JP2002094711A - Imaging unit, imaging method, and information read system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem of a conventional information read system employing a handy scanner read information only in a fixed read mode in matching with a host device body, because the handy scanner can only operate in several fixed read modes. SOLUTION: The imaging unit, having an imaging means that converts the optical image of an object into electrical signal and selectively able to transmit the signal to external devices, is provided with a mode selection means that selects the operating mode, a setting means that sets an external device to which the signal is transmitted depending on the operating mode, a signal processing means that applies prescribed processing to the signal in response to the operating mode, and a transmission means that transmits the signal subjected to the prescribed processing by the signal processing means to the external device set by the setting means.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus such as a facsimile, a copying machine, a scanner, a camcorder, and a digital camera, an imaging method, and an information reading system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Facsimile has almost completely spread to general companies, and in recent years has spread widely to general households. A
In a company that needs to read a large number of standard sheet-shaped originals such as four sizes at a time, there is a great demand for a facsimile having a large-capacity and high-speed automatic document feeder (ADF). However, in an ordinary household, a large number of originals are not read at once, and the ADF does not need to have such a large capacity. Rather, there is a strong demand for a facsimile capable of reading various originals, such as large-format originals such as newspapers, irregular-shaped originals, and originals such as books and magazines that do not pass through the ADF. In order to meet these demands, a so-called handy scanner system in which a reading unit is configured to be detachable from a facsimile apparatus main body, is widely used.

However, in the conventional handy scanner,
Since the power supply cable and the signal cable were connected, there was a problem that the usability was not good.

In order to solve such a problem, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 55-14626 proposes a technique for transferring image information read by a scanner to a plotter by wireless communication.

Further, such cordless communication applied to a facsimile apparatus is disclosed in, for example,
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 193658 discloses that the handy scanner unit is configured to be driven by a battery, has an image memory that stores read image information, and a transfer unit that transfers the stored image information to the main unit. There is disclosed a technology for facsimile communication of the selected image information to a scheduled partner station.

According to such a facsimile apparatus having a structure in which the handy scanner section and the main body section are separated from each other, the handy scanner section has no cables such as a power cord, thereby improving the usability.

Further, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Publication No. 2-49264 discloses a technology in which a telephone function unit of a facsimile apparatus is a cordless telephone so that transmission and reception processing can be performed by remote operation.

[0008] With the development of the cordless system, the configuration of the electric circuit in the facsimile apparatus has been greatly different from the conventional one. Until now, the handy scanner unit and the main unit were always connected by a cable.
The control section for controlling the recording section / communication section, etc., and the gate array for performing image processing of the read image should all be provided on the main body of the apparatus. Parts, gate arrays,
It is necessary to provide a memory unit for storing image data, a power supply unit for driving them, and a control unit for controlling a recording unit and a communication unit on the apparatus body side.

Further, the facsimile reading section has become cordless and the reading section / recording section has become more and more colorized, so that even in ordinary households, color copying as well as color copying is possible.

[0010] In addition, the demand and usage rate of personal computers are increasing, and the demand for scanners is increasing as a terminal device indispensable for using personal computers.

[0011]

However, in each of the above-mentioned prior arts, the handy scanner can only operate in several fixed reading modes from the handy scanner side, and can only read in the reading mode adapted to the main body of the fixed external device. I could not do it.

For this reason, with the diversification of the reading function, it is necessary to perform reading operations such as resolution and color mode for each of a plurality of external device bodies.

In order to further simplify the operation, it is necessary to automatically operate the external apparatus main body in synchronization with the reading operation only by operating the handy scanner.

[0014]

The present invention is configured as follows to solve the above-mentioned problems. That is, the imaging device according to claim 1 is an imaging device that includes an imaging unit that converts an optical image of a subject into an electric signal and that can selectively transmit the signal to a plurality of external devices. Mode selection means for selecting an operation mode, setting means for setting the external device that transmits the signal according to the operation mode, and signal processing means for performing a predetermined process on the signal according to the operation mode. Transmitting means for transmitting the signal, which has been subjected to predetermined processing by the signal processing means, to the external device set by the setting means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image pickup apparatus comprising an image pickup means for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, and capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. Setting means for setting the external device that transmits the signal in accordance with an operation mode; and mode information transmission means for transmitting mode information indicating the operation mode to the external device set by the setting device. Processing information receiving means for receiving processing information transmitted from the external device in accordance with the mode information; signal processing means for performing predetermined processing on the signal in accordance with the processing information; And transmitting means for transmitting the processed signal to the external device set by the setting means.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image pickup apparatus comprising an image pickup means for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, and capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. Setting means for setting the external device transmitting the signal; mode selecting means for selecting an operation mode; signal processing means for performing predetermined processing on the signal in accordance with the operation mode; Transmitting means for transmitting the signal subjected to predetermined processing by the means to the external device set by the setting means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image pickup apparatus comprising an image pickup means for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, and capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. Setting means for setting the external device transmitting the signal; setting information creating means for creating setting information indicating the external device set by the setting means; and Setting information transmitting means for transmitting the setting information to an external device; processing information receiving means for receiving processing information transmitted from the external device in accordance with the setting information; Signal processing means for performing processing, transmission means for transmitting the signal subjected to predetermined processing by the signal processing means to the external device set by the setting means,
It is characterized by having.

An imaging method according to a thirteenth aspect includes an imaging step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the signal can be selectively transmitted to a plurality of external devices. A mode selection step of selecting an operation mode; a setting step of setting the external device that transmits the signal according to the operation mode; and a signal processing of performing a predetermined process on the signal according to the operation mode. And a transmission step of transmitting the signal subjected to the predetermined processing in the signal processing step to the external device set in the setting step.

