JP2005238817A - Printing result inspection device, image forming device, printing result inspection method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To appropriately perform quality inspection of the result of printing to preprinted forms available in a plurality of kinds of formats even if the preprinted forms are selectively taken out from a form tray and printed. <P>SOLUTION: The printing result inspection device acquires preprinted image data corresponding to inspection image data to be inspected from a preprinted image data storage section 31 storing the preprinted image data in a state of being associated with the form tray storing the preprinted forms, a masking section 32 masks the preprinted image area of the inspection image data, using the preprinted image data acquired, a collating section 35 collates the masked inspection image data with corresponding copy image data and inspects the result of printing to the preprinted forms. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing result inspection apparatus that inspects a printing result on a sheet, and more particularly, to a printing result inspection apparatus that inspects a printing result on a preprint sheet on which a fixed portion is printed in advance.

  When printing a standard document such as an invoice or delivery note, prepare a sheet of paper with a standard part printed in advance (referred to as pre-printed paper). Amount of money) is often printed individually on the preprinted paper. As an apparatus for inspecting the quality of printing results for such preprinted paper, there is an apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-78183 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 1).

  Patent Document 1 discloses the following apparatus. That is, preprint image data indicating the image of the standard part is read and stored in advance. Then, the reading device optically reads the print result of the preprinted paper printed based on the original image data relating to the unique individual information, and obtains inspection image data. Here, the obtained inspection image data includes a preprinted standard portion image image that is not printed based on the document image data. Therefore, by masking the obtained inspection image data using the preprint image data stored in advance, the image image of the preprint image area is substantially invalidated from the inspection image data, and the original image Only the newly printed image is validated based on the data. Then, the quality inspection of the print result is performed using the inspection image data subjected to the mask processing and the corresponding document image data. As a result, it is possible to inspect the quality of the print result for only the newly printed image image based on the document image data.

  However, Patent Document 1 is a technique related to an inspection apparatus that performs quality inspection of a printing result in a printing apparatus that performs continuous printing using one type of preprinted paper, and preprinted paper having a plurality of types of formats. Is not considered in a printing apparatus in which a sheet is selectively taken out from one of the paper trays based on the document image data and sheet-fed printing is performed. Therefore, in the apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, in a printing apparatus that performs sheet-fed printing, a preprint paper that selectively takes out a preprint paper having a plurality of types of formats from one of the paper trays and sequentially prints the preprint paper. It is difficult to sequentially inspect the quality of the printed results.

JP-A-11-78183

  An object of the present invention is to appropriately inspect the quality of print results on preprinted paper even when preprinted paper having a plurality of types of formats is selectively taken out from each paper tray and printed.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus according to the present invention, the preprint image data indicating the preprint image image preliminarily printed on the preprint paper is stored in association with the paper tray storing the preprint paper. And inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result in order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus Inspection image data acquisition means for acquiring, preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage means, Using the acquired preprint image data, the preprint image image area of the inspection image data A mask processing means for performing the mask processing, and an inspection means for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data with the corresponding document image data. And

  According to the present invention, the preprint image data acquisition unit acquires the preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data to be inspected from the storage unit that stores the preprint image data in association with the paper tray storing the preprint paper. Then, using the acquired preprint image data, the mask processing means masks the preprint image area of the inspection image data. Then, the inspection image data masked by the inspection unit is compared with the corresponding original image data, thereby inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper. Accordingly, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted papers having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate paper trays, and one of the paper trays is selectively selected. The preprinted paper of a predetermined format is taken out from the printer, and the quality inspection of the print results on the preprinted paper can be sequentially performed while sequentially printing based on the original image data.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus according to the present invention, the preprint image data indicating the preprint image image preliminarily printed on the preprint paper is stored in association with the paper tray storing the preprint paper. And inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result in order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus Inspection image data acquisition means for acquiring, preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage means, Combining the acquired preprint image data and the original image data to create composite image data And an inspection unit that inspects the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the created composite image data and the inspection image data acquired by the corresponding inspection image data acquisition unit. Features.

  According to the present invention, the preprint image data acquisition unit acquires the preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data to be inspected from the storage unit that stores the preprint image data in association with the paper tray storing the preprint paper. Then, the synthesizing unit synthesizes the acquired preprint image data and document image data to create synthesized image data. Then, the inspection unit compares the created composite image data with the inspection image data acquired by the corresponding inspection image data acquisition unit, thereby inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper. Accordingly, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted papers having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate paper trays, and one of the paper trays is selectively selected. The preprinted paper of a predetermined format is taken out from the printer, and the quality inspection of the print results on the preprinted paper can be sequentially performed while sequentially printing based on the original image data. Furthermore, for example, even when the image indicated by the preprint image data and the image indicated by the document image data overlap on the print surface, the quality inspection of the print result can be appropriately performed.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus according to the present invention, the preprint image data indicating the preprint image image preliminarily printed on the preprint paper is stored in association with the paper tray storing the preprint paper. And inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result in order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus Inspection image data acquisition means for acquiring, preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage means, Using document image data corresponding to the preprinted paper to be inspected, corresponding to the document image data By comparing the mask processing means for performing mask processing of the non-preprint image image area of the inspection image data, the inspection image data subjected to mask processing and the preprint image data acquired by the corresponding preprint image data acquisition means, Inspection means for inspecting the printing result of the preprinted paper.

