Patent Publication Number: US-2023132446-A1

Title: Image inspection apparatus, image inspection method of image inspection apparatus, and image inspection system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority from Japanese patent Application No. 2021-178606, filed on Nov. 1, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The present invention relates to an image inspection apparatus, an image inspection method of the image inspection apparatus, and an image inspection system. 
     Description of Related Art 
     As a technique related to an image inspection apparatus, JP 2020-11472 A discloses a technique that “An image inspection apparatus includes: a reader that reads an image formed on a sheet by an image forming apparatus and generates a read image; a read image analyzer that performs analysis to detect an abnormality in the read image and generates an analysis result; and a file generator that generates a normal image file including the read image in which no abnormality has been detected based on the analysis result.” (see Abstract of JP 2020-11472 A). 
     A maximum sheet size of a normal electrophotographic printer is generally A3 size, which is 297 [mm]×420 [mm]. Meanwhile, in a large one-pass inkjet machine, the maximum sheet size exceeds B2 (515 [mm]×728 [mm]) and is 585 [mm]×750 [mm]. 
     As an image reader for image inspection of a large printer, for example, there is an image reader that acquires a read image of the entire sheet width by a configuration in which two imaging units are connected to each other in parallel. This is because, in general, the configuration in which the two imaging units are connected to each other in parallel is often more advantageous in terms of cost than a case of adopting one imaging unit formed long in a main scanning direction. As a result, the image reader can read two read images divided in the sheet width direction. 
     Here, two image processors analyze the two read images divided in the sheet width direction in parallel, respectively. In a case where two image processors process two read images in parallel, respectively, a processing speed only need to be a half of that in a case where a single read image is analyzed by one image processor, which is advantageous in terms of cost. 
     JP 2020-11472 A describes that an analysis result file is generated by analyzing a read image. However, JP 2020-11472 A does not describe generation of an image inspection result in a case where the read image is divided in a sheet width direction, and does not meet a demand for generation of the image inspection result in the case where the read image is divided in the sheet width direction. 
     SUMMARY 
     Therefore, one or more embodiments of the present invention suitably generate an image inspection result in a case where a read image is divided in a sheet width direction. 
     According to an aspect of the present invention, an image inspection apparatus comprises: 
     a reader that reads an image formed on a recording medium; 
     a first inspector (i.e., a first processor) that inspects a first read image including one of divisions (or divided images) obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in a main scanning direction; 
     a second inspector (i.e., a second processor) that inspects a second read image including the other of the divisions obtained by dividing the image; 
     a first generator (i.e., the first processor) that generates first inspection image data related to the first read image based on an inspection result of the first inspector; and 
     a second generator (i.e., the second processor) that generates second inspection image data related to the second read image based on an inspection result of the second inspector. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features provided by one or more embodiments of the invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the appended drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention: 
         FIG.  1    is an overall configuration diagram of an image inspection system of a first embodiment; 
         FIG.  2    is a hardware configuration diagram of the image inspection system of the first embodiment; 
         FIG.  3    is a functional block diagram illustrating functions of the image inspection system of the first embodiment; 
         FIG.  4    is a diagram illustrating a report including a result bookmark hierarchy; 
         FIG.  5    is a diagram illustrating a display example of an inspection result file including a result bookmark hierarchy; 
         FIG.  6    is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file obtained by combining inspection images; 
         FIG.  7    is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file obtained by combining inspection images only for an abnormal image in a read image; 
         FIG.  8 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which an inspection image is kept divided (part 1); 
         FIG.  8 B  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which an inspection image is kept divided (part 2); 
         FIG.  9 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which an inspection image is kept divided only for an abnormal image in a read image (part 1); 
         FIG.  9 B  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which an inspection image is kept divided only for an abnormal image in a read image (part 2); 
         FIG.  10 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided; 
         FIG.  10 B  is a screen example obtained by displaying an inspection result file in which inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided in a double-page spread manner; 
         FIG.  11 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which two images including no abnormality are not included and inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided, unlike  FIG.  10 A ; 
         FIG.  11 B  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which two images including no abnormality are not included and inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided, unlike  FIG.  10 B ; 
         FIG.  12 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided and to which a result bookmark hierarchy is added; 
         FIG.  12 B  is a screen example obtained by displaying an inspection result file in which inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided and to which a result bookmark hierarchy is added in a double-page spread manner; 
         FIG.  13 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which two images including no abnormality are not included and inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided, and to which a result bookmark hierarchy is added, unlike  FIG.  11 A ; 
         FIG.  13 B  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which two images including no abnormality are not included and inspection images are alternately arranged while being divided, and to which a result bookmark hierarchy is added, unlike  FIG.  11 B ; 
         FIG.  14    is an overall configuration diagram of an image inspection system of a fifth embodiment; and 
         FIG.  15    is an overall configuration diagram of an image inspection system of a sixth embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Note that the embodiments described below are examples for implementing the present invention, and should be appropriately modified or changed according to the configuration of an apparatus to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted appropriately. 
