U.S. patent application number 15/356738 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-01 for image reading apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha. Invention is credited to Tatsuya FUJISAKI, Kazuhiro MIZUDE, Kazuma OGAWA, Sho TSUJIMOTO.
Application Number | 20170155792 15/356738 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58777607 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170155792 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MIZUDE; Kazuhiro ; et
al. |
June 1, 2017 |
IMAGE READING APPARATUS
Abstract
An image reading apparatus comprising: an original reading unit
configured to scan originals placed on an original table in batch
by a batch-scan to read an image of each of the originals; a
cropping unit configured to crop an image of each original from an
image obtained by the batch-scan; an image output unit configured
to attach a filename to image data of the cropped image of each
original and output each image data in a new folder or an existing
folder; and a control unit configured to control the original
reading unit, the cropping unit, and the image output unit, wherein
the control unit is capable of processing images of multiple
originals cropped by more than one batch-scan as a series of image
data, and controlling the image output unit in at least such a way
that a series of filenames is attached to the series of image data
according to a predetermined rule, the series of image data is
output into the same folder, or the series of image data is stored
in association with one another.
Inventors: |
MIZUDE; Kazuhiro; (Sakai
City, JP) ; OGAWA; Kazuma; (Sakai City, JP) ;
FUJISAKI; Tatsuya; (Sakai City, JP) ; TSUJIMOTO;
Sho; (Sakai City, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha |
Sakai City |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
58777607 |
Appl. No.: |
15/356738 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/00748 20130101;
G06K 9/4604 20130101; H04N 1/3208 20130101; H04N 1/3878 20130101;
H04N 1/32128 20130101; G06K 9/00463 20130101; H04N 1/38 20130101;
H04N 2201/0081 20130101; G06K 9/00456 20130101; H04N 1/3873
20130101; H04N 2201/0094 20130101; G06K 2209/01 20130101; H04N
1/0044 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04N 1/32 20060101
H04N001/32; H04N 1/38 20060101 H04N001/38; H04N 1/387 20060101
H04N001/387; G06K 9/00 20060101 G06K009/00; H04N 1/00 20060101
H04N001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 1, 2015 |
JP |
2015-234884 |
Dec 1, 2015 |
JP |
2015-234888 |
Apr 1, 2016 |
JP |
2016-074241 |
Claims
1. An image reading apparatus comprising: an original reading unit
configured to scan originals placed on an original table in batch
by a batch-scan to read an image of each of the originals; a
cropping unit configured to crop an image of each original from an
image obtained by the batch-scan; an image output unit configured
to attach a filename to image data of the cropped image of each
original and output each image data in a new folder or an existing
folder; and a control unit configured to control the original
reading unit, the cropping unit, and the image output unit, wherein
the control unit is capable of processing images of multiple
originals cropped by more than one batch-scan as a series of image
data, and controlling the image output unit in at least such a way
that a series of filenames is attached to the series of image data
according to a predetermined rule, the series of image data is
output into the same folder, or the series of image data is stored
in association with one another.
2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
control unit attaches filenames including the same time information
to the series of image data.
3. The image reading apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
time information concerns a time of the first batch-scan.
4. The image reading apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
control unit controls the image output unit in such a way that a
new folder is created and each image data is output into this
folder, the folder having a folder name including time information
concerning a time of the first batch-scan.
5. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
image output unit transmits image data to an external transmission
destination designated beforehand, and the control unit transmits a
series of image data to the same transmission destination.
6. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising: an operation key configured to receive designation
indicating that a type of each original is a business card or not;
and a character recognition unit configured to perform character
recognition to a cropped image of each original which is designated
as a business card, and to output character data, wherein the image
output unit outputs the character data, in place of or along with
image data of each original, with a filename being attached
thereto, and the control unit controls the image output unit in
such a way that filenames corresponding to the image data of each
original and the character data output as a result of the character
recognition performed to the original by the character recognition
unit are attached.
7. The image reading apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
operation key receives a selection of whether or not image data of
each original designated as a business card is output along with
character data output from the character recognition unit, and the
control unit controls whether to output only the character data or
to output the image data along with the character data according to
the selection.
8. The image reading apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
control unit controls the image output unit in such a way that, for
each original designated as a business card, a filename is attached
using the character data output from the character recognition
unit.
9. The image reading apparatus according to claim 6, further
comprising: a display unit that displays an image of each of
scanned originals as a preview, wherein the display unit displays
each scanned original on the display unit for a preview in the case
where an original which has been designated as a business card is
to be read, the operation key receives a selection of whether each
of the scanned originals is subjected to character recognition by
the character recognition unit or the scan of each original is
redone, at the point or after the point at which each original is
displayed as a preview, and the control unit causes the character
recognition unit to perform character recognition or causes the
original reading unit to redo a scan of each original.
10. The image reading apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
original reading unit reads an image of each original on the basis
of a plurality of reading conditions according to a type of an
original, and the control unit changes the image reading conditions
to a setting optimum for reading a business card, when the
operation key receives a designation indicating that the original
is a business card.
11. The image reading apparatus according to claim 9, further
comprising: an original cover provided to be openable with respect
to the original table and holds an original placed on the original
table; and a cover open-and-close sensor configured to detect an
open and closed state of the original cover, wherein when an
original designated as a business card is to be read, the control
unit displays, on the display unit, an operation guide indicating
that the original is scanned with the original cover being left
open, and in the case where the cover open-and-close sensor detects
that the original cover is closed, the control unit inhibits a
scan.
12. The image reading apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
original reading unit detects an edge of an original designated as
a business card, the character recognition unit has a correction
function for correcting skew of each original in such a way that a
character to be recognized is erected, on the basis of the
direction of the detected edge and features of a character, and the
skew correction function is enabled to be validated or invalidated
according to a setting.
13. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
control unit is capable of selectively executing a single
multi-crop process in which images of originals read by one
batch-scan are handled as a series of image data and output so as
to be distinguishable from image data read by other batch-scans and
a continuous multi-crop process in which images of originals read
by more than one batch-scan are handled as a series of image
data.
14. The image reading apparatus according to claim 13, further
comprising a display unit configured to display a number of
originals read by each batch-scan and the total number of originals
read by a sequence of batch-scans, when the continuous multi-crop
process is executed.
15. The image reading apparatus according to claim 14, wherein,
when the continuous multi-crop process is executed, the control
unit displays an operation key that receives an instruction to
start the next scan on the display unit every time each batch-scan
is executed, and when the operation key is operated, the control
unit executes the next batch-scan to acquire image data of each
original, and handles the acquired image data and the image data
obtained by the previous batch-scan as a series of image data.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is related to Japanese Patent Application
Nos. 2015-234884 and 2015-234888 which are filed on Dec. 1, 2015
and No. 2016-74241 filed on Apr. 1, 2016, whose priorities are
claimed and the disclosure of which are incorporated by reference
in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus
having a multi-crop function.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] There has been known a multi-crop function in which, in the
case where small size originals, such as business cards, postcards,
or photos, are to be read, multiple originals are placed on an
original table and scanned and read in batch to crop an image
corresponding to each original. There has also been known an image
reading apparatus having such multi-crop function.
[0006] For example, there has been proposed an apparatus which
detects the number of originals and their respective positions by
pre-scan, scans the originals one by one, and displays how many
originals have been scanned before the currently-scanned original,
so as to enable a user to recognize an image reading state (see
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-219085, for
example). There has also been proposed an apparatus that controls
the order of cropping an image according to the original size of a
cropped image, the position of the original, a size of a printing
sheet used to print the original, and the type of the printing
sheet, even if originals of different sizes and different types are
simultaneously placed (see Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication
No. 2007-013378, for example). There has also been proposed an
apparatus that compares the input number of originals and the
detected number of originals, and displays the comparison result,
in order to correctly detect the number of images that the user
desires to crop and to read these images (see Japanese Unexamined
Patent Publication No. 2007-020122, for example).
[0007] It is convenient that images of multiple originals which
have been read by a batch scan using a multi-crop function are
managed in association with one another. This is because these
originals are related to one another in most cases. When a user is
going to organize multiple business cards he/she got at a certain
event, it is convenient that these cards are read in batch by the
multi-crop function and stored in association with the name or date
of the event. The expected use for postcards is such that New
Year's cards of a certain year or postcards concerning
participation of a certain event are read in batch using the
multi-crop function. Another expected use is such that photos are
read in batch using the multi-crop function for each trip or each
event.
[0008] When there are a lot of originals to be read, it is
considered that these originals cannot be read by one batch scan.
In this case, it is convenient if the originals read by more than
one batch scan can be stored in association with one another. In
addition, it is also convenient if the relation of the originals
which have been read is recorded without a need of complicated
operation or process by a user.
[0009] In the case where more than one batch scan is to be
executed, it is not easy for an apparatus to appropriately
determine whether the image data read by a certain batch scan is
related to the image data read by the previous or next batch scan.
For example, it is supposed that a user causes an apparatus to read
multiple business cards that he/she got at a certain event by a
batch scan in order to organize these cards. It is also supposed
that the user intends to manage all of the business cards he/she
got as one group. In this case, the user's intention is to store
the image data read by each batch scan in association with the
image data read by the previous and next batch scans.
[0010] On the other hand, it may be the case where the user intends
to manage the business cards he/she got by type of business or
level of importance, for example. In this case, the user may
categorize the business cards by oneself and perform a batch scan
for each categorization. However, in general, the apparatus hardly
determines each categorization intended by the user, unless each
categorization has an image characteristic that can be defined
beforehand.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention is accomplished in view of the
foregoing circumstances, and provides an image reading apparatus
that, even when reading a lot of originals which have to be read by
more than one batch scan using a multi-crop function, can output
images of the originals in a manner by which the relation among the
images of the originals which have been read is easily recognized
without requiring a complicated operation or process.
[0012] The present invention provides an image reading apparatus
comprising: an original reading unit configured to scan originals
placed on an original table in batch by a batch-scan to read an
image of each of the originals; a cropping unit configured to crop
an image of each original from an image obtained by the batch-scan;
an image output unit configured to attach a filename to image data
of the cropped image of each original and output each image data in
a new folder or an existing folder; and a control unit configured
to control the original reading unit, the cropping unit, and the
image output unit, wherein the control unit is capable of
processing images of multiple originals cropped by more than one
batch-scan as a series of image data, and controlling the image
output unit in at least such a way that a series of filenames is
attached to the series of image data according to a predetermined
rule, the series of image data is output into the same folder, or
the series of image data is stored in association with one
another.
[0013] In the image reading apparatus according to the present
invention, the control unit enables to process images of multiple
originals cropped by more than one batch scan as a series of image
data, and controls the image output unit in at least such a way
that a series of filenames is attached to the series of image data
according to a predetermined rule, the series of image data is
output into the same folder, or the series of image data is stored
in association with one another. Therefore, even if a lot of
originals which have to be read by more than one batch scan are to
be read, the apparatus can output images of the originals in a
manner by which the relation among the images of the originals
which have been read is easily recognized without requiring a
complicated operation or process.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an appearance of a digital
multifunction peripheral shown as one example of an image reading
apparatus according to the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the
digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an appearance of an
original table and surrounding thereof in the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing the state in which an
original is placed at a predetermined position on the original
table shown in FIG. 3;
[0018] FIG. 5A is an explanatory view showing locations in the case
where A5, B5, and A4 originals are longitudinally placed on the
original table shown in FIG. 3;
[0019] FIG. 5B is an explanatory view showing locations in the case
where A5 to A3 originals are horizontally placed on the original
table shown in FIG. 3;
[0020] FIG. 5C is an explanatory view showing that, when originals
with sizes in AB series are placed on the original table shown in
FIG. 3, an original size detection unit detects the sizes
thereof;
[0021] FIG. 6A is an explanatory view showing locations in the case
where 5.5''.times.8.5'', B5, and 8.5''.times.11'' originals are
longitudinally placed on the original table shown in FIG. 3;
[0022] FIG. 6B is an explanatory view showing locations in the case
where originals with sizes in inch series and B5 original are
horizontally placed on the original table shown in FIG. 3;
[0023] FIG. 6C is an explanatory view showing that, when originals
in inch series and B5 original are placed on the original table
shown in FIG. 3, an original size detection unit detects the sizes
thereof;
[0024] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing presence or absence
(presence/absence) of each detection beam from the original size
detection unit according to the present invention (corresponding to
FIG. 5C);
[0025] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing presence/absence of
each detection beam from the original size detection unit according
to the present invention (corresponding to FIG. 6C);
[0026] FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing presence/absence of
each detection beam from the original size detection unit according
to the present invention when multiple originals are placed on the
original table (corresponding to later-described FIG. 19B);
[0027] FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing a reading-area
corresponding to maximum size originals respectively shown in FIGS.
