JP2003189064A - Solid-state image sensor and image input device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a solid-state image sensor and an image input device which can greatly reduce time to scan a whole manuscript displayed on one screen without reducing time required for one cycle with an optional resolution. <P>SOLUTION: Three or more light receiving lines a, b, and c, and transfer devices 42 and 43 which transfer charge for each light receiving line are provided. These lines are arranged in order along a Y direction. Among them, lines other than a specified line (a, b) are arranged closely in the Y direction, and form a first long and narrow light receiving area 41(1) in an X direction. The specified light receiving line (c) is placed at the location away from the first light receiving area 41(1) in the Y direction at an interval of Ds, and forms a second long and narrow light receiving area 41(2) in the X direction. The interval Ds between the first and the second areas 41(1) and 41(2) is equivalent to N times Da (N is an integer of one or more), a length along the Y direction of the light receiving line. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a solid-state image pickup device for picking up light from a transparent original (for example, developed photographic film) or a reflective original (for example, paper), and an image input for reading an image of the transparent original or the reflective original. Regarding the device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a scanner (image input device) which reads an image of a transparent original or a reflective original (generally called an original) and inputs the image data into a host computer. The scanner incorporates an inexpensive monochrome one-line sensor (one-dimensional solid-state image sensor) as an image sensor for capturing light (transmitted light or reflected light) from a document. As shown in FIG. 18, the monochrome 1-line sensor has a plurality of light receiving units 51 arranged one-dimensionally. In addition, the scanner has a monochrome 1 line sensor in a direction orthogonal to the scanning (main scanning) direction of the monochrome 1 line sensor.
A sub-scanning mechanism that relatively moves the line sensor and the document is also incorporated.

In such a scanner, the image of the original is two-dimensionally read by alternately repeating the one-line reading by the monochrome one-line sensor and the predetermined line movement by the sub-scanning mechanism. The reading resolution is determined by the relative movement amount (number of lines) by the sub-scanning mechanism. Incidentally, 1-line reading by the monochrome 1-line sensor means exposure to a plurality of light receiving units 51 provided in the monochrome 1-line sensor.

By the way, when a color image of an original is two-dimensionally read using a monochrome one-line sensor, red (R)
The color separation of the three colors of green (G) and blue (B) is performed by switching light emission from the illumination light source for the original, and one line reading by the monochrome one-line sensor is, for example, R exposure → G exposure →
Like the B exposure, it is sequentially performed for each color. Then, when the exposure of the final color (B) is completed, a predetermined line movement is performed by the sub-scanning mechanism.

That is, a two-dimensional image using the above three colors
To read (one screen), read "1 line reading (R exposure →
The sequence of “G exposure → B exposure) → movement of a predetermined line” is repeated (see FIG. 19). The charges (R image data) accumulated in each light receiving portion 51 of the monochrome 1-line sensor due to the exposure of the leading color (R) are started to be transferred at the same time when the next G exposure is started. Each light receiving portion 51 by G exposure
The electric charge (G image data) accumulated in is started to be transferred at the same time when the next B exposure is started. Furthermore, the electric charge (B image data) accumulated by the exposure of the final color (B) is started at the same time as the start of the predetermined line movement or during the movement of the predetermined line. Usually, the transfer of the B image data is completed during the movement of the predetermined line.

Here, the period required to move a predetermined line (from the end of the B exposure of the last color to the start of the R exposure of the first color)
Is a non-exposure period in which each light receiving unit 51 of the monochrome 1-line sensor is not exposed. However, even in the non-exposure period, some unnecessary charges are accumulated in each light receiving section 51. Therefore, the unnecessary charges (invalid data) accumulated in the non-exposure period are started to be transferred at the same time when the R exposure of the first color is started.

As described above, a two-dimensional image using the above three colors
When reading (one screen), in parallel with the sequence of “R exposure → G exposure → B exposure → predetermined line movement”, “transfer of invalid data → transfer of R image data → transfer of G image data → B image data” The sequence of "transfer of" is repeatedly executed.

Incidentally, it takes a certain time from the start of transfer of various data (one-line data) in the monochrome one-line sensor to the end of transfer, regardless of the type of data. This fixed time is determined by the product of the number of light receiving units 51 of the monochrome 1-line sensor and the clock cycle. Hereinafter, this fixed time is referred to as "1 line transfer time (Tt)".

[0009]

By the way, when reading a color image (one screen) in the conventional scanner, the above-mentioned 2
The time required for one cycle (T1) from the start to the end of one sequence is the R exposure time (TR), the G exposure time (TG), and the B exposure time (TB) are one line transfer time (T). T
When it is longer than t) (FIG. 19A), it is represented by the following equation (1). Tm is the time required to move a predetermined line.

T1 = TR + TG + TB + Tm (1) (TR, T
G, TB> Tt) In this case, the exposure time (TR,
If TG, TB) is shortened, the time required for one cycle (T1)
Can also be shortened. Exposure time for each color (TR, TG,
TB) is equal to the irradiation time of the light emitted from the illumination light source to the document. However, in the conventional scanner, as shown in FIG.
As shown in (b), when the exposure time (TR, TG, TB) of each color is shorter than the 1-line transfer time (Tt), the final color
Even if the exposure time (TR, TG) other than (B) is further shortened,
The time required for one cycle (T1) could not be shortened due to the restriction due to the one-line transfer time (Tt).
The time (T1) in this case is expressed by the following equation (2).

T1 = Tt + Tt + TB + Tm (2) (TR, T
G, TB <Tt) Further, in order to shorten the time required for one cycle (T1),
It is conceivable to shorten the time (Tm) for moving the predetermined line, but even if the time (Tm) for moving the predetermined line is set shorter than the time (Tmm) shown in FIG. 19B, the required time (T1) is 1 It cannot be shorter than 4 times the line transfer time (Tt).
In other words, the time required for one cycle (T1) is at least 1
Four times as long as the line transfer time (Tt) is required.

Here, the monochrome 1-line sensor (FIG. 18)
The number of light receiving parts 51 is 4000 and the clock cycle is 400
If it is ns (assuming 4000 dpi class), the minimum required time (T1) for one cycle is 1 line transfer time (Tt)
× 4 = 4000 pieces × 400 ns × 4 = 6.4 ms. In order to shorten the time required for one cycle (T1), a method of speeding up the clock cycle of the monochrome 1-line sensor may be considered, but it is technically difficult to significantly speed up the clock cycle, and as a result, It cannot be expected that the required time (T1) will be significantly shortened.

Further, a configuration using a color 3-line sensor (FIG. 20) can be considered in place of the above-described configuration using the monochrome 1-line sensor and the switching light emission of the illumination light source. In this case, as shown in FIG. 21, since R exposure, G exposure, and B exposure can be executed simultaneously, the time for reading one line (the time required for exposing three colors) can be greatly shortened. However, even when the color three-line sensor is used, in order to read a two-dimensional image (one screen) of a document, it is necessary to move a predetermined line after reading one line (exposure of three colors). Further, the sub-scanning mechanism that executes the predetermined line movement has a certain delay time (TD) from the time when the drive pulse is received until the time when the drive pulse actually starts. Then, considering the time (Tm) for moving the predetermined line and the delay time (TD), the time required for one cycle when the color 3-line sensor is used.
(T2) is not so different from the required time (T1) shown in FIG. 19 (b).

An object of the present invention is to provide a solid-state image pickup device and an image input device capable of significantly reducing the entire scanning time of one screen of an original without reducing the time required for one cycle at any reading resolution. To do.

[0015]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of light receiving portions, each of which has a plurality of light receiving portions for accumulating charges according to incident light, are arranged in a one-dimensional array close to each other along one direction. A solid-state imaging device comprising the above, and further comprising a transfer section for transferring the charge accumulated in each light receiving section of said three or more light receiving lines for each light receiving line, wherein said three or more light receiving lines are The first light receiving units are arranged in order along a direction orthogonal to the one direction, except for a specific one of the three or more light receiving lines, arranged close to the orthogonal direction, and elongated in the one direction. A region is formed, and the specific one of the three or more light receiving lines is disposed at a position separated from the first light receiving region by a predetermined distance in the orthogonal direction, and is elongated in the one direction. Forming a light receiving region of the The predetermined distance between the second light receiving region, wherein (the N 1 or more integer) said N times the perpendicular length along the direction of linear arrays which corresponds to.

An image input device according to a second aspect of the present invention is a solid-state image pickup device according to the first aspect, wherein the illumination means illuminates a document with illumination light, and the light from the document illuminated with the illumination light is imaged. Moving means for relatively moving an image pickup line on the original corresponding to the light receiving line of the solid-state image pickup device and the original along a sub-scanning direction corresponding to the direction orthogonal to the solid-state image pickup device, At least the control means for controlling the solid-state image sensor and the moving means to read a two-dimensional image of the original document, wherein the control means is one of the three or more light-receiving lines of the solid-state image sensor. By controlling the light receiving line selection unit that selects any two and the transfer unit of the solid-state imaging device, the charges accumulated in each light receiving unit of the two light receiving lines selected by the light receiving line selection unit are received. Those having a transfer control unit for transferring each in the same time.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image input apparatus according to the second aspect, the control means controls the moving means so that the image pickup line and the imaging line are irradiated after the illumination light is emitted by the illumination means. A movement control unit that relatively moves the original document in the sub-scanning direction by a predetermined amount is provided, and the length of the imaging line in the sub-scanning direction is D1, which is selected by the light receiving line selection unit. When a distance between the two imaging lines corresponding to one light receiving line is D2 and a coefficient obtained by dividing the distance D2 by the length D1 is M (M is an integer of 0 or more), the movement control unit is configured to perform the imaging operation. The constant amount of relative movement between the line and the original is defined by the coefficient M
It is determined according to the divisor of the number (M + 1) obtained by adding 1 to.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image input device according to the third aspect, the constant amount is the (M + 1).
Is determined by multiplying the length D1 by the divisor. According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image input device according to the third aspect, the certain amount is
This is determined by multiplying (M + 1) by 2 and the length D1.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image input device according to the third aspect, the constant amount is the (M + 1).
(K × D1) obtained by multiplying a divisor K other than the maximum divisor of the above by the length D1 or (M
The sum of (+1) and the divisor K is set to an amount ((M + 1 + K) × D1) obtained by multiplying the length D1, and the movement control unit relatively moves the imaging line and the document. When moving, the relative movement corresponding to the above (K × D1)
After repeatedly executing ((M + 1) / K-1) times, the above ((M +
The relative movement corresponding to 1 + K) × D1) is executed once.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image input apparatus according to the third aspect, the control means has an input section for inputting a specified value of the reading resolution of the two-dimensional image of the original from the outside. The light receiving line selection unit selects any two of the three or more light receiving lines of the solid-state imaging device based on the designated value of the reading resolution, and the movement control unit determines the reading resolution of the reading resolution. Based on a designated value, the fixed amount of the relative movement between the imaging line and the document is set.

[0021]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The embodiment of the present invention is claim 1.
~ Corresponding to claim 3, claim 5 to claim 7. Here, an example of the image input device 10 for reading a color image of a document with transillumination will be described. The original in this case is a transparent original.
(Eg developed photographic film).

