Print Inspection Interface for Rapid Abnormality Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming systems fail to instantaneously determine the extent of print quality abnormalities, leading to prolonged usability issues as users manually assess the degree of defects in printed materials.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that includes an inspection apparatus to compare reference image data with read data, allowing for automated determination of print quality abnormalities, with enhanced user interfaces for rapid identification and classification of defective prints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated inspection compares RIP data with scan data to identify abnormal portions, then the location and type of abnormalities can be ascertained instantaneously, but the extent of abnormality cannot be determined instantaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the inspection result into two distinct pieces of information: (1) abnormal portion identification (location and type) and (2) abnormality extent evaluation. The segmentation allows the system to immediately identify where and what type of abnormality exists while separately evaluating the degree of abnormality based on print quality requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between instant detection and comprehensive evaluation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary classification of abnormalities into NG (not good) and OK (acceptable) categories based on predetermined print quality requirements before final determination. This preliminary action enables the system to pre-evaluate the extent of abnormality and present both the location and the severity assessment simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential manual verification.
2Reliability
If manual checking is used to determine the degree of abnormality, then comprehensive evaluation can be performed, but it takes time to confirm the degree of abnormality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service inspection system where the inspection apparatus automatically performs both abnormality detection and extent evaluation by comparing scan data with RIP data against predetermined print quality requirements. The system serves itself by integrating the evaluation logic within the automated inspection process, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining reliable assessment of abnormality extent.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the inspection parameter from binary (NG/OK) to a multi-level assessment that includes both abnormality identification and extent evaluation. By introducing additional evaluation dimensions such as abnormality degree classification and correlation with print quality requirements, the system maintains comprehensive reliability while achieving automated rapid assessment.
3Ease of operation
If only NG/OK classification is provided, then quick determination is possible, but the extent of abnormality cannot be assessed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds another dimension to the inspection result by incorporating abnormality extent evaluation alongside the traditional NG/OK classification. Instead of providing only a binary outcome, the system presents multi-dimensional information including abnormality location, type, degree, and impact on print quality, thereby preserving comprehensive information while maintaining ease of interpretation through structured presentation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An information processing apparatus obtains reference image data used for printing of a printed material, and obtains an image quality inspection result obtained by comparing read image data obtained by reading the printed material and the reference image data. The information processing apparatus also displays, on a display unit, an inspection result screen in accordance with the inspection result. A first region for displaying an entire image corresponding to read image data for a predetermined page among pages read from printed material is included in the inspection result screen. Furthermore, the inspection result screen includes a second region in which a normal enlarged image obtained by enlarging a normal image based on reference image data and an abnormal enlarged image obtained by enlarging an abnormal image based on the read image data are displayed in association for each abnormal portion included in the entire image.