JP2019155594A - Image forming system and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To allow an inserted paper with a size larger than a size of a printed matter designated in a printing job to be outputted, when a failure is detected in an inspection device.SOLUTION: An image forming system 1 comprises: an image forming device 2 that prints an image based on a printing job on a printing paper and outputs the paper; an inspection device 3 that performs processing for inspecting the printing paper having the image printed thereon; a timing determining part 23 that determines whether or not it is timing for outputting an inspected result by the inspection device 3; and a trimming device 4 that trims the printing paper. The image forming device 2 executes an inspecting job for indicating an inspected result when determining that it is timing for outputting the inspected result. The trimming device 4, when the printing paper printed based on the printing job is outputted, trims the printing paper into a size designated by the printing job and outputs a printed matter, and when the printing paper inspected according to an inspecting job is outputted, trims the printing paper into a size larger than the size of the printed matter and outputs the paper.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system and a program, and more particularly to a technique for inspecting and outputting an image formed on printing paper in an image forming apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming system including an inspection apparatus that inspects printing paper on which an image is formed in an image forming apparatus is known. In such a system, the user reprints an image determined to be defective by the inspection device to create a recovery printed matter, and replaces the defective printed matter on which the defective image is formed with the recovery printed matter. Can do. Here, in order to make it easy for the user to know where the discharged defective printed matter is in the sheet bundle, a means for notifying the user of the position of the defective printed matter is required.

  As a means for notifying the user where the defective printed matter is present in the sheet bundle on the discharge tray, there is known a method of discharging the insertion sheet for indicating the position of the defective printed matter onto the sheet bundle. (For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). Conventionally, in this type of method, the size of the inserted paper is made different from the size of normal printing paper, thereby making it easier for the user to find the inserted paper inserted into the paper bundle. For example, by setting the size of the inserted paper to be larger than the size of the printing paper specified in the print job, when the inserted paper is discharged to the paper bundle on the paper discharge tray, the peripheral portion of the inserted paper is Since it protrudes from the bundle, the position of the defective printed matter can be easily grasped.

  In the above-described prior art, in order to make the size of the insertion sheet larger than the printing sheet used in the print job, an insertion sheet having a size larger than the printing sheet specified in the print job is prepared in advance. There must be. However, when a print job is executed using the maximum size of print paper that can be accommodated in the image forming apparatus, it is not possible to feed a larger insertion paper than that, and the mark is placed on the paper bundle. There is a problem that it is impossible to insert the insertion sheet.

JP 2012-236343 A JP 2010-002463 A

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problem, and when a defect is detected in the inspection apparatus, it is possible to discharge an insertion sheet having a size larger than the size of the printed matter specified in the print job. An object is to provide an image forming system and a program.

  In order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 1 is an image forming system, wherein an image forming unit that executes a print job to form and output an image based on the print job on a print sheet; and Inspection means for inspecting whether there is a defect in the printing paper output from the image forming means, timing determination means for determining whether it is the timing to output the inspection result by the inspection means, and the image formation A cutting unit that cuts the printing paper output from the printing unit, and the image forming unit displays an inspection result when the timing determination unit determines that it is a timing to output the inspection result The cutting unit executes the job, and when the print sheet on which the print job is executed is output from the image forming unit, the cutting unit outputs the print sheet to the print job. Cutting to a specified size and outputting a printed material, and when the printing paper on which the inspection job is executed is output from the image forming unit, the printing paper is cut to be larger than the size of the printed material and output. It is characterized by.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the first aspect, when the cutting unit outputs a printing sheet on which the inspection job has been executed from the image forming unit, the sheet of the printing sheet is output. The size in the conveyance direction is cut larger than the size of the printed matter.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the first or second aspect, when the image forming unit determines that the timing determination unit outputs the inspection result, the print job is performed. The image formation based on the inspection is interrupted, and an image based on the inspection result is formed on the printing paper.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the image forming system according to any one of the first to third aspects further includes a paper feeding unit that feeds printing paper to the image forming unit, and the paper feeding unit includes: It is characterized in that the same printing paper is fed when it is determined by the timing determination means that it is the timing to output the inspection result and when it is determined that it is not the timing to output the inspection result.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the image forming system further includes a paper feeding unit that feeds printing paper to the image forming unit. Further, the present invention is characterized in that different printing paper is fed when it is determined by the timing determination means that it is the timing for outputting the inspection result and when it is determined that it is not the timing for outputting the inspection result.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, when the paper feeding unit determines that the timing determination unit outputs a detection result, The inspection means feeds the printing paper for executing the inspection job after the inspection of the printing paper in the uninspected state is completed.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the image forming unit forms an image in a state where a plurality of images are impositioned on a print sheet based on a print job. The inspection means performs inspection on each of the plurality of images.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the image forming means includes N pieces of paper in the paper transport direction of the print paper based on a print job (where N is N is an integer satisfying N ≧ 1), and image formation is performed in a state where M images (where M is an integer satisfying M ≧ 1) are imposed in a direction orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction of the printing paper. The inspection unit inspects each of the M × N images, and the cutting unit prints the M × N images formed from the image forming unit based on a print job. When a sheet is output, the printing sheet is cut into M × N output sheets and output as a bundle of M output sheets.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the eighth aspect, in the case where the image forming unit determines that the timing determination unit outputs the inspection result, the inspection unit performs the operation. When a defect is detected in at least one of the bundle of M output sheets, the inspection is performed with respect to the same position as the output position of the printed matter in which the defect is detected in the direction orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction of the printing sheet. It is characterized by performing image formation based on the result.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the ninth aspect, the image forming unit is configured to display an image of which a defect has been detected by the inspection unit with respect to a margin portion of the print paper on which the inspection job is executed. It is characterized by performing image formation based on image data.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the ninth aspect, the image forming means forms an image based on a print job on a blank portion of a print sheet on which the inspection job is executed. It is said.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the image forming unit forms an image based on the inspection job on a front end side in a paper transport direction of the printing paper. It is characterized by.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the cutting unit outputs the print sheet on which the inspection job has been executed from the image forming unit. It is characterized in that a printed matter is output after cutting to a size specified in an inspection job.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the timing determination unit is a timing at which an inspection result is output when a defect is detected by the inspection unit. It is characterized by judging.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, the inspection job is such that the image forming unit prints an image based on an inspection result including position information of a defective printed material on a print sheet. It is characterized by being a job to be formed.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the fourteenth aspect, the inspection job is a job in which the image forming unit does not perform image formation.

  According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is a defect in the image forming means that forms and outputs an image based on the print job by executing the print job and the print paper output from the image forming means. A program executed in a computer for controlling an image forming system, comprising: an inspection unit that performs an inspection of whether or not; and a cutting unit that cuts a print sheet output from the image forming apparatus, A timing determination step for determining whether or not it is a timing for outputting the inspection result by the inspection means, and an inspection job for indicating the inspection result when the timing determination means determines that it is the timing for outputting the inspection result An inspection result output step for executing printing, and printing paper on which a print job has been executed is output from the image forming means. The cutting means causes the printing paper to be cut to the size specified in the printing job and output the printed matter, and the printing paper on which the inspection job has been executed is output from the image forming means. In this case, the cutting unit is configured to execute a cutting control step of cutting the printing paper larger than the size of the printed matter and outputting the cut sheet.

  According to the present invention, when a defect is detected in the inspection apparatus, it is possible to discharge an insertion sheet having a size larger than the size of the printed matter specified in the print job. Therefore, for example, even when a print job is executed using a maximum size print sheet that can be accommodated in the image forming system, it is possible to output an insertion sheet having a size larger than the size of the printed matter. is there.

1 is a diagram illustrating a conceptual configuration example of an image forming system. It is a figure which shows an example of a cutting position. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration and a functional configuration of an image forming system. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen displayed on a display part. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement process performed with an image forming apparatus, an inspection apparatus, and a cutting apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of the flow in which a printing paper is conveyed. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed in the image forming system. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of an inspection process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of inspection job execution. (A) It is a figure which shows an example of the printing paper in which several imposition was carried out. (B) It is a figure which shows the image in which the printing paper with which several imposition was carried is conveyed. (A) It is a figure which shows an example of the cutting position and margin part of printing paper. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating an example of imposition setting for printing paper. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed in the image forming system according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of inspection job execution in 2nd Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, members that are common to each other are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a conceptual configuration example of an image forming system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, an image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 2 that forms an image on a printing paper and outputs it, an inspection apparatus 3 that inspects the printing paper on which an image is formed in the image forming apparatus 2, and an inspection apparatus. 3 includes a cutting device 4 that cuts the printed paper that has been inspected in 3 and creates a printed material having a size specified by the print job.

  The image forming apparatus 2 includes an operation panel 10, a paper feeding unit 17, and an image forming unit 18. For example, the image forming apparatus 2 receives a print job setting operation performed on the operation panel 10, and prints a print job designated by the user. Print output based on this. The paper feeding unit 17 can accommodate, for example, a plurality of types of printing paper, and feeds the printing paper designated in the print job one by one toward the image forming unit 18. The image forming unit 18 performs image formation designated by the print job on the printing paper fed from the paper feeding unit 17.

