JP2010109944A - Image reading unit - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image reading unit storing image data in all originals to be read in a memory unit. <P>SOLUTION: The image reading unit to read plural original images is equipped with: an image reader to read the original images; the memory unit to store the image read out by the image reader; a vacant capacity detector to detect a vacant capacity in the memory unit; and a total data value calculator in which the image reader reads the original image in accordance with a predetermined reading condition, and calculates the predictive value of the whole image data quantity in the total originals on the basis of the image data in the original. The image reader compares the vacant capacity in the memory unit detected by the vacant capacity detector, with the predictive value of the whole image data quantity calculated by the total data value calculator. When the predictive value is determined to exceed the vacant capacity, the image reader reads the images in all originals in accordance with the reading condition which has lower image quality than the predetermined reading condition. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus that reads image data of a plurality of documents and stores the image data in a storage area.

A conventional image reading apparatus reads an automatically fed document one page at a time, detects the remaining capacity of the memory while recording the read image data in a memory after compression processing at a predetermined compression level, and the remaining capacity Is determined to be less than or equal to the specified value, the image data recorded in the memory is expanded and copied and output, and the remaining amount of memory is increased so that the image data of the document on and after the next page is stored in the memory. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).
JP 2002-320057 A (paragraph “0015” to paragraph “0018”, FIG. 5)

  However, in the above-described conventional technique, when it is determined that the remaining storage area of a storage device such as a memory for storing the read image data is equal to or less than a specified value, the image data stored in the memory is expanded and copied. Since the output and the remaining amount of the memory are increased so that the image data of the originals of the next page and thereafter are stored in the memory, the image data of all the originals to be read are stored in a memory (for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory). There is a problem that it cannot be stored in such an external storage device.

Further, the operator cannot predict whether the image data of all the originals to be read can be stored in the memory, and if it cannot be further stored, the image data of all the originals can be changed by changing how the originals are read. There is a problem that it is impossible to know whether or not it can be stored in the memory, and the convenience of the user is impaired.
An object of the present invention is to provide an image reading apparatus that can store image data of all originals to be read in a storage device.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an image reading apparatus that reads an image of a plurality of documents, an image reading unit that reads an image of the document, a storage device that stores an image read by the image reading unit, and an empty capacity of the storage device And a total data amount for calculating an estimated value of the total image data amount of all the originals based on the image data of the originals. A calculation unit, and compares the free space of the storage device detected by the free space detection unit with the predicted value of the total image data amount calculated by the total data amount calculation unit, and the predicted value is When it is determined that the capacity is exceeded, the image reading unit reads an image of all documents in accordance with a reading condition in which image quality is lower than the predetermined reading condition.

  According to the present invention as described above, it is possible to store the image data of all the read originals in the storage device.

  Embodiments of an image reading apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  The image reading apparatus of the present invention reads all originals from the amount of image data read in the first reading mode when writing image data obtained by scanning a plurality of originals in an empty area of a mounted USB memory. If the total data amount is predicted and it is determined that the predicted total data amount exceeds the free space of the USB memory, the entire original is read in the second reading mode that is predicted not to exceed the free space of the USB memory. It is what I made it.

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the first embodiment, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the image reading apparatus in the first embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a control of the image reading apparatus in the first embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows a system.
In FIG. 2, reference numeral 1 denotes a multifunction machine as an image reading apparatus. This multifunction device 1 has a scanner 2 as an image sensor for reading image data of a conveyed document, and one or a plurality of documents to be read by the scanner 2, and separates and feeds out the documents one by one. Auto Document Feeder) 3, a liquid crystal display as a display means, an operation panel 4 having a touch panel and various switches for accepting an operator's operation, image data read by the scanner 2, and print data received via a network interface Printer 5 for printing, a paper feed tray 6 for storing printing paper to be printed by the printer 5, and a USB interface 7 for performing USB standard communication.

In the present embodiment, the image reading apparatus is described as a multifunction peripheral. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any apparatus having a scanner 2, an ADF 3, an operation panel 4, and a USB interface 7 may be a facsimile or a scanner. Good.
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 10 denotes a control unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a calculation unit, and 11 denotes a storage unit composed of a volatile memory or a nonvolatile memory. The control unit 10 and the storage unit 11 include the scanner 2, the operation panel 4, the printer 5, the USB interface 7, the network interface 12 that communicates with an external device, and image processing that processes image data read by the scanner 2. An ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 13 is connected to the data bus 14, and the control unit 10 controls the entire multifunction device 1 based on a control program stored in the storage unit 11.

In FIG. 1, the multifunction device 1 includes an operation panel control unit 20, an image reading unit 21, an image data storage unit 22, a data format conversion unit 23, a USB memory 24, a free space detection unit 25, a total page number storage unit 26, and an image area. The functional block includes a detection unit 27, a page data amount calculation unit 28, a total data amount calculation unit 29, a data size comparison unit 30, and a recommended setting calculation unit 31.
The operation panel control unit 20 performs control for acquiring display on the liquid crystal display, and input information from the touch panel and the switch. The operation panel control unit 20 manages the set values of various operation modes and controls to notify each unit of a process start instruction.

The image reading unit 21 controls the scanner 2 and the ADF 3 so as to acquire image data (RAW data) of a plurality of documents placed on the ADF 3 for each document.
The image data storage unit 22 stores the image data output from the image reading unit 21 in the memory area of the storage unit 11. Note that the image data storage unit 22 stores the document with the maximum paper size among the standard paper sizes that can be read by the multifunction device 1, the highest resolution supported by the multifunction device 1, and the maximum number of gradations supported by the multifunction device 1. The image data of all documents placed on the ADF 3 when the entire area is read can be stored in the storage unit 11 in an uncompressed state.

  The data format conversion unit 23 acquires image data (RAW data) stored in the image data storage unit 22 and can exchange file data with an image format (for example, JPEG, PDF, TIFF, XPS image format). File data). Therefore, the data format conversion unit 23 has a compression function such as JPEG compression or CCITT compression as part of the data conversion function. This compression function is implemented by a hardware circuit by the image processing ASIC 13.

The USB memory 24 as a storage device is a USB memory that is attached to the USB memory interface 7 of the multifunction device 1 by an operator. The USB memory 24 is connected to the data output path of the data format conversion unit 23 and configured to store the output data, and stores the image data read by the image reading unit 21.
The free capacity detection unit 25 is a detection unit that detects the free capacity of the USB memory 24. Note that a control method for detecting the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is detected by a known technique.

