JP7694066B2 - Inspection device, image forming system and inspection program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an inspection device, an image forming system, and an inspection program.

Conventionally, there is known an inspection device that inspects whether there are any defects in printed matter produced by an image forming device. By using such an inspection device, it is possible to reduce the amount of manpower required, shorten the inspection time, and reduce the need for pre-printing, compared to when printed matter is inspected manually. In particular, in the case of an inspection device that can be connected to an image forming device, it is possible to perform inspections in real time, making the above-mentioned effects even more pronounced.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which, when a sheet on which an image has been formed is determined to be a defective page, the sheet corresponding to the defective page and other sheets being printed or transported within the machine are discharged as waste paper. In this configuration, the discharge destination of the waste paper is changed from the discharge destination of the printed matter related to normal pages, making it easier for the user to remove the waste paper, and if the cause of the waste paper is a printing defect such as a stain, printing can be continued by reprinting without human intervention.

JP 2014-144627 A

However, in the case of variable data printing, where a different control number is assigned to each printed item, it is necessary to check during inspection whether the control numbers assigned to each printed item are printed in the correct order.

In this case, if a mismatch in the control numbers occurs during inspection by the inspection device, it is determined that there is a defect in the printout, but in most cases such defects are due to a flaw in the image data. Therefore, for example, if a reprint is performed because there is a defect in the printout, when the reprinted printout is inspected, the printout will not be the desired printout, and the defect in the printout will occur again, which will result in repeated reprinting.

In other words, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 is a configuration that takes the same action regardless of the type of defect in the printed matter, so there is room for improvement in terms of a configuration that can inspect printed matter.

The object of the present invention is to provide an inspection device, an image forming system, and an inspection program that can take appropriate measures depending on the type of defect in the printed matter.

The inspection device according to the present invention comprises:
An inspection device for a printed matter output by an image forming unit,
an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter;
a switching unit that interrupts the inspection of the printed matter for defects based on the results of the inspection by the inspection unit;
Equipped with
After interrupting the inspection of the printed matter for defects, the inspection device performs one of a number of controls, including control to resume the print job being inspected from the interruption causing page that caused the interruption of the inspection of the printed matter for defects, and control not to resume the print job being inspected.

The image forming system according to the present invention comprises:
an image forming unit that forms a print by outputting an image onto a recording medium;
an inspection device including an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter, and a switching unit that interrupts the inspection of the printed matter for defects based on the result of the inspection by the inspection unit;
Equipped with
After interrupting the inspection of the printed matter for defects, the inspection device performs one of a number of controls, including control to resume the print job being inspected from the interruption causing page that caused the interruption of the inspection of the printed matter for defects, and control not to resume the print job being inspected.

The inspection program according to the present invention comprises:
An inspection program for a printed matter imaged by an image forming unit,
On the computer,
an inspection process for inspecting the printed matter for defects based on a result of reading the printed matter;
A switching process for interrupting the inspection of the defects in the printed matter based on the results of the inspection process;
a process of performing one of a plurality of controls including, after interrupting the inspection of the defect of the printed matter, control of resuming the print job being inspected from the interruption causing page that caused the interruption of the inspection of the defect of the printed matter, and control of not resuming the print job being inspected;
Execute the command.

The present invention allows appropriate measures to be taken depending on the type of defect in the printed matter.

1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming system including an inspection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a main part of a control system of the image forming apparatus. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for a process to be performed after a defect in a printed matter is detected. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for a process to be performed after a print job is interrupted; FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation example of inspection control in the inspection device. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation example when control relating to an interruption process in the inspection device is executed. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation example when control relating to a diagnostic process in an inspection device is executed. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for the number of times each type of defect in a printed matter is to be detected. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation example when defect count control is executed in an inspection device. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation example when control relating to a diagnostic process in an inspection device is executed. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen on which an inspection level can be variably set for each print job.

The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of the overall configuration of an image forming system 100 equipped with an inspection device 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the main parts of the control system of the image forming device 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 is configured by connecting an image forming device 1 and a post-processing device 2 from the upstream side along the transport direction of paper S, which is an example of a recording medium.

Image forming device 1 is a color image forming device of the intermediate transfer type that utilizes electrophotographic process technology. That is, image forming device 1 primarily transfers the Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black) color toner images formed on photoconductor drum 413 onto intermediate transfer belt 421, superimposes the four color toner images on intermediate transfer belt 421, and then secondarily transfers the images onto paper S sent from paper feed tray units 51a to 51c, thereby forming an image.

The image forming device 1 also employs a tandem system in which photoconductor drums 413 corresponding to the four colors YMCK are arranged in series in the running direction of the intermediate transfer belt 421, and each color toner image is transferred sequentially to the intermediate transfer belt 421 in a single step.

As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming device 1 includes an image reading unit 10, an operation display unit 20, an image processing unit 30, an image forming unit 40, a paper conveying unit 50, a fixing unit 60, and a control unit 101.

The control unit 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 103, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 104, etc. The CPU 102 reads out a program corresponding to the processing contents from the ROM 103, loads it into the RAM 104, and centrally controls the operation of each block of the image forming device 1 in cooperation with the loaded program. At this time, various data stored in the memory unit 72 is referenced. The memory unit 72 is composed of, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory (so-called flash memory) or a hard disk drive.

The control unit 101 transmits and receives various data to and from an external device (e.g., a personal computer) connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) via the communication unit 71. The control unit 101 receives, for example, image data (input image data) transmitted from an external device, and forms an image on paper S based on this image data. The communication unit 71 is composed of, for example, a communication control card such as a LAN card.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image reading unit 10 is configured with an automatic document feeder 11, also known as an ADF (Auto Document Feeder), and a document image scanning device 12 (scanner), etc.

