Image forming apparatus, information processing method, printing system, and storage medium for performing reprinting

A printing system includes a product inspection unit configured to perform product inspection on a print product based on a scanned image generated by reading the print product with an image printed thereon and correct answer images stored in advance, a post-processing unit configured to perform post-processing on the print product, and a control unit configured to, upon occurrence of a jam in the print product, control the printing unit to perform reprinting, wherein, upon occurrence of a jam while the post-processing is performed, the product inspection unit is notified of identification information regarding the print product on which printing is started by the reprinting, and wherein, based on the identification information, the product inspection unit references any of the correct answer images corresponding to a scanned image generated by the reprinting and performs the product inspection on the print product.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus, an information processing method, a printing system, and a storage medium.

Description of the Related Art

In recent years, there has been known a printing system in which while a print product subjected to printing by an image forming apparatus is conveyed to a sheet discharge tray, a product inspection apparatus performs product inspection on the print product. In the product inspection on the print product, an image is read by scanning the print product that is being conveyed, and the product inspection apparatus compares the read image and a correct answer image registered in advance, thereby determining whether the print product is normal.

In a printing system including a product inspection apparatus, while a print product is conveyed from the product inspection apparatus to a sheet discharge tray, the print product may cause a paper jam (a jam). In this case, a sheet having passed through the product inspection apparatus is a jam sheet. In printing for recovery from the jam, the printing is performed again from the sheet that has caused the jam, and thus the product inspection apparatus also performs product inspection on the sheet again. The product inspection apparatus, however, cannot recognize that the printing for recovery from the jam is being performed. Thus, if the printing for recovery from the jam is performed after the jam has occurred, then depending on the position of the jam, a sheet having the same print content may be subjected to the product inspection twice and determined as a defective sheet in sheet redundancy product inspection. Specifically, for example, if a jam occurs in the third page and the product inspection is completed up to the fourth page, the product inspection apparatus references the fifth page even though a correct answer image that is to be referenced by the product inspection apparatus is the third page. Thus, this print product is determined as a defective sheet. The publication of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-31963 discusses a technique in which, if a jam occurs while a print product is conveyed from a product inspection apparatus to a sheet discharge tray, an operator identifies a jam sheet, which is the sheet that has caused the jam, and the operator sets the product inspection apparatus to perform product inspection from the jam sheet again.

SUMMARY

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a printing system includes a controller having one or more processors and one or more memories, the controller configured to function as a printing unit configured to print an image on a recording sheet, a storage unit configured to store a plurality of correct answer images, a generation unit configured to read a print product obtained by the printing unit printing the image on the recording sheet and generate a scanned image, a product inspection unit configured to perform product inspection on the print product based on the scanned image generated by the generation unit and the correct answer images stored in the storage unit, a post-processing unit configured to perform post-processing on the print product, a control unit configured to, upon occurrence of a jam in the print product, control the printing unit to perform reprinting, and a notification unit configured to, upon the occurrence of the jam while the post-processing unit performs the post-processing on the print product, notify the product inspection unit of identification information regarding the print product on which printing is started by the reprinting, wherein based on the identification information, the product inspection unit references any of the correct answer images corresponding to the scanned image generated by the reprinting based on the control of the control unit and performs the product inspection on the print product.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the attached drawings, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail. The following exemplary embodiments do not limit the disclosure, and not all the combinations of the features described in the exemplary embodiments are deemed to be essential. The present exemplary embodiments are described using an image processing apparatus as an example of an information processing apparatus, but are not limited to this.

With reference to the drawings, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a printing system that, in a case where a jam of a sheet occurs on a sheet conveying path from a product inspection apparatus to a sheet discharge tray, can accurately determine a correct answer image that is to be referenced by the product inspection apparatus when printing for recovery from the jam is performed.

A first exemplary embodiment is described. An external controller according to the present exemplary embodiments is also termed an image processing controller, a digital front end (DFE), or a print server. An image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment is also termed a multifunction peripheral (MFP).

FIG.1is a diagram illustrating the entirety of the hardware configuration of an image processing system according to the present exemplary embodiment. The image processing system includes an image forming apparatus101and an external controller102. The image forming apparatus101and the external controller102are connected together via an internal local area network (LAN)105and a video cable106so that the image forming apparatus101and the external controller102can communicate with each other. The external controller102is connected to a client personal computer (PC)103via an external LAN104so that the external controller102can communicate with the client PC103. The PC103issues a print instruction to the external controller102.

On the client PC103, a printer driver having the function of converting print data into a print description language that can be processed by the external controller102is installed. An operator who performs printing can issue a print instruction via the printer driver from various applications. Based on a print instruction from the operator, the printer driver transmits print data to the external controller102. If the external controller102receives a print instruction from the PC103, the external controller102performs data analysis and a rasterization process on the print data, inputs the resulting print data to the image forming apparatus101, and issues a print instruction to the image forming apparatus101.

Next, the image forming apparatus101is described. Various apparatuses having a plurality of different functions are connected to the image forming apparatus101, and the image forming apparatus101is configured to perform a complex printing process such as bookbinding.

A printing apparatus107forms an image using toner on a sheet conveyed from a sheet feeding unit in a lower portion of the printing apparatus107. The sheet may be paper or film, and refers to a recording sheet on which an image is to be formed using toner. The configuration and the operating principle of the printing apparatus107are as follows. The printing apparatus107emits a light beam such as laser light modulated according to image data, which is reflected by a rotary polygon mirror such as a polygon mirror, and irradiates a photosensitive drum with the reflected laser light as scanning light. An electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum by the laser light is developed using toner, and the developed toner image is transferred to a sheet attached to a transfer drum. The printing apparatus107sequentially executes a series of operations of this image formation process using toner of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), thereby forming a full-color image on the sheet. The sheet on the transfer drum on which the full-color image is formed is conveyed to a fixing device. The fixing device includes a roller, a belt and a heat source such as a halogen heater built into the roller. The fixing device melts by heat and pressure the toner on the sheet to which the toner image is transferred, thereby fixing the toner image to the sheet.

An inserter108inserts an insertion sheet. The inserter108can insert a sheet at any position in a group of sheets that is subjected to printing by the printing apparatus107and conveyed.

A product inspection apparatus109is an apparatus that reads an image on a conveyed sheet and compares the image and a correct answer image registered in advance, thereby determining whether the printed image is normal.