The total page number storage unit 26 stores the total page number of the document read by the scanner 2 input by the operator and notified from the operation panel control unit 20 in the memory area of the storage unit 11.
The image area detection unit 27 reads the image data stored in the image data storage unit 22 in the order of raster scan data, and is a non-white rectangular image area in the image data, that is, a character, figure, or It is a detection part which detects the image area | region where a photograph etc. exist. The image area detection unit 27 outputs image area information indicating the upper, lower, left, and right dot coordinates of a non-white rectangular image area in the image data as a detection result.

Here, an example of the image area information output by the image area detection unit 27 will be described based on the explanatory diagram of the document area detection result in the first embodiment of FIG.
7A and 7B show image data in which the image area detection unit 27 detects a rectangular image area that is not white, and FIG. 7B shows an original in which the image data of the read original has a predetermined format. On the other hand, (a) is an example of image data of a document that does not have a predetermined format. The image area detection unit 27 detects non-white rectangular image areas 71 and 72 from image data of a document defining such a reading area.

  When the rectangular image areas 71 and 72 are detected, the image area detecting unit 27 sets the upper left corner of the document as the coordinate origin (0, 0), the left side X coordinate x1 (dot) of the rectangular image areas 71 and 72, and the right side X A coordinate x2 (dot), an upper side Y coordinate y1 (dot), a lower side Y coordinate y2 (dot) are detected, and an upper left coordinate (x1, y1) and a lower right coordinate (x2, y2) are output as image area information; To do.

  Note that the image area detection unit 27 acquires the width, height, number of gradations, and color / monochrome mode image data type information in advance in order to detect a non-white rectangular image area in the image data. Shall. This image data type information is input in advance on the operation panel 4, for example, and stored in the storage unit 11. However, in the present embodiment, the means is not specified, and the operation panel control unit 20 reads the document. It is determined until the start instruction is output, and is stored as setting information in the storage unit 11.

Returning to the description of FIG. 1, the page data amount calculation unit 28 acquires the image area information output from the image area detection unit 27 and the image data type information from the storage unit 11 to estimate the image data for one page of the document. It is a calculation part which calculates quantity.
The total data amount calculation unit 29 acquires the total number of original pages stored in the total page number storage unit 26 and the estimated amount of image data per page calculated by the page data amount calculation unit 28 and reads all originals. It is a calculation part which calculates the total image data amount at the time.

The data size comparison unit 30 acquires the free space of the USB memory 24 detected by the free space detection unit 25 and the total image data amount calculated by the total data amount calculation unit 29 and compares them, and the total image data amount is USB It is determined whether it is less than the free capacity of the memory 24, that is, whether the image data of all the originals can be stored in the USB memory 24.
The recommended setting calculation unit 31 is based on the determination result of the data size comparison unit 30, the resolution of the image data for storing the image data of all the originals in the USB memory 24, the number of gradations, and the recommended setting information for the color / monochrome mode. It is a calculation part which calculates. The calculated recommended setting information is notified to the operation panel control unit 20.

As described above, the multi-function device 1 is configured by each functional block, and each functional block is controlled by the control unit 10.
The operation of the multifunction device 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.
The multi-function device 1 of this embodiment reads one original from among all the originals that are part of a plurality of sheets (for example, about 10 sheets, 20 sheets, and 50 sheets) by the scanner 2, and images of the read originals By analyzing the data, the total image data amount of all the originals is predicted, and when it is determined that the predicted data amount is larger than the empty area amount of the USB memory 24, the USB memory 24 is based on the read image data. The resolution, the number of gradations, and the recommended setting information for the color / monochrome mode that can be stored in the sky area are calculated.

  The operation of the MFP 1 is described below with reference to a flowchart showing the main processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 8, a flowchart showing the setting mode processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 9, and in the first embodiment of FIG. A flowchart showing size prediction processing, a flowchart showing image region detection processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 11, a flowchart showing recommended setting calculation processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 12, and a first embodiment of FIG. In the flowchart showing the scanning process in FIG.

First, the main process of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. It is assumed that the operator attaches the USB memory 24 to the USB interface 7 of the multifunction device 1.
S101: The control unit 10 of the multifunction device 1 performs a setting mode process. The operator performs scan setting for setting information for reading a document from the operation panel 4 by the setting mode process. In this setting mode process, a pre-scan operation (first reading mode) is performed in which one original is read from the entire original placed on the ADF 3. Further, information for reading the document in the main scanning process is determined based on the result of the pre-scan operation. Details of the setting mode processing that is a feature of the present invention will be described later.

S102: When the setting mode process is completed, the control unit 10 reads the image data of all the originals placed on the ADF 3 (second reading mode), and performs the read / write mode process of writing the image data to the USB memory 24. Do. Details of the read / write mode processing will be described later.
Thus, the control unit 10 performs the setting mode process (pre-scan process) and the read / write mode process (main scan process), and ends the main process.

Next, the setting mode process described above will be described with reference to FIG.
S201: The control unit 10 detects that the USB memory 24 is attached to the USB interface 7.
S202: When the USB memory 24 is attached, the free capacity detection unit 25 detects the free capacity of the USB memory 24.

S203: The operation panel control unit 20 displays the free capacity of the USB memory 24 detected by the free capacity detection unit 25. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, “USB memory free space: 120 MB” is displayed.
S204: Next, the operation panel control unit 20 displays a setting screen on the operation panel and accepts an operation for setting information for reading a document (setting ScanToUSBMemory).

  For this setting, for example, a setting screen 40 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed, and an input operation for setting various setting items on the touch panel is accepted. As setting items, as shown in FIG. 4, resolution 42, color mode 43, gradation 44, file format 45, and document size 46 are provided. 600 dpi, color mode 43 can select color or monochrome, gradation 44 can select multi-value or binary, and file format 45 can be JPEG, PDF, XPS, TIFF. Is selectable.

In FIG. 4, the shaded portion indicates the currently selected setting. For example, the resolution 42 indicates that 300 dpi is selected and set. Similarly, the color mode 43 is color, the gradation 44 is multi-value, and the file Format 45 indicates that PDF is selected and set. The selected setting is stored in the storage unit 11 as a reading condition.
S205: The operation panel control unit 20 accepts an operation for starting a scan for starting reading of a document or a size prediction start for starting prediction of an image data amount on the operation panel 4. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a “multiple page size prediction” button 47 for accepting a size prediction start operation and a “scan start” button 48 for accepting a scan start operation are displayed. Accept.

S206: The operation panel control unit 20 detects that either the scan start or the size prediction start is selected, and when detecting that the size prediction start is selected, the operation panel control unit 20 moves the process to S207, and selects the scan start. If it is detected, the setting mode process is terminated.
S207: The control unit 10 performs a size prediction process for predicting the total image data amount of all documents. Details of the size prediction process will be described later.