  According to the present invention, the preprint image data acquisition unit acquires the preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data to be inspected from the storage unit that stores the preprint image data in association with the paper tray storing the preprint paper. Then, the mask processing means performs mask processing of the non-preprint image area of the inspection image data corresponding to the document image data using the document image data corresponding to the inspection target preprint paper. Then, the inspection unit inspects the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data with the preprint image data acquired by the corresponding preprint image data acquisition unit. Accordingly, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted papers having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate paper trays, and one of the paper trays is selectively selected. The preprinted paper of a predetermined format is taken out from the printer, and the quality inspection of the print results on the preprinted paper can be sequentially performed while sequentially printing based on the original image data.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus according to the present invention, the preprint image data indicating the preprint image image preprinted on the preprint paper including the non-contact IC tag is stored in association with the preprint identification information. And a storage means for performing the inspection of the print result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the print result is placed near the paper transport path of the image forming apparatus. Inspection image data acquisition means for acquiring inspection image data obtained by reading by an arranged reading device; and in the vicinity of the reading device and in the vicinity of a sheet conveyance path on the upstream side in the sheet traveling direction. Preprinting of preprinted paper from non-contact IC tag of preprinted paper that has been printed based on document image data by the forming device Identification information acquisition means for acquiring different information, preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with the acquired preprint identification information from the storage means, the inspection image data, and the original image data, Inspection means for inspecting the printing result of the preprinted paper using the preprinted image data.

  According to the present invention, the identification information acquisition unit acquires the preprint identification information corresponding to the preprint paper from the non-contact IC tag of the preprint paper that has been printed based on the document image data by the image forming apparatus, Preprint image data is acquired from the storage means based on the preprint identification information. Then, the inspection unit inspects the print result of the preprinted paper using the inspection image data, the document image data, and the preprint image data. This ensures that the preprint image data corresponding to the preprinted paper to be inspected is appropriate even if the preprinted paper is disturbed due to paper jams on the transport path. It is possible to reduce the processing load by inspecting the printing result on the preprinted paper.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus according to the present invention, the inspection unit uses the preprint image data acquired by the preprint image data acquisition unit, and uses the preprint image image area of the inspection image data. A mask processing means for performing mask processing is included, and the inspection result of the preprinted paper is inspected by comparing the inspection image data subjected to the mask processing with the corresponding original image data.

  According to the present invention, the preprint image data acquired by the mask processing means is used to mask the preprint image area of the inspection image data, and the inspection means performs the masked inspection image data and the corresponding document. The print result of the preprinted paper is inspected by comparing with the image data. Thereby, when associating the inspection image data to be inspected with the preprint image data, it is not necessary to consider the transition of the transport path of the preprint paper in the image forming apparatus, and the processing can be reduced.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus according to the present invention, the inspection unit uses original image data corresponding to the preprinted paper to be inspected, and uses non-preprinted inspection image data corresponding to the original image data. A mask processing unit that performs mask processing of the print image image region, and compares the masked inspection image data with the preprint image data acquired by the corresponding preprint image data acquisition unit, thereby It is characterized by inspecting the print result.

  According to the present invention, the mask processing means performs mask processing on the non-preprint image area of the inspection image data corresponding to the original image data using the original image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected, and The means compares the masked inspection image data with the preprint image data acquired by the corresponding preprint image data acquisition means, thereby inspecting the print result of the preprint paper. Thereby, when associating the inspection image data to be inspected with the preprint image data, it is not necessary to consider the transition of the transport path of the preprint paper in the image forming apparatus, and the processing can be reduced.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus for inspecting the printing result for the preprinted paper having the non-contact IC tag according to the present invention, the printing result is selected based on the tray selection signal in order to perform printing based on the document image data. Tray identification information writing means is provided for writing, as preprint identification information, tray identification information corresponding to the tray selection signal to the non-contact IC tag of the preprint paper when the preprint paper is taken out from the paper tray. It is characterized by.

  According to the present invention, when the preprinted paper is taken out from the paper tray, the tray identification information writing unit uses the tray identification information corresponding to the tray selection signal as the preprint identification information, and does not contact the preprinted paper. Write to IC tag. Then, based on the tray identification information acquired from the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper to be inspected, the preprint image data acquisition unit acquires the preprint image data from the storage unit. Thus, for example, if preprint paper is stored in each paper tray for each preprint type and the preprint image data is stored in advance in the storage means in association with the tray identification information of the paper tray, There is no need to write preprint identification information in the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper in advance before storing the paper in the paper tray. In addition, pre-print image data of pre-printed paper based on tray identification information corresponding to a tray selection signal used when selecting a paper tray during normal printing without preparing separate identification information as pre-print identification information Can be specified.

  According to one aspect of the printing result inspection apparatus for inspecting the printing result on the preprinted paper having the non-contact IC tag according to the present invention, the printing result inspection apparatus is arranged in the vicinity of the reading apparatus and in the vicinity of the sheet conveyance path on the downstream side in the sheet traveling direction. It is provided with an inspection result writing means for writing an inspection result performed by the inspection means to a non-contact tag of the corresponding preprinted paper.

  According to the present invention, the inspection result written by the inspection unit by the inspection result writing unit disposed in the vicinity of the reading device and in the vicinity of the sheet conveyance path on the downstream side in the sheet traveling direction is displayed on the corresponding preprinted paper. Write to contactless tags. This eliminates the need to consider the transition of the transport path of the preprint paper in the image forming apparatus when associating the preprint paper to be ejected with the inspection result for the preprint paper, thereby reducing processing. it can.

