JP2017069782A - Image processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing system that is able to output two images in original size and is able to adjust the size of a margin provided between the two images.SOLUTION: In an image processing system, a processing section performs: first reading processing in which a first image 51A is read by a reading section; second reading processing in which a second image 51B is read by the reading section; image formation processing in which the first image 51A read in the first reading processing and the second image 51B read in the second reading processing are formed in original size in an image formation area for forming images; and margin size setting processing in which the size of a margin provided between the first image 51A and the second image 51B is set to one of a plurality of sizes. In the image processing processing, the margin of a size set in the margin size setting processing is provided between the first image and the second image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus.

  A technique has been proposed in which images corresponding to the front and back surfaces of a license are read and the two images are printed on a single sheet (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-100102 A

  However, in the case of the technique described in Patent Document 1, the above-described two images are arranged at predetermined positions in one sheet. Therefore, for example, even if there is a situation where two images are desired to be arranged closer or a situation where two images are desired to be arranged further away, such a layout change cannot be performed.

  In addition, as a technique for storing two images in a narrower range, a method of outputting an image with an enlargement ratio set to less than 100% is also known, as in a so-called reduced copy, The two images could not be output at full size.

  In view of the above circumstances, it is desirable to provide an image processing apparatus that can output two images in full size and can adjust the size of the margin secured between the two images.

  An image processing apparatus described below includes a support unit that can support an object to be read, a reading unit that can read an image from an object to be read supported by the support unit, and image data representing an image read by the reading unit. A processing unit capable of performing data processing relating to the first processing, the processing unit reads a first image by the reading unit, a second reading process to read the second image by the reading unit, and an image is formed An image forming process for forming the first image read by the first reading process and the second image read by the second reading process in a full size in the image forming area which is an area to be processed; It is possible to execute a margin size setting process in which the size of the margin provided between the first image and the second image is set to one of a plurality of sizes. Ri, the image forming processing, based on the size of the margin set by the margin size setting process, providing a margin of the size between the first and second images.

In this image processing apparatus, the above-described image forming area is an area where an image is formed. For example, in the case of an image processing apparatus capable of forming an image on a recording medium (for example, a paper medium), the recording target is recorded. The recording surface of the medium (for example, the paper surface of a paper medium) corresponds to the image forming area. Alternatively, an electronic document (a computer-generated document that can be displayed or printed) or an electronic document (a document that can be displayed or printed by digitizing a paper document by reading it with an image scanner or the like) can be created. In the case of an image processing apparatus, an area corresponding to a paper surface included in an electronic document or an electronic document corresponds to an image forming area. Such an electronic document or digitized document is, for example, an electronic document data format such as pdf (Portable Document Format), or an image data format such as TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) or JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), etc. It can be created in various known data formats.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, when the processing unit executes the image forming process, the first image read by the first reading process and the second reading process are included in the image forming area. The second image read by is formed in full size.

  In addition, when the processing unit executes the margin size setting process, the size of the margin provided between the first image and the second image is set to one of a plurality of sizes. In the image forming process, a margin of the size is provided between the first image and the second image based on the size of the margin set by the margin size setting process.