S208: The control unit 10 determines whether or not the total image data amount predicted by the size prediction process exceeds the free capacity of the USB memory 24. If the control unit 10 determines that the total capacity exceeds the free capacity of the USB memory 24, the process proceeds to S209. If it is determined that it does not exceed, the process proceeds to S204.
If it is determined that the predicted total image data amount does not exceed the free capacity of the USB memory 24, the setting mode processing is performed by returning to the setting screen in S204 and pressing the “start scan” button 48 on the setting screen. Then, the process proceeds to S102 in FIG. 8 to perform the read / write mode process (main scan process).

S209: When it is determined that the total amount of image data predicted by the size prediction process exceeds the free capacity of the USB memory 24, the recommended setting calculation unit 31 sets the resolution of the image data for storing the image data of all the originals in the USB memory 24. Then, recommended setting calculation processing is performed for calculating recommended setting information for the number of gradations and color / monochrome mode. Details of the recommended setting calculation process will be described later.
S210: The operation panel control unit 20 displays the recommended setting calculated in the recommended setting calculation process on the operation panel 4 as a size prediction result screen.

The operation panel control unit 20 displays a size prediction result screen 60 as shown in FIG. 6, for example.
The size prediction result screen 60 displays the amount of data overflowing from the free capacity of the USB memory 24 (for example, 24 MB over) as the prediction result 61.
At a resolution of 62, 300 dpi and 600 dpi are blacked out to inform the operator that the current capacity of the USB memory 24 cannot be selected, while 200 dpi is displayed in diagonal lines and the recommended setting is changed to 200 dpi. Notify the operator. Since 300 dpi has been selected as the resolution at the time of the size prediction process, it is recommended that the resolution accuracy be lowered from 300 dpi to 200 dpi. By setting the resolution to 200 dpi, it is expected that the total image data amount will be approximately two-thirds of the data amount when 300 dpi is selected.

  Further, in the file format 63, the TIFF format is blacked out to notify the operator that it cannot be selected with the current free space of the USB memory 24. This is because the PDF format stores image data compressed in JPEG, while the TIFF format stores data in the uncompressed format in the color mode, so the data amount of the TIFF format is larger than the data amount of the PDF format. Therefore, it cannot be selected.

S211: The operation panel control unit 20 inquires of the operator whether to reflect the recommended setting displayed on the size prediction result screen. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the operation panel control unit 20 displays a “reflect and end” button 64 and an “end without reflecting” button 65 on the size prediction result screen 60, and accepts an operator's selection operation using the touch panel. .
S212: When operation panel control unit 20 accepts an operation for reflecting recommended settings, the process proceeds to S213, and when an operation for not reflecting recommended settings is accepted, the process proceeds to S204.

  S213: Upon receiving an operation for reflecting the recommended setting, the operation panel control unit 20 notifies the operation panel control unit 20 of the recommended setting displayed on the size prediction result screen, that is, the recommended setting calculated by the recommended setting calculation unit 31. The recommended setting is stored in the storage unit 11 as each setting value of the reading condition, and is reflected in the current setting. For example, when the process proceeds to S204, the setting in which 300 dpi has been selected as the resolution is changed to 200 dpi.

In this way, the setting mode process is performed.
Next, the size prediction process described in S207 of FIG. 9 will be described based on FIG.
S301: The operation panel control unit 20 displays a size prediction screen for performing an operation of predicting the total image data amount on the operation panel 4.
The size prediction screen displayed by the operation panel control unit 20 is a size prediction screen 50 as shown in FIG. 5, for example, along with the free space of the USB memory 24, “the current setting is used to predict the image size of the multiple page scan. , Etc., and guidance words such as “Please enter the number of documents.” Are displayed to guide the input of the number of all documents to be read.

S302: When the size prediction screen is displayed, the operation panel control unit 20 receives an input of the total number of pages as the number of all originals to be read, and stores the input total number of pages in the total page number storage unit 26.
For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the operation panel control unit 20 causes the operator to input the number of all originals for which the total image data amount is to be predicted from the numeric keypad of the operation panel 4, and the total number of input originals is calculated. The page number 51 is stored in the total page number storage unit 26. FIG. 5 shows an example in which the total number of pages 51 of the document is input as 100 sheets.

S303: When the total number of pages is input, the operation panel control unit 20 waits for the prediction start button 53 for starting the operation of predicting the total image data amount to be pressed.
For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the operation panel control unit 20 displays a guidance word 52 such as “Please set the first document on the ADF.” And starts an operation of predicting the total image data amount. The “prediction start” button 53 and the “return” button 54 for stopping the size prediction process are displayed, and pressing of the “prediction start” button 53 is detected by the touch panel. When the “return” button 54 is pressed, the size prediction process is terminated and the setting screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.

S 304: Upon detecting that the “prediction start” button 53 is pressed, the image reading unit 21 performs a scanning operation of reading the first document placed on the ADF 3, and stores the image data of the read document in the image data storage unit 22. Store.
S305: When the image data of the original is stored in the image data storage unit 22, the image region detection unit 27 performs an image region detection process for extracting an image region from the image data. Details of the image area detection process will be described later.

S306: The page data amount calculation unit 28 extracts the upper left coordinates (x1, y1) and lower right coordinates (x2, y2), color / monochrome, and the number of gradations of the image area output from the image area detection unit 27. The image data amount (uncompressed) of the image area is calculated, and the calculated image data amount is used as the predicted page data amount of one original.
For example, the page data amount calculation unit 28 first calculates the number of pixels in the image area (pixel_per_page) as CEILING ((x2−x1 + 1), 8) × (y2−y1 + 1) by dividing the X coordinate direction into 8-bit units. . CEILING (n, 8) is a function rounded up to a multiple of 8 that is n or more and closest to n.

  Next, the page data amount is calculated as the calculated number of pixels (pixel_per_page) × bk × bc. Note that bk and bc are the number of bytes acquired based on the table shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C and the current scan setting value (for example, bc = 3 for color, bk = 3 for multi-value). 1), the predicted value of the page data amount is calculated by multiplying the calculated number of pixels.

S307: The total data amount calculation unit 29 multiplies the predicted page data amount by the total page number extracted from the total page number storage unit 26 (page data amount × total page number) to calculate the total data amount.
S308: The data size comparison unit 30 compares the calculated total data amount with the free capacity of the USB memory 24 detected by the free capacity detection unit 25.

S309: As a result of the comparison, if the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is greater than or equal to the total amount of data, “storable” is output. On the other hand, if the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is less than the total amount of data, “storage over” is output. The prediction process is terminated.
Next, the image region detection process described in S305 of FIG. 10 will be described based on FIG. Note that all the steps of the image region detection process are operations performed by the image region detection unit 27.