  A first embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as a first embodiment) will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. Here, the image forming apparatus 1 refers to an apparatus having an image forming function, such as a printer, a copying machine, a facsimile machine, or a digital multi-function peripheral having at least a printing function. Further, the sheet printed by the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is a sheet composed of a fixed image image portion and an individual image image portion used for, for example, a receipt or a delivery note, and the fixed image image portion is preliminarily stored. Printed preprinted paper. FIG. 2 shows an example of a receipt as an example of preprinted paper.

  Furthermore, the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of sheet trays that separately store a plurality of types of preprinted sheets having different formats of the regular image portion. Then, the image forming apparatus sequentially takes out the preprinted paper from the paper tray specified based on the tray selection signal, and stores specific individual information (for example, an invoice destination and amount) as an individual image image portion based on the original image data. Print. The tray selection signal and the document image data are provided from, for example, an external controller connected to the image forming apparatus. The external controller provides a tray selection signal indicating a paper tray designated by the user to the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the external controller creates document image data by converting document data indicating individual information provided from a host computer connected to the external controller into, for example, bitmap data or PDL that can be recognized by the image forming apparatus. The original image data is provided to the image forming apparatus.

  Next, the image forming apparatus will be further described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG. The image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment includes a print processing unit 10 that performs a printing process on preprinted paper, an image reading unit 20 that reads a print result of the preprinted paper, and an inspection image obtained by reading the image reading unit 20. And an inspection unit 30 that inspects the quality of the printing result for the preprinted paper based on the data.

  Furthermore, the internal configuration of the print processing unit 10 will be described. The I / F 11 is an interface module that captures document image data and a tray selection signal associated therewith from an external controller or the like. The control unit 12 is a module that controls the entire image forming apparatus. As specific control, for example, the control unit 12 specifies a paper tray 13 for storing preprinted paper used for printing based on a tray selection signal fetched from the I / F 11, and from the specified paper tray 13. The preprinted paper is taken out one by one, and the printing unit 14 prints individual information based on the original image data.

  Next, the image reading unit 20 will be described. The image reading unit 20 is a mechanism that sequentially reads the printing results of the preprinted paper that has been subjected to the printing process by the print processing unit 10. When the image reading unit 20 reads the printing result of the preprinted paper, inspection image data for performing a quality inspection of the printing result is obtained. Reading is performed, for example, by optically reading the printing state on the paper. Specifically, for example, the reading part on the paper is irradiated with light with an irradiation lamp, the light reflected on the paper is imaged with an imaging lens, and the formed optical image is captured by a CCD camera and converted into image data. This can be achieved.

  Furthermore, the internal configuration of the inspection unit 30 will be described. The preprint image data storage unit 31 is a module that stores preprint image data that is image data of a preliminarily printed image of a fixed portion of the image displayed on the preprint paper.

  Each paper tray of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment stores preprinted paper having a different format of the standard portion, and the preprint image data storage unit 31 has a preprint that exists for each format of the preprinted paper. Image data is stored in association with tray identification information for identifying a paper tray for storing the preprinted paper.

  The mask processing unit 32 is a module that performs mask processing on the inspection image data obtained by reading by the image reading unit 20 with the preprint image data acquired from the preprint image data storage unit 31. More specifically, the mask processing unit 32 acquires inspection image data from the image reading unit 20 and also acquires a tray selection signal corresponding to the preprinted paper to be inspected from the I / F 11. Then, the mask processing unit 32 specifies a paper tray based on the tray selection signal, and acquires preprint image data associated with the tray identification information corresponding to the specified paper tray from the preprint image data storage unit 31. . Subsequently, the mask processing unit 32 performs a mask process on the acquired inspection image data with the acquired preprint image data.

  The mask process is performed as follows, for example. That is, the preprint image data and the inspection image data are configured as binarized data in which the pixel value of the pixel in which the image image exists is 1 and the pixel value of the pixel in which the image image does not exist is 0. Then, a mask process is performed by taking an exclusive OR of the pixel values of each image between the binarized data indicating the preprint image data and the binarized data indicating the inspection image data. Thereby, the preprint image portion is erased from the image image indicated by the inspection image data. The masked inspection image data is temporarily held in the masked inspection image data holding unit 33.

  In the masked inspection image data, only the newly printed image image portion based on the original image data remains, and when the print result is good, the masked inspection image data and the inspection image data correspond to the masked inspection image data. It matches the original image data. Therefore, by checking the degree of coincidence, it is possible to inspect the quality of the print result of the preprinted paper printed based on the document image data.

  FIG. 4 shows an image diagram of inspection image data and preprint image data, and mask-processed inspection image data obtained by masking the inspection image data with the preprint image data.

  The collating unit 35 is a module that inspects the quality of the print result for preprinted paper printed based on the document image data. Then, the collation unit 35 retrieves the original image data fetched from the I / F 11 and held in the original image data holding unit 34, and collates the original image data with the masked inspection image data provided from the mask processing unit 32. As a result, the quality inspection of the printing result for the preprinted paper is performed.

  Specifically, for example, the collation unit 35 takes a difference in the total number of pixels between the masked inspection image data that is binarized data and the document image data, and if the difference is greater than or equal to a reference value, Since the masked inspection image data does not match the original image data, it is determined that the quality is poor.

  Further, it may be determined whether or not the quality is poor from the overlapping rate of the document image data and the masked inspection image data. For example, the overlap rate is obtained by determining whether or not the values of the respective pixels constituting the document image data and the masked inspection image data match, and the number of matching pixels with respect to the total number of pixels (number of matching pixels / total number of pixels). Can be calculated by obtaining. When the overlap rate is equal to or less than the reference value, the collating unit 35 determines that the masked inspection image data and the document image data do not match and determines that the quality is poor.