  Therefore, unlike the technique in which the size of the margin cannot be changed or the technique in which the entire size including the first image, the second image, and the margin is enlarged / reduced, the margin is preferably used in the image forming area. The first image and the second image can be formed in full size while adjusting to the size. Therefore, for example, even if the size of the first image and the second image is not changed, the entire image including the first image, the second image, and the margin can be adjusted by adjusting the size of the margin. It is also possible to fit inside. Further, for example, a more suitable margin size can be set according to the purpose of use and the first image and the second image can be arranged at desired positions in the image forming area.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a multifunction machine. FIG. 1B is a plan view showing a support portion and the like. FIG. 2A is an explanatory diagram illustrating the surface of an ID card. FIG. 2B is an explanatory diagram illustrating the back side of the ID card. FIG. 2C is an explanatory diagram illustrating a printed material (part 1) printed by the ID copy function. FIG. 2D is an explanatory view illustrating a printed matter (part 2) printed by the ID copy function. FIG. 3A is an explanatory diagram showing a reading range when reading the surface of the card. FIG. 3B is an explanatory diagram showing a reading range when the back side of the card is read. FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram showing the position and size of each image in the X direction when the image is arranged in the image formation region divided into two. FIG. 4B is an explanatory diagram showing the position and size of each image in the Y direction when the image is arranged in the image formation region divided into two. FIG. 5A shows the position and size of each image in the Y direction in the case where images are arranged in the first region from the top in the drawing and the second region from the top in the drawing in the image forming region divided into three. It is explanatory drawing shown. FIG. 5B shows the position and size of each image in the Y direction in the case where images are arranged in the first region from the top in the drawing and the third region from the top in the drawing in the image forming region divided into three. It is explanatory drawing shown. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view showing the positions and dimensions in the Y direction of the four locations where the image can be arranged in the image formation region divided into four. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the position and size of each image in the Y direction when the amount of margin between images in the image forming region divided into two is a predetermined value. FIG. 8A is a flowchart of the ID copy process. FIG. 8B is a flowchart of the setting process. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the reading process. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the image forming process.

Next, the above-described image processing apparatus will be described with reference to exemplary embodiments.
[Configuration of image processing apparatus]
As shown in FIG. 1A, the multifunction machine 1 (corresponding to an example of an image processing apparatus in this specification) includes a processing unit 11, a reading unit 12, an image forming unit 13, an auxiliary storage unit 14, and an operation unit. 15, a display unit 16, a communication unit 17, and the like. The processing unit 11 includes a well-known CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like, and controls each unit of the multifunction device 1 by the CPU executing various processes according to programs stored in the ROM and RAM. The reading unit 12 optically reads an image of a reading object and outputs image data representing the read image.

  The image forming unit 13 forms an image on a recording medium by an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method. The auxiliary storage unit 14 is configured by a storage device (for example, a flash memory or a hard disk device) having a larger capacity than the RAM provided in the processing unit 11. The operation unit 15 is configured by a touch panel or the like, and is operated by the user when the user gives various commands to the multifunction device 1.

  The display unit 16 is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays various information provided from the multifunction device 1 to the user. When the operation unit 15 employs a touch panel, the touch panel is disposed so as to overlap the display unit 16, and an image (for example, an image of a switch or a button) indicating an operation location of the touch panel is displayed on the display unit. 16 is displayed. The communication unit 17 includes a communication interface device compatible with a wireless LAN and a communication interface device compatible with a wired LAN.

  In addition, the multifunction machine 1 includes a flat bed section 20 as shown in FIG. A platen 21 (corresponding to an example of a support portion in this specification) is provided on the upper surface of the flat bed portion 20. The platen 21 is made of a colorless and transparent plate material (for example, a glass plate, an acrylic plate, etc.). The upper surface of the platen 21 is used as a support surface for supporting the reading object.

  The reading unit 12 includes an image sensor 23, a stepping motor 25, a gear mechanism 27, a toothed belt 29, a carriage 31, and the like. The image sensor 23 is a one-dimensional image sensor having a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in one direction. In the present embodiment, a contact image sensor (CIS) is employed. The stepping motor 25, the gear mechanism 27, the toothed belt 29, and the carriage 31 constitute a drive mechanism that reciprocates the image sensor 23. This drive mechanism reciprocates the image sensor 23 in the sub-scanning direction along the platen 21 with the light receiving element arrangement direction in the image sensor 23 as the main scanning direction and the direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction as the sub-scanning direction.

  More specifically, the stepping motor 25 drives the toothed belt 29 via the gear mechanism 27. The toothed belt 29 is an endless belt extending in the sub-scanning direction. A carriage 31 is connected to the toothed belt 29. The carriage 31 is supported by a guide portion 33 formed in an axial shape or rail shape extending in the sub-scanning direction.

  When the toothed belt 29 is driven to circulate in the forward direction (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 1B), the carriage 31 moves forward along the guide portion 33 in the sub-scanning direction (in FIG. 1B). Move from left to right at When the toothed belt 29 is driven to circulate in the reverse direction (clockwise direction in FIG. 1B), the carriage 31 moves backward in the sub-scanning direction along the guide portion 33 (in FIG. 1B). Move from right to left.) The image sensor 23 is mounted on the carriage 31 and moves with the carriage 31 in the sub-scanning direction.