S401: The image area detection unit 27 acquires data for one line of the document image data stored in the image data storage unit 22.
S402: The image region detection unit 27 analyzes the acquired data for one line, and detects the dot coordinates at the left end and the dot coordinates at the right end of the drawing region. When the read image data is multi-valued, a predetermined threshold value is set, and when the density of the pixel is equal to or higher than the threshold value, it is determined that a character or a graphic exists on the document, whereby the left edge and the right edge of the drawing area Is detected.

S403: The image region detection unit 27 updates the left end X coordinate (x1) and the right end X coordinate (x2) based on the detected left end dot coordinates and right end dot coordinates.
S404: The image area detection unit 27 determines whether or not the data for one line is pure white line data. When the read image data is multi-valued, a predetermined threshold value is set, and when the density of all pixels in the line is less than the threshold value, it is determined that the line data is pure white.

  S405: The image region detection unit 27 updates the upper end Y coordinate (y1) and the lower end Y coordinate (y2) based on the detected pure white line data. For example, when the line data is read from the top to the bottom of the document, the Y coordinate that first detected line data that is not white is the upper end Y coordinate (y1), and the Y coordinate that last detected line data that is not white is the lower end. The Y coordinate (y2) is assumed.

S406: The image area detection unit 27 determines whether or not all the data for one line of the document image data has been acquired. As a result of the determination, it is determined that there is still one line of data to be acquired. Then, the process proceeds to S401, the data for the next line is processed, and if it is determined that all the data for one line has been acquired, the process proceeds to S407.
S407: The image region detection unit 27 uses the detected left end X coordinate (x1), right end X coordinate (x2), upper end Y coordinate (y1), and lower end Y coordinate (y2) as the left side X coordinate (x1) of the image region. ), Right side X coordinate (x2), upper side Y coordinate (y1), and lower side Y coordinate (y2).

Next, the recommended setting calculation process described in S209 of FIG. 9 will be described based on FIG. Note that all the steps of the recommended setting calculation process are operations performed by the recommended setting calculation unit 31.
S501: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 sets values of the current resolution ratio r, the current mode ratio c, and the current gradation number ratio k based on the settings at the time of pre-scanning.
Here, the setting at the time of pre-scan is the setting of ScanToUSBMemory for reading the original received in S204 of the setting mode process of FIG. 9, and the pre-scan was performed by the size prediction process of S207 of FIG. Scan, that is, the scan performed in S304 in the size prediction process of FIG.

Also, the values of the resolution ratio r, mode ratio c, and gradation number ratio k are shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B when the prescan has a resolution of 300 dpi, the color / monochrome mode has color, and the gradation number has multiple values. ), R = 3, c = 3, and k = 8 are set based on the table of (c).
S502: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 initializes the values of the resolution ratio r ′, the mode ratio c ′, and the gradation number ratio k ′ of the recommended candidates to r ′ = r, c ′ = c, and k ′ = k. .

The recommended setting calculation unit 31 calculates the recommended setting total data amount with the recommended setting values as r ′ = r, c ′ = c, and k ′ = k.
Here, the recommended set total data amount is: recommended set total data amount = (total data amount calculated by the total data amount calculation unit 29) × (r ′ / r) ² × (c ′ / c) × (k ′ / k).
S503: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 determines whether the recommended setting total data amount is equal to or less than the free capacity of the USB memory 24.

As a result of the determination, if it is determined that the recommended total data amount is less than or equal to the free capacity of the USB memory 24, the process proceeds to S512, and if it is determined that the recommended total data amount is greater than the free capacity of the USB memory 24. The process proceeds to S504.
S504: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 determines whether there is a setting candidate for the resolution ratio r ′ of the next lowest quality recommended candidate. If it is determined as a result of the determination, the process proceeds to S505. If it is determined that it does not exist, the process proceeds to S506.

S505: The recommended candidate resolution ratio r ′ is changed to one low-quality setting value, and the recommended setting total data amount is calculated.
For example, when the pre-scan resolution is 300 dpi and the next lowest resolution is 200 dpi, when this step is performed for the first time, r = 3 and r ′ = 2 based on the table shown in FIG. Therefore, (r ′ / r) ² becomes (4/9), and the total data amount calculated by the total data amount calculation unit 29 in the size prediction process is multiplied by (4/9).

This is because the uncompressed scan image data is changed from the resolution 300 dpi to 200 dpi, and the vertical and horizontal sizes are (2/3) times larger, so the total image data amount is (4/9) times. Is meant to be.
When the recommended set total data amount is calculated in this way, the process proceeds to S503.
S506: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 determines whether the recommended setting total data amount is equal to or less than the free capacity of the USB memory 24.

As a result of the determination, if it is determined that the recommended total data amount is less than or equal to the free capacity of the USB memory 24, the process proceeds to S512, and if it is determined that the recommended total data amount is greater than the free capacity of the USB memory 24. The process proceeds to S507.
S507: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 determines whether there is a setting candidate for the mode ratio c ′ of the next lowest quality recommended candidate. If it is determined as a result of the determination, the process proceeds to S508. If it is determined that it does not exist, the process proceeds to S509.

S508: The recommended candidate mode ratio c ′ is changed to one low-quality setting value, and the recommended setting total data amount is calculated.
For example, when the pre-scan mode is color and the next lowest quality mode is monochrome, when this step is performed for the first time, c = 3 and c ′ = 1 based on the table shown in FIG. Therefore, (c ′ / c) becomes (1/3), and the recommended set total data amount calculated in S502 or S505 is multiplied by (1/3).

This is because when the scan setting is color and multi-value, the scan image data is composed of 3 bytes of RGB data per pixel, and when the scan setting is monochrome and multi-value, the scan image data has a density of 1 byte per pixel. This is because it consists of data. When the scan setting is monochrome and binary, the scan image data is composed of 1 bit per pixel.
When the recommended set total data amount is calculated in this way, the process proceeds to S506.

S509: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 determines whether the recommended setting total data amount is equal to or less than the free capacity of the USB memory 24.
As a result of the determination, if it is determined that the recommended total data amount is less than or equal to the free capacity of the USB memory 24, the process proceeds to S512, and if it is determined that the recommended total data amount is greater than the free capacity of the USB memory 24. The process proceeds to S510.

S510: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 determines whether there is a setting candidate for the gradation ratio k ′ of the recommended candidate with the next lowest quality, and if it is determined as a result of the determination, the process proceeds to S511. If it is determined that it does not exist, the process proceeds to S512.
S511: The recommended number of gradations ratio k ′ is changed to one low-quality setting value, and the recommended setting total data amount is calculated.