     First Embodiment 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  1   , an image inspection system  500  of a first embodiment includes two computers  1  and  2  as image inspection apparatuses, two scanners (a first scanner  3  and a second scanner  4 ) as readers, and a computer  5  as a report generator and an inspection result file generator. As a result, the image inspection system  500  can inspect an image on a printed matter  200  printed by one printer  6  as an image forming apparatus. 
     The printer  6  outputs the printed matter  200  obtained by printing an image on a recording sheet. The printer  6  can be, for example, a one-pass (single-pass) inkjet printer, but is not limited thereto. After being printed by the printer  6 , the printed matter  200  is conveyed in a sub-scanning direction  201  (see  FIG.  1   ) by a known conveyance mechanism (not illustrated). The sub-scanning direction  201  corresponds to a longitudinal direction of the printed matter  200 . A main scanning direction corresponds to a lateral direction of the printed matter  200 . 
     The first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  are a first reader and a second reader that optically read image data printed on the printed matter  200 , respectively. Each of the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  functions as a reader that reads an image formed on the printed matter  200 . The first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  transmit read image data read from the printed matter  200  to the computers  1  and  2  via the buses  511  and  522 , respectively. 
     Since the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  read an image formed on the printed matter  200  as described above, the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction. In addition, the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  are arranged above the conveyed printed matter  200  by a predetermined distance. 
     Here, as the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4 , for example, reduction optical system scanners can be adopted. The first scanner  3  scans a scan area  3 A including a left half area of the printed matter  200 . Specifically, a left end portion of the scan area  3 A of the first scanner  3  is on the left of a left sheet end portion of the printed matter  200  by a predetermined number of pixels, and a right end portion of the scan area  3 A is on the right of a central portion of a lateral width of the printed matter  200  by a predetermined number of pixels. 
     The second scanner  4  scans a scan area  4 A including a right half area of the printed matter  200 . Specifically, a right end portion of the scan area  4 A of the second scanner  4  is on the right of a right sheet end portion of the printed matter  200  by a predetermined number of pixels, and a left end portion of the scan area  4 A is on the left of a central portion of a lateral width of the printed matter  200  by a predetermined number of pixels. 
     Therefore, the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  arranged side by side can acquire image data of the entire width of the printed matter  200 . A central area of the printed matter  200  is scanned by both the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4 . 
     Each of the computers  1  and  2  is an image inspection apparatus that inspects a defect of an image on the printed matter  200  output from the printer  6 . The printed matter  200  is a recording medium on which an image is formed by the printer  6 . The computer  1  is communicably connected to the first scanner  3  by the bus  511 . The computer  2  is communicably connected to the second scanner  4  by the bus  512 . The buses  511  and  522  are each, for example, a camera link, but are not limited thereto. The computer  1  compares read image data read from the left side of the printed matter  200  by the first scanner  3  with correct image data and inspects an image defect. The computer  2  compares read image data read from the right side of the printed matter  200  by the second scanner  4  with correct image data and inspects an image defect. 
     In addition, the computers  1  and  2  are communicably connected to the computer  5  by buses  533  and  544 , respectively, and can exchange predetermined information with the computer  5 . 
     The computer  5  includes a report generator  51  and an inspection result file generator  52  described later. Since the computer  5  includes the report generator  51 , the computer  5  generates a report (report data) based on image data acquired from the computers  1  and  2 . Since the computer  5  includes the inspection result file generator  52 , the computer  5  generates an inspection result file from a report (report data) created by the report generator  51 . 
     In the generated inspection result file, the left side of an image formed on each sheet is arranged on an odd page, and the right side of the image formed on each sheet is arranged on an even page. As a result, a user can view the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner, and therefore can suitably check the entire printed matter. 
     &lt;Hardware Configuration&gt; 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  2   , the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment includes the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4 . As the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4 , charge coupled device (CCD) line sensors  131  and  241  are used, respectively. In addition, in the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment, a frame grabber  1   a , a graphics processing unit (GPU)  1   b , a chip set  1   c , a solid state drive (SSD)  1   d , a processor (i.e., a first processor)  1   e , and a double data rate 4 (DDR4) memory  1   f  are used as a hardware configuration of the computer  1 . 
     The frame grabber  1   a  is a dedicated assembly board having an image data input function. The frame grabber  1   a  acquires image data from the CCD line sensor  131  via the bus  511 . 
     The GPU  1   b  is a processor that performs calculation processing necessary for image depiction. The GPU  1   b  is in charge of an instruction related to image processing among instructions executed by the processor  1   e.    
     The chip set  1   c  is an IC chip that assists the processor  1   e  and controls data transmission between apparatuses and devices. The chip set  1   c  inputs output from the frame grabber  1   a  to the processor  1   e.    
     The SSD  1   d  is an auxiliary storage device that handles a semiconductor memory like a disk drive. The SSD  1   d  stores a predetermined program (including an image inspection program) executed by the processor  1   e.    
     The processor  1   e  is a central processing unit (CPU), and executes an instruction set described in a predetermined program. As a result, the processor  1   e  can implement each function according to the first embodiment. The processor  1   e  is a central processing unit of the computer  1 , and executes a control program to implement functional units such as a first inspector  13  and a first generator  14  described later. 
     The DDR4 memory if is a semiconductor memory capable of reading and writing. The DDR4 memory if is a work area of the processor  1   e.    