A top cover 35 is provided around the platen 21. The top cover 35 is provided with a mark 37 indicating the origin position. When a rectangular document is placed on the platen 21, the document can be positioned by aligning the corner of the document with the corner marked 37 on the platen 21. The top cover 35 is also engraved with a scale for indicating the standard of the reading size (A4, LTR, B5JIS, etc.). In the present embodiment, the upper left corner of the platen 21 in FIG. 1B is the origin position, but another position may be the origin position, for example, the lower right corner may be the origin position.

[Overview of ID copy function]
Next, the ID copy function provided in the multifunction device 1 will be described.
The ID copy function reads images on two surfaces of various ID cards, and generates an image in which the two images are arranged in full size in a single image forming area. The generated image is a function of outputting (image forming) a printout or a file that can be printed or displayed. Examples of various ID cards that are assumed to be processed by the ID copy function include various cards that can be used as an automobile driver's license, health insurance card, passport, and other identification cards. However, even with objects other than these, it is possible to execute image reading and image formation using the ID copy function.

  In addition, the two surfaces of the ID card are assumed to be the front and back surfaces of the card. However, in the case of an identification card having a plurality of pages, it is possible to arbitrarily select two faces to be processed by the ID copy function. Alternatively, the surface of each of the two cards can be targeted.

  Hereinafter, the description will be continued assuming the ID card 41 illustrated in FIGS. 2 (A) and 2 (B). The ID card 41 exemplified here is assumed to include a face photograph on one side. Therefore, in the following description, for convenience, the surface having the face photograph is referred to as the front surface 41A (see FIG. 1A), and the surface on the back side is referred to as the back surface 41B (see FIG. 1B). I will call it.

  The ID card 41 is a card conforming to “ID-1” defined in “ISO / IEC 7810”, and the card size is defined as 85.60 × 53.98 mm. In the case of the present embodiment, the ID copy function of the multifunction device 1 is intended for reading an ID card that conforms to “ID-1”. As will be described in detail later, an image reading range is set in consideration of the card size. The

  However, whether or not the size of the image reading range is a size corresponding to the card size conforming to “ID-1” is arbitrary, and the size of the image reading range is a size corresponding to another card size. May be. For example, in the above-mentioned “ISO / IEC 7810”, sizes such as “ID-2 (105 mm × 74 mm)” and “ID-3 (125 mm × 88 mm)” are defined in addition to “ID-1”. The image reading range may be set in consideration of the size. Or you may respond to sizes other than these sizes. In addition, when the use of each of a plurality of card sizes is assumed in this way, the user may arbitrarily select which of the plurality of card sizes is desired to be used.

  When the copy image of the ID card 41 is printed out using the ID copy function, as illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D, the recording medium 50 (for example, a cut sheet) is provided on one side. An image 51A on the front surface 41A and an image 51B on the back surface 41B of the ID card 41 are printed out in full size. As will be described in detail later, the printed material illustrated in FIG. 2C and the printed material illustrated in FIG. 2D have different positions (layouts) where the two images 51A and 51B are arranged. Whether to use the layout is configured so that the user can arbitrarily select when using the ID copy function in the multi-function device 1.

  In the case of the printed material illustrated in FIG. 2C, one surface of the recording medium 50 is divided into two equal parts at the position indicated by the alternate long and short dash line, and an image 51A is formed at the center of one of the two divided regions. An image 51B is formed at the center of the other region. In the case of the printed material illustrated in FIG. 2D, one surface of the recording medium 50 is equally divided into three at the position indicated by the alternate long and short dash line, and the center of the first region from the top among the three divided regions. An image 51A is formed at the center of the second region from the top.

  Further, as will be described in detail later, the multifunction device 1 can also form an image with a layout other than the layouts illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D. However, regardless of which layout is selected, the image 51A and the image 51B are formed (printed) in full size. In other words, the size of the margin between the image 51A and the image 51B and the size of the margin around the image 51A and the image 51B are the position and size of the image 51A and the image 51B and the size of the recording medium 50. It will fluctuate according to.