A large-capacity stacker110can store a large number of sheets therein.

A finisher111performs a finishing process on a conveyed sheet. The finishing process is a process of stapling, punching, or saddle stitch binding on a sheet on which an image is printed. The sheet subjected to the finishing process is discharged to a sheet discharge tray.

The printing system described with reference toFIG.1has a configuration in which the external controller102is connected to the image forming apparatus101. The present exemplary embodiment, however, is not limited to a configuration in which the external controller102is connected.

That is, a configuration may be employed in which the image forming apparatus101is connected to the external LAN104, and the client PC103transmits print data that can be processed by the image forming apparatus101to the image forming apparatus101. In this case, the image forming apparatus101performs data analysis and a rasterization process on the print data and executes a printing process on the resulting print data.

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

First, the configuration of the printing apparatus107of the image forming apparatus101is described. 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 image forming unit228, a fixing unit229, and a sheet feeding unit230. These components are connected together via a system bus231.

The communication I/F217is connected to the inserter108, the product inspection apparatus109, the large-capacity stacker110, and the finisher111via a communication cable254, and communication for control of each apparatus is performed via the communication I/F217.

The LAN I/F218is connected to the external controller102via the internal LAN105, and print data is communicated via the LAN I/F218.

The video I/F220is connected to the external controller102via the video cable106, and image data is communicated via the video I/F220.

The HDD221is a storage device that stores programs and data. Based on the programs stored in the HDD221, the CPU222controls image processing and comprehensively controls printing.

The memory223stores programs necessary for the CPU222to perform various processes and image data and operates as a work area.

The operation unit224receives inputs of various settings and an instruction to perform an operation from the operator.

The display225displays setting information regarding the image processing apparatus and the processing status of a print job.

The document exposure unit226performs the process of reading a document when a copy function or a scan function is used. The document exposure unit226captures an image using a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera while illuminating a sheet placed by the operator with an exposure lamp, thereby reading document data.

The laser exposure unit227is a device that performs primary charging for irradiating the photosensitive drum with laser light to transfer a toner image and also performs laser exposure. First, the laser exposure unit227performs primary charging for charging the surface of the photosensitive drum to a uniform negative potential. Next, a laser driver irradiates the photosensitive drum with laser light while adjusting the angle of reflection using a polygon mirror. This neutralizes the negative charge of the irradiated portion, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image.

The image forming unit228is a device that transfers toner to a sheet. The image forming unit228includes a developing unit, a transfer unit, and a toner supply unit. The image forming unit228transfers toner on the photosensitive drum to a sheet.

The developing unit applies negatively charged toner to an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum from a developing cylinder, thereby visualizing the image. The transfer unit performs a primary transfer for applying a positive potential to a primary transfer roller and transferring toner on the surface of the photosensitive drum to a transfer belt, and a secondary transfer for applying a positive potential to a secondary transfer outer roller and transferring the toner on the transfer belt to a sheet.

The fixing unit229is a device that melts toner on a sheet and firmly fixes the toner to the sheet by heat and pressure. The fixing unit229includes a heating heater, a fixing belt, and a pressure belt. The sheet feeding unit230is a device that feeds a sheet. Rollers and various sensors control a sheet feeding operation and a sheet conveying operation.

Next, the configuration of the inserter108of the image forming apparatus101is described.

The inserter108of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication OF232, a CPU233, a memory234, and a sheet feeding control unit235. These components are connected together via a system bus236. The communication I/F232is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254, and communication necessary for control is performed via the communication I/F232.

According to control programs stored in the memory234, the CPU233performs various types of control necessary for the feeding of a sheet.

The memory234is a storage device that stores the control programs. Based on an instruction from the CPU233, the sheet feeding control unit235controls the feeding and the conveyance of a sheet conveyed from a sheet feeding unit of the inserter108or the printing apparatus107while controlling a roller and a sensor.

Next, the configuration of the product inspection apparatus109of the image forming apparatus101is described. The product 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 an HDD272. These components are connected together via a system bus243.

The communication I/F237is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254, and communication necessary for control is performed via the communication I/F237. A correct answer image for use in inspection is also received from the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254and the communication I/F237and stored in the HDD272.

According to control programs stored in the memory239, the CPU238performs various types of control necessary for product inspection.

The memory239is a storage device that stores the control programs.

Based on an instruction from the CPU238, the image capturing unit240captures an image on a conveyed sheet, thereby generating a scanned image.

The CPU238compares the scanned image generated by the image capturing unit240and the correct answer image stored in the HDD272, thereby determining whether the printed image is normal.

The display unit241displays the result of the product inspection and a setting screen.

The operation unit242is operated by the operator and receives a change in the setting of the product inspection apparatus109or an instruction to register the correct answer image.

The HDD272stores the correct answer image. In a case where the HDD272is not disposed, a configuration may be employed in which the correct answer image is stored in the HDD221, and when the process of determining whether the printed image is normal is performed, the correct answer image is read from the HDD221to the memory239and used.

Next, the configuration of the large-capacity stacker110of the image forming apparatus101is described. The large-capacity stacker110of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication I/F244, a CPU245, a memory246, and a sheet discharge control unit247. These components are connected together via a system bus248. The communication I/F244is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254, and communication necessary for control is performed via the communication I/F244.

According to control programs stored in the memory246, the CPU245performs various types of control necessary for the discharge of a sheet. The memory246is a storage device that stores the control programs. Based on an instruction from the CPU245, the sheet discharge control unit247performs control to convey a conveyed sheet to a stack tray, an escape tray, or the finisher111at the subsequent stage.

Next, the configuration of the finisher111of the image forming apparatus101is described. The finisher111of the image forming apparatus101includes a communication I/F249, a CPU250, a memory251, a sheet discharge control unit252, and a finishing processing unit253. These components are connected together via a system bus255. The communication I/F249is connected to the printing apparatus107via the communication cable254, and communication necessary for control is performed via the communication I/F249.

According to control programs stored in the memory251, the CPU250performs various types of control necessary for finishing and the discharge of a sheet.

The memory251is a storage device that stores the control programs.

Based on an instruction from the CPU250, the sheet discharge control unit252controls the conveyance and the discharge of a sheet.