  According to this embodiment, preprint image data of each preprint paper is stored in the preprint image data storage unit 31 in advance in association with the tray identification information of each paper tray. Each time printing is performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray based on the original image data, the mask processing unit 32 takes in the tray selection information from the I / F 11, and the mask processing unit 32 takes in the selected tray selection. A paper tray is specified based on the signal, and preprint image data associated with tray identification information corresponding to the specified paper tray is acquired from the preprint image data storage unit 31. Then, using the acquired preprint image data, the mask processing unit 32 performs a mask process on the inspection image data corresponding to the preprint paper. Further, the collation unit 35 collates the original image data held in the original image data holding unit 34 with the masked inspection image data held in the masked inspection image data holding unit 33, so that the preprinted paper is obtained. Perform a quality inspection of the print results for.

  Accordingly, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted papers having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate paper trays, and selectively based on a tray selection signal. A preprinted paper of a predetermined format can be taken out from any one of the paper trays, and the quality inspection of the print results on the preprinted paper can be sequentially performed while sequentially printing based on the document image data.

  Subsequently, a second embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as a second embodiment) will be described with reference to the drawings. Since the system configuration in the second embodiment may be the same as that in the first embodiment, it is as shown in FIG. 1, and a block diagram of the second embodiment is shown in FIG.

  The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that a synthesis unit 36, a synthesized image data holding unit 37, and a collation unit 38 are included.

  The combining unit 36 is a module that combines the original image data and the preprint image data to create combined image data. More specifically, the synthesizing unit 36 acquires document image data to be inspected held in the document image data holding unit. Further, a paper tray is specified based on the tray selection signal fetched from the I / F 11, and preprint image data associated with the tray identification information corresponding to the specified paper tray is acquired from the preprint image data storage unit 31. Then, the synthesizing unit 36 synthesizes the acquired document image data and preprint image data. For example, the composition is performed by taking the logical sum of the pixel values of each pixel between the binarized data indicating the document image data and the binarized data indicating the preprint image data. FIG. 6 is an image diagram of the original image data and the preprint image data, and the composite image data created by combining the original image data and the preprint image data.

  The composite image data created in this way matches the inspection image data obtained by reading the preprinted paper that has been printed by the image reading unit 20 if the printing result is good. Therefore, by inspecting the degree of coincidence, it is possible to inspect the quality of the print result for the preprinted paper printed based on the document image data.

  The collation unit 38 is a module that performs a quality inspection of the print result on the preprinted paper by collating the composite image data and the inspection image data. The comparison between the composite image data and the inspection image data is performed by obtaining the total number of pixels and the overlapping rate, for example, as in the first embodiment.

  According to the second embodiment, the preprint image data storage unit 31 stores the preprint image data of each preprint paper in advance in association with the tray identification information of each paper tray. Then, each time the printing based on the document image data is performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray, the synthesizing unit 36 takes in the tray selection signal corresponding to the preprinted paper to be inspected from the I / F 11. Subsequently, the combining unit 36 specifies a paper tray based on the received tray selection signal, and acquires preprint image data associated with the tray identification information corresponding to the specified paper tray from the preprint image data storage unit 31. To do. Further, the synthesizing unit 36 synthesizes the acquired preprint image data and the original image data corresponding to the preprinted paper to create composite image data. The collation unit 38 collates the inspection image data provided from the image reading unit 20 with the composite image data held in the composite image data holding unit 37 by the synthesizing unit 36, thereby checking the quality of the print result for the preprinted paper. I do.

  Thus, as in the first embodiment, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted papers having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate paper trays, and an original image While selectively printing out preprinted papers of a predetermined format from any one of the paper trays based on the data and sequentially printing them, it is possible to sequentially inspect the quality of the printed results on those preprinted papers.

  In the case where an individual image image indicating individual information is printed on the preprint image on the preprint paper, the individual image image in which the preprint image image and the printing surface overlap is erased by mask processing in the first embodiment. Therefore, there is a case where the quality inspection of the printing result cannot be performed properly. On the other hand, according to the second embodiment, since the preprint image data and the original image data that is the basis of the individual image image are combined, this is not the case.

  Subsequently, a third embodiment (hereinafter referred to as a third embodiment) of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  Since the system configuration in the third embodiment may be the same as that in the first and second embodiments, it is as shown in FIG. 1, and a block diagram of the third embodiment is shown in FIG. In the third embodiment, the mask processing unit 39 and the collation unit 40 are different from the other embodiments.

  In FIG. 7, a mask processing unit 39 is a module that masks inspection image data obtained by reading by the image reading unit 20 with document image data corresponding to the inspection image data. More specifically, the mask processing unit 39 acquires the inspection image data from the image reading unit 20, and the inspection target document image data captured from the I / F 11 and held in the document image data holding unit 34. 39 is acquired. The mask processing unit 39 masks the inspection image data with the original image data corresponding to the inspection image data. FIG. 8 is an image diagram of inspection image data and original image data, and further, masked inspection image data obtained by masking inspection image data with original image data.

  Thereby, the original image portion is erased from the image indicated by the inspection image data. That is, the image image portion newly printed based on the document image data is deleted from the inspection image data by the mask process, and only the preprint image image portion remains as image data. Therefore, when the print result is good, the inspection image data subjected to the mask process and the preprint image data match, and thus the quality of the print result by printing based on the document image data is checked by checking the degree of match. be able to.