  When using the ID copy function, the image on the front surface 41A of the ID card 41 is read first, and then the image on the back surface 41B of the ID card 41 is read. When reading the image of the surface 41A of the ID card 41, as shown in FIG. 3A, the corner of the ID card 41 is aligned with the corner of the platen 21 where the mark 37 is added. Perform positioning. At this time, the platen 21 is brought into contact with the front surface 41A of the ID card 41 (that is, the ID card 41 seen from the user is oriented so that the back surface 41B can be seen). Further, a guidance function such as notifying the user by the display unit 16 may be provided so that the corner of the ID card 41 is aligned with the corner where the mark 37 is positioned so that the vertical direction of the ID card 41 is the correct direction. Good. In this state, the multi-function device 1 recognizes the range RM1 for the main scanning direction and the range RS1 for the sub-scanning direction as the reading range based on the prior setting, and executes the reading process. Note that the range RM1 and the range RS1 correspond to the lengths of the regions indicated by broken lines in FIG.

  Although details of the range RM1 and the range RS1 will be described later, the size of the range RM1 is a size obtained by adding the margin length of an area that becomes a margin between images to the card length of the ID card 41. . Further, the range RS1 is a size obtained by adding dimensions for giving a slight margin to the card width of the ID card 41. The dimensions for giving a slight margin are arbitrary. If there is no such margin, it may be set to “0 mm”, or “several mm (for example, 5 mm) when reading a few mm more than the card size. )"And it is sufficient. Moreover, it may be comprised so that a user can set such a dimension arbitrarily.

  Subsequently, when reading the image of the back surface 41B of the ID card 41, as shown in FIG. 3B, by aligning the corner of the ID card 41 with the corner marked 37 on the platen 21, The ID card 41 is positioned. At this time, the back surface 41B of the ID card 41 is brought into contact with the platen 21 (that is, the orientation of the ID card 41 that can be seen by the user is such that the front surface 41A can be seen). In this state, the multi-function device 1 recognizes the range RM2 for the main scanning direction and the range RS1 for the sub-scanning direction as the reading range based on the prior setting, and executes the reading process.

  Although details of the range RM2 and the range RS1 will be described later, the size of the range RM2 is a size obtained by adding a dimension for giving a slight margin to the card length of the ID card 41. Further, the range RS1 is a size obtained by adding dimensions for giving a slight margin to the card width of the ID card 41. As described above, the dimension for giving a slight margin may be “0 mm” or “several mm”. Moreover, it may be comprised so that a user can set such a dimension arbitrarily.

  When the two images 51A and 51B are formed on the recording medium 50, an image obtained by reading the above-mentioned range of RM1 × RS1 (hereinafter also referred to as image A) and the above-described RM2 × RS1. Based on the image obtained by reading the range (hereinafter also referred to as image B), an image (hereinafter also referred to as image C) configured by arranging these images A and B without gaps is generated. Is done. An image buffer capable of storing each of the above-described image A, image B, and image C is secured in the RAM provided in the processing unit 11, and the image C is generated on the image buffer. The image C is printed out on the recording medium 50, for example.

  At this time, the margin secured between the image 51A and the image 51B in the recording medium 50 is a margin length corresponding to the above-described range RM1. Further, the margins secured around the images 51A and 51B are determined according to the positions and sizes of the images 51A and 51B and the size of the recording medium 50. Hereinafter, these matters will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 (A) and 4 (B).

  First, in the example shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, one surface of the recording medium 50 is divided into two equal parts, and an image 51A is formed at the center of one of the two divided areas. In this example, the image 51B is formed in the center of the other region. In forming such an image, first, the range RM1, RM2, RS1 is determined at the stage of reading the image. These ranges RM1, RM2, and RS1 are calculated based on the card width CX1 and the card length CY1.

  Specifically, the range RS1 of the reading area is given a slight margin with respect to the card width CX1 (a margin amount that can be arbitrarily specified by the user; here, the margin amount is 5 mm). = CX1 + the margin is 5 mm. Further, the reading area range RM2 has a slight margin with respect to the card length CY1 (a margin that can be arbitrarily specified by the user; here, a margin amount of 5 mm), and the range RM2 = CY1 + margin. The amount is 5 mm.