Based on an instruction from the CPU250, the finishing processing unit253controls a finishing process such as stapling, punching, or saddle stitch binding. The finishing process does not need to include all these finishing processes such as the stapling, the punching, and the saddle stitch binding.

Next, the configuration of the external controller102is described.

The external controller102includes a CPU208, a memory209, an HDD210, a keyboard211, a display212, a LAN I/F213, a LAN I/F214, and a video I/F215. These components are connected together via a system bus216.

Based on programs and data stored in the HDD210, the CPU208comprehensively executes the process of receiving print data from the client PC103, a raster image processor (RIP) process, and the process of transmitting print data to the image forming apparatus101.

The memory209stores programs necessary for the CPU208to perform various processes and data and operates as a work area.

The HDD210stores programs necessary for the operation of a printing process and data.

The keyboard211is a device for inputting an instruction to perform an operation to the external controller102.

The display212displays information regarding an execution application for the external controller102using a video signal of a still image or a moving image.

The LAN I/F213is connected to the client PC103via the external LAN104, and a print instruction is communicated via the LAN I/F213. The LAN I/F214is connected to the image forming apparatus101via the internal LAN105, and a print instruction is communicated via the LAN I/F214. The video I/F215is connected to the image forming apparatus101via the video cable106, and print data is communicated via the video I/F215.

Next, the configuration of the client PC103is described. The client PC103includes a CPU201, a memory202, an HDD203, a keyboard204, a display205, and a LAN I/F206. These components are connected together via a system bus207.

Based on a document processing program stored in the HDD203, the CPU201creates print data or issues a print instruction. The CPU201also comprehensively controls the devices connected to the system bus207.

The memory202stores programs necessary for the CPU201to perform various processes and data and operates as a work area.

The HDD203stores programs necessary for the operation of a printing process and data.

The keyboard204is a device for inputting an instruction to perform an operation to the PC103.

The display205displays information regarding an execution application for the client PC103using a video signal of a still image or a moving image.

The LAN I/F206is connected to the external LAN104, and a print instruction is communicated via the LAN I/F206.

In the above description, the external controller102and the image forming apparatus101are connected to each other via the internal LAN105and the video cable106, but any other configurations may be employed as long as data necessary for printing can be transmitted and received therebetween. For example, a configuration may be employed in which the external controller102and the image forming apparatus101are connected to each other via only the video cable106. Each of the memories202,209,223,234,239,246, and251only needs to be a storage device for holding data and programs. For example, a configuration may be employed in which 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 is substituted for each of the memories202,209,223,234,239,246, and251.

FIG.3is a mechanical cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus101.

Sheet feeding decks301and302can store various sheets. For each of the sheet feeding decks301and302, information regarding the sheets (the sheet size and the sheet type) stored in the sheet feeding deck can be set by using the operation unit224of the printing apparatus107. Each of the sheet feeding decks301and302can separate only the top sheet among the stored sheets and convey the separated sheet to a sheet conveying path303.

Development stations304to307form toner images using colored toner of Y, M, C, and K, respectively, to form a color image. The toner images formed at this time are primarily transferred to an intermediate transfer belt308. The intermediate transfer belt308rotates clockwise inFIG.3and transfers the toner images to the sheet conveyed from the sheet conveying path303at a secondary transfer position309.

The display225displays the print status of the image forming apparatus101or information for the settings of the image forming apparatus101.

A fixing unit311fixes the toner images to the sheet. The fixing unit311includes a pressure roller and a heating roller. As the sheet passes between the rollers, the fixing unit311melts and pressurizes the toner and fixes the toner images to the sheet. The sheet having come out of the fixing unit311passes through a sheet conveying path312and is conveyed to a sheet conveying path315. If the toner needs to be further melted and pressurized to fix the toner depending on the type of the sheet, after the sheet passes through the fixing unit311, the sheet is conveyed to a second fixing unit313using an upper sheet conveying path. After the toner is additionally melted and pressurized, the sheet passes through a sheet conveying path314and is conveyed to the sheet conveying path315. If the image formation mode is set to two-sided printing, the sheet is conveyed to a sheet reverse path316, reversed in the sheet reverse path316, and then conveyed to a two-sided conveying path317. Then, an image is transferred to the second surface of the sheet at the secondary transfer position309.

The inserter108inserts an insertion sheet. The inserter108includes an inserter tray321and causes a sheet fed via a sheet conveying path322to join the conveying path. Consequently, it is possible to insert a sheet at any position in a series of sheets conveyed from the printing apparatus107and convey these sheets to the subsequent apparatus.

The sheet having passed through the inserter108is conveyed to the product inspection apparatus109. In the product inspection apparatus109, cameras331and332are placed opposed to each other. The camera331is a camera that reads the upper surface of the sheet, and the camera332is a camera that reads the lower surface of the sheet. At the timing when the sheet conveyed to a sheet conveying path333reaches a predetermined position, the product inspection apparatus109can read an image on the sheet using the camera331or332and determine whether the image on the sheet is normal. The display unit241displays the result of product inspection performed by the product inspection apparatus109.

The large-capacity stacker110can store a large number of sheets. The large-capacity stacker110includes a stack tray341as a tray for stacking a sheet. The sheet having passed through the product inspection apparatus109is input to the large-capacity stacker110through a sheet conveying path344. The sheet is conveyed from the sheet conveying path344, passes through a sheet conveying path345, and is stacked in the stack tray341. Further, the large-capacity stacker110includes an escape tray346as a sheet discharge tray. The escape tray346is a sheet discharge tray used to discharge a sheet determined as a defective sheet by the product inspection apparatus109. To output the sheet to the escape tray346, the sheet is conveyed from the sheet conveying path344, passes through a sheet conveying path347, and is conveyed to the escape tray346. To convey the sheet to a post-processing apparatus at the subsequent stage of the large-capacity stacker110, the sheet is conveyed via a sheet conveying path348.

In this manner, if the product inspection apparatus109determines a sheet as a defective sheet, printing is suspended, and the defective sheet and subsequent sheets that are already fed are discharged to a sheet discharge destination different from that of a normal sheet. This can prevent the defective sheet from being mixed in with the normal sheet. After the defective sheet and the subsequent sheets that are already fed are all discharged, the printing is resumed from the sheet in which the defect occurs, thereby continuing the printing from the defective sheet. An operation in a case where a sheet is determined as a defective sheet is not limited to this.

