Image Inspection Area Setting with Template Replication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image inspection systems face complexity in setting inspection areas, particularly when the number of variable areas is large, requiring the setup of numerous coordinates, which increases time and effort.
Innovation Solution
An image inspection system that employs a hardware processor to acquire and compare read images with reference images, allowing for the setting of inspection areas using distinct designation methods for different types of areas, including a first method for a reference area and a second method for other areas, based on accepted designations, thereby simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of variable areas is increased to handle complex printing requirements, then the inspection coverage is improved, but the setting complexity increases due to the need to configure coordinates for each area individually
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the variable areas into two categories: a first variable area (template area) and second variable areas (target areas). By segmenting the setting process into these categories, the system applies different designation methods to each segment, reducing overall setting complexity while maintaining comprehensive inspection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal template in the first variable area that can be replicated across multiple second variable areas. This multi-functional approach allows a single template setting to serve multiple inspection purposes, reducing the need to configure each area individually while maintaining extensive inspection coverage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of variable areas is increased to cover more inspection regions, then the inspection capability is improved, but the time and effort required for setting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by creating a template in the first variable area before replicating it to multiple second variable areas. This preliminary template creation reduces the time required for setting, as the same configuration can be automatically applied to multiple areas without repeating the entire setting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by replicating the template from the first variable area to multiple second variable areas. This copying mechanism significantly reduces setting time, as the system can automatically duplicate the template configuration across numerous areas rather than manually setting each one individually.
3Measurement precision
If traditional coordinate-based designation is used for all inspection areas, then the setting precision is maintained, but the ease of operation deteriorates when dealing with multiple areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different designation methods for different areas: the first variable area uses coordinate-based designation for precision, while second variable areas use template-based designation for ease of operation. This localized approach optimizes each area's setting method according to its specific requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by making the first variable area the template rather than the reverse. This inversion allows the system to establish a precise reference point first, then use it to define multiple other areas, combining precision with operational simplicity in a reversed sequence from conventional methods.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an image inspection system including a hardware processor that: acquires a read image obtained by reading an image on a sheet with an image reader; compares the acquired read image with a reference image to inspect whether there is an abnormality; sets a plurality of inspection areas with respect to the reference image; accepts designation of a first inspection area serving as a reference among the plurality of inspection areas by a first designation method; and accepts designation of a second inspection area, which is an inspection area other than the first inspection area among the plurality of inspection areas, by a second designation method different from the first designation method. The hardware processor sets the plurality of inspection areas based on the accepted designation of the first inspection area and the accepted designation of the second inspection area.