Inspection system to register image data in inspection apparatus and execution of an inspection job, printing apparatus, method for controlling inspection system

A printing apparatus capable of communicating with at least an inspection apparatus and a processing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising one or more controllers having one or more processors and one or more memories, the one or more controllers configured to receive a registration job for registration of image data in the inspection apparatus and an inspection job for execution of an inspection, to transmit, in a case where the registration job is received, image data based on the registration job to the inspection apparatus, to receive a notification of completion of the registration of the image data from the inspection apparatus, and to perform, in a case where the notification is received, control to perform printing based on the inspection job and to transmit an inspection instruction to the inspection apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an inspection system, a printing apparatus, a method for controlling the inspection system, and a program.

Description of the Related Art

In recent years, printing systems capable of performing an inspection using an inspection apparatus during conveyance of sheets on which printing had been performed by a printing apparatus has been known. In the inspection of the printed sheet, the inspection apparatus scans an image on the conveyed printed sheet and analyzes the scanned image to determine whether the printed sheet is printed normally. More specifically, in the inspection, image data scanned by the inspection apparatus and inspection image data registered in the inspection apparatus are compared with each other. The inspection includes the following processes. First, a user pre-registers an inspection image for use in the inspection in the inspection apparatus. Next, an inspection job is input to the printing apparatus. In the inputting, the user selects an inspection image corresponding to the input inspection job from among inspection images registered in the inspection apparatus. Then, the inspection apparatus can detect, for example, a printing defect by the above-described inspection. A job for pre-registration of an inspection image is referred to as an inspection image registration job, and a print job for inspection of a printed sheet is referred to as an inspection job.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-165020 discusses a method for controlling execution of an inspection image registration job and an inspection job. Specifically, an image scan start instruction and an image scan end instruction are received from a user in each of the inspection image registration job and the inspection job.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present invention, a printing apparatus capable of communicating with at least an inspection apparatus and a processing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising one or more controllers having one or more processors and one or more memories, the one or more controllers configured to receive a registration job for registration of image data in the inspection apparatus and an inspection job for execution of an inspection, to transmit, in a case where the registration job is received, image data based on the registration job to the inspection apparatus, to receive a notification of completion of the registration of the image data from the inspection apparatus, and to perform, in a case where the notification is received, control to perform printing based on the inspection job and to transmit an inspection instruction to the inspection apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. It should be noted that the below-described exemplary embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention and that not all combinations of features described in the exemplary embodiments are always essential to a technical solution provided by the present invention.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an external controller will sometimes be referred to as “image processing controller”, “digital front end (DFE)”, or “print server”. An image forming apparatus will sometimes be referred to as “copy machine” or “multi-function peripheral” (MFP).

FIG.1is an overall diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an image processing system according to the present exemplary embodiment. The image processing system is also referred to as “inspection system” or “printing system” and includes an image forming apparatus101and an external controller102. The image forming apparatus101and the external controller102are connected with each other to perform communication via an internal local area network (LAN)105and a video cable106. The external controller102is connected to a client personal computer (PC)103to perform communication via an external LAN104, and the client PC103issues print instructions to the external controller102.

A printer driver including a function of converting print data into a print description language processable by the external controller102is installed in the client PC103. A user to perform printing can issue a print instruction from various applications via the printer driver. The printer driver transmits print data to the external controller102based on a print instruction from the user. In a case where the external controller102receives a print instruction from the client PC103, the external controller102performs data analysis and rasterization processing, inputs print data to the image forming apparatus101, and issues a print instruction to the image forming apparatus101.

Next, the image forming apparatus101will be described below. A plurality of apparatuses with different functions is connected to the image forming apparatus101and is configured to perform complicated print processing, such as bookbinding. Not all of the apparatuses including a printing apparatus107, an inserter108, an inspection apparatus109, a stacker (large-capacity stacker)110, and a finisher111are essential to the image forming apparatus101.

The printing apparatus107forms a toner image on a recording sheet (sheet) conveyed from a sheet feeding unit disposed at a lower portion of the printing apparatus107. According to the present exemplary embodiment, a printed recording sheet on which an image has been formed is referred to as “printed material”. A configuration and an operation principle of the printing apparatus107are as described below.

A light beam, such as laser light, modulated based on image data is reflected by a rotary polygonal mirror, such as a polygon mirror, and the reflected light as scan light illuminates a photosensitive drum. An electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum by the laser light is developed with toner, and the toner image is transferred to a sheet attached to a transfer drum. The foregoing image forming process is sequentially performed using yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toners, whereby a full-color image is formed on the sheet. The sheet, on which the full-color image has been formed, on the transfer drum is conveyed to a fixing device. The fixing device includes a roller, a belt, and a built-in heat source, such as a halogen heater, in the roller. The fixing device melts the toners of the transferred toner images on the recording sheet and fixes the toners to the recording sheet with heat and pressure.

The inserter108is an inserter for inserting an insertion sheet. An insertion sheet can be inserted from the inserter108to a position in a set of sheets that have been printed by the printing apparatus107and conveyed.

The inspection apparatus109is an apparatus that scans an image on a conveyed sheet and performs determination of whether the printed image is normal, by comparing the scanned image with an inspection image registered in advance.

The stacker110is a large-capacity stacker on which a large amount of sheets can be stacked.

The finisher111is a finisher that performs finishing processing on conveyed sheets. The finisher111can perform finishing, such as stapling, punching, and saddle stitch bookbinding, and the finisher111discharges sheets to a sheet discharge tray.

While the printing system illustrated inFIG.1is configured in such a manner that the external controller102is connected to the image forming apparatus101, the present exemplary embodiment is not limited to the configuration with the external controller102being connected. Specifically, the image forming apparatus101can be connected to the external LAN104, and the client PC103can transmit print data processable by the image forming apparatus101. In this case, the image forming apparatus101performs data analysis, rasterization processing, and print processing.

FIG.2is a block diagram illustrating a system configuration of the image forming apparatus101, the external controller102, and the client PC103.