The automatic document feeder 11 transports the document D placed on the document tray using a transport mechanism and sends it to the document image scanning device 12. The automatic document feeder 11 makes it possible to continuously read the images (including both sides) of multiple documents D placed on the document tray all at once.

The document image scanning device 12 optically scans the document transported from the automatic document feeder 11 onto the contact glass or the document placed on the contact glass, and forms an image of the reflected light from the document on the light receiving surface of a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor 12a to read the document image. The image reading unit 10 generates input image data based on the results of the reading by the document image scanning device 12. This input image data is subjected to a predetermined image processing in the image processing unit 30.

As shown in FIG. 2, the operation display unit 20 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a touch panel, and functions as a display unit 21 and an operation unit 22. The display unit 21 displays various operation screens, image states, operation statuses of each function, etc. according to a display control signal input from the control unit 101. The operation unit 22 has various operation keys such as a numeric keypad and a start key, accepts various input operations by the user, and outputs operation signals to the control unit 101.

The image processing unit 30 includes circuits and the like that perform digital image processing according to initial settings or user settings. For example, under the control of the control unit 101, the image processing unit 30 performs gradation correction based on gradation correction data (gradation correction table). In addition to gradation correction, the image processing unit 30 also performs various correction processes such as color correction and shading correction, as well as compression processing. The image forming unit 40 is controlled based on the image data that has been subjected to these processes.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming unit 40 forms an image on a sheet S based on the settings of a print job. The image forming unit 40 includes image forming units 41Y, 41M, 41C, and 41K, and an intermediate transfer unit 42 for forming images using color toners of the Y, M, C, and K components based on input image data.

Image forming units 41Y, 41M, 41C, and 41K for the Y, M, C, and K components have the same configuration. For ease of illustration and explanation, common components are indicated with the same reference numerals, and when distinguishing between them, the reference numerals are followed by Y, M, C, or K. In FIG. 1, reference numerals are only assigned to the components of image forming unit 41Y for the Y component, and reference numerals are omitted for the components of the other image forming units 41M, 41C, and 41K.

The image forming unit 41 includes an exposure device 411, a developing device 412, a photosensitive drum 413, a charging device 414, and a drum cleaning device 415.

The photoconductor drum 413 is, for example, an organic photoconductor in which a photosensitive layer made of a resin containing an organic photoconductor is formed on the outer peripheral surface of a drum-shaped metal base.

The control unit 101 rotates the photoconductor drum 413 at a constant peripheral speed by controlling the drive current supplied to a drive motor (not shown) that rotates the photoconductor drum 413.

The charging device 414 is, for example, a charger, and generates a corona discharge to uniformly charge the surface of the photoconductive photoconductor drum 413 to a negative polarity.

The exposure device 411 is composed of, for example, a semiconductor laser, and irradiates the photoconductor drum 413 with laser light corresponding to the image of each color component. As a result, an electrostatic latent image of each color component is formed in the image area on the surface of the photoconductor drum 413 irradiated with the laser light due to the potential difference with the background area.

The developing device 412 is a two-component reversible developing device that applies developer of each color component to the surface of the photoconductor drum 413 to visualize the electrostatic latent image and form a toner image.

The developing device 412 is applied with, for example, a DC developing bias having the same polarity as the charging polarity of the charging device 414, or a developing bias in which an AC voltage is superimposed with a DC voltage having the same polarity as the charging polarity of the charging device 414. As a result, reversal development is performed in which toner adheres to the electrostatic latent image formed by the exposure device 411.

The drum cleaning device 415 is in contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 413 and has a flat drum cleaning blade made of an elastic material, and removes toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 413 that has not been transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 421.

The intermediate transfer unit 42 includes an intermediate transfer belt 421, a primary transfer roller 422, a number of support rollers 423, a secondary transfer roller 424, and a belt cleaning device 426.

The intermediate transfer belt 421 is an endless belt that is stretched around a number of support rollers 423 in a loop shape. At least one of the support rollers 423 is a drive roller, and the others are driven rollers. For example, it is preferable that roller 423A, which is disposed downstream in the belt running direction from primary transfer roller 422 for K component, is the drive roller. This makes it easier to maintain a constant running speed of the belt in the primary transfer section. As drive roller 423A rotates, intermediate transfer belt 421 runs at a constant speed in the direction of arrow A.

The intermediate transfer belt 421 is a conductive and elastic belt having a high resistance layer on its surface. The intermediate transfer belt 421 is driven to rotate by a control signal from the control unit 101.

The primary transfer roller 422 is disposed on the inner peripheral side of the intermediate transfer belt 421, facing the photoconductor drum 413 of each color component. The primary transfer roller 422 is pressed against the photoconductor drum 413 with the intermediate transfer belt 421 sandwiched therebetween, forming a primary transfer nip for transferring the toner image from the photoconductor drum 413 to the intermediate transfer belt 421.

The secondary transfer roller 424 is disposed on the outer circumferential surface side of the intermediate transfer belt 421, facing the backup roller 423B, which is disposed downstream of the drive roller 423A in the belt running direction. The secondary transfer roller 424 is pressed against the backup roller 423B with the intermediate transfer belt 421 sandwiched therebetween, thereby forming a secondary transfer nip for transferring a toner image from the intermediate transfer belt 421 to the paper S.

When the intermediate transfer belt 421 passes through the primary transfer nip, the toner image on the photoconductor drum 413 is sequentially superimposed and primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 421. Specifically, a primary transfer bias is applied to the primary transfer roller 422, and a charge of the opposite polarity to the toner is applied to the back side of the intermediate transfer belt 421, i.e., the side that contacts the primary transfer roller 422, so that the toner image is electrostatically transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 421.