Several types of adapters can be set in the image input device 10, and can be used properly according to the type of transparent original to be read. FIG. 1 shows the image input device 10 with the slide mount adapter 10a set. In the image input device 10 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS.
Two insertion ports 13 are provided. The original 12 is held by the slide mount. The original 12 has an insertion slot 13
From the inside to the inside of the housing 11 and fixed at a predetermined position by the spring member 12a (state of FIG. 1A).

Here, the insertion direction of the original 12 into the image input device 10 is the "y direction", the width direction of the original 12 is the "x direction", and the direction orthogonal to the x and y directions is the "z direction". ". The insertion port 13 is a slit-shaped opening elongated in the x direction. An illumination light source 14, an illumination lens 15 a, and a reflection mirror 15 b are provided above the original 12 inside the housing 11 of the image input device 10. The illumination light source 14 is a light emitting diode (LE) that emits red (R) color light.
D), an LED that emits green (G) color light, and an LED that emits blue (B) color light (all not shown).

The illumination lens 15a converts the light emitted from the illumination light source 14 into a linear light along the x direction. The reflection mirror 15b reflects the linear light from the illumination lens 15a toward the original 12. With these illumination light source 14, illumination lens 15a, and reflection mirror 15b (illumination means),
The original 12 is irradiated with linear light (illumination light) along the x direction. The area of the original 12 irradiated with the illumination light is an area for at least three lines (imaging lines a, b, c in FIG. 3 described later).

A reflection mirror 16a, a projection lens 16b, and an image sensor 17 are provided below the original 12 inside the housing 11 of the image input apparatus 10. The reflection mirror 16a reflects the transmitted light from the original 12 toward the projection lens 16b. The projection lens 16b forms an image of the light from the reflection mirror 16a on the image sensor 17.
The image sensor 17 is a monochrome image sensor that captures light from the projection lens 16b (transmitted light from the original 12) (solid-state image sensor). Here, the configuration of the image sensor 17 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing an enlarged main part of the image sensor 17.

As shown in FIG. 2, the image sensor 17 includes three light receiving lines a, b and c (indicated by a long and thin thick frame in the figure), a lead-out gate (ROG) 42, and
A CCD analog shift register 43 is provided. Each of the three light-receiving lines a, b, and c is arranged in a one-dimensional array in close proximity to each other in one direction (for example, 4000).
The light receiving portions 41 of the respective light receiving portions 41 accumulate charge according to incident light (transmitted light from the original 12). In the description of the image sensor 17, the arrangement direction (the above-mentioned one direction) of the light receiving portions 41 in the light receiving lines a, b, and c is referred to as “X direction”, and the direction orthogonal to the X direction is referred to as “Y direction”.

In the present embodiment, each light receiving section 41
The sizes Dx and Dy of both are 8 μm. The pitch Px between the light receiving portions 41 adjacent to each other in the X direction in the light receiving lines a, b, c is equal to the size Dx (8 μm) of the light receiving portions 41. As used herein, pitch represents the distance between centers. The three light receiving lines a, b, c are arranged in order along the Y direction. Therefore, the k-th light receiving portions 41 of the three light receiving lines a, b, and c (for example, the hatched light receiving portions 41 in the drawing) are arranged in the Y direction. The above k is an integer that satisfies 1 ≦ k ≦ n.

Further, other than a specific one (light receiving line c) of the three light receiving lines a, b, c, that is, the two light receiving lines a, b are arranged close to each other in the Y direction and are arranged in the X direction. An elongated light receiving area 41 (1) is formed. Light receiving area 41
(1) is an area shown by a dotted frame in the figure,
Corresponding to the "light receiving area". As a result of the two light receiving lines a and b being arranged close to each other, the pitch Py between the light receiving portions 41 adjacent in the Y direction between the light receiving lines a and b is the light receiving portion 41.
Of Dy (8 μm).

As described above, since the size Dy of the light receiving section 41 is equal to the size Dx (both 8 μm), the pitch Py in the Y direction between the light receiving sections 41 is also the pitch Px in the X direction.
be equivalent to. That is, in the light receiving region 41 (1), the pitch between the light receiving portions 41 is constant regardless of the arrangement direction of the light receiving portions 41, and the plurality of (2n) light receiving portions 41 are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction. It means that they are arranged in a square lattice shape along the line.

Further, a specific one light receiving line c other than the light receiving lines a and b is provided from the above light receiving area 41 (1) to Y.
They are arranged at positions separated by a predetermined distance Dc in the direction, and form an elongated light receiving region 41 (2) in the X direction. Light receiving area 4
Similar to the light receiving area 41 (1), 1 (2) is an area shown by a dotted frame in the figure and corresponds to the "second light receiving area" in the claims.
Distance Dc between the light receiving area 41 (1) and the light receiving area 41 (2)
Corresponds to seven times the length along the Y direction of each of the light receiving lines a, b, and c (size Dy of light receiving unit 41). That is, the light receiving area 41 (1) and the light receiving area 41 (2) are formed with a space Dc (= 7 × Dy) for seven lines.

In other words, in the three light receiving lines a, b, c of the image sensor 17, the light receiving line a and the light receiving line b are arranged close to each other with a pitch Py (= Dy) for one line, This means that b and the light receiving line c are arranged at a pitch Pc of 8 lines (= 8 × Py = 8 × Dy). Further, the light receiving line a and the light receiving line c are
Pitch for 9 lines Py + Pc (= 9 × Py = 9 × D
In y), they are placed apart. As mentioned above, the pitch represents the distance between the centers.

Further, in the image sensor 17, the read-out gate 42 and the CCD analog shift register 43 (transfer section) have the above-mentioned three light receiving lines a, b, and
It is provided for each c. Lead-out gate 42, C
The CD analog shift register 43 includes light receiving lines a, b,
The electric charge accumulated in each light receiving portion 41 of c is received by the light receiving lines a, b,
It is transferred for each c.

Here, the lead-out gate 42 transfers charges from the light receiving section 41 to the CCD analog shift register 43 in parallel. CCD analog shift register 4
3 serially transfers the charge from the read-out gate 42 and outputs it to the preamplifier 26 (FIG. 4) described later.
The image sensor 17 configured in this way is arranged in the following orientation inside the housing 11 of the image input device 10 (FIG. 1). That is, the original 1 described above is arranged in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the light receiving lines a, b, c of the image sensor 17.
2 in the width direction (x direction), and the light receiving line a,
The b and c width directions (Y direction) are aligned in the z direction (state of FIG. 3A).

However, since the above-mentioned reflection mirror 16a is arranged between the image sensor 17 and the original 12, the width of the light receiving lines a, b, c (Y direction) is the original 12 on the original 12. Corresponds to the insertion direction (y direction). That is, optically, the image sensor 17 is arranged such that the width direction (Y direction) of the light receiving lines a, b, and c is aligned with the insertion direction (y direction) of the original 12.

Therefore, the areas (imaging lines a, b, c) on the original 12 corresponding to the light receiving lines a, b, c of the image sensor 17 are as shown in FIG. 3B. Similar to b and c, the area is elongated in the x direction (width direction of the original 12). In addition, the width direction of the imaging lines a, b, c is y
It is parallel to the direction (insertion direction of the original 12). The imaging lines a, b, and c are arranged in the order of c → b → a from the insertion opening 13 (FIG. 1A) side.

The image pickup lines a, b and c on the original 12 are
The area is projected on the light receiving lines a, b, c of the image sensor 17 by the reflection mirror 16a and the projection lens 16b. Therefore, the imaging lines a, b, and
The light transmitted through c respectively enters the light receiving lines a, b, c of the image sensor 17 and is received there. The length Da of the imaging lines a, b, c along the y direction (FIG. 3 (b)) is the same as the length of the light receiving lines a, b, c along the Y direction (size Dy of the light receiving unit 41). It depends on the magnification of the projection lens 16b. For example, the size Dy of the light receiving unit 41 is 8 μm,
If the magnification of the projection lens 16b is 1.26, the length Da of the imaging lines a, b, c is 6.35 μm (= 8 μm / 1.2).
6). This corresponds to 4000 dpi on the original 12. The length Da corresponds to "length D1" in the claims.

By the way, of the imaging lines a, b and c, 2
The two imaging lines a and b are formed close to each other in the y direction. Further, the remaining one imaging line c is formed with an interval Db (= 7 × Da) of 7 lines in the y direction from the imaging line b. In other words, the imaging lines a and b
Are formed close to each other with a pitch Pa (= Da) for one line, and the imaging lines b and c are pitch Pb (= 8 ×) for eight lines.
Pa = 8 × Da), which means that they are formed separately. Pitch represents the distance between the centers.

In this way, the image sensor 17
The light receiving portions 41 of the two light receiving lines a, b, and c are respectively the originals 1
It is exposed by the transmitted light from the two imaging lines a, b, and c to accumulate electric charges. In the image sensor 17, normally,
Exposure to each light receiving section 41 and read-out gate 4
2. The transfer of charges in the CCD analog shift register 43 is performed in parallel.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, inside the housing 11 of the image input apparatus 10, there is provided a scan block 19 which can be moved stepwise in the y direction at fine intervals. The scan block 19 includes the above-mentioned illumination unit (14, 1).
5a, 15b) and a projection section (16a, 16b, 17) are housings for accommodating and integrating a reading optical system. In FIG. 4, the illumination lens 15a and the reflection mirrors 15b and 16 are shown.
a, the projection lens 16b is omitted in the drawing.

The scan block 19 is guided by the guide bar 44 (FIG. 1B) and is movable in the y direction. The scan block 19 includes a reduction gear train (not shown), a nut 45 and a lead screw 4 shown in FIG.
The motor 18 is attached via 6 and 6. The motor 18 is a stepping motor. The scan block 19, the motor 18, the guide bar 44, the nut 45, and the lead screw 46 correspond to the "moving means" in the claims.

When the motor 18 rotates, the lead screw 46 is rotationally driven through the reduction gear train (not shown), and the nut 45 moves in the y direction. Therefore, the scan block 19 is guided by the guide bar 44 and moves in the direction. To do. As a result, the illumination unit (14, 1) mounted on the scan block 19 is
5a, 15b) and the projection unit (16a, 16b, 17) move in the y direction.

That is, with respect to the fixed original 12, the illumination area (the linear area along the x direction) by the illumination section (14, 15a, 15b) and the imaging line by the projection section (16a, 16b, 17). a, b, and c (FIG. 3) move in the y direction. The y direction corresponds to the "sub-scanning direction" in the claims. Further, the image input device 10 includes a control circuit 21 and an R
OM22, RAM23, LED driver circuit 24
, A timing generation circuit 25, a preamplifier 26, A
A / D converter 27, a motor driver circuit 28, and an interface 29 are provided.

The illumination light source 14 is connected to the control circuit 21 via the LED driver circuit 24. LE
The D driver circuit 24 individually switches each color LED of the illumination light source 14 to turn on or off according to an instruction from the control circuit 21. The instruction from the control circuit 21 to the LED driver circuit 24 includes information on the order and time for turning on the LEDs of each color of the illumination light source 14. According to the lighting order and lighting time of the LEDs of each color,
Linear light (illumination light) along the x direction is emitted. The illumination area of the original 12 includes at least the imaging lines a, b, c (FIG. 3).