First, a configuration of the printing apparatus107of the image forming apparatus101will be described below. The printing apparatus107of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication interface (I/F)217, a LAN I/F218, a video I/F220, a hard disk drive (HDD)221, a central processing unit (CPU)222, a memory223, an operation unit224, and a display225. The printing apparatus107of the image forming apparatus101further includes a document exposure unit226, a laser exposure unit227, an imaging unit228, a fixing unit229, and a sheet feeding unit230. The foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus231.

The communication I/F217is connected to the inserter108, the inspection apparatus109, the large-capacity stacker110, and the finisher111via a communication cable254to perform communication for control of the inserter108, the inspection apparatus109, the large-capacity stacker110, and the finisher111.

The LAN I/F218is connected to the external controller102via the internal LAN105to communicate print data and the like.

The video I/F220is connected to the external controller102via the video cable106to communicate image data and the like.

The HDD221is a storage device storing programs and data.

The CPU222comprehensively controls image processing and printing based on programs stored in the HDD221.

The memory223stores programs for various types of processing, which is performed by the CPU222, and image data and operates as a work area.

The operation unit224receives various settings input by the user and operation instructions from the user.

The display225displays setting information about an image processing apparatus and a print job processing status.

The document exposure unit226performs document reading processing when a copy function or a scan function is used. The document exposure unit226reads document data by capturing an image of a sheet placed by the user with a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera while illuminating the sheet with an exposure lamp.

The laser exposure unit227is an apparatus that performs primary charging to illuminate the photosensitive drum with laser light to transfer a toner image and performs laser exposure. The laser exposure unit227first performs primary charging to charge a surface of the photosensitive drum to a uniform negative potential. Next, a laser driver illuminates the photosensitive drum with laser light reflected from the polygon mirror at adjusted angles. The negative charges on the illuminated portion is neutralized by the laser light, and an electrostatic latent image is formed.

The imaging unit228is a device for transferring toner to a sheet. The imaging unit228includes a development unit, a transfer unit, and a toner supply unit and transfers toner on the photosensitive drum to a sheet.

In the development unit, negatively-charged toner from a development cylinder is attached to an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum to visualize the electrostatic latent image. The transfer unit performs primary transfer and secondary transfer. In the primary transfer, a positive potential is applied to a primary transfer roller, and toner on the surface of the photosensitive drum is transferred to a transfer belt. In the secondary transfer, a positive potential is applied to a secondary transfer external roller, and the toner on the transfer belt is transferred to a sheet.

The fixing unit229is a device for melting and fixing toner on a sheet with heat and pressure and includes a heating heater, a fixing belt, and a pressing belt.

The sheet feeding unit230is a device for feeding sheets. Operations of feeding and conveying of sheets are controlled using rollers and various sensors.

Next, a configuration of the inserter108of the image forming apparatus101will be described below. The inserter108of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication I/F232, a CPU233, a memory234, and a sheet feeding control unit235, and the foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus236.

The communication I/F232is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254to perform communication for control.

The CPU233performs various types of control for feeding of sheets, based on control programs stored in the memory234. The memory234is a storage device storing control programs.

The sheet feeding control unit235controls feeding and conveying of sheets conveyed from a sheet feeding unit of the inserter108or from the printing apparatus107while controlling rollers and sensors based on instructions from the CPU233.

Next, a configuration of the inspection apparatus109of the image forming apparatus101will be described below. The inspection apparatus109of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication I/F237, a CPU238, a memory239, an image capturing unit240, a display unit241, an operation unit242, and a HDD255, and the foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus243.

The communication I/F237is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254to perform communication for control.

The CPU238performs various types of control for an inspection based on control programs stored in the memory239.

The memory239is a storage device storing control programs.

The image capturing unit240captures images of conveyed sheets based on instructions from the CPU238. The CPU238compares an image captured by the image capturing unit240and an inspection image stored in the HDD255or the memory239and determines whether the printed image is normal.

The display unit241displays an inspection result and a setting screen.

The operation unit242is operated by the user and receives instructions to change settings of the inspection apparatus109and instructions to register an inspection image.

The HDD255stores inspection image data together with identification information, such as an inspection image identification (ID).

Next, a configuration of the large-capacity stacker110of the image forming apparatus101will be described below. The large-capacity stacker110of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication I/F244, a CPU245, a memory246, and a sheet discharge control unit247, and the foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus248.

The communication I/F244is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254to perform communication for control.

The CPU245performs various types of control for discharging of sheets based on control programs stored in the memory246.

The memory246is a storage device storing control programs.

The sheet discharge control unit247controls conveying of sheets based on an instruction from the CPU245to convey the conveyed sheet to an escape tray346or the subsequent apparatuses, such as the finisher111.

Next, a configuration of the finisher111of the image forming apparatus101will be described below. The finisher111of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication I/F249, a CPU250, a memory251, a sheet discharge control unit252, and a finishing processing unit253, and the foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus256.

The communication I/F249is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254to perform communication for control.

The CPU250performs various types of control for finishing and discharging of sheets based on control programs stored in the memory251.

The memory251is a storage device storing control programs. The sheet discharge control unit252controls conveying and discharging of sheets based on instructions from the CPU250. The finishing processing unit253controls finishing processing, such as stapling, punching, and saddle stitch bookbinding, based on instructions from the CPU250.

Next, a configuration of the external controller102will be described below. The external controller102includes a CPU208, a memory209, a HDD210, a keyboard211, a display212, a LAN I/F213, a LAN I/F214, and a video I/F215, and the foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus216.

The CPU208comprehensively performs processing, such as print data reception from the client PC103, raster image processing (RIP), and print data transmission to the image forming apparatus101, based on programs and data stored in the HDD210.

The memory209stores programs and data for various types of processing, which is performed by the CPU208, and operates as a work area.

The HDD210stores programs and data for operations, such as print processing.

The keyboard211is a device for inputting operation instructions to the external controller102.

