The inspection apparatus 200 inspects whether there is any abnormality in printed materials sequentially conveyed from the image forming apparatus 100. Here, an abnormality reduces the quality of the printed material, and is, for example, a smudge caused by color material adhering to unintended locations during printing, or a color missing caused by insufficient color material adhering to intended locations.

[0018] Furthermore, the inspection device 200 inspects variable areas in variable printing that include variable areas whose external shape changes across multiple pages, such as one-dimensional codes like text strings or barcodes, or two-dimensional codes like QR codes (registered trademarks). The inspection device 200 performs data readability checks, for example, to check whether text strings or barcodes are readable. The inspection device 200 also performs data matching checks, for example, to compare the reading results of text strings or barcodes with the correct answer. The inspection device 200 also performs front-to-back consistency checks, for example, to check whether the reading results of data inspection areas set on the front and back sides match.

[0019] In other words, the inspection device 200 performs print image inspection to detect abnormalities in the image portion of the printed material, as well as data inspection including data readability inspection and data matching inspection. The inspection processing unit that performs print image inspection or data inspection does not necessarily have to be located inside the inspection device 200; for example, the inspection processing may be performed by an information processing device (not shown) acting as an inspection PC that is communicatively connected to the inspection device 200. In this embodiment, barcode inspection refers to inspection that can also inspect two-dimensional codes such as QR codes. Furthermore, the image inspection system 10 in this embodiment is configured to include at least an inspection device 200 that inspects printed materials.

[0020] The structures of the image forming apparatus 100, inspection apparatus 200, and finisher 300 will be explained using Figure 2. The image forming apparatus 100 is composed of image forming stations 101 to 104 for performing color printing in yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. Each of the image forming stations 101 to 104 performs an image forming method such as electrophotography or inkjet. However, the image forming method is not limited to these methods. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 may be composed of only an image forming station 104 that supports single-color printing, for example, black printing.

[0021] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is configured to include a paper feeder 114. The paper feeder 114 includes a paper feed stage and feeds recording sheets such as paper from paper cassette 105 or paper cassette 106 into the image forming apparatus 100. In this way, printing becomes possible in the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, it is assumed that pre-printed recording paper (preprinted paper) is loaded in paper cassette 105. It is also assumed that paper cassette 106 is loaded with ordinary recording paper (blank paper) of the same paper type and size as paper cassette 105. In this embodiment, the pre-printed paper loaded in the cassette is A4 size plain paper, but the paper type is not limited to this. Also, pre-printed recording paper (preprinted paper) is an example of a "pre-printed sheet".

[0022] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is composed of an intermediate transfer belt 108 and a paper transport path 109. The intermediate transfer belt 108 is rotatable, and colorants are transferred from image forming stations 101 to 104 to the rotated intermediate transfer belt 108. The colorants transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 108 are then transferred to the media being transported downstream on the paper transport path 109 at the contact point with the media.

[0023] The inspection device 200 is configured such that its internal paper transport path 109 connects to the paper transport path 109 of the image forming apparatus 100. Printed media are directly transported into the inspection device 200 via this paper transport path 109. The inspection device 200 also includes image sensors 201, which are positioned opposite each other across the paper transport path 109. The image sensors 201 capture images of both the front and back of the media on the paper transport path 109. The images captured by the image sensors 201 are used for registering and inspecting print sample images.

[0024] The finisher 300 is comprised of multiple paper discharge units (301, 302) connected to the inspection device 200. The finisher 300 can sort the inspected printed materials into the paper discharge units (301, 302) based on the inspection results. For example, printed materials that pass inspection are discharged to the paper discharge unit 301, and printed materials that fail inspection are discharged to the purging paper discharge unit 302.

[0025] The hardware blocks of each device will be explained using Figure 3. The image forming apparatus 100 consists of a network controller (network CONT) 121, a storage device 122, a CPU 123, a memory 124, an operation unit 125, an image processing unit 126, and a printing processing unit 127.

[0026] The network controller 121 includes a communication module and connects the image forming apparatus 100 to the LAN 500, controlling the communication of information. The processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 is realized by the CPU 123 reading a program stored in the storage device 122 into memory 124 and executing the program. The operation unit 125 displays information on the screen to accept input operations from the outside. The image processing unit 126 converts electronic image data (e.g., CIE-sRGB multi-level image data) into electronic image data for printing (e.g., CMYK halftone image). The printing processing unit 127 transfers the electronic image data for printing onto recording paper fed from the paper feeder 114 using image forming stations 101-104. Printing is performed in this manner.

[0027] The inspection device 200 comprises a network controller 221, a storage device 222, a CPU 223, memory 224, an operation unit 225, and a reading unit 226. The network controller 221 includes a communication module and connects the inspection device 200 to the LAN 500, controlling the communication of information. The processing performed by the inspection device 200 is realized by the CPU 223 reading a program stored in the storage device 222 into memory 224 and executing the program.

[0028] The operation unit 225 is, for example, a button or keyboard, and accepts user input. Alternatively, the operation unit 225 may be, for example, a touch panel display. In such a case, the operation unit 225 accepts user input and also functions as a display unit that displays the print sample and inspection setting screen described later. The screen displayed by the display unit is controlled by the CPU 223, and in this embodiment, the CPU 223 may also be referred to as the display control unit. The reading unit 226 includes an image sensor 201. The CPU 223 uses this reading unit 226 to read the recording paper transported along the paper transport path 109 and converts the read data into electronic image data (for example, RGB multi-level image data).