Then, when the paper S passes through the secondary transfer nip, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 421 is secondarily transferred to the paper S. Specifically, a secondary transfer bias is applied to the secondary transfer roller 424, and a charge of the opposite polarity to the toner is applied to the back side of the paper S, that is, the side that contacts the secondary transfer roller 424, so that the toner image is electrostatically transferred to the paper S. The paper S with the transferred toner image is transported toward the fixing unit 60.

The belt cleaning device 426 removes residual toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 421 after secondary transfer.

The fixing section 60 includes an upper fixing section 60A having a fixing surface side member arranged on the fixing surface of the paper S, i.e., the surface on which the toner image is formed, a lower fixing section 60B having a back surface side support member arranged on the back surface of the paper S, i.e., the surface opposite the fixing surface, and a heating source. The back surface side support member is pressed against the fixing surface side member to form a fixing nip that clamps and transports the paper S.

The fixing unit 60 fixes the toner image onto the paper S by applying heat and pressure to the paper S, which has been transported and to which the toner image has been secondarily transferred, in the fixing nip. The fixing unit 60 is disposed as a unit within the fixing device F.

The upper fixing section 60A has an endless fixing belt 61, which is a fixing surface side member, a heating roller 62, and a fixing roller 63. The fixing belt 61 is stretched between the heating roller 62 and the fixing roller 63.

The lower fixing section 60B has a pressure roller 64, which is a back side support member. The pressure roller 64 forms a fixing nip between the fixing belt 61 and the pressure roller 64 to clamp and transport the paper S.

The paper transport section 50 includes a paper feed section 51, a paper discharge section 52, and a transport path section 53. The three paper feed tray units 51a to 51c that make up the paper feed section 51 store paper S (standard paper, special paper) identified based on basis weight, size, etc., by pre-set type.

The transport path section 53 has multiple transport roller pairs, such as a registration roller pair 53a, and a normal transport path 53b that passes the paper S through the image forming section 40 and the fixing section 60 and discharges it outside the image forming device 1.

The sheets S stored in the paper feed tray units 51a to 51c are sent out one by one from the top and transported to the image forming unit 40 by the transport path unit 53. In the image forming unit 40, the toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 421 are secondarily transferred all at once onto one side of the sheets S, and a fixing process is performed in the fixing unit 60. The sheets S with the image formed thereon are discharged outside the machine by the paper discharge unit 52 equipped with paper discharge rollers 52a.

The post-processing device 2 includes an inspection device 200 that receives the paper S discharged from the image forming device 1 and inspects the paper S (printed matter) on which the image is output by the image forming unit 40. The inspection device 200 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, and input/output circuits (not shown). The inspection device 200 is configured to inspect the printed matter for defects based on a preset program.

The post-processing device 2 is also provided with a first tray 2A and a second tray 2B. Printed matter determined to be normal based on the inspection results of the inspection device 200 is discharged onto the first tray 2A. Printed matter determined to be abnormal based on the inspection results of the inspection device 200 is discharged onto the second tray 2B. The inspection device 200 has an acquisition unit 210, an inspection unit 220, a switching unit 230, a diagnosis unit 240, and a repair unit 250.

The acquisition unit 210 is a reading unit (e.g., a scanner, a camera, etc.) capable of reading the paper S being transported through the post-processing device 2, and acquires the reading information of the paper S.

The inspection unit 220 inspects whether there are any printing defects based on the results of reading the paper S. Specifically, the inspection unit 220 inspects whether there are any printing defects by comparing the reference image with the print image (read information) formed on the paper S.

Defects in printed material include, for example, specific image defects, mismatches in control numbers when different control numbers (control data) are assigned to each page in a print job, etc.

The specified image defects are, for example, image defects that cause stains on the paper S (hereinafter, "stains"), image defects that cause chips in the printed image (hereinafter, "chips"), image defects that cause streaks (vertical lines, horizontal lines, etc.) in the printed image (hereinafter, "streaks"), image defects that cause fireflies (black dots, white dots, etc.) in the printed image (hereinafter, "fireflies"), etc. Note that the specified image defects may be other types as well.

The reference image is, for example, an image obtained by reading a print image formed in advance on a specified sheet of paper using the acquisition unit 210. This image is an image that has no defects in the printed matter. The reference image may also be an image based on image data in the image forming unit 40 of the image forming device 1.

If the reference image and the printed image match, the inspection unit 220 determines that there is no defect in the printed matter. If the reference image and the printed image formed on the paper S do not match, the inspection unit 220 determines that there is a defect in the printed matter.

If the inspection unit 220 determines that there is a defect in the print, it inspects the type of image defect in the print. The inspection unit 220 detects the type of defect in the print by detecting whether the image defect is a stain, chip, streak, or glowworm based on the difference between the printed image and the reference image. Publicly known techniques can be used to detect these image defects.

In addition, when a different control number (management data for managing printed matter) is assigned to each page of a print job, the inspection unit 220 checks for defects in the printed matter by comparing the control number with an inspection area that is part of the printed matter's image. The inspection area is the area in the printed matter to which the control number is assigned.

The above-mentioned management number is, for example, linked to each page of the print job and stored in the memory unit 72, etc. The inspection unit 220 determines whether the inspection number in the inspection area of the print image on a specific page of the print job matches the management number corresponding to the specific page.