5B and 6B;
[0028] FIG. 11A is a first explanatory view showing an operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0029] FIG. 11B is a second explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0030] FIG. 11C is a third explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0031] FIG. 11D is a fourth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0032] FIG. 11E is a fifth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0033] FIG. 11F is a sixth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0034] FIG. 11G is a seventh explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0035] FIG. 11H is an eighth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0036] FIG. 11I is a ninth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a standard size original is to be read;
[0037] FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing the state in which
image data of the standard size original, which has been read, is
stored in an USB memory connected to the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0038] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a
control unit when the digital multifunction peripheral according to
the present invention reads a standard size original;
[0039] FIG. 14A is a first explanatory view showing an operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0040] FIG. 14B is a second explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0041] FIG. 14C is a third explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0042] FIG. 14D is a fourth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0043] FIG. 14E is a fifth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0044] FIG. 14F is a sixth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0045] FIG. 15 is an explanatory view showing the state in which
multiple originals for a multi-crop scan are placed on the original
table shown in FIG. 3;
[0046] FIG. 16A is a seventh explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0047] FIG. 16B is an eighth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0048] FIG. 16C is a ninth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a single multi-crop scan is executed;
[0049] FIG. 17A is an explanatory view showing the state in which
image data of the original which has been read by the single
multi-crop scan is stored in an USB memory connected to the digital
multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0050] FIG. 17B is an explanatory view showing another embodiment
in which image data of the original which has been read by the
single multi-crop scan is stored in an USB memory connected to the
digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0051] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the
control unit while in the single multi-crop scan;
[0052] FIG. 19A is an explanatory view showing one embodiment in
which the original size detection unit according to the present
invention detects multiple originals placed on the original
table;
[0053] FIG. 19B is an explanatory view showing another embodiment
in which the original size detection unit according to the present
invention detects multiple originals placed on the original table
(corresponding to FIG. 9);
[0054] FIG. 20A is a first explanatory view showing an operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0055] FIG. 20B is a second explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0056] FIG. 21 is an explanatory view showing the state in which
multiple originals for the first batch scan are placed on the
original table shown in FIG. 3;
[0057] FIG. 22A is a third explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0058] FIG. 22B is a fourth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0059] FIG. 22C is a fifth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0060] FIG. 23 is an explanatory view showing the state in which
multiple originals for the second batch scan are placed on the
original table shown in FIG. 3;
[0061] FIG. 24A is a sixth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0062] FIG. 24B is a seventh explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0063] FIG. 24C is an eighth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0064] FIG. 24D is a ninth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0065] FIG. 24E is a tenth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a continuous multi-crop scan is executed;
[0066] FIG. 25A is an explanatory view showing the state in which
image data of originals which have been read by more than one batch
scan is stored in an USB memory connected to the digital
multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0067] FIG. 25B is an explanatory view showing another embodiment
in which image data of originals which have been read by more than
one batch scan is stored in an USB memory connected to the digital
multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0068] FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the
control unit while in the continuous multi-crop scan;
[0069] FIG. 27A is an explanatory view showing an example of an
image obtained by reading multiple originals having light tone
edges with the original cover being left open;
[0070] FIG. 27B is an explanatory view showing an example of an
image obtained by reading multiple originals having dark tone edges
with the original cover being closed;
[0071] FIG. 28A is a first explanatory view showing an operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0072] FIG. 28B is a second explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0073] FIG. 28C is a third explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0074] FIG. 28D is a fourth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0075] FIG. 29A is a first explanatory view showing another
embodiment of an operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0076] FIG. 29B is a second explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0077] FIG. 29C is a third explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0078] FIG. 29D is a fourth explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0079] FIG. 29E is a fifth explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0080] FIG. 29F is a sixth explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0081] FIG. 29G is a seventh explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
[0082] FIG. 29H is an eighth explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed;
and
[0083] FIG. 29I is a ninth explanatory view showing another
embodiment of the operation procedure of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when a photo multi-crop is executed.
[0084] FIG. 30A is a first explanatory view showing an operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0085] FIG. 30B is a second explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0086] FIG. 30C is a third explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0087] FIG. 30D is a fourth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0088] FIG. 30E is a fifth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0089] FIG. 30F is a sixth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0090] FIG. 30G is a seventh explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0091] FIG. 30H is an eighth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0092] FIG. 30I is a ninth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0093] FIG. 30J is a tenth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0094] FIG. 30K is an eleventh explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0095] FIG. 30L is a twelfth explanatory view showing the operation
procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0096] FIG. 30M is a thirteenth explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0097] FIG. 30N is a fourteenth explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0098] FIG. 30O is a fifteenth explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0099] FIG. 30P is a sixteenth explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0100] FIG. 30Q is a seventeenth explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0101] FIG. 30R is an eighteenth explanatory view showing the
operation procedure of the digital multifunction peripheral shown
in FIG. 1 when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0102] FIG. 30S is a first explanatory view showing a preview
operation of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0103] FIG. 30T is a second explanatory view showing the preview
operation of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1
when a card multi-crop scan is executed;
[0104] FIG. 31 is an explanatory view showing the state in which
image data of the original read by the card multi-crop scan is
stored in an USB memory connected to the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0105] FIG. 32 is an explanatory view showing another embodiment in
which image data of the original read by the card multi-crop scan
is stored in an USB memory connected to the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1;
[0106] FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the
control unit in the card multi-crop scan (first scan); and
[0107] FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the
control unit in the card multi-crop scan (more than one scan).
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0108] The present invention will be described below in more detail
with reference to the drawings. Note that the description below
should be considered in all aspects as illustrative and not
restrictive of the present invention.
<<Outline of Image Reading Apparatus>>
[0109] A specific example of an image reading apparatus according
to the present embodiment will be described.
[0110] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a
digital multifunction peripheral shown as one example of the image
reading apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block
diagram showing the configuration of the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1.
[0111] The digital multifunction peripheral 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and
2 includes an image reading apparatus 11 according to the present
embodiment and an image forming apparatus 12 performing printing.
The digital multifunction peripheral 10 is connectable to an
unillustrated network through a communication unit 45. The digital
multifunction peripheral 10 can transmit image data of an original
read by the image reading apparatus 11 to an external device
through the network. The digital multifunction peripheral 10 can
receive print data from an external device through the network and
print the received print data by the image forming apparatus 12.
The digital multifunction peripheral 10 has a copying function, a
printer function, a scanner function, an image filing function, and
a facsimile function.
[0112] An original cover 33 shown in FIG. 1 also serves as an
automatic document feeder. A user can manually open the original
cover 33 upward. When used as the automatic document feeder, the
original cover 33 is closed. When the original cover 33 is opened
upward, an original table (not shown in FIG. 1) provided below the
original cover 33 appears. The user can place an original on the
original table and cause the image reading apparatus 11 to read the
original. A cover opening-and-closing sensor 35 (see FIG. 2)
detects whether the original cover is opened or closed.
[0113] The original table is formed from transparent glass, and
below the original table, a scanning unit 21 that is a mechanism
for scanning an original while moving and an original reading unit
23 that is an electronic circuit for reading an image of an
original scanned by the scanning unit 21 are provided. In the
present embodiment, the original reading unit is original reading
circuitry including a linear image sensor.
[0114] The image reading apparatus 11 also includes an image
processing circuit. The image processing circuit includes a
cropping unit 25 that crops an image of an original from a
reading-area which is scanned by the scanning unit 21 and read by
the original reading unit 23.
[0115] The image reading apparatus 11 also includes an image output
unit 27. The image output unit 27 gives a filename to image data,
which has been read, and stores the resultant image data in a
storage unit 43 serving as a memory or an USB memory connected to a
later-described USB connector 71 (shown in FIG. 3 described later).
Alternatively, the image output unit 27 sends the resultant image
data to the image forming apparatus 12 or to an external device
through the network by the communication unit 45. Note that the
communication unit 45 is communication circuitry which can perform
communication through a public telephone line, besides LAN or WAN.
The transmission/reception of image data through the public
telephone line corresponds to the facsimile function.
[0116] Notably, the image reading apparatus 11 includes a character
recognition unit 29. The character recognition unit 29 recognizes a
character in a cropped image of each card and outputs character
data while a card multi-crop scan described later is executed. The
image output unit 27 attaches a filename to the character data of
each card output from the character recognition unit 29 and stores
the resultant character data into the storage unit 43 or an USB
memory through the USB connector 71 in place of or along with the
image data of the card.
[0117] An original size detection unit 31 detects the size of an
original set on the original table or on the automatic document
feeder. Note that a detectable original size is limited to sizes of
predetermined types (the above-mentioned standard size).
[0118] As shown in FIG. 1, an operation display unit 51 including a
liquid crystal display panel and a touch panel is provided in front
of the original table. In FIG. 2, the liquid crystal display panel
corresponds to a display unit 51a. The touch panel covering the
display surface of the liquid crystal display panel corresponds to
an operation key 51b.
[0119] The control unit 41 performs controls of each component,
such as the detection of the size of an original by the original
size detection unit 31, scanning of an original by the scanning
unit 21, reading of an image by the original reading unit 23, a
display on the display unit 51a, and reception of an operation by
the operation key 51b. The control unit 41 is control circuitry
including a CPU for controlling the components mentioned above.
[0120] The image forming apparatus 12 includes an image receiving
unit 61 that receives an image read by the image reading apparatus
11 or image data sent from an apparatus other than the image
reading apparatus 11. The image forming apparatus 12 also includes
an image forming unit 63 that forms a visible image on the basis of
the acquired image data. The image forming unit 63 forms an image
with a known method such as an electrophotographic method or an ink
jet method. A sheet feed unit 65 feeds a printing sheet to the
image forming unit 63, and a sheet conveyance unit 67 conveys the
printing sheet fed from the sheet feed unit 65 to the image forming
unit 63. The image forming unit 63 transfers the formed image onto
a conveyed printing sheet, fuses the image onto the printing sheet,
and outputs the resultant sheet onto a sheet output unit 69.
[0121] The operation of the image forming apparatus may be
controlled by an exclusive control unit not shown in FIG. 2.
However, in the present embodiment, the control unit 41 also
performs the controls described above.
<<Original Table and Detection of Original Size>>
[0122] The original table and the detection of the size of an
original placed on the original table in the present embodiment
will be described below.
[0123] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the
original table and surrounding thereof in the digital multifunction
peripheral shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 3, the original cover 33 is
opened upward, and the original table 20 is provided below the
original cover 33. The original size detection unit 31 is mounted
at the far side of the original table 20. When the original cover
33 is opened, i.e., when the cover opening-and-closing sensor 35
detects the open state, the original size detection unit 31 is
located above the original table 20. On the other hand, when the
original cover 33 is closed, the original size detection unit 31 is
pressed by the original cover 33 to be moved downward. Note that
FIG. 3 shows only a part of the original size detection unit 31.
The other part of the original size detection unit 31 is disposed
at an unillustrated portion below the original table 20. The
function of the original size detection unit 31 including the
unillustrated part will be described later.
[0124] The operation display unit 51 and the USB connector 71 are
provided on the near side of the original table 20. The USB
connector 71 is a connector for connecting an USB device such as an
USB memory to the digital multifunction peripheral 10. The digital
multifunction peripheral 10 has a function of reading an original
placed on the original table 20 and storing the image data of the
original, which has been read, into an USB memory connected to the
USB connector 71.