The image sensor 17 is connected to the control circuit 21 via the timing generation circuit 25, and is also connected to the control circuit 21 via the preamplifier 26 and the A / D converter 27.

Timing generation circuit 25 (transfer control section)
The image sensor 1 according to the instruction of the control circuit 21.
A timing signal is output to 7. This timing signal is a clock signal for transferring the charge accumulated in each light receiving portion 41 of the light receiving lines a, b, c of the image sensor 17. Further, since the timing generation circuit 25 simultaneously controls two of the read-out gate 42 and the CCD analog shift register 43 provided for each of the three light receiving lines a, b, c, the timing signal is read by two read signals. The signals are simultaneously output to the out gate 42 and the CCD analog shift register 43.

As a result, in the image sensor 17, based on the timing signal from the timing generation circuit 25,
The electric charge of each light receiving portion 41 is simultaneously transferred from any two of the light receiving lines a, b and c (main scanning), converted into an analog image signal and output to the preamplifier 26. The analog image signal output to the preamplifier 26 is a signal for two lines obtained from any two of the light receiving lines a, b, and c.

Here, the transfer time TCCD of two lines of data in the image sensor 17 is one light receiving line.
It is determined by the product of the number n of the light receiving portions 41 of (a, b, c) and the clock cycle. When the number n of the light receiving units 41 is 4000 and the clock cycle is 400 ns, the transfer time TCC of 2 line data
D is 1.6 ms. The preamplifier 26 amplifies the two lines of analog image signals from the image sensor 17 and outputs the amplified analog image signals to the A / D converter 27. The A / D converter 27 converts the analog image signals of two lines amplified by the preamplifier 26 into digital signals of a predetermined number of bits (for example, 8 bits), and outputs digital image data of two lines to the control circuit 21. Output to.

The above-described motor 18 is connected to the control circuit 21 via the motor driver circuit 28. The motor driver circuit 28 outputs a drive pulse to the motor 18 based on an instruction from the control circuit 21 to rotate the motor 18. The motor 18 can be rotated by a predetermined amount according to the number of drive pulses, and the scan block 19 can be moved by a predetermined amount (a predetermined line) in the y direction (sub-scanning).

However, the timing at which the scan block 19 actually starts (start of movement of a predetermined line described later)
Is delayed from the timing at which the motor driver circuit 28 outputs the drive pulse to the motor 18, by a certain time. Such time (hereinafter referred to as “delay time TD”) is a value unique to the device. The control circuit 21 uses the LE
When controlling the D driver circuit 24, the timing generation circuit 25, and the motor driver circuit 28, the control program and various data stored in the ROM 22 are referred to. RO
The control program stored in M22 contains 2
An image input program that describes a procedure for reading a three-dimensional image (one screen) is included.

Further, the control circuit 21 converts the digital image data of 2 lines output from the A / D converter 27 into R.
The digital image data of 2 lines already stored in the RAM 23 is sequentially output to the interface 29 by parallel processing while being temporarily stored in the AM 23 (line buffer). The interface 29 is a circuit (for example, IEEE 1394) for communicating with the host computer 30.
Alternatively, the image input device 10 of the present embodiment is a high-speed I / F such as SCSI) and is connected to a host computer 30 via an interface 29.

By the parallel processing of the control circuit 21 described above,
The digital image data of 2 lines sequentially output from the RAM 23 to the interface 29 is the interface 2
9 is sequentially output to the host computer 30 side. By the way, the host computer 30 includes a CPU 31, a memory 32, a hard disk 33, and a CD-ROM 36.
It is composed of a CD-ROM drive 34 capable of loading a CD and an interface 35. CD-ROM 36,
It is a storage medium in which various programs and data are stored.
Although not shown, the host computer 30 also includes an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, a display device, and a printer.

Here, the LED driver circuit 24, the timing generation circuit 25, the preamplifier 26, and the A / D of this embodiment are used.
Converter 27, motor driver circuit 28, control circuit 21
Corresponds to "control means". The control circuit 21 and the motor driver circuit 28 correspond to a "movement control unit". The x direction corresponds to “one direction”, and the y direction corresponds to “direction orthogonal to one direction”.

Next, the operation of the image input apparatus 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6 and the timing chart of FIG. When the image input device 10 is powered on, the control circuit 21
Each part of the image input device 10 is initialized. By this initialization, the scan block 19 is positioned at a predetermined reference position.

Next, the control circuit 21 of the image input device 10
Waits until it receives a scan command from the host computer 30. The scan command is transmitted from the host computer 30 to the control circuit 21 of the image input apparatus 10 when the user performs a predetermined input operation on the host computer 30. The scan command includes information for designating the reading range of the original 12 and information for designating the reading resolution.

When the scan command is received, the control circuit 21 of the image input device 10 performs the process of step S1 in FIG. That is, arbitrary two of the three light receiving lines a, b, c (FIG. 2) of the image sensor 17 are selected based on the designated value of the reading resolution of the original 12. The two light receiving lines (a + b, b + c, c + a) selected here
Is used for reading a two-dimensional image of the original 12.

Here, the designated value of the reading resolution of the original 12 is one of the six (a) to (f) shown in FIG. The hatched portions in FIGS. 8A to 8F indicate the positions of the lines to be actually read in the reading range of the document 12. As shown in FIG.
When the reading range of 1 is read at the highest resolution (4000 dpi), "pitch 1" is input to the control circuit 21 as the designated value of the reading resolution. At this time, the control circuit 21 selects the light receiving lines (a + b) arranged in close proximity at the pitch (Dy) for one line (S1 in FIG. 5).

Further, as shown in FIG. 8B, when the reading range of the original 12 is read at 1-line intervals (2000
“Dip 2” is input to the control circuit 21 as a designated value of the reading resolution. At this time, the control circuit 21 selects the light receiving lines (b + c) arranged at a pitch of 8 lines (8 × Dy) apart (S1 in FIG. 5). Further, as shown in FIG. 8C, when reading the reading range of the document 12 at intervals of two lines, “pitch 3” is input to the control circuit 21 as a designated value of the reading resolution.
At this time, the control circuit 21 controls the pitch of 9 lines (9 ×
The light receiving line (c + a) arranged apart by Dy) is selected (S1 in FIG. 5).

Further, as shown in FIG. 8D, when the reading range of the original 12 is read at an interval of 3 lines, the control circuit 21 gives "pitch 4" as the designated value of the reading resolution.
Is entered. At this time, the control circuit 21 controls the light receiving lines (b) which are arranged at a pitch of 8 lines (8 × Dy) apart from each other.
+ C) is selected (S1 in FIG. 5). Further, as shown in FIG. 8E, when the reading range of the original 12 is read at 7-line intervals, “pitch 8” is input to the control circuit 21 as the designated value of the reading resolution. At this time, the control circuit 21 selects the light receiving lines (b + c) arranged at a pitch of 8 lines (8 × Dy) apart (S1 in FIG. 5).

Further, as shown in FIG. 8 (f), when the reading range of the original 12 is read at an interval of 8 lines, the control circuit 21 gives "pitch 9" as the designated value of the reading resolution.
Is entered. At this time, the control circuit 21 determines that the light receiving lines (c) are arranged at a pitch of 9 lines (9 × Dy).
+ A) is selected (S1 in FIG. 5).

As described above, the control circuit 21 determines in step S1 of FIG.
"Pitch 1-4,8,9" considering multiples of ~ 4,8,9 "
Two light receiving lines (any one of a + b, b + c, and c + a) spaced apart at a pitch corresponding to a multiple of are selected for actual image reading. When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 1", the combination of two light receiving lines may be any of three combinations (a + b, b + c, c + a). However, as will be described later in detail, when the designated value of the reading resolution is “pitch 1”, in order to surely reduce the scanning time (Ta) of the document 12, the originals 12 are arranged close to each other with a pitch of one line. It is preferable to select the light receiving line (a + b).

Next, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S of FIG.
Proceed to the process of 2. And the two selected light receiving lines
2 of the manuscript 12 using (any one of a + b, b + c, and c + a)
The amount (the number of lines) to move the scan block 19 in the y direction when reading a three-dimensional image is set. Even if the combination of the two selected light receiving lines is the same (for example, when the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 2, 4, 8"), the setting of the movement amount (the number of lines) of the scan block 19 is changed. Thus, it is possible to cope with the difference in the reading resolution of the original 12.

This movement amount (number of lines) is set by setting the two light receiving lines (a + b, b + c, c) selected in step S1.
+ A) or two imaging lines (a + b, b)
It is performed as follows using the interval Ds of either + c or c + a. The distance Ds corresponds to "distance D2" in the claims. Note that, when the light receiving line (a + b) is selected, the distance Ds between the two imaging lines (any one of a + b, b + c, and c + a) is, as shown in FIG. 3B, the distance Ds between the imaging lines (a + b). Corresponds to (= 0). In addition, the light receiving line (b +
When c) is selected, the distance Ds between the imaging lines (b + c)
This corresponds to (= Db = 7 × Da). Also, the light receiving line (c
+ A) is selected, the interval D between the imaging lines (c + a)
This corresponds to s (= Db + Da = 8 × Da).

The control circuit 21 controls the above-mentioned interval Ds (= 0, 7).
X Da or 8 × Da) is divided by the length Da of the imaging lines a, b, c, and M is a coefficient (M = Ds / Da,
M is an integer of 0 or more), and the number obtained by adding 1 to this coefficient M (M +
The movement amount (number of lines) of the scan block 19 is set according to the divisor of 1) (S2 in FIG. 5). The coefficient M is 2
Represents the number of lines between two imaging lines, the number (M + 1) is 2
It represents the number of pitches between two imaging lines.

This means that the two light receiving lines (a + b, b + c, selected in step S1) are selected irrespective of whether the designated value of the reading resolution of the original 12 is "pitch 1 to 4, 8, 9".
This is for uniformly reading the reading range of the original 12 by using either (c + a). Here, the setting of the movement amount (the number of lines) of the scan block 19 (S2 in FIG. 5) will be specifically described by taking normal scanning as an example. The normal scanning is a scanning method in which each line in the reading range of the original 12 is read once by one or the other of the two selected light receiving lines (any one of a + b, b + c, and c + a).

When the light receiving line (a + b) is selected in step S1 based on the designated value "pitch 1" of the reading resolution, the interval Ds = 0 between the imaging lines (a + b) and the number of lines M
= 0 and the number of pitches (M + 1) = 1. Also, the number of pitches
The divisor of (M + 1) is only "1". At this time, the control circuit 21 multiplies “1” by 2 and determines the length Da.
An amount (= 2 × Da) obtained by multiplying by is determined as the movement amount of the scan block 19 (S2 in FIG. 5, FIG. 9A).

That is, as shown in FIG.
When the reading range of 1 is uniformly read once at the highest resolution (4000 dpi), the control circuit 21 sets the movement amount of the scan block 19 to “2 × Da” based on the designated value “pitch 1” of the reading resolution. Set (S in Fig. 5
2, FIG. 9 (a)).