[0029] The PC400 issues print instructions to the image forming apparatus 100. The PC400 consists of a network controller 401, a storage device 402, a CPU 403, memory 404, and an operation unit 405. The network controller 401 consists of a communication module and connects the PC400 to the LAN 500, controlling the communication of information. The processing performed by the PC400 is realized when the CPU 403 reads a program stored in the storage device 402 into memory 404 and executes the program. The operation unit 405 consists of, for example, a mouse or keyboard (not shown) and enables program operation. The operation unit 405 also consists of, for example, a display (not shown) and enables screen display.

[0030] Figures 4(a) to 4(c) illustrate the block structure of the programs stored in the storage devices 122, 222, and 402 of each device. Figure 4(a) shows an example of the program stored in the storage device 122 of the image forming apparatus 100. Similarly, Figure 4(b) shows an example of the program stored in the storage device 222 of the inspection apparatus 200, and Figure 4(c) shows an example of the program stored in the storage device 402 of the PC 400. A detailed explanation of each program shown in Figures 4(a) to 4(c) will be provided later.

[0031] The inspection device 200 includes an operation unit 225, and the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 generates an HTML (HyperTerminalMarkupLanguage) file for display. This file can then be displayed on the operation unit 405 of the PC 400 using HTTP (HyperTextTransferProtocol), allowing for operation. In other words, in this embodiment, the device that displays and accepts operations is not limited to a specific device.

[0032] Next, we will describe the inspection functions of the inspection device 200. The types of inspections performed by the inspection device 200 include, for example, "print image inspection" and "data inspection." The details of these inspections will be described below.

[0033] (Print image inspection) The CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 uses the reading unit 226 to read the printed material transported from the image forming apparatus 100 and acquires a scanned image (read image) of the material to be inspected. The CPU 223 stores the acquired scanned image of the material to be inspected in the memory 224. Next, the CPU 223 acquires the difference value between the scanned image of the material to be inspected and a reference image that is previously stored in the memory 224 as a correct image. Then, the CPU 223 performs the inspection by comparing the acquired difference value with the inspection threshold for each inspection item (e.g., contrast or size) pixel by pixel. Finally, the CPU 223 stores the inspection results in the memory 224. The stored inspection results include, for example, information on whether or not there is a defect in the printed material, the type of defect detected (e.g., dots or streaks), or the location information of the defect when displayed on the operation unit 225.

[0034] (Data analysis) The CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 uses the reading unit 226 to read printed materials sequentially transported from the image forming apparatus 100 and acquires scanned images of the items to be inspected. The CPU 223 then stores the acquired scanned images of the items to be inspected in the memory 224. Next, the CPU 223 performs an extraction process on the scanned image to extract a region containing data such as text strings, barcodes, or QR codes from pre-specified coordinates. If the extracted image contains text, the CPU 223 performs OCR processing using a pre-configured font for optical character recognition (OCR). If the extracted image contains a barcode, the CPU 223 performs decoding processing using the barcode standard.

[0035] At this time, the CPU 223 determines whether the strings or barcodes in the area set to perform data inspection are readable or not. If the CPU 223 determines that they are readable, it determines OK; if it determines that they are unreadable, it determines NG. The CPU 223 can also perform data matching inspection by comparing the extracted data, which are the read strings or barcodes, with the corresponding data (correct data) in a pre-prepared correct CSV file to determine whether the data match. Here again, the CPU 223 determines OK if the data matches, and NG if they do not match. The CPU 223 also saves the inspection results to the storage device 222. The inspection results saved include, for example, the results of strings or barcodes read from printed materials, the results of comparison with correct data, or the position information of the read characters or barcodes when displayed on the operation unit 225.

[0036] (Example of processing) Next, the sequence processing of the image inspection system 10 will be explained using Figure 5. This processing is achieved by the CPUs in the image forming apparatus 100, the inspection apparatus 200, and the PC 400 reading programs stored in their respective storage devices into their respective memories and executing them. Furthermore, when sending and receiving data such as images or commands, each CPU uses a network controller to access other devices via the LAN 500 to save and read data. These series of operations will be omitted from the explanation of each process.

[0037] First, before sequence processing is executed, the CPU 403 of the PC 400 displays the print management screen on the operation unit 405 by executing screen display 431. This print management screen may also be received from the inspection device 200. Figure 6(a) shows an example of this print management screen 600. The print management screen 600 includes a print file selection list 601, a print button 602, a registered print button 603, a paper registration button 604, and a preprint paper registration button 605. The print file selection list 601 is an example of a "list". The print button 602 is an example of a "second object". The registered print button 603 is an example of a "third object". The paper registration button 604 is an example of a "fourth object". The preprint paper registration button 605 is an example of a "fifth object".

[0038] The print file selection list 601 contains a list of information on printable image files registered in the print management application 430. The list includes the file name, paper settings, inspection setting number, preprint paper name, and ON / OFF status for inspection, and these items are displayed as selectable options. Note that the paper settings on the print management screen 600 may display the paper type as a selectable option, or it may display whether the paper loaded in paper cassette 105 or paper cassette 106 is to be used as a selectable option. Inspection settings and preprint paper settings will be described later.

[0039] The print button 602 is used to print the image file selected in the print file selection list 601 according to the settings. The registered print button 603 is used to set detailed inspection settings using the inspection device 200 when printing the image file selected in the print file selection list 601. The paper registration button 604 is used to perform adjustments to improve accuracy when performing inspection using the inspection device 200. In other words, the paper registration button 604 is used when the type of paper to be inspected (thickness, size) is not registered, or when it is desired to improve the accuracy of the inspection. The preprint paper registration button 605 is used to register preprint paper with the inspection device 200.