[0125] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing the state in which an
original 20b is placed on a predetermined position of the original
table 20 shown in FIG. 3. A user places the original onto the
original table 20 with a portion to be read facing downward. The
back left corner of the original table 20 serves as a reference
position when the original 20b is placed, and is provided with a
corner mark 20a for allowing a user to recognize the reference
position.
[0126] The original reading unit 23 is circuitry including a linear
image sensor in the present embodiment, and the reading direction
along a line of the linear image sensor is along a direction
(hereinafter referred to as a main scanning direction) indicated by
an arrow M in FIG. 4. The scanning unit 21 moves in a direction
orthogonal to the main scanning direction, that is, a direction
(hereinafter referred to as a sub-scanning direction) indicated by
an arrow S in FIG. 4.
[0127] FIG. 5A is an explanatory view showing locations when A5,
B5, and A4 originals are placed on the original table 20. In this
case, a longitudinal direction means a direction in which a short
side of a rectangular original extends along the sub-scanning
direction. The user places an original in such a way to align the
top corner of the original with the corner mark 20a, whatever size
it has. Further, FIG. 5B is an explanatory view showing locations
when A5 to A3 originals are placed on the original table 20. In
this case, a lateral direction means a direction in which a long
side of an original extends along the sub-scanning direction. The
user places an original in such a way to align the top corner of
the original with the corner mark 20a, whatever size it has.
[0128] FIG. 5C is an explanatory view showing the state in which,
when originals in AB series are placed on the original table 20,
the original size detection unit 31 detects the size of the
originals.
[0129] The original size detection unit 31 includes seven
light-emitting elements D01 to D07 arranged along the sub-scanning
direction. Each of the light-emitting elements D01 to D07 emits
light obliquely downward to the near side from top at the far side
of the original table 20. The emitted light passes through the
original table 20 made of transparent glass from top to bottom. The
emitted light then passes through a slit formed below the original
table 20 at the near side, and reaches a corresponding
light-receiving element.
[0130] Seven slits and seven light-receiving elements are arranged
along the sub-scanning direction so as to correspond to the
light-emitting elements D01 to D07. The arrangement relation of a
set of a light-emitting element, a slit, and a light-receiving
element as viewed from top is illustrated at the right part in FIG.
5C. This arrangement relation is illustrated as enclosed by a
rectangle.
[0131] Infrared light is radiated toward the near side with a
certain spread from the light-emitting element 31a composed of an
infrared light-emitting diode. Out of the infrared light, a beam of
infrared light radiated toward the top surface 31b of the original
table passes through the original table 20 from the top surface to
the bottom surface while refracting, and enters the light-receiving
element 31d through the slit 31c formed below the original table 20
at the near side. The slit 31c is formed to block infrared light
emitted from the adjacent light-emitting element.
[0132] Seven infrared beams emitted from seven light-emitting
elements toward the corresponding seven light-receiving elements
are illustrated by two-dot-chain lines in FIG. 5C. When an original
is placed on the original table 20, infrared beam is blocked by the
original at the portion where the original is placed, and thus, the
infrared beam does not reach the light-receiving element. In the
case where the image reading apparatus 11 is in a stand-by state
and the cover opening-and-closing sensor 35 detects the closed
state of the original cover 33, the control unit 41 sequentially
reads whether or not an infrared beam reaches the seven
light-receiving elements in the original size detection unit 31.
Each infrared beam detects the presence/absence of an original on a
plurality of different locations. The size of an original placed on
the original table 20 can be determined by a pattern indicating
whether or not each infrared beam reaches the corresponding
light-receiving element. Each infrared beam is referred to as a
detection beam below in some cases. When the cover
opening-and-closing sensor 35 detects the closed state, the control
unit 41 stops reading of each infrared beam, and keeps the size of
the original based on the last read detection beam. When the cover
opening-and-closing sensor 35 detects the open state, the control
unit 41 sequentially reads each infrared beam again.
[0133] FIGS. 5A to 5C show the determination of each size in AB
series, and FIGS. 6A to 6C show the determination of B5 size and
sizes in inch series corresponding to the sizes in FIGS. 5A to 5C.
Notably, which one of a size in AB series and a size in inch series
is detected is selectively set according to the situation of a
customer using the digital multifunction peripheral 10.
[0134] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing patterns of
presence/absence of detection beams corresponding to each size (see
FIG. 5C) of an original in AB series. In FIG. 7, items D01 to D07
in the horizontal direction indicate whether or not an infrared
beam is detected by the light-receiving element corresponding to
the light-emitting element in FIG. 5C. The items in the vertical
direction in FIG. 7 indicate sizes. A circle (0) in FIG. 7
indicates that a detection beam reaches a light-receiving element,
that is, a detection beam is present. A cross mark (X) in FIG. 7
indicates that a detection beam does not reach a light-receiving
element, that is, a detection beam is not present.
[0135] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing patterns of
presence/absence of detection beams corresponding to each size in
inch series and B5 size (see FIG. 6C).
[0136] FIG. 9 shows a pattern of presence/absence of detection
beams different from any patterns in FIGS. 7 and 8. As described
later, when the detection pattern in FIG. 9 which does not
correspond to any one of standard size originals is obtained, it
may be determined that multiple originals 20 are placed on the
original table 20, and a multi-crop scan may be performed.
<<Reading-Area of Original>>
[0137] A reading-area from which an image of an original is read by
the original reading unit 23 will be described.
[0138] The control unit 41 determines a reading area, i.e. an area
which should be read by the original reading unit 23 on the basis
of an original size detected by the original size detection unit
31. As shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, the reading-area
corresponds to an area where an original is placed on the original
table 20.
[0139] FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing a reading-area
corresponding to the maximum original size, that is, A3 size and
11''.times.17'' size, shown in FIGS. 5B and 6B respectively. As
shown in FIG. 10, an A3 size has an area with a length of 297 mm in
the main scanning direction and 420 mm in the sub-scanning
direction. A 11''.times.17'' size has an area with a length of
279.4 mm in the main scanning direction and 431.8 mm in the
sub-scanning direction. As described above, the 11''.times.17''
size is slightly smaller in the main scanning direction and
slightly larger in the sub-scanning direction than the A3 size.
[0140] Strictly speaking, a reading-area is determined to be
somewhat smaller than an original size so as to form a margin of
about 1 to 10 mm around each original. This is to prevent an edge
of an original from appearing on the read image as a shadow.
<<Operation Procedure for Reading Standard Size
Original>>
[0141] Subsequently, one example of an operation for reading an
image of an original which has an ordinary standard size and is
placed on the original table 20 will be described. While the
present invention relates to a multi-crop scan, the example of the
operation for reading an ordinary original will be described first,
which facilitates understanding of the features of the present
invention relating to a multi-crop scan.
[0142] FIGS. 11A to 11I are explanatory views showing a display on
the operation display unit 51 and an operation procedure required
to be performed by a user when the digital multifunction peripheral
10 reads a standard size original.
[0143] FIG. 11A shows one example of an operation screen displayed
on the operation display unit 51 while the image reading apparatus
11 is in a stand-by mode. Operation keys (operation buttons)
concerning various functions of the digital multifunction
peripheral 10 including the image reading apparatus 11 are
displayed on the operation screen. When the user touches these
operation keys, he/she can execute various functions. Out of these
functions, the case where an original is read and the read image is
stored in an USB memory connected to the USB connector 71 will be
described as one example of an operation procedure for reading an
original.
[0144] To read an original and store the image data thereof in the
USB memory, the user touches the operation key of "Scan to HDD/USB"
on the operation screen shown in FIG. 11A (see FIG. 11B). The
fingers illustrated in FIG. 11B indicate the operation of the user
touching the operation key of "Scan to HDD/USB" with his/her finger
F. In the description below, the user's touch operation on
operation keys is similarly indicated by using the illustration of
fingers.
[0145] In response to the operation shown in FIG. 11B, the control
unit 41 displays the operation screen shown in FIG. 11C on the
operation display unit 51. Operation keys concerning the setting of
reading, such as "File Name", "Color Mode", "Resolution", "File
Format", "Original", and "Exposure", are disposed on the operation
screen shown in FIG. 11C. A "CA" key for resetting the setting and
a "Start" key for starting the reading operation are also
disposed.
[0146] The "File Name" is the operation key used by the user to
designate a file name of image data to be stored in the USB memory.
The "Color Mode" is the operation key for selecting in which one of
the modes of color, gray scale, and monochrome the original should
be read. The "Resolution" is the operation key for selecting
resolution in reading. The "Format" is the operation key for
selecting a format of the image data to be output, such as PDF,
TIFF, or JPEG. The "Original" is the operation key for designating
an original size or a double-side original by a user. The
"Exposure" is the operation key for selecting exposure in reading
an original. The user can perform settings using these operation
keys, as needed.
[0147] When the user places a standard size original at a
predetermined position on the original table 20, the original size
detection unit 31 outputs a detection pattern according to the size
of the original by seven detection beams. The control unit 41
determines the size of the original placed on the original table 20
on the basis of the detection pattern.
[0148] When the user touches the "Start" key on the operation
screen shown in FIG. 11C (see FIG. 11D), the control unit 41 starts
the reading operation of the original in response to this
operation. The control unit 41 determines a reading-area according
to the original size and reads the original by controlling the
scanning unit 21 and the original reading unit 23. The control unit
41 also displays a message of "Scanning original. (Pg. No. 1)" and
an operation key of "Cancel Scan" on the operation display unit 51
during the reading. The "(Pg. No. 1)" in the message indicates that
the first page is currently read.
[0149] When the reading of the first original is finished, the
control unit 41 then displays, on the operation display unit 51, a
screen for asking the user to select whether to end the reading, to
change the setting for the next reading, or to start the next
reading, as shown in FIG. 11F.
[0150] When the user then opens the original cover 33 and places
the next original on the original table 20, the original size
detection unit 31 outputs a pattern of detection beams according to
the size of the original which is newly set. When the user presses
the "Start" key with this state (see FIG. 11G), the control unit 41
starts the reading of the next original in response to this
operation. The control unit 41 causes the image reading unit 23 to
read the original in the reading-area determined based on the
original size. While reading, the control unit 41 displays the
message of "Scanning original." on the operation display unit 51 as
in FIG. 11E. However, during the second reading, "Pg. No. 2" is
displayed in place of "Pg. No. 1" in FIG. 11E to notify the user
that this is the second reading.
[0151] When the reading of the second original is finished, the
control unit 41 then displays the screen same as that in FIG. 11F
on the operation display unit 51 to ask the user to select whether
to end the reading, to change the setting for the next reading, or
to start the next reading.
[0152] When the user touches the operation key of "Read-End" (see
FIG. 11H), the control unit 41 stores the image data of the two
originals, which have been read, into the USB memory connected to
the USB connector 71. After the writing on the USB memory is
finished, the control unit 41 displays a message of "Originals have
been scanned. (Pg. No. 2)" on the operation display unit 51 (see
FIG. 11I).
[0153] As shown in FIG. 12, the image output unit 27 stores a PDF
file formed by combining two pages of the read original into one
file into the USB memory. The file name includes information of
date and time at which the originals are scanned and read. That is,
the part "20150123" in the file name of "image20150123_0918.pdf"
shown in FIG. 12 indicates the date of Jan. 23, 2015. The part
"0918" subsequent to the date indicates the time of 9:18.
<<Operation Procedure for Reading Standard Size
Original>>
[0154] The above-mentioned process in which the control unit 41
executes reading of an original will comprehensively be
described.
[0155] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the process executed by the
control unit when the digital multifunction peripheral 10 reads a
standard size original. Although the digital multifunction
peripheral 10 simultaneously performs other processes (for example,
an image forming process) in some cases, the description of such
processes will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 41
displays a screen for allowing a user to select the original
reading condition on the operation display unit 51 (step S11,
corresponding to FIGS. 11A to 11C), and waits until the original
size detection unit 31 detects an original placed on the original
table 20 (step S13).
[0156] After the original size detection unit 31 detects that an
original is placed on the original table 20 and the size of this
original (Yes in step S13), the control unit 41 validates the
reception of an operation on the "Start" key displayed on the
operation display unit 51 (step S15). Then, the control unit 41
waits until the "Start" key is pressed (step S17).