An image pickup method according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention comprises an image pickup step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the signal can be selectively transmitted to a plurality of external devices. There is a setting step of setting the external device that transmits the signal according to an operation mode, and a mode information transmission step of transmitting mode information indicating the operation mode to the external device set by the setting step, A processing information receiving step of receiving processing information transmitted from the external device in accordance with the mode information, a signal processing step of performing predetermined processing on the signal in accordance with the processing information, and a predetermined processing performed by the signal processing step A transmitting step of transmitting the processed signal to the external device set in the setting step.

An image pickup method according to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention includes an image pickup step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the signal can be selectively transmitted to a plurality of external devices. A setting step of setting the external device transmitting the signal; a mode selecting step of selecting an operation mode; a signal processing step of performing a predetermined process on the signal in accordance with the operation mode; Transmitting the signal, which has been subjected to the predetermined process in the step, to the external device set in the setting step.

An image pickup method according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention comprises an image pickup step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the signal can be selectively transmitted to a plurality of external devices. A setting step of setting the external device transmitting the signal; a setting information creating step of creating setting information indicating the external device set by the setting step; and the setting step of the setting step. A setting information transmitting step of transmitting the setting information to an external device, a processing information receiving step of receiving processing information transmitted from the external device according to the setting information, and a predetermined A signal processing step of performing processing, and a transmission step of transmitting the signal subjected to predetermined processing in the signal processing step to the external device set in the setting step. And butterflies.

An information reading system according to claim 25, wherein the first terminal transmits an image signal, the second terminal receives an image signal, the first terminal, and the first terminal. An information reading system capable of communicating with a third terminal that mediates between the first terminal and the third terminal, the first terminal comprising: an imaging unit configured to convert an optical image of a subject into an electric signal; Mode selection means for selecting
Terminal selecting means for selecting a third terminal in accordance with a mode selection by the selecting means of the first terminal; and from the first terminal to the third terminal via the second terminal And an information transmitting means for transmitting the electrical signal information converted by the first terminal by the first terminal.

An information reading system according to claim 26, wherein the first terminal transmits the image signal, the second terminal receives the image signal, the first terminal, and the first terminal. An information reading system capable of communicating with a third terminal that mediates between the first terminal and the third terminal, the first terminal comprising: an imaging unit configured to convert an optical image of a subject into an electric signal; Terminal selection means for selecting the second terminal, mode selection means for selecting an operation mode of the first terminal according to the terminal selected by the terminal selection means of the first terminal, Information transmitting means for transmitting electric signal information converted by the first terminal to the third terminal from the first terminal to the third terminal via the second terminal; It is characterized by.

[0024]

Next, an embodiment of a facsimile apparatus to which the present invention is applied will be described.

(First Embodiment) An embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a facsimile machine will be described below. 1 and 2 are a perspective view and a sectional view, respectively, of a facsimile apparatus main body for explaining the present embodiment. Reference numeral 1 denotes a facsimile apparatus main body.
ASF (Auto Sheet 2) separates and feeds recording paper one by one.
Feeder) unit, 3 is a recording unit that records images on the recording paper conveyed from the ASF unit 2, 4 is an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) unit that separates and feeds documents one by one, and 5 is conveyed from the ADF unit 4. A reading unit for reading an image of a document placed on the downstream side of the recording unit 3. Reference numeral 6 denotes a handy scanner unit which is configured to be detachable from the apparatus main body and forms a part of a reading unit when attached to the main body. Reference numeral 7 denotes a button for operating the apparatus main body 1 and a display unit 72 which shows the state of the apparatus. This is an operation panel section provided with.

First, the recording operation will be described. The arrow S indicates the direction in which the recording paper is conveyed. Reference numeral 11 denotes a tray which is detachably provided to the apparatus main body so as to support the rear end of the recording paper set in the ASF unit 2 so as not to hang down. The tray 11 is also used as a tray for originals set in the ADF unit 4. Reference numeral 12 denotes an opening for loading recording paper on the apparatus 1. Reference numeral 21 denotes a pressure plate which is configured to be rotatable up and down around a fulcrum 21a, and a plurality of recording sheets are stacked on the upper surface thereof. A pressing spring 22 presses and rotates the pressure plate 21 upward. In the initial state, the pressure plate is held downward against the pressing force of the pressing spring 22. Reference numeral 23 denotes a recording paper width slider that regulates movement of the recording paper in the width direction. Reference numeral 24 denotes a recording paper pickup roller, and reference numeral 25 denotes a separation sheet for separating recording paper one by one. Numeral 26 denotes a sensor for detecting the leading end of the recording paper fed separately one by one.

Reference numeral 31 denotes an ink cartridge which can be attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1 for recording an image by discharging ink onto recording paper. A guide shaft 32 serves as a guide when the ink cartridge 31 reciprocates in the width direction of the recording paper. Reference numeral 33 denotes a feed roller, and reference numeral 34 denotes a pinch roller which is pressed against the feed roller 33 by a spring (not shown) and is driven by the feed roller. Reference numeral 35 denotes a spur, and reference numeral 36 denotes a paper discharge roller pressed against the spur.