  For example, when the imposition setting is given to the print job, the image forming unit 18 performs image formation based on the imposition setting. The imposition setting is a setting for specifying a position and a range where image formation is performed on a printing paper. For example, when printing a plurality of images on one printing paper, each of the plurality of images is set. Is set to specify the position and range for printing. However, the imposition setting is not necessarily limited to the setting given when printing a plurality of images on one printing paper, but is also given when printing one image on one printing paper. May be. In the present embodiment, an example will be described in which an imposition setting in which a print position and a print range are designated in the case of printing one image on one print sheet is mainly performed.

  When the image forming apparatus 2 forms an image on a print sheet based on the imposition setting of the print job, the image forming apparatus 2 outputs the print sheet to the inspection apparatus 3.

  The inspection device 3 inspects the printing paper on which the image is formed in the image forming device 2. That is, the inspection device 3 determines whether or not the printing paper output from the image forming device 2 includes a defective image that cannot be used as a printed material. The inspection apparatus 3 includes an image reading unit 31 configured with a camera or the like. The inspection device 3 drives the image reading unit 31 when the printing paper output from the image forming device 2 passes the reading position of the image reading unit 31 to acquire an image obtained by photographing the printing paper, Based on this, it is determined whether or not a defective image is included in the printing paper. When a plurality of images are printed on one printing sheet, the inspection device 3 inspects each of the plurality of images. When one image is printed on one printing paper, the inspection apparatus 3 determines whether the one image is a defective image. For example, when the image formed in the image forming apparatus 2 has dirt, color misregistration, or position misalignment, or when the printing paper has wrinkles, the inspection apparatus 3 cannot use the image as a printed matter. Judge as. The printing paper whose image has been inspected by the inspection device 3 is conveyed to the cutting device 4.

  The cutting device 4 is a device that cuts the printing paper conveyed from the inspection device 3 into a size designated by the print job. The cutting device 4 includes a cutting unit 42 and a paper discharge tray 5. The cutting device 4 guides the printing paper conveyed from the inspection device 3 to the cutting unit 42 and cuts the printing paper in the cutting unit 42. Thereafter, the cutting device 4 discharges the printing paper cut to a predetermined size onto the paper discharge tray 5.

  The image forming system 1 configured as described above performs image formation on a plurality of print sheets in a print job, and when it is designated to cut the plurality of print sheets into a predetermined size, The printing paper of the specified size is sequentially conveyed one by one to form an image, and after passing through the inspection process in the inspection device 3, the printing paper on which the image has been formed is cut to a predetermined size in the cutting device 4, and the paper discharge tray 5 is discharged. At this time, the image forming apparatus 2 continuously feeds a plurality of printing sheets from the sheet feeding unit 17. That is, the image forming apparatus 2 forms an image on the next print sheet without waiting for the print sheet on which the image based on the print job is discharged to the discharge tray 5. For this reason, when the printing paper on which the image is formed in the image forming apparatus 2 is conveyed to the inspection apparatus 3, the printing process for the next printing paper is started in the image forming apparatus 2.

  For example, when the inspection apparatus 3 determines that the printing paper output from the image forming apparatus 2 includes a defective image, the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment temporarily suspends the execution of the print job and performs the inspection. Interrupt the inspection job for displaying the result and execute the inspection job. The inspection job is a job that specifies cutting with a size larger than the cutting size specified in the print job. The image forming system 1 can discharge a sheet having a size larger than the size specified in the print job to the discharge tray 5 by executing the inspection job. In other words, when a defective image is detected by the inspection apparatus 3, the image forming system 1 inserts a sheet having a size larger than the size of the printed material as an insertion sheet on the uppermost surface of the sheet bundle placed on the sheet discharge tray 5. It is.

  Note that the timing at which the image forming system 1 executes the inspection job is not limited to the case where the inspection apparatus 3 detects a defective image. This will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, an example will be described in which when the image forming system 1 executes an inspection job, cutting is performed so that the size of the printing paper in the paper transport direction (sub-scanning direction) is larger than the size specified in the print job. . FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams showing a cutting size when cutting the printing paper in the cutting apparatus 4. FIG. 2A shows an example of cutting with a cutting size specified in the print job, and FIG. 2B shows an inspection job. An example of cutting with the cutting size specified in FIG. Note that FIG. 2 illustrates a case where imposition setting is performed in which a print position and a print range are designated so that one image is printed on one print sheet in a print job.

  First, as shown in FIG. 2A, in a print job, the cutting positions A and B in the paper transport direction (sub-scanning direction) of the printing paper and the cutting position C in the direction orthogonal to the paper transport direction (main scanning direction). , D are designated. Such cutting positions A, B, C, and D define the size of the printed material discharged onto the paper discharge tray 5. The cutting device 4 cuts the printing paper at the cutting positions A, B, C, and D designated in the printing job when cutting the printing paper conveyed during the execution of the printing job. Accordingly, printed materials of the size specified by the print job are sequentially stacked on the paper discharge tray 5.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2B, in the inspection job, the cutting positions E and B in the paper transport direction (sub-scanning direction) of the printing paper and the direction (main scanning direction) orthogonal to the paper transport direction. Cutting positions C and D are designated. Here, the cutting positions B, C, and D are the same positions as the cutting positions B, C, and D specified in the print job. On the other hand, the cutting position E is a position different from the cutting position A specified in the print job, and is set such that the interval between the cutting positions E and B is wider than the interval between the cutting positions A and B. It is a position to be done. The cutting positions E, B, C, and D define the size of the insertion sheet that is discharged onto the discharge tray 5. When cutting the printing paper conveyed during the inspection job, the cutting device 4 cuts the printing paper at the cutting positions E, B, C, and D specified in the inspection job. Therefore, the inserted paper cut to a size larger than the size specified in the print job is discharged to the paper discharge tray 5.

  The defective printed matter in which the defective image is detected in the inspection device 3 is cut to a size designated by the print job in the cutting device 4 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “normal size”), and is transferred to the paper discharge tray 5. The paper is ejected. Therefore, the defective printed material and other normal printed materials are cut to the normal size on the paper discharge tray 5, and it is difficult for the user to find the defective printed material from the sheet bundle on the paper discharge tray 5. In view of this, the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment generates and inserts an insertion sheet having a size larger than the printed material generated by the print job in order to indicate where the defective printed material is discharged on the discharge tray 5. Paper is discharged to the tray 5. Accordingly, the user can grasp at a glance the position where the insertion sheet is inserted in the sheet bundle on the sheet discharge tray 5 and can easily perform the operation when performing the replacement later. There is.

  Next, details of the image forming system 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration and a functional configuration of the image forming system 1. The image forming apparatus 2 includes an operation panel 10, a network interface 13, a communication unit 14, a storage unit 15, a printer unit 16, and a control unit 19 as hardware configurations.

  The operation panel 10 includes a display unit 11 and an operation unit 12. The display unit 11 includes, for example, a color liquid crystal display and displays various screens on which a user can perform a print job setting operation and the like. The operation unit 12 includes, for example, touch panel keys arranged on the display screen of the display unit 11 and push button keys arranged around the display screen of the display unit 11 and accepts an operation by the user.

  The network interface 13 is an interface for connecting the image forming apparatus 2 to a network such as a LAN. The image forming apparatus 2 communicates with a server, a personal computer (PC), and the like via the network interface 13. For example, a print job to be executed in the image forming system 1 may be acquired from the outside via the network interface 13.

  The communication unit 14 is a communication unit for communicating with the inspection device 3 and the cutting device 4. The image forming apparatus 2 transmits / receives various information to / from the inspection apparatus 3 and the cutting apparatus 4 via the communication unit 14. For example, the image forming apparatus 2 receives the inspection result 7 from the inspection apparatus 3 via the communication unit 14 or transmits information about the print job to the inspection apparatus 3 and the cutting apparatus 4. The information related to the print job includes imposition information 6 described later, for example.

  The storage unit 15 is a non-volatile storage device configured by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or the like. The storage unit 15 stores various programs and data. For example, the storage unit 15 stores the program 20 executed in the image forming apparatus 2 as shown in FIG. 3, the inspection result 7 transmitted by the inspection apparatus 3, the image data 8 included in the print job, and the inspection job. The inspection job setting 9 applied at the time of execution is stored. The inspection result 7 is information indicating the inspection result for the image formed on the printing paper. The inspection result 7 includes the number of images inspected by the inspection device 3, the number of images determined to be defective images, the order in which defective prints determined to be defective images are discharged to the discharge tray 5, and the like. Information is included. Image data 8 is data of all images included in the print job. By storing the image data 8 in the storage unit 15 at least until the execution of the print job is completed, an image determined to be defective by the inspection device 3 can be reprinted, and a recovery printed matter is created. It becomes possible. Note that the image data 8 may be stored in the storage unit 15 even after the execution of the print job is completed.

  The printer unit 16 is for executing a print job and performing print output, and includes the paper feed unit 17 and the image forming unit 18 described above. The paper feeding unit 17 and the image forming unit 18 are controlled by the job control unit 24 and perform operations synchronized with each other. For example, when a print job is executed in the image forming system 1, the paper feeding unit 17 feeds printing paper having a paper size specified in the print job to the image forming unit 18. The image forming unit 18 forms an image based on the print job on the printing paper fed from the paper feeding unit 17 and then outputs the printing paper to the inspection device 3.

  The control unit 19 controls the image forming system 1 in an integrated manner. That is, the control unit 19 controls not only the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 but also the operations of the inspection device 3 and the cutting device 4 via the communication unit 14. For example, when execution of a print job is instructed by a user, the control unit 19 comprehensively controls execution of the print job in the image forming system 1. When a defective image is detected in the inspection device 3 during the execution of the print job, the control unit 19 temporarily interrupts the execution of the print job, generates an inspection job, and comprehensively executes the inspection job. Control.