[0040] Let's begin the explanation of the sequence flow in Figure 5. If information regarding the printing paper has not been registered, steps S1001 to S1003 are executed. Specifically, in S1001, the CPU 403 of the PC 400 receives input from the paper registration button 604 and executes the paper registration instruction 433. In the paper registration instruction 433, the CPU 403 first displays the paper registration screen 630 shown in Figure 6(b) on the operation unit 225. The paper registration screen 630 includes the paper type name 610, paper feed selection 611, execute button 612, and cancel button 613.

[0041] The paper type name 610 is a box for setting a name that can be identified during inspection. The paper feed selection 611 is a pull-down menu for selecting either paper cassette 105 or paper cassette 106. Here, it is assumed that paper feeding from paper cassette 106 (cassette 2) is selected. The execute button 612 is a button for instructing paper registration. The cancel button 613 is a button for canceling the settings of paper type name 610 and paper feed selection 611. When the CPU 403 receives input from the execute button 612 with the paper type name 610 and paper feed selection 611 set, it instructs the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection apparatus 200 to register the paper. At this time, the CPU 403 transmits information to the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection apparatus 200 to share the settings of paper type name 610 and paper feed selection 611. The CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 then receives the paper registration instruction using the network controller 121. Furthermore, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 also receives paper registration instructions using the network controller 221.

[0042] In S1002, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 executes pattern printing 131 in order to print a paper registration pattern from the paper cassette 106. Figure 7(a) shows an example of a printed paper registration pattern. Printing a paper registration pattern means that the CPU 123 prints a pattern on the printing paper in the paper cassette 106 to confirm where the image will be printed in the main scanning and sub-scanning directions. For this purpose, the CPU 123 expands a pattern in which feature points are arranged at equal intervals into the memory 124 and prints it. However, in the image forming apparatus 100, due to vertical and horizontal printing misalignment, the center point of each pattern is printed at a position distorted by up to several millimeters from the desired position, in accordance with the characteristics of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0043] In S1003, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 controls the image sensor 201 to a state where it is waiting to scan the pattern-printed document. When the reading unit 226 reads this document, the CPU 223 executes the document registration 231. Details of the document registration 231 will be described later. The positional deviation data after the execution of the document registration 231 is assumed to be stored in the storage device 222 of the inspection device 200.

[0044] Next, if information regarding preprinted paper has not been registered, steps S1004 to S1006 are executed. Specifically, in S1004, the CPU 403 of the PC 400 accepts the input of the preprinted paper registration button 605 and executes the preprinted paper image registration 232. That is, the CPU 403 first displays the preprinted paper registration screen 640 shown in Figure 6(c) on the operation unit 225. The preprinted paper registration screen 640 includes the preprinted paper name 620, paper type name 621, paper feed selection 622, execute button 623, and cancel button 624.

[0045] The preprint paper name 620 is a box for setting an identifiable name when performing inspection. The paper type name 621 is a pull-down menu for selecting the paper type name when paper registration 231 is executed. The paper feed selection 622 is a pull-down menu for selecting either paper cassette 105 or paper cassette 106. Here, it is assumed that paper cassette 105 (cassette 1) is selected. The CPU 403 accepts the operation input of the execute button 623 with the paper type name and paper feed selection set. Then, the CPU 403 uses the network controller to issue a preprint paper registration instruction to the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection device 200. At this time, the CPU 403 transmits information to the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection device 200 to share the settings of preprint paper name 620, paper type name 621, and paper feed selection 622. The CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 receives the preprint paper registration instruction from the PC 400 using the network controller 121. The CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 also receives preprint paper registration instructions from the PC 400 using the network controller 221.

[0046] In S1005, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 performs preprint paper blank printing 132. More specifically, Figure 7(b) illustrates preprint paper. Preprint paper is pre-printed paper that has been printed in large quantities by an offset printing press or the like. If preprint paper is loaded in the paper cassette 105 of the image forming apparatus 100, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 feeds the preprint paper from the paper cassette 105 into the paper transport path 109. On the paper transport path 109, if toner has been transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 108, the toner is transferred to the preprint paper. However, when performing preprint paper image registration 232, preprint paper that has not been overprinted is registered. In such cases, the CPU 123 deliberately does not transfer toner to the preprint paper and transports the preprint paper to the inspection device 200.

[0047] In S1006, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 controls the image sensor 201 to a state where it is waiting to scan preprint paper. When the reading unit 226 (an example of the "third acquisition unit") reads the preprint paper, the CPU 223 executes preprint paper image registration 232. That is, the CPU 223 stores the data of the image read from the preprint paper (an example of the "preprint sheet image") in the storage device 222 along with the setting value entered in the preprint paper name 620 on the preprint paper registration screen 640 in Figure 6(c). Note that steps S1004 to S1006 do not need to be performed if preprint paper has already been registered. Then the process proceeds to S1008.

[0048] Next, the inspection setting process will be explained. The inspection setting process is the setting process related to the inspection of coordinates, etc., for image inspection and data inspection within the print image. In S1008, the CPU 403 of PC 400 accepts the operation of pressing the registered print button 603 on the print management screen 600. Then, the CPU 403 executes the inspection setting print instruction program 435 and issues an inspection setting print instruction to the image forming apparatus 100 and the inspection apparatus 200. The CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 receives this inspection setting print instruction using the network controller 121. The CPU 223 of the inspection apparatus 200 also receives this inspection setting print instruction using the network controller 221.