  The collation unit 40 collates the inspection image data that has been subjected to mask processing and the preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data, thereby performing a quality inspection of the print result on the preprint paper. The collation unit 40 identifies a paper tray based on the tray selection signal fetched from the I / F 11 and acquires preprint image data associated with the identified tray identification information from the preprint image data storage unit 31. , Collation with the masked inspection image data. The collation is performed by obtaining, for example, the total number of pixels and the overlapping rate as in the first and second embodiments.

  According to the third embodiment, preprint image data of each preprint paper is stored in the preprint image data storage unit 31 in advance in association with the identification information of each paper tray. Each time printing based on the original image data is performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray, the mask processing unit 32 uses the original image data held in the original image data holding unit 34 to check the inspection target. Mask the inspection image data corresponding to the preprinted paper. Further, the collation unit 40 takes in a tray selection signal corresponding to the preprinted paper from the I / F 11. Subsequently, the collation unit 40 identifies the paper tray based on the tray selection signal, acquires the preprint image data associated with the tray identification information corresponding to the paper tray from the preprint image data storage unit 31, and By collating the acquired preprint image data with the masked inspection image data provided from the mask processing unit 39, the quality of the print result on the preprint paper is inspected.

  Accordingly, as in the first and second embodiments, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted papers having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate paper trays, While selectively printing out preprinted paper of a predetermined format from any one of the paper trays based on the original image data and sequentially printing it, it is possible to sequentially inspect the quality of the print results on those preprinted paper.

  Further, in the first to third embodiments, the image forming apparatus includes a normal tray that stores paper that has been normally printed out of preprinted paper that has been printed, and an abnormal tray that stores paper that has not been normally completed. When the preprinted paper that has been printed is judged to be of poor quality by the collating unit, the control unit 12 switches the paper transport path from the normal tray to the abnormal tray and discharges the paper, thereby causing Print paper can be easily eliminated. Further, when it is determined that the quality is poor, the control unit 12 can notify the user of the quality defect if the control unit 12 displays the fact on a display or the like provided in the image forming apparatus.

  Subsequently, a fourth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as a fourth embodiment) of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In the fourth embodiment, preprinted paper in which a non-contact IC tag is embedded is used, and preprint image data corresponding to inspection image data to be inspected is obtained based on tray identification information written on the non-contact IC tag. This is different from the first to third embodiments in which the identification is performed based on the tray identification information and the transition of the transport path of the preprinted paper, and is otherwise common to the first embodiment.

  Here, the non-contact IC tag refers to an IC tag that can read data written in a memory constituting the circuit without directly contacting the circuit incorporated in the tag. In this embodiment, for example, an RFID can be used as the non-contact IC tag. The RFID includes an integrated circuit chip (IC chip) and a non-contact communication antenna (antenna using a conductive material), and reads data stored in the integrated circuit chip via the non-contact communication antenna. Data can be written to the integrated circuit chip via the non-contact communication antenna. However, in the fourth embodiment, the non-contact IC tag is not necessarily limited to the RFID using the high frequency.

  Next, Embodiment 4 will be described in detail based on the block diagram shown in FIG. Since the system configuration in the fourth embodiment may be the same as that in the first to third embodiments, it is as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 9, a tray identification information writing unit 50 is a mechanism for writing tray identification information corresponding to the paper tray 13 to the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper carried out from the paper tray 13. In the fourth embodiment, the tray identification information writing unit 50 is provided for each paper tray. For example, as shown in the schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus in FIG. It is disposed on the paper transport path 15. Each tray identification information writing unit 50 determines whether or not to perform processing for writing to the non-contact IC tag based on a tray selection signal fetched from the external controller or the like via the I / F 11. As a result of the determination, when the writing process is performed by itself, when the preprinted paper is taken out from the paper tray, the tray identification information corresponding to the paper tray is written in the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper. .

  Specifically, the tray identification information writing unit 50 includes a control unit and a radio wave interface, and the radio wave interface includes a transmitter and a receiver. Then, under the control of the control unit, the tray identification information is written to the non-contact IC tag via the radio wave interface. Note that the arrangement location of the tray identification information writing unit 50 is not limited to the above position, and may be arranged, for example, in the vicinity of the conveyance path 51 immediately after the preprinted sheets taken out from the respective paper trays merge. .

  Further, for example, as shown in the schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 10, the tray identification information reading unit 41 is disposed near the conveyance path immediately before the image reading unit 20 reads the preprinted paper, and the preprinted paper to be inspected. This is a mechanism for reading the tray identification information written in the non-contact IC tag embedded in. The tray identification information reading unit 41 includes a control unit and a radio wave interface, like the tray identification information writing unit 50. Based on the tray identification information read by the tray identification information reading unit 41, the mask processing unit 39 extracts the preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data to be inspected from the preprint image data storage unit 31, and extracts the preprint image data. Mask processing of the preprint image area of the inspection image data is performed using the preprint image data.

  Using the inspection image data masked by the mask processing unit 32, the collation unit 35 performs collation with the original image data held in the original image data holding unit 34 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Inspect the quality of the print results on the print paper.

  According to the fourth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects obtained in the first to third embodiments.

  That is, when considering the transition of the transport path of the preprinted paper as in the first to third embodiments, the transport transition of the preprinted paper is disturbed due to a paper jam on the transport path. In this case, the preprint image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected cannot be appropriately specified.