  Such a control part 19 is comprised including CPU, memory, etc. which are not shown in figure. The CPU is a hardware processor that executes the program 20. When the CPU reads and executes the program 20, the control unit 19 functions as an inspection result input unit 21, an inspection job setting unit 22, a timing determination unit 23, and a job control unit 24.

  The job control unit 24 functions when, for example, a user instructs execution of a print job, and controls execution of the print job in the image forming system 1. The job control unit 24 generates imposition information 6 corresponding to the imposition setting designated by the user. The imposition information 6 is information specifying a position (imposition position) and a range (imposition size) for image formation on one printing sheet. Further, the imposition information 6 of the print job includes information on the cutting positions A, B, C, and D described above. The job control unit 24 generates such imposition information 6 prior to the start of execution of the print job.

  The job control unit 24 includes an imposition information transmission unit 25. For example, the imposition information transmission unit 25 transmits the imposition information 6 to each of the inspection device 3 and the cutting device 4 via the communication unit 14 prior to the start of execution of a print job. Thereby, the inspection apparatus 3 can perform an inspection process based on the imposition information 6 during execution of the print job. The cutting device 4 can perform a cutting process based on the imposition information 6 during execution of the print job. The imposition information transmission unit 25 may transmit the image data 8 included in the print job to the inspection apparatus 3 in advance when transmitting the imposition information 6 to the inspection apparatus 3.

  When the job control unit 24 starts executing the print job, the job control unit 24 drives the paper feeding unit 17 and the image forming unit 18 in synchronization with each other according to the imposition information 6 for the print paper designated by the print job. An image is formed and output to the inspection device 3. The job control unit 24 causes the inspection apparatus 3 to perform inspection processing and causes the cutting apparatus 4 to perform printing sheet cutting processing.

  The inspection result input unit 21 is a processing unit that inputs the inspection result 7 from the inspection apparatus 3 via the communication unit 14 during execution of the print job. For example, each time the printing paper is conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2, the inspection device 3 inspects the images formed on the printing paper one by one. When one image is formed on one printing paper, the inspection apparatus 3 determines whether the one image is a defective image. When a plurality of images are formed on one sheet of printing paper, the inspection device 3 determines whether each of the plurality of images is a defective image. Then, the inspection device 3 outputs an inspection result 7 to the image forming device 2 every time inspection processing for one print sheet is completed. When the inspection result input unit 21 inputs the inspection result 7 from the inspection device 3, the inspection result input unit 21 notifies the timing determination unit 23 that the inspection result 7 has been input, and stores the inspection result 7 in the storage unit 15. Therefore, the inspection result 7 for each printing paper output from the image forming apparatus 2 is accumulated in the storage unit 15.

  The inspection job setting unit 22 is a processing unit that previously generates an inspection job setting 9 that is referred to when generating an inspection job and stores the inspection job setting 9 in the storage unit 15. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an inspection job setting screen. For example, the user can set an inspection job by displaying an inspection job setting screen on the display unit 11 by performing a predetermined operation on the operation panel 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the inspection job setting screen includes a plurality of setting items 50 to 54 that can be set by the user.

  The first setting item 50 is an item for setting whether or not to create an insertion sheet. When the first setting item 50 is set to OFF by the user, the inspection job is not executed during the execution of the print job, and the insertion sheet is not discharged to the sheet bundle. On the other hand, when the first setting item 50 is set to ON by the user, the inspection job is executed during the execution of the print job, and the inserted sheet is discharged to the sheet bundle on the discharge tray 5. Will be able to. In this way, the user can set in advance whether or not to output the inserted sheet to the sheet bundle on the sheet discharge tray 5.

  The second setting item 51 is an item for setting an insertion timing for inserting an insertion sheet. In the example of FIG. 4, a case where the insertion timing is set to “when a defect is detected” (when the inspection apparatus 3 detects a defective image) is illustrated. If the insertion timing is set to “when a defect is detected” in this way, the execution of the print job is temporarily interrupted when a defective image is detected during the execution of the print job, and instead of the print job. The inspection job is interrupted. Then, the insertion sheet is discharged onto the sheet bundle.

  However, the insertion timing that can be set by the user is not limited to this. That is, the user can select a desired insertion timing from a plurality of insertion timings. For example, an insertion sheet may be inserted every time the image forming apparatus 2 prints out 100 sheets. In such a setting, the insertion sheet may not be inserted when a defective image is not included in the 100 printing sheets.

  The third setting item 52 is an item for setting a size when the insertion sheet is discharged onto the discharge tray 5. In the third setting item, it is possible to set how much the size when the insertion sheet is discharged onto the discharge tray 5 is larger than the normal size specified in the print job. FIG. 4 illustrates a setting in which the size of the insertion sheet in the sub-scanning direction (paper conveyance direction) is set to 10 mm larger than the normal size. As described above, by setting the size of the insertion sheet larger than the size of the printed material in the third setting item 52, when the insertion sheet is inserted into the sheet bundle on the paper discharge tray 5, it is designated by the print job. The size of the insertion sheet becomes larger than the printed product of the normal size, and the user can easily find the insertion sheet in the sheet bundle.

  The fourth setting item 53 is an item for setting whether to print an image indicating the inspection result so far on the insertion sheet. The image in this case includes position information indicating the number of defective prints before the insertion sheet. For example, when an insertion sheet is inserted immediately after a defective printed material, the position of the defective printed material can be grasped without printing position information indicating the position of the defective printed material on the inserted paper. In such a case, it is not necessary to print an image indicating the inspection result on the insertion sheet. However, it is difficult to discharge the insertion sheet immediately after the defective printed matter is discharged onto the discharge tray 5, and the insertion sheet is inserted after one or more normal printed items are discharged after the defective printed matter. In such a case, it is useful to print position information indicating the position of the defective printed material on the insertion sheet.

  The fifth setting item 54 is an item for setting from which paper feed tray the printing paper used for creating the insertion sheet is fed. FIG. 4 illustrates a case where “the same tray as the print job” is set. Thus, by setting the fifth setting item 54 to “the same tray as the print job”, an insertion sheet is created using the same print sheet as that used in the print job. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare a sheet having a different size from the printing sheet used in the print job as the insertion sheet. In the fifth setting item 54, the user can specify a tray different from the print job. For example, if the user wants the inserted paper color to be different from the color of the printing paper used in the print job, the setting is made to feed the paper to be inserted from a paper tray different from the paper tray used in the print job. It may be.

  The inspection job setting unit 22 generates an inspection job setting 9 based on a user operation performed on the inspection job setting screen, and stores the inspection job setting 9 in the storage unit 15. That is, the inspection job setting 9 stored in the storage unit 15 is information including setting values selected by the user for the plurality of setting items 50 to 54 described above. When the user does not perform a setting operation on the inspection job setting screen, the storage unit 15 stores the inspection job setting 9 in which default values are reflected for the plurality of setting items 50 to 54.

  The timing determination unit 23 is a processing unit that determines whether it is time to execute an inspection job, that is, whether it is timing to output an insertion sheet to a sheet bundle on the paper discharge tray 5. The timing determination unit 23 reads the inspection job setting 9 from the storage unit 15 and determines that the timing specified as the insertion timing in the inspection job setting 9 is the timing for executing the inspection job.

  For example, when “when defect is detected” is set as the insertion timing, the timing determination unit 23 determines that the inspection job is to be executed when a defect image is detected in the inspection device 3. More specifically, when the inspection result input unit 21 acquires the inspection result 7 from the inspection device 3, the timing determination unit 23 reads the inspection result 7 from the storage unit 15 and analyzes the inspection result 7. When it is recorded in the inspection result 7 that a defective image has been detected, the timing determination unit 23 determines that it is time to execute the inspection job. Then, the timing determination unit 23 instructs the job control unit 24 to execute an inspection job.

  When the timing determination unit 23 instructs the job control unit 24 to execute the inspection job, the job control unit 24 temporarily stops the execution of the current print job. That is, the job control unit 24 temporarily interrupts the execution of the print job by interrupting the feeding of the printing paper based on the print job. However, even if the job control unit 24 stops new paper feeding, there is a possibility that image formation has already started on the printing paper already fed in the printer unit 16. For this reason, when image formation based on a print job is started on a fed print sheet, the job control unit 24 inspects the print sheet by the inspection apparatus 3 and further cuts the print sheet by the cutting apparatus 4. To control.

  The job control unit 24 generates an inspection job in response to an instruction to execute the inspection job from the timing determination unit 23. That is, the job control unit 24 refers to the inspection job setting 9 stored in advance in the storage unit 15 and generates an inspection job based on the inspection job setting 9 and the interrupted print job. For example, the job control unit 24 generates imposition information 6 for the inspection job based on the imposition information 6 for the print job. At this time, the job control unit 24 generates the inspection job imposition information 6 including information on the cutting positions E, B, C, and D described above based on the inspection job setting 9.

  In addition, when the setting for displaying the inspection result in the inspection job setting 9 is ON, the job control unit 24 displays an image including position information indicating the position of the defective printed material based on the inspection result 7 within the image forming range. Generate a placed inspection job. When the setting for displaying the inspection result in the inspection job setting 9 is OFF, the job control unit 24 generates an inspection job in which a blank image is arranged within the range where image formation is performed. The image arranged in the range where the image formation of the printing paper is performed in the inspection job is an image for the insertion paper (image for insertion paper).