The display212displays information about an executed application of the external controller102by using video signals of still images and moving images.

The LAN I/F213is connected to the client PC103via the external LAN104to communicate print instructions.

The LAN I/F214is connected to the image forming apparatus101via the internal LAN105to communicate print instructions. The video I/F215is connected to the image forming apparatus101via the video cable106to communicate print data.

Next, a configuration of the client PC103will be described below. The client PC103includes a CPU201, a memory202, a HDD203, a keyboard204, a display205, and a LAN I/F206, and the foregoing components are connected with each other via a system bus207.

The CPU201generates print data and issues print instructions based on document processing programs stored in the HDD203. Further, the CPU201comprehensively controls the devices connected to the system bus207.

The memory202stores programs and data for various types of processing, which is performed by the CPU201, and operates as a work area.

The HDD203stores programs and data for operations, such as print processing.

The keyboard204is a device for inputting operation instructions to the client PC103.

The display205displays information about an executed application of the client PC103using video signals of still images and moving images.

The LAN I/F206is connected to the external LAN104to communicate print instructions.

While the internal LAN105and the video cable106are connected to the external controller102and the image forming apparatus101in the above-described configuration, any configurations that enable transmission and reception of data for printing can be used. For example, only the video cable106can be used for the connection. The memories202,209,223,234,239,246, and251can each be a storage device for holding data and programs. For example, a volatile random access memory (RAM), a non-volatile read-only memory (ROM), a built-in HDD, an external HDD, or a universal serial bus (USB) memory can be used as a substitute.

FIG.3is a mechanical cross-sectional view illustrating the image forming apparatus101illustrated inFIG.1. The printing apparatus107forms images to be printed on sheets. In the image forming apparatus101, sheet feeding decks301and302are disposed. The sheet feeding decks301and302can store various sheets. Information (sheet size, sheet type) about sheets stored in the sheet feeding decks301and302can be set via the operation unit224of the printing apparatus107.

An uppermost sheet among sheets stored in the sheet feeding decks301and302is separated from the other sheets and conveyed to a sheet conveyance path303.

Development stations304to307form toner images using color toners Y, M, C, and K to form a color image. The formed toner images are primarily transferred to an intermediate transfer belt308, and the intermediate transfer belt308is rotated in a clockwise direction inFIG.3. At a secondary transfer position309, the toner images are transferred to a sheet conveyed from the sheet conveyance path303.

The display225displays a printing status of the image forming apparatus101and information for settings.

A fixing unit311fixes the toner images to the sheet. The fixing unit311includes a pressing roller and a heating roller, and when the sheet passes between the pressing roller and the heating roller, the toners are melted and pressed, whereby the toner images are fixed to the sheet. The sheet having passed through the fixing unit311is conveyed through a sheet conveyance path312to a sheet conveyance path315.

In a case where further melting and pressing for fixing is needed because of the type of the sheet, the sheet having passed through the fixing unit311is conveyed through the above-described sheet conveyance paths to a second fixing unit313, undergoes further melting and pressing, and is then conveyed through a sheet conveyance path314to the sheet conveyance path315.

In a case where an image forming mode is two-sided, the sheet is conveyed to a sheet reversing path316, reversed by the sheet reversing path316, and conveyed to a two-sided conveyance path317, and the image transfer to a second side of the sheet is performed at the secondary transfer position309.

The inserter108is an inserter for inserting an insertion sheet. The inserter108includes an inserter tray321and causes a sheet fed through a sheet conveyance path322to join the conveyance path. Consequently, the insertion sheet is inserted to a desired position in a sheet set conveyed from the printing apparatus107and is conveyed together with the sheet set to a subsequent apparatus.

The printed material (sheet) having passed through the inserter108is conveyed to the inspection apparatus109. In the inspection apparatus109, cameras331and332are disposed to face each other. The camera331is a camera for scanning an upper surface of the printed material, and the camera332is a camera for scanning a lower surface of the printed material.

The inspection apparatus109scans images on the sheet using the cameras331and332at a timing at which the sheet conveyed to a sheet conveyance path333reaches a predetermined position, and determines whether the images scanned by the inspection apparatus109are normal. The display unit241displays a result of the inspection performed by the inspection apparatus109.

The large-capacity stacker110is a stacker on which a large amount of sheets can be stacked. The large-capacity stacker110includes a stacking tray341as a tray for stacking sheets. The sheet having passed through the inspection apparatus109is input to the large-capacity stacker110through a sheet conveyance path344. The sheet is conveyed through a sheet conveyance path345from the sheet conveyance path344and then stacked on the stacking tray341.

The stacker110further includes the escape tray346as a sheet discharge tray. The escape tray346is a sheet discharge tray that is used to discharge sheets determined as defective sheets by the inspection apparatus109. In a case where a sheet is to be output to the escape tray346, the sheet is conveyed through a sheet conveyance path347from the sheet conveyance path344to the escape tray346. In a case where a sheet is to be conveyed to a post-processing apparatus subsequent to the large-capacity stacker110, the sheet is conveyed through a sheet conveyance path348.

A reversing portion349reverses the sheet. The reversing portion349is used when the sheet is stacked on the stacking tray341. In a case where the sheet is to be stacked on the stacking tray341, the sheet is reversed by the reversing portion349, so that an orientation of the sheet at the time of output corresponds to an orientation of the sheet at the time of input. In a case where the sheet is to be conveyed to the escape tray346or the subsequent post-processing apparatus, since the sheet is to be discharged without being flipped in stacking, the reversing operation by the reversing portion349is not performed.

The finisher111applies finishing processing to the conveyed sheet based on a function designated by the user. Specifically, the finisher111includes finishing functions, such as stapling (single position, double positions), punching (two holes, three holes), and saddle stitch bookbinding.

The finisher111includes two sheet discharge trays351and352, and a sheet is output to the sheet discharge tray351through a sheet conveyance path353. The finishing processing, such as stapling, cannot be performed through the sheet conveyance path353. In a case where the finishing processing, such as stapling, is to be performed, the sheet is conveyed through a sheet conveyance path354, and a processing unit355performs the finishing function designated by the user. Then, the resulting sheet is output to the sheet discharge tray352.

