CN1261754A

CN1261754A - Image reader, black picture element research method and white paper original manuscript detecting method

Info

Publication number: CN1261754A
Application number: CN99126461A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 横野政治; 荻原洋生
Original assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Current assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Priority date: 1998-12-24
Filing date: 1999-12-22
Publication date: 2000-08-02
Anticipated expiration: 2019-12-22
Also published as: DE19961750B4; JP4061787B2; CN100388750C; KR100304018B1; DE19961750A1; KR20000048354A; JP2001143050A

Abstract

The invention relates to an image reader for detecting white paper original manuscript, black picture element research method and white paper original manuscript detecting method. A threshold corresponding to each linear density is stored previously in a RAM 9, and in the case of reading out an original, the set linear density of the original is discriminated by a linear density discrimination part 14, a current threshold is switched to a threshold, corresponding to the linear density by a threshold selection part 15 and a setting part 16 for detecting a blank original. The threshold corresponding to each linear density and stored in the RAM 9 can be changed automatically, on the basis of a change instruction from a user or the number of black pixels read out from an original, having many white parts and required to be processed as a normal original. The blank original is able to be detected efficiently and accurately, according to an application environment.

Description

Image read-out, black pixel search method and blank sheet of paper document detecting method

The present invention relates to picture unit, the scanner that is connected with computer or be provided with photocopier of original copy automatic paper feeding function etc., original copy is scanned from the image read-out of this original copy reads image data, more particularly, relate to image read-out and black pixel search method and the blank sheet of paper document detecting method that is suitable for detecting efficiently and accurately the blank sheet of paper original copy.

In the past, at picture unit, the scanner that is connected with computer or be provided with in the image read-out of photocopier etc. of original copy automatic paper feeding function, mounting was as the original copy occasion of reading object, according to the positive and negative that reads the determining positions original copy of imageing sensor.Below, there are information, reverse side not to have the original copy of record whatever the front note as object.When getting this original copy positive and negative wrong the mounting occasion, the copy of blank sheet of paper image information is exported, and the result has wasted communication expense and record-paper.

In order to address the above problem, for example having proposed, the spy opens flat 5-48835 communique etc.But, in the image read-out of picture unit that this communique is put down in writing etc., judge institute's original copy that reads whether during blank sheet of paper, when the view data of a line all is white formation one page part occasion, this original copy is judged as blank sheet of paper.Therefore, when sneaking into the such data of unwanted signal because of reasons such as image sensor performance in the data that read by imageing sensor, will be actually the blank sheet of paper original copy regardless of it, and can not be judged as blank sheet of paper.

Also propose the spy as prior art and opened flat 6-261168 communique.In the picture unit that this communique is put down in writing, the memory occasion of delivering letters, if available point (black pixel) number that is stored in each image information in the memory for the moment is all for setting below the numerical value, in addition, the occasion of delivering letters in real time sets the number consecutive hours, when available point (black pixel) number of image information for setting below the numerical value, judge the positive and negative mounting of putting upside down of original copy, export this information.

, in the picture unit of this technology, many original copy occasions of mounting, decision needs the time before delivering letters or not delivering letters, and that is to say, even deliver letters occasion in real time, just reaches up to final page sometimes and sets number, at this moment delivers letters identically with memory, needs the time.As a result, whether the picture unit user normally reads in order to confirm, must monitor with not leaving picture unit, is all over up to reading the original copy action, and efficient is very low.

Open in the flat 10-229484 communique the spy, calculate the black pixel count of each line, judge whether original copy is blank sheet of paper, if the blank sheet of paper original copy is removed view data.The blank sheet of paper original copy testing agency of image read-out in the past is fixed with above-mentioned such blank sheet of paper original copy detection technique, and the user can not select blank sheet of paper original copy testing agency arbitrarily according to the device environment for use, and efficient is low.

The present invention puts forward in view of the existing problem of above-mentioned prior art, the objective of the invention is to, providing can high accuracy and detect image read-out and the black pixel search method and the blank sheet of paper document detecting method of blank sheet of paper original copy efficiently, improves performance, reliability and conveniences such as picture unit, scanning means.

To achieve these goals, the present invention proposes image read-out, and it stores corresponding with each line density threshold value in advance, differentiates original copy read line density, switches to and this line density corresponding threshold, detects the blank sheet of paper original copy.In this image read-out, show be stored in the storage part with each line density corresponding threshold, can indicate the threshold value of each shown line density of change according to the user.

At this moment, by showing the black pixel count of the original copy that counting gets, the user changes threshold operation easily.Perhaps read the user and wish, with the change and this line density corresponding threshold automatically of its black pixel count as the many original copys of the white part of original copy.

In addition, original copy forms occasion by lines or halftoning, is not only line density, also with selected read mode corresponding stored threshold value, according to the threshold test blank sheet of paper original copy that is suitable for most selected read mode.

To achieve these goals, the present invention proposes the black pixel search method of image read-out, it is that a main scanning line is divided into four sections, get wherein one section as each row reading object scope, and, back one be about to the previous row section of reading back one section as the reading object scope, deceive the retrieval of pixel every 1 byte for the section of reading respectively, the retrieval start address of each section hockets with odd and even number every four lines, is the black pixel of object detection with about 1/8th of original copy gross area.In the black pixel of retrieval, in searching object 1 byte 1 or 2 s' isolated point is regarded the flase drop of imageing sensor as and is surveyed, and not counting is black pixel.

Be provided with the program that some countings are deceived pixel count by line density and original copy read mode, corresponding with selected line density and original copy read mode, changeover program is counted black pixel count.

Differentiate and to be the blank sheet of paper occasion,, change to new threshold value according at this moment black pixel count if the user supports to force to deliver letters.For example, can behind the some times numbers of forcing to deliver letters, get its mean value, with this mean value as new threshold value.This change can be confirmed to carry out by the user.

Image read-out of the present invention and detection blank sheet of paper original copy method are provided with the 1st measuring ability in advance and (detect 1 blank sheet of paper original copy, just export testing result), the 2nd measuring ability (detect and just export testing result when setting number blank sheet of paper original copy), the 3rd measuring ability be (if judge that original copy all is not the blank sheet of paper original copy, just do not export testing result), the user can select one of them.Like this, the user can select only detection blank sheet of paper original copy function according to original copy, improves device performance and convenience.When notifying the user, action is stopped, the user can select to operate again or continue and handle, and has further improved the device convenience.

The following describes effect of the present invention.

According to the present invention, can be according to environment for use high Precision Detection blank sheet of paper original copy, and the user can select only detection blank sheet of paper original copy function according to original copy, has improved picture unit, scanning means or has been provided with reliability, operability, convenience of the image read-outs such as photocopier that transport the original copy function automatically etc.

According to the present invention, can change threshold value automatically according to line density, according to device environment for use high Precision Detection blank sheet of paper original copy.

According to the present invention, in the image read-out that is provided with the automatic conveyer of two-sided original, can change threshold value automatically according to line density, according to device environment for use high Precision Detection blank sheet of paper original copy, can avoid flase drop to survey.

According to the present invention, in the image read-out that is provided with the automatic conveyer of two-sided original, can avoid the information output of useless blank sheet of paper original copy.

According to the present invention, the user can use the threshold test blank sheet of paper original copy of original copy kind according to the most suitable user by the threshold value of each line density of operation change.

According to the present invention, show the threshold value of each line density set, the user can be more accurate and be easily changed.

According to the present invention, can change automatically and various original copys and each line density corresponding threshold.

According to the present invention, original copy forms occasion by for example lines or halftoning, is not only line density, also with selected read mode corresponding stored threshold value, detects the blank sheet of paper original copy more accurately according to the threshold value that is suitable for most selected read mode.

According to the present invention, be provided with user's decision operation, avoid exporting blank sheet of paper original copy information and read action again, simultaneously, even the very light original copy of concentration also can read its image information of output.

According to the present invention, the black pixel count in the time of pressure being exported can detect the blank sheet of paper original copy more accurately automatically as threshold value.

According to the present invention, force to export some times mean value change threshold value by asking for, can correctly, stably detect the blank sheet of paper original copy.

According to the present invention, the user can select whether to change the threshold value that is used to judge whether the blank sheet of paper original copy according to the black pixel count by the original copy of forcing output device output by choice device, can avoid special original copy that the blank sheet of paper of common original copy is detected the bad influence that is brought.

According to the present invention, the user can select to detect the decision time of blank sheet of paper original copy information output from the plurality of detection device, and the user can select only detection blank sheet of paper original copy function according to original copy, has improved device performance and convenience.

According to the present invention, be provided with arresting stop and continue device, when the notice occasion is confirmed in output, arresting stop stops original copy reading images information, after stopping reading images information by arresting stop, if the user has " continuation " indication, then continue device control and continue to read original copy, further improved the convenience of device.

According to the present invention, can shorten the black pixel retrieval process time, improve black pixel recall precision.