For example, when the number of gradations at the time of pre-scanning is multivalued, the number of gradations with the next lowest quality is binary, so when this step is performed for the first time, k = 8, k ′ = based on the table shown in FIG. 1 Therefore, (k ′ / k) becomes (1/8), and the recommended set total data amount calculated in S502, S505, or S508 is multiplied by (1/8).
When the recommended set total data amount is calculated in this way, the process proceeds to S509.

S512: The recommended setting calculation unit 31 outputs the values of the resolution ratio r ′, the mode ratio c ′, and the gradation number ratio k ′ as the current recommended setting ratio as the recommended setting calculation result, and ends the recommended setting calculation process. .
In the present embodiment, the example of changing the values of the resolution ratio r ′, mode ratio c ′, and gradation number ratio k ′ has been described, but in addition, file formats such as JPEG, PDF, XPS, or TIFF are used. It may be changed.

Next, the read / write mode process described in S102 of FIG. 8 will be described based on FIG.
S601: The operation panel control unit 20 accepts pressing of a scan start button (for example, the scan start button 48 on the setting screen 40 shown in FIG. 4) from the operation panel 4.
S602: When the operation panel control unit 20 detects the pressing of the scan start button, the process proceeds to S603, and when not detected, the process proceeds to S601.

S603: The image reading unit 21 starts conveying the document placed on the ADF 3.
S604: The image reading unit 21 determines whether or not a document exists in the ADF 3 by a detection unit such as a sensor (not shown). If it is determined that there is a document, the process proceeds to S605. The read / write mode process is terminated as having been completed.
S605: The image reading unit 21 separates and conveys the original placed on the ADF 3 one by one, and reads the image data of the original conveyed by the scanner 2 based on the current scan setting.

S606: The image reading unit 21 stores the read scanned image data in the image data storage unit 22.
S607: The data format conversion unit 23 converts the scan image data stored in the image data storage unit 22 into an image data file based on the current set value (file format).

S608: The control unit 10 stores the converted image data file in the USB memory 24, shifts the processing to S603, and continues reading the document.
In this way, the multifunction device 1 of the present embodiment reads one original from the whole original that forms one copy by a plurality of sheets (for example, about 10, 20, 50), and reads the original. By analyzing the image data of the original document, the total image data amount of all the original documents is predicted, and if it is determined that the predicted data amount is larger than the empty area amount of the USB memory 24, it is based on the read image data. The recommended setting information of the resolution, the number of gradations, and the color / monochrome mode of the image data that can be stored in the empty area of the USB memory 24 is calculated, and the image data of all the originals read with the recommended setting information is stored in the USB memory 24 Store.

  In this embodiment, the input of the total number of pages is accepted in S302 in FIG. 10, and the predicted total data amount is compared with the free capacity of the USB memory 24 to determine whether or not storage is possible. S302 is omitted, the number of pages that can be stored in the USB memory 24 is calculated by dividing the free capacity of the USB memory 24 by the estimated total data amount in S307 in FIG. 10, and the number of pages that can be stored in the USB memory 24 is further operated in S308. You may make it display on the screen of the panel 4. FIG. In such a case, S309 in FIG. 10 is deleted.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the image reading apparatus reads one original from the entire original by the scanner, analyzes the image data of the read original, and calculates the total image data amount of all the originals. Predicting and determining that the predicted amount of data is greater than the amount of free space in the USB memory, the resolution of image data that can be stored in the free space of the USB memory based on the read image data, the number of gradations, By calculating the recommended setting information of the color / monochrome mode and storing the image data of all the originals read with the recommended setting information in the USB memory, the image data of all the originals to be read are stored in the USB memory. The effect of being able to be obtained.

Further, when reading a document of a plurality of pages, the user can estimate whether the image data of all the documents can be stored in the USB memory with the current resolution, the number of gradations, and the setting information of the color / monochrome mode. The effect of becoming.
Further, when reading a document of a plurality of pages, the user can know the resolution, the number of gradations, and the recommended setting information of the color / monochrome mode that can store the image data of all the documents in the USB memory.

FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the second embodiment.
In FIG. 15, the multifunction device 1 includes an operation panel control unit 20, an image reading unit 21, an image data storage unit 22, a data format conversion unit 23, a USB memory 24, an empty capacity detection unit 25, a total page number storage unit 26, and an image area. The functional block includes a detection unit 27, a page data amount calculation unit 28, a total data amount calculation unit 29, a data size comparison unit 30, a recommended setting calculation unit 31, and a compressed data amount inspection unit 32.

The configuration of the image reading apparatus in the second embodiment is a configuration in which a compressed data amount inspection unit 32 is added to the configuration of the first embodiment. Note that parts similar to those of the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.
The compressed data amount inspection unit 32 is an inspection unit that calls the data format conversion unit 23 for the image region detected by the image region detection unit 27 and inspects the data compression amount when the image data in the image region is compressed. is there.

The operation of the MFP 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.
In addition, the flowchart which shows the main process in 1st Example of FIG. 8 demonstrated in 1st Example, the flowchart which shows the setting mode process in 1st Example of FIG. 9, and in 1st Example of FIG. A flowchart showing size prediction processing, a flowchart showing image region detection processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 11, a flowchart showing recommended setting calculation processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 12, and a first embodiment of FIG. 10 is replaced with the flowchart showing the size prediction process in the second embodiment in FIG. 18 because the flowchart showing the size prediction process in the first embodiment in FIG. 10 is replaced with the flowchart showing the size prediction process in the second embodiment in FIG. 9, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13 are omitted, and the size prediction process in the second embodiment of FIG. For flowchart illustrating only be described according to the steps represented in the figure S.

S701: The operation panel control unit 20 displays a size prediction screen for performing an operation of predicting the total image data amount on the operation panel 4.
The size prediction screen displayed by the operation panel control unit 20 is a size prediction screen 160 as shown in FIG. 16, for example, along with the free space of the USB memory 24, “the current setting is used to predict the image size of the multiple page scan. , Etc., and guidance words such as “Please enter the number of documents.” Are displayed to guide the input of the number of all documents to be read.

S702: When the size prediction screen is displayed, the operation panel control unit 20 receives an input of the total number of pages as the number of all originals to be read, and stores the input total number of pages in the total page number storage unit 26.
For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the operation panel control unit 20 causes the operator to input the number of all originals for which the total image data amount is to be predicted from the numeric keypad of the operation panel 4, and the total number of input originals is calculated. The page number 161 is stored in the total page number storage unit 26. FIG. 16 shows an example in which the total number of pages 161 of the document is input as 100 sheets.