When a signal to start recording is sent, a recording paper transport motor (not shown) rotates to release the holding state of the pressure plate 21, lift the leading end of the recording paper loaded in the opening 12, and raise the pickup roller 24. Turn clockwise. The upper layer of the recording paper loaded on the pressure plate 21 contacts the pickup roller 24 and is conveyed in the direction of arrow S,
The lower recording paper is stopped by the separation sheet 25, and the uppermost recording paper is separated one by one and conveyed to the recording unit. After detecting the leading edge of the separated recording paper by the sensor 26, the motor is rotated by a predetermined number of steps, the recording paper is nipped by the nip portion between the feed roller 33 and the pinch roller 34, and the printing position under the ink cartridge 31 is set. Transport the leading edge of the recording paper until it stops. And at this time, the pressure plate 2
1 is held in the initial state and enters the standby state. Next, the ink cartridge 31 is driven by a motor (not shown) to make one reciprocation in the width direction of the recording paper, and the ink is discharged onto the recording paper conveyed to the printing position to record an image. The ink cartridge 31 is provided with ink ejection nozzles for several lines in the recording paper transport direction.
An image for several lines can be recorded in a reciprocating manner. When the operation of the ink cartridge 31 has been completed for one reciprocation, the recording paper transport motor is rotated to cause the recording paper to move to the ink cartridge 31.
Is conveyed by the number of lines recorded in one round trip, and the next image data is newly recorded. Hereinafter, the reciprocating operation of the ink cartridge 31 and the conveying operation of the recording paper are sequentially repeated to record an image on the recording paper. When the image data for one page ends, or when the sensor 26 detects the trailing edge of the recording paper and conveys the recording paper for a predetermined number of steps and the trailing edge of the recording paper comes to the printing position, the recording operation for one page of the recording paper is performed. And discharges the toner to the opening 13 provided below the front surface of the apparatus main body 1 to end a series of operations. If there is image data for the next page, the above series of operations are repeated to perform recording.

Next, the reading operation will be described. Arrow D indicates the document transport path. Reference numeral 14 denotes an opening for setting a document, and 15 denotes a document slider for regulating the width direction of the set document. Reference numeral 57 denotes a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a document. 41 is a separation roller, 42 is a separation piece provided rotatably about a fulcrum 42a, 43 is a spring for urging the separation piece 42 counterclockwise, and the separation piece 42 is pressed against the separation roller 41. It is configured as follows.

Reference numeral 51 denotes a feeding roller, and 52 denotes a feeding roller 51.
The sheet feed roller opposes the sheet feeding roller 51 by a leaf spring 55. Reference numeral 61 denotes a contact image sensor (CIS) for reading image information of a document. Reference numeral 54 denotes a read white reference plate provided at a position facing the CIS 61. The CIS 61 reads the white reference plate 54 before reading the document and reads a read signal. The output level of the original is corrected, and the original is prevented from fluttering by its own weight from above (back side) while the original is being read. A discharge roller 53 is provided downstream of the CIS 61.
And a roller 62 that is driven in opposition is disposed in opposing pressure contact.
The discharge roller 53 is pressed against the roller 62 by a leaf spring 55. Reference numeral 56 denotes a sensor for detecting a state of attachment / detachment of the handy scanner 6 to / from the apparatus main body 1.

The original is set in the opening 14 and the sensor 5
7 detects the setting of a document, and when an operator presses a reading start button (not shown) provided on the operation panel section 7, a reading motor (not shown) rotates to drive the separation roller 41 counterclockwise. The document is conveyed downstream while being separated by a separation piece 42 pressed against a separation roller 41 rotating counterclockwise. Only the lowermost sheet is separated and conveyed to the document reading unit 5. The document separated by the ADF unit 4 is guided to a nip portion between a feeding roller 51 and a feeding roller 52, and is nipped and conveyed. When the leading end of the document is detected by a sensor (not shown) provided near the feeding roller 51, the reading motor rotates a predetermined number of steps and then stops, and the document is moved to the CIS
Stop at a predetermined position just before. After that, CIS61
Reads the shading data of the white reference plate 54 and corrects the output level of the read signal. Then, the reading motor is rotated again to convey the original document by a predetermined number of steps, and
After reaching the 61 reading lines, the lower surface of the document is sequentially read line by line. The document that has been read is guided to the nip portion between the paper discharge rollers 53 and the rollers 62, nipped and conveyed, and discharged out of the apparatus through the opening 16 provided on the front surface of the apparatus.
When a plurality of originals are set, the reading motor is rotated until the sensor 57 detects that there is no original,
The document is separated and conveyed one by one in the F section 4, and the CIS 61
To repeat the operation of reading image data.

Next, the overall configuration of the apparatus will be described. 3 and 4 are a perspective view and a sectional view, respectively, showing a state when the operation panel unit 7 is opened. FIGS. 5 and 6 are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, showing how the handy scanner is taken out. The CIS 61 and the roller 62 are supported by a housing 63 and are configured as a handy scanner unit 6 so as to be integrally detachable from the apparatus main body 1. The housing 63 has a function as a guide member for guiding the lower surface of the document and a function as a guide member for guiding the upper surface of the recording paper. Reference numerals 58 and 59 denote guide members for guiding the upper surface and the lower surface of the document, respectively. The ADF unit 4, the feed roller 52, the paper discharge roller 53, the white reference plate 54, the sensor 56
57 is supported by the guide member 58. The guide member 59 is also supported by the guide member 58 to form the opening 14. The guide member 58 is fixed to the operation panel 7, and the operation panel 7 is
It is configured to be able to rotate up and down integrally with the camera. Reference numeral 73 denotes a release lever for releasing a lock (not shown) held and fixed by the operation panel unit 7 at a predetermined position of the apparatus main body 1. The operation panel unit 7 is unlocked by pushing up the release lever 73, and is rotatable around the fulcrum 71. By pushing the operation panel unit 7 upward, the document conveying path is exposed, and the document jam can be cleared, and the handy scanner 6 can be taken out. At this time, the replacement opening 17 of the ink cartridge 31 is exposed, and the ink cartridge can be accessed from the opening 17 so that the ink cartridge 31 can be replaced, for example, when the ink runs out. When the handy scanner 6 is detached from the apparatus main body 1, the upper portion of the opening 13 forming the recording paper discharge port is opened, and the jam of the recording paper becomes easy. As a result, the recording paper is discharged in the front direction of the apparatus, and problems such as difficulty in removing the recording paper are solved.