When the light receiving line (b + c) is selected in step S1 based on the designated value of the reading resolution "any one of pitches 2, 4, and 8", the image pickup line (b + c) shown in FIG. 3B is selected. Is Ds = 7 × Da, the number of lines M = 7, and the number of pitches (M + 1) = 8. The divisor of the pitch number (M + 1) is "1, 2, 4, 8". At this time, the control circuit 21
When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 8", the maximum divisor "8" of the number of pitches (M + 1) is multiplied by 2 and the amount obtained by multiplying the length Da (= 16 × Da). Is defined as the movement amount of the scan block 19 (S in FIG.
2, FIG. 9 (b)).

That is, as shown in FIG.
In the case where the reading range of 1 is uniformly read once every 7 lines, the control circuit 21 sets the movement amount of the scan block 19 to “16 × Da” based on the designated value “pitch 8” of the reading resolution ( S2 of FIG. 5 and FIG. 9B).
Further, if the designated value of the reading resolution is “pitch 4”, the control circuit 21 divisors the pitch number (M + 1) by “1, 2,
Amount obtained by multiplying “4”, which is a divisor other than the maximum divisor “8”, by the length Da (= 4 × D)
a) and a quantity (= 12 × Da) obtained by multiplying the sum of the maximum divisor “8” and the divisor “4” by the length Da,
Each is determined as the movement amount of the scan block 19 (S2 in FIG. 5, FIG. 10A).

That is, as shown in FIG.
In the case of reading the reading range of 1 times evenly at intervals of 3 lines, the control circuit 21 sets the movement amount of the scan block 19 to “4 × Da” or “12 ×” based on the designated value “pitch 4” of the reading resolution. Da ”(S2 in FIG. 5, FIG. 10A). Further, the control circuit 21 determines the number of pitches (M
Amount obtained by multiplying the length "Da" to the divisor "2" other than the maximum divisor "8" among the divisors "1,2,4,8" of (+1) (= 2 × Da). , And an amount obtained by multiplying the sum of the maximum divisor “8” and the divisor “2” by the length Da (=
10 × Da) is determined as the moving amount of the scan block 19 (S2 in FIG. 5, FIG. 10B).

That is, as shown in FIG.
When the reading range of 1 is uniformly read once at a line interval (2000 dpi), the control circuit 21 sets the movement amount of the scan block 19 to “2 × Da” or based on the designated value “pitch 2” of the reading resolution. It is set to “10 × Da” (S2 of FIG. 5, FIG. 10 (b)). Furthermore, when the light receiving line (c + a) is selected in step S1 based on the designated value of the reading resolution “either pitch 3 or 9”, the interval Ds = 8 between the imaging lines (c + a) shown in FIG. 3B.
× Da, the number of lines M = 8, and the number of pitches (M + 1) = 9. The divisor of the pitch number (M + 1) is "1,3,9".

At this time, the control circuit 21 determines the number of pitches (M + 1) if the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 9".
The maximum divisor of "9" is multiplied by 2, and the length D
An amount (= 18 × Da) obtained by multiplying a is determined as the moving amount of the scan block 19 (S2 of FIG. 5, FIG. 11).
(a)). That is, as shown in FIG. 8F, when the reading range of the original 12 is uniformly read once every eight lines, the control circuit 21 determines the scan block based on the designated value “pitch 9” of the reading resolution. The movement amount of 19 is "1
8 × Da ”(S2 in FIG. 5, FIG. 11A).

Further, if the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 3", the control circuit 21 selects a maximum divisor "9" out of the divisor "1,3,9" of the pitch number (M + 1). A quantity (= 3 ×) obtained by multiplying the divisor “3” by the length Da.
Da) and the amount obtained by multiplying the sum of the maximum divisor “9” and the divisor “3” by the length Da (= 12 × Da)
Are determined as the movement amount of the scan block 19 (S2 in FIG. 5, FIG. 11B).

That is, as shown in FIG.
In the case where the reading range of 1 is uniformly read once every two lines, the control circuit 21 sets the movement amount of the scan block 19 to “3 × Da” or “12 ×” based on the designated value “pitch 3” of the reading resolution. Da ”(S2 of FIG. 5, FIG. 11B). As described above, two light receiving lines (any one of a + b, b + c, c + a) are selected in consideration of the multiple of the designated value "pitch 1 to 4, 8, 9" of the reading resolution (S1 in FIG. 5), In addition, the scan block 19 according to the divisor of the pitch number (M + 1) of the imaging lines (any one of a + b, b + c, and c + a) corresponding to the two selected light receiving lines.
Is set (S2 in FIG. 5), the designated value of the reading resolution of the original 12 is set to "Pitch 1 to Pitch 1".
It is possible to read the reading range uniformly regardless of "4, 8 or 9".

Further, the image pickup lines a and bc can be read while the image pickup lines a and bc are always matched with each line of the reading range of the original 12. In other words, the image pickup lines a and bc are not positioned over the two lines of the reading range of the original 12. Then, two light receiving lines based on the specified value of the reading resolution "any one of the pitches 1 to 4, 8 and 9"
Selection of (any one of a + b, b + c, c + a) (S1, FIG.
8) and the setting of the movement amount of the scan block 19 (S2 of FIG. 5, see FIGS. 9 to 11) are completed, the control circuit 21 proceeds to the process of step S3 of FIG. Perform a read operation.

At this point, the order and time for turning on the LEDs of the illumination light source 14 have already been determined. After that, the lighting time of the red, green, and blue LEDs of the illumination light source 14 is changed to "exposure time TL".
R, TLG, TLB ". In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the exposure times TLR, TLG, TLB are shorter than the transfer time TCCD of the image sensor 17. Also, "Red LED lights
The reading control is performed in the order of (R exposure) → lighting of green LED (G exposure) → lighting of blue LED (B exposure).
Further, the above-mentioned delay time TD at the time of controlling the scan block 19 is “the exposure time TL of the blue LED of the final color.
B + transfer time TCCD "and shorter than" exposure time TLB + transfer time TCCD twice "(TLB + TC
CD <TD <TLB + 2 × TCCD).

<< Pitch 1 >> First, on the basis of the designated value "pitch 1" of the reading resolution, the light receiving line is detected in step S1.
When (a + b) is selected and the movement amount of the scan block 19 is set to “2 × Da” in step S2 (see FIG. 8).
(a) and FIG. 9 (a)) as an example, the image reading operation after step S3 in FIG. 5 will be described.

The control circuit 21, in step S3,
The scan block 19 is moved to a predetermined reading start position and stopped. At this time, the imaging line a corresponding to the light receiving line a of the image sensor 17 is positioned on the leading line (L1) of the reading range of the document 12 (state of FIG. 12A). Also, the second line of the reading range
The image pickup line b corresponding to the light receiving line b is positioned at (L2), and the light receiving line c is located at the tenth line (L10).
The imaging line c corresponding to is positioned.

Next, the control circuit 21 controls the timing generation circuit 25 in step S4, and the step S1
Transfer (read-out) of unnecessary charges (invalid data) accumulated in each light receiving portion 41 of the two light receiving lines a and b selected in
To start at the same time. Further, the LED driver circuit 24 is controlled to turn on the red LED. The time at this time is t
It is set to 0 (FIG. 7).

The illumination light from the red LED passes through the first line (L1) of the reading range of the original 12, that is, the image pickup line a, and enters the light receiving line a of the image sensor 17. Further, the light passes through the second line (L2), that is, the imaging line b, and enters the light receiving line b. In this way, the red light receiving lines a and b are exposed. Next, when the “red exposure time TLR” has elapsed from the time t0 (time t1), the control circuit 21 controls the LED driver circuit 24 to turn off the red LED and end the R exposure. As a result, the electric charges (R image data) due to the R exposure are accumulated in the respective light receiving portions 41 of the two light receiving lines a and b. At this time, the read-out gate 42 of the image sensor 17 and the CCD analog shift register 43 continue to read and discard invalid data for two lines.

Then, during the waiting period until the reading and discarding of the invalid data is completed (the "transfer time TCCD" elapses from the time t0), the control circuit 21 causes the control circuit 21 to perform the flowchart shown in FIG. The motor driver circuit 28 is controlled in accordance with the above, and a drive pulse for the motor 18 is output (time t
2).

The reason why the drive pulse is output at this timing is that the scan block 19 actually starts to move with a delay time TD after the motor driver circuit 28 outputs the drive pulse to the motor 18. At time t2,
It is the time when “2 × transfer time TCCD + blue exposure time TLB−delay time TD” has elapsed from time t0. Also,
The number of drive pulses that the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 is the number required to move the scan block 19 by a predetermined line in the y direction. The predetermined line here corresponds to the movement amount set in step S2 in FIG. 5, that is, two lines (2 × Da in FIG. 9A), as shown in step S12 in FIG.

Then, the control circuit 21 finishes reading and discarding invalid data from the image sensor 17 (time t0.
"The transfer time TCCD" has elapsed from step S3), the process proceeds to step S5 of FIG. 5 (time t3), and the timing generation circuit 25
Are controlled to simultaneously start the transfer (reading) of the R image data accumulated in the light receiving lines a and b. Also, LE
The D driver circuit 24 is controlled to turn on the green LED.

The illumination light from the green LED passes through the first line (L1) of the reading range of the original 12, that is, the image pickup line a, and enters the light receiving line a. Also, the second line
(L2) That is, the light passes through the imaging line b and enters the light receiving line b. In this way, the green light receiving line a,
The exposure of b is performed. Next, when only “green exposure time TLG” has elapsed from time t3 (time t4), the control circuit 2
1 controls the LED driver circuit 24 to turn off the green LED to end the G exposure. As a result, the electric charges (G image data) due to the G exposure are accumulated in each of the light receiving portions 41 of the two light receiving lines a and b. At this time,
In the transfer unit (42, 43) of the image sensor 17, the reading of the R image data for two lines is still continued.

Incidentally, two lines of R image data (analog image signals) read in sequence from the image sensor 17 are passed through the preamplifier 26 and the A / D converter 27, respectively, and then digital R image data. Is output to the control circuit 21. Then, the control circuit 21
The digital R image data for two lines received from the A / D converter 27 is stored in the RAM 23.

When the reading of the R image data for two lines is completed (the "transfer time TCCD" has elapsed from time t3), the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S6 (time t5), and the timing generation circuit 25. Are controlled to start the transfer (reading) of the G image data accumulated in the light receiving lines a and b at the same time. Further, the LED driver circuit 24 is controlled to turn on the blue LED.

The illumination light from the blue LED passes through the first line (L1) of the reading range of the original 12, that is, the image pickup line a, and enters the light receiving line a. Also, the second line
(L2) That is, the light passes through the imaging line b and enters the light receiving line b. In this way, the blue light-receiving line a,
The exposure of b is performed. Next, when only the “blue exposure time TLB” has elapsed from time t5 (time t6), the control circuit 2
1 controls the LED driver circuit 24 to turn off the blue LED to end the B exposure. As a result, the electric charges (B image data) due to the B exposure are accumulated in the respective light receiving portions 41 of the two light receiving lines a and b.