  On the other hand, the range RM1 is a value corresponding to the margin length provided between the image 51A and the image 51B, and this margin length is determined according to the paper length PY1 and the card length CY1. Specifically, first, the paper length PY1 is determined according to the user setting or the detection result of the paper size actually used. For example, when the user selects “A4” as the output paper, or when it is detected that the output paper set in the MFP 1 is “A4”, the paper length PY1 is “297 mm”. Determined. Further, the card length CY1 is determined to be “53.98 mm” in the present embodiment because it is “ID-1” compliant.

  Based on these values, each of the bisected area lengths AY1 is AY1 = PY1 / 2, and in each of the bisected areas, the margin length SY1 secured above and below each of the images 51A and 51B is SY1 = (AY1-CY1) / 2 = (PY1 / 2-CY1) / 2. Between the image 51A and the image 51B, as shown in FIG. 4B, there are two regions having the margin length SY1 as described above. Therefore, the range RM1 = CY1 + SY1 × 2 = CY1 + (PY1 / 2−CY1) / 2 × 2 is determined based on the two margin lengths SY1 × 2 and the card length CY1.

  When the ranges RS1, RM1, and RM2 are determined as described above, the reading range based on the origin position (the corner of the platen 21) is determined, and the image A including the image 51A and the margin between the images, and the image Each of the images B including 51B can be read.

On the other hand, after the images A and B are read as described above, in the stage of forming the images 51A and 51B on the recording medium 50, the horizontal and vertical printing positions are determined. First, as for the printing position in the horizontal direction, as shown in FIG. 4A, the paper width PX1 and the card width CX
Based on 1, the left and right margin width SX1 = (PX1-CX1) / 2 is calculated.

  Among these, the paper width PX1 is determined according to the user setting or the detection result of the paper size actually used. For example, when the user selects “A4” as the output paper, or when the output paper set in the multifunction device 1 is detected as “A4”, the paper width PX1 is “210 mm”. Determined. Further, the card width CX1 is determined to be “85.60 mm” in the present embodiment because it conforms to “ID-1”. Therefore, the left and right margin width SX1 is determined as SX1 = (210−85.60) / 2 mm = 62.2 mm. Note that the reading area range RS1 has a slight margin (here, a margin of 5 mm) with respect to the card width CX1, and in this case, the left margin width is SX1- margin 5 mm. The right margin width is adjusted to SX1.

  As for the printing position in the vertical direction, as shown in FIG. 4B, based on the paper length PY1 and the card length CY1, the margin length SY1 = (PY1 / 2−CY1) / 2 is determined. Among these, the paper length PY1 is determined according to the user setting or the detection result of the paper size actually used. For example, when the user selects “A4” as the output paper, or when it is detected that the output paper set in the MFP 1 is “A4”, the paper length PY1 is “297 mm”. Determined. Further, the card length CY1 is determined to be “53.98 mm” in the present embodiment because it is “ID-1” compliant. The margin length SY1 is determined as SY1 = (297−53.98) / 2 mm = 1121.51 mm. Note that the reading area range RM2 has a slight margin (here, a margin of 5 mm) with respect to the card length CY1, and in this case, the margin length on the image 51A is SY1, The margin length under the image 51B is adjusted to SY1−the margin of 5 mm.

  As described above, when the ID copy function is used in the multi function device 1, the reading ranges RM1, RM2, and RS1 and the formation positions of the images 51A and 51B on the recording medium 50 are set by the method described above. Will be.

  Incidentally, the example shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B is an example in which the image forming area is divided into two equal parts, and the images 51A and 51B are formed at the center of each divided area. An image can also be formed on the recording medium 50 with a layout other than such a layout. The user can arbitrarily select the layout to be used as described above.