  When the inspection job is generated as described above, the job control unit 24 starts executing the inspection job. In other words, the job control unit 24 feeds the printing paper designated in the inspection job setting 9 from the paper feeding unit 17, and the image arranged in the range where the image forming unit 18 forms the inspection job image is used as the printing paper. Print. However, when the image is blank, image formation by the image forming unit 18 may not be performed. The job control unit 24 outputs imposition information 6 of the inspection job to the inspection device 3 and the cutting device 4 when starting execution of the inspection job.

  The image forming apparatus 2 conveys the printing paper fed as the inspection job to the inspection apparatus 3 as the inspection job is executed. The inspection apparatus 3 does not perform the inspection process if the print sheet on which the inspection job is executed is conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2 and only the information indicating the inspection result is printed on the print sheet. May be omitted. When the inspection job printing paper is conveyed to the cutting device 4, the cutting device 4 cuts the printing paper based on the imposition information 6 of the inspection job and discharges the printing paper to the paper discharge tray 5. After executing the inspection job as described above, the job control unit 24 resumes the execution of the print job that has been interrupted.

  The inspection device 3 includes a communication unit 30, an image reading unit 31, a determination unit 32, and a storage unit 33 as the hardware configuration.

  The communication unit 30 is a communication unit for communicating with the image forming apparatus 2. The inspection device 3 transmits the inspection result 7 of the image printed on the printing paper to the image forming device 2 via the communication unit 30. Further, the inspection device 3 receives the imposition information 6 and all the image data 8 included in the print job from the image forming device 2 via the communication unit 30. When receiving the imposition information 6, the communication unit 30 outputs the imposition information 6 to the determination unit 32. Further, the communication unit 30 stores the image data 8 included in the print job in the storage unit 33.

  The image reading unit 31 captures a print sheet when the print sheet passing through the inspection apparatus 3 passes a predetermined reading position, and outputs the captured image to the determination unit 32.

  The determination unit 32 is a processing unit that determines whether or not a defective image is included in a print sheet on which an image is formed based on a print job. Based on the imposition information 6 of the print job, the determination unit 32 specifies which part of the printing paper on which image formation based on the print job has been performed is printed. Then, when the captured image captured by the image reading unit 31 is acquired, the determination unit 32 compares the print image included in the captured image with the image data 8 stored in the storage unit 33 to obtain a print image. Detects defects such as smudges, color shifts, misalignments, and wrinkles on printing paper. When a plurality of images are printed on one sheet of printing paper, the determination unit 32 compares each of the plurality of images with the original image data 8 so that a defective image is included in the plurality of images. It is determined whether or not.

  When the determination unit 32 finishes the determination process for one print sheet, it generates an inspection result 7 and outputs the inspection result 7 to the image forming apparatus 2. For example, when the printing paper includes a defective image, the determination unit 32 generates an inspection result 7 including information indicating the position of the defective image on the printing paper and outputs the inspection result 7 to the image forming apparatus 2. On the other hand, when the printing paper does not include a defective image, the determination unit 32 generates an inspection result 7 including information indicating that printing has been normally performed, and outputs the inspection result 7 to the image forming apparatus 2. The determination unit 32 may output the inspection result 7 to the image forming apparatus 2 only when a defective image is detected.

  The storage unit 33 is a non-volatile storage device configured by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or the like. The storage unit 15 stores various programs and data. For example, as described above, the storage unit 15 stores all the image data 8 included in the print job transmitted from the image forming apparatus 2 when the execution of the print job is started.

  The cutting device 4 includes a communication unit 40, a cutting control unit 41, and a cutting unit 42 as the hardware configuration.

  The communication unit 40 is a communication unit for communicating with the image forming apparatus 2. The cutting apparatus 4 receives imposition information 6 for specifying a cutting position from the image forming apparatus 2 via the communication unit 40. The communication unit 40 outputs the imposition information 6 received from the image forming apparatus 2 to the cutting control unit 41.

  The cutting control unit 41 controls the cutting unit 42. The cutting unit 42 includes a cutting unit such as a cutter, and can cut the printing paper at any position in the paper transport direction (sub-scanning direction) and the direction orthogonal to the paper transport direction (main scanning direction). .

  For example, when the print job is being executed, the cutting control unit 41 instructs the cutting unit 42 on the cutting position based on the imposition information 6 of the print job. That is, the cutting control unit 41 instructs the cutting unit 42 on the cutting positions A, B, C, and D shown in FIG. 2A during execution of the print job. On the other hand, when the inspection job is being executed, the cutting control unit 41 instructs the cutting unit 42 on the cutting position based on the imposition information 6 of the inspection job. That is, the cutting control unit 41 instructs the cutting unit 42 about the cutting positions E, B, C, and D shown in FIG. 2B during the execution of the inspection job.

  When the printing paper is conveyed from the inspection device 3, the cutting unit 42 cuts the printing paper at a cutting position designated by the cutting control unit 41. Therefore, when the print job is being executed, the cutting unit 42 cuts the printing paper at the cutting positions A, B, C, and D shown in FIG. 2A, and prints the normal size printed matter specified in the print job. Can be generated. When the inspection job is being executed, the cutting unit 42 cuts the printing paper at the cutting positions E, B, C, and D shown in FIG. An insertion sheet having a size larger than the normal size specified in the job can be generated. Thereafter, the cutting unit 42 discharges the cut printing paper to the paper discharge tray 5.

  Next, an example of the operation performed in the image forming system 1 as described above will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operation process performed in the image forming apparatus 2, the inspection apparatus 3, and the cutting apparatus 4. First, the image forming apparatus 2 analyzes the print job in response to an instruction to execute the print job by the user (process P1). In other words, the image forming apparatus 2 acquires the image data 8 and the imposition setting included in the print job by analyzing the print job. The image forming apparatus 2 generates imposition information 6 based on the imposition setting of the print job. The image forming apparatus 2 transmits the image data 8 included in the print job to the inspection apparatus 3 and transmits imposition information 6 corresponding to the imposition setting of the print job to each of the inspection apparatus 3 and the cutting apparatus 4. (Process P2).

  Next, the image forming apparatus 2 starts execution of the print job, and forms an image on a print sheet based on the image data 8 included in the print job (process P3). The image forming apparatus 2 outputs the printing paper on which the image has been formed to the inspection apparatus 3 (process P4). The inspection apparatus 3 inspects the image formed on the printing paper output from the image forming apparatus 2 (process P5). When the inspection apparatus 3 detects that a defective image is formed on the printing paper in the inspection process (process P6), the inspection apparatus 7 transmits an inspection result 7 indicating that the defective image has been detected to the image forming apparatus 2 (process P7). . When the image forming apparatus 2 recognizes that a defective image has been detected based on the inspection result 7 output from the inspection apparatus 3, the image forming apparatus 2 interrupts execution of the current print job (process P8). For example, the image forming apparatus 2 can interrupt the execution of the print job by stopping the paper feeding operation for the print job.

  On the other hand, the inspection device 3 conveys the printing paper for which inspection processing has been completed to the cutting device 4 (process P9). The cutting device 4 executes a first cutting process for cutting a print sheet based on the imposition information 6 of the print job (process P10). The first cutting process is a process of cutting a print sheet on which an image based on the print job is formed, and cuts the print sheet into a normal size designated by the print job. Then, the cutting device 4 discharges the printed material cut to the normal size onto the paper discharge tray 5. As described above, even when the execution of the print job is interrupted, the image forming system 1 prints during the passing of the print paper based on the print job in the image forming system 1. The process based on the print job is continuously executed on the paper.

  Next, the image forming apparatus 2 generates an inspection job and starts executing the inspection job (process P11). Accordingly, the image forming apparatus 2 generates the inspection job imposition information 6 based on the print job and the inspection job setting 9, and transmits the inspection job imposition information 6 to the inspection apparatus 3 and the cutting apparatus 4. (Process P12). However, the image forming apparatus 2 does not need to transmit the image data of the image formed on the printing paper by the inspection job to the inspection apparatus 3. This is because it is not necessary for the inspection apparatus 3 to perform inspection processing on the printing paper conveyed during the execution of the inspection job.

  Next, the image forming apparatus 2 forms an image for insertion paper on the printing paper fed based on the inspection job (process P13). The image forming apparatus 2 outputs the printing paper on which the insertion sheet image is formed to the inspection apparatus 3 (process P14). The inspection device 3 that has received the printing paper on which the insertion paper image is formed conveys the printing paper to the cutting device 4 without inspecting the insertion paper image (process P15). The cutting device 4 executes a second cutting process for cutting the print sheet based on the imposition information 6 of the inspection job (process P16). The second cutting process is a process of cutting the printing paper on which an image based on the inspection job is formed, and cutting the printing paper to a size specified by the inspection job (a size larger than the normal size specified by the printing job). To do. By this second cutting process, an insertion sheet having a size larger than the printed matter on the discharge tray 5 is created. Then, the cutting device 4 discharges the inserted paper cut to a size larger than the normal size onto the paper discharge tray 5.