Further, this time point (time t6) is also a time point when "delay time TD" has elapsed since the motor driver circuit 28 outputs the drive pulse to the motor 18 (time t2). Therefore, the scan block 19 actually starts moving in the y direction at the same time as the end of the B exposure.

At this time, the scan block 19 operates as shown in FIG.
2 (a), the imaging lines a, b, and c are the first, second, and tenth lines (L1, L2, L1) of the reading range of the original 12.
0), the insertion opening 13 (see FIG.
2 lines in the y direction toward the (a) side (2 × in FIG. 9A)
Start the movement of (Da) (L1, L2, L10 → L3, L
4, L12).

Further, at this time t6 (end of B exposure and start of 2-line movement of the scan block 19), the transfer section (42, 43) of the image sensor 17 sets 2
The G image data for the line is still being read. Similar to the R image data described above, the image sensor 17
The G image data (analog image signal) for two lines sequentially read from is also output to the control circuit 21 as digital G image data after passing through the preamplifier 26 and the A / D converter 27, respectively. Then, the control circuit 21
Stores in the RAM 23 the digital G image data for two lines received from the A / D converter 27.

When the reading of the G image data for two lines is completed (“transfer time TCCD” has elapsed from time t5), the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S7 (time t7), and the timing generation circuit 25. Are controlled to simultaneously start (transfer) the B image data accumulated in the light receiving lines a and b. At this time, the light receiving portions 41 of the light receiving lines a and b of the image sensor 17 are in the non-exposed state. The scan block 19 is in the middle of moving by two lines (L1, L2, L10 → L3, L4, L12).

Similar to the R image data and the G image data described above, the B image data (analog image signal) for two lines sequentially read out from the image sensor 17 also includes the preamplifier 26 and the A / D converter 27, respectively. Then, it is output to the control circuit 21 as digital B image data.
Then, the control circuit 21 stores the digital B image data for 2 lines received from the A / D converter 27 in the RAM 2.
Store in 3.

Next, when the reading of the B image data for two lines is completed (the "transfer time TCCD" has elapsed from the time t7), the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S8. At this point, the first and second lines of the reading range of the original 12
This means that the (L1, L2) RGB reading operation and the data transfer operation have been completed. As a result, in the RAM 23, two lines of digital R image data and digital G data relating to the first and second lines (L1, L2) of the reading range of the original 12 are stored.
The image data and the digital B image data (collectively referred to as “RGB image data”) are stored.

Next, in step S8, the control circuit 21 determines a predetermined number of lines ("m") in the reading range of the original 12.
However, it is determined whether or not the processes of steps S4 to S7 are completed. Then, when an unprocessed line remains in the reading range of the document 12 (step S
8 is N), the control circuit 21 executes the process of step S9. That is, from the time t6 (end of B exposure and start of 2-line movement of the scan block 19), a time required for 2-line movement (hereinafter referred to as "2-line movement time TS").
Wait until "B") elapses.

The control circuit 21 returns to the process of step S4 (time t8) when "2 line moving time TSB" has elapsed from time t6 (Y in S9). At this time, the movement of the scan block 19 by two lines is completed, and the scan block 19 indicates that the imaging lines a, b, and c are the third, fourth, and twelfth reading ranges of the original 12 as shown in FIG. Line (L
(3, L4, L12).

After that, the above-mentioned steps S4 to S7 are repeatedly executed (time t8 to t9 in FIG. 7), and the R of the third and fourth lines (L3, L4) of the reading range of the original 12 is read.
GB read and data transfer operations are performed. After the B exposure is completed, the scan block 19 is moved by two lines (L3, L4, L12 → L5, L6, L14), and the imaging lines a, b, and c are the fifth and sixth reading ranges of the original 12. , First
The state (FIG. 12 (c)) is positioned on the four lines (L5, L6, L14).

This reading cycle (from time t8 in FIG. 7)
At t9), the RGB image data for two lines related to the third and fourth lines (L3, L4) of the reading range of the original 12 is stored in the RAM 23. Further, in this read cycle (time t8 to t9 in FIG. 7), the two lines related to the first and second lines (L1, L2) stored in the RAM 23 in the previous read cycle (time t0 to t8 in FIG. 7). Minute RGB image data is output to the host computer 30 (PC) side through the interface 29 by the parallel processing of the control circuit 21.

As the interface 29, IEEE is used.
By using a high-speed I / F such as E1394, one cycle (steps S4 to S9 in FIG. 5) (time t8 to t in FIG. 7)
9) Required time T3 (= TCCD + TCCD + TLB +
The output of the above-mentioned two lines of RGB image data to the host computer 30 side can be completed within (TSB).

Generally, the nth reading range of the original 12 is read.
After the RGB reading and the data transfer operation of the line and the (n + 1) th line are performed, the RGB of the (n + 2) th line and the (n + 3) th line are moved after the scan block 19 is moved by two lines.
Read and data transfer operations are performed. RAM
The RGB image data for 2 lines related to the nth line and the n + 1th line stored in 23 are controlled within the time T3 of one cycle in the next reading cycle (when reading the n + 2th line and the n + 3th line). Circuit 21
Is output to the host computer 30 side by parallel processing.

As described above, the image input device 1 of this embodiment
At 0, a two-dimensional image (one screen) of the original 12 using three colors of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) is obtained by repeatedly executing the processing of steps S4 to S9 in units of two lines. Reading and data transfer are sequentially performed.

When the processing of steps S4 to S7 (FIG. 5) is completed for a predetermined number of lines m in the reading range of the original 12 (Y in step S8), the control circuit 21
At this stage, R for 2 lines stored in the RAM 23
The GB image data is output to the host computer 30 side, and the process ends. As a result, the host computer 3
On the 0 side, the reading range of the original 12 is set to the highest resolution (4
This means that the RGB image data read uniformly once at 000 dpi) was obtained.

Here, the time required to scan the reading range (total number of lines m) of the original 12 (entire scanning time Ta of one screen) is one cycle (S4 to
Time required for S9 T3 (= TCCD + TCCD + TLB +
TSB) and the number of repetitions Ns are determined (Ta = T3 × Ns). The required time T3 of one cycle (S4 to S9) is, for example, if the number n of the light receiving units 41 of one light receiving line a (or b) is 4000 and the clock cycle is 400 ns (assuming a 4000 dpi class),
At the shortest, T3 = TCCD × 4 = 4000 pieces × 400 ns
× 4 = 6.4 ms. This is the same as the conventional minimum required time T1 (FIG. 19B). By the way, the time (TSB) for moving two lines of the scan block 19 is 1
It is almost the same as the line moving time (Tm).

However, in the image input device 10 of the present embodiment, the reading cycle (S4 to S9) of the two-dimensional image (one screen) of the original 12 is executed in units of two lines, that is,
Two light receiving lines a and b of the image sensor 17 (FIG. 2)
Is used to simultaneously acquire RGB image data for two lines, and the scan block 19 is further moved by two lines (FIG. 12).

Therefore, the number of repetitions Ns when scanning the reading range (total number of lines m) of the original 12 is about m / 2 times. That is, the number Ns of repetitions of the reading cycle (S4 to S9) in the image input device 10
Is about half the number of repetitions (= m) of the related art.

Therefore, the image input device 1 according to the present embodiment.
At 0, the time required to scan the reading range (total number of lines m) of the original 12 (entire scan time of one screen Ta = T3 × Ns = T3 × m / 2) is the same as the conventional scan time (= T1 × It can be reduced to about half compared with m). For example, 35mm film (24mm × 36m
When scanning m) in the 4000 dpi class, the total number of lines m in the reading range (one screen) of the original 12 is 600.
The number of scanning lines Ta is zero, and the total scanning time Ta of the reading range (one screen) in the image input device 10 of the present embodiment is
6.4 ms × 6000/2 = 19.2 seconds.

On the other hand, the conventional scan time (= T
1 × m) is 38.4 seconds. The total scan time when the conventional color 3-line sensor (FIG. 20) is used is about 38 seconds. It can be seen that the image input device 10 according to the present embodiment can significantly reduce the entire scan time Ta of one screen (about 19 seconds) as compared with these conventional devices.

<< Pitch 8 >> Next, the light receiving line (b + c) is selected in step S1 of FIG. 5 based on the designated value "pitch 8" of the reading resolution, and the movement amount of the scan block 19 is set to "16" in step S2. For example, in the case where “× Da” is set (see FIGS. 8E and 9B), step S in FIG.
The image reading operation after 3 will be described.

In this case, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S3.
, The first line of the reading range of the original 12 (L1)
The imaging line b is positioned at (the state of FIG. 13A).
At this time, the imaging line c is positioned at the ninth line (L9), and the imaging line a is positioned at the 0th line (L0) outside the reading range. Then, next, the control circuit 21
Executes the processing of steps S4 to S7 in FIG. That is, using the two light receiving lines b and c, the RGB reading operation and the data transfer operation of the first and ninth lines (L1 and L9) of the reading range of the original 12 are performed. As a result, RAM2
In 3 is stored RGB image data for two lines related to the first and ninth lines (L1, L9).

However, in step S4, the number of drive pulses that the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 is, as shown in step S12 of FIG. 6, the movement amount set in step S2 of FIG. Line
(16 × Da in FIG. 9B). Therefore, at the same time when the B exposure is completed, the scan block 19
From the state shown in FIG. 13A, movement of 16 lines in the y direction is started. When the movement of the 16th line is completed, the scan block 19 determines that the imaging lines a, b, and c are the 16th, 17th, and 25th lines (L16, L1), as shown in FIG.
7, L25).

Next, the above-described processing of steps S4 to S7 is performed using the two light receiving lines b and c, and the RGB images of two lines related to the 17th and 25th lines (L17, L25) of the reading range. The data is stored in the RAM 23.
Further, in the read cycles of the 17th and 25th lines, the RGB image data for 2 lines related to the 1st and 9th lines (L1, L9) stored in the RAM 23 in the previous read cycle is stored in the control circuit 21. By the parallel processing, the data is output to the host computer 30 side within the required time T3 of one cycle (see FIG. 7).

After the B exposure is completed, the scan block 19 is moved by 16 lines from the state of FIG. 13B, and the imaging lines a, b and c are changed to the 32nd, 33rd and 41st lines (L3).
(2, L33, L41). As described above, the image input device 10 according to the present embodiment uses the three colors of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) by repeatedly performing the processing of steps S4 to S9 in units of two lines. The reading of the two-dimensional image (one screen) of the original 12 and the data transfer are sequentially performed.

When the processing of steps S4 to S7 (FIG. 5) has been completed for the predetermined number of lines m in the reading range of the original 12 (Y in S8), the control circuit 21 is stored in the RAM 23 at this stage. The two lines of RGB image data are output to the host computer 30 side, and the process is terminated. As a result, on the host computer 30 side,
This means that the RGB image data in which the reading range of the original 12 is uniformly read once every 7 lines is obtained.

When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 8", the reading cycle of the two-dimensional image of the original 12 (S4
~ S9) is executed in units of two lines, that is, two lines of light-receiving lines b and c are used to simultaneously acquire RGB image data for two lines, and the scan block 19 is set to 1
Move 6 lines (Fig. 13). Therefore, the number of repetitions Ns (≈m / 16) of the reading cycle (S4 to S9) in the image input device 10 is the same as the conventional number of repetitions (= m /
8), which is about half, and the total scan time Ta (= T3 × Ns = T3 × m / 16) of one screen of the original 12 is also about half compared to the conventional scan time (= T1 × m / 8). It can be shortened.