A reverse unit349reverses the sheet. The reverse unit349is used to stack the sheet in the stack tray341. To stack the sheet in the stack tray341so that the direction of the sheet when the sheet is input to the large-capacity stacker110and the direction of the sheet when the sheet is output are the same as each other, the sheet is reversed once by the reverse unit349. To convey the sheet to the escape tray346or the post-processing apparatus at the subsequent stage, the sheet is discharged as it is without flipping the sheet when the sheet is stacked. Thus, the operation of reversing the sheet in the reverse unit349is not performed.

The finisher111is an apparatus that performs a finishing process on the conveyed sheet according to a function specified by the operator. Specifically, the finisher111has a finishing function such as stapling, e.g., one-point or two-point binding, punching, e.g., two-hole or three-hole punching, or saddle stitch binding. The finishing function does not need to include all these finishing functions such as the stapling, the punching, and the saddle stitch binding. The finisher111includes two sheet discharge trays351and352. If the finishing process such as the stapling is not to be performed, the sheet is output to the sheet discharge tray351via a sheet conveying path353. If, on the other hand, the finishing process such as the stapling is to be performed, the sheet is conveyed via a sheet conveying path354, and a finishing function specified by the user is executed on the sheet by a processing unit355. Then, the sheet is output to the sheet discharge tray352. Each of the sheet discharge trays351and352can rise and fall. With the sheet discharge tray351moved down, the sheet subjected to the finishing process by the processing unit355can be discharged to and stacked in the sheet discharge tray351. If the saddle stitch binding is specified, after a saddle stitch processing unit356performs the stapling process on the center of the sheet, the sheet is folded in two and output to a saddle stitch binding tray358via a sheet conveying path357. The saddle stitch binding tray358is composed of a conveyor belt and configured to convey a saddle-stitched bundle of sheets stacked on the saddle stitch binding tray358to the left.

FIGS.4to6are examples of display screens of the product inspection apparatus109, and each display screen is displayed based on an instruction from the CPU238of the product inspection apparatus109. According to product inspection items set in advance, the product inspection apparatus109performs product inspection on a sent sheet image. The product inspection on the sheet image is performed by comparing a correct answer image set in advance and the sent sheet image. Examples of the method for comparing the images include a method for comparing pixel values with respect to each image position, a method for comparing the positions of objects by edge detection, and a method for extracting text data by optical character recognition (OCR). The product inspection items include a shift in the print position, the tint of the image, the density of the image, a streak, fading, and missing print. The inspection does not need to be performed regarding all the inspection items, and one or more items can be selected.

FIG.4is an example of a screen400displayed on the display unit241of the product inspection apparatus109when the product inspection apparatus109is activated.

An item401displays a message indicating that the correct answer image is not registered, and thus it is necessary to register the correct answer image to start the product inspection.

An item402displays the correct answer image that is already registered. As an example, the correct answer image is unregistered, so that the screen400displays a message indicating that the correct answer image is unregistered. Display in a case where the correct answer image is registered will be described below.

A button403is used to call a registration screen for registering the correct answer image. The correct answer image is an image as a comparison target to be compared with an image read by the product inspection apparatus109. As the correct answer image, an image obtained by reading a print sheet which is visually confirmed to be normal is used.

A button404is used to call a setting screen for setting the product inspection. According to the operator's purpose of the product inspection, items for the product inspection and the accuracy of the product inspection (the degree of difference from the correct answer image to which an image is determined as a defective image) are set.

A button405is used to call a confirmation screen for confirming the result of the product inspection. The operator can confirm the content of the product inspection and the result of the product inspection in the past.

A button406is used to issue an instruction to start the product inspection. If the button406is pressed, the product inspection apparatus109shifts to a product inspection mode and notifies the printing apparatus107that the product inspection apparatus109is in the product inspection mode. If the product inspection is started, the product inspection apparatus109starts the product inspection on a sent sheet image.

The screens to be displayed in a case where the buttons404and405are pressed are not directly related to embodiments of the present disclosure, and therefore are not described here. The screens to be displayed in a case where the buttons403and406are pressed are described with reference toFIGS.5and6.

FIG.5is an example of a screen500displayed on the display unit241of the product inspection apparatus109after the reading of the correct answer image is completed.

A display portion501displays an image of a print sheet read by the product inspection apparatus109. If there is a plurality of print sheets, the displayed image can be switched using a switching button502. If the product inspection is performed on both front and back sides of the image, the front and back sides can be switched using a switching button503. A button504is used to issue an instruction to set a product inspection skip area. In this setting, an area where the product inspection is not performed can be set for printing in which the print content of a particular area is changed for each copy, such as variable printing (variable data printing (VDP)).

In the variable printing, there are a case where a different identifier (ID) is printed for each copy, and a case where only an address or a name is changed for each copy.

A button505is used to issue an instruction to register the correct answer image after confirming the read image in the display portion501. If the button505is pressed, the product inspection apparatus109registers the correct answer image and returns to the display screen inFIG.4.

A button506is used to cancel the reading. If the button506is pressed, the product inspection apparatus109does not register the correct answer image and returns to the display screen inFIG.4. If the button505or506is pressed and the screen500returns to the display screen inFIG.4, the product inspection apparatus109shifts to a normal mode where the product inspection apparatus109does not perform the product inspection. Then, the product inspection apparatus109notifies the printing apparatus107that the product inspection apparatus109is in the normal mode.

FIG.6illustrates an example of a home screen600displayed on the display unit241of the product inspection apparatus109when a plurality of correct answer images is registered.

A message601urges the operator to select an image for use in the product inspection from the plurality of registered correct answer images.

An item602displays the plurality of registered correct answer images.FIG.6illustrates examples of the registered correct answer images. Images of documents may be displayed as in the item602, or only registration names may be displayed.

Scroll buttons603and604are buttons used to scroll the viewing area of the item602to the left and right to select correct answer images outside the viewing area.

Check boxes605to607correspond to the respective correct answer images. If an image for use in the product inspection is selected, a check mark is displayed in a corresponding one of the check boxes605to607. If the “start product inspection” button406is pressed after the correct answer image is selected, the product inspection using the selected correct answer image is started.