  Next, the timing for passing printing paper in the image forming system 1 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of sheet passing timing when four print sheets are conveyed by executing a print job and an inspection job. First, when the job control unit 24 starts execution of a print job, the first print sheet 70 is fed in the image forming apparatus 2 at timing T60. The first printing paper 70 is subjected to image formation based on the print job in a period from timing T60 to timing T61. At timing T61 when the first printing paper 70 on which an image based on the print job is formed is output to the inspection apparatus 3, the second printing paper 71 is fed in the image forming apparatus 2. The second print sheet 71 is subjected to image formation based on the print job in a period from timing T61 to timing T62. Further, during the period from timing T61 to timing T62, the inspection process by the inspection apparatus 3 is performed on the first printing paper 70.

  At the timing T62 when the second print sheet 71 on which an image based on the print job is formed is output to the inspection apparatus 3, the third print sheet 72 is fed in the image forming apparatus 2. The third print sheet 72 is subjected to image formation based on the print job in a period from timing T62 to timing T64. Further, during the period from timing T62 to timing T64, the second printing paper 71 is subjected to inspection processing by the inspection device 3. Further, during the period from timing T62 to timing T64, the first printing paper 70 is subjected to the first cutting process by the cutting device 4, and the printed material cut into the normal size designated by the print job is placed on the discharge tray 5. To be discharged.

  As shown in FIG. 6, it is assumed that a defective image is detected at timing T63 when the inspection apparatus 3 is inspecting the second printing paper 71 during the period from timing T62 to timing T64. In this case, the image forming apparatus 2 interrupts execution of the print job. That is, the image forming apparatus 2 does not perform the next paper feeding operation for the print job even at the timing T64 when the third print sheet 72 is conveyed to the inspection apparatus 3, and executes the subsequent print job. Interrupt.

  On the other hand, at timing T63, image formation on the third printing paper 72 has already started. For this reason, the image forming system 1 continuously executes the processing for the second and third printing sheets 71 and 72 that are being passed when the execution of the print job is interrupted.

  The image forming apparatus 2 also waits for the inspection job to be executed until the inspection process for the third printing paper 72, which is the last printing paper in the process of passing, is completed. That is, the image forming apparatus 2 waits until the timing T65 when the third printing sheet 72 is conveyed to the cutting apparatus 4, and starts executing the inspection job at the timing T65. Accordingly, there is an advantage that an inspection job reflecting the inspection result of the third printing paper 72 can be executed. For example, when the second printing paper 71 becomes a defective image due to running out of toner, the subsequent third printing paper 72 may also become a defective image. Even in such a case, if the inspection job is waiting to be executed, the image for insertion paper indicating that the second and third printed materials are defective at the time of execution of the inspection job is displayed in the inspection job. It becomes possible to print on the fourth printing paper 73 to be fed.

  When the image forming apparatus 2 starts executing the inspection job at timing T65, the image forming apparatus 2 starts feeding the printing paper (fourth printing paper 73) designated by the inspection job, and for the insertion paper indicating the position of the defective printed matter. Print the image. The fourth printing paper 73 may be the same as the first to third printing papers 70 to 72. When the fourth printing paper 73 is conveyed to the cutting device 4, the fourth printing paper 73 is cut to a size larger than the first to third printing papers 70 to 72 and is discharged as insertion paper. It is discharged onto the tray 5.

  Next, a specific processing procedure in the image forming system 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed in the image forming system 1. This process is started when the job control unit 24 of the image forming apparatus 2 executes a print job, and is performed for each print sheet. That is, the job control unit 24 executes a plurality of processes in steps S2 to S17 shown in FIG. 7 in parallel. First, details of a specific processing procedure from when the first printing paper 70 is fed to when the first printing paper 70 is discharged to the discharge tray 5 will be described. When executing the print job, the job control unit 24 first checks whether or not the current timing is the paper feed timing (step S1). Since the first print sheet 70 can be fed at the start of execution of the print job, YES is determined in step S1. Next, the job control unit 24 checks whether or not the print job interruption flag is OFF (step S2). The interruption flag is information that is set to ON when a defective image is detected in the preceding print sheet inspection process, and is set to OFF in the initial state. Since there is no preceding printing paper at the paper feeding timing of the first printing paper 70, YES is determined in step S2. Then, the job control unit 24 feeds the first printing paper 70 (step S3). When the first printing paper 70 is fed, the job control unit 24 checks whether or not the insertion paper flag is ON (step S4). The insertion sheet flag is information that is set to ON when it is necessary to insert an insertion sheet by executing an inspection job, and is set to OFF in the initial state. When the first printing paper is fed, there is no preceding printing paper, so NO is determined in step S4. As a result, the processing by the job control unit 24 proceeds to step S5. As a result, processing based on the print job proceeds.

  The job control unit 24 drives the image forming unit 18 to form an image based on the print job on the first printing paper 70 (step S5). The first printing paper 70 on which image formation has been performed is output from the image forming apparatus 2 to the inspection apparatus 3. Since the timing at this time is the timing T61 shown in FIG. 6, it is the feeding timing of the second printing paper 71.

  Next, the job control unit 24 causes the inspection apparatus 3 to execute an inspection process for the first print sheet 70 (step S6). FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure of the inspection process (step S6) performed in the inspection apparatus 3. When the inspection apparatus 3 starts the inspection process, it first refers to the imposition information 6 of the print job (step S18). Next, the inspection apparatus 3 performs an inspection process for inspecting whether or not the printing paper conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2 includes a defective image (step S19). The inspection device 3 generates an inspection result 7 indicating the result of the inspection processing, and stores the inspection result 7 in a memory (not shown) or the like (step S20). The inspection device 3 transmits the inspection result 7 to the image forming device 2 (step S21).

  Returning to FIG. 7, the job control unit 24 acquires the inspection result 7 from the inspection device 3 by causing the inspection device 3 to perform inspection processing. Based on the inspection result 7, the job control unit 24 determines whether or not a defective image is included in the printing paper (step S7). As a result, if the printing paper contains a defective image (YES in step S7), the job control unit 24 turns on the interruption flag (step S8). On the other hand, when the defective image is not included in the printing paper (NO in step S7), the interruption flag remains OFF. For example, in the case of the first printing paper 70 shown in FIG. 6, since no defective image is detected (NO in step S7), the job control unit 24 keeps the interruption flag OFF. The first printing paper 70 inspected by the inspection device 3 is conveyed to the cutting device 4. Since the timing at this time is timing T62 in FIG. 6, it is the feeding timing of the third printing paper 72. Next, the job control unit 24 causes the cutting apparatus 4 to perform the first cutting process, thereby cutting the first printing paper 70 into the normal size designated by the print job (step S9). As a result, a printed material obtained by cutting the first printing paper 70 is created and discharged to the paper discharge tray 5.

  Subsequently, the job control unit 24 determines again whether or not a defective image is included in the first printing paper 70 (step S10). As a result, if a defective image is included (YES in step S10), the processes in steps S11 to S14 are executed. On the other hand, if no defective image is included (NO in step S10), the process for the first printing paper 70 is terminated. In the case of the first printing paper 70 shown in FIG. 6, since no defective image is detected, the processing by the job control unit 24 ends.

  Next, a specific processing procedure from when the second print sheet 71 is fed to when the second print sheet 71 is discharged to the discharge tray 5 will be specifically described. At timing T61 (see FIG. 6), the job control unit 24 determines that it is the feeding timing of the second printing paper 71 (YES in step S1), and further determines whether or not the interruption flag is OFF. Judgment is made (step S2). At this time, since no defective image is detected on the first printing paper 70 and the interruption flag is OFF (YES in step S2), the job control unit 24 removes the second printing paper 71. Paper is fed to the image forming unit 18 (step S3). Further, the job control unit 24 determines whether or not the insertion sheet flag is ON (step S4). Since the insertion sheet flag is not set to ON in the process for the first printing sheet 70, the job control unit 24 determines that the insertion sheet flag is OFF (NO in step S4), and prints the second sheet. An image is formed on the paper 71 based on the print job (step S5). When the image formation on the second printing paper 71 is completed, the job control unit 24 conveys the second printing paper 71 to the inspection device 3 and performs inspection processing on the second printing paper 71 on the inspection device 3. This is executed (step S6, FIG. 8). As a result, the job control unit 24 can acquire the inspection result 7 of the second printing paper 71. In the example shown in FIG. 6, a defective image is detected on the second printing paper 71.

  Based on the inspection result 7 of the second print paper 71, the job control unit 24 determines that the second print paper 71 contains a defective image (YES in step S7), and print job interruption flag. Is turned ON (step S8). Next, the job control unit 24 causes the cutting device 4 to perform the first cutting process, thereby cutting the second printing paper 71 to the normal size specified by the print job (step S9). As a result, a printed material obtained by cutting the second printing paper 71 is created and discharged to the paper discharge tray 5.

  Subsequently, the job control unit 24 determines again whether or not the second printing paper 71 includes a defective image (step S10). As a result, since the second print sheet 71 contains a defective image (YES in step S10), the job control unit 24 executes the processes of steps S11 to S14. In other words, the job control unit 24 first determines whether the third and subsequent subsequent printing sheets are being passed (step S11). If the subsequent printing paper is being passed (YES in step S11), the job control unit 24 waits until the subsequent printing paper inspection process is completed (step S12). For example, when there are a plurality of subsequent printing sheets, the job control unit 24 waits until the inspection process is completed for all of the plurality of printing sheets. If the subsequent printing paper is not being passed (NO in step S11), the job control unit 24 starts the next process without waiting.

  Next, the job control unit 24 sets the insertion sheet flag to ON (step S13). Further, the job control unit 24 returns the interruption flag to OFF (step S14). Thus, the process for the second print sheet 71 is completed.