     In addition, in the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment, a frame grabber  2   a , a GPU  2   b,  a chip set  2   c,  an SSD  2   d,  a processor (i.e., a second processor)  2   e,  and a DDR4 memory  2   f  are used as a hardware configuration of the computer  2 . The frame grabber  2   a,  the GPU  2   b,  the chip set  2   c,  the SSD  2   d,  the processor  2   e,  and the DDR4 memory  2   f  are the same as the frame grabber  1   a , the GPU  1   b , the chip set  1   c , the SSD  1   d , the processor  1   e , and the DDR4 memory lf, respectively, and description thereof is omitted. 
     The frame grabber  2   a  acquires image data from the CCD line sensor  241  via the bus  522 . The processors  1   e  and  2   e  are connected to the computer  5  via the buses  533  and  544 , respectively. The processor  2   e  is a central processing unit (CPU) of the computer  2 , and executes a control program to implement functional units such as a second inspector  23 , a second generator  24 , a first mirror processor  25 , a second mirror processor  26 , and a third mirror processor  20  described later. 
     The computer  5  includes a processor (i.e., a third processor)  5   a,  a display  5   b,  a storage  5   c , and the like. The processor  5   e  is a central processing unit (CPU), and executes an instruction set described in a predetermined program. As a result, the processor  5   e  can implement each function according to the first embodiment. The processor  5   e  is a central processing unit of the computer  5 , and executes an image inspection program to implement functional units such as a report generator  51  and an inspection result file generator  52  described later. 
     The display  5   b  is constituted by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display  5   b  displays an inspection result file inspected by the computer  1  or  2 . Note that the inspection result file is displayed not only on the computer  5 , and may be displayed on any computer and viewed by a predetermined user. 
     The storage  5   c  is a large-capacity storage device, and is constituted by, for example, a hard disk drive or a nonvolatile memory. The storage  120  stores, for example, an image inspection program, an inspection image, or a report. 
     &lt;Functional Configuration&gt; 
       FIG.  3    is a functional block diagram illustrating functions of the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment. Raster image processor (RIP) image data  100  is stored in the printer  6  or a control device of the printer  6 . As illustrated in  FIG.  3   , the RIP image data  100  is image data in a bitmap format that can be printed by the printer  6  (image forming data used for image formation), and is, for example, a set of pixels indicated by CMYK values. 
     An image divider  101  is included in, for example, the printer  6  or a control device (not illustrated) of the printer  6 . The control device of the printer  6  may comprise a central processing unit (CPU), and the image divider  101  may be implemented as functions of the control device or the CPU. The image divider  101  divides the RIP image data  100  used for printing by the printer  6  into left RIP correct image data  11  and right RIP correct image data  21  at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. Then, the image divider  101  sends the left RIP correct image data  11  to the computer  1  and sends the right RIP correct image data  21  to the computer  2 . 
     The reader  30  reads an image formed on the printed matter  200  (recording medium). The reader  30  of the first embodiment includes the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  arranged at different positions in the main scanning direction of the printed matter  200 . The reader  30  may comprise a central processing unit (CPU) that controls the functions of the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  and/or may be connected to another device such as the computers  1 ,  2 ,  5  and the printer  6  and controlled by the CPU of the other device. 
     The computer  1  of the first embodiment stores the left RIP correct image data  11  divided by the image divider  101  and left read image data  12  (first read image) acquired from the first scanner  3 . The computer  1  includes the first inspector  13  and the first generator  14 . 
     The left RIP correct image data  11  is a left half of the RIP image data  100  used for image formation. The computer  1  receives the left RIP correct image data  11  divided by the image divider  101  from the image divider  101  and stores the left RIP correct image data  11 . 
     The left read image data  12  (first read image) is obtained by the first scanner  3  scanning a left half of the printed matter  200 . The left read image data  12  includes one of divisions obtained by dividing the image formed on the printed matter  200  at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. Here, the predetermined position in the main scanning direction is any position where a scanning area by the first scanner  3  and a scanning area by the second scanner  4  overlap with each other, and is, for example, a center in a width direction of a printing area of the printed matter  200 . The predetermined position in the main scanning direction is also a position obtained by projecting a position at which the image divider  101  divided the RIP image data  100  used for printing by the printer  6  onto a printing area of the printed matter  200 . 
     The first inspector  13  inspects the left read image data  12 . Specifically, the first inspector  13  recognizes a left end of the printed matter  200  on the left side of the left read image data  12 , and thus recognizes an image area of the printed matter  200 . Then, the first inspector  13  compares the left RIP correct image data  11  with an image area of the left read image data  12 , and detects an image defect of the left read image data  12 . For example, the first inspector  13  determines whether or not a difference between a C (cyan) M (magenta) Y (yellow) K (black) value of a pixel at a predetermined position in the left read image data  12  and a CMYK value of a pixel at a corresponding position in the left RIP correct image data  11  falls within a predetermined range. 
     In a case where the difference in CMYK value between the predetermined position in the left RIP correct image data  11  and the corresponding position in the left read image data  12  deviates from the predetermined range, the first inspector  13  determines that there is an image defect at the corresponding position of the left read image data  12 . 