[0157] After the "Start" key is pressed (Yes in step S17,
corresponding to FIG. 11D), the control unit 41 determines a
reading-area of the original, and starts scanning and reading of
the original (step S19, corresponding to FIG. 11E). Every time a
single original is scanned, the control unit 41 asks the user to
select whether to perform the next reading or end the reading (step
S21, corresponding to FIG. 11F). When the "Start" key is pressed,
the control unit 41 performs next reading (loop of No in step S21,
corresponding to FIG. 11G).
[0158] On the other hand, when the "Read-End" key is pressed, the
control unit 41 ends the reading (Yes in step S21, corresponding to
FIG. 11H).
[0159] Then, the control unit 41 starts the transfer of the image
data of the original, which has been read, into the memory (step
S23). In the present embodiment, the image data is transferred to
the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71 through the image
output unit 27. However, this is only one example. In the case
where the copying function is selected, the image data is
transferred to the image forming apparatus 12 through the image
output unit 27. Note that the image data may temporarily be stored
in the storage unit 43 as a buffer. In the case where the scanner
function is selected, the image data may be transmitted to an
external device connected to a network through the communication
unit 45. In the case where the image filing function is selected,
the image data is transferred to the storage unit 43 and stored
therein. In the case where the facsimile function is selected, the
image data is transmitted through the communication unit 45 and a
public line.
[0160] After the transfer of the image data is completed (Yes in
step S25), the control unit 41 notifies the user of the completion
of the transfer (step S27, corresponding to FIG. 11I), and then,
ends the process.
<<Operation Procedure of Multi-Crop Scan>>
[0161] Next, an operation procedure of a multi-crop scan according
to the present embodiment will be described.
[0162] FIGS. 14A to 14F, 15, and 16A to 16C are explanatory views
showing the operation procedure when the digital multifunction
peripheral 10 performs a single multi-crop scan.
[0163] When performing the multi-crop scan, the digital
multifunction peripheral 10 which has been in the stand-by mode
reaches the screen in FIG. 14A which is similar to the screen in
FIG. 11C through the operation screen in FIG. 11A and the operation
screen in FIG. 11B. When the user touches an "Others" key on the
screen in FIG. 14A (see FIG. 14B), the control unit 41 displays the
screen in FIG. 14C on the operation display unit 51 in response to
this operation. A "Multi-crop" key is displayed as one of other
functions on the screen in FIG. 14C. Notably, while a "Photo
Multi-crop" key and a "Card Multi-crop" key also relate to the
present invention, the functions thereof will be described later,
and the "Multi-crop" will firstly be described. Note that a "Photo
Multi-crop" key which also relates to the present embodiment will
be described later, and the "Multi-crop" will firstly be described.
Note that, in the present specification, the "Photo Multi-crop" is
also referred to as "inversion multi-crop". On the other hand,
ordinary multi-crop is also referred to as "non-inversion
multi-crop".
[0164] When the user presses the "Multi-crop" key (see FIG. 14D),
the control unit 41 displays a check mark indicating that the
"Multi-crop" is selected on the "Multi-crop" key in response to the
operation in FIG. 14D. Then, the control unit 41 displays the
message of "Leave the automatic document feeder open and press
[Start] to scan." along with an "OK" key on the operation display
unit 51 (see FIG. 14E). When a standard size original is to be
read, the original cover 33, that is, the automatic document feeder
in the above message, is closed in principle. However, in the
multi-crop scan, the original is scanned with the original cover
being left open in order that the area outside of the original is
read as black with respect to the white or light tone base of the
original. The cropping unit 25 recognizes the border of each
original on the basis of the contrast between the light tone base
of the original and the black color of the area outside of the
original, and performs cropping.
[0165] When the user reads the message of "Leave the automatic
document feeder open and press [Start] to scan." and presses the
"OK" key (see FIG. 14F), the control unit 41 erases the message in
response to this operation.
[0166] The user arranges multiple originals, which are the objects
for the multi-crop scan, on the original table 20.
[0167] FIG. 15 is an explanatory view showing the state in which
four originals 20b for the multi-crop scan are placed on the
original table 20. The reference numerals 1 to 4 attached to the
respective originals indicate one example of the cropping order,
and these reference numerals correspond to serial numbers in
filenames described later.
[0168] When the user presses the "Start" key with the original
cover 33 being left open (see FIG. 16A), the control unit 41
determines the maximum area for the multi-crop scan as a
reading-area and causes the scanning unit 21 and the original
reading unit 23 to scan and read the four originals 20b in batch,
in response to the operation in FIG. 16A. While reading, the
control unit 41 displays a message of "Scanning original. (Pg. No.
1)" and an operation key of "Cancel Scan" on the operation display
unit 51 as shown in FIG. 16B. The "Pg. No. 1" in the message
indicates that the first batch scan is currently executed.
[0169] Notably, the control unit 41 can acquire the open state and
closed state of the original cover 33 by the cover
opening-and-closing sensor 35. Therefore, when the original cover
33 is closed, the control unit 41 may invalidate the "Start" key to
inhibit the start of the batch scan (first embodiment).
[0170] Alternatively, when the original cover 33 is closed, the
control unit 41 may display a message encouraging the user to open
the original cover 33 on the operation display unit 51 (second
embodiment).
[0171] Further, when the "Start" key is pressed with the original
cover 33 being closed, the control unit 41 may inhibit the start of
the batch scan, and at that time, display a message, which
encourages the user to open the original cover 33 and again press
the "Start" key, on the operation display unit 51 (third
embodiment).
<<Reading-Area for Multi-Crop Scan>>>
[0172] A reading-area of a standard size original is determined by
the control unit 41 on the basis of the original size detected by
the original size detection unit 31. However, when multiple
originals 20b are placed on the original table 20 with a space
therebetween as shown in FIG. 15, the original size detection unit
31 in the present embodiment is unable to precisely detect the size
of each original.
[0173] In view of this, when the multi-crop scan is selected by the
touch on the "Multi-crop" key, the control unit 41 performs the
control to disregard the original size detected by the original
size detection unit 31 and to read the maximum area readable by the
scanning unit 21 and the image reading unit 23. Specifically, the
control unit 41 determines the maximum readable area as a
reading-area, regardless of the detection by the original size
detection unit 31.
[0174] For example, in the present embodiment, the maximum original
size in AB series is A3 which has 297 mm in the main scanning
direction and 420 mm in the sub-scanning direction as shown in FIG.
10. This can be said to be the readable maximum area. More
specifically, in the case where a margin of 10 mm is formed around
an original, the reading-area has 277 mm, which is smaller than 297
mm by 20 mm in total at both ends, in the main scanning direction
and 400 mm, which is smaller than 420 mm by 20 mm in total at both
ends, in the sub-scanning direction. An image in the margin is not
read.
[0175] However, the margin is formed to prevent the edge of the
standard size original from being read, and when the multi-crop
scan is performed to multiple originals arranged as shown in FIG.
15, there is no point in forming a margin. Therefore, when the
multi-crop scan is selected, not the reading-area for A3 size but
the area for A3 size with no margin, that is, the area having 297
mm in the main scanning direction and 420 mm in the sub-scanning
direction, may be determined as a reading-area. In this way, the
control unit 41 determines, as a reading-area for the multi-crop
scan, an area larger than a reading-area in reading a standard size
original of A3 size which is the maximum original size detectable
by the original size detection unit (fourth embodiment).
[0176] Alternatively, in the case where the multi-crop is selected,
the digital multifunction peripheral 10, which selectively sets a
size of a standard size original in AB series and inch series, may
set 297 mm which corresponds to A3 size and is larger than
11''=279.4 mm that is the maximum original size in inch series, as
a reading-area in the main scanning direction. On the other hand,
in the sub-scanning direction, 17''=431.8 mm which is the maximum
original size in inch series larger than 420 mm of A3 size which is
the maximum original size in AB series may be set as a
reading-area. In such way, the control unit 41 may determine an
area larger than the reading-area of an A3 size which is the
maximum original size as a reading-area for the multi-crop scan
(fifth embodiment).
[0177] Alternatively, if an area larger than the above-mentioned
area can be read in either one or both of the main scanning
direction and the sub-scanning direction, the maximum area thereof
may be employed as a reading-area when the multi-crop is selected.
In such way, the control unit 41 may determine an area larger than
the reading-area of an A3 size which is the maximum original size
as a reading-area for the multi-crop scan (sixth embodiment).
<<Cropping Process of Original>>
[0178] When the multi-crop is selected, the cropping unit 25 crops
an image of each original from the image of multiple originals
which have been scanned in batch. In this case, the edge, that is,
the border between the original and the area outside of the
original, may be determined, supposing that the original has a
rectangular shape. The cropping unit 25 recognizes the border of
each original on the basis of the contrast between a light tone
base of the original and black color of the area outside of the
original and crops the image of each original. Therefore, it is
premised that there are no characters and images on the edge of the
original, and the edge of the original has a light tone base.
However, even if this premise is not locally established, an area
of each original can precisely be cropped on the basis of the
premise that the original has a rectangular shape.
[0179] From another point of view, if the premise that the edge of
the original has a light tone base at any positions is established,
the area of each original can precisely be cropped without
presupposing that the original has a rectangular shape.
<<Output of Image Data>>
[0180] After the batch scan is finished, the control unit 41 stores
the image data of four originals which have been read by the batch
scan and cropped by the cropping unit 25 into the USB memory
connected to the USB connector 71. After finishing the writing to
the USB memory, the control unit 41 displays a message of
"Originals have been scanned. (Pg. No. 1)" on the operation display
unit 51 (see FIG. 16C).
[0181] Notably, while the "multi-crop" is a function of performing
a batch scan only once (this function is referred to as single
multi-crop in the present specification) in the present embodiment,
a function of performing a batch scan more than once (this function
is referred to as continuous multi-crop in the present
specification) can be selected by another operation.
[0182] As shown in FIG. 17A, the image data corresponding to the
cropped four originals is stored in the USB memory as four files
stored in one folder. This folder is newly created when the files
are stored in the USB memory. The filename attached to each of the
four files includes information of the date and time at which the
originals are scanned in batch. The filename also includes
information indicating the relation among four files. The first
filename "image20150123_0921_0001.pdf" out of four files shown in
FIG. 17A will be described. The part "20150123" indicates the date
of Jan. 23, 2015, and the subsequent part "0921" indicates the time
of 9:21. Since the four files have been read by the batch scan,
they have the information of the same date and time. The files also
include serial numbers of 0001 to 0004 indicating the relation
thereof at the end of the filename of each file. Due to the serial
number attached to each filename, the user can easily recognize
that the image data is a series of image data.
[0183] In addition, the name of the folder storing these files
includes the information of the date and time at which the
originals are scanned in batch (seventh embodiment).
[0184] FIG. 17B is an explanatory view showing an embodiment
different from FIG. 17A. In FIG. 17A, the image data of each
original cropped through a batch scan is stored in a newly-created
folder. On the other hand, in FIG. 17B, each file is stored without
creating a folder. Note that the filenames of four image data
pieces include information of the date and time at which the
originals are scanned in batch, as in FIG. 17A. The filenames also
include serial numbers as information indicating the relation of
four files. Only from the filenames, the relation of four files is
recognized, since the filenames include the same date and same time
(eighth embodiment).
[0185] The serial number attached at the end of each file in FIGS.
17A and 17B is merely one example of the information indicating
relation. The information indicating relation may be other than the
serial number, such as an alphabet. The position where this
information is attached is not limited to the end of the filename.
For example, this information may be attached in the middle of the
filename, such as before or after the date information.
[0186] As still another embodiment, image data may be stored as
being associated with one another in a known linked list to enable
a user to recognize the relation of a series of image data (ninth
embodiment). The format is not limited to a linked list, and any
format is applicable, so long as multiple files can be stored in
association with one another.
[0187] Further, in FIG. 17A, the folder name and the filename have
the information of the same date and same time, which is somewhat
redundant. For example, the date information or time information
which is also included in the folder name or both of them may be
eliminated from the filename.