  Next, a specific processing procedure from when the third print sheet 72 is fed to when the third print sheet 72 is discharged to the discharge tray 5 will be specifically described. At timing T62 (see FIG. 6), the job control unit 24 determines that it is the feeding timing of the third printing paper 72 (YES in step S1), and further determines whether or not the interruption flag is OFF. Judgment is made (step S2). Since the interruption flag is still OFF at timing T62 (YES in step S2), the job control unit 24 feeds the third printing paper 72 to the image forming unit 18 (step S3). Further, the job control unit 24 determines whether or not the insertion sheet flag is ON (step S4). Since the insertion sheet flag is still OFF at timing T62, the job control unit 24 determines that the insertion sheet flag is OFF (NO in step S4), and sets the print job for the third printing sheet 72. Based on this, image formation is performed (step S5). When the image formation on the third printing paper 72 is completed, the job control unit 24 conveys the third printing paper 72 to the inspection device 3 and performs inspection processing on the third printing paper 72 in the inspection device 3. This is executed (step S6, FIG. 8).

  The job control unit 24 determines that no defective image is included in the third printing paper 72 based on the inspection result 7 of the third printing paper 72 (NO in step S7). Next, the job control unit 24 causes the cutting apparatus 4 to perform the first cutting process, thereby cutting the third print sheet 72 to the normal size specified in the print job (step S9). As a result, a printed material obtained by cutting the third printing paper 72 is created and discharged to the paper discharge tray 5. Since the third printing paper 72 does not include a defective image, the processes in steps S11 to S14 are not performed.

  Next, a specific processing procedure from when the fourth printing paper 73 is fed to when the fourth printing paper 73 is discharged to the discharge tray 5 will be specifically described. The job control unit 24 determines that it is the timing for feeding the fourth printing paper 73 at timing T64 (see FIG. 6), which is the timing for feeding the fourth printing paper 73 (YES in step S1). Further, it is determined whether or not the interruption flag is OFF (step S2). At this time, a defective image is detected on the second printing paper 71, and the interruption flag is set to ON. Therefore, the job control unit 24 waits until the interruption flag is changed to OFF (NO in step S2). That is, the job control unit 24 waits until timing T65 when the inspection process for the third printing paper 72 is completed. When the interruption flag is changed to OFF at timing T65 (YES in step S2), the job control unit 24 starts feeding the fourth printing paper 73 (step S3).

  Next, the job control unit 24 determines whether or not the insertion sheet flag is ON (step S4). Since the insertion sheet flag is set to ON at timing T65 (YES in step S4), the job control unit 24 executes an inspection job for the fourth printing sheet 73 (step S15).

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure when an inspection job is executed. When the execution of the inspection job is started, the job control unit 24 first analyzes the print job and acquires the imposition setting of the print job (step S23). Next, the job control unit 24 sets the size of the insertion sheet based on the imposition size of the print job based on the inspection job setting 9 (step S24). Next, the job control unit 24 reads the inspection result 7 of the second printing paper 71 in which the defective image is detected (step S25), and insertion including information indicating the position of the defective printed material based on the inspection result 7 Create a paper image. The job control unit 24 arranges the insertion sheet image in an area to be used as the insertion sheet of the printing sheet, and performs imposition of inspection information (step S26). For example, an image for inserting paper that indicates that the second printing paper 71 is a defective printed material is imposed on the fourth printing paper 73 with a size larger than the normal size (sub scanning direction +10 mm). The job control unit 24 generates imposition information 6 relating to the imposition setting of the inspection job, and transmits the imposition information 6 to the inspection apparatus 3 and the cutting apparatus 4 (step S27). Next, the job control unit 24 performs a printing process for forming an insertion sheet image on the fourth printing sheet 73 (step S28), and causes the fourth printing sheet 73 on which the insertion sheet image is printed. It outputs to the inspection device 3 (step S29).

  Returning to FIG. 7, when the insertion sheet image is formed on the fourth printing sheet 73, the job control unit 24 turns off the insertion sheet flag (step S16). Further, the job control unit 24 conveys the fourth printing paper 73 to the cutting device 4 without causing the inspection device 3 to inspect the fourth printing paper 73. Then, the job control unit 24 causes the cutting device 4 to perform the second cutting process, thereby creating an insertion sheet having a size larger than the normal size specified in the print job, and discharging the insertion sheet onto the discharge tray 5. (Step S17). Thus, the job control unit 24 ends the process for the fourth print sheet 73.

  As described above, the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment includes the inspection device 3 that performs inspection to determine whether or not the printing paper output from the image forming unit 18 is defective, and the printing that indicates the inspection result 7 by the inspection device 3. A timing determination unit 23 that determines whether or not it is a timing to insert a sheet, and a printing that indicates the inspection result 7 when the timing determination unit 23 determines that it is a timing to insert a print sheet that indicates the inspection result 7 An image forming unit 18 that executes an inspection job for creating a paper, and a cutting device 4 that outputs a paper that is larger than the normal size specified in the print job when a print paper indicating the inspection result 7 is output. And. Accordingly, the printing paper indicating the inspection result 7 is cut to a size larger than the size specified in the print job to create an insertion paper, and the large insertion paper is output to the paper bundle on the paper discharge tray 5. be able to. According to such an image forming system 1, it is possible to create an insertion sheet having a size larger than the size specified in the print job by using a print sheet having the same size as the print sheet used in the print job. Therefore, even if the printing paper used in the printing job is the largest printing paper that can be accommodated in the image forming apparatus 2, a large-size insertion sheet can be output on the paper bundle. Become.

  In addition, the image forming system 1 described above interrupts the execution of the print job when the timing determination unit 23 determines that the inspection job is to be executed, and the uninspected print paper is being passed. For example, the inspection job is not started to be executed until the inspection process for the uninspected print paper is completed, and the apparatus waits. In other words, when it is determined that it is time to execute the inspection job, the paper feeding unit 17 feeds the printing paper used in the inspection job after the inspection processing for the uninspected printing paper is completed. Thus, when executing the inspection job, there is an advantage that the inspection result of the printing paper that has not been inspected can be reflected.

  However, the image forming system 1 is not necessarily limited to the one that waits for the execution of the inspection job. That is, the image forming system 1 may interrupt the execution of the print job and immediately start the execution of the inspection job when the timing determination unit 23 determines that the inspection job is to be executed. I do not care.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment, the case where one image is impositioned mainly on one printing sheet has been described. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, an example in which a plurality of images are impositioned on one print sheet will be described. Note that the hardware configuration and functional configuration of the image forming system 1 of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a plurality of images are impositioned on a single print sheet. When imposing a plurality of images on a single printing paper, there are various variations. For example, the number of images arranged in the direction (main scanning direction) orthogonal to the paper conveyance direction of the printing paper is M (where M is an integer satisfying M ≧ 1), and the paper conveyance direction of the printing paper (sub-scanning direction) ) Is N (where N is an integer satisfying N ≧ 1), M × N images can be imposed on one print sheet. When the imposition setting of M × N images is set in the print job, the image forming unit 18 determines that the number of print sheets is N in the paper transport direction and the paper transport direction of the print paper is based on the print job. M images are printed in the orthogonal direction. The inspection device 3 performs inspection processing on each of the M × N images, and the cutting device 4 cuts the printing paper on which M × N images are printed into M × N, A bundle of output sheets (sheet bundle) is output on the sheet discharge tray 5.

  FIG. 10A illustrates the case of M = 3 and N = 3, and the number of images imposed on one print sheet is “9”. As described above, when the imposition setting for imposing nine images on one print sheet is performed in the print job, the image forming apparatus 2 forms nine images on one print sheet. The inspection device 3 inspects each of these nine images. The cutting device 4 cuts one printing sheet into nine printed materials based on the imposition information 9 of the print job.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the printing paper on which nine images are imposed is cut by the cutting device 4 and discharged to the paper discharge tray 5. Form. That is, the printed material cut into nine is transported along the paper transport direction after cutting and discharged onto the paper discharge tray 5, so that the first paper bundle and the second paper bundle are placed on the paper discharge tray 5. And three sheet bundles of the third sheet bundle are generated. As the print job progresses, the same number of printed matter is added to the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle.

  FIG. 10B is a diagram illustrating an example of a conveyance state of a print sheet on which a plurality of images are imposed during execution of a print job. In FIG. 10B, the third image of the first sheet bundle and the second image of the third sheet bundle on the first print sheet 81 are defective images, and the third image on the second print sheet 82 is the third image. The case where the fifth image of the sheet bundle is a defective image is illustrated. The inspection apparatus 3 performs an inspection process on the first printing paper 81, whereby the third image of the first paper bundle and the second image of the third paper bundle are defective images on the first printing paper 81. Is detected. At this time, the second printing paper 82 has already been fed and the image forming system 1 is passing through. Therefore, the image forming system 1 continues processing for the first and second print sheets 81 and 82 based on the print job, and interrupts the execution of the print job by stopping the third and subsequent sheets. Let

  When the inspection processing for the second print sheet 82 is completed in the inspection apparatus 3, the image forming system 1 starts executing the inspection job. The image forming system 1 starts feeding the third printing paper and performs processing based on the inspection job on the third printing paper. Therefore, an image for insertion paper indicating the position of the defective printed matter is formed on the third printing paper.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image formed on the third print sheet. FIG. 11A shows a first image formation example, and FIG. 11B shows a second image formation example. When the inspection job is executed, the inspection processing of the first and second printing papers 81 and 82 is completed, and therefore the first and second printing papers are included in the third printing paper. An image reflecting the inspection results 81 and 82 can be formed. That is, the image forming system 1 creates an insertion sheet to be inserted into each of the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle as the inspection job is executed.

