JP2008011303A - Image processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To compose an optimum stamp image at a position matched with a draft image according to a content of the draft image, and to output it. <P>SOLUTION: An image processing apparatus 100 is provided with an image reader 101 to read the draft image recorded in a recording medium, a specific image identifier 111 to identify a specific kind of image from the read draft image, and a stamp image adder 104 to add a prescribed stamp image to the draft image when the specific image identifier 111 identifies the specific image. The stamp image adder 104 adds the stamp image by placing it near the specific image identified by the specific image identifier 111, or by replacing the specific image. The specific image can set prescribed mark, graphic, and design, or a handwritten character, or a handwritten mark or the like. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, and more particularly, to an image processing apparatus with a stamp function that prints a stamp image corresponding to a specific image when the specific image recorded on a copy source is read and printed out. .

  Some copiers have a so-called stamp function for adding a specific image and printing it when printing and outputting the read original image. The stamp function, for example, enables printing of a specific stamp image such as “provisional issue”, “important”, or “confidential” according to the content of the document image when printing the document image. In this case, the stamp image as described above is synthesized with the read document image and output as a print image.

  As a technique related to such a stamp function, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses that when an original image is printed, other images such as a page number, a date, and a stamp are printed together with the original image, and the colors are instructed by the user. An image forming apparatus capable of printing is disclosed.

The image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a first memory that stores other images in units of pages, and a second memory that stores original images, colors of original images, and colors used for printing other images. Then, the main controller reads the image stored in the second memory in page units, prints the other image stored in the first memory on the read document image, and sets the color of the document image in the second memory and the other image. The color designated by the user is acquired from the colors used for printing, and is given to another image printed on the original image by passing it to the printer control unit.
JP 2003-274133 A

The stamp function of the copying machine as described above is used as information indicating the state of the copied document image and the issuing source thereof.
However, the stamp function is set on the assumption that it is used for a specific purpose by printing characters for a specific stamp, such as “provisional issue”, “important”, and “confidential” as described above. It is. Usually, a specific stamp image is printed at a predetermined position of the recording paper (for example, upper left or upper right of the recording paper).
Further, even if it is possible to set the stamp image to be printed at random positions on the recording paper, it is difficult to align the print position of the stamp image with respect to the document image.

That is, in a conventional image processing apparatus with a stamp function, it is determined whether or not a stamp image has been added based on the contents of the original image, and when performing stamp printing, the stamp image is aligned with the original image and stamp printing is performed at an optimum position. Could not do.
The above Patent Document 1 also does not disclose a technical idea related to the stamp image printing function corresponding to the document image as described above.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides an image processing apparatus capable of synthesizing and outputting an optimal stamp image at a position aligned with a document image according to the content of the document image. It is intended to do.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a first technical means of the present invention includes an image reading unit that reads an original image recorded on a recording medium, and a specific type determined in advance from an original image read by the image reading unit. A specific image recognizing unit for recognizing a specific image, and a stamp image adding unit for adding a predetermined stamp image to a document image when the specific image recognizing unit recognizes the specific image. Is.

  The second technical means is characterized in that, in the first technical means, the stamp image adding unit adds a stamp image in the vicinity of the specific image recognized by the specific image recognizing unit.

  According to a third technical means, in the first technical means, the stamp image adding unit replaces the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit with a stamp image.

  According to a fourth technical means, in any one of the first to third technical means, the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit is an image indicating any one of a predetermined symbol, a figure, and a design. It is a feature.

  According to a fifth technical means, in any one of the first to third technical means, the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit is an image showing a handwritten character or a handwritten symbol. is there.

  A sixth technical means is characterized in that, in any one of the first to fifth technical means, a stamp image added to a document image can be variably set.

  A seventh technical means is characterized in that, in any one of the first to sixth technical means, a plurality of images can be combined as a stamp image.

  According to an eighth technical means, in any one of the first to seventh technical means, the document image to which the stamp image is applied is an image for printing, storage, or transmission.

  A ninth technical means is the image processing apparatus according to any one of the first to eighth technical means, wherein the image processing apparatus is a copying apparatus, a facsimile apparatus, or a combination of the copying apparatus and the facsimile apparatus. It is what.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus that can synthesize and output an optimal stamp image at a position aligned with an original image according to the content of the original image.
In particular, in the present invention, when a specific image is recognized at the time of reading a document image, a predetermined stamp image can be added and printed in the vicinity of the specific image. Thereby, stamp printing can be easily performed, and the printing positions of the document image and the stamp image can be easily aligned. Further, different stamp images such as “correction” and “addition” can be added according to the original.