     The first generator  14  generates first inspection image data (inspection image) related to the left read image data  12  (first read image) based on the inspection result of the first inspector  13 . 
     Meanwhile, the computer  2  of the first embodiment stores the right RIP correct image data  21  divided by the image divider  101  and right read image data  22  (second read image) acquired from the second scanner  4 . The computer  2  includes the second inspector  23 , the second generator  24 , the first mirror processor  25 , the second mirror processor  26 , and the third mirror processor  20 . 
     The right RIP correct image data  21  is a right half of the RIP image data  100  used for image formation. The computer  2  receives the right RIP correct image data  21  divided by the image divider  101  from the image divider  101  and stores the right RIP correct image data  21 . 
     The right read image data  22  (second read image) is obtained by the second scanner  4  scanning a right half of the printed matter  200 . The right read image data  22  includes the other of the divisions obtained by dividing the image formed on the printed matter  200  at the predetermined position in the main scanning direction. 
     The first mirror processor  25  of the computer  2  mirror-inverts the right read image data  22 . The second mirror processor  26  of the computer  2  mirror-inverts the right RIP correct image data  21 . As a result, detection processing in the second inspector  23  can be the same as detection processing in the first inspector  13  of the computer  1 . 
     The second inspector  23  inspects the right read image data  22 . Specifically, the second inspector  23  recognizes a right end of the printed matter  200  on the left side of the mirror-inverted right read image data  22 , and thus recognizes the image area of the printed matter  200 . Then, the second inspector  23  compares the mirror-inverted right RIP correct image data  21  with the image area of the mirror-inverted right read image data  22 , and detects an image defect of the mirror-inverted right read image data  22 . For example, the second inspector  23  determines whether or not a difference between a CMYK value of a pixel at a predetermined position in the mirror-inverted right read image data  22  and a CMYK value of a pixel at a corresponding position in the mirror-inverted right RIP correct image data  21  falls within a predetermined range. 
     In a case where the difference in CMYK value between the predetermined position of the right RIP correct image data  21  and the corresponding position of the right read image data  22  deviates from the predetermined range, the second inspector  23  determines that there is an image defect at the corresponding position of the right read image data  22 . 
     Then, the third mirror processor  20  mirror-inverts and returns the mirror-inverted second inspection image data to the original position, and changes the coordinates of the inspection data to the mirror-inverted position. 
     For example, in a case where the right read image data  22  and the right RIP correct image data  21  are not mirror-inverted, the second inspector  23  needs to perform a mirror-inverted operation with respect to an operation of the first inspector  13 , and it is necessary to create different detection programs between the second inspector  23  and the first inspector  13 . In the first embodiment, since the first mirror processor  25 , the second mirror processor  26 , and the third mirror processor  20  are disposed, an inspection program of the first inspector  13  and an inspection program of the second inspector  23  can be the same. 
     Note that the first mirror processor  25 , the second mirror processor  26 , and the third mirror processor  20  are disposed in the computer  2 , but may be disposed in the computer  1 . The first mirror processor  25 , the second mirror processor  26 , and the third mirror processor  20  are optional components, and an operation of the second inspector  23  may be mirror-inversion with respect to an operation of the first inspector  13 . 
     The second generator  24  generates second inspection image data (inspection image) related to the right read image data  22  (second read image) based on the inspection result of the second inspector  23 . 
     The first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  may add information on the order of the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively. In this case, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  add information on the order to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively such that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are continuous. The report generator  51  alternately arranges the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in a report. 
     Furthermore, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  may add information on the order to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively such that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately continuous. At this time, the report generator  51  arranges the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in a report based on the order information added to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  can transmit pieces of the generated first inspection image data and pieces of the generated second inspection image data one by one, respectively. At this time, the first generator  14  and the second generator  24  may alternately transmit pieces of the first inspection image data and pieces of the second inspection image data one by one, respectively. The report generator  51  arranges the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in a report in the order of reception. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  may collectively transmit a plurality of pieces of the first inspection image data and a plurality of pieces of the second inspection image data, respectively. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  may add information on the reader  30  (the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4 ) that has read the left read image data  12  or the right read image data  22  to the first inspection image data and/or the second inspection image data. In a case where either the left read image data  12  or the right read image data  22  includes an abnormality, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  may generate another inspection image data. 
     Note that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data may include inspection results for the left read image data  12  and the right read image data  22 , respectively. The inspection results include, for example, noise information and level information. 
     Meanwhile, the computer  5  of the first embodiment includes the report generator  51  and the inspection result file generator  52  described above. 
     The report generator  51  alternately allocates (arranges) the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in units of pages to generate a report (report data). 
     The inspection result file generator  52  generates a file in a format such as a portable document format (PDF) from the report data in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately allocated in units of pages. In this case, for example, the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data constituting the report data are in a JPEG format. The inspection result file generator  52  integrates the plurality of pieces of first inspection image data and the plurality of pieces of second inspection image data into one PDF in the order of file names. 
     &lt;Report Function&gt; 
       FIG.  4    is an explanatory diagram illustrating a concept of a report including a result bookmark hierarchy. 