  First, the first image forming example shown in FIG. 11A shows an example in which only the inspection result is printed on the third printing paper. When the inspection process for the second print sheet 82 is completed, the inspection apparatus 3 has inspected six images in each of the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle. The inspection device 3 detects that the third image is defective in the first sheet bundle and the second and fifth images are defective images in the third sheet bundle. Accordingly, as the job control unit 24 of the image forming apparatus 2 executes the inspection job, for each of the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle for the third print sheet. To create an insertion sheet. At this time, as shown in FIG. 11A, the inserted sheet discharged to the first sheet bundle includes “6” which is the total number of images inspected by the inspection apparatus 3 in the first sheet bundle, and defective printed matter. An insertion sheet image of “No. 3” indicating the third printed matter is formed. In addition, an insertion sheet image indicating that there is no defective printed material and “6”, which is the total number of images inspected by the inspection apparatus 3 in the second sheet bundle, are formed on the insertion sheet discharged to the second sheet bundle. . Further, for the inserted paper discharged to the third paper bundle, “6” which is the total number of images inspected in the third paper bundle and “No. 2” indicating that the defective printed matter is the second and fifth printed matter. , 5 "is formed. That is, when a defective image is detected in at least one of the M sheet bundles by the inspection device 3, the job control unit 24 is in a direction (main scanning direction) orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction of the printing sheet. The inspection job is set so that image formation based on the inspection result is performed at the same position as the sheet bundle in which the defective image is detected.

  Further, when executing the inspection job, the job control unit 24 sets the cutting positions F and G in the paper transport direction (sub-scanning direction) of the third printing paper. The cutting positions F and G define the size of an insertion sheet to be inserted into each of the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle, and are discharged in the sheet transport direction (sub-scanning direction). The size of the inserted paper is set to be larger than the size of the printed matter discharged to the paper tray 5. Note that the cutting position in the direction (main scanning direction) orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction of the third printing sheet is set to the same position as the print job.

  Accordingly, when the third printing paper shown in FIG. 11A is guided to the cutting device 4, the cutting device 4 performs the first paper bundle, the second paper bundle, and the third paper bundle on the paper discharge tray 5. Three insertion sheets having a larger size are created, and each insertion sheet is discharged to the upper surface of each of the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle. In this way, information indicating whether or not each sheet bundle includes a defective print is printed on the insertion sheet discharged on the upper surface of each sheet bundle. In addition, when a defective print is included, information indicating where the defective print exists in each sheet bundle is also printed. Therefore, the user can easily identify the defective printed matter included in each sheet bundle by looking at the information printed on the insertion sheet.

  By the way, in the first image forming example shown in FIG. 11A, there is a large blank portion on the right side of the portion where the insertion sheet image is formed on the third printing paper. If this margin is cut and discarded, the printing paper is wasted. Therefore, the image forming system 1 of the present embodiment can also adopt the second image forming example as shown in FIG. 11B in order to effectively use the margin part in the third printing paper.

  In the second image forming example shown in FIG. 11B, the inspection result (inserted sheet image) is printed on the leading end side of the third print paper fed in the inspection job, and the paper transport direction An example is shown in which an image based on a print job is arranged and printed in a margin portion on the rear end side. When the job control unit 24 arranges an image based on the print job in the margin of the third printing paper fed in the inspection job, the job control unit 24 arranges an image following the image printed on the second printing paper 82. You may make it do. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 10B, since the sixth image of the print job is printed on the second print paper 82, the margin of the third print paper fed in the inspection job In the portion, the seventh and subsequent images of the print job are arranged.

  In addition, when the job control unit 24 arranges an image based on the print job in the margin part of the third printing paper fed in the inspection job, the part discharged to the sheet bundle including the defective printed material includes: You may make it arrange | position the recovery image for replacing with defective printed matter. In other words, the job control unit 24 arranges the same image as the image determined to be a defective image in a margin portion to be discharged onto the sheet bundle in which the defective image is detected. Accordingly, the image forming unit 18 can perform printing again on the blank portion of the printing paper fed during the inspection job based on the original image data of the defective image detected by the inspection device 3. And a printed material for replacing the defective printed material can be obtained. FIG. 11B shows an example in which recovery images are arranged in this way.

  In the second image forming example shown in FIG. 11B, two sets of the first sheet bundle, the second sheet bundle, and the third sheet bundle are each based on the print job in the margin part on the rear end side in the sheet transport direction. Images are arranged. In the first sheet bundle, a recovery image for reprinting the third image and a seventh image that is a continuation of the print job are arranged in this order in the right margin of the inspection result (inserted sheet image). Has been. In the second sheet bundle, the seventh image and the eighth image, which are continuations of the print job, are arranged in this order in the right margin of the inspection result (inserted sheet image). In the third sheet bundle, a recovery image for reprinting the second image and a recovery image for reprinting the fifth image are displayed in the right margin of the inspection result (inserted sheet image). Arranged in order. In this way, it is possible to reduce the waste of printing paper by forming a recovery image and a continuation image of the printing job in the margin portion of the printing paper fed when the inspection job is executed. Further, if the recovery image is printed immediately after the insertion sheet on which the inspection result (inserted sheet image) is printed, there is an advantage that the defective printed material and the recovered printed material can be easily replaced. However, the recovery image is not limited to the one printed immediately after the insertion sheet, and after all the images included in the print job are printed out, the recovery image may be printed collectively.

  Next, a specific processing procedure in the image forming system 1 in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed in the image forming system 1 of the present embodiment. This process is started when the job control unit 24 of the image forming apparatus 2 executes a print job, and is performed for each print sheet. Since the processes other than step S15a and steps S30 to S33 of this process are the same as the process of FIG. 7 described in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, a case where the insertion sheet flag is ON at a timing when a certain printing sheet is fed will be described. If the insertion sheet flag is ON at the timing when the printing paper is fed (YES in step S4), the job control unit 24 executes an inspection job for the fed printing paper (step S15a). .

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed processing procedure of the inspection job execution (step S15a). When the execution of the inspection job is started, the job control unit 24 first analyzes the print job and acquires the imposition setting of the print job (step S23). Next, the job control unit 24 sets the size of the insertion sheet based on the imposition size of the print job based on the inspection job setting (step S24). That is, the size of the insertion sheet discharged to each sheet bundle is set to a size larger than the size of the printed matter specified by the print job. Next, the job control unit 24 reads the inspection result 7 (step S25).

  Next, the job control unit 24 performs imposition of an image to be printed on the printing paper based on the imposition number (M × N) designated in the print job. First, the job control unit 24 initializes a count value x that is the number of impositions in the main scanning direction (sheet bundle number) and a count value y that is the number of impositions in the sub-scanning direction (step S34). Next, the job control unit 24 checks whether or not the count value x, which is the number of impositions in the main scanning direction, is equal to the number M specified by the imposition setting of the print job (step S35). If the count value x is smaller than M (NO in step S35), imposition is performed by placing an insertion sheet image indicating information of the inspection result 7 in the imposition area corresponding to the current count value x, y (step). S26), 1 is added to the count value x (step S36). Thereafter, the processing from step S35 to step S36 is repeated until the count value x becomes equal to the number M specified by the imposition setting.

  If the count value x is equal to the number M specified in the imposition setting (YES in step S35), the job control unit adds 1 to the count value y that is the imposition number in the sub-scanning direction (step S37), It is confirmed whether the value y is equal to the number N specified in the imposition setting of the print job (step S38). If the count value y is smaller than N (NO in step S38), the count value x is initialized (step S39), and it is determined whether or not the count value x is equal to the number M specified in the imposition setting of the print job. Confirm (step S40). If the count value x is smaller than M (NO in step S40), it is determined whether or not imposition of the recovery image is performed on the surface corresponding to the current count values x and y (step S41). If the imposition of the recovery image corresponding to the image determined to be a defective image by the inspection device 3 is not completed (YES in step S41), the recovery image is impositioned preferentially (step S42). If the recovery image imposition has been completed or the sheet bundle has no defective print (NO in step S41), the image is impositioned based on the print job (step S43), and the image is formed based on the print job. The print job is updated in order to reflect in the print job that one has advanced by one (step S44). Next, 1 is added to the count value x (step S45). Thereafter, the processes in steps S40 to S45 are repeated until the count value x becomes equal to the number M specified by the imposition setting.

  If the count value x is equal to the number M specified in the imposition setting (YES in step S40), 1 is added to the count value y (step S46). Thereafter, the processing from step S38 to step S46 is repeated until the count value y becomes equal to the number N specified in the imposition setting. If the count value y is the same as the number N specified in the imposition setting (YES in step S38), the imposition is finished, and the imposition information 6 regarding the set imposition setting is sent to the inspection device 3 and the cutting device 4. Transmit (step S27). Next, the job control unit 24 drives the image forming unit 18 to print an image imposed on the printing paper as an inspection job (step S28), and outputs it to the inspection device 3 (step S29).