Reference numeral 8 denotes a holder for receiving a handy scanner which is provided to be swingable with respect to a fulcrum (not shown) of the apparatus main body. The holder 8 is urged upward by a spring (not shown), and when the handy scanner 6 is taken out, the holder 8 jumps upward, so that the handy scanner 6 can be easily received. 81 is a pair of guide rails provided on the inside of the left and right side walls of the holder 8, 64 is a pair of grooves provided on the left and right sides of the handy scanner housing 63. Mating each holder 8
Is configured to guide the handy scanner 6 until the handy scanner 6 is located at a predetermined position.

Reference numeral 82 denotes an interface connector provided on the back wall of the holder 8. The interface connector 65 provided on the handy scanner 6 when the handy scanner 6 is mounted at a predetermined position in the holder 8.
And the connector 82 are connected, and the handy scanner 6 and the apparatus main body 1 are electrically connected. The spring force of a spring (not shown) that has pushed up the holder 8 is set to be smaller than the pushing force of the handy scanner 6 due to its own weight.
When the handy scanner 6 is completely mounted on the holder 8,
The handy scanner 6 is lowered by its own weight together with the holder 8 until the handy scanner 6 collides with a striking position (not shown) provided on the apparatus main body 1, and the mounting of the apparatus main body 1 at a predetermined position is completed. When removing the handy scanner 6 from the apparatus main body 1, the lower handy scanner 6 is grasped by its own weight and pulled in parallel with the guide rail 81 (in the direction of the arrow X in the figure), and the guide rail 8 is moved.
1 and the groove 64 may be pulled out until the engagement is released.

When the handy scanner 6 is detached, the apparatus main body 1 is set in a mode in which only functions other than the reading function (telephone, reception, recording, etc.) can be operated, while the handy scanner 6 is in a state capable of manual scanning.

Next, the configuration of the handy scanner 6 which is the most characteristic of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which the handy scanner 6 alone is viewed below from the document reading surface (the vertical relationship when the handy scanner 6 is used alone is based on this state). Reference numeral 66 denotes a reading operation key provided on the upper surface of the handy scanner 6, reference numeral 67 denotes a switching key for designating a reading mode and a document size, and reference numeral 68 denotes an LED indicating the operating state of the handy scanner 6 by lighting or blinking.

In this embodiment, the switching key 67 can be roughly divided into three modes: a copy mode, a scan mode, and a facsimile mode.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the handy scanner 6, the apparatus body 1, and the external computer C in this embodiment.

The handy scanner 6 digitizes the output voltage from the reading section B3 comprising a CIS 61 for optically reading the original surface, the encoder B4 for measuring the moving amount of the handy scanner 6 from the rotation amount of the roller 62, and the reading section B3. An image processing unit B2, an image memory B7 for storing digitized image data, an interface B9 comprising a connector 65 electrically connected to the apparatus main body 1, an operation key 66 and a switching key 6
And an operation unit B6 comprising an LED 68 and a wireless interface B for performing wireless transmission with the main unit 1 and the external computer C
8, a control unit B1 that receives an input from the operation unit B6, the wireless interface B8, or the interface B9 to control the operation of the handy scanner 6, and a battery B5 that supplies power to the handy scanner 6.

On the other hand, on the main body side, an interface B15 comprising a connector 82 connected to the interface B9,
An operation unit B12 including an operation panel 7, a modem B13 connected to a telephone line and communicating with another communication terminal such as a facsimile, a memory unit B14 for storing image data, a recording unit B11 for outputting image data to recording paper, and the apparatus body 1 A control unit B10 for controlling the operation of the wireless interface B8, a wireless interface B16 for making a wireless connection with the wireless interface B8 of the handy scanner 6,
It is composed of a power supply B17 for supplying power to the apparatus main body.

The external computer C includes a control unit C1,
It comprises a keyboard C2, a display C3, a memory section C4 such as a hard disk, a power supply C5, a wireless interface C6 for making a wireless connection to the wireless interface B8 of the handy scanner 6, and various application software C7.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a state where the original surface is manually scanned using the handy scanner 6. In general, many facsimile machines are arranged so that the handset is held with the left hand, and this is because many people have the right hand as the dominant hand. This is the result of consideration to make it easy to perform complicated operations such as key input and document setting. Therefore, when the handset is held in the left hand, operations such as manual scanning of a document using the handy scanner 6 can be easily performed by the right hand without having to change the left and right sides. When the handy scanner 6 is manually scanned, it is most stable to scan the handy scanner 6 with the center substantially at the center in order to stabilize the straightness of the handy scanner 6. This is because the sliding resistance acting between the handy scanner 6 and the surface of the document or the surface on which the document is placed works equally to the right and left with respect to the scanning force by hand, and the handy scanner 6 is less likely to skew.

First, the case where the copy mode is selected by the switching key 67 and the original G is manually scanned by the handy scanner 6 as shown in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

When a copy mode is selected by operating a button provided on the scanner, information is read by selecting the mode. In this embodiment, the resolution for image reading is set, and the read image information is set. The device main body 1 is selected as an external device to be transmitted (S101). That is, the resolution of the recording unit of the main body 1 (360d in this embodiment)
The reading resolution is set according to pi).

Next, an image signal as information is read under the resolution set as described above (S102). Here, reading is performed by the reading unit B3 based on the above-described reading operation.