Further, when the specific image is recognized, it is possible to delete the specific image that is not necessary in the original image by replacing it with the stamp image.
Further, a predetermined symbol, or a handwritten character or handwritten symbol can be recognized as the specific image, and a stamp image can be added in the vicinity of the specific image or in place of the specific image. Thus, for example, when a mark such as “*” is present on a part of the document, a stamp image can be added, or a stamp image can be added to a drawing or the like with a signature or a seal stamp. become.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, since it is possible to automatically add a stamp image to a document image, it is possible to save the trouble of pressing a stamp such as “correction” and “addition” as in the past. . Further, since a stamp image is added to the read original image, it is not necessary to add a stamp such as “correction” or “addition” to the original original image, and the original original can be stored as it is. It becomes possible.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining functions of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention. The image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment functions as a digital multifunction peripheral having a copy mode, a printer mode, a scanner mode, and a facsimile mode.
The image processing apparatus 100 reads an original image recorded on recording paper or the like, outputs an image data of the original image, an image forming unit 102 that prints the image data, and stores the image data. An image storage unit 103, a stamp image addition unit 104 for adding a stamp image to a document image read by the image reading unit 101, a control program storage unit 105 for controlling the apparatus, a RAM 106, and control of the entire apparatus. And a control unit 107 that performs the control. The control program storage unit 105 and the RAM 106 may be held inside the control unit 107 to constitute a microcomputer.

Furthermore, the image processing apparatus 100 includes a display unit 108 that displays various types of information, an operation unit 109 that receives user input, a modem unit 110 for communicating with other facsimile apparatuses, and a specific image for adding a stamp image. A specific image recognition unit 111 for recognizing an image, an NW communication unit 112 that communicates with an external device via a network (NW), and a management unit 113 that stores control information and setting information for the entire apparatus. is doing.
A touch panel can be applied as the operation unit 109, and the operation unit 109 is configured integrally with the display unit 8 such as a liquid crystal panel. As the operation unit 109, a key group, a button, a tablet, or the like can be used.

The image reading unit 101 functions as an input unit that inputs a document image. Here, for example, image data of a document image read by an image sensor using a CCD is output to the image forming unit 102.
The image forming unit 102 forms an image on the fed recording paper. For example, the image forming unit 102 includes a local memory that stores image data, a printing unit including a laser scanning unit, and a security unit that encrypts and decrypts the image data (none of which are shown). The local memory overwrites the old image with the new image and stores the image data. The printing unit prints an image on the fed recording paper based on the image data stored in the local memory.

  In the image forming unit 102, the input image data is stored in the local memory, image processing such as compression, expansion, and processing of the image data is performed on the local memory, and the image processed image data is printed in the printing unit, the image storage The data is output to the unit 103 or the control unit 107. The local memory is divided into a data area for storing input image data and an output data area for storing image data for output, or two local memories are used.

  The image storage unit 103 is a storage unit that stores image data to be processed. For example, an HD is used. When image data is stored in the image storage unit 103, the image data is encrypted as necessary.

The NW communication unit 112 is connected to a router, a switching hub, or the like via a LAN cable, and is connected to a network formed by an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server. The network is connected to the Internet via a communication line such as a telephone line network or an optical fiber.
The NW communication unit 112 transmits / receives data to / from an information processing apparatus in the network, and transmits / receives data to / from an external information processing apparatus or facsimile apparatus via the Internet.

  The modem unit 110 is connected to a telephone line network via a telephone line and performs facsimile communication with an external facsimile apparatus. Therefore, since image data is input through the NW communication unit 112 and the modem unit 110, these also function as input means.

  When there is an input from the operation unit 109 or a data input from an external device, the control unit 107 controls each unit based on information stored in the management unit 113 and processes the input image data. That is, any one of a copy mode, a printer mode, a scanner mode, and a facsimile mode is executed on the input image data. The control unit 107 can execute various controls by reading out the control program stored in the control program storage unit 105 and using the RAM 106 as its execution area.