<< Pitch 9 >> Next, the light receiving line (c + a) is selected in step S1 of FIG. 5 based on the designated value "pitch 9" of the reading resolution, and the movement amount of the scan block 19 is set to "18" in step S2. The image reading operation after step S3 in FIG. 5 will be described by taking the case where “× Da” is set (see FIGS. 8F and 11A) as an example.

In this case, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S3.
, The first line of the reading range of the original 12 (L1)
The imaging line a is positioned at (the state of FIG. 14A).
At this time, the imaging line b is positioned on the second line (L2), and the imaging line c is positioned on the tenth line (L10). Then, the control circuit 21 next executes the processes of steps S4 to S7 of FIG. That is, using the two light receiving lines a and c, the RGB reading operation and the data transfer operation of the first and tenth lines (L1 and L10) of the reading range are performed. As a result, the RAM 23 stores the first and tenth data.
Two lines of RGB image data related to the line (L1, L10) are stored.

However, in step S4, the number of drive pulses that the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 is the movement amount set in step S2 of FIG. 5, that is, 18 as shown in step S12 of FIG. Line
(18 × Da in FIG. 11A). Therefore, at the same time when the B exposure is completed, the scan block 19
From the state of FIG. 14A, the movement of 18 lines in the y direction is started. When the movement of the 18th line is completed, the scan block 19 determines that the imaging lines a, b, and c are the 19th, 20th, and 28th lines (L19, L2) as shown in FIG. 14B.
0, L28).

Next, the processing of steps S4 to S7 described above is performed using the two light receiving lines a and c, and the RGB images of two lines related to the 19th and 28th lines (L19, L28) of the reading range. The data is stored in the RAM 23.
Further, in the read cycle of the 19th and 28th lines, the RGB image data of 2 lines related to the 1st and 10th lines (L1, L10) stored in the RAM 23 by the previous read cycle is read by the control circuit 21. By the parallel processing, the data is output to the host computer 30 side within the required time T3 of one cycle (see FIG. 7).

Further, after the B exposure is completed, the scan block 19 is moved by 18 lines from the state of FIG. 14B, and the imaging lines a, b and c are the 37th, 38th and 46th lines (L3).
7, L38, L46). As described above, the image input device 10 according to the present embodiment uses the three colors of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) by repeatedly performing the processing of steps S4 to S9 in units of two lines. The reading of the two-dimensional image (one screen) of the original 12 and the data transfer are sequentially performed.

When the processing of steps S4 to S7 (FIG. 5) is completed for the predetermined number of lines m in the reading range of the original 12 (Y in S8), the control circuit 21 is stored in the RAM 23 at this stage. The two lines of RGB image data are output to the host computer 30 side, and the process is terminated. As a result, on the host computer 30 side,
This means that the RGB image data obtained by uniformly reading the reading range of the original 12 once every eight lines is obtained.

When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 9", the reading cycle of the two-dimensional image of the original 12 (S4
~ S9) is executed in units of two lines, that is, two lines of light-receiving lines a and c are used to simultaneously obtain RGB image data for two lines, and the scan block 19 is set to 1
Move 8 lines (Fig. 14). Therefore, the number of repetitions Ns (≈m / 18) of the reading cycle (S4 to S9) in the image input device 10 is the same as the conventional number of repetitions (= m /
9) is about half, and the total scan time Ta (= T3 × Ns = T3 × m / 18) of one screen of the original 12 is also about half of the conventional scan time (= T1 × m / 9). It can be shortened.

<< Pitch 2 >> Next, the light receiving line (b + c) is selected in step S1 of FIG. 5 based on the designated value "pitch 2" of the reading resolution, and the movement amount of the scan block 19 is set to "2" in step S2. × Da ”or“ 10 × D
The image reading operation after step S3 in FIG. 5 will be described by taking as an example the case where “a” is set (see FIGS. 8B and 10B).

In this case, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S3.
In, the imaging line b is positioned on the first line (L1) of the reading range (state of FIG. 15A). At this time,
The imaging line c is positioned on the ninth line (L9), and the imaging line a is positioned on the 0th line (L0) outside the reading range. Then, the control circuit 21 next executes the processes of steps S4 to S7 of FIG. That is, the two light receiving lines b and c are used to perform the RGB reading operation and the data transfer operation for the first and ninth lines (L1 and L9) of the reading range. As a result, the RAM 23 stores the RGB image data for two lines related to the first and ninth lines (L1, L9).

However, in step S4, the number of drive pulses output from the motor driver circuit 28 to the motor 18 is the movement amount set in step S2 of FIG. 5, as shown in steps S13 to S15 of FIG. That is, 2
The number corresponds to the line or 10 lines (2 × Da or 10 × Da in FIG. 10B). Here, when the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 2", the reading range of the document 12 is divided into 16-line divided areas (L1 to L16, L17 to L32, ...) As shown in FIG. , Are sequentially read for each divided area (L1 to L16, ...).

Therefore, one divided area (for example, L1
(-L16) until the reading is completed (N in step S13 in FIG. 6), in step S4 in FIG. 5, among the movement amounts set in step S2 from the motor driver circuit 28 to the motor 18. The smaller one, ie 2
A number of drive pulses corresponding to the lines are output (see FIG. 6).
Step S14).

Then, one divided area (for example, L1 to
When the reading in L16) is completed (Y in step S13 of FIG. 6), the next divided area (for example, L17 to L3).
To move to (2), in step S4 of FIG. 5, the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 the drive pulse having the larger one of the movement amounts set in step S2, that is, the number corresponding to 10 lines. (Step S15 in FIG. 6).

Specifically, B in the state of FIG.
Simultaneously with the end of the exposure, the scan block 19 starts a small step movement of two lines in the y direction. And 2
When the line movement is completed, the scan block 19 is in a state where the imaging lines a, b and c are positioned at the second, third and eleventh lines (L2, L3, L11) as shown in FIG. 15B. Becomes

Next, the processing of steps S4 to S7 described above is performed using the two light receiving lines b and c, and the RGB images of two lines related to the third and eleventh lines (L3, L11) of the reading range. The data is stored in the RAM 23. Furthermore, in the read cycle of the 3rd and 11th lines,
RG for two lines related to the first and ninth lines (L1, L9) stored in the RAM 23 by the previous reading cycle
The B image data is output to the host computer 30 side by the parallel processing of the control circuit 21 within the required time T3 of one cycle (see FIG. 7).

After that, the small step movement of two lines of the scan block 19 is repeatedly performed, and the imaging line a,
b, c are positioned on the 4th, 5th and 13th lines (L4, L5, L13) (FIG. 15 (c)), and then on the 6th, 7th and 15th lines (L6, L7, L15). ) Is positioned (FIG. 15D). Then, in each of these states (FIGS. 15C and 15D), the above-described step S4 is performed.
The process from S7 to S5 is repeated to read the fifth and first reading ranges.
Two lines of RGB image data related to the three lines (L5, L13) and two lines of RGB image data related to the seventh and fifteenth lines (L7, L15) are stored in the RAM 23. Further, these RGB image data are sent to the control circuit 2
It is output to the host computer 30 side by the parallel processing of 1.

In this way, the small step movement of two lines of the scan block 19 is repeated three times (FIG. 15).
By (a) → (b) → (c) → (d)), when reading in one divided area (for example, L1 to L16) is completed,
The scan block 19 is B in the state of FIG.
Simultaneously with the end of the exposure, a large step movement for 10 lines is started in the y direction. When the movement of 10 lines is completed, the scan block 19 determines that the imaging lines a, b, and c are the 16th, 17th, and 25th lines, as shown in FIG.
It is in the state of being positioned at (L16, L17, L25).

Next, the processing of steps S4 to S7 described above is repeated using the two light receiving lines b and c, and the seventeenth and twenty-fifth lines in the next divided area (L17 to L32).
Two lines of RGB image data relating to (L17, L25) are stored in the RAM 23. The RGB image data is also output to the host computer 30 side by the parallel processing of the control circuit 21.

As described above, the image input device 1 of this embodiment
In step 0, the processes of steps S4 to S9 are repeatedly executed in units of two lines, so that the divided areas (L1 to L16, L1 to L16, 3) of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) are divided. L
17-L32, ...) And data transfer are sequentially performed. Then, when the processing of steps S4 to S7 (FIG. 5) is completed for the predetermined number of lines m in the reading range of the original 12 (Y in S8), the control circuit 21 stores the data in the RAM 23 at this stage. The RGB image data for the lines is output to the host computer 30 side, and the processing is ended. As a result, on the host computer 30 side, RGB image data obtained by uniformly reading the reading range of the original 12 once at a line interval is obtained.

When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 2", the reading cycle of the two-dimensional image of the original 12 (S4
~ S9) is executed in units of two lines, that is, two lines of light-receiving lines b and c are used to simultaneously obtain RGB image data of two lines, and the scan block 19 is set to two.
The line is moved or 10 lines are moved (FIG. 15). Therefore, the number of repetitions Ns (≈m / 4) of the reading cycle (S4 to S9) in the image input device 10 is about half of the number of repetitions (= m / 2) of the related art, which is 1 of the original document 12.
Scan time Ta of the entire screen Ta (= T3 × Ns = T3 ×
m / 4) can also be reduced to about half as compared with the conventional scan time (= T1 × m / 2).

<< Pitch 3 >> Next, the light receiving line (a + b) is selected in step S1 of FIG. 5 based on the designated value "pitch 3" of the reading resolution, and the movement amount of the scan block 19 is set to "3" in step S2. × Da ”or“ 12 × D
The image reading operation after step S3 in FIG. 5 will be described by taking as an example the case where “a” is set (see FIGS. 8C and 11B).

In this case, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S3.
In, the imaging line a is positioned at the leading line (L1) of the reading range (state of FIG. 16A). At this time,
The imaging line c is positioned on the tenth line (L10), and the imaging line b is positioned on the second line (L2). Then, next, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S4 of FIG.
~ The process of S7 is executed. That is, using the two light receiving lines a and c, the first and tenth lines (L
1, L10) RGB reading operation and data transfer operation are performed. As a result, the RAM 23 has the first and tenth lines.
Two lines of RGB image data relating to (L1, L10) are stored.

However, in step S4, the number of drive pulses output by the motor driver circuit 28 to the motor 18 is the movement amount set in step S2 of FIG. 5, as shown in steps S13 to S15 of FIG. That is, 3
The number corresponds to the line or 12 lines (3 × Da or 12 × Da in FIG. 11B). Here, when the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 3", the reading range of the original 12 is divided into 18-line divided areas (L1 to L18, L19 to L36, ...) As shown in FIG. , Are sequentially read for each divided area (L1 to L18, ...).

Therefore, one divided area (for example, L1
Up to the end of reading (step S13 in FIG. 6 is N), the motor driver circuit 28 moves the motor 18 to the motor 18 in step S4 of FIG. The smaller one, ie 3
A number of drive pulses corresponding to the lines are output (see FIG. 6).
Step S14).