S703: When the total number of pages is input, the operation panel control unit 20 waits for the prediction start button 163 for starting the operation of predicting the total image data amount to be pressed.
For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the operation panel control unit 20 displays a guidance word 162 such as “Please set one representative page in the ADF.” And starts an operation for predicting the total image data amount. A “prediction start” button 163 and a “return” button 164 for stopping the size prediction process are displayed, and pressing of the “prediction start” button 163 is detected by the touch panel. If the “return” button 164 is pressed, the size prediction process is terminated and the setting screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.

S <b> 704: When the pressing of the “prediction start” button is detected, the image reading unit 21 performs a scanning operation for reading the first sheet of the document placed on the ADF 3, and stores the image data of the read document in the image data storage unit 22. To do.
S705: When the image data of the document is stored in the image data storage unit 22, the image region detection unit 27 performs image region detection processing for extracting an image region from the image data. The image region detection process is as described above.

S706: The compressed data amount inspection unit 32 calls the data format conversion unit 23, compresses and inspects the image data of the image area extracted by the image region detection unit 27, and outputs the compressed data amount.
For example, as shown in FIG. 17A, the compressed data amount inspection unit 32 extracts image data line by line from the image area 171 extracted by the image area detection unit 27, and performs compression processing using the data format conversion unit 23. And calculate the amount of data when compressed. The compression process at this time is, for example, JPEG compression.

In the case of the PDF file format as an example of the image format, the paper size, the actual image data 172 (JPEG image) shown in FIG. 17B, and its position information are stored in the file as data.
In addition, if data of a white background portion that is not detected as an image area is compressed, the amount of data after compression is extremely small.

By calculating the data amount after compression stored in the USB memory 24 as in this embodiment, the page data amount can be predicted more accurately.
S707: The page data amount calculation unit 28 sets the compressed data amount output from the compressed data amount inspection unit 32 as the predicted page data amount of one original.
S708: The total data amount calculation unit 29 multiplies the predicted page data amount by the total page number extracted from the total page number storage unit 26 (page data amount × total page number) to calculate the total data amount.

S709: The data size comparison unit 30 compares the calculated total data amount with the free capacity of the USB memory 24 detected by the free capacity detection unit 25.
S710: As a result of the comparison, if the free space of the USB memory 24 is greater than or equal to the total data amount, “storable” is output, whereas if the free space of the USB memory 24 is less than the total data amount, “storage over” is output. The prediction process is terminated.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the amount of data after compression stored in the USB memory is calculated, and the total amount of data calculated based on the amount of data is calculated. By comparing the predicted value and the free space of the USB memory, it is possible to more accurately determine whether or not the image data of all the originals can be stored in the USB memory. can get.

FIG. 19 is a functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the third embodiment.
In FIG. 19, the multifunction device 1 includes an operation panel control unit 20, an image reading unit 21, an image data storage unit 22, a data format conversion unit 23, a USB memory 24, an empty capacity detection unit 25, a total page number storage unit 26, an image area. A detection unit 27, a page data amount calculation unit 28, a total data amount calculation unit 29, a data size comparison unit 30, a recommended setting calculation unit 31, a compressed data amount inspection unit 32, a current page number counter 33, a prediction target page selection unit 34, The function block includes a predicted page number storage unit 35 and a predicted page data amount storage unit 36.

The configuration of the image reading apparatus according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment except that the current page number counter 33, the prediction target page selection unit 34, the predicted page number storage unit 35, and the predicted page data amount storage unit. 36 is added.
Further, due to the above configuration, the operations of the image reading unit 21 and the total data amount calculating unit 29 are different from those of the second embodiment. Note that parts similar to those of the second embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

The current page number counter 33 is a counter storage area for storing the number of pages currently being processed in order to control feeding of a plurality of documents from the ADF 3, and uses a part of the storage unit 11.
The prediction target page selection unit 34 is a selection unit that selects, based on a predetermined rule, a page whose page data amount is to be predicted for a plurality of documents fed from the ADF 3.

The predicted page number storage unit 35 is a storage area in which the number of pages (page number) selected by the prediction target page selection unit 34 is stored. Since there are a plurality of pages to be selected, it is assumed that an area of the storage unit 11 is secured so that a plurality of pages can be stored.
The predicted page data amount storage unit 36 is an area of the storage unit 11 in which the page data amount predicted in association with the page for which the page data amount is predicted is stored.

The image reading unit 21 has a control function of performing not only a scanning operation for reading image data of a document placed on the ADF 3 but also an operation for separating and conveying the documents one by one without reading the image data. Shall.
The total data amount calculation unit 29 can acquire the number of pages selected from the predicted page number storage unit 35 and the predicted page data amount storage unit 36 and the predicted page data amount.

The operation of the MFP 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.
The operation of the third embodiment is the same as the flowchart of the size prediction process in the second embodiment of FIG. 18 described in the second embodiment, but the flowchart of the size prediction process in the third embodiment of FIG. FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13 described in the first embodiment is omitted, and the size prediction process in the third embodiment of FIG. 22 is shown. Only the flowchart will be described in accordance with steps represented by S in the figure.

S801: The operation panel control unit 20 displays a size prediction screen for performing an operation of predicting the total image data amount on the operation panel 4.
The size prediction screen displayed by the operation panel control unit 20 is a size prediction screen 200 as shown in FIG. 20, for example, along with the free space of the USB memory 24, “The current setting predicts the image size of the multiple page scan. , Etc., and guidance words such as “Please enter the number of documents.” Are displayed to guide the input of the number of all documents to be read.

S802: When the size prediction screen is displayed, the operation panel control unit 20 receives an input of the total number of pages as the number of all originals to be read, and stores the input total number of pages in the total page number storage unit 26.
For example, as shown in FIG. 20, the operation panel control unit 20 causes the operator to input the total number of originals for which the total image data amount is to be predicted from the numeric keypad of the operation panel 4, and the input number of total originals is calculated. The page number 201 is stored in the total page number storage unit 26. FIG. 20 shows an example in which the total number of pages 201 of the document is input as 100 sheets.

S803: When the total number of pages is input, the operation panel control unit 20 waits for the prediction start button 203 for starting the operation of predicting the total image data amount to be pressed.
For example, as shown in FIG. 20, the operation panel control unit 20 displays a guidance word 202 such as “Please set all documents on the ADF” and “starts an operation for predicting the total image data amount”. A “prediction start” button 203 and a “return” button 204 for canceling the size prediction process are displayed, and pressing of the “prediction start” button 203 is detected by the touch panel. If the “return” button 204 is pressed, the size prediction process is terminated and the setting screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.