To set the product inspection for the product inspection apparatus109, the product inspection is set on the examples of the screens illustrated inFIGS.4to6displayed on the display unit241of the product inspection apparatus109. On the other hand, to instruct the product inspection apparatus109to convey a print sheet to be registered as the correct answer image, a sheet on which a barcode is printed, or a print sheet as a product inspection target, the instruction is issued through the external controller102.

FIG.7is a selection screen700displayed on the display212of the external controller102for selecting product inspection jobs to be executed. An item701indicates a list of product inspection jobs received from the client PC103. The item701indicates the state where four jobs are received from the client PC103, and indicates the state where three jobs, i.e., “bill”, “estimate”, and “pamphlet”, are selected as examples of the jobs to be executed. If a button702is pressed after the jobs to be executed are selected, the selection screen700transitions to a setting screen for setting the product inspection jobs inFIG.8.

FIG.8is an example of a setting screen800displayed on the display212of the external controller102for setting the product inspection jobs.

In an item801, each job selected on the screen700is set.

In an item802, the number of copies of the job is set. InFIG.8, as an example, print settings are made so that 300 copies of the bill and 100 copies of the estimate are printed. A button803is used to issue an instruction to, as an example, print only a single copy of the product inspection job corresponding to “bill”.

For example, the button803is used to register the correct answer image in the product inspection apparatus109. The procedure for registering the correct answer image using the button803is as follows.

The button403inFIG.4displayed on the display unit241of the product inspection apparatus109is pressed, thereby instructing the product inspection apparatus109to start registering the correct answer image. Then, the button803is pressed to instruct the external controller102to print a single copy of the corresponding product inspection job. If the instruction to print a single copy is issued, the printing apparatus107performs printing, and the product inspection apparatus109switches the correct answer image and reads a sheet and the correct answer image.

In an item804, the sheet discharge destinations of the product inspection jobs are set. In this case, the large-capacity stacker110is set as a sheet discharge destination, and the escape tray346is set as a sheet discharge destination to which a sheet is to be discharged if it is determined by the product inspection that an image is a defective image.

A button805is used to instruct the inserter108to feed the correct answer image. The button805is used to cause the inserter108to read a print sheet already subjected to printing as the correct answer image. For example, the button805is used to read the correct answer image after the operator determines that the print sheet corresponds to a normal image when printing and the registration of the correct answer image are not simultaneously performed. When the button805is used, the operator places a print sheet to be registered as the correct answer image in advance and a sheet on which a barcode is printed on the tray321of the inserter108, and then the print sheet and the sheet are conveyed to the product inspection apparatus109. In this case, the sheet feeding unit230of the printing apparatus107may feed the sheets. However, if the sheet feeding unit230feeds the sheets, the sheets are pressurized and heated through the fixing unit311and the second fixing unit313, and therefore, an image on the print sheet may deform. Thus, in a case where a print sheet already subjected to printing is registered as the correct answer image, it is desirable that the inserter108feeds the sheet so that the sheet does not pass through a fixing device.

A button806is used to issue an instruction to start printing the product inspection jobs. If an instruction to start printing is issued by pressing the button806, the external controller102inputs the product inspection jobs to the printing apparatus107based on the settings inFIG.8. For example, after the product inspection apparatus109is instructed to start the product inspection by pressing the button406inFIG.4, the external controller102is instructed to start printing the product inspection jobs by pressing the button806. If the instruction to start printing the product inspection jobs is issued, the external controller102inputs print data to the printing apparatus107and instructs the product inspection apparatus109to convey a print sheet subjected to printing. If the print sheet is conveyed, the product inspection apparatus109reads an image of the print sheet and performs the product inspection process.

If a “cancel” button807is pressed, the screen800transitions to the screen700, for example.

With reference toFIG.12, a description is given of a sequence for registering the correct answer image in the product inspection apparatus109.

The detailed operation of each apparatus is as described with reference toFIG.2, and processing specialized in the registration of the correct answer image according to the present exemplary embodiment is described here.

First, in step S1201, the operator presses the “register correct answer image” button403illustrated inFIG.4by using the operation unit242of the product inspection apparatus109.

Next, in step S1202, the operator presses the button803illustrated inFIG.8on the external controller102. As a result, the PC103inputs a correct answer image registration job to the external controller102via the external LAN104. At this time, the PC103adds information indicating a job for registering the correct answer image to print data.

In step S1203, the external controller102inputs a print job to the printing apparatus107via the internal LAN105and the video cable106. Also at this time, the external controller102adds information indicating a job for registering the correct answer image to the print data.

If the print job from the external controller102is input to the printing apparatus107, then in step S1204, the printing apparatus107interprets the print data and prints image data based on various settings.

In step S1205, when a sheet output from the printing apparatus107passes through the product inspection apparatus109, the image capturing unit240of the product inspection apparatus109scans an image on the sheet and stores the image in the memory239. The processes in steps S1204and S1205are repeated on all the sheets of the input print data. If all the sheets are obtained, the product inspection apparatus109displays the screen500on the operation unit242. If the operator presses the “register” button505, then in step S1206, all the scanned images are stored as a group of correct answer images in the HDD272. At this time, the product inspection apparatus109determines a unique ID for the stored group of correct answer images (hereinafter, this ID will be referred to as a “correct answer image group ID”). Thus, the correct answer image group ID is an ID unique to the correct answer images composed of a plurality of sheets. Then, in step S1207, the product inspection apparatus109notifies the printing apparatus107that the registration of the correct answer images is completed. At this time, the product inspection apparatus109also notifies the printing apparatus107of the correct answer image group ID determined in step S1206together with the completion of the registration. In step S1208, the printing apparatus107notifies the external controller102that the registration of the correct answer images is completed, and also notifies the external controller102of the correct answer image group ID of which the printing apparatus107is notified by the product inspection apparatus109. The external controller102stores the correct answer image group ID of which the external controller102is notified by the printing apparatus107in association with the print data input in step S1202and the image data in the HDD210.

In the above description, the product inspection apparatus109determines the correct answer image group ID. Alternatively, a configuration may be employed in which the external controller102or the printing apparatus107determines the correct answer image group ID. In the above description, the image obtained by scanning the sheet output from the printing apparatus107is the correct answer image. Alternatively, an RIP image may be used as the correct answer image. Specifically, RIP data obtained by the printing apparatus107performing an RIP process for the correct answer image on the image data to be output to the sheet may be used as the correct answer image.