According to the present invention, 1 or 2 isolated point in searching object 1 byte, as black pixel counts, can high accuracy, deceive pixel efficiently and retrieve.

According to the present invention, press the counting procedure of the black pixel of read mode storage in advance, according to the counting procedure corresponding black pixel is counted with user-selected read mode, can deceive the pixel retrieval accurately.

According to the present invention, press the counting procedure of the black pixel of line density storage in advance, according to the counting procedure corresponding black pixel is counted with line density, can deceive the pixel retrieval accurately.

Brief Description Of Drawings is as follows:

Fig. 1 is the formation block diagram of image read-out one embodiment that the present invention relates to;

Fig. 2 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 1st system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is the flow chart that the detection blank sheet of paper original copy of picture unit among Fig. 1 is handled the action example;

Fig. 4 is the part 1 key diagram of the black pixel retrieval process example that the present invention relates to, and wherein, Fig. 4 a detects black pixel map, and Fig. 4 b is A among Fig. 4 a, B part enlarged drawing;

Fig. 5 is the part 2 key diagram of the black pixel retrieval process example that the present invention relates to, and wherein, Fig. 5 a represents a point data, and Fig. 5 b represents two point data;

Fig. 6 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 2nd system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1;

Fig. 7 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Fig. 6;

Fig. 8 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 3rd system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1;

Fig. 9 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Fig. 8;

Figure 10 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 4th system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1;

Figure 11 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 10;

Figure 12 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 5th system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1;

Figure 13 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 12;

Figure 14 is the part 1 key diagram that detects the black pixel retrieval process example of blank sheet of paper system among Figure 12;

Figure 15 is the part 2 key diagram that detects the black pixel retrieval process example of blank sheet of paper system among Figure 12:

Figure 16 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 6th system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1;

Figure 17 is that the detection blank sheet of paper original copy that is provided with the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 16 is handled the routine flow chart of action;

Figure 18 is the block diagram of the another kind of configuration example of the image read-out that the present invention relates to;

Figure 19 is the configuration example block diagram of the detection blank sheet of paper original copy part of picture unit among Figure 18;

Figure 20 is the flow chart that the detection blank sheet of paper original copy of picture unit among Figure 18 is handled the action example;

Figure 21 is the flow chart of the processing action example of the 1st test section among Figure 19;

Figure 22 is the flow chart of the processing action example of the 2nd test section among Figure 19;

Figure 23 is the flow chart of the processing action example of the 3rd test section among Figure 19.

Figure 24 is the block diagram of another configuration example of image read-out that the present invention relates to;

Figure 25 is that reading of picture unit handled the routine flow chart of action among Figure 24;

Figure 26 is the flow chart that the action example is handled in the output of picture unit among Figure 24;

Figure 27 is that the another kind of picture unit reads the flow chart of handling the action example among Figure 24.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, describe the embodiment of the invention in detail.

Fig. 1 is the formation block diagram of image read-out one embodiment that the present invention relates to, the image read-out of present embodiment is a picture unit, connecting scanner 1, coding and decoding portion 2, video memory 3, plotter 4, operation display part 5, switch 6, central processing unit (Central Processing Unit by bus 12, below brief note is for CPU) 7, read-only memory (Read OnlyMemory, below brief note is ROM) 8, random access memory (Random Access Memory, below brief note is RAM) 9, modulator-demodulator 10, network control portion 11.

Scanner 1 reads original copy by connecting airtight type imageing sensor formations such as (Contact-type Image Sensor, below brief note is CIS).The original image data codeization that coding and decoding portion 2 will be read by above-mentioned scanner 1 is decoded to the trusted view data.View data and trusted view data that video memory 3 storages are read by scanner 1.

The view data that is used to duplicate that plotter 4 printing output trusted view data or scanner 1 read etc.Operation display part 5 is made of individual palpation key, LCD etc., can carry out handling with the output input of user session.Switch 6 is made of mains switch, main switch etc.

CPU7 control comprises the picture unit molar behavior of detection blank sheet of paper original copy action processing procedure of the present invention, and the operation program of ROM8 storage CPU7 etc., RAM9 are stored in the data that CPU7 produces etc.

10 pairs of picture units of modulator-demodulator send the view data of trusted to carry out modulation treatment and demodulation process, and network control portion 11 carries out by the phone loop line and the control that is connected the other side's device.

In the picture unit of above-mentioned formation, CPU7, ROM8 and RAM9 etc. constitute detection blank sheet of paper original copy system shown in Figure 2.

Fig. 2 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 1st system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1, the detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of the 1st system's configuration example is made up of scanner 1, operation display part 5, RAM9, threshold value control handling part 13 and original copy judegment part 17, wherein, threshold value control handling part 13 and original copy judegment part 17 are made of CPU7, ROM8 and RAM9 etc. respectively.

Threshold value control handling part 13 comprises line density judegment part 14, threshold value selection portion 15 and configuration part 16.Line density judegment part 14 is differentiated the line density of user by operation display part 5 indications, and notification threshold selection portion 15; Threshold value selection portion 15 is with reference to the black threshold number of pixels list by line density that is registered in advance among the RAM9, and is specific and above-mentioned from the corresponding black threshold number of pixels of the line density of line density judegment part 14, and notice configuration part 16; Configuration part 16 utilizes the above-mentioned black threshold number of pixels from threshold value selection portion 15 of RAM9 storage.

Original copy judegment part 17 comprises pixel count count section 18 and compares judegment part 19.18 pairs of pixel count count section are counted by the black pixel count of the view data that scanner 1 reads, and with result notification judegment part 19 relatively; Relatively judegment part 19 compares above-mentioned black threshold number of pixels of being stored from the black pixel count and the configuration part 16 of pixel count count section 18, and whether the view data that differentiation is read by scanner 1 the blank sheet of paper original copy.

Be provided with the processing action of the picture unit shown in Figure 1 of this detection blank sheet of paper original copy system with reference to Fig. 3 explanation, Fig. 3 is the flow chart that the detection blank sheet of paper original copy of picture unit among Fig. 1 is handled the action example.

In step 301, when beginning to read original copy, the user selects a kind of line density from some kinds of read line density, in step 302, read the threshold value that in advance be registered in detection blank sheet of paper in Fig. 1 RAM9 corresponding by selected line density with this line density, then, begin to read original copy, detect black pixel count in step 304 in step 303.

Judge in step 305 whether read original copy finishes, if finish ("Yes" of step 305) then black pixel count in step 306 is determined original copy, the threshold value of from RAM9, reading in the more above-mentioned black pixel count of step 307 and step 302, if black pixel count is than above-mentioned threshold value hour ("Yes" of step 307), then the blank sheet of paper in the RAM9 is detected mark set, be judged as in step 309 and read the blank sheet of paper original copy in step 308.If when black pixel count is bigger than above-mentioned threshold value ("No" of step 307), then the blank sheet of paper in the RAM9 is detected the mark reset, is judged as in step 311 and reads common original copy in step 310.

Mark SM set mode occasion in the above-mentioned RAM9, the CPU7 of Fig. 1 by operation display part 5 display part or buzzer reads to user notification is the blank sheet of paper original copy, interrupt that the original image data communicate toward the storage of video memory 3 and by modulator-demodulator 10, network control portion 11 etc.Perhaps also can not carry out above-mentioned interruption, what only display part by operation display part 5 or buzzer read to user's warning is the blank sheet of paper original copy.

Below with reference to the black pixel retrieval technique that Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 explanation the present invention relates to, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 are the key diagrams of the black pixel retrieval process example that the present invention relates to.

With a line one lines such as CIS read original copy, by following such black pixel of retrieving in the image that is sent to the line buffering area.

Main scanning one line is divided into four sections,, in this object section, retrieves earlier every a byte with one of above-mentioned four sections searching object scope as this line.For ensuing line, with above-mentioned as object range the section the back the section as object range.

In Fig. 4 a, represent the searching object scope with doublet, the 1st line with the A section as object range, the 2nd line with above-mentioned A section back section as object range, 3rd, 4 lines all distinguish an above line object range section the back section as object range, the 5th line with the B section corresponding with above-mentioned A section as object range.

About the retrieval start address, hocket every four lines " odd number begins " and " even number begins ".Shown in Fig. 4 b, the A object range begins with odd number, and the B object range begins with even number.That is to say, the A object range from initial address, be that odd address (the * label the figure) begins retrieval, the B object range since the 2nd address (the * label among the figure), be even address retrieval.Black pixel count to the pixel location data (byte) of * is counted.

In addition, do not retrieve for the both sides 8mm in original copy top 10mm, a line (8 byte) part.

Above-mentioned such retrieval is the black pixel of object retrieval with about 1/8th of original copy gross area, has reduced treating capacity, has improved processing speed.