Next, under the resolution determined as described above, the amount of information read by the reading unit B3 is controlled by the image processing unit B2. In the present embodiment, the signal amount is controlled to 360 dpi, and a monochrome image is compressed for wireless transmission (S103). As for the compressed information, an information signal is wirelessly transmitted from the control unit B1 to the wireless interface B16 of the main unit 1 from the wireless interface B8 (in this embodiment, Bluetooth is used) (S10).
4). The above processing is performed until the image reading is completed (S1
05). In the main body 1, a recording operation (copy operation) is instructed from the control unit B10 to the recording unit 11. At this time, the copy operation is performed without operating the operation unit B12 of the main body 1.

Next, a case where the fax mode is selected by the switching key 67 and the document G is manually operated by the handy scanner 6 as shown in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, when the user of the scanner selects the facsimile mode, the main body 1 is selected as a higher-level device for transmitting the read image information. Here are two more
Types of modes, that is, the standard mode (about 100
dpi) and fine mode (about 200 dpi)
The type of mode is selected (S200). Then, the resolution corresponding to the selected mode is set (S201).
In this method, a mode is selected by operating a button provided on the scanner, and information is read by selecting the mode. In the present embodiment, the resolution for image reading is set.

Next, an image signal as information is read under the resolution set as described above (S202). Here, reading is performed based on the above-described reading operation.

The image signal as the information read by the reading unit B3 is subjected to signal processing according to the set information amount, here the resolution, by the image processing unit B2 (S203).
Encoding processing such as H, MR, and MMR and compression processing are performed.
Then, the processed information signal is wirelessly transmitted from the control unit B1 to the wireless interface B16 of the main unit 1 via the wireless interface B8 (S20).
4). A transmission operation is performed from the control unit B10 to the modem B13 to a facsimile machine (not shown) through a line. The above processing is performed until the image reading is completed (S20).
5). At this time, the operation unit B12
The facsimile machine to be transmitted is selected.

Although not shown in the present embodiment, if the transmission destination can be selected by providing the handy scanner 6 with a dial key or the like, transmission can be performed only by the handy scanner 6.

The handy scanner stores the image signal transmitted wirelessly in the memory section B14 of the apparatus main body 1, and after the reading of the original G by the handy scanner 6, the apparatus main body 1
The transmission partner may be selected by operating the operation unit B12.

Next, a case where the scan mode is selected by the switching key 67 and the original G is manually scanned by the handy scanner 6 as shown in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, the scanner user selects a scan mode. By selecting this mode, the control unit B1 selects the external computer C as a higher-level device for transmitting the read image information, and creates mode information (S301).
Then, the mode information is transmitted to the external computer C by communication between the wireless interfaces B8 and C6 (S304).

In the computer C, the handy scanner 6
When the mode information transmitted from is received (S403),
The installed image editing application software C7 is automatically started. Then, the information is transmitted to the scanner as processing information including the information amount recommended by the software C7, here, information on the resolution (S404) (S40).
5).

The scanner receives the processing information (S30).
5) Set the information reading resolution (information amount) according to the information on the resolution included in the received processing information (S3).
06).

Next, the image signal as information is read at the resolution determined as described above (S307). Here, reading is performed based on the above-described reading operation.

The image read by the reading unit B3 is the image processing unit B
2, signal processing such as encoding processing and compression processing is performed according to the information amount set in step S2 (S30).
8). The processed signal information is wirelessly transmitted as an image signal from the controller B1 to the wireless interface B8 and to the wireless interface C6 of the external computer C (S309), and the read image is displayed from the controller B10 via the software C7. It is displayed so that it can be edited on C3.

FIGS. 13 and 14 are views for explaining the state before and after the handy scanner 6 is mounted on the holder 8.

The cover 91 is configured to rotate about the hinge 91b. When the cover 91 is opened, a space for pushing the eject button 92 and for inserting and removing the memory card 93 can be secured. θ is the opening angle of the cover 91 and is set to 55 ° in this embodiment.

When the handy scanner 6 is mounted on the holder 8, the guide rail 81 and the groove 64 are fitted and pushed in the direction of the arrow Y until the handy scanner 6 is completely mounted on the holder 8. At this time, the hinge portion 91b of the cover 91 is on the front side in the mounting direction, and the open movable side is on the rear side. Reference numeral 83 denotes a cover regulating member provided at a position where it comes into contact with the cover 91 when the handy scanner 6 is mounted. If the operator forgets to close the cover 91, the cover restricting member 83 comes into contact with the cover 91, and the cover 91 is rotated in the closing direction with the pushing operation of the handy scanner 6, so that the handy scanner 6 is completely mounted on the holder 8. Then, the cover 91 is also completely closed. Further, while the handy scanner 6 is held by the holder 8, the cover restricting member 83 is always in contact with the cover 91 so that the cover 91 is not opened. In this embodiment, the cover 9
1 is set to 55 °, and according to an experiment, if the opening angle of the cover 91 is an acute angle of 90 ° or less, the cover restricting member 83 with respect to the mounting direction of the handy scanner 6.
Can achieve both the easiness of closing the cover 91 and the easiness of operation for inserting and removing the memory card. The cover restricting member 83 is provided on the holder 8 near the guide rail 81. In the case of a handy scanner that can read a document of B4 width, the length is close to 300 mm. Inevitably, the holder 8 also becomes a horizontally long part, and if this is molded with resin, the central part is warped and the like, and the control of the part dimensions becomes difficult. If the cover 91 is not completely closed,
1 and the cover restricting member 83 interfere with each other to
Troubles such as not being able to attach. Therefore, the guide rail 81 and the cover restricting member 83 are arranged in the vicinity and at the end of the component which is hardly affected by the warp, thereby avoiding the above-mentioned problem.

