Abstract: The image evaluation method and apparatus check for image abnormalities. In the method and apparatus, a Mahalanobis space is set preliminarily using a specified characteristic quantity extracted from specified image data. Then, Mahalanobis distance in the Mahalanobis space using image data read from an image to be evaluated. The calculated Mahalanobis distance is compared with a specified threshold value to check for the image abnormalities in the image to be evaluated. The method and apparatus provide a quantitative criterion in checking for abnormal image and enable image evaluation to be performed in a simple and rapid manner to realize efficient inspection.

Abstract: Improved transport apparatus for auxiliary scanning, which is to be used with an image recording system in which exposing light sources issuing optical beams to be deflected in the main scanning direction are used to scan and expose a web of light-sensitive material has an exposure drum that transports the web of light-sensitive material in a auxiliary scanning direction which is substantially perpendicular to the main scanning direction as it is held in a predetermined exposing position, as well as a first and a second nip roller that are spaced apart in the auxiliary scanning direction, with the exposing position lying in between, and which urge the web of light-sensitive material against the exposure drum, the first nip roller being located upstream the auxiliary scanning direction and provided with a uniform predetermined nip pressure at both end portions, and the second nip roller being located downstream the auxiliary scanning direction and provided at opposite end portions with nip pressures within a p