Because the sheet discharge trays351and352can each be moved upward and downward, the sheet discharge tray351can be moved downward to stack the sheet having undergone the finishing processing by the processing unit355on the sheet discharge tray351. In a case where the saddle stitch bookbinding is designated, a saddle stitch processing unit356staples in a center of the sheet and then folds the stapled sheet in half, and the resulting sheet is conveyed through a sheet conveyance path357and is output to a saddle stitch bookbinding tray358. The saddle stitch bookbinding tray358has a belt-conveyor configuration, and the saddle-stitch bound sheets stacked on the saddle stitch bookbinding tray358are conveyed leftward.

FIG.4Ais a software configuration diagram illustrating the printing apparatus107that relates to the inspection of the printing system. The software configuration is realized by the CPU222developing programs and data stored in the HDD221on the memory223and executing the developed programs and data.

A job control unit401analyzes details of a job transmitted from the external controller102. Information about settings configured for a received job is added to the job, and the job control unit401analyzes the information and transmits a processing request together with setting information to a subsequent appropriate program.

An image generation unit402converts a document associated with the job transmitted from the external controller102into image data. The image generation unit402performs processing to generate an image based on a job type, such as a print job and a storing job, and job settings. An inspection image to be registered in the inspection apparatus109, which will be described below, is also generated by the image generation unit402.

An image storage unit403performs processing to convert a document transmitted from the external controller102into an image and store the image in the HDD221. While a print job normally does not involve storing of an image, the processing of temporarily storing an image in the HDD221is performed in a case where the image is stored in the printing apparatus107and thereafter is selected via the operation unit224of the printing apparatus107and printed and also in a case where an inspection image is to be registered in the inspection apparatus109.

An inspection apparatus communication unit404is a processing unit that communicates data with the inspection apparatus109. The inspection apparatus communication unit404detects temporary storage of an inspection image for inspection in the HDD221and transmits an inspection image stored in the inspection apparatus109. Further, the inspection apparatus communication unit404issues an inspection start instruction to the inspection apparatus109also in a case where the inspection processing is to be performed.

An image printing unit405is part of the printing apparatus107that performs printing. The image printing unit405performs printing based on a job transmitted from the external controller102.

FIG.4Bis a software configuration diagram illustrating the inspection apparatus109that relates to the inspection of the printing system. The software configuration is realized by the CPU238developing programs and data stored in the HDD255on the memory239and executing the developed programs and data.

An inspection image reception unit406receives an inspection image transmitted from the inspection apparatus communication unit404.

An inspection image storage unit407stores an inspection image received by the inspection image reception unit406together with identification information, such as an inspection image ID, in the HDD255.

A scanned image acquisition unit408captures an image of a conveyed sheet with the image capturing unit240and acquires a read scanned image.

An image inspection unit409performs inspection by comparing a scanned image and an inspection image. The scanned image is a scanned image acquired by the scanned image acquisition unit408, and the inspection image is an inspection image that is stored in the inspection image storage unit407and corresponds to the scanned image. The image inspection unit409can perform inspection by extracting feature amounts of the scanned image and the inspection image and comparing the extracted feature amounts.

An inspection job control unit410performs determination of whether an inspection image for use in inspection processing is registered in the inspection image storage unit407. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the determination of whether an inspection image for use in inspection processing is registered in the inspection image storage unit407is performed using identification information, such as an inspection image ID, in a case where an inspection start instruction inquiry is received from the printing apparatus107.

FIG.5illustrates an example of a job setting screen that is displayed on the display212of the external controller102when inspection and inspection image registration are performed. The print settings can be considered as an example of a screen of the printer driver that is installed in the client PC103and supports the image forming apparatus101. The user to perform printing opens the screen via various applications and can issue a print instruction.

A print setting screen501includes a textbox502for designating a page range and textboxes and menus502to509for designating print settings to be applied to the page range designated in the textbox502. On the print setting screen501, for example, the number of copies, sheet feeding unit, one-sided/two-sided, sheet type, printing orientation, job annotation, and binding position can be designated.

A number-of-copies textbox503is a textbox for designating the number of copies of the page range designated in the textbox502.

A sheet feeding unit pull-down menu504is a menu for selection of a sheet feeding unit from which sheets are to be fed among the decks of the sheet feeding unit230. InFIG.5, automatic is selected as an example.

A one-sided/two-sided pull-down menu505is a menu for selection of one-sided printing or two-sided printing. InFIG.5, one-sided printing is selected as an example.

A sheet type pull-down menu506is a menu for selection of a sheet type, such as normal sheet and thick sheet. InFIG.5, normal sheet is selected as an example.

A printing orientation pull-down menu507is a menu for selection of portrait or landscape.

A job annotation textbox508is a textbox for inputting of an annotation about the job.

A binding position pull-down menu509is a menu for designating a binding position, and upper left, upper right, lower left, or lower right can be selected.

An inspection setting510is a selection item for designation of whether to perform inspection processing. In a case where ON is selected, the job is determined as an inspection target job, and in a case where OFF is selected, the job is determined as a normal job without performing an inspection.

An inspection image registration item511indicates a status of inspection image registration in the inspection apparatus109, and the status can be selected. In a case where there is not even one inspection record, “unregistered” is selected, and in a case where an inspection job is previously performed at least once, “registered” is selected. The inspection image registration item511can be controlled to display a pre-selected state. Specifically, for example, a log of previously-performed inspection jobs is stored in the HDD210of the external controller102, and various application programs, such as the printer driver, are controlled to determine “unregistered” or “registered”. In a case where a job is previously inspected and an inspection image is to be registered explicitly for the same job, the user can select “unregistered” of the inspection image registration item511. While the options of the inspection image registration item511inFIG.5are “registered” and “unregistered”, descriptions of the options of the inspection image registration item511are not limited, and the options can be “register inspection image” and “not register inspection image”.