Next, the operation when each mode is executed will be described.
First, in the copy mode, a document image read by the image reading unit 101 is output from the image forming unit 102 as a copy. Specifically, the image of the document set at the reading position is read by the CCD. The image data of the original image output from the CCD is completed as an output image on the local memory of the image forming unit 102, and is once transferred to the image storage unit 103 and stored. When there are a plurality of documents, these reading operation and storing operation are repeated.

  Thereafter, based on the processing contents instructed from the operation unit 109, the image data stored in the image storage unit 103 is sequentially read out at an appropriate timing and sent to the local memory of the image forming unit 102. The image data is transferred from the local memory to the printing unit in accordance with the writing timing of the image forming unit 102 to the printing unit, and the image is printed on the recording paper.

  Similarly, when printing a plurality of read original images, image data of the original image is stored in the image storage unit 103 as an output image in units of pages, and image formation is performed from the image storage unit 103 in accordance with the output mode. Sent to the local memory of the unit 102. The image data to the local memory is repeated for the number of output sheets, and transferred to the printing unit in accordance with the writing timing to the printing unit.

  In the printer mode, image data output from an external device such as a PC is output from the image forming unit 102. That is, image data from an external device is received by the NW communication unit 112. The control unit 107 sends the input image data to the local memory of the image forming unit 102, develops the output image data in units of pages, and temporarily stores the image data in the image storage unit 103. The image data is sent from the image storage unit 103 to the local memory of the image forming unit 102, transferred to the image forming unit 102 in the same manner as in the copy mode, and an image is printed.

  In the scanner mode, document image data read by the image reading unit 101 is communicated with data to an arbitrary external device via a network. That is, the image data output from the CCD is completed as an output image on the local memory of the image forming unit 102 and temporarily stored in the image storage unit 103. When the image data is sent to the local memory, the control unit 107 establishes communication with the transmission destination in the network instructed via the operation unit 109, and the image data is transferred from the NW communication unit 112 to the target transmission destination. Send. Further, the image data is also transmitted from the network to the external information processing apparatus or facsimile apparatus via the Internet by the NW communication unit 112. Also, the control unit 107 transmits image data from the modem unit 110 to another facsimile apparatus through a telephone line by a similar operation in the facsimile mode.

The specific image recognition unit 111 and the stamp image addition unit 104 are elements that realize the features of the present invention.
The specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes a predetermined specific type of image from the document image read by the image reading unit 101. The stamp image adding unit 104 adds a predetermined stamp image to the document image when the specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes the specific image.
The image data to which the stamp image is added by the stamp image adding unit 104 is output to the image forming unit 102, and a document image with the stamp image is printed out on a recording sheet or the like. An image for printing, storage, or transmission can be applied to the document image to which the stamp image is added.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of a stamp image to be added according to a specific image.
As the specific image to which the stamp image is added, an image showing a predetermined specific symbol, figure, design, or the like can be used. For example, symbols such as “*” and “*”, figures such as Δ and □, designs such as seals, company emblems, and national flags can be determined in advance.

The specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes a specific image included in the document image read by the image reading unit 101. As a specific image recognition technique, a conventionally known technique can be appropriately applied. For example, an image processing technique such as pattern recognition using a model or characteristic identification without using a model can be used.
For example, in pattern recognition, the feature is extracted from input image data and compared as a standard pattern to identify a specific image. In general, pattern recognition can recognize the shape of numbers and characters, recognize images, and read handwritten drawings. Here, processing is performed in the order of digitization of analog data, feature extraction, and collation.

In the example of FIG. 2, it is assumed that a seal is predetermined as the specific image. When the specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes that the specific image 200 based on the seal is included in the document image shown in FIG. 2A, the specific image recognition unit 111 sends the information to the control unit 107.
The control unit 107 adds a predetermined stamp image 210 in the vicinity of the specific image 200 to the document image temporarily stored in the image forming unit 102 in accordance with the control program stored in the control program storage unit 105. To do. Here, as shown in FIG. 2B, when there is a seal at a specific position, a stamp image 210 “confidential” is added. The document image to which the stamp image 210 is added is printed out by the image forming unit 102.