  However, according to the fourth embodiment, the mask processing unit 32 performs pre-processing based on the timing for acquiring the inspection image data read by the image reading unit 20 and the tray identification information obtained by the tray identification information reading unit 41 reading. Since the time lag with respect to the timing for acquiring the preprint image data from the print image data storage unit 31 is small, the inspection image data and the preprint are not considered without considering the transition of the transport path of the preprint paper as in the first to third embodiments. Correspondence with image data can be performed accurately. Therefore, even if the preprint paper is disturbed due to paper jams on the transport path, the preprint image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected is properly Can be identified.

  Here, description of each part shown in FIG. 9 is further continued. The inspection result writing unit 42 is a mechanism for writing the inspection result obtained as a result of the collation in the collation unit 35 to the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper to be inspected, and is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the image reading unit 20 is disposed in the vicinity of the conveyance path at a predetermined distance on the downstream side with respect to the paper traveling direction from the position where the image reading unit 20 reads the preprinted paper. Here, the predetermined distance indicates a distance that the preprint paper moves on the conveyance path after the image reading unit 20 reads the preprint paper and before the inspection result in the collating unit 35 is obtained. . The inspection result writing unit 42 includes a control unit and a radio wave interface, like the tray identification information writing unit 50 and the tray identification information reading unit 41.

  As shown in the schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 10, the inspection result reading unit 16 is disposed near the conveyance path immediately before post-processing is performed on the printed preprinted paper, and the inspection result writing unit 42. In this mechanism, the inspection result written in the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper to be inspected is read. The inspection result reading unit 16 includes a control unit and a radio wave interface, like the tray identification information writing unit 50 and the tray identification information reading unit 41.

  Then, the control unit 12 performs post-processing as shown below based on the inspection result read by the inspection result reading unit 16, for example.

  That is, the image forming apparatus is provided with a normal tray for storing normally completed printing of preprinted paper and an abnormal tray for storing normally uncompleted paper. To switch the output tray of the preprinted paper that has been printed. In other words, the control unit 12 takes in the inspection result read by the inspection result reading unit 16, and when the inspection result is normal, the preprinted paper that has been printed is discharged to the normal tray, and conversely, the inspection result is abnormal. In this case, the transport path of the preprinted paper is controlled so that the preprinted paper that has been printed is discharged to the abnormal tray. This makes it possible to easily eliminate poor quality preprinted paper. In addition, when the acquired inspection result is abnormal, the control unit 12 can notify the user of a quality defect if the control unit 12 displays that fact on a display or the like provided in the image forming apparatus.

  As described above, by performing post-processing based on the inspection result written on the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper, according to the fourth embodiment, even if the transport transition of the preprinted paper is disturbed. In addition, it is possible to appropriately specify the inspection result for the preprinted paper that is the target for the post-treatment, and it is possible to reliably perform the appropriate post-processing according to the inspection result.

  Furthermore, since the inspection result is written on the non-contact IC tag included in the preprinted paper, the data written on the non-contact IC tag can be read out even after post-processing such as stapler or bookbinding. Inspection results for preprinted paper can be easily confirmed.

  As described above, in the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of sheet trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted sheets having a plurality of types of formats are stored in separate sheet trays. The pre-printed paper of a predetermined format is selectively taken out from any one of the paper trays based on the tray selection signal, and the print results are inspected for quality while sequentially printing based on the original image data. Can be done sequentially.

  Further, in the fourth embodiment, the inspection image data to be inspected is associated with the preprint image data based on the tray identification information and the inspection result written in the non-contact IC tag directly embedded in the preprint paper to be inspected. Or the preprinted paper to be ejected and the inspection result of the preprinted paper can be associated with each other. There is no need to consider. Therefore, even if the preprint paper is disturbed due to paper jams on the transport path, the preprint image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected is properly Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load by inspecting the printing result on the preprinted paper.

  Subsequently, a fifth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as a fifth embodiment) of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  Embodiment 5 is different from Embodiments 1 to 3 in which preprint image data corresponding to inspection image data to be inspected is specified based on tray identification information included in the tray selection signal and transition of the transport path of the preprint paper. In contrast, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 11, the preprinted paper in which the non-contact IC tag is embedded is used, and the collation unit 40 is inspected based on the tray identification information written in the non-contact IC tag. The preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data is specified. In other respects, the fifth embodiment is common to the third embodiment.

  In the fifth embodiment, after the inspection image data is masked using the original image data, the tray identification read by the collation unit 40 from the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper to be inspected by the tray identification information reading unit 41. Based on the information, preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data is acquired from the preprint image data storage unit 31. Accordingly, it is possible to specify preprint image data corresponding to the inspection image data to be inspected without considering the transition of the transport path of the preprint paper.

  According to the fifth embodiment, as in the third embodiment, for example, in an image forming apparatus that includes a plurality of paper trays and performs sheet-fed printing, preprinted paper having a plurality of types of formats is stored in separate paper trays. The pre-printed paper of a predetermined format is selectively taken out from any one of the paper trays based on the tray selection signal, and the print results are inspected for quality while sequentially printing based on the original image data. Can be done sequentially.

  Further, according to the fifth embodiment, as in the fourth embodiment, the inspection image data to be inspected based on the tray identification information and the inspection result written in the non-contact IC tag directly embedded in the preprinted paper to be inspected. Can be associated with the preprint image data, or the preprint paper to be ejected and the inspection result of the preprint paper can be associated with each other. When associating with image data or associating a preprint paper to be ejected with an inspection result of the preprint paper, it is not necessary to consider the transition of the transport path of the preprint paper. Therefore, even if the preprint paper is disturbed due to paper jams on the transport path, the preprint image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected is properly Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load by inspecting the printing result on the preprinted paper.