If the inspection number and the management number match, the inspection unit 220 determines that there is no defect in the printed matter. If the inspection number and the management number do not match, the inspection unit 220 determines that there is a defect in the printed matter. In this case, the inspection unit 220 detects a mismatch in the management data as the type of printing defect.

Furthermore, when the inspection unit 220 detects a type of defect in the printed matter, it performs a process of notifying the user of the defect in the printed matter. The notification process may be any process as long as it is capable of notifying the user of the type of defect, such as, for example, storing the type of defect in a memory unit or the like so that the user can check it, displaying the defect on a display unit or the like, outputting the details of the defect by voice or the like, outputting information on the details of the defect to an external device, etc.

This allows the user to understand the nature of the problem with the printed material.

The switching unit 230 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to switch control of the image forming unit 40 of the image forming device 1 depending on the type of defect in the printed matter inspected by the inspection unit 220. The command is output, for example, via a communication unit or a network (not shown) capable of sending and receiving data signals to the communication unit 71 of the image forming device 1.

The switching unit 230 switches the control related to printing by the image forming unit 40 (hereinafter, "print control") based on a pattern that has been set and registered in advance. For example, it is assumed that print control can be set for each type of defect in the printed matter on a setting screen (for example, the setting screen shown in FIG. 3) of a display unit (not shown) in the inspection device 200. Examples of print control include continuing to print, pausing printing, and reprinting. The setting screen may be that of the operation display unit 20 of the image forming device 1, or that of an external device connected via a network.

Continuing printing means continuing the print job. In other words, if a defect for which continuing printing is set is detected, the switching unit 230 does not change the control of the image forming unit 40, and allows printing in the print job to continue. Therefore, the page with the defect is discharged to the first tray 2A as is. In other words, a printed material that only has defects for which continuing printing is set is treated as a normal printed material.

Print interruption means to interrupt the print job. In other words, if a malfunction that has been set to interrupt printing is detected, the switching unit 230 stops the image forming unit 40 and interrupts the print job. The printed material that caused the print interruption is discharged to the second tray 2B, not the first tray 2A.

Reprinting refers to reprinting the page that caused the defect in the printed matter. In other words, when a defect that has been set for reprinting is detected, the switching unit 230 causes the page that caused the defect to be reprinted.

In this case, the page causing the defect is discharged to the second tray 2B. Also, at the time when the page causing the defect is inspected by the inspection unit 220, the paper S that has already been supplied to the image forming device 1 is also discharged to the second tray 2B. As a result, when the page causing the defect is reprinted, the page following that page is not discharged to the first tray 2A. Therefore, since the printed material resulting from the reprint of the page causing the defect is not discharged on top of the printed material relating to the page following that page, the order of the pages on the first tray 2A is not changed.

Note that, once the page containing the defect has been inspected by the inspection unit 220, the inspection unit 220 may also inspect the paper S that has already been supplied to the image forming device 1. Furthermore, if a defect that would cause printing to be interrupted is detected for the page corresponding to that paper S, printing may be interrupted without reprinting. Regarding this inspection, the user may be able to set whether or not to perform this inspection, or the inspection unit 220 may perform this inspection automatically.

For example, assume that the types of printing defects are stains, chipping, streaks, glowing spots, and mismatch (mismatch in control numbers). In the example setting screen shown in Figure 3, the patterns registered and set are reprinting for stains and chipping, continuing printing for streaks and glowing spots, and interrupting printing for mismatch.

In this case, if the defect detected by the inspection unit 220 is a stain or chipping, the switching unit 230 ejects the printout related to the page causing the defect to the second tray 2B and reprints that page. If the defect detected by the inspection unit 220 is a streak or a glitter, the switching unit 230 continues printing of the print job. If the defect detected by the inspection unit 220 is a mismatch, the switching unit 230 interrupts printing of the print job.

By doing this, the switching unit 230 switches the printing control of the image forming unit 40 to either continue printing, interrupt printing, or reprint depending on the type of defect in the printed matter. As a result, in this embodiment, it is possible to easily switch the printing control to the appropriate control depending on the type of defect in the printed matter.

The switching unit 230 also suspends print control based on the number of times reprinting has been performed. For example, the setting screen shown in FIG. 3 has a section on the right side in FIG. 3 where the number of times can be input so that a limit on the number of times reprinting can be set. When reprinting is set on the setting screen, a number can be input in that section. For example, in FIG. 3, the limit on the number of times reprinting is set to four times for both stains and chips, for which reprinting has been set.

This will help prevent you from having to reprint multiple times due to the same problem.

In addition, when a print job is interrupted, the switching unit 230 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to either resume the print job from the second page after the first page that was printed when the print job was interrupted, resume the print job from the third page that caused the print job to be interrupted, or cancel the print job.

Specifically, after interrupting a print job, for example, when the switching unit 230 acquires a signal related to control specified by the user, or based on the diagnosis result by the diagnosis unit 240, the switching unit 230 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to either resume the print job from the second page, resume the print job from the third page, or cancel the print job.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when a print job is interrupted, a selection screen for continuing and resuming, reprinting and resuming, canceling printing, and diagnosing is displayed on the setting screen of the display unit (not shown) of the inspection device 200. The setting screen may be that of the operation display unit 20 of the image forming device 1, or that of an external device connected via a network.

Continuation and resumption refers to restarting the print job from the second page after the first page that was printed when the print job was interrupted. Reprint resumption refers to restarting the print job from the third page that caused the print job to be interrupted. Print cancellation refers to canceling the print job. Diagnosis refers to the diagnosis process performed by the diagnosis unit 240 to check for defects in the printed material.

When the user selects either continue resuming, resuming reprinting, or canceling printing, the switching unit 230 acquires a signal related to the control selected (specified) by the user and outputs a command related to that signal to the image forming device 1.