Specifically, the docuterm joint number that reads in width one line is as follows:

A4 closes in the wide field: [(216 bytes-16 byte)/4]/2=25 byte

B4 closes in the wide field: [(256 bytes-16 byte)/4]/2=30 byte

As shown in Figure 5,1 pixel in 1 byte of searching object (Fig. 5 a) or the isolated point of 2 pixels (Fig. 5 b) not as black pixel counts.

Below with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 detection blank sheet of paper original copy of the present invention system the 2nd example is described, Fig. 6 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 2nd system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1, and Fig. 7 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Fig. 6.

The detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of the 2nd system's configuration example is made up of operation display part 5, RAM9 and threshold value renewal portion 20, and wherein, threshold value renewal portion 20 is made of the CPU7 among Fig. 1, ROM8 and RAM9 etc.This threshold value renewal portion 20 comprises that the threshold value of distinguishing by line density represents portion 21 and threshold value changing unit 22.

This configuration example is in order further to improve the operability of Fig. 2 structure.Specifically,, may differentiate benchmark difference because of user's difference for blank sheet of paper for each user, thereby, in this configuration example, the user can easily be changed detect the blank sheet of paper threshold value.

Represent that by the threshold value that line density is distinguished portion 21 reads each read line density and the detection blank sheet of paper threshold value corresponding with it that is registered among the RAM9, the LCD 5a of operation display part 5 goes up expression threshold value change picture 5b.The user is altered to the threshold value that is suitable for user's environment for use by the key of operation display part 5 with the detection blank sheet of paper threshold value under each line density, pushes definite key (for example " yes " key etc.).

According to above-mentioned key operation result in operation display part 5, the register content of threshold value changing unit 22 change RAM9.RAM9 is connected with the back stand-by power supply, only otherwise change this threshold value, even the mains switch disconnection also can keep present value.

Action is handled in the change that above-mentioned blank sheet of paper threshold value is described below with reference to Fig. 7.

In step 701, the threshold value that operation display part 5 expressions are distinguished by each line density, judge the indication that has or not from the change threshold value of operation display part 5 in step 702, if change threshold value indication ("Yes" of step 702) is arranged, then at the temporary transient changed content of storing in the change indication of step 703, wait in step 704 and to press " determining " key, if " determining " key is pressed ("Yes" of step 704), then in step 705 with the register content in the changed content replacement RAM9 of temporary transient storage.

Below with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 detection blank sheet of paper original copy of the present invention system the 3rd example is described, Fig. 8 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 3rd system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1, and Fig. 9 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Fig. 8.

The detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of the 3rd system's configuration example represents that by scanner 1, operation display part 5, RAM9, original copy judegment part 17, threshold value renewal portion 20 and pixel count portion 23 forms.Wherein, original copy judegment part 17 as shown in Figure 2, threshold value renewal portion 20 as shown in Figure 6, they are made of the CPU7 among Fig. 1, ROM8 and RAM9 etc.

This configuration example is in order further to improve the operability of Fig. 6 structure.Specifically, the user reads as MIN original copy with scanner 1 earlier, and so-called MIN original copy is meant that the user wants to be judged as the minimum benchmark original copy of image.Pixel count at 18 pairs of these original copys of pixel count count section of original copy judegment part 17 is counted, and represents that by pixel count the pixel count that portion 23 is illustrated in The above results the LCD 5a of operation display part 5 detects on the picture 5c.

The user is with reference to the expression content of this pixel count detection picture 5c, and passing threshold change picture 5b changes threshold value, promptly deceives pixel count, can change to desirable threshold value at an easy rate.And above-mentioned change passing threshold renewal as a result portion 20 is reflected among the RAM9.

Below with reference to Fig. 9 above-mentioned threshold value change processing action is described.

In step 901, with scanner 1 read user's mounting as MIN original copy, it is the original copy that the user wants to be judged as the minimum benchmark of conduct of image, by common detection blank sheet of paper original copy action, detect the black pixel count output (step 902) of the above-mentioned original image data that read, and its black pixel count is illustrated in the pixel count detection picture 5c last (step 903) of the LCD 5a of operation display part 5.

In the indication of step 904, carry out processing shown in Figure 7, the registration threshold value in the change RAM9 according to the expression content alteration threshold value of user's reference pixels number detection picture 5c.

Below with reference to Figure 10 and Figure 11 detection blank sheet of paper original copy of the present invention system the 4th example is described, Figure 10 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 4th system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1, and Figure 11 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 10.

The detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of the 4th system's configuration example upgrades configuration part 24 by scanner 1, operation display part 5, RAM9 and threshold value and forms, and wherein, threshold value is upgraded configuration part 24 and is made of the CPU7 among Fig. 1, ROM8 and RAM9 etc.

Upgrade configuration part 24 in threshold value and be provided with line density particular portion 25, black pixel count count section 26, pixel count calculating part 27 and threshold value renewal portion 28, by this formation, the detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of this configuration example can automatically carry out among Fig. 8 system user according to the change threshold operation of line density.

Specifically, 24 differentiation users select the threshold value of native system examples to change pattern automatically by operation display part 5 if threshold value is upgraded the configuration part, and then expression detects the blank sheet of paper threshold value and changes picture 5d automatically on the LCD 5a of operation display part 5.Automatically change under the picture 5d show state in this detection blank sheet of paper threshold value, the user earlier by scanner 1 with common key operation select desirable read line density read user's mounting as MIN original copy, be the original copy that the user wants to be judged as image as minimum benchmark, for example on blank sheet of paper, only push the original copy of a simple seal, read in this selected line density by line density particular portion 25 and temporarily be stored among the RAM9.

Black pixel count in black 26 pairs of above-mentioned original image data that read of pixel count count section is counted, pixel count calculating part 27 with above-mentioned counting and on duty with for example 0.7, make black pixel count have coefficient of safety.

And passing threshold renewal portion 28 is with the threshold value of above-mentioned black pixel count as new detection blank sheet of paper, in the above-mentioned corresponding RAM9 of registering to of line density that temporarily is stored among the RAM9.

Like this, counting and black pixel count be 100 occasions, the threshold value of new detection blank sheet of paper is 70, after the threshold setting of the detection blank sheet of paper that this is new finishes, when read with the line density of setting detect and black pixel count be 70 following occasions, be judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy.Therefore, the original copy that is read (black pixel count is 100) for the threshold value 70 of the above-mentioned detection blank sheet of paper that is used to determine that this is new will can not be judged as blank sheet of paper.

Action is handled in the change that this threshold value is described with reference to Figure 11, and Figure 11 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 10.

In step 1101, the threshold value that for example detects blank sheet of paper in the liquid crystal display displays of operation display part 5 changes picture automatically, then, in step 1102, the minimum level original copy (original copys that blank parts is many) that the user will want to be judged as common original copy is set on the scanner 1, in step 1103, select read line density, in step 1104, push initiating key, begin to read original copy by scanner 1.

Step

1105,1106 detects black pixel count in reading action, if detected original copy one page part, the black pixel count in step 1107 is determined original copy then, in step 1108 above-mentioned black pixel count be multiply by 0.7, step 1109 with above-mentioned numerical value as with the threshold value of the corresponding detection blank sheet of paper of selected read line density in step 1103, upgrade the register content of RAM9.

Then, whether change the picture of the threshold value of the pairing detection blank sheet of paper of other read line density in liquid crystal display displays, if user's indication is changed ("Yes" of step 1110) to the threshold value of the pairing detection blank sheet of paper of other read line density, then repeat from the processing of step 1 102 beginnings, if ("No" of step 1110) do not changed in user's indication, then, make picture get back to standby picture, end process in step 1111.

With reference to Fig. 1-11 picture unit as image read-out has been described above, to be stored among the RAM9 with each line density corresponding threshold in advance, the line density that sets when reading original copy with 14 judgements of line density detection unit, passing threshold selection portion 15 and configuration part 16, the threshold value that detects blank sheet of paper is switched to and this line density corresponding threshold, detect the blank sheet of paper original copy.

To be stored in being illustrated on the operation display part 5 among the RAM9 by the threshold value display part of distinguishing by line density 21 with the line density corresponding threshold, according to customer requirements change indication, the memory contents in the passing threshold changing unit 22 change RAM9.

At this moment, represent portion 23 by pixel count, the black pixel count of original copy that will be got by pixel count count section 18 countings is illustrated on the operation display part 5, and the user is easy to carry out the threshold value alter operation.Perhaps read the user and think the conduct bottom line original copy of original copy usually, multiply by 0.7 according to the black pixel count that is read at pixel count calculating part 27, passing threshold renewal portion 28, will be corresponding with this line density be stored in that threshold value in the RAM9 changes to above-mentioned pixel count calculating part 27 automatically and value.

In this black pixel search method, one main scanning line is divided into four sections, get wherein one section reading object scope as each line, and, the back one line get the last line section of getting back one section as the reading object scope, the section of reading deceive the retrieval of pixel every a byte, the retrieval start address of each section is every four line odd number even numbers alternately.