FIGS.9A and9Bare diagrams illustrating the positional relationship between a jam sheet in the printing apparatus107and a product inspection completion boundary901.FIGS.9A and9Billustrate the mechanical cross-sectional view inFIG.3in a simplified manner.FIGS.9A and9Billustrate the flow of print products (902,903, and912to921) obtained by printing images on recording sheets and recording sheets (904,905,922, and923) on a sheet conveying path in the image forming apparatus101.

The product inspection completion boundary901is a boundary for separating a print product on which the product inspection is completed by the product inspection apparatus109, and a print product on which the product inspection is not completed. The product inspection completion boundary901is merely a conceptional boundary used as a criterion.FIGS.9A and9Bare diagrams illustrating a jam that occurs during the product inspection process in the product inspection apparatus109, and the difference in the method for recovering from the jam depending on the position where the jam occurs.

FIG.9Aillustrates an example of the state where the image forming apparatus101stops in a case where a jam occurs in a sheet upstream (on the sheet feeding device side) of the product inspection apparatus109. A sheet902causes the jam, and subsequent sheets903to904that are already fed are also treated as jam sheets. Thus, if the print job is resumed after the jam sheets are removed by jam clearance, the printing is resumed from an image printed on the sheet902. In the present exemplary embodiment, the image forming apparatus101does not immediately stop at the timing when the jam occurs in the sheet902, but performs the product inspection on a sheet (not illustrated) downstream of the sheet902as a valid sheet and discharges the sheet to a sheet discharge tray.

If the rear end of a sheet passes through a sheet detection sensor905at the position of the product inspection completion boundary901, the product inspection on the sheet is completed. If the rear end of the sheet does not pass through the sheet detection sensor905, the product inspection on the sheet is not completed. In the state ofFIG.9A, all the jam sheets902to904are upstream (on the printing apparatus107side or the inserter108side) of the product inspection completion boundary901, and a jam sheet that is not subjected to the product inspection is not present. Thus, no particular issue arises.

FIG.9Billustrates the state where the printing apparatus107stops in a case where a jam occurs in a sheet downstream (on the large-capacity stacker110side or the finisher111side) of the product inspection completion boundary901. A sheet912causes the jam, and subsequent sheets913to923that are already fed are also treated as jam sheets. Thus, if the print job is resumed after the jam sheets are removed by jam clearance, the printing is resumed from an image printed on the sheet912.

InFIG.9B, the sheets912to917have passed through the product inspection completion boundary901and thus are already subjected to the product inspection. Particularly, the sheets912to914are normal sheets, but will be subjected to the printing again when the printing is resumed after the jam clearance, and will be subjected to the product inspection again. Thus, an issue described below with reference toFIGS.10A to10Earises.

FIGS.10A to10Eare diagrams illustrating the pattern ofFIG.9Bwhere sheets are determined as defective sheets in sheet redundancy product inspection due to the occurrence of a jam.

FIG.10Aillustrates sheets of a print job, which is a one-sided print job for eight sheets. InFIGS.10A to10E, the first to eighth sheets are represented as “P1” to “P8”, respectively.FIG.10Billustrates an example of a jam state. A description is given on the assumption that the sheet P3is a sheet that causes the jam. The sheets P1to P4have passed through the product inspection completion boundary901, and thus the product inspection on the sheets P1to P4is completed. The sheets P1and P2are determined as normal sheets by the product inspection and already discharged to a sheet discharge tray. All the sheets P3to P8are jam sheets. The sheets P3and P4are determined as normal sheets by the product inspection, and the sheets P5to P8are not yet subjected to the product inspection. If jam clearance is performed in the state ofFIG.10B, then as illustrated inFIG.10C, reprinting is performed from the sheet P3. In this example, sheets to pass through the product inspection apparatus109are illustrated inFIG.10D, and the product inspection is to be performed in this order. Thus, the sheets P3and P4are to be subjected to the product inspection twice. Specifically, sheets1001and1002are the sheets P3and P4as jam sheets, and the sheets P3and P4are determined as normal sheets by the product inspection at this time. If the printing is resumed after jam clearance, the sheets P3and P4corresponding to sheets1003and1004are to be subjected to the product inspection again. On the other hand, a group of correct answer images registered in the product inspection apparatus109is illustrated inFIG.10E. As a result, the sheets P3and P4corresponding to the sheets1003and1004are to be subjected to the product inspection based on correct answer images P5and P6illustrated inFIG.10Eand therefore are to be determined as defective sheets by the product inspection apparatus109. The sheet P5and the subsequent sheets inFIG.10Dare also to be similarly subjected to the product inspection based on correct answer images on different pages and therefore are to be determined as defective sheets.

To solve this issue, the operator needs to specify the sheet P3as a product inspection resumption sheet for the product inspection apparatus109through the PC103and then resume the printing.

Although the description is given using a one-sided print job as an example, also in a case where the sheets inFIGS.10A to10Eare replaced by those of a two-sided print job and a jam occurs in the sheet P3, reprinting is performed from the sheet P3similarly to the one-sided print job. Thus, the operator needs to specify the front side of the sheet P3as a product inspection resumption sheet for the product inspection apparatus109through the PC103and then resume the print job. In the configuration illustrated inFIG.3, since images printed on both sides are scanned using the cameras331and332installed at the same conveyance position, this does not lead to a situation where only the front side is already subjected to the product inspection and the back side is not yet inspected. Even in a situation where only one side is already subjected to the product inspection due to a configuration in which the installation positions of the cameras are different from each other, both sides of a sheet in which a jam occurs are subjected to reprinting. Thus, the operator needs to specify the front side of the sheet in which the jam occurs for the product inspection apparatus109and then resume the printing.

InFIGS.9A and9BandFIGS.10A to10E, the description has been given on the premise that the process of printing for recovery from a jam is performed by performing reprinting from the sheet in which the jam occurs. The printing for recovery from a jam, however, is not limited to reprinting from the sheet in which the jam occurs. For example, the image forming apparatus101may be stopped at the timing when a jam occurs, and all the sheets present on a conveying path when the image forming apparatus101is stopped may be determined as jam sheets. Then, reprinting may be performed from the furthest downstream sheet on the conveying path. Thus, the present exemplary embodiment is not limited to the configuration described above.