When a command to resume printing is issued, the first page is discharged to the second tray 2B, but is determined by the user to be a normal printed matter. Therefore, a process may be executed to prompt the user to move the first page to the first tray 2A.

In addition, if the user selects diagnosis, the switching unit 230 outputs to the image forming device 1 a command related to control according to the diagnosis result of the diagnosis unit 240.

When the switching unit 230 interrupts the print job and, for example, receives a signal related to a diagnostic command from the user, the diagnosis unit 240 diagnoses defects in the printed matter. The diagnosis unit 240 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to form a chart image on the paper S, for example, a halftone image, in order to identify the cause of the defect in the printed matter.

Then, the diagnosis unit 240 analyzes the results of reading the chart image acquired by the acquisition unit 210 and determines whether the defect in the printed matter can be automatically repaired. Specifically, for example, if the type of defect in the printed matter is streaks, the diagnosis unit 240 determines whether the defect (streaks) in the printed matter can be automatically repaired based on the frequency with which the streaks occur. The judgment criteria in the diagnosis unit 240 can be set as appropriate. The paper S on which the chart image has been formed is discharged to the second tray 2B.

In addition, while the diagnosis unit 240 is performing a diagnosis, the inspection device 200 may execute a process to notify the user that the image forming device 1 is stopped (the printed material is being diagnosed).

The repair unit 250 performs a repair process for the defect in the printed matter based on the diagnosis result of the diagnosis unit 240. Specifically, when the diagnosis unit 240 determines that the defect can be automatically repaired, the repair unit 250 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to repair the defect in the printed matter.

As a repair process, for example, if the defect in the printed matter is fireflies, a command to change the transfer voltage at the transfer nip is output to the image forming device 1, and if the defect in the printed matter is streaks, a command to automatically clean the charging device 414 is output to the image forming device 1.

If the diagnosis unit 240 determines that the defect in the printed matter cannot be automatically repaired, it executes a process of notifying the user of the instruction information, for example by displaying instruction information for repairing the defect in the printed matter on a display unit or the like. The instruction information is, for example, information related to instructions that prompt the user to replace a part, clean a part, etc.

When the repair process by the repair unit 250 or the user's operation related to repairing the printout based on the instruction information from the diagnosis unit 240 is completed, the diagnosis unit 240 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to form a chart image on the paper S to confirm that the defect in the printout has been repaired. Note that the completion of the operation related to repairing the printout by the user is recognized, for example, by the inspection device 200 acquiring a signal that is output when the user presses a button indicating completion of the operation.

For example, if a user inputs an instruction to the inspection device 200 indicating that a defect in the printed matter in the chart image has been repaired, the switching unit 230 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to resume the print job from the third page that caused the print job to be interrupted.

In addition, if the user inputs an instruction to the inspection device 200 indicating that the defect in the printed matter in the chart has not been repaired, the diagnosis unit 240 determines whether to cancel the print job or to diagnose the defect in the printed matter again.

For example, when a command to diagnose a defect in the printed matter is issued by the user, the diagnosis unit 240 determines to diagnose the defect in the printed matter again. When this determination is made, the diagnosis unit 240 diagnoses again the cause of the defect in the printed matter.

For example, if a command to cancel the print job is issued by the user, the diagnosis unit 240 determines that the print job should be canceled. When this determination is made, the switching unit 230 outputs a command to cancel the print job to the image forming device 1.

Next, an example of the operation of the inspection device 200 when performing inspection control will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the inspection device 200 when performing inspection control. The process in FIG. 5 is appropriately performed by the inspection device 200, for example, when the control unit 101 of the image forming device 1 receives an instruction to execute a print job.

As shown in FIG. 5, the inspection device 200 acquires read information of the printed matter (step S101). After acquiring the read information of the printed matter, the inspection device 200 inspects the printed matter for defects (step S102).

Then, the inspection device 200 determines whether or not there is a defect in the printed matter (step S103). If the result of the determination is that there is no defect in the printed matter (step S103, NO), the process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if there is a defect in the printed matter (step S103, YES), the inspection device 200 executes a notification process (step S104).

Next, the inspection device 200 determines whether the print control set for the defect in the printed matter is to continue printing (step S105). If the result of the determination is that the print control is not to continue printing (step S105, NO), the inspection device 200 determines whether the print control set for the defect in the printed matter is to interrupt printing (step S106).

If the print control is determined to be print interruption (step S106, YES), the inspection device 200 executes interruption processing to interrupt the print job (step S107). Details of the interruption processing will be described later.

On the other hand, if the print control is not a print interruption (step S106, NO), the inspection device 200 counts up the number of reprints (step S108) and determines whether the number of reprints is less than the limit (step S109).

If the determination result is that the number of reprints is not less than the limit (step S109, NO), the inspection device 200 resets the number of reprints (step S110) and the process transitions to step S107.

On the other hand, if the number of reprints is less than the limit (step S109, YES), the inspection device 200 rewinds the page in the print job (step S111), and the process returns to step S101. Rewinding the page is a process of rewinding the page to be printed in the print job to the page that caused the defect in the printed matter related to the reprint, or the page that caused the interruption of the printing defect related to the resumption of the reprint.

Returning to the determination in step S105, if the print control is to continue printing (step S105, YES), the inspection device 200 continues the print job and determines whether ejection of all pages following the page with the defective printout has been completed (step S112).

If the result of the determination is that not all pages have been discharged (step S112, NO), the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that all pages have been discharged (step S112, YES), the inspection device 200 determines whether printing of all pages of the print job has been completed or whether there is a next page (step S113). If the result of the determination is that printing of all pages has not been completed or there is a next page (step S113, NO), the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, if printing of all pages has been completed or there is no next page (step S113, YES), this control ends.