Like this, be the retrieval that object is deceived pixel with about 1/8th of original copy area, reduced treating capacity, can deceive the pixel retrieval process at a high speed.With in the byte of searching object a bit or 2 such isolated points flase drop of regarding imageing sensor as survey, as black pixel counts.

Below, detection blank sheet of paper original copy system the 5th example that explanation the present invention relates to reference to Figure 12-15, threshold value is selected in the corresponding control with the setting of read mode (the reading object original copy is half tone original or common line copy) of this example.

That is to say, for the pattern that reads original copy (lines, halftoning) only with a kind of words that detect the threshold value correspondence of blank sheet of paper, according to the feature of the image that read output (for example, halftoning output is with the output of choice refreshments aggregate), in the following example, even be actually the original copy of wishing to regard as blank sheet of paper, also might can not be judged as blank sheet of paper.

For example, paper substrate is dark with the read mode of halftoning reads occasion as original copy, even how much exist the depth poor, dark part is read as image.At this moment, though in fact there is not image on the original copy,, it is very big as the possibility of many black pixels outputs carefully to read the original copy basal part.As a result, even there is not the image occasion on the original copy, the black pixel count that is read is more than read occasion with line patterns, even can be judged as the blank sheet of paper occasion with line patterns, also has the possibility that can not be judged as blank sheet of paper with the halftoning pattern

For above-mentioned such problem, use the detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of structure shown in Figure 12, Figure 12 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 5th system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1.

The detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of the 5th system's configuration example is made up of scanner 1, operation display part 5, RAM9, threshold value control handling part 13a and original copy judegment part 17a, wherein, threshold value control handling part 13a and original copy judegment part 17a are made of the CPU7 among Fig. 1, ROM8 and RAM9 etc.

In this example, store the threshold value of a series of black pixel counts of distinguishing by read mode (the reading object original copy is half tone original or common line copy) corresponding in advance with each line density at RAM9, in addition, the black pixel counts program corresponding with read mode and line density, that undertaken by the pixel count count section 18a of original copy judegment part 17a of storage in advance.

Threshold value control handling part 13a is made of read mode line density judegment part 14a, threshold value selection portion 15a and configuration part 16a, differentiate the user by operation display part 5 indicated read mode and line density, notification threshold selection portion 15a and original copy judegment part 17a at read mode line density judegment part 14a.

Threshold value selection portion 15a is with reference to the threshold value that is stored in a series of black pixel counts corresponding with read mode and line density among the RAM9 in advance, the threshold value of the black pixel count that the read mode of specific and read mode line density judegment part 14a notice and line density are corresponding, notice configuration part 16a.The threshold value of the black pixel count that configuration part 16a use RAM9 storage threshold selection portion 15a is notified.

Original copy judegment part 17a by pixel count count section 18a and relatively judegment part 19a constitute, pixel count count section 18a counts the black pixel count of the view data that read by scanner 1, with count results notice judegment part 19a relatively.When counting, read mode line density judegment part 14a differentiates read mode and line density, and pixel count count section 18a reads the counting procedure corresponding with this read mode and line density from RAM9, deceives the counting of pixel according to this program.For example, if select half tone original read mode and fine rule density, then isolated point shown in Figure 5 is also counted.

The black pixel count notified of the judegment part 19a compared pixels counting number 18a of portion and be stored in the threshold value of the black pixel count among the RAM9 by configuration part 16 is relatively differentiated whether blank sheet of paper original copy of view data that scanner 1 reads.

Be provided with the processing action of the picture unit of this detection blank sheet of paper original copy system with reference to Figure 13 explanation, Figure 13 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 12.

When beginning to read original copy, in step 1301, the user selects read mode and line density from some read modes and read line density; In step 1302, from the RAM9 selection black pixel counts program corresponding of Figure 12 with selected read mode and line density; In addition, in step 1303, by selected read mode and line density select with the RAM9 that is registered in Figure 12 in advance in read mode and the threshold value of the corresponding detection blank sheet of paper of line density, in step 1304, begin to read original copy, detect in step 1305 and deceive pixel count.

If original copy reads end ("Yes" of step 1306), then step 1307 according to above-mentioned steps 1302 in selected counting procedure determine black pixel count in the original copy.Compare with the threshold value that in step 1303, reads at step 1308 pair above-mentioned definite black pixel count from RAM9, if the words ("Yes" of step 1308) that the black pixel count of the original copy that is read lacks than the threshold value that reads from RAM9, then step 1309 with the set of blank sheet of paper certification mark in RAM9, in step 1310, be judged as and read the blank sheet of paper original copy.

If the words ("No" of step 1308) that the black pixel count of the original copy that read is Duoed than the threshold value that reads from RAM9, then in step 1311 with the blank sheet of paper certification mark reset in the RAM9, in step 1312, be judged as and read common original copy.

Like this, whether during blank sheet of paper, can be used to detect the threshold value of blank sheet of paper original copy, can carry out more high-precision blank sheet of paper detection for example half tone original according to the read mode change in the threshold decision of the black pixel count of the original copy that reads relatively and the black pixel count that is predetermined.

Mark in RAM9 is in the SM set mode occasion, the picture unit of Fig. 1 by operation display part 5 display part or buzzer reads to user notification is the blank sheet of paper original copy, interrupt the original image data toward image memory stores and the communication by modulator-demodulator 10, network control portion 11.Perhaps also can not interrupt above-mentioned processing, what only display part by operation display part 5 or buzzer read to user notification is the blank sheet of paper original copy.

Illustrate that below with reference to Figure 14 and Figure 15 the black pixel retrieval technique of the detection blank sheet of paper original copy system that the present invention is shown in Figure 12, Figure 14 and Figure 15 are to detect the key diagram of the black pixel retrieval process example of blank sheet of paper system among Figure 12.

Sneaked into useless data fields because of reasons such as image sensor performance in the data that imageing sensor reads and closed, existing actual is blank sheet of paper and can not be judged as the problem of blank sheet of paper.This example is exactly at this problem, can hash be judged as image because of mistaken read mode, so that precision is extracted the black pixel as image well.

In this example, be provided with the some kinds of conversion tables (black pixel counts conversion table) that use when calculating black pixel, can switch the counting procedure of black pixel with this black pixel counts conversion table of the corresponding selection of read mode and line density as some programs.

At this, so-called black pixel counts conversion table is meant such table: the view data that reads with CIS etc. is that unit is sent to line buffer storage (RAM9) with a line, with a byte is unit when calculating the black pixel count of this view data, is used for the black pixel count that converts from the black pixel appearance figure of a byte.

For example, shown in Figure 14 a, a byte data that is transmitted is the data that are called " FF (HEX) ", and black pixel count is scaled 8, if be called the data of " 77 (HEX) " shown in Figure 14 b, black pixel count is scaled 6.All the number of the above-mentioned conversion of stack calculates the black pixel count of original copy one page part.

And, different according to read mode in this example with line density, set by the following method from the number of the black pixel count of view data conversion.

For example, read the original copy occasion and read the original copy occasion with the halftoning pattern with fine rule density, as shown in figure 15,1 pixel in the one byte image data (Figure 15 a) or the such isolated point of 2 pixels (Figure 15 b) be that the possibility of image is very big, so the table of selecting also correctly to be converted into 1 pixel or 2 pixels to such byte data is counted.

Read the original copy occasion and read the original copy occasion with thick line density with line patterns, view data as shown in Figure 15 is likely dirty dirty or other hash on the original copy, so selection is converted into the table of " 0 " pixel, it is not counted.

By conversion table how the isolated point of degree be judged as hash, this is relevant with the original copy that the performance and the hope of read elements such as CIS or CCD are judged as blank sheet of paper, can according to institute's operative installations in advance the black pixel of practical measurement determine.

That is to say that when beginning to read original copy, the user selects line patterns or halftoning pattern according to institute's reading images.Be stored in black pixel counts conversion table among RAM, the ROM etc. in advance by such model selection of selecting.For example, if read mode is the halftoning pattern, with black pixel counts conversion table, calculate black pixel count with reference to pre-prepd halftoning.

Like this, be provided with the some kinds of programs (black pixel counts table) of calculating black pixel count, select the suitableeest program according to reading original copy pattern (lines, halftoning) and line density, can precision judge that well the black pixel that is read is hash or view data, improve counting precision as the black pixel count of view data.The counting precision of the black pixel count by improving view data, judge original copy whether the threshold value of the black pixel count of blank sheet of paper become more accurate, improved detection blank sheet of paper precision.

The 6th example of the detection blank sheet of paper original copy system that the present invention relates to below with reference to Figure 16 and Figure 17 explanation, this example relate to operates above-mentioned each technology by Fig. 1-Figure 15 explanation of corresponding change with the user and sets the threshold value of the differentiation blank sheet of paper original copy of change.Promptly, set change by each technology of Fig. 1-Figure 15 explanation and differentiate after the threshold value of blank sheet of paper original copy, the user uses and is lower than the above-mentioned original copy occasion that is used to detect blank sheet of paper original copy threshold value, flase drop is surveyed be the blank sheet of paper original copy.