An OK button512is to complete the print settings and perform print processing. In response to pressing of a cancel button513, the print settings and the print processing are canceled.

FIG.6illustrates an example of a diagram of structured information set on the job setting screen inFIG.5.

Components for forming a job are assembled together into a single piece by structuring information. The structured information can be transmitted from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107.

Job information601indicates data on information about how a document to be input as the job is to be processed, and includes information about each item of the print setting screen501and information added as a default.

Medium-to-be-printed information602on the fourth line inFIG.6indicates information about a sheet to be printed.

Setting values, such as the sheet type selected in the sheet type pull-down menu506, are configured in the Medium-to-be-printed information602.

Inspection setting information603on the eleventh line inFIG.6indicates information about inspection settings. A setting value of the inspection setting510and a setting value selected as the inspection image registration item511inFIG.5are configured in the inspection setting information603.

As described above, the structured information obtained by structuring all pieces of information, such as the print settings, is added as part of print job data, and the print job data with the added structured information is transmitted from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107. According to an aspect of the present invention, a print job includes at least the structured information illustrated as an example inFIG.6and a document (image) to be printed.

FIG.15is a diagram illustrating a procedure of data communication between the apparatuses according to a first exemplary embodiment.

In step S1501, the external controller102transmits a print job to the printing apparatus107. The print job herein includes an image (document) to be printed and job information about printing of the image that is illustrated as an example inFIG.6. Jobs include an inspection image registration job for a process of registering an inspection image in the inspection apparatus109, a normal job for printing using the printing apparatus107, and an inspection job for printing using the printing apparatus107and inspecting the printed document using the inspection apparatus109. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the term “print job” is a generic term for a job that includes both an inspection image registration job and an inspection job, a job that includes only an inspection job, or a job that includes only a normal job.

In step S1502, the printing apparatus107having received the print job including the inspection image registration job from the external controller102transmits inspection image data to the inspection apparatus109. Consequently, processing of registering the received inspection image data is performed in the inspection apparatus109. The inspection image registration processing in the inspection apparatus109will be described below with reference toFIG.8.

In step S1503, the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection image registration completion notification to the printing apparatus107.

In step S1504, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection image registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus109performs printing based on the print job received in step S1501.

In step S1505, in a case where the received print job includes an inspection job, the printing apparatus107transmits an inspection instruction (inspection start instruction) to the inspection apparatus109. The inspection instruction herein is an instruction including an inspection image ID corresponding to the printed material to be inspected. Alternatively, information from which the inspection image is identifiable can be used instead of the inspection image ID. The inspection image registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus109can serve as a trigger to perform steps S1504and S1505simultaneously, or step S1504can be performed following step S1505.

In step S1506, the inspection apparatus109performs inspection processing. The inspection processing by the inspection apparatus109will be described below with reference toFIG.9.

In step S1507, the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection result notification to the printing apparatus107.

In step S1508, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection result from the inspection apparatus109transmits a printing completion notification to the external controller102. In step S1509, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection result from the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection completion notification (inspection end notification) to the inspection apparatus109. The inspection result notification from the inspection apparatus109can serve as a trigger to perform steps S1508and S1509simultaneously, or step S1508can be performed following step S1509.

A procedure of performing the inspection image registration processing and the inspection processing in the image processing system (inspection system) according to the present exemplary embodiment is as described above. The inspection image registration processing and the inspection processing in each apparatus will be described below.

FIG.7is a flowchart illustrating the inspection processing and the inspection image registration processing by the printing apparatus107after the job that is set on the print setting screen501inFIG.5is received. The process inFIG.7is performed by the CPU208of the printing apparatus107. The process inFIG.7will be described below with reference to the software configuration diagram inFIG.4A.

The flowchart inFIG.7is started in a case where the printing apparatus107receives a print job including an image (document) to be printed and job information about printing of the image as illustrated as an example inFIG.6from the external controller102. The print job does not have to be transmitted collectively from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107. For example, the transmission can be performed in two steps. Specifically, first, the job information is transmitted from the external controller102, and then in a case where the external controller102receives an image reception request from the printing apparatus107, the external controller102transmits the image.

In step S701, the job control unit401analyzes the job information transmitted from the external controller102. For example, the structured information illustrated inFIG.6is analyzed. While the data structured as illustrated inFIG.6is described as an example according to the present exemplary embodiment, the data to be analyzed inFIGS.6and7is not limited to the structured information.

In step S702, the job control unit401determines whether the job is an inspection job, based on a result of the analysis in step S701. In a case where the job control unit401determines that the job is not an inspection job, based on a result of the analysis (NO in step S702), the processing proceeds to step S703. In step S703, the job is processed as a normal job. The normal job refers to a job for execution of printing and is not an inspection target job involving storing of a document or an image. On the other hand, in a case where the job control unit401determines that the job is an inspection job (YES in step S702), the processing proceeds to step S704.

In step S704, the job control unit401determines whether an inspection image has been registered as a result of the analysis in step S701. In a case where the job control unit401determines that an inspection image has been registered, as a result of the analysis (YES in step S704), the processing proceeds to step S705. On the other hand, the job control unit401determines that an inspection image has not been registered (NO in step S704), the processing proceeds to step S709. In step S709, the inspection image registration processing is started.

In step S705, an inspection start instruction inquiry is transmitted to the inspection apparatus109. Specifically, the inspection instruction contains inspection image ID information corresponding to the document to be inspected. While the inspection image ID is used in the description of the present exemplary embodiment, any identification information from which the inspection image corresponding to the document to be inspected is identifiable can be used. Operations of the inspection apparatus109having received the inspection start instruction inquiry will be described below with reference toFIG.13.

In step S706, the job control unit401determines whether the inspection job can be performed is determined. A result of the inspection start instruction inquiry to the inspection apparatus109in step S705is checked, or determination of whether an inspection image registration completion notification is received in step S713is determined. In a case where the job control unit401determines that the inspection job can be performed (YES in step S706), the processing proceeds to step S708.