  Returning to FIG. 12, when the image forming based on the inspection job is performed as described above, the job control unit 24 turns off the insertion sheet flag (step S16). Next, the job control unit 24 causes the inspection device 3 to execute inspection processing of the printing paper conveyed by the inspection job (step S30). Based on the inspection result 7 acquired from the inspection apparatus 3, the job control unit 24 determines whether or not a defective image is included in the image based on the print job printed on the margin portion of the printing paper (step S31). If at least one defective image is detected from a plurality of images applied to the printing paper (YES in step S31), the job control unit 24 sets the interruption flag to ON (step S32). On the other hand, when a plurality of images printed based on the print job do not include a defective image (NO in step S31), the job control unit 24 does not set the interruption flag to ON. Then, the job control unit 24 causes the cutting device 4 to perform the second cutting process as the printing paper transported in the inspection job is transported to the cutting device 4 (step S17). The cutting device 4 cuts the printing paper based on the imposition information 6 relating to the imposition setting of the inspection job, so that the insertion paper on which the image for the insertion paper is printed has a size larger than the normal size specified in the printing job. The sheet is cut and discharged to the discharge tray 5, and the portion on which the image based on the print job is imprinted is cut to a normal size designated by the print job and discharged to the discharge tray 5.

  Next, the job control unit 24 determines whether or not the interruption flag is ON (step S33). When the interruption flag is ON (YES in step S33), the process by the job control unit 24 proceeds to step S11, and the same process as that in steps S11 to 14 described in the first embodiment is performed. On the other hand, when the interruption flag is OFF (NO in step S33), the job control unit 24 ends the execution of the inspection job.

  As described above, the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment reduces waste of printing paper by performing image formation based on a recovery image or a printing job on a margin of the printing paper on which an image for insertion paper is formed. Can do. Further, by forming the recovery image immediately after the insertion sheet image, there is an advantage that the defective printed material and the recovered printed material can be easily replaced.

(Modification)
Heretofore, several embodiments relating to the present invention have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the above embodiments, and various modifications can be applied.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the case where the printing paper output from the image forming apparatus 2 is conveyed in the order of the inspection apparatus 3 to the cutting apparatus 4 is illustrated. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the printing paper output from the image forming apparatus 2 may be conveyed in the order of the cutting apparatus 4 to the inspection apparatus 3. Even in this case, there is no change in that there are the effects described in the above embodiment.

  In the above-described embodiment, the operation when the insertion timing for inserting the insertion sheet is set to “at the time of detecting a defect” (when the inspection apparatus 3 detects a defective image) has been mainly described. However, the timing for executing the inspection job is not necessarily limited when a defect is detected. For example, when the user performs setting to insert an insertion sheet each time a predetermined number of sheets (for example, 100 sheets) are printed, the image forming system 1 prints a predetermined number of sheets (for example, 100 sheets) during execution of the print job. Each time output is performed, the execution of the print job is temporarily interrupted, and the inspection job for discharging the insertion sheet displaying the inspection results up to that time is interrupted and executed. In this case, the image forming system 1 executes the print job without executing the inspection job if a new defective image is not detected in the inspection results up to that point when the predetermined number of prints are output. It may be continued.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the inspection job is executed in the image forming system 1, the case where the paper feeding unit 17 feeds the same printing paper as the printing paper specified by the printing job is illustrated. However, the print paper fed in the inspection job is not necessarily the same as the print paper fed in the print job. For example, in the fifth setting item 54 described above, when the user selects a tray different from the print job, the image forming system 1 prints paper from a tray different from the tray used in the print job when the inspection job is executed. And execute the inspection job. Therefore, when the print paper used in the print job is a high-quality and expensive print paper, the insertion paper can be created using the low-quality and cheap print paper when the inspection job is executed. . However, if the print paper used in the inspection job is different from the print paper used in the print job, an image based on the print job is not imposed on the margin of the print paper when the inspection job is executed. It is preferable.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where an image indicating an inspection result (an image for inserting paper) is printed on a print sheet and output is mainly illustrated at the time of executing an inspection job. However, when the inspection job is executed, the image forming unit 18 may not perform image formation. For example, if the fourth setting item 53 described above is set not to print an image indicating the inspection result, the job control unit 24 generates a job that does not perform image formation in the image forming unit 18 as an inspection job. To do. In other words, the inspection job in this case is a job in which the printing paper is cut into a size larger than the normal size specified in the printing job and the insertion paper is output onto the paper discharge tray 5.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the control unit 19 that controls the operation of the image forming system 1 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 2 is illustrated. However, the control unit 19 described above is not necessarily limited to that mounted on the image forming apparatus 2. For example, the control unit 19 may be provided separately from the image forming apparatus 2 and may control the image forming apparatus 2, the inspection apparatus 3, and the cutting apparatus 4 via a network or the like. In this case, the control unit 19 may be configured by a personal computer, for example.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming system 2 Image forming apparatus 3 Inspection apparatus (inspection means)
4 Cutting device (cutting means)
5 Output tray 7 Inspection result (Inspection result)
15 Storage unit (storage means)
17 Paper feeding unit (paper feeding means)
18 Image forming unit (image forming means)
20 programs

Claims (17)

An image forming unit configured to form and output an image based on the print job by executing the print job;
Inspection means for inspecting whether there is a defect in the printing paper output from the image forming means;
Timing determination means for determining whether it is timing to output the inspection result by the inspection means;
Cutting means for cutting the printing paper output from the image forming means;
With
The image forming unit executes an inspection job for indicating the inspection result when the timing determining unit determines that it is a timing to output the inspection result,
When the printing paper on which the print job has been executed is output from the image forming unit, the cutting unit cuts the printing paper into a size specified by the print job, and outputs a printed matter. An image forming system, wherein when a printing paper on which the inspection job has been executed is output, the printing paper is cut out to be larger than the size of the printed matter.   The cutting unit cuts the size of the printing paper in the paper conveyance direction larger than the size of the printed material when the printing paper on which the inspection job is executed is output from the image forming unit. The image forming system according to claim 1.   The image forming unit interrupts image formation based on a print job and forms an image based on the inspection result on a print sheet when the timing determination unit determines that the inspection result is output at a timing. The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2. A paper feeding means for feeding printing paper to the image forming means;
Further comprising
The paper feeding means feeds the same printing paper when the timing judgment means determines that it is the timing to output the inspection result and when it is determined not to output the inspection result. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system is an image forming system. A paper feeding means for feeding printing paper to the image forming means;
Further comprising
The paper feeding means feeds different printing paper when the timing judgment means determines that it is the timing to output the inspection result and when it is determined not to output the inspection result. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system is an image forming system.   When the timing determining unit determines that the timing is to output the detection result, the sheet feeding unit executes the inspection job after the inspection unit finishes inspecting the printing paper in the uninspected state. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the printing paper is fed. The image forming means is capable of forming an image in a state where a plurality of images are impositioned on a print sheet based on a print job,
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the inspection unit inspects each of the plurality of images. Based on the print job, the image forming means includes N pieces in the paper transport direction of the print paper (where N is an integer satisfying N ≧ 1) and M pieces in the direction orthogonal to the paper feed direction of the print paper ( However, it is possible to perform image formation in a state where M is an imposition of an image of M) that satisfies M ≧ 1.
The inspection means inspects each of M × N images,
When the printing sheet on which M × N images are formed based on a print job is output from the image forming unit, the cutting unit cuts the printing sheet into M × N output sheets. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system outputs a bundle of output sheets.   The image forming means detects a defect in at least one of the bundle of M output sheets by the inspection means when it is determined by the timing determination means that the inspection result is output. 9. The image according to claim 8, wherein image formation based on the inspection result is performed at the same position as the output position of the printed matter in which a defect is detected in a direction orthogonal to the paper conveyance direction of the printing paper. Forming system.   10. The image forming unit according to claim 9, wherein the image forming unit performs image formation based on image data of an image in which a defect is detected by the inspection unit with respect to a margin portion of a printing paper on which the inspection job is executed. Image forming system.   The image forming system according to claim 9, wherein the image forming unit forms an image based on a print job on a margin portion of a print sheet on which the inspection job is executed.   12. The image forming system according to claim 8, wherein the image forming unit performs image formation based on the inspection job on a leading end side of a printing sheet in a sheet conveying direction.   2. The cutting unit according to claim 1, wherein when the printing paper on which the inspection job is executed is output from the image forming unit, the cutting unit outputs the printed material by cutting to a size specified by the inspection job. The image forming system according to any one of 12.   The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the timing determination unit determines that it is a timing to output an inspection result when a defect is detected by the inspection unit.   15. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the inspection job is a job in which the image forming unit forms an image on a printing paper based on an inspection result including position information of a defective printed material. .   The image forming system according to claim 14, wherein the inspection job is a job in which the image forming unit does not perform image formation. An image forming unit configured to form and output an image based on the print job by executing the print job;
Inspection means for inspecting whether there is a defect in the printing paper output from the image forming means;
Cutting means for cutting printing paper output from the image forming apparatus;
A program executed in a computer that controls an image forming system comprising:
In the computer,
A timing determination step for determining whether it is a timing for outputting an inspection result by the inspection means;
An inspection result output step for executing an inspection job for indicating an inspection result when it is determined by the timing determination means that it is a timing to output an inspection result;
When the printing paper on which the print job is executed is output from the image forming unit, the cutting unit causes the printing paper to be cut to a size specified by the print job, and outputs a printed matter. A cutting control step for causing the cutting means to cut the printing paper to be larger than the size of the printed matter when the printing paper on which the inspection job has been executed is output from the means; and
A program characterized by having executed.

Images