At the problems referred to above, use the detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of formation shown in Figure 16, Figure 16 is the block diagram of detection blank sheet of paper original copy the 6th system's configuration example partly of picture unit among Fig. 1.

The detection blank sheet of paper original copy system of the 6th system's configuration example by operation display part 5, RAM9, original copy judegment part 17, blank sheet of paper original copy notice portion 31, force to deliver letters portion 32 and threshold value changing unit 33 form, wherein, original copy judegment part 17 is made of the CPU7 among Fig. 1, ROM8 and RAM9 etc.

When from reading that original copy detects and black pixel count for detect blank sheet of paper with black threshold number of pixels below, original copy judegment part 17 is judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy.According to this judged result, blank sheet of paper original copy notice portion 31 uses sound acoustic device or display unit such as LCD, LED such as buzzer by operation display part 5, may read in the blank sheet of paper original copy to user's warning.

For above-mentioned warning, the user proceeds the original copy occasion of delivering letters with cancellation warning indications such as being located at detection blank sheet of paper cancel key on the operation display part 5 or switch, the view data that the portion 32 that forces to deliver letters reads in from original copy (being judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy) by department of modulation and demodulation shown in Figure 1 10 and 11 transmission of network control portion.

If force the portion of delivering letters 32 to transmit the view data of reading in from original copy (being judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy), threshold value changing unit 33 uses the black pixel count of this original copy to change the threshold value that is stored among the RAM9.

For example, in order to have coefficient of safety, will deliver letters the black pixel count of original copy of threshold value changing unit 33 multiply by 0.7, as new threshold value write RAM9 decide in the address.Read black pixel count and be " 100 " occasion, new threshold value be " 70 ", after, if detected black pixel count be below " 70 ", differentiate and be the blank sheet of paper original copy, if deceive pixel count be " 100 " and the above-mentioned original copy of having delivered letters do not differentiate later on yet and be the blank sheet of paper original copy.

Above-mentioned giving a warning after certain hour, for example one minute user does not cancel the warning occasion continues to deliver letters.At this moment, do not change the threshold value of the black pixel count that is used to detect blank sheet of paper.

Like this, be used to detect the threshold value of the black pixel count of blank sheet of paper, can adapt to the user and use the blank sheet of paper of original copy to detect by change.

In addition, the also available method as described below of threshold value changing unit 33 writes new threshold value among the RAM9, specifically, if by forcing to deliver letters portion's 32 transmitted image data, threshold value changing unit 33 with the black pixel count of this view data as logarithmic data is write RAM9 decide in the address.The zone to logarithmic data is preserved in corresponding with reading conditions such as read mode and line densities in advance division.

Then, under same reading conditions, whenever carry out several times, for example preserve action 5 times, ask its mean value,, this mean value be multiply by 0.7 in order to have coefficient of safety, as new threshold value write RAM9 decide in the address.Can set arbitrarily by operation display part 5 from the action frequency user of logarithm data computation mean value.

Like this, the passing threshold change is handled can set with the user and is used the original copy corresponding threshold, can adapt to the user and use the blank sheet of paper of original copy to detect.In addition, detect and be the blank sheet of paper occasion, can force under the threshold status to deliver letters not changing when reading in common obsolete special original copy.

Carry out view data by the portion 32 that forces to deliver letters and deliver letters whether display unit explicit users such as LCD on operation display part 5 are selected tries to achieve new threshold value according to the black pixel count that reads specifically and write among the RAM9, according to this displaying contents, when user's indication writes (registration) occasion, this threshold value among the RAM9 is changed to new threshold value, if indication registration, just will to logarithmic data be kept at RAM9 decide end process in the zone.

Be provided with the processing action of the picture unit of this detection blank sheet of paper original copy system with reference to Figure 17 explanation, Figure 17 is the flow chart that is provided with the processing action example of the picture unit that detects blank sheet of paper original copy system among Figure 16.

In step 1701, the user reads original copy with the reading conditions (read mode, line density) that sets, and the result is if be judged as blank sheet of paper original copy ("Yes" of step 1702), then in step 1703, the operation display part 5 usefulness buzzers by Fig. 1, LCD etc. give a warning to the user.

In step 1704, judge whether the user cancels this warning, if the user cancels above-mentioned warning, indication continues to transmit original copy ("Yes" of step 1704), and is then in step 1705, that the black pixel count of this original copy is corresponding with reading conditions as logarithmic data is kept among the RAM9 of Fig. 1.

In step 1706, judge whether this number to logarithmic data is maximum, if maximum ("Yes" of step 1706) then in step 1707, uses the new threshold value of this logarithm data computation, the threshold value that will be stored among the RAM9 in step 1708 changes to the threshold value of calculating and getting.Also can carry out above-mentioned change according to user's indication.

Like this, be used to detect the threshold value of the black pixel count of blank sheet of paper, can use original copy to change corresponding setting threshold, adapt to the user and use the blank sheet of paper of original copy to detect with the user by change.

Other example below with reference to Figure 18-23 explanation image read-out of the present invention, Figure 18 is the block diagram of the another kind of configuration example of the image read-out that the present invention relates to, this routine image read-out is a picture unit, and scanner 51, display part 52, operating portion 53, Department of Communication Force 54, controller 55, ROM56, RAM57, plotter 58 connect and compose by internal bus 59.

Scanner 51 reads deliver letters image or duplicating image; Display part 52 is made of LCD etc., shows that " in the communication ", " malfunction " wait operate condition from picture unit to user (user, operator) that notify; Department of Communication Force 54 is made of modulator-demodulator, network control unit etc., detects posting a letter or letter signal of dial impulse, carries out telefacsimile switching etc., by being connected of controls such as public loop line or special-purpose loop line and the other side's device; Controller 55 is made of CPU etc., and control comprises the picture unit molar behavior that the detection blank sheet of paper original copy that the present invention relates to is handled.

The CPU of ROM56 storage control 55 moves with program and data; The control data of RAM57 storage CPU, the data when for example fault takes place, trusted data etc.; Plotter 58 comprises laser printing mechanism, the duplicating image that printing scanner 51 reads or the view data of Department of Communication Force 54 trusteds.

The following describes the action of the picture unit of said structure.

On scanner 51, the individual palpation key of operating portion 52 is specified the other side's number to the operator, presses initiating key with the original copy mounting, and controller 55 starts scanner 51 original copy is transported in the scanner 51, begins to read original copy.

The view data that is read is encoded by coding and decoding portion, temporarily is stored among the RAM57.And, be connected with the other side's number of above-mentioned appointment by Department of Communication Force 54, finish if connect, then send the view data that is stored among the RAM57.

In above-mentioned processing, if the operator with the positive and negative mounting occasion in scanner 51 of putting upside down of original copy, sends the blank sheet of paper view data,, in this routine picture unit, be provided with the detection blank sheet of paper original copy mechanism of structure shown in Figure 19 in order to address this problem, detect the blank sheet of paper original copy.

Figure 19 is the configuration example block diagram of the detection blank sheet of paper original copy part of picture unit among Figure 18, in Figure 19, the 60th, original copy, the 61st, CIS, the 62nd, A/D (analog/digital) transformation component, the 63rd, the blank sheet of paper detection unit, 64 is the 1st test sections, 65 is the 2nd test sections, 66 is the 3rd test sections, the 67th, selection portion, the 68th, notice portion, above-mentioned blank sheet of paper detection unit 63,1-the 3rd test section 64-66, selection portion 67, notice portion 68 are located in the controller 55.

CIS61 is located in the scanner 51 of Figure 18, and some original copys of operator's mounting are sent by more than, receives the reverberation from original copy 60, is transformed into the signal of telecommunication (simulation).A/D transformation component 62 will be transformed into digital signal from the analog signal of CIS61, the digital signal that is transformed into, and image data storage in RAM57, by the processing of controller 55, deliver letters or duplicate.

Blank sheet of paper detection unit 63,1-the 3rd test section 64-66, selection portion 67 and notice portion 68 constitute detection blank sheet of paper original copy part of the present invention.Wherein, blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 is according to judge whether blank sheet of paper original copy of this original copy from the view data of the original copy 60 of A/D transformation component 62 outputs; At the 1st test section 64,, export testing result at once when blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 is judged to be blank sheet of paper original copy occasion with original copy 60; At the 2nd test section 65, when the original copy 60 that is judged to be the blank sheet of paper original copy when blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 adds up to numbers to reach to set number, the output testing result; At the 3rd test section 66,, export testing result when blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 is judged to be blank sheet of paper original copy occasion with whole original copys 60; Selection portion 67 one of is selected to start among above-mentioned 1-the 3rd test section 64-66 according to the indication of operator by operating portion 53; Notice portion 68 is passed in testing result output by certain gained among 1-the 3rd test section 64-66 of selection portion 67 startups; If the testing result output of certain gained among 1-the 3rd test section 64-66 is arranged,, remind and check institute's mounting original copy in the notice portion 68 then by display part 52 notifying operation persons.