In step S708, the inspection job is performed. Specifically, the image printing unit405prints the entire inspection target job. Then, the process ends.

On the other hand, in a case where the printing cannot be started (NO in step S706), the processing proceeds to step S707. In step S707, alternative processing is performed. A possible reason why the printing cannot be started is a case where the corresponding inspection image is not in the inspection apparatus109due to deletion of the inspection image registered in the inspection apparatus109although the inspection has previously been performed. Another possible case where it is determined that the printing cannot be started is a case where the printing apparatus107and the inspection apparatus109cannot properly communicate with each other as a result of the inspection start instruction in step S705.

In the alternative processing, the processing can return to step S704, and after the job control unit401determines that no inspection image is registered, the processing can proceed to the inspection image registration processing. Then, after an inspection image is registered, the printing can be started. Alternatively, after a notification is transmitted to the external controller102and an error screen is displayed, a job can be input again based on a user instruction. Alternatively, the operation unit224of the printing apparatus107can display an error and prompt the user to specify whether to perform the inspection image registration or to cancel the printing.

In step S710, the image generation unit402generates an inspection image based on data transmitted from the external controller102. Generation of an inspection image is different from generation of an image of a normal print job or a storing job in that the processing for inspection images for inspection includes color conversion and is performed at a low resolution and at an increased compression rate, for example.

The processing for inspection images is to improve the performance of transmission to the inspection apparatus109.

In step S711, the inspection image generated by the image generation unit402is temporarily stored in a specific area of the HDD221.

In step S712, the inspection apparatus communication unit404detects the storing of the inspection image in the HDD221and transmits the inspection image to the inspection apparatus109. In transmitting the inspection image to the inspection apparatus109, an inspection image ID associated with an inspection target document can be transmitted together with the inspection image. In a case where the processing is performed on the last page, a notification notifying that the page is the last page is simultaneously transmitted.

In step S713, the inspection apparatus communication unit404receives a registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus109, and the process is repeated until the last page. In a case where a notification notifying that the last inspection image is registered is received, similarly, the inspection image registration processing is ended, and the processing proceeds to step S706.

In a case where the inspection image registration processing is ended in step S713, a notification can be transmitted from the printing apparatus107to the external controller102, and in a case where a job is received from the external controller102, the processing can proceed to step S701.

While the inspection image registration and the inspection processing are collectively performed in the procedure according to the present exemplary embodiment, the operations can be divided in such a manner that after the inspection image registration, the print setting screen501inFIG.5is displayed again to set the inspection image registration to “registered” and a job is input again.

FIG.13is a flowchart illustrating a process that is performed by the inspection apparatus109in a case where an inspection start instruction inquiry is transmitted to the inspection apparatus109in step S705inFIG.7. The flowchart is started in a case where an inspection start instruction inquiry from the printing apparatus107is received.

In step S1301, the inspection job control unit410of the inspection apparatus109receives information about the inspection start instruction inquiry.

In step S1302, a search is performed to determine whether an inspection image is registered, using the inspection image ID included in the information received in step S1301. Specifically, the inspection job control unit410performs a search to determine whether an inspection image corresponding to the inspection image ID has been registered in the inspection image storage unit407.

In step S1303, determination for a result of the search in step S1302is performed. In a case where the inspection job control unit410determines that an inspection image corresponding to the inspection image ID has been registered (YES in step S1303), the processing proceeds to step S1304.

On the other hand, in a case where the inspection job control unit410determines that an inspection image corresponding to the inspection image ID has not been registered (NO in step S1303), the processing proceeds to step S1305.

In step S1304, information indicating that the inspection can be started is transmitted to the printing apparatus107.

In step S1305, information indicating that the inspection cannot be started is transmitted to the printing apparatus107.

Contents of the information to be transmitted can be any information that specifies whether the inspection can or cannot be started, and details of the contents are not limited. The transmitted information is received by the inspection apparatus communication unit404of the printing apparatus107.

FIG.8is a flowchart illustrating the inspection image registration processing by the inspection apparatus109in a case where an inspection image is transmitted to the inspection apparatus109in step S712inFIG.7. The process in the flowchart is started in a case where the first page is received.

In step S801, the following process is continued until the inspection apparatus109receives information indicating the last image of the inspection image in step S712from the printing apparatus107.

In step S802, the inspection apparatus109receives the image transmitted from the printing apparatus107in step S712.

In step S803, the inspection apparatus109restores the received image to an image that can be used in the inspection. This is because special compression for transmission is performed on the inspection image received in step S802.

In step S804, the restored image is registered as an inspection image in the inspection apparatus109. In registering the inspection image, identification information, such as an inspection image ID, associated with an inspection target document is also registered together with the inspection image.

In step S805, a registration completion notification is transmitted to the printing apparatus107. In a case where registration of the last image is completed, a notification of information indicating the completion is also transmitted, and the process is ended.

FIG.9is an operation flowchart illustrating basic operations of the inspection apparatus109during the inspection.

In step S901, in response to receipt of an inspection start instruction transmitted in step S705inFIG.7, the cameras331and332are activated, and the processing of comparing a scanned image and an inspection image is performed.

Next, the processing proceeds to step S902. In step S902, in a case where there is an inspection target sheet, the processing proceeds to step S903.

In step S903, an image on the sheet is scanned using the cameras331and332.

Next, in step S904, an inspection image stored in the memory239and the image scanned in step S903are compared. The inspection image is registered and stored in the memory239in the processing of the flowchart inFIG.8. In the comparison operation, first, image positions on the inspection image and the inspection target scanned image are aligned with each other using feature points of the images as alignment reference points. Next, four corners of the sheet of the inspection target scanned image and the alignment reference points of the scanned image are analyzed, and whether there is a misalignment of the image with respect to the sheet is determined. Next, density values of the inspection image and the inspection target scanned image are compared pixel by pixel. In a case where no defects are detected as a result of the foregoing processing, it is determined that the inspection result is OK. Alternatively, an operation of extracting feature points of the images and comparing the extracted feature points can be performed.

