Eastman-Kodak Company

Otto Meijer

Thomas F Kaltenbach

Thomas K Winkler

Scott C Kloesz

The present invention relates to an automatic print inspection method in which photographic prints are scanned to obtain digitized images. The scanned digitized image of the photographic print is compared to digital image data which represents the original captured image. The resulting digital correction data indicates whether or not there are defects in the print media or faults in the printer process, including the digitizing steps. Signal processing transformations may be used to decide how to separate media defects from processing faults and how to correct for the latter. The method of the present invention can be used as a final quality check so that any defective prints can be rejected and remade before orders go out to a customer.

Method for inspecting prints identifying differences exceeding a threshold

Method for inspecting prints

A photographic printer and a method of printing in which the printer is interfaced with a defect detection or scanning system is adapted to inspect photographic paper for defects as it is consumed by the printer. In the system and method of the present invention, when a defect is detected, the printer is enabled to either skip over the defect area or to reprint the affected image. With respect to the defect, when detected, the present invention provides either for the utilization of a defect marker, such as a hole punch, which provides a physical mark on the paper in close vicinity of the defect or an electronic device capable of transmitting the precise location of the defect to the printing section. The hole or electronic signal is recognized by the printer, to enable it to either skip the defective frames or reprint the images.

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Wolcott, NY, United States of America

Otto Meijer