[0188] The present embodiment describes, as one example, the case
in which image data is stored in an USB memory. However, there can
be other embodiments. For example, in the case where image data is
transmitted to an external device connected through a network and
stored therein, a filename similar to the above may be attached, a
folder may newly be created, and the image data may be stored in
the folder, as in FIG. 17A. Alternatively, the image data may be
stored without creating a folder as in FIG. 17B.
<<Operation Procedure of Reading Original by Multi-Crop
Scan>>
[0189] The process in which the control unit 41 executes the
above-mentioned multi-crop scan will comprehensively be
described.
[0190] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the process executed by the
control unit when the multi-crop is selected. As shown in FIG. 18,
the control unit 41 displays a screen for allowing a user to select
the scanning condition and multi-crop on the operation display unit
51 (step S31, corresponding to FIGS. 14A to 14D). Then, the control
unit 41 requests the user to leave the original cover open
(corresponding to FIGS. 14E to 14F). The control unit 41 then waits
until multiple originals are arranged on the original table 20
(step S33, corresponding to FIG. 15) and the "Start" key is pressed
(step S35).
[0191] Although the original size detection unit 31 cannot
precisely detect the sizes of the originals arranged on the
original table 20, it can detect whether or not the originals are
placed on the original table 20.
[0192] When the "Start" key is pressed (Yes in step S35,
corresponding to FIG. 16A), the control unit 41 determines the
maximum readable area as a reading-area (step S37), and then,
starts scanning and reading of the originals (step S39,
corresponding to FIG. 16B). After finishing the reading (Yes in
step S41), the control unit 41 controls such that the cropping unit
25 crops the image data of each original (step S43).
[0193] Then, the control unit 41 starts the transfer of the image
data of the originals, which have been read, to a memory (step
S45). In the present embodiment, the image data is transferred to a
USB memory connected to the USB connector 71. However, this is
merely one example. In the multi-crop scan, if the copying function
is selected, the image data is transferred to the image forming
apparatus 12 through the image output unit 27, as in the case of a
standard size original. In the case where the scanner function is
selected, the image data may be transmitted to an external device
connected to a network through the communication unit 45. In the
case where the image filing function is selected, the image data is
transferred to the storage unit 43 and stored therein. In the case
where the facsimile function is selected, the image data is
transmitted through the communication unit 45 and a public
line.
[0194] After the transfer of the image data is completed (Yes in
step S45), the control unit notifies the user of the completion of
the transfer (step S47, corresponding to FIG. 16C), and then, ends
the process.
<<Function of Original Size Detection Unit in Multi-Crop
Scan>>
[0195] The original size detection unit 31 is supposed to detect a
standard size original. Therefore, when multiple originals are
arranged for the multi-crop scan, the original size detection unit
31 is unable to precisely detect the size of each original.
[0196] FIG. 19A is an explanatory view showing one embodiment in
which the original size detection unit 31 detects multiple
originals placed on the original table 20.
[0197] FIG. 19B is an explanatory view showing an embodiment
different from the embodiment in FIG. 19A.
[0198] In FIG. 19A, the original size detection unit 31 outputs
detection beams in a pattern same as that for a B4 size in FIG. 7.
However, the sizes of the originals placed on the original table 20
are different from B4 size. Further, the pattern of the detection
beams corresponding to FIG. 19B (FIG. 9 illustrates the pattern of
the detection beams corresponding to FIG. 19B) is different from
any of the patterns illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0199] In the embodiment described above, since the multi-crop is
selected, the control unit 41 determines the maximum readable area
as a reading-area, regardless of the detection beams obtained by
the original size detection unit 31.
[0200] As a modification, when the pattern of detection beams
corresponding to a B4 size is obtained as illustrated in FIG. 19A,
the control unit 41 may determine an A3 size which is somewhat
larger than the B4 size as a reading-area for the multi-crop scan.
Specifically, the control unit 41 determines a reading-area
corresponding to an original size at least somewhat larger than the
original size detected by the original size detection unit 31 as a
reading-area by a batch scan. This configuration enables the area
where the originals are arranged to be determined as a reading-area
and prevents unnecessary scan of an area having no originals (tenth
embodiment).
[0201] As another modification, when a pattern of detection beams
which can never be obtained from a standard size original is
obtained as shown in FIG. 19B, the control unit 41 may perform the
multi-crop scan. Particularly, this is the case where the beam from
the light-emitting element D04 is detected but the beams (from D05
to D07) for the size larger than that are not detected in FIG. 19B,
for example. In such case, the control unit 41 may determine that
multiple originals are arranged on the original table 20, and
perform the multi-crop scan. Specifically, the control unit 41
performs the multi-crop scan in the case where the detection
pattern by the original size detection unit 31 corresponds to none
of predetermined patterns for a standard size original.
Alternatively, the control unit 41 may display a message for asking
a user whether to execute the multi-crop scan on the operation
display unit 51 (eleventh embodiment).
[0202] In the multi-crop scan, the original size detection unit 31
is unable to precisely detect the size of an original, but can
detect whether or not an original is placed on the original table
20. Therefore, if the pattern of detection beams shows that there
is no original on the original table 20, the control unit 41 may
invalidate the "Start" key to prevent the start of the multi-crop
scan even if the "Start" key is pressed.
<<Embodiment of Performing Batch Scan More than
Once>>
[0203] FIGS. 20A, 20B, 21, 22A to 22C, 23, and 24A to 24E show an
operation procedure for reading originals by a batch scan performed
more than once by the continuous multi-crop scan of the digital
multifunction peripheral 10.
[0204] When the continuous multi-crop scan is to be executed in the
present embodiment, the "Multi-crop" is selected through the
screens shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 14A to 14F from the stand-by
state. Note that, in this stage, the single multi-crop is selected.
When the user then touches an "Original count" key on the screen
shown in FIG. 20A, the control unit 41 recognizes that the
continuous multi-crop is selected in response to this operation.
Then, the control unit 41 displays a check mark on the "Original
count" key to inform the user of the selection of the multi-crop
including an original count, that is, the selection of the
continuous multi-crop (see FIG. 20B).
[0205] In other words, the "Multi-crop" key receives the selection
of the single multi-crop process, while the "Original count" key
receives the selection of the continuous multi-crop process. In the
present embodiment, the continuous multi-crop is selected in
combination of the "Multi-crop" key and the "Original count" key.
However, in another embodiment, a "single multi-crop" key and a
"continuous multi-crop key" may be prepared as different operation
keys, and either one of them may be selected.
[0206] The user arranges multiple originals which are the objects
for the multi-crop scan on the original table 20.
[0207] FIG. 21 is an explanatory view illustrating the state in
which four (1 to 4) originals 20b are placed on the original table
20 for the multi-crop scan as in FIG. 15.
[0208] When the user presses the "Start" key (see FIG. 22A), the
control unit 41 determines a reading-area for the multi-crop scan
and causes the scanning unit 21 and the original reading unit 23 to
read the four (1 to 4) originals 20b by a batch scan, in response
to this operation. While reading, the control unit 41 displays the
message of "Scanning original. (Pg. No. 1)" and the operation key
of "Cancel scan" as shown in FIG. 22B. The "(Pg. No. 1)" in the
message indicates that this is the first batch scan.
[0209] After the first batch scan is finished, the cropping unit 25
crops images corresponding to 1 to 4 originals. The control unit 41
displays operation keys of "Read-End", "Change setting", and
"Start" along with a message of "4 originals have been scanned.
(Total: 4 pages)" on the operation display unit 51, on the basis of
the cropping of the originals by the cropping unit 25, to encourage
the user to do the next operation (see FIG. 22C).
[0210] When the user arranges four (5 to 8) originals which are the
objects for the next multi-crop scan on the original table 20 (see
FIG. 23) and presses the "Start" key (see FIG. 24A), the control
unit 41 starts the next batch scan in response to this operation.
Specifically, the control unit 41 determines a reading-area for the
multi-crop scan and causes the scanning unit 21 and the original
reading unit 23 to read the four originals 20b by a batch scan.
While reading, the control unit 41 displays the message of
"Scanning original. (Pg. No. 2)" and the operation key of "Cancel
scan" as shown in FIG. 24B. The "(Pg. No. 2)" in the message
indicates that this is the second batch scan.
[0211] The control unit 41 handles the image data obtained by the
first batch scan and the image data obtained by the second batch
scan as a series of image data.
[0212] After the second batch scan is finished, the cropping unit
25 crops images corresponding to four (5 to 8) originals. The
control unit 41 displays operation keys of "Read-End", "Change
setting", and "Start" along with a message of "4 originals have
been scanned. (Total: 8 pages)" on the operation display unit 51,
on the basis of the cropping of the originals by the cropping unit
25 (see FIG. 24C).
[0213] The message of "4 originals have been scanned." indicates
that there are four originals read by the second batch scan, and
the part "(Total: 8 pages)" indicates that eight originals in total
have been read by a sequence of batch scans starting from the first
batch scan.
[0214] In this way, the control unit 41 displays the number of
originals cropped by each batch scan and the total number of
originals cropped from the first batch scan on the operation
display unit 51. The control unit 41 makes these displays at every
batch scan.
[0215] When the user touches the operation key of "Read-End" (see
FIG. 24D), the control unit 41 stores the image data of the eight
originals in total, which have been read and cropped by two batch
scans so far, into the USB memory connected to the USB connector
71. After the writing on the USB memory is finished, the control
unit 41 displays the message of "Originals have been scanned (Pg.
No. 2)" on the operation display unit 51 (see FIG. 24E).
[0216] As shown in FIG. 25A, the control unit 41 stores the image
data corresponding to cropped eight originals in total into the USB
memory as eight files stored in one folder. The filename attached
to each of the eight files includes information of the date and
time at which the first batch scan is executed. The filename also
includes information indicating the relation of eight files. The
first filename "image20150123_0925_0001.pdf" out of eight files
shown in FIG. 25A will be described. The part "20150123" indicates
the date of Jan. 23, 2015, and the subsequent part "0925" indicates
the time of 9:25. Since the eight files have been read by the
continuous multi-crop scan, they have the information of the same
date and time. The files also include serial numbers of 0001 to
0008 indicating the relation thereof at the end of the filename of
each file.
[0217] In addition, the name of the folder storing these files
includes the information of the date and time at which the first
batch scan is executed (twelfth embodiment).
[0218] FIG. 25B is an explanatory view showing an embodiment
different from that in FIG. 25A in which image data of the
originals which have been read is stored in the USB memory. In FIG.
25A, the image data of each original cropped by the batch scan is
stored in one folder that is newly created. On the other hand, in
FIG. 25B, each file is stored without creating a new folder.
However, eight files include the information of the date and time
at which the first batch scan is executed, as in FIG. 25A. The
eight files also include the information indicating the relation of
these files. Only from the filenames, it is understood that the
eight files are related to one another, since the same date and
same time are attached thereto. The information of the time at
which the first batch scan is executed is the information at which
the multi-crop scan is started. Therefore, this information is
considered to be more likely to leave impression on the user than
the second and subsequent batch scans. That is, it is considered
that the user easily recalls the detail of the file from the time
information attached to the filename.
[0219] Note that the serial number attached at the end of each file
in FIGS. 25A and 25B is merely one example of the information
indicating relation. This is similar to the case in FIGS. 17A and
17B.
[0220] As described above, in the continuous multi-crop scan, the
image of the respective originals read by more than one batch scan
is handled as a series of image data so as to be distinguishable
from other image data.
[0221] On the other hand, in the single multi-crop scan, the images
of the respective originals read by each batch scan is handled as a
series of image data, but they are handled as being distinguished
from image data read by other batch scans, such as a previous or
next batch scan.
<<Operation Procedure of Continuous Multi-Crop
Scan>>
[0222] The process in which the control unit 41 executes the
above-mentioned multi-crop scan will comprehensively be
described.