Next, an example of operation when control related to interruption processing in the inspection device 200 is executed will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when control related to interruption processing in the inspection device 200 is executed. The processing in FIG. 6 is executed appropriately when the inspection device 200 executes the processing of step S107 in FIG. 5, for example.

As shown in FIG. 6, the inspection device 200 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to stop printing (step S201). If the result of the determination is that it has not received an instruction to stop printing (step S201, NO), the inspection device 200 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to resume reprinting (step S202).

If the result of the determination is that a command to perform reprinting has been received (step S202, YES), the process transitions to step S111 in FIG. 5, where the print job is resumed (restart reprinting). On the other hand, if a command to perform reprinting has not been received (step S202, NO), the inspection device 200 determines whether or not a command to perform diagnosis has been received (step S203).

If it is determined that a command to perform diagnosis has not been received (step S203), the process transitions to step S101 in FIG. 5, and the print job is resumed (continuation resume). On the other hand, if a command to perform diagnosis has been received (step S203, YES), the inspection device 200 executes the diagnosis process (step S204). The details of the diagnosis process will be described later.

Returning to the judgment in step S201, if a command to cancel printing is received (step S201, YES), the print job is canceled and this control ends.

Next, an example of operation when control related to diagnostic processing in the inspection device 200 is executed will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of operation when control related to diagnostic processing in the inspection device 200 is executed. The process in FIG. 7 is executed appropriately when the inspection device 200 executes the process of step S204 in FIG. 6, for example.

As shown in FIG. 7, the inspection device 200 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to output a confirmation chart (step S301). After acquiring the read information related to the printout of the confirmation chart, the inspection device 200 determines whether or not the confirmation chart can be automatically repaired (step S302).

If the result of the determination is that automatic repair is not possible (step S302, NO), the inspection device 200 outputs instruction information, for example to a display unit (step S303), and determines whether or not a command to complete the repair has been received (step S304).

If the determination result indicates that a command to complete repairs has not been received (step S304, NO), the process of step S304 is repeated. On the other hand, if a command to complete repairs has been received (step S304, YES), the process transitions to step S306.

Returning to the judgment of step S302, if automatic repair is possible (step S302, YES), the inspection device 200 executes the repair process (step S305).

Next, the inspection device 200 outputs a command to output a confirmation chart to the image forming device 1 (step S306). After acquiring the read information related to the printout of the confirmation chart, the inspection device 200 determines whether the defect has been repaired (step S307). Note that whether the defect has been repaired is determined, for example, by receiving an operational command from the user as to whether the defect has been repaired.

If the result of the determination is that the defect has been repaired (step S307, YES), the process proceeds to step S111 in FIG. 5, where the print job is resumed (restart reprinting). On the other hand, if the defect has not been repaired (step S307, NO), the inspection device 200 determines whether or not a command to stop printing has been received (step S308).

If the determination result is that a command to cancel printing has not been received (step S308, NO), the process returns to step S301. On the other hand, if a command to cancel printing has been received (step S308, YES), the print job is canceled and this control ends.

According to the present embodiment configured as described above, the switching unit 230 switches the printing control of the image forming unit 40 depending on the type of defect in the printed matter, so that an appropriate response can be taken depending on the type of defect in the printed matter.

As a result, it is possible to prevent wasteful repeated use of the same response (e.g., reprinting) regardless of the type of defect in the printed matter, thereby significantly reducing printing costs.

In addition, since the switching unit 230 switches the printing control based on a pattern that has been set and registered in advance, it is possible to produce printed matter that has been inspected according to the purpose of the print job (e.g., emphasis on image quality, emphasis on productivity, etc.).

In addition, if the inspection unit 220 detects a defect in the printed matter, it performs a notification process for the defect, so that the user can recognize the content of the defect.

In addition, the diagnosis unit 240 diagnoses defects in the printed matter after the print job is interrupted, so the cause of the defects in the printed matter can be analyzed. As a result, the defects in the printed matter can be repaired by the repair process in the repair unit 250 or by issuing repair instructions to the user.

In the above embodiment, the diagnosis unit 240 diagnoses defects in the printed matter based on instructions from the user, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the diagnosis unit 240 may automatically diagnose defects in the printed matter depending on the type of defect in the printed matter that is detected.

Specifically, the diagnosis unit 240 automatically diagnoses defects in the printed matter depending on the number of times the defect in the printed matter is detected. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the number of times the defect in the printed matter is detected can be set for each type of defect in the printed matter on a setting screen of the display unit (not shown) of the inspection device 200. Then, when the diagnosis unit 240 detects a particular defect the set number of times, it diagnoses that defect. The setting screen may be that of the operation display unit 20 of the image forming device 1, or that of an external device connected via a network.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the number of times streaks and fireflies appear is set to 20, and the number of times stains and chips appear is not set. Therefore, the diagnosis unit 240 does not diagnose a malfunction even if stains and chips occur, but diagnoses a malfunction if streaks and fireflies appear 20 times.

Next, an example of operation when defect count control is executed in the inspection device 200 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of operation when defect count control is executed in the inspection device 200. The process in FIG. 9 is executed as appropriate between step S104 and step S105 in FIG. 5, for example. Note that the control in FIG. 9 is related to defects in a specific printed matter (e.g., fireflies, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 9, the inspection device 200 counts up the number of times defects in the printed matter are detected (step S401). Then, the inspection device 200 determines whether the number of times defects in the printed matter are detected has reached a set number (step S402).