[0049] In S1009, the CPU 403 of PC 400 sends image data to the image forming apparatus 100 for inspection registration. This image data is, for example, an image file such as a PDF file specified in the print file selection list 601 of the print management screen 600. Note that the image data in this embodiment includes variable data. That is, the image data includes fixed parts whose content does not change from frame to frame and variable parts such as strings or barcodes whose content changes from frame to frame, through the VDP (Variable Data Print) function. The image data including the fixed and variable parts becomes a bitmap image for printing through the RIP processing described later. The CPU 403 also sends setting data for the preprint paper name registered in S1006 along with the image data. The CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 receives the image data and the preprint paper name setting data using the network controller 121.

[0050] In S1010, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 executes RIP processing A133. That is, the CPU 123 extracts data from the image data of the largest variable part among multiple variable parts located at the same coordinates across multiple images of the object to be inspected, and generates image data of the object to be inspected.

[0051] Figures 7(c) and 7(d) illustrate the printable images generated when normal RIP processing is performed on two sets of image data to be inspected. On the other hand, Figure 7(e) illustrates the printable image generated when RIP processing A133 is performed. As shown in Figure 7(e), the CPU 123 further compares variable data 701 and variable data 704 at the same position in the printable images of Figures 7(c) and 7(d). The CPU 123 then adopts variable data 704, which has more characters, as variable data 707 in the RIP image. Also, when comparing variable data 702 and variable data 705 at the same position, variable data 702 has more characters. Therefore, the CPU 123 adopts variable data 702 as variable data 708 in the RIP image.

[0052] Further, when the variable data is a QR code or the like, the CPU 123 compares the data amount or the size of the shape of the QR code when actually printed. That is, the CPU 123 compares the sizes of the QR code 703 and the QR code 706, and adopts the QR code 703 having a larger size as the QR code 709 for the RIP image. Note that the variable data 701 to 705 and the QR codes (703, 706) are examples of the "variable portion". The variable data 701 to 705 are examples of the "character image". Further, the character "様" in Fig. 7(c) and Fig. 7(d) is an example of the "fixed portion that does not change for each frame".

[0053] Note that S1010 can be realized by the RIP processing A133 of the image forming apparatus 100 being executed independently, but for example, the VDP processing 436 of the PC 400 may be provided with a function of selecting a character string and a data string having the maximum size. In such a case, in the image data transmission of S1009, image data in a state where the maximum character string and data string have already been adopted is transmitted.

[0054] In S1011, the CPU 123 (an example of the "transmission unit") transmits the RIP image (bitmap image) of Fig. 7(e) generated by the RIP processing A133 to the inspection apparatus 200 using the network controller 121. Then, the CPU 223 of the inspection apparatus 200 (an example of the "first acquisition unit") receives this RIP image (an example of the "printing image") using the network controller 221.

[0055] In S1012, the CPU 223 of the inspection apparatus 200 executes preview image creation 233 to create a preview image. That is, the CPU 223 reads out the paper distortion data acquired in S1003 and the preprinted paper image data acquired in S1006 from the storage device 222. Then, the CPU 223 (an example of the "combining unit") creates a preview image using these read-out data and the RIP image acquired by the RIP processing A133. Details of the preview image creation 233 will be described later.

[0056] In S1013, the CPU 223 executes inspection setting registration 234. That is, the CPU 223 (an example of an "output unit") displays an inspection setting screen for adjusting the inspection settings (an example of "output"). The CPU 223 displays the screen on the operation unit 225 of the inspection device 200, but it may also transmit the inspection setting screen to the image forming apparatus 100 or the PC 400 (an example of "output"). The operation unit 125 of the image forming apparatus 100 or the operation unit 405 of the PC 400 may then display the inspection setting screen.

[0057] The inspection setting screen 800 is explained using Figure 8. The inspection setting screen 800 includes buttons (801-804, 811, 812, 836), a display area 805, inspection areas 806-809, and a list box 821. The inspection setting screen 800 also includes setting areas (831, 833, 837, 838), an automatic adjustment button 832, a CSV file for verification 834, and a setting name 835. The CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 displays the inspection setting screen 800 on the operation unit 225 and accepts various inputs to the inspection setting screen 800 to execute predetermined processing.

[0058] Button 801 is used to change the displayed page of the reference image and is used when changing the page turning of the reference image. Button 802 is a selection button for the inspection area and is pressed by the operator when they want to select an already set area. Button 803 is a delete button for the inspection area and is pressed by the operator when they want to delete the selected area. Button 804 is used to rotate the image displayed in display area 805. Display area 805 is a display area that displays the preview image created in preview image creation 233.

[0059] Button 811 is an OK button that saves the entered settings and transitions the inspection settings screen 800 to the print management screen 600, as exemplified in Figure 6(a). Setting name 835 is a box into which a name can be entered. By entering a name in such a box, the settings on the inspection settings screen 800 can be reused when performing the same inspection again. Button 811 is also a button for confirming the settings on the inspection settings screen 800. The CPU 223 may accept the operation of button 811 and transition the inspection settings screen 800 to an inspection screen (not shown) to enable the inspection to be executed.

[0060] Button 812 cancels the entered settings without saving them and transitions the inspection settings screen 800 to the print management screen 600 shown in Figure 6(a). The list box 821 is used when creating various inspection areas. After the operator presses one of the inspection types in the list box 821, they set the inspection area for the reference image displayed in the display area 805. For example, inspection area 806 shows an example of setting the print image inspection area when the image inspection area is selected in the list box 821. Inspection areas 807 and 808 show examples of setting the image data inspection area when the data inspection area is selected in the list box 821.