In step S905, the CPU238checks the inspection result in step S904.

In a case where the CPU238determines that the inspection result is OK (YES in step S905), the processing proceeds to step S906. On the other hand in a case where the inspection result is NG (NO in step S905), the processing proceeds to step S907.

In step S906, for example, an instruction to discharge the sheet to the stacking tray341of the large-capacity stacker110is issued.

In step S907, for example, an instruction to discharge the sheet to the escape tray346of the large-capacity stacker110is issued.

Steps S902to S907are repeated until all the sheets are inspected. In a case where all the sheets are inspected, the procedure is ended.

While, in the above-described example, the sheet is conveyed to the finisher111in a case where the inspection result is OK whereas the sheet is discharged to the escape tray346in a case where the inspection result is NG, a sheet discharge destination can be changed based on a user instruction or print settings, and forms thereof are not limited.

As described above, the printing apparatus107analyzes the information added to the received job, and in a case where the inspection image registration is necessary, first, an inspection image is registered, and then the inspection is performed, whereby the inspection operation is efficiently performed.

According to the first exemplary embodiment, the job transmission from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107is performed as a print job before the inspection image registration processing is performed. Alternatively, an inspection image registration job and an inspection job can be transmitted at different timings from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107. According to a second exemplary embodiment, a procedure of a case in which an inspection image registration job and an inspection job are separately input to the printing apparatus107will be described below.

FIG.16is a diagram illustrating a procedure of data communication between the apparatuses according to the second exemplary embodiment.FIG.16illustrates a procedure of a case where the inspection setting510is “ON” and the inspection image registration item511is “unregistered” on the print setting screen501inFIG.5.

In step S1601, the external controller102transmits an inspection image registration job to the printing apparatus107.

In step S1602, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection image registration job from the external controller102transmits inspection image data to the inspection apparatus109. Consequently, the processing of registering the received inspection image data is performed in the inspection apparatus109. The inspection image registration processing by the inspection apparatus109is similar to the inspection image registration processing according to the first exemplary embodiment described above with reference toFIG.8.

In step S1603, the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection image registration completion notification to the printing apparatus107.

In step S1604, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection image registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection image registration completion notification to the external controller102.

In step S1605, the external controller102having received the inspection image registration completion notification transmits an inspection job to the printing apparatus107. The processing of transmitting an inspection image registration job and an inspection job by the external controller102will be described below with reference toFIG.14.

In step S1606, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection job from the external controller102performs printing based on the received inspection job.

In step S1607, the printing apparatus107transmits an inspection instruction (inspection start instruction) to the inspection apparatus109. The inspection image registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus109can serve as a trigger to perform steps S1606and S1607simultaneously, or step S1606can be performed following step S1607.

In step S1608, the inspection apparatus109performs the inspection processing. The inspection processing by the inspection apparatus109is similar to the inspection processing according to the first exemplary embodiment described above with reference toFIG.9.

In step S1609, the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection result notification to the printing apparatus107.

In step S1610, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection result from the inspection apparatus109transmits a printing completion notification to the external controller102. In step S1611, the printing apparatus107having received the inspection result from the inspection apparatus109transmits an inspection end notification to the inspection apparatus109. The inspection result notification from the inspection apparatus109can serve as a trigger to perform steps S1610and S1611simultaneously, or step S1610can be performed following step S1611.

The procedure of the inspection image registration processing and the inspection processing by the image processing system according to the present exemplary embodiment is as described above. The inspection image registration processing and the inspection processing in each apparatus will be described below.

FIG.14is a flowchart illustrating a job input process by the external controller102in transmitting an inspection image registration job and an inspection job from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107. The procedure is started in a case where a print instruction to perform the inspection image registration and the inspection is received from the user via the print setting screen501displayed on the display212of the external controller102.

In step S1401, whether the inspection image is unregistered on the print setting screen501inFIG.5is determined.

In a case where it is determined that the inspection image registration item511is set to “unregistered” (YES in step S1401), the processing proceeds to step S1402. On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that the inspection image registration item511is set to “registered” (NO in step S1401), the processing proceeds to step S1405.

In step S1402, the inspection target image is converted into a low-resolution image, and the low-resolution image is input as an inspection image registration job. Converting into a low resolution image is useful for improvement in the performance in inputting a job and transmitting an inspection image and registering the inspection image in the inspection system. Converting into the low resolution can be performed in response to inputting of an inspection image job from the external controller102or can be performed in the printing apparatus107after the inspection target image is transmitted from the external controller102to the printing apparatus107.

In steps S1403and S1404, a notification about whether the inspection image input in step S1402is registered in the inspection system is awaited. Specifically, the processing proceeds to step S1405in a case where the inspection image registration completion notification in step S1603inFIG.16is received.

In step S1405, an inspection job corresponding to the registered inspection image is input.

In inputting of an inspection image registration job in step S1402and inputting of an inspection job in step S1405, the same content of the settings is configured on the print setting screen501inFIG.5.

According to the first and second exemplary embodiments described above, information indicating whether the inspection image registration is necessary is added when an inspection job is input. This enables efficient performance of the inspection operation by the printing apparatus107and the inspection apparatus109.

It is, however, not possible to issue an instruction to perform the inspection from an image stored in a storage unit, such as the HDD221of the printing apparatus107, at a timing of when an inspection image is registered. Specifically, even in a case where a previously-inspected document is to be inspected again, reissuance of a print instruction is performed from the external controller102, and it is not possible to reissue a print instruction from the printing apparatus107.

This is because RIP for converting a document into an inspection image and RIP for converting a document into a print image for printing are different processing methods. Specifically, printing cannot be performed with a RIP image having undergone the processing of conversion into an inspection image.

A method for performing the inspection by directly designating a document stored in the printing apparatus107after the inspection image registration is performed according to a third exemplary embodiment will be described below.