If the result of the determination is that the number of times the malfunction has been detected has not reached the set number (step S402, NO), this control ends. On the other hand, if the number of times the malfunction has been detected has reached the set number (step S402, YES), the inspection device 200 resets the number of times the malfunction has been detected (step S403) and executes the diagnosis process (step S404). After that, this control ends.

This configuration prevents printing control from being switched due to a sudden defect in the printed matter, thereby preventing excessive switching of printing control.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the degree of repair after diagnosis by the diagnosis unit 240 can be confirmed by the user, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the inspection device 200 may be able to automatically confirm the degree of repair. For example, it is preferable to be able to set the degree of repair to be confirmed either automatically by the inspection device 200 or by the user.

Next, an example of the operation of the inspection device 200 when controlling the diagnostic process including automatic checking by the diagnostic unit 240 is described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the inspection device 200 when controlling the diagnostic process. The process in FIG. 10 is appropriately performed, for example, when the inspection device 200 performs the process of step S204 in FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 10, the inspection device 200 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to output a confirmation chart (step S501). After acquiring the read information related to the printout of the confirmation chart, the inspection device 200 determines whether or not the confirmation chart can be automatically repaired (step S502).

If the result of the determination is that automatic repair is not possible (step S502, NO), the inspection device 200 outputs instruction information, for example to a display unit (step S503), and determines whether or not a command to complete the repair has been received (step S504).

If the result of the determination is that a command to complete repairs has not been received (step S504, NO), the process of step S504 is repeated. On the other hand, if a command to complete repairs has been received (step S504, YES), the process transitions to step S506.

Returning to the determination in step S502, if automatic repair is possible (step S502, YES), the inspection device 200 executes the repair process (step S505).

Next, the inspection device 200 outputs a command to the image forming device 1 to output a confirmation chart (step S506). After acquiring the read information related to the printout of the confirmation chart, the inspection device 200 determines whether or not automatic confirmation is set (step S507).

If the result of the determination is that automatic confirmation is not set (step S507, NO), the inspection device 200 determines whether the defect has been repaired (step S508). Note that whether the defect has been repaired is determined, for example, by receiving an operational command from the user regarding whether the defect has been repaired.

If the result of the determination is that the defect has been repaired (step S508, YES), the process proceeds to step S111 in FIG. 5, where the print job is resumed (restart of reprinting). On the other hand, if the defect has not been repaired (step S508, NO), the process proceeds to step S510.

Returning to the determination of step S507, if automatic confirmation is set (step S507, YES), the inspection device 200 determines whether the defect has been repaired by automatic confirmation (step S509).

If the result of the determination is that the defect has been repaired by automatic checking (step S509, YES), the process proceeds to step S111 in FIG. 5, where the print job is resumed (restart reprinting). On the other hand, if the defect has not been repaired by automatic checking (step S509, NO), the inspection device 200 determines whether or not a command to stop printing has been received (step S510).

If the determination result is that a command to cancel printing has not been received (step S510, NO), the process returns to step S501. On the other hand, if a command to cancel printing has been received (step S510, YES), the print job is canceled and this control ends.

With this configuration, the inspection device can automatically check the degree of repair, allowing repair processing to be performed without human intervention, which can contribute to improving productivity and reducing the amount of manpower required.

In addition, in the above embodiment, no mention is made of the degree of defects in the printed matter (inspection level), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to variably set the inspection level for defects in the printed matter, and detect defects in the printed matter when the inspection level is reached.

In this way, depending on the type of paper S, such as high unit price paper, it may be possible to change the inspection level in the inspection device 200 depending on the print job, such as a print job that requires reducing paper waste or a print job that requires a large number of prints and requires reducing interruption time, etc.

Therefore, by allowing the inspection level to be variably set, flexible inspection can be performed according to the convenience of the print job.

In addition, in a configuration in which the inspection level for defects in printed matter can be variably set, the inspection level may be set for each print job, for example, as shown in FIG. 11. In other words, the inspection unit 220 may set the inspection level for each type of defect in printed matter according to the type of print job.

The example shown in FIG. 11 shows that the inspection levels for the size and density difference of dirt can be set for the first, second, and third jobs. For the first job, the size inspection level is set to 5, and the density difference inspection level is set to 5, for the second job, the size inspection level is set to 3, and the density difference inspection level is set to 5, and for the third job, the size inspection level is set to 5, and the density difference inspection level is set to 3. Defects other than dirt are not shown in FIG. 11.

This configuration allows for more appropriate inspection depending on the type of print job. In addition, because the inspection level is set depending on the type of print job, it is possible to eliminate the need to set the inspection level for each print job.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the diagnosis by the diagnosis unit 240 is performed using a specified confirmation chart, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the diagnosis unit 240 may switch the diagnosis content, such as changing the type of confirmation chart, depending on the type of defect in the printed matter.

This configuration allows for more appropriate diagnosis depending on the nature of the problem with the printed matter.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the inspection device is provided as a post-processing device of the image forming device, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the inspection device may be provided in a location separate from the image forming device, or may be a control unit of the image forming device. In this case, the inspection device obtains read information of the printed matter from a reading device such as a scanner, and then inspects the printed matter for defects.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the inspection device outputs a command to switch print control to the image forming device, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the image forming device may obtain the inspection results of the inspection unit and have the function of the switching unit.

In addition, in the above embodiment, a diagnosis unit and a repair unit are provided, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the diagnosis unit and repair unit do not have to be provided, or they may be provided in a device other than the inspection device (e.g., an image forming device, etc.).

In addition, in the above embodiment, the switching unit switches the print control of the image forming unit, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the switching unit may switch control other than the print control of the image forming unit, such as the transport control of the image forming unit.