     Each of images  300  and  320  illustrated in  FIG.  4    is an image obtained by reading the printed matter  200  in units of pages. 
     The image  300  includes an abnormality  301  and an abnormality  302 . The abnormality  301  indicates a black streak, and the abnormality  302  indicates dirt. In addition, the image  320  includes an abnormality  323 . The abnormality  323  indicates a white streak. 
     Inspection result data  310  is text data in which coordinates of an abnormal portion of the image  300  are described. Here, coordinates  311  of the abnormality  301  and coordinates  312  of the abnormality  302  are described. Inspection result data  330  is text data in which coordinates of an abnormal portion of the image  320  are described. Here, coordinates  333  of the abnormality  323  are described. 
       FIG.  5    is a diagram illustrating a display example of an inspection result file including a result bookmark hierarchy. 
     The inspection result file includes the inspection images illustrated in  FIG.  4    and a result bookmark hierarchy superimposed on the inspection images. Information such as coordinates of an abnormal portion and the type of abnormality is stored in the result bookmark hierarchy. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  5   , a PDF viewer displays a title or a balloon indicating the abnormality  301  at coordinates  311  and a title or a balloon indicating the abnormality  302  at coordinates  312  while the titles and the balloons are superimposed on the image  350 . Similarly, the PDF viewer displays a title or a balloon indicating the abnormality  323  at coordinates  333  while the title and the balloon are superimposed on the image  360 . 
     In this case, as illustrated in  FIG.  5   , the report generator  51  allocates the inspection image data in a JPEG format and the inspection result data storing information such as the coordinates of an abnormal portion and the type of abnormality. The inspection result file generator  52  generates an inspection result file in which the coordinates of an abnormal portion, the type of abnormality, and the like are allocated to the result bookmark hierarchy, for example, in a PDF format while the inspection result file is superimposed on the inspection image data in a JPEG format. As a result, the PDF viewer can display a title or a balloon corresponding to the coordinates of the abnormal portion while the title and the balloon are superimposed on the inspection image. Note that the format of the inspection result file is not limited to PDF. The viewer is not limited to the PDF viewer. 
     COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 1 
     Here, as a comparative example, a display example of an inspection result file obtained by combining conventional inspection images will be described. Note that the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted appropriately. 
       FIG.  6    is an explanatory diagram illustrating an inspection result file obtained by combining inspection images.  FIG.  7    is an explanatory diagram illustrating an inspection result file obtained by combining inspection images only for an abnormal image in a read image. Each of  FIGS.  6  and  7    illustrates an inspection result file obtained by combining inspection images. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  6   , an image  351  includes the abnormality  301  indicating a black streak and the abnormality  302  indicating dirt. Meanwhile, an image  361  includes the abnormality  323  indicating a white streak. Meanwhile, no abnormality is detected in an image  371 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  7   , the image  351  and the image  361  are the same as those in  FIG.  6   . However, since no abnormality is detected in the image  371  in  FIG.  6   , the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  7    does not include the image  371  in which no abnormality is detected. 
     COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 2 
       FIGS.  8 A and  8 B  are each a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which an inspection image is kept divided.  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B  are each a diagram illustrating an inspection result file in which an inspection image is kept divided only for an abnormal image in a read image. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8 A , an image  353  includes the abnormality  301  indicating a black streak. No abnormality is detected in an image  363 . No abnormality is detected in an image  373 . Since each of the images  353 ,  363 , and  373  is a left half of one page, it is difficult to grasp the image quality and the like of the entire page of the printed matter  200 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8 B , an image  354  includes the abnormality  302  indicating dirt. Meanwhile, an image  364  includes the abnormality  323  indicating a white streak. Meanwhile, no abnormality is detected in an image  374 . Since each of the images  354 ,  364 , and  374  is a right half of one page, it is difficult to grasp the image quality and the like of the entire page of the printed matter  200 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  9 A , the image  353  is the same as that in  FIG.  8 A . However, since no abnormality is detected in the image  363  and the image  373  in  FIG.  8 A , the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  9 A  does not include the image  363  and the image  373  in which no abnormality is detected. Therefore, in this inspection result file, the image quality of the entire page of the printed matter  200  constituted by the images  363  and  364  or the images  373  and  374  cannot be grasped. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  9 B , the image  354  and the image  364  are the same as those in  FIG.  8 B . However, since no abnormality is detected in the image  374  in  FIG.  8 B , the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  9 B  does not include the image  374 . Therefore, in this inspection result file, the image quality of the entire page of the printed matter  200  constituted by the images  373  and  374  cannot be grasped. 
       FIG.  10 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file generated by the image inspection system  500 . 
     In the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  10 A , the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are arranged so as to be alternately continuous. Specifically, an image  381  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a first printed matter  200  is arranged on a first page of the inspection result file. An image  382  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the first printed matter  200  is arranged on a second page of the inspection result file. 
     An image  383  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a second printed matter  200  is arranged on a third page of the inspection result file. An image  384  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the second printed matter  200  is arranged on a fourth page of the inspection result file. 
     An image  385  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a third printed matter  200  is arranged on a fifth page of the inspection result file. An image  386  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the third printed matter  200  is arranged on a sixth page of the inspection result file. 