[0061] The setting area 831 (an example of a "first object") is an area where the operator can input a correction to the composite position of the preprint image and the RIP image, which is performed in the preview image creation 233. In other words, the operator can input a shift amount to move the RIP image vertically or horizontally relative to the preprint paper. Considering a typical printing device, an input value in the range of approximately ±4.0 mm is good, but the input value is not limited to this range. Also, the inspection setting screen 800 displays direction indicator buttons as an alternative to numerical input, and the input value may be adjusted by operating these buttons. Once the adjustment value is entered, the CPU 223 accepts this input. Then, the CPU 223 returns to S1012 in Figure 5, recreates the preview image according to the input value, and redisplays it in the display area 805. This operation makes it possible to adjust the variable area of ​​the RIP image so that it is printed in the correct position on the preprint paper while visually confirming it.

[0062] The setting area 831 also includes an automatic adjustment button. When the CPU 223 receives an operation of the automatic adjustment button 832, it refers to the positions of the inspection areas 807-809 of the RIP image displayed in the display area 805 stored in the storage device 222 during past adjustments using the same preprint paper. The CPU 223 then automatically adjusts the position of the print image relative to the preprint paper image. At this time, the CPU 223 may binarize the data of the fixed part in Figure 7(b) and the data of the variable part in Figure 7(e). The CPU 223 may then automatically move the print image up, down, left, and right so that these fixed and variable parts do not overlap with the image preprinted on the preprint paper. When adjustment is made using the automatic adjustment button 832, a numerical value is automatically entered into the setting area 831. The preview image is then recreated according to the adjustment value and redisplayed in the display area 805. The operator may then further input values ​​into the setting area 831 for fine-tuning.

[0063] The settings area 833 is a group of UI elements for configuring settings for the currently selected area in the display area 805. Figure 8 shows an example of the display screen when configuring front-to-back matching inspection. Here, the currently selected area is assumed to be the inspection area 806 where text is displayed, but the same settings can be performed for the inspection area 809 where a barcode is displayed.

[0064] More specifically, if inspection area 806 or inspection area 809 is selected, the operator can set their orientation by pressing button 836. The setting areas (837, 838) are for selecting inspection area 806 and inspection area 809, as well as the font type for string inspection and the barcode type for barcode inspection.

[0065] Returning to the explanation of the sequence flow in Figure 5, in S1014, when the operator operates button 811 to complete the inspection setting registration, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 receives this operation. The CPU 223 then stores the inspection setting information in the storage device 222 and uses it when the inspection is executed. The CPU 223 (an example of a "reception unit") also uses the network controller 221 to receive the setting value in the setting area 831 of the inspection setting screen 800. The CPU 223 (an example of a "position correction instruction unit") then transmits this setting value and a print position correction instruction corresponding to this setting value, which is a print position correction instruction for the printable image data to be printed on the preprint paper, to the image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 then receives this setting value using the network controller 121.

[0066] In S1015, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 uses the setting value received in S1014 to correct the print position when printing the print image data onto the preprint paper. The method for changing the print position includes, for example, changing the image position relative to the same A4 size frame as the recording paper when performing the RIP processing for printing (RIP processing B134). However, the method of correction is not limited to this method, and for example, it may also be done by adjusting the position where the toner is transferred at the image forming stations 101 to 104.

[0067] In S1016, the CPU 123 executes RIP processing B134. RIP processing B134 is a normal RIP process, and for example, if there are two images for printing, the VDP generates RIP images (bitmap images) for printing as shown in Figure 7(c) and Figure 7(d). In S1017, the CPU 123 uses the network controller 121 to send the RIP images created in S1016 to the inspection device 200. The inspection device 200 then receives these RIP images using the network controller 221.

[0068] In S1018, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 prints the RIP image created in S1016. That is, if preprint paper is loaded in the paper cassette 105, the CPU 123 feeds the preprint paper from the paper cassette 105 into the paper transport path 109. The CPU 123 then transfers toner to the intermediate transfer belt 108 on the paper transport path 109, and further transfers toner to the preprint paper. In this way, the print image is overprinted onto the preprint paper. Meanwhile, in the inspection device 200, when printing starts, the CPU 223 puts the reading sensor into scan-waiting mode. When the overprinted preprint paper reaches directly below the image sensor 201 of the inspection device 200, the image sensor 201 reads the overprinted preprint paper as an inspection target.

[0069] In S1019, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 performs inspection 235 to check for contamination. Specifically, the CPU 223 uses the paper distortion data acquired in S1003 to reproduce the printing distortion at each position on the RIP image received from the image forming apparatus 100 in S1017, and generates a reference image. Then, for the inspection area 806, the CPU 223 compares the inspection image with the reference image and determines that contamination is present if the difference is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

[0070] In S1020, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 performs inspection 235 to check the data. Specifically, the CPU 223 determines whether the data contained in the inspection areas 807 to 809 matches the matching data specified in the matching CSV file 834. The CPU 223 then determines that the data to be inspected does not match the matching data if the degree of conformance is less than a predetermined value. The process then terminates.

[0071] (Form registration) Using Figure 9, we will explain the details of the paper registration 231 process in S1003 of the sequence flow in Figure 5. This process is achieved when the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 reads the program stored in the storage device 222 into memory 224 and executes it.