In addition, the above-mentioned embodiments are merely examples of the realization of the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be interpreted in a limiting manner based on them. In other words, the present invention can be embodied in various forms without departing from its gist or main characteristics.

Reference Signs List 1 Image forming apparatus 2 Post-processing apparatus 40 Image forming section 100 Image forming system 101 Control section 200 Inspection apparatus 210 Acquisition section 220 Inspection section 230 Switching section 240 Diagnosis section 250 Repair section

Claims (26)

An inspection device for a printed matter output by an image forming unit,
an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter;
a switching unit that interrupts the inspection of the printed matter for defects based on the results of the inspection by the inspection unit;
Equipped with
the inspection device performs one of a plurality of controls including a control for resuming the print job being inspected from the interruption causing page that caused the interruption of the inspection for the defect of the printed matter, and a control for not resuming the print job being inspected, after interrupting the inspection for the defect of the printed matter;
Inspection equipment. the switching unit switches print control of the image forming unit based on a previously set and registered pattern;
2. The inspection device according to claim 1. The switching unit switches the print control depending on the type of the print job.
3. The inspection device according to claim 2. the inspection unit sets an inspection level for each type of defect according to the type of the print job.
4. The inspection apparatus according to claim 3. The inspection unit inspects the defects by comparing a reference image with the printed image of the printed matter.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. the inspection unit inspects the defect by comparing management data for managing the printed matter with an inspection area that is a part of a print image of the printed matter;
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The switching unit performs control so as to continue the print job depending on the type of the defect.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. When the inspection unit detects the malfunction, the inspection unit performs a notification process of the malfunction.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The interruption of the inspection of the printed matter for defects is an interruption of the print job.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. the plurality of controls include a control for restarting a print job related to the inspection from a second page that is subsequent to a first page that has been printed when the inspection for defects in the printed matter is interrupted;
10. The inspection device according to claim 1 or 9. The control not to resume the print job is control to cancel the print job.
The inspection device according to claim 1 or 10. a diagnosis unit that diagnoses the malfunction after the switching unit suspends the inspection for the malfunction,
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. a repair unit that performs a repair process for the defect based on a diagnosis result of the diagnosis unit,
13. The inspection apparatus according to claim 12. After the restoration process is performed, the switching unit resumes the print job from the page that caused the print job to be interrupted.
14. The inspection apparatus according to claim 13. The diagnosis unit determines whether or not to diagnose the malfunction depending on the type of the malfunction.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 12 to 14. The diagnosis unit diagnoses the malfunction depending on the number of times the malfunction is detected.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 12 to 15. The diagnostic unit switches the content of the diagnosis depending on the type of the defect.
17. The inspection apparatus according to claim 16. The switching unit reprints a page on the cause of the defect according to the type of the defect.
The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 17. the switching unit interrupts the print job depending on the number of times reprinting has been performed.
20. The inspection apparatus of claim 18. the switching unit switches control of the image forming unit depending on the type of the defect inspected by the inspection unit.
An inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 19. an image forming unit that forms a print by outputting an image onto a recording medium;
an inspection device including an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter, and a switching unit that interrupts the inspection of the printed matter for defects based on the result of the inspection by the inspection unit;
Equipped with
the inspection device performs one of a plurality of controls including a control for resuming the print job being inspected from the interruption causing page that caused the interruption of the inspection for the defect of the printed matter, and a control for not resuming the print job being inspected, after interrupting the inspection for the defect of the printed matter;
Image forming system. An inspection program for a printed matter imaged by an image forming unit,
On the computer,
an inspection process for inspecting the printed matter for defects based on a result of reading the printed matter;
A switching process for interrupting the inspection of the defects in the printed matter based on the results of the inspection process;
a process of performing one of a plurality of controls including, after interrupting the inspection of the defect of the printed matter, control of resuming the print job being inspected from the interruption causing page that caused the interruption of the inspection of the defect of the printed matter, and control of not resuming the print job being inspected;
An inspection program that executes the following: An inspection device for a printed matter output by an image forming unit,
an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter;
a switching unit that switches control of the image forming unit depending on the type of the defect inspected by the inspection unit;
Equipped with
The switching unit is
Switching print control of the image forming unit based on a previously set and registered pattern;
Switching the print control depending on the type of print job;
the inspection unit sets an inspection level for each type of defect according to the type of the print job.
Inspection equipment. An inspection device for a printed matter output by an image forming unit,
an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter;
a switching unit that switches control of the image forming unit in accordance with the type of the defect inspected by the inspection unit and interrupts a print job in accordance with the type of the defect;
a diagnostic unit that diagnoses the malfunction after the switching unit interrupts the print job;
Equipped with
The diagnosis unit determines whether or not to diagnose the malfunction depending on the type of the malfunction.
Inspection equipment. An inspection device for a printed matter output by an image forming unit,
an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter;
a switching unit that switches control of the image forming unit in accordance with the type of the defect inspected by the inspection unit and interrupts a print job in accordance with the type of the defect;
a diagnostic unit that diagnoses the malfunction after the switching unit interrupts the print job;
Equipped with
The diagnosis unit diagnoses the malfunction depending on the number of times the malfunction is detected.
Inspection equipment. An inspection device for a printed matter output by an image forming unit,
an inspection unit that inspects the printed matter for defects based on a reading result of the printed matter;
a switching unit that switches control of the image forming unit depending on the type of the defect inspected by the inspection unit;
Equipped with
The switching unit is
Reprint the page on the cause of the defect according to the type of defect;
Abort the print job depending on the number of reprints.
Inspection equipment.

Images