The operator is according to the notice of this notice portion 68, confirms original copy printing concentration etc., determines again mounting or continues to deliver letters or action is stopped etc., indicates by operating portion 53.The operator is if indication is proceeded, and controller 55 just continues to read original copy or continues to send the image information that is read; The operator then stops to read original copy or stops to send the image information that is read if indication stops.

Below with reference to the above-mentioned detection blank sheet of paper original copy action of Figure 20-23 explanation, Figure 20 is the flow chart that the detection blank sheet of paper original copy of picture unit among Figure 18 is handled the action example.

If push initiating key ("Yes" of step 2001) at operating portion 53, then differentiate in step 2002 whether mounting has original copy, there is not the mounting original copy ("No" of step 2002) if be judged as, then represent faults by display part 52 in step 2003.If being judged as mounting has original copy ("Yes" of step 2002), then be transported into the 1st original copy, in step 2005 reads image data in step 2004.

Judged whether to detect the indication of blank sheet of paper original copy in step 2006 by operating portion 53, if do not detect blank sheet of paper original copy indication ("No" of step 2006), then confirm that in step 2010 there is not original copy the back, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2010), then repeat processing from step 2004, if do not have original copy ("No" of step 2010), then end process.

If the blank sheet of paper of detection original copy indication ("Yes" of step 2006) is arranged in step 2006, then differentiate whether selected in the 1st test section the 64, the 2nd test section 65 certain in step 2007, if selected in the 1st test section the 64, the 2nd test section 65 certain ("Yes" of step 2007), then start selected test section and detect the blank sheet of paper original copy in step 2008.

Have or not the result to export in step 2009 judgement, if no result's output ("No" of step 2009), then confirm that in step 2010 there is not original copy the back, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2010), then repeat processing from step 2004, if do not have original copy ("No" of step 2010), then end process.If have the result to export ("Yes" of step 2009), then pass through display part 2 notifying operation persons by notice portion 67 in step 2011 in step 2009.

If in step 2007, differentiate, then in step 2012, start the 3rd test section 66 and detect the blank sheet of paper original copy for having selected outside the 1st test section the 64, the 2nd test section 65, promptly to have selected the words ("No" of step 2007) of the 3rd test section 66.

The 3rd test section 66 is to differentiate whether institute's mounting original copy all is blank sheet of paper, so, differentiate the back in step 2013 and whether also have original copy, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2013), then repeat processing from step 2004, if there is not original copy ("No" of step 2013), then judging in step 2014 has or not the result to export, if no result's output ("No" of step 2014), end process then, if there is the result to export ("Yes" of step 2014), then pass through display part 2 notifying operation persons by notice portion 67 in step 2011.

Figure 21 is the flow chart of the processing action example of the 1st test section among Figure 19, the result of determination of blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 in step 2101 input Figure 19, if result of determination is is not " blank sheet of paper original copy " ("No" of step 2102), then judge whether that in step 2103 back also has original copy, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2103), then, there are not original copy ("No" of step 2103), then end process as if the back in the result of determination of step 2101 input back original copy.

If result of determination is " a blank sheet of paper original copy ", ("Yes" of step 2102), then the notice portion 68 output detections at step 2104 couple Figure 19 are the information of blank sheet of paper original copy.Like this, at the 1st test section 64, when blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 was judged to be blank sheet of paper with original copy, output detected blank sheet of paper original copy result.

Figure 22 is the flow chart of the processing action example of the 2nd test section among Figure 19, the result of determination of blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 in step 2201 input Figure 19, if result of determination is is not " blank sheet of paper original copy " ("No" of step 2202), then judge whether that in step 2203 back also has original copy, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2203), then, there are not original copy ("No" of step 2203), then end process as if the back in the result of determination of step 2201 input back original copy.

If result of determination is " a blank sheet of paper original copy ", ("Yes" of step 2202), then count value t is added 1 in step 2204, judge that in step 2205 whether count value t is more than or equal to set point T, if also do not reach T value ("No" of step 2205), then enter step 2203, if t has reached T value ("Yes" of step 2205), then enter step 2206, notice portion 68 output of Figure 19 is detected be the information of blank sheet of paper original copy.Like this, at the 2nd test section 65, when the number that original copy is judged to be blank sheet of paper whenever blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 reaches set point, export this testing result.

Figure 23 is the flow chart of the processing action example of the 3rd test section among Figure 19, and the result of determination of blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 in step 2301 input Figure 19 if result of determination is " blank sheet of paper original copy " ("Yes" of step 2302), is then calibrated note set in step 2303 with institute.

Then, judge whether that in step 2304 back also has original copy, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2304), then repeat processing from step 2301, if the back does not have original copy ("No" of step 2304), promptly all be judged to be " blank sheet of paper original copy ", then enter step 2305, notice portion 68 output of Figure 19 is detected be the information of blank sheet of paper original copy for all original copys.

If the result of determination at step 2302 blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 is not " blank sheet of paper original copy " ("No" of step 2302), then in the mark reset of step 2306 with on, end process.

Like this,, only work as blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 whole original copys are judged to be the blank sheet of paper occasion, export this testing result at the 3rd test section 66.

Illustrated with reference to Figure 18-23 above and detected blank sheet of paper original copy method and as the picture unit of image read-out, it is provided with the 1st test section 64 and (detects 1 blank sheet of paper original copy, just export testing result), the 2nd test section 65 (detect and just export testing result when setting number blank sheet of paper original copy), the 3rd test section 66 be (if judge that original copy all is not the blank sheet of paper original copy, just do not export testing result), the user can select one of them.

For example, select the 1st test section 64 occasions, if blank sheet of paper detection unit 63 judges that original copy 60 is a blank sheet of paper, the 1st test section 64 is just exported the blank sheet of paper original copy information that detects at once.According to the output of the 1st test section 64, the image information of original copy after picture unit stops to read, notifying operation person.Like this, the operator need not wait until always that many original copys 60 are read action to be all over, and just can know that the original copy positive and negative is put upside down to miss mounting etc.

In the 2nd test section 65 or the 3rd test section 66, by blank sheet of paper detection unit 63, before setting number original copy or all original copys and being judged as blank sheet of paper, do not export end product, can confirm that the time of blank sheet of paper original copy is elongated though reach the operator,, the operator can select one of above-mentioned pattern arbitrarily, adopt and original copy the suitableeest corresponding detection blank sheet of paper original copy function, improve picture unit performance and convenience.

Below with reference to other example of Figure 24-27 explanation image read-out of the present invention, Figure 24 is the block diagram of another configuration example of image read-out that the present invention relates to,

The image read-out of present embodiment is a picture unit, except be provided with the automatic conveyer 1b of two-sided original other on the scanner 1a and picture unit shown in Figure 1 roughly the same, connecting the 2a of coding and decoding portion, video memory 3a, plotter 4a, operation display part 5a, switch 6a, CPU7a, ROM8a, RAM9a, modulator-demodulator 10a, the 11a of network control portion by bus 12.

By the automatic conveyer 1b of two-sided original is set, the scanner 1a of present embodiment can not only transport and read common single face original copy, and can be according to transporting many original copy reads image data in proper order from the indication of operation display part 5e, simultaneously, can overturn the automatically positive and negative of each original copy reads the view data of two-sided original.

For example, when reading some common single face original copys continuously and storing the Image Data Compression that is read into video memory 3a, detect blank sheet of paper original copy occasion by above-mentioned various detection functions, in the present embodiment picture unit, use the automatic conveyer 1b of two-sided original will detect and read the reverse side view data to the original copy upset of blank sheet of paper.

Like this, even the original copy positive and negative mixes occasion, also can be automatically correct reads image data avoids waste.

According to Figure 25 and Figure 26 its processing action is described below, Figure 25 is that reading of picture unit handled the routine flow chart of action among Figure 24.

Transport the original copy of institute's mounting in step 2501 by the automatic conveyer 1b of two-sided original, reads image data, compression is stored among the video memory 3a.

Step 2502 according to the black pixel retrieval technique of above-mentioned Fig. 1-Figure 23 explanation, detect blank sheet of paper original copy technology (threshold setting technology) etc. and judge whether the blank sheet of paper original copy, when detecting blank sheet of paper original copy occasion ("Yes" of step 2502), then reading RAM that the original copy page management uses, be to detect the set of blank sheet of paper mark among the RAM9a of Figure 24 in step 2503.

Then, step 2505 mark whether with reference to original copy upset set differentiate detect the blank sheet of paper original copy be when transporting original copy usually, take place or upset after transport generation, if original copy upset mark does not have set ("No" of step 2505), then belong to and transport original copy usually, with the original copy mark set of overturning, automatic conveyer 1b overturns original copy by the two-sided original of Figure 24 in step 2507.So, get back to the processing of step 2501 through the "Yes" of step 2508, the original copy that overturns is read its view data.

