Printed Material Inspection With Auto-Generated Check Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inspection systems for printed materials require manual generation of reference data, which is labor-intensive and prone to errors, especially for large data sets, and lack efficient automation in data inspection processes.
Innovation Solution
An inspection apparatus and method that automates the generation of check inspection data, including character font registration and reference image setup, with integrated image reading and processing units to compare scanned images with pre-registered data for defect detection and data readability checks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual methods are used to generate reference data for data inspections, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but labor intensity increases and errors occur more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus automatically generates its own reference data by reading the inspection target image and extracting data from variable regions, eliminating the need for external manual generation. The system serves itself by using its reading capabilities to create the reference data it needs for comparison inspections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of generating reference data with an automated optical and computational system. The inspection apparatus uses its reading unit to capture images and automatically processes the data through comparison inspection algorithms, substituting human manual operations with automated mechanical and computational processes.
2Productivity
If manual generation of reference data is performed, then adaptability to different inspection needs is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming processes
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus performs preliminary reading of the inspection target image to generate reference data before the actual comparison inspection begins. This preliminary action prepares the reference data in advance, enabling faster execution of the main inspection process without manual intervention during critical inspection phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous useful action by seamlessly transitioning from reading the inspection target image to generating reference data and then performing comparison inspections without manual interruptions. The automated flow ensures that the useful action of data processing continues uninterrupted, maximizing productivity.
3Productivity
If automated systems are introduced to reduce manual effort, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus uses its existing reading unit, already designed for reading inspection target images, to also generate reference data. This multi-functional use of the reading unit avoids adding separate dedicated hardware for reference data generation, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the reference data generation function with the existing inspection workflow by integrating it into the comparison inspection process. The reading unit serves dual purposes: reading inspection targets and generating reference data, combining multiple functions into a unified system that reduces overall complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is related to an inspection apparatus reads a printed material; sets a setting relating to check inspection data for checking data formed on a printed material; derives data defined by a predetermined rule according to setting content set in the setting and generating check inspection data for a plurality of sections in a printed material; and detects a defect in an inspection target printed material by comparing data read in the reading from the inspection target printed material and the corresponding check inspection data generated in the generating.