The contents of the stamp image 210 with respect to the specific image 200 can be set by the user, and the addition position of the stamp image 210 with respect to the specific image 200 can be set in advance to any position of the specific image 200 in the vertical and horizontal directions. it can. In addition to the vicinity of the specific image 200, the stamp image 210 can be set to be added to any position of the recording paper, such as the top, bottom, left and right edges of the recording paper, regardless of the position of the specific image 200. Also good.
In the case of the example in FIG. 2, the stamp image 210 is set to be added near the upper portion of the specific image 200.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining another example of a stamp image added according to a specific image.
As the specific image to which the stamp image is added, handwritten characters or handwritten symbols can be used.
The specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes a specific image of handwritten characters and handwritten symbols included in the document image read by the image reading unit 101. In this case as well, conventionally known techniques can be applied to the recognition of handwritten characters and symbols in the specific image recognition unit 111, and pattern recognition or characteristic identification can be used. For example, when image recognition is performed by pattern recognition, an image whose image recognition rate is lower than a predetermined value can be determined to be a handwritten image.

When the specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes that the handwritten specific image 200 is included in the document image shown in FIG. 3A, the specific image recognition unit 111 sends the information to the control unit 107.
The control unit 107 adds a predetermined stamp image 210 in the vicinity of the specific image 200 to the document image temporarily stored in the image forming unit 102 in accordance with the control program stored in the control program storage unit 105. To do. Here, as shown in FIG. 3B, when there is a handwritten character or symbol at a specific position, a stamp image 210 of “change” is added. The document image to which the stamp image 210 is added is printed out by the image forming unit 102.

In the case of the example of FIG. 3, the specific image 200 includes a character display unit 211 containing characters “change” and an arrow unit 212 that points in the direction of the specific image 200.
The contents of these character display sections 211 can be set by the user, and further, the presence / absence of the display of the arrow section 212 and the display direction thereof can be set by the user. For example, when the stamp image 210 is added in the vicinity of the right side of the specific image 200, the arrow part 212 can be set to automatically face the left side.

In addition to the position near the specific image 200, the stamp image 210 can be set to be added to any position on the recording paper such as the top, bottom, left, and right edges of the recording paper regardless of the position of the specific image 200. May be.
In the case of the example in FIG. 2, the stamp image 210 is set to be added near the right side of the specific image 200.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining another example of the stamp image added according to the specific image.
When the stamp image 210 is added according to the recognized specific image 200, not only the stamp image 210 is added in the vicinity of the specific image 200 but also the specific image 200 as shown in the example of FIGS. The stamp image 210 can be set to be added.

Here, the symbol “*” is defined as the specific image 200 to which the stamp image is added. The specific image recognition unit 111 recognizes the specific image 200 included in the document image read by the image reading unit 101, and sends the information to the control unit 107.
In accordance with the control program stored in the control program storage unit 105, the control unit 107 replaces the specific image 200 with a predetermined stamp image 210 and adds the original image temporarily stored in the image forming unit 102. To do.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 4B, when a symbol “*” is present at a specific position, a stamp image 210 “corrected” is added. The document image to which the stamp image 210 is added is printed out by the image forming unit 102.

  Also in the example of FIG. 4, the specific image 200 includes a character display unit 211 containing characters “change” and an arrow unit 212 that points in the direction of the specific image 200. The contents of the character display unit 211, the presence or absence of display of the arrow unit 212, and the display direction of the arrow can be set by the user. In addition to the position near the specific image 200, the stamp image 210 can be set to be added to any position on the recording paper such as the top, bottom, left, and right edges of the recording paper regardless of the position of the specific image 200. May be.

  The replacement process of the stamp image 210 with respect to the specific image 200 as described above is performed not only for a specific symbol as shown in FIG. 4 but also for a specific symbol or design set as the specific image, or a handwritten character or handwritten symbol. Even can be applied.

Next, an operation procedure at the time of the stamp function setting process as described above will be described with reference to a screen example of the operation unit of the digital multi-function peripheral.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the operation unit of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and shows an example of the configuration of the operation panel of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. The operation unit panel 120 corresponds to the display unit 108 and the operation unit 109 in FIG. 1 and can be input by a touch panel.

  The operation panel 120 is provided with a main key 121 including a start key 121a and a clear (all release) key 121b. In addition to these, a numeric keypad 122, a printer key 123, a fax / image transmission key 124, a copy key 125, a job status key 126, a user setting key 127, and a touch panel 128 are provided.