     Returning to  FIG.  3   , the description will be continued. The first generator  14  adds information such that each of the images  381 ,  383 , and  385  is arranged on the left side of an inspection image. For example, the first generator  14  assigns an odd number starting from 1 to a file name or a data name on the left side of a page of each printed matter  200 . 
     Meanwhile, the second generator  24  of the computer  2  adds information on the order to the images  382 ,  384 , and  386  which are the second inspection image data such that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately continuous. Specifically, the second generator  24  adds information such that each of the images  382 ,  384 , and  386  is arranged on the right side of an inspection image. For example, the second generator  24  assigns an even number starting from 2 to a file name or a data name on the right side of a page of each printed matter  200 . 
     As a result, the report generator  51  generates a report in which the left side of an image formed on each sheet is arranged on an odd page, and the right side of the image formed on each sheet is arranged on an even page. Then, the inspection result file generator  52  generates an inspection result file from the report. As a result, the inspection result file is displayed by a PDF viewer such that each page of the first inspection image data and each page of the second inspection image data are alternately continuous. 
     Here, in the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  10 A , the image  381  includes the abnormality  301  indicating a black streak. The image  382  includes the abnormality  302  indicating dirt. 
     No abnormality is detected in the image  383 . The image  384  includes the abnormality  323  indicating a white streak. 
     No abnormality is detected in the images  385  and  386 . 
     Returning to  FIG.  3   , the description will be continued. The report generator  51  of the computer  5  acquires the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data and generates a report (report data) in which the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately allocated (arranged). The inspection result file generator  52  generates an inspection result file, for example, in a PDF format from this report data. For example, when viewing the inspection result file, a user uses a double-page spread display function of a PDF viewer. 
       FIG.  10 B  is a diagram illustrating an example in which an inspection result file is viewed in a double-page spread manner. 
     A PDF viewer displays the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  10 A  in a double-page spread manner. The PDF viewer may display the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in a double-page spread manner correspondingly to arrangement of the first read image and the second read image. That is, the PDF viewer displays a first page and a second page of the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner, thereby displaying the image  381  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a first printed matter  200  and the image  382  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the first printed matter  200  in a double-page spread manner. 
     In this case, the image  381  belonging to the first inspection image data is arranged on the first page of the inspection result file, and is therefore displayed on the left side in a double-page spread manner by the PDF viewer. Meanwhile, the image  382  belonging to the second inspection image data is arranged on the second page of the inspection result file, and is therefore displayed on the right side in a double-page spread manner by the PDF viewer. 
     The PDF viewer displays a third page and a fourth page of the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner, thereby displaying the image  383  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a second printed matter  200  and the image  384  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the second printed matter  200  in a double-page spread manner. 
     In this case, the image  383  belonging to the first inspection image data is arranged on the third page of the inspection result file, and is therefore displayed on the left side in a double-page spread manner by the PDF viewer. Meanwhile, the image  384  belonging to the second inspection image data is arranged on the fourth page of the inspection result file, and is therefore displayed on the right side in a double-page spread manner by the PDF viewer. 
     Then, the PDF viewer displays a fifth page and a sixth page of the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner, thereby displaying the image  385  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a third printed matter  200  and the image  386  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the third printed matter  200  in a double-page spread manner. 
     In this case, the image  385  belonging to the first inspection image data is arranged on the fifth page of the inspection result file, and is therefore displayed on the left side in a double-page spread manner by the PDF viewer. Meanwhile, the image  386  belonging to the second inspection image data is arranged on the sixth page of the inspection result file, and is therefore displayed on the right side in a double-page spread manner by the PDF viewer. 
     In this manner, the report generator  51  can generate and alternately arrange the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in units of one page. 
     Note that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data may include inspection results for the left read image data  12  (first read image) and the right read image data  22  (second read image), respectively. The inspection results include, for example, noise information and level information. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  and the second generator  24  may add information on the reader that has read the left read image data  12  or the right read image data  22  to the first inspection image data and/or the second inspection image data. For example, the first generator  14  adds information of the first scanner  3  of the reader  30  to the first inspection image data. The second generator  24  adds information of the second scanner  4  of the reader  30  to the second inspection image data. 
     In this manner, the report generator  51  of the computer  5  generates a report in which the left side and the right side of an image formed on each sheet are alternately allocated. In the inspection result file generated based on this report, the entire page of the original printed matter can be viewed by a double-page spread display function of a PDF viewer (application for viewing). 
     As a result, the image inspection system  500  can implement viewing substantially equivalent to a case of combining left and right inspection images and then generating a report. In other words, the image inspection system  500  can allocate each image such that a user can suitably view an inspection image and an inspection result report on the same sheet. 
     As described above, the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment includes the first scanner  3 , the second scanner  4 , the first inspector  13 , the second inspector  23 , the first generator  14 , and the second generator  24 . 
     Each of the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  reads an image formed on the printed matter  200 . That is, the first scanner  3  reads the left read image data  12  including one of divisions obtained by dividing the image on the printed matter  200  at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. That is, the second scanner  4  reads the right read image data  22  including the other of the divisions obtained by dividing the image on the printed matter  200  at the predetermined position in the main scanning direction. 