[0072] In S9001, the reading unit 226 of the inspection device 200 reads the paper registration pattern (Figure 7(a)) formed on the sheet. The CPU 223 then acquires the scanned image data that has been read. In S9002, the CPU 223 performs RIP processing B134 on the paper registration pattern (Figure 7(a)) and acquires the resulting A4-sized RIP image data.

[0073] In S9003, CPU223 aligns the scanned image with the RIP image so that the four corners of the scanned image and the RIP image coincide. This alignment is based on the actual size of the paper that will be printed, since the RIP image is A4 size. The alignment method is, for example, affine transformation. Due to this alignment, the position of each mark (the + mark in Figure 7(a)) included in the scanned image data may be shifted.

[0074] In S9004, the CPU 223 calculates the difference in position between the scanned image data aligned to the paper standard and the RIP image data of each mark (the + mark in Figure 7(a)) as positional displacement amounts in the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively. In S9005, the CPU 223 (an example of the "second acquisition unit") saves the positional displacement amounts of each mark calculated in S9004 and the paper type specified by the paper type name 610 on the paper registration screen 630 to the storage device 222. In this way, the image distortion data that occurs when the image is actually formed on the paper is saved. Then, the process returns to the sequence flow in Figure 5.

[0075] (Create preview image) Using Figure 10, we will explain the details of the preview image creation process 233 in S1012 of the sequence flow in Figure 5. This process is achieved when the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 reads the program stored in the storage device 222 into memory 224 and executes it.

[0076] In S10001, the CPU 223 reads the preprint image data registered in S1006 by executing the preprint image registration 232 from the storage device 222. In S10002, the CPU 223 acquires the A4-sized RIP image data transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100 in S1011.

[0077] In S10003, the CPU 223 (an example of a "conversion unit") aligns the virtual paper edge of the A4-sized RIP image data, as it would appear when printed on paper, with the edge of the A4-sized preprinted paper image using methods such as affine transformation. Through this alignment, the positions of objects included in the RIP image are also transformed to match the preprinted paper image.

[0078] In S10004, the CPU 223 applies the paper distortion obtained by executing paper registration 231 (Figure 9) to the RIP image that was aligned in S10003. Since the distortion distance is saved for each pattern (+ mark) shown in Figure 7(a), the CPU 223 (an example of a "processing unit") performs distortion processing on the RIP image data at the position corresponding to that pattern for each pattern. The CPU 223 corrects the image data for pixel positions where there is no pattern using interpolation calculations or the like. For example, the CPU 223 uses a non-rigid body transformation such as FFD (Free Form Deformation), as exemplified in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-180822. In this way, nonlinear distortion that occurs during printing can be applied to the RIP image data.

[0079] In S10005, the CPU 223 combines the preprinted paper image data with the RIP image data that has been distorted in S10004. Specifically, the CPU 223 creates an alpha channel using pixels in the RIP image data where objects exist, and performs alpha synthesis of the RIP image data with the preprinted paper image data. In S10006, the CPU 223 saves the image data combined in S10005 as preview image data in memory 224. Then, the process proceeds to S1013 in Figure 5.

[0080] Furthermore, in this process, if the preprinted paper is a form or other document that requires printing an image within a frame, the following process may be performed. Specifically, if there is an overlap in areas where pixel values ​​exist when the preprinted paper image data and the RIP image data after distortion processing are combined, the CPU 223 may use the operation unit 225 to display a warning message on the inspection setting screen 800 in Figure 8.

[0081] (One aspect of action / effect) According to the image inspection system 10 described above, when printing an image for printing onto preprint paper, the user can configure inspection settings while referring to the inspection settings screen 800 which displays a preview image. Furthermore, this preview image takes into account the distortion that occurs when the image for printing is printed. Therefore, the user can adjust the printing position of the image for printing, taking this distortion into account, and configure inspection settings such as the inspection area 807. Thus, a decrease in inspection accuracy is suppressed.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the image inspection system 10 described above, when there are multiple print images, the variable data included in the preview image is the data with the largest size. Therefore, by referring to such a preview image and setting the inspection settings, it is possible to suppress the overlapping of variable data from the print image with images that are not subject to inspection, such as grid lines pre-printed in the preprint, when the overprint is actually performed. This also helps to suppress a decrease in the inspection accuracy of variable data.

[0083] <Variation> In the above embodiment, the CPU 223 performs RIP processing A133 in S1010 to extract the data with the largest size from among multiple variable data located at the same coordinates across multiple images to be inspected, and to create a RIP image of the subject to be inspected. On the other hand, this modified example describes a method for automatically obtaining the largest variable data from among multiple variable data by image synthesis. Processes similar to those in the embodiment will be omitted from explanation as appropriate.

[0084] The RIP process A133 related to the modified example will be explained using Figure 11. This process is achieved when the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 reads the program stored in the storage device 122 into the memory 124 and executes it.

[0085] In S4001, the CPU 123 of the image forming apparatus 100 acquires the image data of the object to be inspected, which was transferred from the PC 400 in S1009. In S4002, the CPU 123 executes RIP processing A133. That is, the CPU 123 generates RIP image (bitmap image) data for all frames of the image data of the object to be inspected. The CPU 123 then saves the generated RIP image data to memory 124. The RIP image data saved to memory 224 is, for example, the data shown in Figures 7(c) and 7(d).

[0086] In S4003, CPU123 determines whether or not all image data of the inspection targets has been RIP processed. If CPU123 determines that RIP processing has been performed, the process proceeds to S4004; otherwise, the process returns to S4002.