According to the present embodiment, the image signal is wirelessly transmitted to an external device adapted to a mode such as an operating condition, and the external device is operated in accordance with the reading setting so that a complicated operation is not performed. , Can easily operate a plurality of functions.

Further, by including the copy mode, the scan mode, and the fax mode, a plurality of functions can be operated by one reading unit.

The external device in the copy mode is
By using a printer or a multifunction device including a printer function, a copying operation can be automatically performed simultaneously with reading.

When the external device in the scan mode is a PC or a multifunction device having an image memory, the scanning operation can be automatically performed simultaneously with the reading.

When the external device in the fax mode is a fax or a multifunction device having a fax function, the fax operation can be automatically performed simultaneously with the reading.

The reading device is a portable handy scanner, so that the above functions can be easily operated remotely.

Further, the handy scanner can be constituted by one reading means by being a handy scanner detachable from the apparatus main body, and can be constituted at a low cost.

(Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
An embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The facsimile apparatus according to the second embodiment is the same as that shown in FIGS. Further, under the same configuration as the configuration shown in FIG. 8, the manual scanning state of the handy scanner shown in FIG. 9 is similarly implemented. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that an external device for transmitting an electric signal of a read image is set by a handy scanner. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the handy scanner can communicate with a plurality of external devices, and communicates with at least one or more external devices selected by the scanner user from among the plurality of external devices. Things. This will be described below with reference to the drawings.

First, FIG. 15 shows a case where the copy mode is selected by the switching key 67 and the main body 1 is selected as the transmission partner, and the original G is manually scanned by the handy scanner 6 as shown in FIG. This will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

When the main unit 1 is selected as a transmission partner by operating a button provided on the scanner (S500), and a copy mode is selected as an operation condition of the scanner (S501), information is read by the mode selection. In this embodiment, the resolution at the time of image reading is determined (S502). That is, the reading resolution is set in accordance with the resolution of the recording unit of the main body 1 (360 dpi in this embodiment).

Next, an image signal as information is read under the resolution set as described above (S503). Here, reading is performed by the reading unit B3 based on the above-described reading operation.

Next, under the resolution determined as described above, the amount of information read by the reading unit B3 is controlled by the image processing unit B2. In the present embodiment, the signal amount is controlled to 360 dpi, and a monochrome image is compressed and reduced for wireless transmission (S504). The compressed information is transmitted from the control unit B1 to the wireless interface B.
8 (using Bluetooth in this embodiment), an information signal is wirelessly transmitted to the wireless interface B16 of the main body 1 (S505). As a result, the control unit B10 sends the recording unit 11
A recording operation is performed, and in this embodiment, a copying operation is performed.

When an unillustrated LBP printer is selected with the switch key 67 and the main body 1 is selected as the transmission partner, the resolution of the recording unit of the LBP printer, for example, 300 d
The reading resolution can be determined in accordance with the resolution of 600 dpi or 600 dpi.

Here, in the present embodiment, Bluetooth is used as a wireless communication standard as described above. That is, a scanner that communicates wirelessly with a plurality of external devices will form a network with external devices within a range of approximately 10 meters. In this network, the scanner behaves as a so-called master, while multiple external devices behave as slaves. Therefore,
Until an external device transmitting information is selected from a plurality of external devices as in the present embodiment and a piconet is formed, the scanner sends a predetermined broadcast packet to the external devices connected thereto in a short cycle. Continue sending in. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a broadcast packet from a scanner functioning as a master is constantly monitored by an external device. Then, the scanner selects an external device forming the piconet, transmits the information to the master scanner only when it determines that it is addressed to itself while checking whether the external device is addressed to itself.

Next, FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a case in which a fax is selected as a transmission partner by using the switching key 67, a fax mode is selected, and the original G is manually operated by the handy scanner 6 as shown in FIG. It will be described using FIG.

First, it is assumed that the user of the scanner selects a fax as a transmission partner (S600) and selects a fax mode (S601). At this time, the scanner forms a piconet in the fax and Bluetooth standards as described above. Here are two more modes,
That is, one mode is selected from the standard mode (about 100 dpi) and the fine mode (about 200 dpi). By selecting this mode, the corresponding resolution is selected (S610). In this case, a mode is selected by operating a button provided on the scanner, and information is read by selecting the mode. In this embodiment, the resolution for image reading is set (S602).

Next, an image signal as information is read under the resolution set as described above (S603). Here, reading is performed based on the above-described reading operation.

The image signal which is the information read by the reading unit B3 is subjected to signal processing according to the set information amount, here the resolution, by the image processing unit B2 (S604).
Encoding processing such as H, MR, and MMR and compression processing are performed.
Then, the information signal subjected to the signal processing is wirelessly transmitted from the control unit B1 to the wireless interface B16 of the main body 1 via the wireless interface B8 (S60).
5). A transmission operation is performed from the control unit B10 to the modem B13 to a facsimile machine (not shown) through a line. At this time, the facsimile machine to be transmitted is selected in advance by the operation unit B12 of the apparatus main body 1.

Although not shown in the present embodiment, if the handy scanner 6 is provided with a dial key or the like so that a transmission partner can be selected, transmission can be performed only by the handy scanner 6.

Further, the image data transmitted from the handy scanner 6 by radio is stored in the memory section B14 of the main body 1 of the image signal apparatus.
The same effect can be obtained in the present embodiment even if the transmission partner is selected by operating the operation unit B12 of the scanning main body 1 after the reading of the original G by the handy scanner 6 is completed.