[0223] FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating the process executed by
the control unit when the continuous multi-crop is selected. As
shown in FIG. 26, the control unit 41 displays a screen for
allowing a user to select the scanning condition and multi-crop on
the operation display unit 51 (step S51, corresponding to FIGS. 14A
to 14D). Then, the control unit 41 requests the user to leave the
original cover open (corresponding to FIGS. 14E to 14F). The
control unit 41 then waits until the user touches the "Original
count" key to select the continuous multi-crop (corresponding to
FIGS. 20A and 20B), multiple originals are arranged on the original
table 20 (step S53, corresponding to FIG. 21), and the "Start" key
is pressed (step S55).
[0224] When the "Start" key is pressed (Yes in step S55,
corresponding to FIG. 22A), the control unit 41 determines the
maximum readable area as a reading-area (step S57), and then,
starts scanning and reading of the originals (step S59). Then, the
control unit 41 waits until the reading by the batch scan is
finished (step S61, corresponding to FIG. 22B).
[0225] After finishing the reading, the control unit 41 controls
such that the cropping unit 25 crops the image data of each
original (step S63), and displays the cropped result on the
operation display unit 51 (step S65, corresponding to FIG. 22C).
Then, the control unit 41 waits until the "Read-End" key is pressed
(step S67) or the "Start" key is pressed (step S55 through No in
step S67).
[0226] When the originals to be read next are arranged on the
original table (corresponding to FIG. 23) and the "Start" key is
pressed (Yes in step S55, corresponding to FIG. 24A), the control
unit 41 determines the maximum readable area as a reading-area
(step S57). Then, the control unit 41 performs the second batch
scan (steps S59 to S65, corresponding to FIG. 24B).
[0227] The control unit 41 then waits again until the "Read-End"
key is pressed (step S67) or the "Start" key is pressed (step S55
through No in step S67, corresponding to FIG. 24C).
[0228] When the "Read-End" key is pressed, the control unit 41 ends
the reading (Yes in step S67, corresponding to FIG. 24D).
[0229] Then, the control unit 41 controls such that the cropping
unit 25 crops the image data of the last original which has been
read (step S69), and starts the transfer of the image data of the
originals, which have been read, to the memory (step S71). In the
present embodiment, the image data is transferred to the USB memory
connected to the USB connector 71. However, this is merely one
example. In the continuous multi-crop scan, if the copying function
is selected, the control unit 41 transfers the image data to the
image forming apparatus 12 through the image output unit 27, as in
the single multi-crop scan. If the scanner function is selected,
the control unit 41 may transmit the image data to an external
device connected to a network through the communication unit 45. If
the image filing function is selected, the control unit 41
transfers the image data to the storage unit 43 and stores the same
therein. If the facsimile function is selected, the control unit 41
transmits the image data through the communication unit 45 and a
public line.
[0230] After completing the transfer of the image data (Yes in step
S71), the control unit 41 notifies the user of the completion of
the transfer (step S73, corresponding to FIG. 24E), and ends the
process.
<<Photo Multi-Crop (Inversion Multi-Crop)>>
[0231] It has already been described that, in the ordinary
multi-crop scan, that is, in the non-inversion multi-crop scan, the
original cover is left open and the scanning is performed in order
that the area outside of an original is read as black with respect
to a white or light tone base of the original. The cropping unit 25
crops the image corresponding to the original by recognizing the
border of the originals on the basis of the contrast between the
light tone base of the originals and the black color of the area
outside of the originals.
[0232] However, an original may have a dark tone edge depending on
a type of an original. An original with an edge locally having a
dark tone can precisely be cropped on the premise that the original
has a rectangular shape. However, if an original has a lot of dark
tone parts, it cannot sufficiently be cropped in some cases.
[0233] A typical example of an original with a dark tone edge is an
original of a photo of night scenes without borders. A photo of the
same night scenes with borders have a white edge, so that the
cropping unit 25 can crop each original from the image read with
the original cover 33 being left open. However, in a photo without
borders, the contrast between the night scenes and the area outside
of the original is insufficient.
[0234] An original with a dark tone edge, such as a photo of night
scenes without borders, had better be read with the original cover
33 being closed in order that the area outside of the original is
read as white. The lower surface of the original cover 33 is white.
This is to prevent the generation of a sense of strangeness between
a standard size original with white or light tone base and the
original cover 33, even if the original cover (document holder)
that is the area outside of the original is read when the original
is read.
[0235] In view of this, it is preferable that a multi-crop function
for an original having a dark tone edge is provided separately from
the ordinary multi-crop, and the user can select either one of
multi-crops according to an original.
[0236] In the present embodiment, the multi-crop function for an
original having a dark tone edge is referred to as "photo
multi-crop" or "inversion multi-crop". While in the ordinary
multi-crop (non-inversion multi-crop), the control unit 41 requests
the user to leave the original cover 33 open (for example, see
FIGS. 14E and 14F), the control unit 41 requests the user to close
the original cover 33 in the photo multi-crop. Then, the cropping
unit 25 recognizes the border of each original and crops the image
corresponding to the original on the basis of the contrast between
a dark tone base of the original and light tone of the area outside
of the original. In this case, the grayscale of the image obtained
by the batch scan may be inverted, and then, the cropping unit 25
may perform cropping. The cropped image of each original is stored
in the memory after the grayscale thereof is again inverted.
According to this configuration, the area outside of an original
has a black color or a dark tone in any of the inversion multi-crop
and the non-inversion multi-crop, whereby an image can be cropped
by the same process.
[0237] FIG. 27A shows an example of an image read by a batch scan
in the ordinary multi-crop. FIG. 27A shows the example in which
multiple photo originals with borders having a dark tone edge are
read with the original cover being left open.
[0238] FIG. 27B shows an example of an image read by a batch scan
in the photo multi-crop. FIG. 27B shows the example in which
multiple photo originals without borders having a dark tone edge
are read with the original cover being closed.
[0239] FIGS. 28A to 28D are explanatory views showing one example
of an operation procedure when the photo multi-crop scan is
performed by the digital multifunction peripheral 10.
[0240] For the selection of the photo multi-crop scan, the digital
multifunction peripheral 10 which has been in the stand-by mode is
brought into the state in which the screen illustrated in FIG. 14C
is displayed through the screens in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 14A, and 14B.
The "Photo Multi-crop" key is disposed at the right of the
"Multi-crop" key on the screen in FIG. 14C.
[0241] When the user touches the "Photo Multi-crop" key (see FIG.
28A), the control unit 41 displays a check mark indicating that the
"Photo Multi-crop" key is selected on the "Photo Multi-crop" key in
response to this operation. The control unit 41 also displays a
message of "Be sure to close the automatic document feeder and
press [Start] to scan." along with an "OK" key on the operation
display unit 51 (see FIG. 28B).
[0242] When the user reads the message of "Be sure to close the
automatic document feeder and press [Start] to scan." and presses
the "OK" key (see FIG. 28C), the control unit 41 erases the message
in response to this operation (see FIG. 28D).
[0243] The user arranges multiple originals, which are the objects
for the multi-crop scan, on the original table 20, and then, closes
the original cover 33. After the user presses the "Start" key, the
control unit 41 starts the batch scan for the photo multi-crop.
[0244] As shown in FIG. 27B, the cropping unit 25 recognizes the
border of the originals on the basis of the dark tone edges of the
originals and the white color at the area outside of the originals,
and performs cropping.
[0245] Since the control unit 41 can acquire the open state and
closed state of the original cover 33 by the cover
opening-and-closing sensor 35, the control unit 41 may invalidate
the "Start" key to inhibit the start of the batch scan while the
original cover 33 is left open (thirteenth embodiment).
[0246] Alternatively, in the case where the "Start" key is pressed
with the original cover 33 being left open, the control unit 41 may
inhibit the start of the batch scan, and display a message for
encouraging the user to close the original cover 33 and again press
the "Start" key on the operation display unit 51 (fourteenth
embodiment).
[0247] The other operation procedure is similar to the ordinary
multi-crop scan.
<<Different Embodiment in Selecting Photo
Multi-Crop>>
[0248] In the above example, the "Photo Multi-crop" key is prepared
separately from the "Multi-crop" key, and the user selects the
function of the photo multi-crop by touching the "Photo Multi-crop"
key. In this embodiment, the example of selecting the photo
multi-crop by the operation procedure different from the above
example will be described.
[0249] FIGS. 29A to 29I are explanatory views showing different
example of the operation procedure for performing the photo
multi-crop scan by the digital multifunction peripheral 10.
[0250] As in the above example, for the selection of the photo
multi-crop, the digital multifunction peripheral 10 which has been
in the stand-by mode is brought into the state in which the screen
illustrated in FIG. 29A is displayed through the screens in FIGS.
11A, 11B, 14A, and 14B. On the screen in FIG. 29A, the "Multi-crop"
key is displayed but the "Photo Multi-crop key" is not displayed
and included in the "Multi-crop".
[0251] When the user touches the "Multi-crop" key (see FIG. 29B),
the control unit 41 displays a check mark indicating that the
"Multi-crop" is selected on the "Multi-crop" key in response to
this operation. Then, the control unit 41 displays a message of
"Specify tone of originals." along with an operation key of "Light
tone" and an operation key of "Dark tone" on the operation display
unit 51 to encourage the user to select either one of tones.
[0252] When the user touches the "Light tone" key (see FIG. 29D),
the control unit 41 determines that the ordinary multi-crop mode is
selected on the basis of this operation. Then, the control unit 41
displays the message of "Leave the automatic document feeder open
and press [Start] to scan." along with the "OK" key on the
operation display unit 51 (see FIG. 29E).
[0253] When the user reads the message of "Leave the automatic
document feeder open and press [Start] to scan." and presses the
"OK" key (see FIG. 29F), the control unit 41 erases the message in
response to this operation.
[0254] The operation procedure after that is similar to the
operation procedure described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16A to
16C.
[0255] On the other hand, when the user touches the "Dark tone" key
on the screen illustrated in FIG. 29C (see FIG. 29G), the control
unit 41 determines that the photo multi-crop is selected in
response to this operation. Then, the control unit 41 displays the
message of "Be sure to close the automatic document feeder and
press [Start] to scan." along with the "OK" key on the operation
display unit 51 (see FIG. 29H).
[0256] When the user reads the message of "Be sure to close the
automatic document feeder and press [Start] to scan." and presses
the "OK" key (see FIG. 29I), the control unit 41 erases the message
in response to this operation.
[0257] The operation procedure after that is similar to the
operation procedure of the photo multi-crop previously
described.
<<Card Multi-Crop Scan>>
[0258] The digital multifunction peripheral 10 according to the
present embodiment has a card multi-crop scan function. The card
multi-crop scan can be said to be a type of the multi-crop scan.
However, different from the ordinary multi-crop scan, a character
of a cropped image of each card original is recognized by character
recognition and character data is output. It is considered that,
when a card original is to be read, the user intends to use the
character information written on the card as well as the image of
each card original in most cases. The character recognition is
performed by the character recognition unit 29. The character
recognition is performed by applying known character recognition
technology.
[0259] FIGS. 30A to 30T are explanatory views showing one example
of an operation procedure when a card multi-crop scan is performed
with the digital multifunction peripheral 10.
[0260] For the execution of the card multi-crop scan, the digital
multifunction peripheral 10 which has been in the stand-by mode is
brought into a state in which the screen in FIG. 14C is displayed
through the screens in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 14A, and 14B. On the screen
in FIG. 14C, the "Card Multi-crop" key is disposed at the left of
the "Multi-crop" key.
[0261] When the user touches the "Card Multi-crop" key (see FIG.
30A), the control unit 41 displays a "Card Multi-crop" window shown
in FIG. 30B in response to this operation. While the "Card
Multi-crop" window is displayed, the "Start" key is gray-out and
cannot be selected.
[0262] An "ON" key and an "OFF" key for turning "ON" and "OFF" the
"Card Multi-crop" function are disposed at the left part of the
"Card Multi-crop" window. Initially, the "Card Multi-crop" function
is "OFF". Therefore, when the user intends to execute the "Card
Multi-crop", he/she selects the "ON" key. If the "OFF" key is
selected, the "Card Multi-crop" function is canceled. The user can
turn "ON" or "OFF" the "Card Multi-crop"function by using these
keys.
[0263] Further, at the right part of the "Card Multi-crop" window,
a "Language" key, a drop-down key of "File Format", a check box of
"Attach image of the card: PDF", and a check box of "Use name on
the card as a filename" are prepared in order from the top.