     The first inspector  13  inspects the left read image data  12  including one of divisions obtained by dividing the image at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. The second inspector  23  inspects the right read image data  22  including the other of the divisions obtained by dividing the image at the predetermined position in the main scanning direction. The first generator  14  generates the first inspection image data (inspection image) related to the left read image data  12  based on the inspection result of the first inspector  13 . The second generator  24  generates the second inspection image data (inspection image) related to the right read image data  22  based on the inspection result of the second inspector  23 . 
     As a result, the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment can suitably generate an image inspection result in a case where a read image is divided in a sheet width direction, and can further meet the demand for generation of the image inspection result in a case where the read image is divided in the sheet width direction. The demand related to the generation of the image inspection result in a case where the read image is divided in the sheet width direction is, for example, checking the generated image inspection result in units of pages or creating a report of the image inspection result without deteriorating performance of the inspection. 
     Note that the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  can add information on the order of the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively. 
     In this case, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  can add information on the order to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively such that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are continuous. 
     Furthermore, the first generator  14  of the computer  1  and the second generator  24  of the computer  2  may add information on the order to the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively such that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data are alternately continuous. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  and the second generator  24  may transmit pieces of the generated first inspection image data and pieces of the generated second inspection image data one by one, respectively. In this case, the first generator  14  and the second generator  24  may alternately transmit pieces of the first inspection image data and pieces of the second inspection image data one by one, respectively. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  and the second generator  24  may collectively transmit a plurality of pieces of the first inspection image data and a plurality of pieces of the second inspection image data, respectively. 
     In addition, the first generator  14  and the second generator  24  can generate the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data, respectively in a case where one of the first read image and the second read image includes an abnormality. As a result, the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data can be arranged in a report so as to be displayed in a double-page spread manner all the time by a PDF viewer. 
     Here, as described above, the report includes an inspection image and an inspection result including an image defect portion and the type of defect. In a case where the report is created based on an analysis result of an inspection image divided into the left side and the right side, the report is generated for each of the left and right inspection images. In this case, the left and right inspection images are originally the inspection image obtained by analyzing an image on the same sheet, but a user views the report in which the image on the same sheet is divided into the left side and the right side. That is, it is difficult for the user to view the entire sheet. 
     Therefore, in order to make it easy for the user to view the entire sheet, it is conceivable to combine two read images on the left side and the right side on the same sheet and then perform inspection. However, since the area of the image to be analyzed is large, a higher-speed image processor is required. 
     In addition, in order to make it easy for the user to view the entire sheet, it is also conceivable to combine two inspection images on the left side and the right side to create a report. However, when the report is created during an inspection, there is a concern that performance of the inspection is deteriorated. As a result, another image processor or a higher-speed image processor is required. 
     Therefore, the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment assigns each image such that a user can suitably view a report of a result of dividing an image formed on each sheet into two and inspecting the divided images. That is, the image inspection system  500  arranges the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data in the report such that the first inspection image data and the second inspection image data can be displayed in a double-page spread manner by a PDF viewer. 
     As a result, in a case where an image formed on the printed matter  200  is divided into two and inspected, the image inspection system  500  of the first embodiment can allow a user to suitably view an inspection image and an inspection result report on the same sheet. 
     Second Embodiment 
     A report generator  51  of a computer  5  of a second embodiment generates a report such that the report does not include an inspection image in which each of left read image data  12  and right read image data  22  includes no abnormality. As a result, the number of pages and the data size of an inspection result file can be reduced. 
     The report generator  51  of the second embodiment is different from the report generator  51  of the first embodiment in that two images  385  and  386  including no abnormality are not included in a report unlike  FIGS.  10 A and  10 B  of the first embodiment. 
       FIG.  11 A  is a diagram illustrating an inspection result file generated by the image inspection system  500 . The inspection result file of  FIG.  11 A  includes images  381  to  384  similarly to the inspection result file of  FIG.  10 A , but does not include images  385  and  386  constituting a page of a third printed matter  200  including no abnormality. The image  383  includes no abnormality, but a second printed matter  200  includes an abnormality  323 . Therefore, the inspection result file includes the images  383  and  384  in order to display the entire page of the second printed matter  200  in a double-page spread manner. 
       FIG.  11 B  is a diagram illustrating an example in which the inspection result file of  FIG.  11 A  is viewed in a double-page spread manner. A PDF viewer displays the inspection result file illustrated in  FIG.  11 A  in a double-page spread manner. The PDF viewer displays a first page and a second page of the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner, thereby displaying the image  381  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a first printed matter  200  and the image  382  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the first printed matter  200  in a double-page spread manner. As a result, a user can grasp the state of the entire page of the first printed matter  200  and grasp that the abnormalities  301  and  302  exist. 
     In addition, the PDF viewer displays a third page and a fourth page of the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner, thereby displaying the image  383  of the first inspection image data including the page left side of a second printed matter  200  and the image  384  of the second inspection image data including the page right side of the second printed matter  200  in a double-page spread manner. As a result, a user can grasp the state of the entire page of the second printed matter  200  and grasp that the abnormality  323  exists. 