S804: Upon detecting that the “prediction start” button is pressed, the control unit 10 initializes the current page number counter 33 to “0”.
S805: The control unit 10 adds “1” to the current page number counter 33.
S806: The control unit 10 compares the current page number counter 33 with the total page number stored in the total page number storage unit 26, and determines whether or not the current page number counter 33 exceeds the total pages. As a result of the determination, if it is determined that it has exceeded, the process proceeds to S816, and if it is determined that it has not exceeded, the process proceeds to S807.

S807: The prediction target page selection unit 34 determines whether or not the current page counted by the current page number counter 33 is a prediction target page selected based on a predetermined criterion.
Note that, as the pages to be predicted, for example, three pages are randomly selected from the total number of input pages.

S808: As a result of the determination in S807, if it is determined that the current page is a prediction target page, the process proceeds to S810. If it is determined that the current page is not a prediction target page, the process proceeds to S809.
S809: The image reading unit 21 feeds one original from the ADF 3, conveys and discharges the original without reading the image data, and the process proceeds to S805.

S810: The prediction target page selection unit 34 stores the current page number (page number) being processed in the predicted page number storage unit 35.
S811: The image reading unit 21 performs a scanning operation of reading a document placed on the ADF 3, and stores image data of the read document in the image data storage unit 22.
S812: When image data of a document is stored in the image data storage unit 22, the image region detection unit 27 performs image region detection processing for extracting an image region from the image data. The image region detection process is as described above.

S813: The compressed data amount inspection unit 32 calls the data format conversion unit 23, compresses and inspects the image data of the image area extracted by the image region detection unit 27, and outputs the compressed data amount.
For example, as shown in FIG. 17A, the compressed data amount inspection unit 32 extracts image data line by line from the image area 171 extracted by the image area detection unit 27, and performs compression processing using the data format conversion unit 23. And calculate the amount of data when compressed. The compression process at this time is, for example, JPEG compression.

In the case of the PDF file format as an example of the image format, the paper size, the actual image data 172 (JPEG image) shown in FIG. 17B, and its position information are stored in the file as data.
S814: The page data amount calculation unit 28 sets the page data amount output from the compressed data amount inspection unit 32 as the predicted page data amount of one original.

S815: The page data amount calculation unit 28 stores the predicted page data amount in the predicted page data amount storage unit 36 in association with the current number of pages (page number), and the process proceeds to S805 to proceed to the next document. Perform the process.
Note that the operation panel control unit 20 displays a screen in the size prediction mode process. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, the size prediction mode processing screen 210 has a wording 211 “sampled page 10/100. Processing completed”, a wording 212 “sampled page 30/100. Processing completed”, “ It is assumed that the wording 213 “sampled on page 50/100.

S816: On the other hand, if it is determined in S806 that all the documents have been processed, the total data amount calculation unit 29 associates the predicted page data amount storage unit 36 with the selected number of pages (page number). An average page data amount per page is calculated from the stored page data amount.
S817: The total data amount calculation unit 29 multiplies the calculated average page data amount by the total page number extracted from the total page number storage unit 26 (average page data amount × total page number), and obtains a predicted value of the total data amount. calculate.

S818: The data size comparison unit 30 compares the calculated total data amount with the free capacity of the USB memory 24 detected by the free capacity detection unit 25.
S819: As a result of the comparison, if the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is greater than or equal to the total data amount, “storable” is output, whereas if the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is less than the total data amount, “storage over” is output. The prediction process is terminated.

  As described above, in the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, a plurality of documents are selected from the entire document, and the predicted value of the total amount of image data is set. Since the calculation is performed, it is possible to determine whether or not the image data of all the originals can be stored in the USB memory with higher accuracy.

FIG. 23 is a functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the fourth embodiment.
In FIG. 23, the multifunction device 1 includes an operation panel control unit 20, an image reading unit 21, an image data storage unit 22, a data format conversion unit 23, a USB memory 24, an empty capacity detection unit 25, a page data amount calculation unit 28, and total data. The function block includes an amount calculation unit 29, a data size comparison unit 30, a recommended setting calculation unit 31, a predicted page data amount storage unit 36, and an image type analysis processing unit 37.

In the configuration of the image reading apparatus in the fourth embodiment, a predicted page data amount storage unit 36 and an image type analysis processing unit 37 are added to the configuration of the first embodiment, and the total page number storage unit 26 and the compressed data amount. The inspection unit 32 is omitted.
Further, due to the above configuration, the operations of the image reading unit 21 and the total data amount calculating unit 29 are different from those of the first embodiment. Note that parts similar to those of the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

The predicted page data amount storage unit 36 is an area of the storage unit 11 in which the page data amount predicted in association with the page for which the page data amount is predicted is stored.
The total data amount calculation unit 29 can acquire the predicted page data amount from the predicted page data amount storage unit 36.
The image type analysis processing unit 37 analyzes the image data of the document read by the scanner 2, and whether the content of the document is composed only of characters, is composed only of photographs, or is composed of both characters and photographs. This is an image processing unit that determines the image type of the image. Note that the processing for analyzing the image data uses a known technique.

The operation of the MFP 1 having the above-described configuration will be described.
The operation of the fourth embodiment is the same as the flowchart of the size prediction process in the first embodiment of FIG. 10 described in the first embodiment, but the flowchart of the size prediction process in the fourth embodiment of FIG. FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13 described in the first embodiment is omitted, and the size prediction process in the fourth embodiment of FIG. 24 is shown. Only the flowchart will be described in accordance with steps represented by S in the figure.

S901: The operation panel control unit 20 displays a size prediction screen for performing an operation of predicting the total image data amount on the operation panel 4.
The size prediction screen displayed by the operation panel control unit 20 displays, for example, a guidance message such as “Predict the image size of the multiple page scan with the current settings” together with the free space of the USB memory 24.

S902: The operation panel control unit 20 waits for a prediction start button for starting an operation for predicting the total image data amount to be pressed.
The operation panel control unit 20 displays a guidance message such as “Please set all documents in the ADF” and a “prediction start” button for starting an operation for predicting the total image data amount and size prediction. A “return” button for canceling the process is displayed, and pressing of the “prediction start” button is detected by the touch panel. If the “return” button is pressed, the size prediction process is terminated and the setting screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.

S903: The image reading unit 21 determines whether or not a document exists in the ADF 3 by a detection unit such as a sensor (not shown). If it is determined that there is a document, the process proceeds to S904. Assuming that the processing has been completed, the process proceeds to S910.
S904: The image reading unit 21 performs a scanning operation for reading a document placed on the ADF 3, and stores the image data of the read document in the image data storage unit 22.

S905: When the image data of the document is stored in the image data storage unit 22, the image region detection unit 27 performs image region detection processing for extracting an image region from the image data. The image region detection process is as described above.
S906: The image type analysis processing unit 37 analyzes the image data of the image area extracted by the image area detection unit 27 and determines the image type.