[0264] The "Language" key receives an operation of selecting a
language of a character written on a card. FIG. 30C shows a
"Language" window displayed when the "Language" key is touched. The
language currently selected is displayed at the top of the
"Language" window. Buttons for character recognition languages
which are selectable are displayed below the currently selected
language in the form of a list. When one of the language buttons
displayed as a list is touched, the control unit 41 switches the
language to the selected one. When a vertical scroll bar on the
right is touched and the downward scrolling operation is performed,
the control unit 41 displays buttons of languages which are located
below and not displayed on the screen in FIG. 30C. An "OK" key is
provided at the upper right corner of the "Language" window. When
this "OK" key is touched, the control unit 41 finally determines
the language selection, and returns the window to the "Card
Multi-crop" window shown in FIG. 30B. Note that, in this case, the
control unit 41 displays the check mark indicating that the "Card
Multi-crop" is selected on the "Card Multi-crop" key (a part
thereof is behind the "Card Multi-crop" window).
[0265] The "File Format" key receives an operation of selecting an
output data format of the character data obtained as a result of
the character recognition. The "File Format" key receives the
selection of a data format when information (the name of a company,
an official position, a personal name, a department name, an
address, a mail address, a phone number, etc.) on the card
subjected to the character recognition is output as a single data
file. FIG. 30D shows the state in which the "File Format" key is
touched. As shown in FIG. 30D, a vCard format or a CSV format is
selectable as an output format.
[0266] The check box of "Attach image of the card: PDF" receives
the setting of whether or not the image data of the card original
is sent as a single data file along with the file of the character
data obtained as a result of the character recognition.
[0267] The check box of "Use name on the card as a filename"
receives the setting of whether or not the name obtained as a
result of the character recognition is used as an output
filename.
[0268] An "OK" key is provided at the upper right corner of the
"Card Multi-crop" window. As shown in FIG. 30E, when this "OK" key
is touched, the control unit 41 waits the instruction to start the
"Card Multi-crop" function in the condition set on the "Card
Multi-crop" window. Note that the control unit 41 displays the
message of "Be sure to close the automatic document feeder and
press [Start] to scan." on the operation display unit 51 along with
the "OK" key before receiving the instruction to start (see FIG.
30F).
[0269] At that point, the control unit 41 displays the check mark
indicating that the "Card Multi-crop" is selected on the "Card
Multi-crop" key.
[0270] When the user closes the original cover 33 and presses the
"OK" key after reading the message of "Be sure to close the
automatic document feeder and press [Start] to scan." (see FIG.
30G), the control unit 41 erases the message in response to this
operation. Then, the control unit 41 enables the gray-out "Start"
key to be selectable (see FIG. 30H). When the cover open/close
sensor 35 detects that the original cover 33 is opened, the control
unit 41 grays out the "Start" key so as not to receive the
operation of starting the card multi-crop scan.
[0271] In the state in FIG. 30H, single multi-crop of the card
multi-crop scan is selected. When the user then touches an
"Original count" key on the screen shown in FIG. 30I (see FIG.
30I), the control unit 41 determines that continuous multi-crop is
selected in response to this operation. In this way, the single
multi-crop and the continuous multi-crop are selectable for the
"Card Multi-crop".
[0272] Hereinafter, it is supposed that the continuous multi-crop
is selected.
[0273] The user arranges multiple card originals which are the
objects for the multi-crop scan on the original table 20 (see FIG.
30J), and closes the original cover 33. When the user presses the
"Start" key (see FIG. 30K), the control unit 41 starts a batch scan
in photo multi-crop.
[0274] Alternatively, when the user touches the "OK" key provided
at the upper right corner of the display region of the list of
"Others" on the screen in FIG. 30K, the control unit 41 returns the
screen to the screen shown in FIG. 30L in response to this
operation.
[0275] When the "Card Multi-crop" function is selected, the control
unit 41 sets the ordinary reading condition to a reading condition
optimum for reading card originals. While the items similar to the
items on the screen in FIG. 14A are displayed on the screen in FIG.
30L, FIG. 30L shows the state in which the settings are changed to
the settings optimum for the "Card Multi-crop". Specifically, the
"Exposure" which is generally set as "Auto" is changed to
"Character" optimum for the "Card Multi-crop". Further, the
"Resolution" which is generally set as "200.times.200" is changed
to "400.times.400" optimum for the "Card Multi-crop" function. In
addition, as shown in FIG. 30E, it is supposed to be set such that
the language is "English", the format is vCard format, a PDF image
is attached to the character data, and the name on the card is not
used as a filename.
[0276] When the user presses the "Start" key on the screen in FIG.
30K or FIG. 30L, the control unit 41 causes, in response to this
operation, the scanning unit 21 and the original reading unit 23 to
read sixteen card originals 1 to 16 shown in FIG. 30J by a batch
scan. During the reading, the control unit 41 displays the message
of "Scanning original. (Pg. No. 1)" and an operation key of "Cancel
scan" as shown in FIG. 30M.
[0277] After the first batch scan is finished, the cropping unit 25
crops images corresponding to 1 to 16 originals. The control unit
41 displays operation keys of "Read-End", "Change setting", and
"Start" on the operation display unit 51 along with a message of
"16 originals have been scanned (Total: 16 pages). Place next
original. Press [Start]. When finished, press [Read-End]." on the
basis of the cropping of the originals by the cropping unit 25 to
encourage the user to do the next operation (see FIG. 30N). The
control unit 41 also causes the character recognition unit 29 to
perform character recognition for the cropped image of each card
original, thereby acquiring character data.
[0278] When the user arranges sixteen card originals 17 to 32 which
are the objects for the next multi-crop scan on the original table
20 (see FIG. 30O), and presses the "Start" key, the control unit 41
starts the next batch scan in response to this operation.
Specifically, the control unit 41 causes the scanning unit 21 and
the original reading unit 23 to read sixteen card originals shown
in FIG. 30O by the batch scan.
[0279] The control unit 41 handles the image data obtained by the
first batch scan and the image data obtained by the second batch
scan as a series of image data.
[0280] After the second batch scan is finished, the cropping unit
25 crops images corresponding to sixteen originals 17 to 32. The
control unit 41 displays operation keys of "Read-End", "Change
setting", and "Start" on the operation display unit 51 along with a
message of "16 originals have been scanned (Total: 32 pages). Place
next original. Press [Start]. When finished, press [Read-End]." on
the basis of the cropping of the originals by the cropping unit 25
(see FIG. 30P). The control unit 41 also causes the character
recognition unit 29 to perform character recognition for the
cropped image of each card original, thereby acquiring character
data.
[0281] When the user touches the "Read-End" key (see FIG. 30Q), the
control unit 41 stores the character data of thirty-two card
originals in total, which have been read and cropped by two batch
scans so far, into an USB memory connected to the USB connector 71
along with the image data. After the writing to the USB memory is
finished, the control unit 41 displays a message of "Originals have
been scanned. (Pg. No. 2)" on the operation display unit 51 (see
FIG. 30R).
[0282] As shown in FIG. 31, the control unit 41 stores a pair of
character data and image data corresponding to cropped thirty-two
originals in total into the USB memory as sixty-four files stored
in one folder. The filenames attached to sixty-four files include
information of the date and time at which the first batch scan is
executed. The same date indicates relation among sixty-four files.
The character data and the image data that make a pair have the
same filenames but different extensions indicating a type of the
file.
[0283] The filename "image20150123_0925_0001" of the first pair out
of multiple pairs shown in FIG. 31 will be described. The part
"20150123" indicates the date of Jan. 23, 2015, and the subsequent
part "0925" indicates the time of 9:25. The sixteen files are read
by the continuous multi-crop, and have information of the same date
and time. The files also include serial numbers 0001 to 0032
indicating the relation among these files at the end of the
filename of each file. The file extension "vcf" indicates that this
is the character data file in vCard format, while the file
extension of "pdf" indicates that this is the image data in PDF
format. Note that the embodiment shown in FIG. 31 illustrates the
case in which the "Use name on the card as a filename" is not
selected and the name obtained as a result of the character
recognition is not used as a filename.
[0284] On the other hand, FIG. 32 shows the embodiment in which the
"Use name on the card as a filename" is selected and the name
obtained as a result of the character recognition is used as a
filename.
[0285] In FIG. 32, "Itoh Ichiro" in the first pair is the name
obtained as a result of the character recognition. "Satoh Taro" in
the second pair is the name obtained as a result of the character
recognition. Similarly, "Tanaka Hanako" in the third pair is the
name obtained as a result of the character recognition, and "Ueda
Kazuo" in the fourth pair is the name obtained as a result of the
character recognition. These names are used as filenames.
<<Operation Procedure for Reading Card Original>>
[0286] FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure for
reading a card original in single multi-crop. Since steps in FIG.
33 almost correspond to the steps in FIG. 18 showing single
multi-crop, different points will only be described.
[0287] In step S73, card originals are placed on the original
table. Note that the control unit 41 does not recognize the card
originals through the detection by the original size detection unit
31, but assumes the card originals by the depression of the "Card
Multi-crop" key, and therefore, the difference between step S73 and
step S33 in FIG. 18 is not the difference in the process of the
control unit 41.
[0288] In step S83, the character recognition unit 29 generates
character data on the basis of image data. The process in step S83
and the process in step S43 in FIG. 18 are different from each
other in that only image data is generated in step S43. The process
in step S85 is also different from the process in step S45 in FIG.
18 in that the data to be transferred in step S85 is character data
(the image data is transferred together according to the
selection).
[0289] FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure for
reading a card original in continuous multi-crop. Since steps in
FIG. 34 almost correspond to steps for the continuous multi-crop in
FIG. 26, the different point will only be described.
[0290] In step S93, card originals are placed on the original
table. Note that the control unit 41 does not recognize the card
originals through the detection by the original size detection unit
31, but assumes the card originals by the depression of the "Card
Multi-crop" key, and therefore, the difference between step S93 and
step S53 in FIG. 26 is not the difference in the process of the
control unit 41.
[0291] In step S103, the character recognition unit 29 generates
character data on the basis of image data. This process is
different from the process in S63 in FIG. 26 in which only image
data is generated. The process in step S107 is also different from
the process in step S67 in FIG. 26 in that the data to be
transferred in step S107 is character data (the image data is
transferred together according to the selection).
[0292] In addition, the process in step S109 is also different from
the process in step S69 in FIG. 26 in that files prepared as a
series of image data are for character data (a pair of character
data and image data according to selection).
<<Preview and Reload of Card Original>>
[0293] A preview function can be used for reading a standard size
original or the ordinary multi-crop scan. However, if the preview
function is used for the card multi-crop, the user can confirm the
read state from the preview before performing the character
recognition, and can reload the card original. Therefore, this
function will be described as the feature related to the character
recognition.
[0294] FIGS. 30S and 30T are explanatory views showing a preview
operation when the card multi-crop scan is performed in the digital
multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1.
[0295] For example, a "Preview" key is displayed above the "Start"
key on the screen in FIG. 30K or FIG. 30L. When the "Start" key is
touched as described above, the control unit 41 performs a batch
scan in card multi-crop to crop the images, and transfers the
cropped images to a designated output destination (for example, the
USB memory connected to the USB connector 71). In the case where
the "Preview" key is touched in place of the "Start" key (see FIG.
30S), the control unit 41 does not transfer the images of the card
originals to the designated output destination but displays these
images on the screen of the operation display unit 51. This is the
preview function.
[0296] FIG. 30T shows the state in which the first card out of
sixteen cards which have been read by a batch scan and illustrated
in FIG. 30J is displayed on the operation display unit 51 as a
preview.
[0297] Note that, in the card multi-crop, the original reading unit
23 detects the edge of the card, i.e., the contour of the
rectangle, determines a reference in vertical and horizontal
directions, and corrects the skew of the original image. Since card
originals are scanned in batch with the original cover 33 being
left open, the original reading unit 23 can detect the contour
according to the contrast between the area of the card original and
the area outside of the card original.