  In the fourth and fifth embodiments, the tray identification information is written in the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper after taking out from the paper tray. However, if the paper tray to be stored is determined in advance, the paper tray The tray identification information corresponding to the paper tray stored in advance may be written in the non-contact IC tag of the preprinted paper before being stored in the printer.

  In the fourth and fifth embodiments, each preprint image data is stored in the preprint image data storage unit 31 in association with the tray identification information, and is based on the tray identification information written in the non-contact IC tag of the preprint paper. Thus, an example has been described in which preprint image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected is specified. However, it is not always necessary to specify the preprint image data based on the tray identification information. That is, in the fourth and fifth embodiments, it is only necessary to specify preprint image data corresponding to printed preprint paper. Therefore, preprint image data may be specified as follows. That is, each preprint image data is stored in the preprint image data storage unit 31 in association with the preprint identification information. In addition, when the preprint paper is taken out from the paper tray in advance, preprint identification information corresponding to the preprint paper is written in the non-contact IC tag of the preprint paper. Then, the preprint image data is specified by appropriately reading the preprint identification information from the non-contact IC tag of the preprint paper. In this way, the preprint image corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected can also be written by writing the preprint identification information corresponding to the preprint paper itself, not the tray identification information corresponding to the paper tray to be taken out, to the non-contact IC tag. Data can be identified. When preprint identification information is written when taking out from the paper tray, the preprint identification information may be specified in advance by associating the preprint identification information with document image data input from an external controller or the like.

  In the first to sixth embodiments, the preprint image data may be registered in the preprint image data storage unit 31 as follows, for example.

  That is, before starting the printing process, the user stores preprinted papers having different formats in the respective paper trays. For example, the user starts registration of preprint image data by pressing a button displayed on an operation display provided in the image forming apparatus. Upon receiving the preprint image data registration instruction, the image forming apparatus takes out one preprint paper from each paper tray, and causes the image reading unit 20 to read the preprint paper before printing the individual information. The image forming apparatus registers the preprint image data obtained by reading by the image reading unit 20 in the preprint image data storage unit 31 in association with the tray identification information.

  As another method, preprint image data may be registered in the preprint image data storage unit 31 as follows. That is, preprint image data groups of various formats created in advance are stored in a storage medium. Then, the user stores preprinted papers having different formats in the respective paper trays. Subsequently, the preprint image data group stored in the storage medium is read into the image forming apparatus, and the user selects the preprint image data stored in each paper tray from the preprint image data group displayed on the display. Select every. The image forming apparatus registers the selected preprint image data in the preprint image data storage unit 31 in association with the tray identification information. When the preprint image data stored in the storage medium is not in a data format that can be recognized by the image forming apparatus, the preprint image data is converted into a format that can be recognized by the image forming apparatus, for example, PDL, and then registered in the preprint image data storage unit 31.

1 is a system configuration diagram of image forming apparatuses according to Embodiments 1, 2, and 3. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a preprint paper. 2 is a functional block diagram of the image forming apparatus in Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is an image diagram of inspection image data and preprint image data according to the first embodiment, and mask-processed inspection image data obtained by masking the inspection image data with the preprint image data. 6 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus in Embodiment 2. FIG. FIG. 3 is an image diagram of original image data and preprint image data according to the first embodiment, and combined image data created by combining the original image data and the preprint image data. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment. FIG. 10 is an image diagram of inspection image data and document image data according to the third embodiment, and masked inspection image data obtained by masking inspection image data with document image data. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. 6 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 4 or 5. FIG. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus in Embodiment 5.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus, 10 Print processing part, 11 I / F, 12 Control part, 13 Paper tray, 14 Printing part, 20 Image reading part, 30 Inspection part, 31 Preprint image data storage part, 32 Mask processing part, 33 Inspection image data holding unit, 34 Document image data holding unit, 35 Verification unit, 36 Compositing unit, 37 Composite image data storage unit, 38 Verification unit, 39 Mask processing unit, 40 Verification unit, 41 Tray identification information reading unit, 42 Inspection Result writing unit, 50 tray identification information writing unit.

Claims (17)