     In addition, the inspection result file does not include the two images  385  and  386  each including no abnormality. As a result, by excluding, for example, inspection image data including no abnormality of the printed matter  200  from the inspection result file, the inspection result file can reduce the file size of the inspection result file. Furthermore, in a case where each of an inspection image on the left side and an inspection image on the right side on the printed matter  200  includes no abnormality, inspection image data of the printed matter  200  is excluded from the inspection result file. As a result, a user can view a combination of an odd page and an even page of the inspection result file in a double-page spread manner in association with any of the printed matters  200 . 
     Third Embodiment 
     An inspection result file of a third embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  12 A  is obtained by combining inspection result data corresponding to images  381  to  386  (text data in which the coordinates of an abnormal portion are described) with the inspection result file of the first embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  10 A . As a result, a result bookmark hierarchy of the inspection result file can include coordinates  311  of an abnormality  301 , coordinates  312  of an abnormality  302 , and coordinates  333  of an abnormality  323 . 
     By combining the inspection result data with the result bookmark hierarchy of the inspection result file, a PDF viewer can display a title or a balloon indicating an abnormality. 
       FIG.  12 B  is a diagram illustrating an example in which the inspection result file of  FIG.  12 A  is viewed in a double-page spread manner. As a result, a user can grasp the state of the entire page of a printed matter  200 , can grasp that an abnormality exists, and can grasp the content of the abnormality by the title or the balloon. 
     Fourth Embodiment 
     An inspection result file of a fourth embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  13 A  is obtained by combining inspection result data corresponding to images  381  to  384  (text data in which the coordinates of an abnormal portion are described) with the inspection result file of the second embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  11 A . As a result, a result bookmark hierarchy of the inspection result file can include coordinates  311  of an abnormality  301 , coordinates  312  of an abnormality  302 , and coordinates  333  of an abnormality  323 . 
     By combining the inspection result data with the result bookmark hierarchy of the inspection result file, a PDF viewer can display a title or a balloon indicating an abnormality. 
       FIG.  13 B  is a diagram illustrating an example in which the inspection result file of  FIG.  13 A  is viewed in a double-page spread manner. As a result, a user can grasp the state of the entire page of a printed matter  200 , can grasp that an abnormality exists, and can grasp the content of the abnormality by the title or the balloon. Furthermore, by excluding a left inspection image and a right inspection image of a third printed matter  200  including no abnormality, the inspection result file can reduce the number of pages and the file size of the inspection result file. 
     Fifth Embodiment 
       FIG.  14    is an overall configuration diagram of an image inspection system  501  of a fifth embodiment. As illustrated in  FIG.  14   , a reader  31  of the image inspection system  501  includes a scanner  7  and an image divider  102  instead of the first scanner  3  and the second scanner  4  of the image inspection system  500  illustrated in the first embodiment. The reader  31  may comprise a central processing unit (CPU) that functions as the image divider  102  and controls the functions of the scanner  7  and/or may be connected to another device such as the computers  1 ,  2 ,  5  and the printer  6  and controlled by the CPU of the other device. 
     The scanner  7  reads an image formed on a printed matter  200 . For example, the scanner  7  has a longer length in a main scanning direction than the width of the printed matter  200 , and can be read the image at one time. 
     The image divider  102  divides the image read by the scanner  7  into left read image data  12  (first read image) and right read image data  22  (second read image) at a predetermined position in the main scanning direction. 
     As a result, the image divider  102  can divide even an image read by one scanner  7 . Therefore, the first inspector  13  and the second inspector  23  can inspect the left read image data  12  and the right read image data  22  in parallel, respectively. 
     Therefore, the image inspection system  501  of the fifth embodiment can exhibit similar effects to those of the image inspection system  500  described in the first to fourth embodiments. 
     Sixth Embodiment 
       FIG.  15    is an overall configuration diagram of an image inspection system  502  of a sixth embodiment. As illustrated in  FIG.  15   , the image inspection system  502  includes a third inspector  17  and a fifth inspector  18  in a first inspector  13 , and includes a fourth inspector  27  and a sixth inspector  28  in a second inspector  23 . 
     To the third inspector  17  and the fifth inspector  18 , for example, inspectors that perform analysis according to an inspection item are assigned. Each of the third inspector  17  and the fifth inspector  18  can generate an inspection image and inspection result data (text data in which the coordinates of an abnormal portion are described) in parallel. 
     Meanwhile, similarly to the third inspector  17  and the fifth inspector  18 , to the fourth inspector  27  and the sixth inspector  28 , for example, inspectors that perform analysis according to an inspection item are assigned. Each of the fourth inspector  27  and the sixth inspector  28  can generate an inspection image and inspection result data (text data in which the coordinates of an abnormal portion are described) in parallel. 
     As a result, the image inspection system  502  of the sixth embodiment can further improve performance of an inspection, and can perform image inspection even with a lower-speed computer. Furthermore, in the image inspection system  502  of the sixth embodiment, the first inspector  13  may include a plurality of inspectors, and the second inspector  23  may include a plurality of inspectors in the image inspection system  501  of the fifth embodiment. 
     Although the disclosure has been described with respect to only a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that various other embodiments may be devised without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the attached claims.