  A printer key 123, a fax / image transmission key 124, a copy key 125, and a job status key 126 are keys for displaying a GUI (graphical user interface) corresponding to each of these keys on the touch panel 128.

The display on the touch panel 128 can be switched to the print mode screen by the printer key 123. The print mode is a mode for recalling original image data stored in the image storage unit 103 or the like as necessary and performing re-operation such as printing.
Further, a screen of a network scanner or a fax mode can be displayed on the touch panel 128 by the fax / image transmission key 124.

  A copy mode screen can be displayed on the touch panel 128 by the copy key 125. Further, the current job status can be displayed on the touch panel 128 by the job status key 126. As the job status, for example, a list of jobs being reserved / executed or completed can be displayed. On this screen, it is possible to confirm the contents of the job, move the printing order during reservation, or cancel a specific job.

  The user setting key 127 is a key for shifting the display screen of the touch panel 128 to the user setting screen. On the user setting screen, registration, correction, and deletion of document filing user names and folder names, or key operator programs and printer environment settings can be performed.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a basic screen of the touch panel 128 in the copy mode. On the basic screen of the copy mode, there are a copy density key 128a for displaying / setting copy density, a paper key 128b for displaying / setting paper selection, and a magnification key 128c for displaying / setting copy magnification. Is displayed.
Further, on this basic screen, a special function key 128d for setting special functions such as margin setting, frame erasing, large-volume original mode, tandem copy, double-sided copy key 128e for setting single-sided / double-sided copying, image data An output key 128f or the like for outputting is displayed.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an authentication input screen for entering the stamp function setting screen.
The stamp function can be set only by a key operator having a specific setting authority such as a service person or an administrator of the apparatus.
In this case, first, when the user setting key 127 shown in FIG. 5 is pressed, a user setting screen 130 as shown in FIG. 6A is displayed. The user setting screen 130 displays setting item keys such as a total used number display 131, a screen contrast 132, a data list print 133, a date / time setting 134, a paper feed tray setting 135, a destination registration 136, and the like. Settings can be made according to each item according to the item key.

  The user setting screen 130 is further provided with a key operator program key 137, and when pressed, a key operator code input screen 140 as shown in FIG. 6B is displayed. Then, the key operator inputs a predetermined code to the key operator code input unit 141 (FIG. 6C).

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a menu screen of the key operator program.
When the code input on the key operator code input screen of FIG. 6C is authenticated, a key operator program menu screen 150 as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed.
On the menu screen 150 of the key operator program, a department management key 151 for setting the number of sheets for each department and a limit on the number of used sheets, an energy saving setting key 152 for making energy saving settings such as a save mode, key touch sound and auto An operation setting key 153 for performing settings related to operations such as a clear mode, a device setting key 154 for setting prohibition of use of peripheral devices, and a system management setting key 155 for performing various system management settings are provided. It is done.

  Further, on the menu screen 150 of the key operator program, a copy setting key 156 for setting various copy conditions such as density and magnification in the copy mode, and various conditions for fax transmission and image (image) transmission are set. Fax / image transmission setting key 157, a list that can be printed only by a key operator, a list / report print key 158 for printing a report, a key operator code change key 159 for changing a key operator code and a registration number, a product A product key input key 160 for performing a key (password) input operation and a stamp setting key 161 according to the present invention are provided.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a setting screen for the stamp function. When the stamp setting key 161 is pressed on the key operator code input screen of FIG. 7, the screen shifts to a stamp function setting screen 170 as shown in FIG.
On the stamp function setting screen 170, a check box 171 for setting a specific symbol and a check box 173 for setting a handwritten character are set. By checking any of these, the user can specify the type of stamp image to be added to the document image.

In this case, the specific symbols can include specific symbols, figures, designs, and the like. Handwritten characters can also include handwritten symbols.
Alternatively, check box settings may be individually set for these specific symbols, figures, designs, handwritten characters, and handwritten symbols.

  For the specific symbol, a box 172 for specifically specifying the specific symbol is set. In this box 172, a pull-down menu is displayed by pointing with the cursor, and an arbitrary symbol can be designated as a specific image from the menu.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a detailed setting screen for the stamp function. In FIG. 8, when a detailed setting button 174 is pressed, a detailed setting screen 180 as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed.
In the detailed setting screen 180, a check box 181 for setting a method for adding the stamp image 210, a check box 182 for setting the addition position of the stamp image 210, and a check box for setting whether or not to display an arrow on the stamp image. 183 is set.