S907: Similar to S306 in FIG. 10, the page data amount calculation unit 28 outputs the upper left coordinates (x1, y1) and lower right coordinates (x2, y2), color / monochrome of the image area output from the image area detection unit 27. And the image data amount (uncompressed) of the image area extracted from the number of gradations is calculated, and the calculated image data amount is used as the predicted page data amount of one original.
S908: The page data amount calculation unit 28 multiplies the predicted uncompressed page data amount by the compression ratio corresponding to the image type determined in S906 (page data amount × compression ratio), and calculates the page data amount after compression. Predict.

For example, as shown in FIG. 25, the compression ratio is 10% when the content of the document is composed only of characters, and 40% when the content of the document is composed only of photographs, and is composed of both characters and photographs. In the case, 20%.
S909: The page data amount calculation unit 28 associates the predicted page data amount with the current page number (page number) and stores it in the predicted page data amount storage unit 36. The process proceeds to S903, and the next document Perform the process.

S910: On the other hand, if it is determined in S903 that all the documents have been processed, the total data amount calculation unit 29 adds up the page data amounts stored in the predicted page data amount storage unit 36 to obtain the total data amount. Calculate the predicted value.
S911: The data size comparison unit 30 compares the calculated total data amount with the free capacity of the USB memory 24 detected by the free capacity detection unit 25.

S912: As a result of the comparison, when the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is equal to or larger than the total data amount, “storable” is output, whereas when the free capacity of the USB memory 24 is less than the total data amount, “storage over” is output, The prediction process is terminated.
By performing pre-scanning on all the originals to be read in this way and calculating the predicted value of the total data amount of the image data, the total data amount can be predicted with higher accuracy.

Also, by determining the image type whether the content of the document is composed of characters, photos, or characters and photos, it is possible to determine the image type in a shorter processing time than when compressing the image. .
Note that, as in the third embodiment, a plurality of originals may be selected from the entire originals to be read, and the predicted value of the total amount of image data may be calculated. In this way, the image type can be determined in a shorter processing time than when the image is compressed.

As described above, in the fourth embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, pre-scanning is performed on all originals to be read to calculate the predicted value of the total amount of image data. Thus, it is possible to predict the total data amount with higher accuracy.
In addition, the image type can be determined in a shorter processing time than the case of compressing the image by determining the image type whether the content of the document is composed of characters, photos, or characters and photos. The effect that the processing time for predicting the total amount of image data can be shortened is obtained.

Therefore, it is possible to provide an image reading apparatus in which prediction accuracy and convenience are harmonized.
In each of the embodiments described above, the external storage area has been described as a USB memory. However, the present invention is not limited to a USB memory, and various types of commercially available memory cards and disks may be used.

Functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the first embodiment 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image reading apparatus according to a first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram showing a control system of an image reading apparatus in a first embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the setting screen in the first embodiment Explanatory drawing of the size prediction mode screen in 1st Example Explanatory drawing of the size prediction result screen in 1st Example Explanatory drawing of the document area detection result in the first embodiment Flowchart showing main processing in the first embodiment Flowchart showing setting mode processing in the first embodiment Flowchart showing size prediction processing in the first embodiment Flowchart showing image area detection processing in the first embodiment The flowchart which shows the recommended setting calculation process in a 1st Example. Flowchart showing scan processing in the first embodiment Explanatory drawing of the setting table in 1st Example Functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the second embodiment Explanatory drawing of the size prediction mode screen in 2nd Example Explanatory drawing of document image area detection and compressed data amount inspection in the second embodiment Flowchart showing size prediction processing in the second embodiment Functional block diagram of the image reading apparatus in the third embodiment Explanatory drawing of the size prediction mode screen in 3rd Example Explanatory drawing of the screen during size prediction mode processing in the third embodiment Flowchart showing size prediction processing in the third embodiment Functional block diagram of an image reading apparatus in the fourth embodiment Flowchart showing size prediction processing in the fourth embodiment Explanatory drawing of the table which shows the compression ratio with respect to the uncompressed size in a 4th Example.

Explanation of symbols

1 MFP 2 Scanner 3 ADF
4 Operation Panel 5 Printer 6 Paper Tray 7 USB Interface 10 Control Unit 11 Storage Unit 12 Network Interface 13 Image Processing ASIC
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 14 Data bus 20 Operation panel control part 21 Image reading part 22 Image data storage part 23 Data format conversion part 24 USB memory 25 Empty capacity detection part 26 Total page number storage part 27 Image area detection part 28 Page data amount calculation part 29 Total data Amount calculation unit 30 Data size comparison unit 31 Recommended setting calculation unit 32 Compressed data amount inspection unit 33 Current page number counter 34 Prediction target page selection unit 35 Predicted page number storage unit 36 Predicted page data amount storage unit 37 Image type analysis process Part

Claims (9)

In an image reading apparatus that reads an image of a plurality of documents,
An image reading unit for reading an image of a document;
A storage device for storing an image read by the image reading unit;
An empty capacity detector for detecting an empty capacity of the storage device;
A total data amount calculation unit that reads an image of a document according to a predetermined reading condition and calculates a predicted value of the total image data amount of all the documents based on the image data of the document;
The free space of the storage device detected by the free space detector is compared with the predicted value of the total image data amount calculated by the total data amount calculator, and it is determined that the predicted value exceeds the free space. The image reading apparatus is characterized in that the image reading unit reads images of all originals in accordance with reading conditions in which image quality is lower than the predetermined reading conditions. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1.
The reading condition in which the image quality is lowered from the predetermined reading condition is a condition obtained by changing any one or more of resolution, number of gradations, color or monochrome mode, and file format. Reader. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1 or 2,
An image reading apparatus, wherein the document read under the predetermined reading condition is a document in which a reading area is defined. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1 or 2,
The total data amount calculation unit includes an image area detection unit that detects an image area in which characters, graphics, or photographs of an image of a read document exist. The image reading apparatus according to claim 4.
An image selection unit for selecting image data of a part of a plurality of documents is provided,
The image reading apparatus, wherein the image area detection unit detects an image area from image data of a document selected by the image selection unit. The image reading apparatus according to claim 4 or 5,
The total data amount calculation unit compresses the image area to calculate a predicted value of the total image data amount of all documents. The image reading apparatus according to claim 4 or 5,
The total data amount calculation unit determines an image type from the image area and calculates a predicted value of a total image data amount of all originals. The image reading apparatus according to claim 7.
The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image type is a type of an image composed of a character, a photo, or both a character and a photo. The image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
An image reading apparatus, wherein the storage device is an external storage device.

Images