[0298] Even if the card originals placed on the original table 20
are skew with respect to the scanning direction, the character
recognition is performed after the reference in vertical and
horizontal directions is determined on the basis of the contour of
each card original, and therefore, high-precise character
recognition is enabled as compared to the case where the scanning
direction is used as a reference in vertical and horizontal
directions. FIG. 30J shows the state in which the images of the
cards after the skew correction are displayed as a preview. In
addition, it is preferable that the original reading unit 23 or the
character recognition unit 29 determines the feature of the
character or the layout of each card image and rotates the card
image so that the card image is erected. The display of a preview
image in an erected state allows the user to easily confirm the
image. Further, high-precise character recognition is enabled.
[0299] Note that the function of correcting skew of an original
image may be invalidated according to the setting. When the skew
correction is invalidated, the processing time taken for the skew
correction can be shortened.
[0300] When three keys, which are "-", "+", and magnifying glass
icon, arranged below the preview card image are touched, the
control unit 41 reduces or enlarges the preview image at a
predetermined percentage, or receives a designated display
magnification and displays the preview image with the designated
magnification. A counterclockwise key and a clockwise key located
at the right of the three keys enable the read image of each of
card originals to rotate 90 degrees in each direction. A horizontal
scroll bar on the right of these keys receives an operation of
selecting one of sixteen card images which have been scanned in
batch.
[0301] A "Reload" key is displayed above the "Start" key. When the
"Reload" key is touched, the control unit 41 redoes the batch scan.
The control unit 41 may display a screen (not illustrated) for
receiving the change in setting of the reading condition and
receive the changed setting before the user redoes the batch
scan.
[0302] When the "Start" key is touched on the screen in FIG. 30T,
the control unit 41 causes the character recognition unit 29 to
perform the character recognition on the basis of the image of each
card original, and transfers the resultant character data to the
designated output destination (for example, the USB memory
connected to the USB connector 71). The control unit 41 transfers
the character data together with the image data according to the
selection.
[0303] Alternatively, even if the "Start" key is not touched, the
control unit 41 may start the character recognition process after a
certain period of time has elapsed from the start of the preview
image display.
[0304] As described above,
(i) the image reading apparatus according to the present invention
includes: original reading circuitry as an original reading unit
configured to scan originals placed on an original table in batch
by a batch-scan to read an image of each of the originals; a
cropping unit configured to crop an image of each original from an
image obtained by the batch-scan; an image output unit configured
to attach a filename to image data of the cropped image of each
original and output each image data in a new folder or an existing
folder; and control circuitry as a control unit configured to
control the original reading unit, and execute processes of the
cropping unit and the image output unit, wherein the control unit
is capable of processing images of multiple originals cropped by
more than one batch-scan as a series of image data, and controlling
the image output unit in at least such a way that a series of
filenames is attached to the series of image data according to a
predetermined rule, the series of image data is output into the
same folder, or the series of image data is stored in association
with one another.
[0305] In the present invention, the original table is the location
where an original is placed when an image of the original is to be
read, and the original reading unit reads the image of the original
placed on the original table. The specific configuration thereof
is, for example, an area where a glass plate or a transparent resin
plate is horizontally placed, and an original is placed thereon
with a surface which should be read facing downward. The original
reading unit scans the original upward from below the plate to read
the image. However, the nature of the present invention is not
limited thereto. For example, the present invention also includes a
configuration in which an original is placed on a non-transparent
or transparent original table with the surface which should be read
facing upward, and the original is scanned from above the original
table.
[0306] Flat sheet-type originals are typical. However, the original
is not limited thereto, and may have irregularities or may be a 3D
object.
[0307] In addition, the multi-crop process is to scan multiple
originals which are simultaneously placed on the original table in
batch and crop an image of each original. The process for reading
an image of an original, which is sequentially replaced one by one
using an automatic document feeder or the like, on the original
table is not included in the batch scan.
[0308] To crop an image of an original means that an image area
corresponding to each original is extracted from the entire
reading-area by the batch scan and trimming is performed, and in
the multi-crop process, a plurality of image areas, each of which
corresponds to each original, is extracted from the entire
reading-area.
[0309] Preferable configurations of the present invention will
further be described.
(ii) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
control unit attaches filenames including the same time information
to the series of image data.
[0310] According to this configuration, the relation among a series
of image data can be recognized from the same time information
attached to the filenames. Further, the time information itself
allows the user to easily recognize what relation the originals
have, which is convenient.
(iii) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
time information concerns a time of the first batch-scan
[0311] According to this configuration, even if more than one batch
scan is performed, a series of filenames based on the time
information concerning the first batch scan is attached to provide
relation. The time information concerning the first scan at which
the reading is started is likely to remain in user's memory, and
allows the user to easily recognize what relation the originals
have. Thus, it is convenient.
(iv) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
control unit controls the image output unit in such a way that a
new folder is created and each image data is output into this
folder, the folder having a folder name including time information
concerning a time of the first batch-scan.
[0312] According to this configuration, each image data is stored
in a newly-created folder, and thus, the relation among a series of
image data can be recognized. In addition, the folder name
including the time information concerning the first scan allows the
user to easily recognize what relation the image data in this
folder has, which is convenient.
(v) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
image output unit transmits image data to an external transmission
destination designated beforehand, and the control unit transmits a
series of image data to the same transmission destination.
[0313] According to this configuration, a series of image data is
transmitted to the same external transmission destination, whereby
the user can easily recognize the relation among the image data
even at the transmission destination.
(vi) The image reading apparatus may further include: an operation
key configured to receive designation indicating that a type of
each original is a business card or not; and a character
recognition unit configured to perform character recognition to a
cropped image of each original which is designated as a business
card, and to output character data, wherein the image output unit
may output the character data, in place of or along with image data
of each original, with a filename being attached thereto, and the
control unit may control the image output unit in such a way that
filenames corresponding to the image data of each original and the
character data output as a result of the character recognition
performed to the original by the character recognition unit are
attached.
[0314] According to this configuration, character data of multiple
business cards, which is obtained through a batch scan and
character recognition, is output, and the character data of each of
the business cards and the image data of this card can be output as
a pair of data with filenames corresponding to the character data
and the image data being attached thereto.
[0315] The user can understand the image data of the card and the
character data thereof from the attached filenames.
[0316] Note that the operation key receiving the designation
indicating that an original is a business card is a "Card
Multi-crop" key in the above embodiment.
(vii) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
operation key receives a selection of whether or not image data of
each original designated as a business card is output along with
character data output from the character recognition unit, and the
control unit controls whether to output only the character data or
to output the image data along with the character data according to
the selection.
[0317] According to this configuration, the user can select whether
to output only the character data of each of the card originals or
to output the image data thereof along with the character data,
before performing the card multi-crop scan.
(viii) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
control unit controls the image output unit in such a way that, for
each original designated as a business card, a filename is attached
using the character data output from the character recognition
unit.
[0318] According to this configuration, the result of the character
recognition can be included in a filename, which makes it easy for
a user to recognize the detail of character data or image data.
[0319] The character data attached to the filename may be a
personal name as in the above embodiment, but it is not limited
thereto. The other items written on a card, such as the name of a
company, may be included. It may be configured such that a user can
select which item is included in a filename.
(ix) The image reading apparatus may further include: a display
unit that displays an image of each of scanned originals as a
preview, wherein the display unit may display each scanned original
on the display unit for a preview in the case where an original
which has been designated as a business card is to be read, the
operation key may receive a selection of whether each of the
scanned originals is subjected to character recognition by the
character recognition unit or the scan of each original is redone,
at the point or after the point at which each original is displayed
as a preview, and the control unit may cause the character
recognition unit to perform character recognition or causes the
original reading unit to redo a scan of each original.
[0320] According to this configuration, character data is
generated.
(x) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
original reading unit reads an image of each original on the basis
of a plurality of reading conditions according to a type of an
original, and the control unit changes the image reading conditions
to a setting optimum for reading a business card, when the
operation key receives a designation indicating that the original
is a business card.
[0321] Since a business card original has to mainly provide
necessary information from characters written on the card, it has
smaller characters than a general original.
[0322] According to this configuration, when the card multi-crop
scan is selected, the control unit sets reading conditions optimum
for a business card original. Therefore, the control unit can set
reading conditions optimum for recognizing small characters without
bothering a user. The setting suitable for reading a business card
may be preliminarily determined. In addition, the predetermined
setting may be changed for each reading apparatus.
(xi) The image reading apparatus may further include: an original
cover provided to be openable with respect to the original table
and holds an original placed on the original table; and a cover
open-and-close sensor configured to detect an open and closed state
of the original cover, wherein when an original designated as a
business card is to be read, the control unit may display, on the
display unit, an operation guide indicating that the original is
scanned with the original cover being left open, and in the case
where the cover open-and-close sensor detects that the original
cover is closed, the control unit may inhibit a scan.
[0323] According to this configuration, when a business card
original is to be read, the original is scanned with the original
cover being left open so as to enable recognition of the edge of
the card original. Thus, a large contrast is generated between the
area of the card original and the area outside of the card
original, whereby each card original can precisely be cropped along
the edge thereof.
(xii) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
original reading unit detects an edge of an original designated as
a business card, the character recognition unit has a correction
function for correcting skew of each original in such a way that a
character to be recognized is erected, on the basis of the
direction of the detected edge and features of a character, and the
skew correction function is enabled to be validated or invalidated
according to a setting. (xiii) The image reading apparatus may be
configured such that the control unit is capable of selectively
executing a single multi-crop process in which images of originals
read by one batch-scan are handled as a series of image data and
output so as to be distinguishable from image data read by other
batch-scans and a continuous multi-crop process in which images of
originals read by more than one batch-scan are handled as a series
of image data.
[0324] According to this configuration, even when a lot of
originals are read by more than one batch scan, the images of the
originals can be output in such a way that the relation among the
images of the originals, which have been read, is easily understood
without requiring a complicated operation or process.
(xiv) The image reading apparatus may further include: a display
unit configured to display a number of originals read by each
batch-scan and the total number of originals read by a sequence of
batch-scans, when the continuous multi-crop process is
executed.
[0325] According to this configuration, a user can confirm the
number of originals, which have been associated with one another as
a series of image data, during the execution of batch scans in the
continuous multi-crop process. The user can more appropriately
determine whether to further continue the batch scan or to end the
continuous multi-crop process on the basis of the display.
(xv) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that when
the continuous multi-crop process is executed, the control unit
displays an operation key that receives an instruction to start the
next scan on the display unit every time each batch-scan is
executed, and when the operation key is operated, the control unit
executes the next batch-scan to acquire image data of each
original, and handles the acquired image data and the image data
obtained by the previous batch-scan as a series of image data.
[0326] According to this configuration, the user can issue an
instruction to continue the batch scan while confirming the number
of originals which have been read by each batch scan and the total
number of originals which have been read by a sequence of batch
scans.
(xvi) The image reading apparatus may further include: an operation
key configured to receive a selection of a single multi-crop
process, by a user, and an operation key configured to receive a
selection of a continuous multi-crop process.
[0327] According to this configuration, the single multi-crop
process and the continuous multi-crop process are selectively
executed on the basis of the intention of the user placing multiple
originals on the original table, whereby it is precisely determined
whether or not image data obtained by a certain batch scan and
image data obtained by the previous or next batch scan are
associated with each other.
(xvii) The image reading apparatus may be configured such that the
control unit displays an operation key configured to receive an
instruction to end the continuous multi-crop process on the display
unit every time the next batch-scan is executed, and in the case
where the operation key is pressed, the control unit causes the
image output unit to output the image data acquired by the
batch-scans so far as a series of image data.
[0328] According to this configuration, the user can issue an
instruction to continue the batch scan or to end the multi-crop
process and output a series of image data while confirming the
number of originals which have been read by each batch scan and the
total number of originals which have been read by a sequence of
batch scans.
[0329] Preferable embodiments of the present invention include a
combination of any of the above two or more configurations.
[0330] In addition to the above-described embodiments, there can be
various modified examples of the invention. Such modified examples
should not be deemed to be out of the scope of the invention. The
invention should include all the modified examples within the
meaning and range of equivalency of scope of the claims.
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