In the check box 181 for setting the addition method of the stamp image 210, one of “the vicinity of the specific image”, “the edge of the recording paper”, and “replace with the specific image” is selected as the addition position of the stamp image 200. be able to.
In the check box 182 for setting the additional position of the stamp image 210, the additional position of the stamp image 210 set by the above check box can be set.

For example, when “near the specific image” is selected as the stamp image adding method and “right” is selected as the stamp image adding position, the predetermined stamp image 210 is added to the right side of the specific image 200.
When “recording paper edge” is selected as the stamp image adding method and “right” is selected as the stamp image adding position, the stamp image is added to the right edge of the recording paper.
In addition, when “replace with a specific image” is selected as the stamp image adding method, the setting position of the stamp image can be invalidated.

  In the detailed setting screen 180, a box 184 for specifically designating the stamp image 210 is set. In the box 184, a pull-down menu is displayed by pointing with the cursor, and arbitrary contents can be designated as the stamp image 210 from the menu. In the example of FIG. 9, “change” is designated as the stamp image.

Further, a check box 183 for setting whether or not to display an arrow in the stamp image 210 is set on the detailed setting screen 180. According to the selection of this check box, the stamp image 210 is displayed / hidden. In the example of FIG. 9, “with arrow” is set.
A display example 185 of the stamp image 210 according to the setting on the detailed setting screen 180 at this time is displayed on the detailed setting screen 180.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
First, a specific image is given to the document by the user (step S1). In this case, for example, the original document is corrected or added by handwriting. At this time, it is assumed that handwritten characters / symbols are set as specific images in the image processing apparatus.

Then, the user sets a document on the image processing apparatus (step S2). If it is set to add a stamp image (step S3-YES), the document is scanned (step S4), and it is determined whether the document image has a specific image (for example, handwritten characters) (step S5). .
When there is a specific image in the document image, the stamp image is added to the document image according to the setting of the stamp image (step S6) and printed (step S7).

If the stamp image is not added in step S3, the document is scanned as it is (step S8) and printed (step S7).
Further, even if there is no specific image in the original image in step S5, printing is performed as it is (step S7).

Next, a specific configuration example of a digital multi-function peripheral to which the image processing apparatus of the present invention can be applied will be described.
FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the digital multifunction peripheral, and FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral.
The digital multi-function peripheral 1 can selectively execute a copy mode, a facsimile mode, and a printer mode. In the copy mode, the original image is read and printed on a recording sheet. In the facsimile mode, an original image can be read and transmitted by facsimile, or the original image can be received and printed on recording paper. In the printer mode, an image received from the information terminal device via the network can be printed on recording paper.

The digital multi-function peripheral 1 includes an image reading unit 2, an image forming unit 3, a paper feeding unit 4, a paper discharge processing device 5, and a USB interface 7 when roughly classified.
The operation of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will be described below by taking the copy mode as an example.
First, when a document is set on the document setting tray 11 of the image reading unit 2, the document detection sensor 12 detects that the document is set. Then, the user operates the operation panel 120 of the image reading unit 2 to input and set the print paper size, magnification, etc., and instruct the start of copying.

  In response to the above operation, the image reading unit 2 pulls out each document on the document setting tray 11 one by one by the pickup roller 13, and sends the document from between the baffle plate 14 and the conveying roller 15 to the platen glass 16. Then, the document is transported on the platen glass 16 in the sub-scanning direction and discharged to the document discharge tray 17. Presence / absence of a document on the document discharge tray 17 is detected by a document discharge tray sensor 25.

  At this time, the first reading unit 21 reads the surface (lower side) of the document. Here, the first scanning unit 23 of the first reading unit 21 is moved and positioned at a predetermined position, and the second scanning unit 24 is positioned at a predetermined position. The exposure lamp of the first scanning unit 23 irradiates the surface of the original image through the platen glass 16, and the reflected light of the original is imaged by the reflection mirrors of the first and second scanning units 23 and 24. To 26. Further, the reflected light of the original is condensed on a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 27 by the imaging lens 26, and an image of the surface of the original is formed on the CCD 27. Thereby, the image on the surface of the document can be read.