Storage means for storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image preliminarily printed on preprint paper in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition means;
Preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage means;
Using the acquired preprint image data, a mask processing means for performing mask processing of the preprint image area of the inspection image data;
Inspection means for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the corresponding document image data;
A printing result inspection apparatus comprising: Storage means for storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image preliminarily printed on preprint paper in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition means;
Preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage means;
A combining unit that combines the acquired preprint image data and the document image data to generate combined image data;
An inspection unit that inspects the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the created composite image data and the inspection image data acquired by the corresponding inspection image data acquisition unit,
A printing result inspection apparatus comprising: Storage means for storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image preliminarily printed on preprint paper in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition means;
Preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage means;
Mask processing means for masking a non-preprint image area of inspection image data corresponding to the document image data using document image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected;
Inspection means for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the preprint image data acquired by the corresponding preprint image data acquisition means,
A printing result inspection apparatus comprising: Storage means for storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image preprinted on preprint paper having a non-contact IC tag in association with preprint identification information;
In order to inspect the print result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the print result is read in the vicinity of the paper conveyance path of the image forming apparatus. Inspection image data acquisition means for acquiring inspection image data obtained by reading by the apparatus;
Preprinted from a non-contact IC tag of preprinted paper that is disposed in the vicinity of the reading device and in the vicinity of the paper conveyance path on the upstream side in the paper traveling direction and has been printed based on the original image data by the image forming device. Identification information acquisition means for acquiring paper preprint identification information;
Preprint image data acquisition means for acquiring preprint image data associated with the acquired preprint identification information from the storage means;
Using the inspection image data, the original image data, and the preprint image data, an inspection unit that inspects the print result of the preprinted paper;
A printing result inspection apparatus comprising: In the printing result inspection apparatus according to claim 4,
The inspection means includes
Using preprint image data acquired by the preprint image data acquisition means, including mask processing means for performing mask processing of a preprint image image area of the inspection image data;
A printing result inspection apparatus that performs inspection of a printing result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the corresponding document image data. In the printing result inspection apparatus according to claim 4,
The inspection means includes
Mask processing means for masking a non-preprint image area of inspection image data corresponding to the document image data using document image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected;
A printing result inspection apparatus for inspecting the printing result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the preprinting image data acquired by the corresponding preprinting image data acquisition means. . The printing result inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, further comprising:
When preprinted paper is taken out from a paper tray selected based on a tray selection signal to perform printing based on the original image data, the tray identification information corresponding to the tray selection signal is used as preprint identification information. A printing result inspection apparatus comprising tray identification information writing means for writing on a non-contact IC tag of preprinted paper. The printing result inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 7, further comprising:
An inspection result writing unit that is disposed in the vicinity of the reading device and in the vicinity of the sheet conveyance path on the downstream side in the sheet traveling direction and writes the inspection result performed by the inspection unit to the non-contact tag of the corresponding preprinted paper. A printing result inspection apparatus comprising:   An image forming apparatus equipped with a plurality of paper trays each storing preprinted paper of a plurality of formats, comprising the printing result inspection apparatus according to claim 1. A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image previously printed on the preprint paper in a storage device in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition process,
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring from the storage device preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data;
Using the acquired preprint image data, a mask processing step of performing mask processing of the preprint image image area of the inspection image data,
An inspection process for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the corresponding document image data;
A printing result inspection method including: A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image previously printed on the preprint paper in a storage device in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition process,
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring from the storage device preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data;
A combining step of combining the acquired preprint image data and the document image data to generate combined image data;
An inspection process for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the created composite image data and the corresponding inspection image data,
A printing result inspection method including: A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image previously printed on the preprint paper in a storage device in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition process,
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring from the storage device preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data;
A mask processing step for masking a non-preprint image area of inspection image data corresponding to the document image data using document image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected;
An inspection process for inspecting the printing result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the corresponding preprinted image data,
A printing result inspection method including: A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image preprinted on a preprint paper including a non-contact IC tag in a storage device in association with the preprint identification information;
In order to inspect the print result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the print result is read in the vicinity of the paper conveyance path of the image forming apparatus. An inspection image data acquisition step of acquiring inspection image data obtained by reading by the apparatus;
Identification information reading means disposed in the vicinity of the reading device and in the vicinity of the paper conveyance path on the upstream side in the paper traveling direction is a non-contact state of preprinted paper on which printing based on document image data is performed by the image forming device. An identification information acquisition step of acquiring preprint identification information of the preprinted paper read from the IC tag;
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring preprint image data associated with the acquired preprint identification information from the storage device;
Using the inspection image data, the document image data, and the preprint image data, an inspection process for inspecting the print result of the preprint paper,
A printing result inspection method including: A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image previously printed on the preprint paper in a storage device in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition step;
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage device;
Using the acquired preprint image data, a mask processing step for performing mask processing of the preprint image image area of the inspection image data;
An inspection step for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the corresponding document image data;
A program that causes a computer to execute. A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image previously printed on the preprint paper in a storage device in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition step;
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage device;
A synthesizing step of synthesizing the acquired preprint image data and the document image data to create composite image data;
An inspection step for inspecting the print result of the preprinted paper by comparing the created composite image data and the inspection image data corresponding thereto,
A program that causes a computer to execute. A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image previously printed on the preprint paper in a storage device in association with a paper tray storing the preprint paper;
In order to inspect the printing result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the inspection image data obtained by reading the printing result by the reading device is acquired. Inspection image data acquisition step;
A preprint image data acquisition step of acquiring preprint image data associated with a paper tray storing preprint paper corresponding to the inspection image data from the storage device;
A mask processing step for masking a non-preprint image area of inspection image data corresponding to the document image data using document image data corresponding to the preprint paper to be inspected;
An inspection step for inspecting the printing result of the preprinted paper by comparing the masked inspection image data and the corresponding preprinted image data,
A program that causes a computer to execute. A storage step of storing preprint image data indicating a preprint image image preprinted on a preprint paper including a non-contact IC tag in a storage device in association with the preprint identification information;
In order to inspect the print result based on the original image data performed on the preprinted paper taken out from the paper tray by the image forming apparatus, the print result is read in the vicinity of the paper conveyance path of the image forming apparatus. An inspection image data acquisition step of acquiring inspection image data obtained by reading by the apparatus;
Identification information reading means disposed in the vicinity of the reading device and in the vicinity of the paper conveyance path on the upstream side in the paper traveling direction is a non-contact state of preprinted paper on which printing based on document image data is performed by the image forming device. An identification information acquisition step of acquiring preprint identification information of the preprinted paper read from the IC tag;
A preprint image data acquisition step for acquiring preprint image data associated with the acquired preprint identification information from the storage device;
Using the inspection image data, the original image data, and the preprint image data, an inspection step of inspecting the print result of the preprint paper,
A program that causes a computer to execute.

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