One divided area (for example, L1 to L1
When the reading in L18) is completed (Y in step S13 of FIG. 6), the next divided area (for example, L19 to L3)
6), in step S4 of FIG. 5, the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 the larger of the movement amounts set in step S2, that is, the number of drive pulses corresponding to 12 lines. (Step S15 in FIG. 6).

Specifically, B in the state of FIG.
Simultaneously with the end of the exposure, the scan block 19 starts the small step movement for three lines in the y direction. And 3
When the line movement is completed, the scan block 19 is in a state where the imaging lines a, b, and c are positioned at the fourth, fifth, and thirteenth lines (L4, L5, L13), as shown in FIG. Becomes

Next, the processes of steps S4 to S7 described above are repeated by using the two light receiving lines a and c, and the RGB images of two lines related to the fourth and thirteenth lines (L4, L13) of the reading range are obtained. The data is stored in the RAM 23.
Further, in the read cycles of the fourth and thirteenth lines, the RGB image data of two lines related to the first and tenth lines (L1, L10) stored in the RAM 23 in the previous read cycle are stored in the control circuit 21. By the parallel processing, the data is output to the host computer 30 side within the required time T3 of one cycle (see FIG. 7).

After that, the small steps of three lines of the scan block 19 are repeatedly performed, and the imaging line a,
The b and c are positioned on the 7th, 8th and 16th lines (L7, L8, L16) (FIG. 16C). Then, in this state (FIG. 16C), step S4 described above is performed.
~ The processing of S7 is repeated, and the seventh and first reading ranges
The RGB image data for 2 lines related to 6 lines (L7, L16) is stored in the RAM 23. Also, this RG
The B image data is output to the host computer 30 side by the parallel processing of the control circuit 21.

In this way, the small step movement of the scan block 19 for three lines is repeated twice (FIG. 16).
(a) → (b) → (c)), when the reading within one divided area (for example, L1 to L18) is completed, the scan block 19 finishes the B exposure in the state of FIG. 16 (c). At the same time, a large step movement for 12 lines is started in the y direction. When the movement of the 12th line is completed, the scan block 19 determines that the imaging lines a, b, and c are the 19th, 20th, and 28th lines (L19, L, as shown in FIG. 16D).
20, L28).

Next, the processing of steps S4 to S7 described above is repeated using the two light receiving lines a and c, and the 19th and 28th lines in the next divided area (L19 to L36).
Two lines of RGB image data relating to (L19, L28) are stored in the RAM 23. The RGB image data is also output to the host computer 30 side by the parallel processing of the control circuit 21.

As described above, the image input apparatus 1 of this embodiment
In step 0, the processing of steps S4 to S9 is repeatedly executed in units of two lines to divide the original 12 into the divided areas (L1 to L18, L1 to L18, L
19 to L36, ...) And data transfer are sequentially performed. Then, when the processing of steps S4 to S7 (FIG. 5) is completed for the predetermined number of lines m in the reading range of the original 12 (Y in S8), the control circuit 21 stores the data in the RAM 23 at this stage. The RGB image data for the lines is output to the host computer 30 side, and the processing is ended. As a result, on the host computer 30 side, RGB image data obtained by uniformly reading the reading range of the original 12 once every two lines is obtained.

When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 3", the reading cycle of the two-dimensional image of the original 12 (S4
~ S9) is executed in units of two lines, that is, two lines of light-receiving lines b and c are used to simultaneously acquire RGB image data for two lines, and the scan block 19 is set to three.
The line is moved or 12 lines are moved (FIG. 16). Therefore, the number of repetitions Ns (≈m / 6) of the reading cycle (S4 to S9) in the image input device 10 is about half of the number of repetitions (= m / 3) of the related art, which is 1 of the original document 12.
Scan time Ta of the entire screen Ta (= T3 × Ns = T3 ×
m / 6) can also be shortened to about half of the conventional scan time (= T1 × m / 3).

<< Pitch 4 >> Finally, the light receiving line (b + c) is selected in step S1 of FIG. 5 based on the designated value "pitch 4" of the reading resolution, and the movement amount of the scan block 19 is set to "4" in step S2. × Da ”or“ 12 × D
The image reading operation after step S3 in FIG. 5 will be described by taking as an example the case where “a” is set (see FIGS. 8D and 10A).

In this case, the control circuit 21 proceeds to step S3.
In, the imaging line b is positioned on the first line (L1) of the reading range (state of FIG. 17A). At this time,
The imaging line c is positioned on the ninth line (L9), and the imaging line a is positioned on the 0th line (L0) outside the reading range. Then, the control circuit 21 next executes the processes of steps S4 to S7 of FIG. That is, the two light receiving lines b and c are used to perform the RGB reading operation and the data transfer operation for the first and ninth lines (L1 and L9) of the reading range. As a result, the RAM 23 stores the RGB image data for two lines related to the first and ninth lines (L1, L9) of the reading range of the original 12.

However, in step S4, the number of drive pulses that the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 is the movement amount set in step S2 of FIG. 5 as shown in steps S13 to S15 of FIG. That is, 4
The number corresponds to the line or 12 lines (4 × Da or 12 × Da in FIG. 10A). Here, when the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 4", the reading range of the original 12 is divided into 16-line divided areas (L1 to L16, L17 to L32, ...) As shown in FIG. , Are sequentially read for each divided area (L1 to L16, ...).

Therefore, one divided area (for example, L1
(-L16) until the reading is completed (N in step S13 in FIG. 6), in step S4 in FIG. 5, among the movement amounts set in step S2 from the motor driver circuit 28 to the motor 18. The smaller one, ie 4
A number of drive pulses corresponding to the lines are output (see FIG. 6).
Step S14).

Then, one divided area (for example, L1 to
When the reading in L16) is completed (Y in step S13 of FIG. 6), the next divided area (for example, L17 to L3).
2), in step S4 of FIG. 5, the motor driver circuit 28 outputs to the motor 18 the larger of the movement amounts set in step S2, that is, the number of drive pulses corresponding to 12 lines. (Step S15 in FIG. 6).

Specifically, B in the state of FIG.
Simultaneously with the end of the exposure, the scan block 19 starts a small step movement of four lines in the y direction. And 4
When the line movement is completed, the scan block 19 is in a state where the imaging lines a, b, and c are positioned at the fourth, fifth, and thirteenth lines (L4, L5, L13) as shown in FIG. 17B. Becomes

Next, the above-described processing of steps S4 to S7 is repeated using the two light receiving lines b and c, and the RGB images of two lines related to the fifth and thirteenth lines (L5, L13) of the reading range. The data is stored in the RAM 23.
Further, in the read cycles of the fifth and thirteenth lines, the RGB image data of two lines related to the first and ninth lines (L1, L9) stored in the RAM 23 in the previous read cycle are stored in the control circuit 21. By parallel processing,
It is output to the host computer 30 side within the required time T3 of one cycle (see FIG. 7).

In this way, the small step movement of the scan block 19 for four lines is executed once (FIG. 17).
By (a) → (b), one divided area (for example, L1 to
When the reading within L16) is completed, the scan block 19 starts a large step movement for 12 lines in the y direction at the same time as the completion of the B exposure in the state of FIG. 17B. When the movement of the 12th line is completed, the scan block 19 determines that the imaging lines a, b, and c are the 16th, 17th, and 25th lines (L16, L1), as shown in FIG. 17C.
7, L25).

Next, the processing of steps S4 to S7 described above is repeated using the two light receiving lines b and c, and the seventeenth and twenty-fifth lines in the next divided area (L17 to L32).
Two lines of RGB image data relating to (L17, L25) are stored in the RAM 23. The RGB image data is also output to the host computer 30 side by the parallel processing of the control circuit 21.

As described above, the image input apparatus 1 of this embodiment
In step 0, the processes of steps S4 to S9 are repeatedly executed in units of two lines, so that the divided areas (L1 to L16, L1 to L16, 3) of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) are divided. L
17-L32, ...) And data transfer are sequentially performed. Then, when the processing of steps S4 to S7 (FIG. 5) is completed for the predetermined number of lines m in the reading range of the original 12 (Y in S8), the control circuit 21 stores the data in the RAM 23 at this stage. The RGB image data for the lines is output to the host computer 30 side, and the processing is ended. As a result, on the host computer 30 side, RGB image data obtained by uniformly reading the reading range of the original 12 once every three lines is obtained.

When the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch 4", the reading cycle of the two-dimensional image of the original 12 (S4
~ S9) is executed in units of two lines, that is, two lines of light-receiving lines b and c are used to simultaneously obtain RGB image data of two lines, and the scan block 19 is set to 4
The line is moved or 12 lines are moved (FIG. 17). Therefore, the number of times Ns (≈m / 8) of the reading cycle (S4 to S9) in the image input apparatus 10 is about half of the number of times of repetition (= m / 4) of the related art, which is 1 of the original document 12.
Scan time Ta of the entire screen Ta (= T3 × Ns = T3 ×
m / 8) can also be reduced to about half compared with the conventional scan time (= T1 × m / 4).

As described above, according to the image input apparatus 10 of this embodiment, an arbitrary reading resolution (pitch 1
In any one of (4), (8), (8), and (9), the entire scan time Ta of one screen of the document 12 can be significantly shortened without shortening the time T3 required for one cycle. In the above-described embodiment, an example of normal scanning in which each line in the reading range of the original 12 is read once for each color has been described, but the present invention can also be applied to multi-sample scanning (claim 4).

Multi-sample scanning means manuscript 1
This is a scanning method in which the noise of the image is reduced to 1 / (√n) by reading the same line in the two reading ranges n times for each color and averaging. For example, if the same line is read twice and averaged, the image noise will be 1 / (√
It can be reduced to 2). Image input device 1 described above
In order to realize the multi-sample scanning by using 0 (FIGS. 1 to 4), the setting of the movement amount (the number of lines) of the scan block 19 may be changed from the setting at the normal scanning described above as follows. . That is, when the designated value of the reading resolution is "pitch p" (p = 1 to 4,
8 and 9), the movement amount of the scan block 19 is “p × D
a ”is set.

Also in this multi-sample scanning, the time required to scan the reading range (total number of lines m) of the original 12 (the entire scan time T of one screen T
b) is the time T3 required for one cycle described above (see FIG. 7)
And the number of repetitions Ns (Tb
= T3 x Ns). Further, the number of repetitions Ns is about (m / 2
/ p) × n times.

If multi-sample scanning is to be realized using the conventional monochrome 1-line sensor (FIG. 18) (pitch p), the same line in the reading range of the original 12 (total number of lines m) is n times each. In order to read, the number of repetitions becomes (m / p) × n times.

On the other hand, in the present invention, the reading cycle of the two-dimensional image (one screen) of the original 12 is executed in units of two lines, that is, two light receiving lines (a + b, b + c,
(either of c + a) is used to simultaneously acquire RGB image data for two lines, and the scan block 19 is set to p
Since the line is moved, the number of repetitions Ns (≈m / 2 / p ×
n) can be about half of the number of repetitions (= m / p × n) in the related art.