Next, a personal computer (hereinafter, referred to as "PC") is selected as a transmission partner with the switching key 67, a scan mode is selected, and the original G is manually scanned by the handy scanner 6 as shown in FIG. The case will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, when the scanner user selects a PC as a transmission partner (S700), the scanner creates setting information including a signal indicating that a PC has been selected as a transmission partner in the control unit 10 (S701). The setting information is transmitted to the external computer C through the communication between the interfaces B8 and C6 (S704). By receiving the setting information (S803), the computer C can recognize that it has been selected as a communication partner by the scanner user. More specifically, the control unit C1 allows the computer C to recognize the computer C as an external device by the scanner user. The selection is detected (S804). Thereby, as described above, the scanner and the PC form a piconet from the network between the PC and a plurality of external devices using the scanner as a master in the Bluetooth standard. After detecting that the PC has been selected, the PC automatically starts the installed image editing application software C7, and the recommended information amount of the software C7, here, the resolution (S
805) is transmitted to the scanner as processing information (S806).

The scanner receives the processing information (S70).
5) Set the information reading resolution (information amount) according to the information on the resolution included in the received processing information (S7).
06).

Next, an image signal, which is information, is read at the resolution set as described above (S707). Here, reading is performed based on the above-described reading operation.

The image read by the reading unit B3 is the image processing unit B
2, signal processing such as encoding processing and compression processing is performed according to the information amount set here, that is, resolution (S70).
8). Then, the image signal of the processed signal information is wirelessly transmitted from the control unit B1 from the wireless interface B8 to the wireless interface C6 of the external computer C (S709), and the read image is displayed from the control unit B10 via the software C7 to the display C3. Display editable above.

In this embodiment, the scanner user selects the PC as the transmission partner (S700). However, if the PC has two or more modes such as an image transfer mode, an image processing mode, and an image copy mode, The scanner user will select the desired mode. At this time, the setting information (S701) includes a signal indicating that the scanner user has selected a predetermined mode.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the image signal is wirelessly transmitted to the external device adapted to the mode such as the operating condition, and the external device is operated in accordance with the reading setting, whereby complicated operation is performed. , A plurality of functions can be easily operated.

(Other Embodiments) In the above embodiment, the ink jet recording system is used as the recording means. However, an electrophotographic recording system using a toner (laser beam printer) or an ink sheet and a thermal head are used. Of course, it may be configured by a thermal transfer recording method or the like.

The same effect can be obtained by applying the invention to an image reading / recording apparatus having a reading section and a recording section such as a copying machine or a scanner printer other than the facsimile apparatus.

In the above-described embodiment, the wireless communication means is constituted by Bluetooth.
Naturally, the same effect can be obtained even if a wireless communication system such as A is applied.

[0092]

As described above, the present invention has the following effects. That is, it is possible to easily operate a plurality of functions without performing complicated operations with an external device.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a facsimile apparatus according to a first embodiment that best illustrates the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the facsimile machine.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the facsimile machine.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the facsimile machine.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an operation of taking out a handy scanner of the facsimile apparatus.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view illustrating an operation of taking out a handy scanner of the facsimile apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a handy scanner.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a manual scanning state of the handy scanner.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flow when a copy mode is selected.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a flow when a fax mode is selected.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a flow when a PC is selected as a transmission partner.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the handy scanner is mounted on the apparatus main body.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the handy scanner is mounted on the apparatus main body.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a flow when the main body 1 is selected.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a flow when a fax is selected.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a flow when a PC is selected.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 apparatus body 11 tray 12 opening 13 opening 14 opening 15 document slider 16 opening 17 opening 2 ASF section 21 pressure plate 22 pressing spring 23 recording paper width slider 24 recording paper pickup roller 25 separation sheet 26 sensor 3 recording section 31 ink Cartridge 32 Guide shaft 33 Feed roller 34 Pinch roller 35 Spur 36 Paper discharge roller 4 ADF unit 41 Separation roller 42 Separation piece 42a Support point 43 Spring 5 Reading unit 51 Feed roller 52 Feed roller 53 Paper discharge roller 54 White reference plate 55 Plate Spring 56 Sensor 57 Sensor 58 Guide member 59 Guide member 6 Handy scanner unit 61 SIS 62 Roller 63 Handy scanner housing 63a Gripping unit 64 Groove unit 65 Connector 66 Operation key 67 Switching key 68 LED 7 Operation panel unit 71 Panel fulcrum 72 Display part 73 Release lever 8 Holder 81 Guide rail 82 Connector 83 Cover restricting member 9 Memory card slot 91 Cover 91a Knob 91b Hinge part 91c Projection 92 Eject button 93 Memory card 94 Detecting member 95 Substrate 96 Substrate B1 Control part B2 Image processing unit B3 Reading unit B4 Encoder B5 Battery B6 Operation unit B7 Image memory B8 Wireless interface B9 interface B10 Control unit B11 Recording unit B12 Operation unit B13 Modem B14 Memory unit B15 Interface B16 Wireless interface B17 Power supply C External computer C1 Control unit C2 Keyboard C3 display C4 memory section C5 power supply C6 wireless interface C7 application software

Continued on front page F term (reference) 5B047 AA01 BA03 CB10 CB16 CB30 5C022 AA11 AB68 AC11 AC31 AC42 AC69 CA07 5C062 AA02 AA05 AA13 AB02 AB20 AB40 AB42 AB46 AC08 AC25 AC42 AE16 AF14 5C072 AA01 BA20 PA04 XA01

Claims (26)