If original copy upset mark set occasion ("Yes" of step 2505), then belong to the original copy that overturn, in step 2506 with the original copy mark reset of overturning, so, "No" through step 2508 enters step 2509, judges whether the back also has original copy, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2509), then get back to the processing of step 2501, the back original copy is repeated above-mentioned reads image data action.This occasion, the dual-side image data of this image are not the object outputs that output shown in Figure 26 is handled.

Not blank sheet of paper original copy ("No" of step 2502) if be judged as, then reading among the RAM9a that the original copy page management uses and to detect the reset of blank sheet of paper mark, enter step 2509 then in step 2504 in step 2502.

Figure 26 is the flow chart that the action example is handled in the output of picture unit among Figure 24.

When exporting the view data that reads with action shown in Figure 25, the detection blank sheet of paper of judging the RAM9a of Figure 24 corresponding with this original copy in step 2601 marks whether set, there is not set ("No" of step 2601) if detect the blank sheet of paper mark, then such by handling usually in step 2602, send this view data output that is stored in the video memory by output device (being modulator-demodulator 10a and the 11a of network control portion shown in Figure 24 in the present embodiment), be stored in this view data in the video memory in step 2603 cancellation then, judge in step 2604 whether the back also has original copy, if also have original copy ("Yes" of step 2604), then get back to the processing of step 2601, the back original copy is repeated above-mentioned processing.If do not have original copy ("No" of step 2604), then end process.

If detect blank sheet of paper mark set ("Yes" of step 2601) in step 2601, then this original copy is the blank sheet of paper original copy, does not export this view data that is stored in the video memory, is stored in this view data in the video memory in step 2603 cancellation then.

Like this, do not send the view data that output is judged as blank sheet of paper original copy page or leaf, only send normal original copy page or leaf continuously.

Originally reading and handling the action example is will be effective or invalid by user (operator) decision to detecting to the original copy of blank sheet of paper in action shown in Figure 25, specifically, is after Figure 25 step 2502 is handled

step

2703,2704 to be set.

Promptly, in step 2502 when detecting blank sheet of paper original copy occasion ("Yes" of step 2502), then will detect the original copy blank sheet of paper by for example operation display part 5a shown in Figure 24 with buzzer or demonstration etc. and notify the user in step 2703.

Whether determine blank sheet of paper in step 2704 by the user, if the user is judged as the decision ("Yes" of step 2704) of blank sheet of paper by the particular key input of being located at operation display part 5a, then enter step 2503 and carry out processing shown in Figure 25, reason reality such as Ruo Yinse is light are not the blank sheet of paper occasions, user's decision is not blank sheet of paper ("No" of step 2704), then enters step 2504 and carries out processing shown in Figure 25.By this processing method, to the two-sided blank sheet of paper occasion that is detected as of for example original copy, confirm output image data reliably according to the user, can prevent to be blank sheet of paper output image data not because of reasons such as look light detect.

Be illustrated with reference to Fig. 1-2 7 above, image read-out of the present invention and black pixel search method thereof and blank sheet of paper document detecting method can high accuracy and are detected the blank sheet of paper original copy effectively, improve performance, reliability and conveniences such as picture unit, scanning means.

For example, the picture unit as image read-out of the present invention is stored and each line density corresponding threshold in advance, differentiates and reads the original copy line density, switches to and this line density corresponding threshold, detects the blank sheet of paper original copy, can detect the blank sheet of paper original copy accurately like this.

In this picture unit, show be stored in the storage part with each line density corresponding threshold, the threshold value according to the user indicates this demonstration of change can detect the blank sheet of paper original copy so more accurately.

This occasion, by showing the black pixel count of having counted original copy, the user is easy to carry out the threshold value alter operation.

Perhaps read the user and want,, can make the threshold value alter operation easier with the change and this line density corresponding threshold automatically of its black pixel count as the many original copys of the white part of common original copy.

Original copy forms occasion by lines or halftoning, not only above-mentioned line density can also with the corresponding storage threshold of selected read mode, according to the threshold test blank sheet of paper original copy that is suitable for most selected read mode, can correspondingly with the original copy kind detect the blank sheet of paper original copy accurately like this.

In the black pixel search method of the picture unit as image read-out of the present invention, one main scanning line is divided into four sections, get wherein one section as each line reading object scope, and, the back one line with the last line section of reading back one section as the reading object scope, the retrieval of deceiving pixel for the section of reading respectively every 1 byte, the retrieval start address of each section hockets with odd and even number every four lines, with about 1/8th of original copy gross area is the black pixel of object detection, can retrieve black pixel efficiently like this.

In the black pixel of retrieval, in searching object 1 byte 1 or 2 s' isolated point is regarded the flase drop of imageing sensor as and is surveyed, and does not count to black pixel, can retrieve black pixel more efficiently like this.

Line density and original copy read mode are provided with the program of the black pixel count of some calculating relatively, with the corresponding switching said procedure of selected line density and read mode black pixel count are counted, like this can be corresponding with the original copy kind, and most suitably counting is deceived pixel count.

Differentiation is blank sheet of paper original copy occasion, if the user supports to force to deliver letters, then the black pixel count according to this moment changes threshold value.For example, deciding back to get its mean value after number is forced to deliver letters is new threshold value.Like this, the user is easy to threshold value is carried out change setting.

Of the present invention as image read-out picture unit and detect blank sheet of paper original copy method and be provided with the 1st measuring ability in advance and (detect 1 blank sheet of paper original copy, just export testing result), the 2nd measuring ability (detect and just export testing result when setting number blank sheet of paper original copy), the 3rd measuring ability be (if judge that original copy all is not the blank sheet of paper original copy, just do not export testing result), the user can select one of them.Like this, the user can select only detection blank sheet of paper original copy function according to original copy, improves device performance, and easily.

When notifying the user, action is stopped, the user can select to operate again or continue and handle, and has further improved the device convenience.

Certainly, the present invention is not limited to the foregoing description, can do all changes in the technology of the present invention thought range.For example, describe as image read-out with picture unit in the present embodiment, still, the present invention also can be applicable to the photocopier with original copy automatic paper feeding function, the scanning means that is connected with computer etc.In addition, the picture unit in the foregoing description makes original copy move forward into line scanning, still, also can be that fixedly original copy makes optical system move forward into the picture unit of line scanning or do not have photocopier of original copy automatic paper feeding function etc.

The detection blank sheet of paper original copy portion of Figure 19-23 explanation also can be applicable to the picture unit shown in Figure 1 that Fig. 2-17 is illustrated.At this moment, according to the advise fate of notice portion 68 among Figure 19, send the original copy that has been judged as blank sheet of paper by deliver letters portion 32 of pressure shown in Figure 16,33 changes of passing threshold changing unit are stored in the threshold value among the RAM9.

Claims

1. image read-out, comprise reading device to the Manuscript scanner reads image data, the counting device that the black pixel count of the view data that this reading device read is counted, with above-mentioned counting and the black pixel count (threshold value) of black pixel count and storage in advance compare and judge the whether judgment means of blank sheet of paper original copy of above-mentioned original copy, it is characterized in that, be provided with the line density discriminating gear that is used to differentiate original copy read line density, the storage device of the above-mentioned threshold value that storage in advance is corresponding with some line densities, from the choice device of above-mentioned storage device selection with the line density corresponding threshold of above-mentioned line density discriminating gear differentiation, with the above-mentioned threshold value of the corresponding switching of the line density that reads original copy, detect the blank sheet of paper original copy.

2. image read-out, the counting device that comprises reading device, the black pixel count of the view data that this reading device read is counted to the Manuscript scanner reads image data, with above-mentioned counting and the black pixel count (threshold value) of black pixel count and storage in advance compare and judge the whether judgment means of blank sheet of paper original copy of above-mentioned original copy, it is characterized in that, be provided with:

The line density discriminating gear is used to differentiate original copy read line density;

Storage device, the storage above-mentioned threshold value corresponding in advance with some line densities;

Choice device is from the line density corresponding threshold that above-mentioned storage device is selected and above-mentioned line density discriminating gear is differentiated;

Judgment means, with the black pixel count of reading original copy face with compare by the selected threshold value of above-mentioned choice device, judge whether the blank sheet of paper original copy;

Read original copy upset reading device, if above-mentioned original copy is judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy, this original copy that overturns scans reverse side, reading images information.

3. according to the image read-out described in the claim 2, it is characterized in that, further be provided with the image information that preservation reads from original copy save set, from this save set read above-mentioned image information output output device, suppress the above-mentioned restraining device that is judged as the original image information of blank sheet of paper original copy by above-mentioned output device output.