[0087] In S4004, CPU 123 performs OR synthesis on the image data shown in Figures 7(c) and 7(d). Figure 12(a) shows an example of the synthesized image obtained by OR synthesis. In OR synthesis, the variable data (1201, 1202) and the QR code 1203 are modified, and the data with the largest size formed in each part remains. Note that the processing in S4004 is an example of "union of the parts of multiple printable images".

[0088] In S4005, the CPU 123 automatically identifies the variable portion of the image data after OR synthesis by comparing the image data before and after OR synthesis. Here, it is assumed that the CPU 123 identifies the variable data (1201, 1202) and the QR code 1203 as the variable portion.

[0089] In S4006, the CPU 123 extracts contours from each of the identified variable parts using image processing, such as contour tracking. Figure 12(b) shows an example of an image with extracted contours. The CPU 123 (an example of a "combination unit") then combines RIP image data containing the fixed data, the OR-combined variable data (1201, 1202), the QR code 1203, and the enhanced contours 1204-1206. Enhancement of contours 1204-1206 can be done by drawing them with thick lines or colored lines, for example. The process then proceeds to S1011 in Figure 5. This RIP image data is used to create the preview image 233, making it possible to create a preview image in which the size of the variable parts is maximized across the entire page.

[0090] (Effects / Actions) The first modification can achieve the same effects as the above embodiment. Furthermore, according to the first modification, the variable portion included in multiple print images can be automatically identified in order to create a preview image in which the size of the variable portion is maximized. Therefore, the burden on the user can be reduced.

[0091] [Other variations] In the above embodiment, the inspection device 200 is equipped with a reading unit 226, but the reading unit may be located outside the inspection device 200 (for example, in an image forming apparatus 100). In such a case, the CPU 223 of the inspection device 200 (an example of the "third acquisition unit") may acquire the data read by the reading unit of the external device via the LAN 500.

[0092] <Other Embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments 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 realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0093] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention.

[0094] The disclosures herein include the following inspection apparatus, control methods thereof, and programs. <Item 1> An inspection device for inspecting abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, A first acquisition unit for acquiring images for printing, A second acquisition unit acquires the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. A third acquisition unit that acquires images of the preprint sheet, A processing unit that processes the printable image according to the difference, The system includes an output unit that outputs an inspection setting screen including the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet. Inspection equipment. <Item 2> The second acquisition unit acquires the difference, A first image containing a predetermined pattern is generated, A second image is obtained of the first image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. The position of the predetermined pattern included in the second image is transformed so that the position of the corner of the second image matches the position of the corner of the first image. This includes obtaining the difference between the position of the predetermined pattern included in the first image and the position of the predetermined pattern included in the second image, which is the transformed position of the predetermined pattern. The inspection device described in item 1. <Item 3> The system further includes a conversion unit that converts the print image so that the corners of the print image align with the corners of the image on the preprint sheet. The processing unit performs the processing on the printable image converted by the conversion unit. The inspection device described in item 2. <Item 4> The aforementioned inspection settings screen is: A preview image is created by overlaying the printable image, which has undergone the aforementioned processing, onto the image of the preprint sheet. A first object for inputting the shift amount of the print position of the print image, An inspection device as described in any one of items 1 to 3. <Item 5> The inspection setting screen includes a reception unit that accepts input of the shift amount, The system further includes a position correction instruction unit that instructs a shift in the position where the printable image is printed on the preprint sheet, according to the shift amount received by the reception unit. The inspection device described in item 4. <Item 6> The output unit further outputs a print management screen, The aforementioned print management screen is: A list for selecting images to print, A second object for printing the printable image selected in the list, A third object for setting up inspection of the sheet on which the printable image is printed, A fourth object for registering the type of sheet on which the aforementioned printable image will be printed, A fifth object for registering information of the aforementioned preprint sheet, including, An inspection device as described in any one of items 1 through 5. <Item 7> The third acquisition unit includes a reading unit capable of reading the image of the preprint sheet, An inspection device as described in any one of items 1 through 6. <Item 8> The inspection device described in any one of items 1 through 7, The image forming apparatus comprises the above-mentioned image forming apparatus, The image forming apparatus includes a transmitting unit, The transmitting unit transmits the printable image toward the inspection device. Inspection system. <Item 9> The aforementioned printable images are numerous, and each of the multiple printable images includes a variable portion that changes from frame to frame and a fixed portion that does not change from frame to frame. The image forming apparatus further comprises a combining unit that combines the variable unit which has the largest size when printed on the sheet, and the fixed unit, among a plurality of the variable units. The transmitting unit of the image forming apparatus transmits the synthesized image as the printable image to the inspection apparatus. The inspection system described in item 8. <Item 10> The variable part includes characters, The combining unit compares the characters in a plurality of print images and combines the character with the largest number of characters with the fixed unit as the variable unit with the largest size. The inspection system described in item 9. <Item 11> The variable part includes a two-dimensional code, The combining unit compares the data volume of the two-dimensional codes of multiple printable images or the size of the two-dimensional codes when printed on the sheet, and combines the two-dimensional code with the fixed unit, with the two-dimensional code having the largest data volume or size when printed on the sheet, as the variable unit having the largest size. The inspection system described in item 9 or 10. <Item 12> The aforementioned synthesis section is The individual images of the multiple printable images are combined by unifying them, The variable portion is identified by comparing the printable image before union with the composite image after union. The contour of the variable part after it has been identified and unified is extracted, The variable portion after union, the extracted contour, and the fixed portion are combined. The inspection system described in item 9. <Item 13> A control method for an inspection device that inspects for abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, The first acquisition unit performs a first acquisition process to acquire an image for printing, The second acquisition unit performs a second acquisition step of acquiring the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. The third acquisition unit performs a third acquisition process in which it acquires an image of a preprint sheet, The processing unit performs a processing step in which it processes the printable image according to the difference, The output unit includes an output step of outputting an inspection setting screen that includes the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet, A method for controlling an inspection device. <Item 14> A program for causing a computer to execute each step in a control method for an inspection device that inspects for abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, wherein the control method is: The first acquisition unit performs a first acquisition process to acquire an image for printing, The second acquisition unit performs a second acquisition step of acquiring the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. The third acquisition unit performs a third acquisition process in which it acquires an image of a preprint sheet, The processing unit performs a processing step in which it processes the printable image according to the difference, The output unit includes an output step of outputting an inspection setting screen that includes the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet, program. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 10: Image inspection system, 100: Image forming apparatus, 114: Paper feeder, 123, 223, 403: CPU, 200: Inspection device, 222: Storage device, 224: Memory, 225: Operation unit, 400: PC, 800: Inspection setting screen