Different points of the present exemplary embodiment from the first exemplary embodiment described above will be described below. Those that are not described in detail are similar to those according to the first exemplary embodiment, and the redundant descriptions are omitted.

FIG.10illustrates an example of a print setting screen1001for the job that is displayed on the display212of the external controller102when the inspection and the inspection image registration are performed. The screen is similar to the print setting screen501illustrated inFIG.5except for a store-in-box item1012illustrated as a difference. Screen items1002to1011,1013, and1014of the print setting screen1001respectively correspond to the items502to513of the print setting screen501inFIG.5.

The screen items1002to1011, the OK button1013, and the cancel button1014are similar to those inFIG.5, and the redundant descriptions are omitted.

The store-in-box item1012is an item for specifying whether to store an inspection document in a storage area of the HDD221of the printing apparatus107when the inspection processing is performed. In a case where the inspection document is stored in the HDD221, the re-inspection can be performed by selecting the stored document from an application of the printing apparatus107, so that an inspection job can be performed.

FIG.11is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the inspection processing and the inspection image registration by the printing apparatus107after a job set on the print setting screen1001inFIG.10is received. The process inFIG.11is performed by the CPU208of the printing apparatus107.

In step S1101, the job control unit401analyzes job information transmitted from the external controller102. For example, the structured information illustrated inFIG.6is analyzed.

In step S1102, the job control unit401determines whether the inspection target document is to be stored in the printing apparatus107, based on a result of the analysis in step S1101. In a case where the job control unit401determines that the inspection document is not to be stored (NO in step S1102), the processing proceeds to step S1112. In step S1112, the job control unit401determines whether to perform an inspection job.

On the other hand, in a case where the job control unit401determines that the inspection document is to be stored (YES in step S1102), the processing proceeds to step S1103.

In step S1103, the job control unit401determines whether an inspection image has been registered, based on a result of the analysis in step S1101. In a case where the job control unit401determines that an inspection image has been registered (YES in step S1103), the processing proceeds to step S1104. In step S1104, the job control unit401performs processing for printing the inspection document and processing for storing the inspection document.

On the other hand, in a case where the job control unit401determines that an inspection image has not registered (NO in step S1103), the processing proceeds to step S1107. In step S1107, the inspection image registration processing is started.

In steps S1104, S1105, and S1106, an image is generated with inspection information added to the inspection target document, and the generated image is stored in the HDD221. The stored image with the inspection information is stored together with an identifier for association with the inspection image to be transmitted to the inspection apparatus109in subsequent step S1110. The identifier can be a file name of the inspection image or an ID that is issued at the time of receiving an inspection image data registration completion notification, or an ID of the job. The image generated in step S1106is an image that undergoes processing different from the processing performed on the inspection images for inspection and can be designated from an application of the printing apparatus107and printed.

Specifically, in RIP for an inspection image, an image is generated by converting a resolution of the image from 600 dpi to a resolution of 300 dpi. However, in the processing in steps S1105and S1106, because the resolution is the same as the original, i.e., 600 dpi, RIP is performed.

In step S1108, the image generation unit402generates an inspection image based on data transmitted from the external controller102. Generation of an inspection image is different from generation of an image of a normal print job and generation of an image of a storing job that is generated in step S1105in that the processing for inspection images for inspection includes converting colors and is performed at a decreased resolution and an increased compression rate, for example. This is to reduce the time of transmission to the inspection apparatus109.

In step S1109, the inspection image generated by the image storage unit403is stored in a specific area of the HDD221.

In step S1110, the inspection apparatus communication unit404detects the storing of the inspection image in the HDD221and transmits the inspection image to the inspection apparatus109. In a case where the processing is on the last image, a notification notifying that the image is the last image is simultaneously transmitted.

In step S1111, the inspection apparatus communication unit404receives a registration completion notification from the inspection apparatus109, and the processing is repeated until the last image. In a case where a notification notifying that the last inspection image is registered is received, similarly, as described above, the inspection image registration processing is ended, and the processing returns to step S1103. Then, after the inspection image registration is set to “registered” in step S1103, document storage processing in step S1104and subsequent steps is performed.

Because steps S1112to S1123are similar to steps S702to S713inFIG.7, the redundant descriptions are omitted. While the procedure illustrated inFIG.11includes the branch point in step S1103to determine whether an inspection image is registered, the branch point in step S1103and steps S1107to S1111can be omitted.

FIGS.12A and12Billustrate an example of a screen on which a document stored in the HDD221of the printing apparatus107is selected to print the selected document.

A document list screen1201inFIG.12Ais a screen that displays a list of documents stored in the HDD221. The document list includes the documents with the inspection information stored in steps S1105and S1106inFIG.11, normal documents stored in steps S703and S1113, and documents scanned and stored in the printing apparatus107.

A document1202indicates that a document with inspection information stored in steps S1105and S1106is selected, and in a case where an OK button1203is pressed, the screen changes to a print settings screen1205. In a case where a cancel button1204is pressed, the application for using a stored file is ended.

The print settings screen1205inFIG.12Bis a screen on which the print settings for the document selected on the document list screen1201is set to print the selected document. An inspection item1206indicates the inspection information registered in steps S1105and S1106inFIG.11. InFIG.12B, the inspection item1206is set to “OK”, and in a case where a start-printing button1208is pressed, the printing and the inspection processing is performed. A change-print-setting button1207cannot be pressed in a case where the inspection item1206is set to “ON”. In a case where the inspection item1206is set to “OFF”, the change-print-setting button1207is enabled, and the print settings can be changed to perform normal printing. A process of performing the inspection processing from the print settings screen1205is similar to the flowchart inFIG.7, and the redundant descriptions are omitted.

As described above, in addition to the configuration in which the printing and the inspection can be performed directly, a document that can be inspected can be stored in the printing apparatus107, so that the inspection processing can be performed not only from the external controller102but also from the printing apparatus107, whereby user convenience further improves.

While various examples and exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described above, the intent and scope of the present invention are not limited to any specific descriptions in the present specification.

Other Embodiments

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-009848, filed Jan. 26, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.