FIG.11is a flowchart illustrating processing from the occurrence of a jam to the stop of the printing apparatus107. A program for the printing apparatus107related to the processing in this flowchart is stored in the HDD221, loaded into the memory223, and executed by the CPU222.

In step S1101, the printing apparatus107detects a jam. Not only the printing apparatus107but also any apparatus in the image forming apparatus101can detect a jam. If an apparatus other than the printing apparatus107detects a jam, the printing apparatus107is notified of the occurrence of the jam via the communication cable254.

In step S1102, the conveyance of sheets (903,904, and905inFIG.9A) upstream of the sheet in which the jam occurs is stopped. Consequently, all the sheets upstream of the sheet in which the jam occurs are determined as jam sheets and thus are to be manually removed by the operator.

In step S1103, the furthest downstream jam sheet (902inFIG.9A) on the sheet conveying path that causes the jam is set as a beginning jam sheet of an internal parameter.

In step S1104, it is determined whether the setting for performing the product inspection is made. If the setting for performing the product inspection is made (Yes in step S1104), the processing proceeds to step S1105. If the setting for not performing the product inspection is made (No in step S1104), the processing proceeds to step S1106. The setting for performing or not performing the product inspection may be made in the non-volatile memory223of the printing apparatus107by using the operation unit224, or may be made in a print job from the external controller102.

In step S1105, sheets downstream of the beginning jam sheet are determined as valid sheets, subjected to the product inspection, and discharged.

Since the setting for performing the product inspection is not made, in step S1106, the sheets downstream of the beginning jam sheet are determined as valid sheets and discharged.

In step S1107, it is determined whether a jam further occurs during the discharge of the sheets in step S1105or S1106. If a jam occurs (Yes in step S1107), the processing proceeds to step S1108. If a jam does not occur (No in step S1107), the processing proceeds to step S1109.

Since a jam occurs further downstream of the beginning jam sheet set in step S1103, in step S1108, the beginning jam sheet is updated.

In step S1109, although not illustrated, a jam screen that is a screen instructing the operator to remove jam sheets is displayed on the operation unit224.

Next, with reference toFIG.13, a description is given of a sequence in a case where a jam occurs in the finisher111during the execution of a product inspection job. The detailed operation of each apparatus is as described with reference toFIG.2, and processing specialized in a jam during a product inspection job according to the present exemplary embodiment is described here.

In step S1301, the operator selects correct answer images with which the operator wishes to perform the product inspection, and presses the “start product inspection” button406on the screen600illustrated inFIG.6on the PC103. Next, the operator selects the same correct answer images as those in step S1301on the screens700and800illustrated inFIGS.7and8on the external controller102and presses the “start printing” button806on the screen800. Consequently, in step S1302, the external controller102inputs a selected print job to the printing apparatus107via the internal LAN105and the video cable106.

At this time, the external controller102searches the HDD272for a correct answer image group ID corresponding to the selected correct answer images and adds information indicating a product inspection target job, the correct answer image group ID, and a sheet ID of a sheet from which the product inspection is to be started to print data. Hereinafter, the sheet ID of the sheet from which the inspection is to be started will be referred to as an “inspection start sheet ID”. The correct answer image group ID and the sheet ID are collectively referred to as “identification information”. The inspection start sheet ID is used to notify the printing apparatus107of the ordinal number of the sheet in the correct answer images from which the inspection is to be started. If the print job from the external controller102is input to the printing apparatus107, then in step S1303, the printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109of the start of a product inspection job. At this time, the printing apparatus107adds the correct answer image group ID and the product inspection start sheet ID of which the printing apparatus107is notified by the external controller102in step S1302.

In step S1304, the product inspection apparatus109confirms settings which are made through the printing apparatus107and of which the product inspection apparatus109is notified with the start of the product inspection job. If necessary, the product inspection apparatus109updates the settings of the product inspection job generated in step S1301.

Next, in step S1305, the printing apparatus107interprets the print data and prints image data based on various settings.

In step S1306, when a sheet output from the printing apparatus107passes through the product inspection apparatus109, the image capturing unit240of the product inspection apparatus109scans an image on the sheet, thereby generating a scanned image of the sheet. Then, in step S1307, the product inspection apparatus109compares the scanned image with a corresponding one of the correct answer images. The processes of steps S1305to S1307are repeatedly performed on all the sheets of the input print data. If a jam occurs in any apparatus in the image forming apparatus101during this process, the processing in step S1308and subsequent steps (described below) is performed.

As an example, a case is described where a jam occurs in the finisher111. In step S1308, the finisher111detects the occurrence of a jam.

In step S1309, the finisher111notifies the printing apparatus107of the occurrence of the jam.

The information of which the finisher111notifies the printing apparatus107at this time includes the jam occurrence position, which is required for the printing apparatus107to perform the operation of recovering from the jam, and a jam sheet ID for notifying the printing apparatus107of the ordinal number of the page of the print job in which the jam occurs. If a jam occurs in another apparatus, the apparatus that detects the jam issues a similar notification to the printing apparatus107as in the example where a jam occurs in the finisher111.

In step S1310, the printing apparatus107performs the processing described in steps S1107to S1109inFIG.11to display the jam screen on the operation unit224. In step S1311, the operator views the jam screen and removes jam sheets in the printing apparatus107.

In step S1312, based on information regarding the beginning jam sheet updated in step S1108inFIG.11, the printing apparatus107determines a beginning sheet for reprinting. Although steps S1311and S1312are described in this order, the operator performs the jam clearance at any timing chosen by the operator, and thus the order of processes can also be steps S1312and S1311.

Next, the printing apparatus107determines whether the jam occurrence position of which the printing apparatus107is notified by the finisher111in step S1309is downstream of the product inspection completion boundary901described with reference toFIGS.9A and9B. If the jam occurrence position is downstream of the product inspection completion boundary901, then in step S1313, the printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109of the start of the product inspection job again. At this time, the printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109of the correct answer image group ID of which the printing apparatus107is notified by the external controller102in step S1302and information regarding a beginning sheet ID of the beginning sheet for the reprinting determined by the printing apparatus107in step S1312. The beginning sheet ID is an ID for notifying the product inspection apparatus109of the ordinal number of the sheet of the print job from which the reprinting is to be performed.