4. according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-3, it is characterized in that, further be provided with display unit and change device, above-mentioned display unit show be stored in the above-mentioned storage device with each line density corresponding threshold, above-mentioned change device according to the user indicate change by above-mentioned display unit shown with each line density corresponding threshold.

5. according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-4, it is characterized in that, be provided with the display unit of demonstration by the black pixel count of original copy of above-mentioned counting device counting.

6. according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-5, it is characterized in that, be provided with discriminating gear and change device, above-mentioned discriminating gear differentiates whether read specific original copy according to user's indication by above-mentioned reading device, when above-mentioned specific original copy is read in differentiation, differentiate line density when reading above-mentioned specific original copy by above-mentioned line density discriminating gear, above-mentioned change device will be corresponding with above-mentioned line density is stored in threshold value in the above-mentioned storage device and changes to black pixel count by the above-mentioned specific original copy of above-mentioned counting device counting.

7. according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-6, it is characterized in that, be provided with storage device, pattern discrimination device and choice device, above-mentioned storage device is by the read mode storage and each line density corresponding threshold that comprise line patterns, halftoning pattern, above-mentioned pattern discrimination device is differentiated user-selected read mode, above-mentioned choice device selection and the read mode that gets by the differentiation of pattern discrimination device and the line density corresponding threshold that gets by the differentiation of line density discriminating gear, switch to this threshold value, detect the blank sheet of paper original copy.

8. image read-out, the counting device that comprises reading device, the black pixel count of the view data that this reading device read is counted to the Manuscript scanner reads image data, with above-mentioned counting and the black pixel count (threshold value) of black pixel count and storage in advance compare and judge the whether judgment means of blank sheet of paper original copy of above-mentioned original copy, it is characterized in that, be provided with:

The pattern discrimination device is differentiated the user-selected read mode that comprises line patterns, halftoning pattern;

Storage device, the storage above-mentioned threshold value corresponding in advance with above-mentioned read mode;

Choice device is selected and the read mode corresponding threshold that is got by above-mentioned pattern discrimination device differentiation from above-mentioned storage device;

Switch to and above-mentioned read mode corresponding threshold, detect the blank sheet of paper original copy.

9. according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-8, it is characterized in that, be provided with notifying device and determination device, above-mentioned notifying device is judged as the judged result of blank sheet of paper original copy to the above-mentioned original copy of user notification, and above-mentioned determination device indicates decision whether to export the image information that is judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy according to the user.

10. according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-8, it is characterized in that, be provided with:

Notifying device is judged as the judged result of blank sheet of paper original copy to the above-mentioned original copy of user notification;

Force output device,, still export the above-mentioned original copy that is judged as blank sheet of paper according to user's output indication even be judged as the blank sheet of paper original copy;

Change device is used to judge whether the threshold value of blank sheet of paper original copy according to the black pixel count change by the original copy of above-mentioned pressure output device output.

11. an image read-out to Manuscript scanner reading images information, is characterized in that, is provided with:

Judgment means compares the black pixel count of the original copy face that reads and the threshold value of predefined black pixel count, judges whether the blank sheet of paper original copy;

12: the image read-out according to described in claim 10 or 11, it is characterized in that, be provided with:

Storage device when above-mentioned pressure output device is exported, is stored the black pixel count of this original copy;

Averaging device is counted the output number of times of above-mentioned pressure output device, if reach pre-determined number, asks for the mean value of each black pixel count of being stored;

The threshold value that is used to judge whether the blank sheet of paper original copy according to above-mentioned mean value change.

13: according to any described image read-out among the claim 10-12, it is characterized in that, be provided with choice device, the user can select the threshold value whether basis is used to judge whether the blank sheet of paper original copy by the black pixel count change of the original copy of above-mentioned pressure output device output by this choice device, if the user selects the change indication, just threshold value is changed.

14: according to any described image read-out among the claim 1-13, it is characterized in that, be provided with plurality of detection device and choice device, above-mentioned plurality of detection device is that the result of determination of blank sheet of paper original copy is respectively with distinct program output testing result according to original copy, above-mentioned choice device is indicated according to the user and is selected one of above-mentioned plurality of detection device, if, export the notice of confirming original copy to the user from selected checkout gear output testing result.

15. an image read-out to Manuscript scanner reading images information, is characterized in that, is provided with:

Judgment means judges whether the blank sheet of paper original copy;

The plurality of detection device is exported testing result with distinct program respectively according to the result of determination that above-mentioned judgment means original copy is the blank sheet of paper original copy;

Choice device is indicated one of above-mentioned plurality of detection device of selection according to the user;

Notifying device is if from selected checkout gear output testing result, export the notice of confirming original copy to the user.

16. the image read-out according to described in claim 14 or 15 is characterized in that, is provided with first checkout gear as above-mentioned plurality of detection device, original copy is judged as blank sheet of paper original copy occasion, just exports the testing result that this original copy is the blank sheet of paper original copy at once.

17., it is characterized in that be provided with second checkout gear as above-mentioned plurality of detection device, the original copy that is judged to be blank sheet of paper reaches and sets the number occasion according to any described image read-out among the claim 14-16, output is the testing result of blank sheet of paper original copy.

18., it is characterized in that be provided with the 3rd checkout gear as above-mentioned plurality of detection device, all original copys all are judged as blank sheet of paper original copy occasion according to any described image read-out among the claim 14-17, output is the testing result of blank sheet of paper original copy.

19. according to any described image read-out among the claim 14-18, it is characterized in that, be provided with arresting stop and continue device, when the notice occasion is confirmed in output, above-mentioned arresting stop stops above-mentioned original copy reading images information, after stopping to read above-mentioned image information,, then continue the above-mentioned original copy of device control continuing to read if the user has " continuation " indication by above-mentioned arresting stop.

20. the black pixel search method of any described image read-out among the claim 1-19, it is characterized in that, one main scanning line is divided into four sections, get wherein one section as each line reading object scope, and, back one line with the last line section of reading back one section as the reading object scope, deceive the retrieval of pixel for the section of reading respectively every 1 byte, the retrieval start address of each section hockets with odd and even number every four lines.

21. the black pixel search method of an image read-out, original copy is scanned, the black pixel count of the view data that retrieval is read, it is characterized in that, a main scanning line is divided into four sections, get wherein one section as each line reading object scope, and, back one line with the last line section of reading back one section as the reading object scope, deceive the retrieval of pixel for the section of reading respectively every 1 byte, the retrieval start address of each section hockets with odd and even number every four lines.

22. the black pixel search method according to the image read-out described in claim 20 or 21 is characterized in that, 1 or 2 isolated point in searching object 1 byte be not as black pixel counts.

23. black pixel search method according to any described image read-out among the claim 20-22, it is characterized in that, store the counting procedure of above-mentioned black pixel by the read mode that comprises line patterns, halftoning pattern in advance, black pixel is counted according to the above-mentioned counting procedure corresponding with user-selected read mode.

24. the black pixel search method according to any described image read-out among the claim 20-23 is characterized in that, presses the counting procedure of the black pixel of line density storage in advance, according to the above-mentioned counting procedure corresponding with line density black pixel is counted.

25. the detection blank sheet of paper original copy method of any described image read-out is characterized in that among the claim 1-19, comprising:

Select step, according to original copy be the result of determination of blank sheet of paper original copy respectively with distinct program output testing result, above-mentioned choice device is indicated corresponding a kind of trace routine from the plurality of detection procedure Selection with the user;

The output step is if from the selected trace routine output of above-mentioned selection step testing result, export the notice of confirming original copy to the user.

26. the detection blank sheet of paper original copy method of an image read-out scans original copy, reading images information is characterized in that, comprising:

Determination step is judged whether blank sheet of paper original copy of original copy;

27. detection blank sheet of paper original copy method according to the image read-out described in claim 25 or 26, it is characterized in that, be provided with first trace routine as above-mentioned plurality of detection program, original copy is judged as blank sheet of paper original copy occasion, just exports the testing result that this original copy is the blank sheet of paper original copy at once.

28. detection blank sheet of paper original copy method according to any described image read-out among the claim 25-27, it is characterized in that, be provided with second trace routine as above-mentioned plurality of detection program, the original copy that is judged to be blank sheet of paper reaches and sets the number occasion, and output is the testing result of blank sheet of paper original copy.

29. detection blank sheet of paper original copy method according to any described image read-out among the claim 25-28, it is characterized in that, be provided with the 3rd trace routine as above-mentioned plurality of detection program, all original copys all are judged as blank sheet of paper original copy occasion, and output is the testing result of blank sheet of paper original copy.

30. detection blank sheet of paper original copy method according to any described image read-out among the claim 25-29, it is characterized in that, be provided with and stop step and continue step, when the notice occasion is confirmed in output, the above-mentioned step that stops to stop above-mentioned original copy reading images information, when by above-mentioned stop step and stop to read above-mentioned image information after, if the user has " continuations " indication, then continue step and control and continue to read above-mentioned original copy.