  The image on the back side (upper side) of the document is read by the second reading unit 22. The second reading unit 22 is disposed above the platen glass 16 and condenses the reflected light of the document for each pixel and an exposure lamp (LED (Light Emitting Diode) array, fluorescent lamp, etc.) that irradiates the back side of the document. It includes a Selfoc lens array, a contact image sensor (CIS) that photoelectrically converts reflected light of a document received through the Selfoc lens array, and outputs an analog image signal.

Further, by opening the upper housing of the image reading unit 2 and placing the document on the platen glass 16, the first reading unit 21 can read the surface of the document. In this case, the first and second scanning units 23 and 24 are moved in the sub-scanning direction while maintaining a predetermined speed relationship with each other, and the original on the platen glass 16 is exposed by the first scanning unit 23.
Then, the first and second scanning units 23 and 24 guide reflected light from the document to the imaging lens 26, and the imaging lens 26 forms an image of the document on the CCD 27.

  When the single-sided or double-sided original image is read in this way, image data indicating the single-sided or double-sided original image is input to a control unit such as a microcomputer, and various image processing is performed on the image data, thereby the image forming unit 3. Is output.

  The image forming unit 3 prints an image of a document indicated by image data on a recording sheet. The image forming unit 3 is a photosensitive drum 31, a charging device 32, a laser scanning unit (hereinafter referred to as LSU) 33, a developing device 34, a transfer device. A device 35, a cleaning device 36, a fixing device 37, and the like are provided. Further, a static eliminator (not shown) is provided.

  The image forming unit 3 is provided with a main conveyance path 38 and a reverse conveyance path 39, and the recording sheet fed from the sheet feeding unit 4 is conveyed along the main conveyance path 38. The paper feed unit 4 pulls out the recording paper stored in the paper cassette 41 or the recording paper placed on the manual feed tray 42 one by one, and sends the recording paper to the main conveyance path 38 of the image forming unit 3. .

  While the recording paper is being conveyed along the main conveyance path 38, the recording paper passes between the photosensitive drum 31 and the transfer device 35, and further passes through the fixing device 37, and printing on the recording paper is performed. Done. The photosensitive drum 31 rotates in one direction, and the surface thereof is cleaned by the cleaning device 36 and the static eliminator, and then uniformly charged by the charging device 32.

  The laser scanning unit 33 modulates laser light based on the image data from the image reading unit 2 and repeatedly scans the surface of the photosensitive drum 31 in the main scanning direction to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 31. To do. The developing device 34 supplies toner to the surface of the photosensitive drum 31 to develop the electrostatic latent image, and forms a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 31. The transfer device 35 transfers the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 31 onto a recording sheet passing between the transfer device 35 and the photosensitive drum 31. The fixing device 37 heats and pressurizes the recording paper to fix the toner image on the recording paper.

A branching claw 43 is disposed at a connection position between the main conveyance path 38 and the reverse conveyance path 39. When printing on only one side of the recording paper, the branching claw 43 is positioned, and the recording paper from the fixing device 37 is guided to the paper discharge tray 44 or the paper discharge processing device 5 by the branching claw 43.
When printing on both sides of the recording paper, the branching claw 43 is rotated to the position indicated by the dotted line, and the recording paper is guided toward the reverse conveyance path 39. Then, the recording paper passes through the reverse conveyance path 39, the front and back thereof are reversed, and is conveyed again to the main conveyance path 38. Then, printing is performed on the back surface of the main conveyance path 38 during the second conveyance, and the paper is guided to the paper discharge tray 44 or the paper discharge processing device 5.

The recording paper printed in this way is guided to the paper discharge tray 44 or the paper discharge processing device 5 and discharged to either the paper discharge tray 44 or each paper discharge tray 5a of the paper discharge processing device 5.
In the paper discharge processing device 5, a plurality of recording papers can be sorted and discharged to each paper discharge tray 5 a, punching processing can be performed on each recording paper, and stapling processing can be performed on each recording paper. For example, when creating a plurality of printed materials, each recording sheet is sorted and discharged to each paper discharge tray 5a so that a part of the printed material is allocated to each paper discharge tray 5a. Further, for each paper discharge tray 5a, punched processing or stapling processing is performed on each recording sheet on the paper discharge tray 5a to create a printed matter.