In step S1314, the product inspection apparatus109confirms information set through the printing apparatus107. If necessary, the product inspection apparatus109updates the settings of the product inspection job generated in step S1301. In the examples ofFIGS.10A to10E, when the jam occurs, the product inspection start sheet ID is set by the product inspection apparatus109to the sheet P5, which will be subjected to the product inspection next. However, the beginning sheet ID for the reprinting determined by the printing apparatus107is the sheet P3, and thus the product inspection apparatus109changes the setting of the product inspection start sheet ID from the sheet P5to the sheet P3. Further, the product inspection apparatus109deletes the product inspection results of the sheets P3and P4already subjected to the product inspection at this time. Then, the processing returns to step S1305, and in step S1305, the printing apparatus107resumes the printing from the sheet P3.

Although the beginning sheet ID is used in step S1314, a method may be employed in which the printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109without using the beginning sheet ID. This method is described below. Based on the jam sheet ID and sheet information regarding a sheet having passed through the product inspection completion boundary901that is acquired from the sheet detection sensor905, the printing apparatus107determines the number of sheets that are sheets already subjected to the product inspection and also jam sheets. In the examples ofFIGS.10A to10E, sheets that are sheets already subjected to the product inspection and also jam sheets correspond to the sheets P3and P4. Thus, the printing apparatus107determines that the number of sheets is two. The printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109of the determined number “two” as a product inspection result deletion ID. If the product inspection apparatus109receives the product inspection result deletion ID, the product inspection apparatus109deletes the product inspection results of the sheets P3and P4already subjected to the product inspection. Then, the processing returns to step S1305, and in step S1305, the printing apparatus107resumes the printing from the sheet P3.

The image scanned by the product inspection apparatus109in step S1306is an image of the sheet P3and matches the product inspection start sheet ID of which the setting is previously changed by the product inspection apparatus109. Thus, in step S1307, the product inspection apparatus109can perform correct product inspection without a shift in the comparison target.

In the sequence described with reference toFIG.13, if a jam occurs, the printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109of the beginning sheet ID for the reprinting. Alternatively, an apparatus in which the jam occurs may directly notify the product inspection apparatus109of the beginning sheet ID.

In the first exemplary embodiment, a description is given of the sequence where the external controller102separately inputs the correct answer image registration job and the product inspection target job. Alternatively, a configuration may be employed in which the external controller102inputs the correct answer image registration job and the product inspection target job as a single job, and the printing apparatus107executes each of the correct answer image registration job and the product inspection target job.

A description has been given above of the sequence where the printing apparatus107recovers from a jam. Depending on the external controller102, however, the external controller102may recover from a jam. Specifically, this processing is as follows. If a jam occurs, the external controller102cancels a job that is in a suspended state due to the occurrence of the jam, generates a new print job composed of subsequent sheets, and inputs the job to the printing apparatus107.

With reference toFIG.14, a description is given of a sequence in a case where a jam occurs during the execution of a product inspection job, and the external controller102recovers from the jam. The detailed operation of each apparatus is as described with reference toFIG.2, and processing specialized in a jam during a product inspection job is described here.

The processes of steps S1401to S1410are similar to those of steps S1301to S1310in the sequence described with reference toFIG.13, and therefore, step S1411and subsequent steps are described. In step S1411, the printing apparatus107notifies the external controller102that the jam occurs.

In step S1412, the operator removes jam sheets in the printing apparatus107.

In step S1413, the external controller102requests the printing apparatus107to cancel the print job input in step S1402.

In step S1414, based on the request from the external controller102, the printing apparatus107performs a cancellation process for cancelling the print job that is being suspended. The printing apparatus107performs the cancellation process, thereby deleting information regarding the print job from the memory223of the printing apparatus107.

In step S1415, based on information regarding the jam notification in step S1411, the external controller102identifies a sheet that needs to be subjected to reprinting. Then, the external controller102generates a new print job composed of pages of the identified sheet and subsequent sheets. From this point onward, the processing is similar to that in the sequence for inputting the product inspection target job and therefore proceeds to step S1402.

In step S1402, the external controller102inputs the new print job to the printing apparatus107. At this time, as the product inspection target job and the correct answer image group ID, the same parameters as those of the job before the occurrence of the jam are specified. As the product inspection start sheet ID, an ID is specified that indicates the ordinal number of the sheet in the correct answer images to which the beginning sheet of the newly input print job corresponds.

In step S1403, the printing apparatus107notifies the product inspection apparatus109of the start of a product inspection job together with the information regarding the correct answer image group ID and the product inspection start sheet ID of which the printing apparatus107is notified by the external controller102.

In step S1404, the product inspection apparatus109confirms settings which are made through the printing apparatus107and of which the product inspection apparatus109is notified with the start of the product inspection job. If necessary, the product inspection apparatus109updates the settings of the product inspection job generated in step S1401. The product inspection apparatus109is in the state where the product inspection apparatus109does not recognize that the job processed by the printing apparatus107before the occurrence of the jam is cancelled, and that the new job is input from the external controller102. In the examples ofFIGS.10A to10E, this is the state where the product inspection apparatus109waits for a scanned image of the sheet P5. The external controller102, however, inputs the job with the product inspection start sheet ID indicating the sheet P3. If the product inspection apparatus109receives the product inspection start sheet ID, the product inspection apparatus109changes the setting of the product inspection start sheet ID from the sheet P5to the sheet P3. Further, the product inspection apparatus109deletes the product inspection results of the sheets P3and P4already subjected to the product inspection at this time.

Then, the processes of steps S1405to S1414are repeated until printing on all the sheets is completed.

As described above, even if the external controller102recovers from a jam, the external controller102issues a notification of the product inspection start sheet ID, and based on information regarding the product inspection start sheet ID, the product inspection apparatus109updates the setting of the product inspection and thereby can perform correct product inspection without a shift in the comparison target.

Other Exemplary Embodiments

While various examples and exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are not limited to a particular description in the specification.

Embodiments of the present disclosure can also be achieved by the process of supplying a program for achieving one or more functions of the above exemplary embodiments to a system or an apparatus via a network or a storage medium, and of causing one or more processors of a computer of the system or the apparatus to read and execute the program. Embodiments of the present disclosure can also be achieved by a circuit (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) for achieving the one or more functions.

Other Embodiments

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-131093, filed Aug. 11, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.