[Claims] 1. An image pickup apparatus comprising an image pickup means for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal and capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices, wherein a mode for selecting an operation mode is provided. Selecting means; setting means for setting the external device transmitting the signal in accordance with the operation mode; signal processing means for performing predetermined processing on the signal in accordance with the operation mode; Transmitting means for transmitting the signal subjected to the above processing to the external device set by the setting means. 2. An imaging device comprising: an imaging unit for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the imaging device is capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. Setting means for setting the external device for transmitting a signal; mode information transmitting means for transmitting mode information indicating the operation mode to the external device set by the setting means; and the external device according to the mode information Processing information receiving means for receiving the processing information transmitted from, signal processing means for performing predetermined processing on the signal in accordance with the processing information, and processing the signal subjected to predetermined processing by the signal processing means A transmission unit configured to transmit to the external device set by the setting unit. 3. An imaging apparatus comprising: an imaging unit for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the imaging apparatus is capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. Setting means for setting an external device; mode selecting means for selecting an operation mode; signal processing means for performing predetermined processing on the signal according to the operation mode; and predetermined processing performed by the signal processing means. A transmission unit configured to transmit the signal to the external device set by the setting unit. 4. An image pickup apparatus comprising an image pickup means for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, the image pickup apparatus being capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. Setting means for setting an external device; setting information creating means for creating setting information indicating the external device set by the setting means; and transmitting the setting information to the external device set by the setting means. Setting information transmitting means, processing information receiving means for receiving processing information transmitted from the external device in accordance with the setting information, signal processing means for performing predetermined processing on the signal in accordance with the processing information, A transmission unit for transmitting the signal, which has been subjected to predetermined processing by the signal processing unit, to the external device set by the setting unit. 5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising mode selection means for selecting an operation mode, wherein the setting information includes information on the operation mode. 6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined processing is processing for converting a resolution. 7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the mode includes a copy mode, a scan mode, and a facsimile mode. 8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the external device associated with the copy mode is a printer or a multifunction device having a printer function. 9. An external device according to the scan mode,
The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein the imaging device is a personal computer or a multifunction device having an image memory. 10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the external device associated with the fax mode is a fax or a multifunction device including a fax function. 11. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the imaging device is a handy scanner. 12. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 11, wherein said handy scanner is a handy scanner detachable from an apparatus main body. 13. An imaging method, comprising: an imaging step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein said signal can be selectively transmitted to a plurality of external devices, wherein an operation mode is selected. A selecting step; a setting step of setting the external device that transmits the signal according to the operation mode; a signal processing step of performing a predetermined process on the signal according to the operation mode; A transmission step of transmitting the signal subjected to the above processing to the external device set in the setting step. 14. An imaging method, comprising: an imaging step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein said signal can be selectively transmitted to a plurality of external devices. A setting step of setting the external device that transmits a signal, a mode information transmitting step of transmitting mode information indicating the operation mode to the external device set in the setting step, and the external device according to the mode information A processing information receiving step of receiving the processing information transmitted from the; a signal processing step of performing a predetermined process on the signal in accordance with the processing information; and A transmission step of transmitting to the external device set by the setting step. 15. An imaging method comprising: an imaging step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electrical signal, wherein the imaging method is capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. A setting step of setting an external device; a mode selection step of selecting an operation mode; a signal processing step of performing predetermined processing on the signal according to the operation mode; and a predetermined processing performed by the signal processing step. A transmission step of transmitting the signal to the external device set in the setting step. 16. An imaging method comprising: an imaging step for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, wherein the imaging method is capable of selectively transmitting the signal to a plurality of external devices. A setting step of setting an external device; a setting information creating step of creating setting information indicating the external device set in the setting step; and transmitting the setting information to the external device set in the setting step. A setting information transmitting step, a processing information receiving step of receiving processing information transmitted from the external device according to the setting information, a signal processing step of performing predetermined processing on the signal according to the processing information, A transmission step of transmitting the signal, which has been subjected to predetermined processing in the signal processing step, to the external device set in the setting step. 17. The imaging method according to claim 16, further comprising a mode selection step of selecting an operation mode, wherein the setting information includes information on the operation mode. 18. The imaging method according to claim 13, wherein the processing is processing for converting a resolution. 19. The imaging method according to claim 13, wherein the mode includes a copy mode, a scan mode, and a fax mode. 20. An external device associated with the copy mode,
20. The imaging method according to claim 19, wherein the imaging method is a printer or a composite device having a printer function. 21. The imaging method according to claim 19, wherein the external device associated with the scan mode is a personal computer or a multifunction device having an image memory. 22. The imaging method according to claim 19, wherein the external device associated with the fax mode is a fax or a composite device including a fax function. 23. The imaging method according to claim 13, wherein the imaging method is carried out by a portable handy scanner.
2. The imaging method according to any one of 2. 24. The imaging method according to claim 23, wherein the handy scanner is a handy scanner detachable from an apparatus main body. 25. A first terminal that transmits an image signal, a second terminal that receives an image signal, the first terminal, and a third terminal that mediates between the first terminals. An information reading system capable of communicating with a communication unit, wherein the first terminal includes an imaging unit for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, and a mode selection unit for selecting an operation mode. And a terminal selecting means for selecting a third terminal in accordance with a mode selection by the selecting means of the first terminal; and from the first terminal to the third terminal via the second terminal. On the other hand, an information reading system, comprising: an information transmitting means for transmitting the electrical signal information converted by the first terminal by the imaging means. 26. A first terminal for transmitting an image signal, a second terminal for receiving an image signal, the first terminal, and a third terminal for mediating between the first terminal. An information reading system capable of communicating with a communication unit, wherein the first terminal is an imaging unit for converting an optical image of a subject into an electric signal, and a terminal selection unit for selecting the second terminal. Mode selection means for selecting an operation mode of the first terminal according to the terminal selected by the terminal selection means of the first terminal; and the second terminal from the first terminal An information transmitting unit that transmits electrical signal information converted by the first terminal to the third terminal via the first terminal via the imaging unit.