Claims

1. An inspection device for inspecting abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, A first acquisition unit for acquiring images for printing, A second acquisition unit acquires the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. A third acquisition unit that acquires images of the preprint sheet, A processing unit that processes the printable image according to the difference, The system includes an output unit that outputs an inspection setting screen including the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet. Inspection device.

2. The second acquisition unit acquires the difference, A first image containing a predetermined pattern is generated, A second image is obtained of the first image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. The position of the predetermined pattern included in the second image is transformed so that the position of the corner of the second image matches the position of the corner of the first image. This includes obtaining the difference between the position of the predetermined pattern included in the first image and the position of the predetermined pattern included in the second image, which is the transformed position of the predetermined pattern. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The system further includes a conversion unit that converts the print image so that the corners of the print image align with the corners of the image on the preprint sheet. The processing unit performs the processing on the printable image converted by the conversion unit. The inspection apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned inspection settings screen is: A preview image is created by overlaying the printable image, which has undergone the aforementioned processing, onto the image of the preprint sheet. A first object for inputting the shift amount of the print position of the print image, The inspection apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The inspection setting screen includes a reception unit that accepts input of the shift amount, The system further includes a position correction instruction unit that instructs a shift in the position where the printable image is printed on the preprint sheet, according to the shift amount received by the reception unit. The inspection apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The output unit further outputs a print management screen, The aforementioned print management screen is: A list for selecting images to print, A second object for printing the printable image selected in the list, A third object for setting up inspection of the sheet on which the printable image is printed, A fourth object for registering the type of sheet on which the aforementioned printable image will be printed, A fifth object for registering information of the aforementioned preprint sheet, The inspection apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The third acquisition unit includes a reading unit capable of reading the image of the preprint sheet. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1.

8. An inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The image forming apparatus comprises the above-mentioned image forming apparatus, The image forming apparatus includes a transmitting unit, The transmitting unit transmits the printable image toward the inspection device. Inspection system.

9. The aforementioned printable images are numerous, and each of the multiple printable images includes a variable portion that changes from frame to frame and a fixed portion that does not change from frame to frame. The image forming apparatus further comprises a combining unit that combines the variable unit which has the largest size when printed on the sheet, and the fixed unit, among a plurality of the variable units. The transmitting unit of the image forming apparatus transmits the synthesized image as the printable image to the inspection apparatus. The inspection system according to claim 8.

10. The variable part includes characters, The combining unit compares the characters in a plurality of print images and combines the character with the largest number of characters with the fixed unit as the variable unit with the largest size. The inspection system according to claim 9.

11. The variable part includes a two-dimensional code, The combining unit compares the data volume of the two-dimensional code of a plurality of printable images or the size of the two-dimensional code when printed on the sheet, and combines the two-dimensional code with the fixed unit as the variable unit with the largest data volume or size when printed on the sheet. The inspection system according to claim 9.

12. The aforementioned synthesis section is The individual images of the multiple printable images are combined by unifying them, The variable portion is identified by comparing the printable image before union with the composite image after union. The contour of the variable part after it has been identified and unified is extracted, The variable portion after union, the extracted contour, and the fixed portion are combined. The inspection system according to claim 9.

13. A control method for an inspection device that inspects for abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, The first acquisition unit performs a first acquisition process to acquire an image for printing, The second acquisition unit performs a second acquisition step of acquiring the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. The third acquisition unit performs a third acquisition process in which it acquires an image of a preprint sheet, The processing unit performs a processing step in which it processes the printable image according to the difference, The output unit includes an output step of outputting an inspection setting screen that includes the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet, A method for controlling an inspection device.

14. A program for causing a computer to execute each step in a control method for an inspection device that inspects for abnormalities in a sheet printed by an image forming apparatus, wherein the control method is: The first acquisition unit performs a first acquisition process to acquire an image for printing, The second acquisition unit performs a second acquisition step of acquiring the positional difference between the printable image and the printable image as it is printed on the sheet by the image forming apparatus. The third acquisition unit performs a third acquisition process in which it acquires an image of a preprint sheet, The processing unit performs a processing step in which it processes the printable image according to the difference, The output unit includes an output step of outputting an inspection setting screen that includes the processed printable image and the image of the preprint sheet, program.

Images