It is a block diagram for demonstrating the function of the image processing apparatus by this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the stamp image added according to a specific image. It is a figure for demonstrating the other example of the stamp image added according to a specific image. It is a figure for demonstrating the other example of the stamp image added according to a specific image. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation unit of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and illustrates a configuration example of an operation panel of the digital multifunction peripheral illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a figure which shows the example of an authentication input screen for entering into the setting screen of a stamp function. It is a figure which shows the example of a menu screen of a key operator program. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting screen of a stamp function. It is a figure which shows the example of a detailed setting screen of a stamp function. It is a flowchart for demonstrating an example of the process in the image processing apparatus concerning this invention. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a digital multi-function peripheral. 1 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Digital multifunction device, 2 ... Image reading part, 3 ... Image formation part, 4 ... Paper feed part, 5 ... Paper discharge processing apparatus, 5a ... Paper discharge tray, 7 ... USB interface, 8 ... Display part, 11 ... Document Set tray, 12 ... Document detection sensor, 13 ... Pickup roller, 14 ... Sabaki plate, 15 ... Conveying roller, 16 ... Platen glass, 17 ... Document discharge tray, 21 ... First reading unit, 22 ... Second reading unit, 23 , 24 ... scanning unit, 25 ... document discharge tray sensor, 26 ... imaging lens, 27 ... CCD, 30 ... user setting screen, 31 ... photosensitive drum, 32 ... charging device, 33 ... laser scanning unit, 34 ... developing device 35 ... Transfer device, 36 ... Cleaning device, 37 ... Fixing device, 38 ... Main transport path, 39 ... Reverse transport path, 41 ... Paper cassette, 42 ... Manual feed tray, 43 ... Branch claw, 44 ... Exhaust Tray 100... Image processing apparatus 101. Image reading unit 102. Image forming unit 103. Image storage unit 104. Stamp image adding unit 105. Control program storage unit 106. RAM 107. DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS ... Display part 109 ... Operation part 110 ... Modem part 111 ... Specific image recognition part 112 ... NW communication part 113 ... Management part 120 ... Operation panel 121 ... Main key 121a ... Start key 121b ... Clear (All cancel) key, 122 ... Numeric keypad, 123 ... Printer key, 124 ... Fax / image transmission key, 125 ... Copy key, 126 ... Job status key, 127 ... User setting key, 128 ... Touch panel, 128a ... Copy density key, 128b ... paper key, 128c ... magnification key, 128d ... special function key, 128e ... duplex copy key 128f ... output key, 130 ... user setting screen, 131 ... total display number display, 132 ... screen contrast, 133 ... data list print, 134 ... date / time setting, 135 ... feed tray setting, 136 ... destination registration, 137 Key operator program key 140 Key operator code input screen 141 Key operator code input section 150 Menu screen 151 Department management key 152 Energy saving setting key 153 Operation setting key 154 Device setting key 155 ... System management setting key, 156 ... Copy setting key, 157 ... Fax / image transmission setting key, 158 ... List / report print key, 159 ... Key operator code change key, 160 ... Product key input key, 161 ... Stamp setting Key, 17 0 ... Stamp function setting screen, 171 ... Check box, 172 ... Box, 173 ... Check box, 174 ... Detailed setting button, 180 ... Detailed setting screen, 181 ... Check box, 182 ... Check box, 183 ... Check box, 184 ... Box, 185 ... display example, 200 ... specific image, 210 ... stamp image, 211 ... character display part, 212 ... arrow part.

Claims (9)

An image reading unit for reading a document image recorded on a recording medium;
A specific image recognition unit for recognizing a predetermined specific type of image from a document image read by the image reading unit;
An image processing apparatus comprising: a stamp image adding unit that adds a predetermined stamp image to the original image when the specific image recognizing unit recognizes the specific image.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stamp image adding unit adds the stamp image in the vicinity of the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stamp image adding unit replaces the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit with the stamp image.   4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit is an image indicating any one of a predetermined symbol, a figure, and a design. Image processing device.   4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specific image recognized by the specific image recognition unit is an image indicating a handwritten character or a handwritten symbol. 5.   6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stamp image added to the document image can be variably set.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of images can be combined as the stamp image.   8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the document image to which the stamp image is applied is an image for printing, storage, or transmission.   9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is a copying apparatus, a facsimile apparatus, or a combination of the copying apparatus and the facsimile apparatus. Processing equipment.

Images