Therefore, the entire scan time Tb of one screen of the original 12 (= T3 × Ns≈T3 × m / 2 / p × n)
Also, the scan time (= T1 × m / p × n) of the conventional multi-sample scanning can be reduced to about half. That is, it is possible to obtain a high-quality multi-sample scanning image with reduced noise (improvement of S / N) in about half the scan time of the conventional multi-sample scanning.

In the above-described embodiment, the image sensor 17 is composed of a monochrome image sensor (three light receiving lines a, b, c), and the color separation of RGB is performed by the switching light emission of the illumination light source 14. Although the example of the image input device 10 for reading 12 color images has been described, the present invention can be applied to a configuration using a color image sensor. In this color image sensor, the R line, the G line, and the B line are each composed of three light receiving lines a, b, and c (see FIG. 2). Note that the R line, G line, and B line are not close to each other and are separated by several lines.

In the image input device using this color image sensor, like the image input device 10 using the monochrome image sensor (light receiving lines a, b, c) described above, the original 12 is scanned in about half the scanning time of the conventional one. A color image on one screen can be read. In addition, noise reduction (S /
It is also possible to obtain a high-quality multi-sample scanning image with improved N) in a scan time which is about half that of conventional multi-sample scanning.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the example of the image sensor 17 in which the two light receiving lines a and b are arranged close to each other in the light receiving area 41 (1) has been described.
Three or more light receiving lines may be close to each other within 1 (1).
However, if the number of light receiving lines adjacent to each other increases, the manufacturing cost of the image sensor and the cost of the RAM (line buffer) also increase. Therefore, it is most preferable that the number of light receiving lines in the light receiving region 41 (1) is two. If the number of light receiving lines adjacent to each other in the light receiving region 41 (1) is two, high-speed reading can be realized while suppressing an increase in cost.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the structure (FIG. 2) in which the distance Dc between the light receiving area 41 (1) and the light receiving area 41 (2) of the image sensor 17 is 7 lines has been described as an example. However, the present invention can be applied to a configuration in which the spacing Dc is one line or more. However, the distance Dc is the length along the Y direction of each of the light receiving lines a to c (size Dy of the light receiving unit 41).
Must be N times (N is an integer greater than or equal to 1). By setting the distance Dc to be N times the size Dy, the distance Db between the image pickup line b and the image pickup line c on the original 12 is also the length Da of the image pickup lines a to c along the y direction (see FIG. 3). It can be N times as large as (b)). As a result, it is possible to simultaneously read two lines of the original 12 which are separated from each other.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, red (R).
An example of reading a two-dimensional image of the original 12 using three colors of green (G) and blue (B) has been described, but the present invention is also applied to the case of reading a two-dimensional image using two colors or four or more colors. it can. Furthermore, not only when reading a color image of the original 12,
The same effect can be obtained when reading a monochrome image. The same effect can be obtained when the exposure time of the illumination light is longer than the transfer time TCCD of the image sensor.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example of reading a two-dimensional image of the original 12 held on the slide mount has been described, but even the original held on the film holder may be read.
Similarly, strip film can be read in a short time. Not only for reading transparent originals (original 12),
The present invention can be applied to the case of reading a reflective original (for example, paper).

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the reading optical system (14 to 17) moves in the sub-scanning direction together with the scan block 19 with respect to the fixed original 12 has been described. 17 to 17) may be fixed and the original 12 may be moved in the sub-scanning direction. The original 12 and the reading optical system (14 to 17) may be relatively moved in the sub-scanning direction.

In the above-described embodiment, the original 12 is illuminated by the linear illumination light including at least the image pickup lines a, b, c (FIG. 3), but the reading range of the original 12 is entirely illuminated. The present invention can also be applied to (area lighting). Further, in the above-described embodiment, the delay time TD of the scan block 19 is “TLB + TCCD <TD <T.
The case of satisfying “LB + 2 × TCCD” has been described as an example.
The present invention can be applied regardless of the delay time TD of the scan block 19.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the image input program executed by the control circuit 21 of the image input device 10 is recorded in the ROM 22 has been described, but the host computer 30 externally connected via the interface 29 is described.
The image input program may be recorded in the hard disk 33. Further, instead of the control circuit 21 of the image input apparatus 10, the CPU 31 of the host computer 30 may be used to perform various controls.

When various controls are performed in accordance with the image input program recorded in the hard disk 33 of the host computer 30, prior to the control, a computer-readable recording medium (for example, the CD-ROM 34) in which the necessary image input program is recorded. The image input program installed in the hard disk 33 from this recording medium may be used.

Alternatively, an image input program (driver software, firmware) downloaded from the hard disk 33 by accessing a home page from the terminal such as the host computer 30 via the Internet may be used. To download, for example, while accessing the home page from the terminal, select (click) the image input device from the product display on the screen, and then click the O
It is executed by selecting the driver software and firmware that match the S environment. The connection between the terminal and the Internet includes dial-up connection and connection using a dedicated line with the provider.

Further, instead of the RAM 23 of the image input device 10, the memory 32 of the host computer 30 or the hard disk 33 may be used. Image input device 10
The interface 29 between the host computer 30 and the host computer 30 is not limited to the IEEE 1394 or SCSI interface, and other interfaces (USB, parallel, etc.) can be used.

[0173]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Even if the time required for one cycle is not shortened at any reading resolution, the scanning time of the entire one screen of the document can be significantly shortened, so that the working time can be saved and the efficiency can be improved. Further, it is possible to improve the quality of an image without increasing the scanning time of the entire one screen.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an image input device 10 of this embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic diagram of a main part of an image sensor 17 incorporated in the image input device 10 of the present embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating imaging lines a, b, and c on the original 12 by the image sensor 17.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an image input device 10 of the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an image reading operation of this embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a subroutine relating to scan block movement control in step S4 of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart of the image reading operation of the present embodiment.

[Figure 8] Types of reading resolution (pitch 1-4,8,9)
It is a schematic diagram explaining.

FIG. 9: Setting of movement amount of scan block (pitch 1,
It is a schematic diagram explaining 8).

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating setting of a movement amount of a scan block (pitch 4, 2).

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating setting of a movement amount of a scan block (pitch 9, 3).

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the reading range of the original 12 is scanned by two light receiving lines a and b (pitch 1).

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the reading range of the original 12 is scanned by two light receiving lines b and c (pitch 8).

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining how the reading range of a document 12 is scanned by two light receiving lines a and c (pitch 9).

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram for explaining how the reading range of the original 12 is scanned by two light receiving lines b and c (pitch 2).

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram for explaining how the reading range of the original 12 is scanned by two light receiving lines a and c (pitch 3).

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the reading range of the original 12 is scanned by two light receiving lines b and c (pitch 4).

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a monochrome 1-line sensor incorporated in a conventional scanner.

FIG. 19 is a timing chart of an image reading operation when a monochrome 1-line sensor is used.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a color three-line sensor incorporated in a conventional scanner.

FIG. 21 is a timing chart of an image reading operation when a color 3-line sensor is used.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 Image input device 11 housing 12 manuscripts 13 insertion slot 14 Illumination light source 15a illumination lens 16b projection lens 17 Image sensor 18 motor 19 scan blocks 41 Light receiving part 42 Lead-out Gate (ROG) 43 CCD analog shift register 44 Guide bar 45 nuts 46 lead screw

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) H04N 5/335 H04N 1/04 102 H01L 27/14 BF term (reference) 4M118 AA10 AB01 BA11 CA02 FA08 FA44 GC08 5C024 CX37 CY16 DX01 EX01 GY01 JX05 JX21 5C051 AA01 BA02 DA06 DA09 DB01 DB31 DC02 DE02 EA01 FA04 5C072 AA01 BA03 BA16 CA07 CA12 EA05 FA08 FB23 NA02 NA04 QA11 TA05 VA03

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of light receiving portions for accumulating charges according to incident light are provided in three or more light receiving lines arranged in close proximity to each other along one direction and one or more of the three or more light receiving lines are provided. It is a solid-state image sensor provided with the transfer part which transfers the electric charge accumulated in each light-receiving part for every light-receiving line, Comprising: Three or more said light-receiving lines are arranged in order along the direction orthogonal to the said one direction. Except for a specific one of the three or more light-receiving lines, the first light-receiving regions that are arranged close to each other in the orthogonal direction and that are elongated in the one direction are formed. The specific one is arranged at a position apart from the first light-receiving region by a predetermined distance in the orthogonal direction, and forms a second light-receiving region elongated in the one direction. And the predetermined interval between the second light receiving region and The N times the perpendicular length along the direction of linear arrays (N is an integer of 1 or more) solid-state imaging device characterized in that it corresponds to. 2. An illumination unit for illuminating an original with illumination light, a solid-state image sensor according to claim 1 for capturing light from the original illuminated with the illumination light, and the light-receiving line of the solid-state image sensor. Moving means for relatively moving the image pickup line on the original corresponding to the above and the original along a sub-scanning direction corresponding to the orthogonal direction of the solid-state image pickup device, and at least the solid-state image pickup device and the moving means. And a control unit for controlling reading of a two-dimensional image of the original document, wherein the control unit selects any two of the three or more light receiving lines of the solid-state imaging device. By controlling the selection unit and the transfer unit of the solid-state imaging device, the charges accumulated in each light receiving unit of the two light receiving lines selected by the light receiving line selection unit are simultaneously transferred for each light receiving line. An image input device comprising a transfer control unit. 3. The image input device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit controls the moving unit so that the imaging line and the document are sub-scanned after the illumination light is irradiated by the illumination unit. A movement control unit that relatively moves a predetermined amount along the direction, and the length of the imaging line in the sub-scanning direction is D1,
When the distance between the two imaging lines corresponding to the two light receiving lines selected by the light receiving line selection unit is D2, and a coefficient obtained by dividing the distance D2 by the length D1 is M (M is an integer of 0 or more). ), The movement control unit calculates the constant amount for moving the imaging line and the document relative to each other by adding 1 to the coefficient M.
An image input device characterized by being determined according to a divisor of (M + 1). 4. The image input device according to claim 3, wherein the fixed amount is set to an amount obtained by multiplying the divisor of (M + 1) by the length D1. Image input device. 5. The image input device according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined amount is determined by multiplying (M + 1) by 2 and the length D1. Image input device. 6. The image input device according to claim 3, wherein the constant amount is obtained by multiplying a divisor K other than the maximum divisor of the divisors of (M + 1) by the length D1. Amount
(K × D1) or an amount obtained by multiplying the sum of (M + 1) and the divisor K by the length D1 ((M + 1 +
K) × D1), and the movement control unit performs relative movement corresponding to (K × D1) ((M + 1) / K-1) times when moving the imaging line and the document relative to each other. After repeated execution,
An image input device characterized in that a relative movement corresponding to ((M + 1 + K) × D1) is executed once. 7. The image input device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit has an input unit for externally inputting a designated value of the reading resolution of the two-dimensional image of the original document, and the light receiving line selection unit. Selecting any two of the three or more light receiving lines of the solid-state imaging device based on the designated value of the reading resolution, and the movement control unit based on the designated value of the reading resolution, An image input device, characterized in that the fixed amount is set to relatively move an imaging line and the document.