  For example, as in the example shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the image forming area can be divided into three equal parts, and the images 51A and 51B can be formed at the centers of the divided areas. FIG. 5A shows an example in which images are arranged in the first area from the top and the second area from the top in the image formation area divided into three. FIG. 5B shows an example in which images are arranged in the first region from the top in the drawing and the third region from the top in the drawing in the three-divided image forming region. Although illustration is omitted, in the three-divided image forming region, an image can be arranged in the second region from the top in the drawing and the third region from the top in the drawing. In any of these cases, the size AY2 = PY1 / 3 obtained by dividing the paper length PY1 into three equal parts, or the margin length SY2 = (AY2-CY1) / by the same method as when the image forming area is divided into two equal parts. 2 can be obtained and the reading range RM4 = CY1 + SY2 + SY2, the range RM5 = CY1 + SY2 + AY2 + SY2, or the formation positions of the images 51A and 51B on the recording medium 50 can be calculated and determined.

Further, for example, as in the example shown in FIG. 6, the image forming area can be divided into four equal parts, and an image can be formed at locations 561, 562, 563, and 564 that are the centers of the divided areas. Even in this case, the dimension AY3 = PY1 / 4 obtained by dividing the paper length PY1 into four equal parts, the margin length SY3 = (AY3-CY1) / 2, etc. are obtained in the same manner as when the image forming area is divided into two equal parts. By combining these, the reading range and the image forming position on the recording medium 50 can be calculated and determined.

  The above example is an example in which A4 paper is assumed as the recording medium 50, and the size of the ID card 41 is assumed to conform to “ID-1”. Therefore, in order to copy the ID card 41 in full size and to divide the recording medium 50 into n equal parts in one direction (where n is an integer of 2 or more), the upper limit is four equal parts. However, as the recording medium 50, a paper having a size larger than that of the A4 paper can be selected. Further, if the size of the ID card 41 is smaller than “ID-1” compliant, even when A4 paper is selected as the recording medium 50, it is possible to divide into five or more equal parts.

  As described above, when the image forming area is divided into n equal parts (where n is an integer of 2 or more) and the images 51A and 51B are formed at the center of the divided areas, the recording medium 50 is folded in half, in three, and in four. When folding, the images 51A and 51B do not overlap with the folds, which is convenient. For example, in the case where the recording medium 50 is folded in three and placed in an envelope, the image forming area is divided into three equal parts, and the images 51A and 51B are formed in the center of the divided areas. 51B can be prevented from being bent. In the multi function device 1, the number of folds can be selected or input as a setting item when using the ID copy function. In the process described later, the image forming area is divided into n equal parts according to the number of folds n.

  Further, each of the above examples is an example in which the image forming area is equally divided into n. However, in the multi function device 1, the size of the margin formed between the images 51A and 51B is calculated as a relative value with respect to the paper size. You can also set the margin size as an absolute value instead. Such an absolute value may be configured so that one of several absolute values prepared in advance may be selected, or may be configured so that the user can arbitrarily input the absolute value. Good.

  For example, the example shown in FIG. 7 is an example in which the margin size SY4 formed between the images 51A and 51B is set to a specific value regardless of the paper size of the recording medium 50. In this example, the margin size SY4 is narrower than the diameter of the imprint 58 so that the stamp 58 can be added at a position straddling between the images 51A and 51B. Thus, even when the margin size SY4 is determined to be a specific value, the reading range RM6 = CY1 + SY4 and the upper and lower margin lengths SY5 = (PY1− (CY1 + SY1 + CY1)) / 2 can be calculated and determined.

[ID copy processing]
Next, the ID copy processing executed in the multifunction machine 1 to realize the ID copy function as described above is based on the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9, and 10. FIG. I will explain. The ID copy process shown in FIG. 8A is performed when the input unit for instructing the start of execution of the ID copy function is performed on the operation unit 15 of the multifunction device 1. The CPU 11 is executed by the processing unit 11).

  When the ID copy process is started, the processing unit 11 first executes a setting process as shown in FIG. 8A (S1). The details of the setting process are as shown in FIG. That is, when the setting process is started, the processing unit 11 determines the content of the user input (S11), and executes a process according to the determination result.

Specifically, in S11, when the user input is an input for setting the paper size (S11: paper size), the processing unit 11 sets the paper size to be used in the subsequent processing based on the user input. Set as instructed (S12) and return to S11. In S11, when a user input for selecting the paper size is performed, a plurality of options (for example, A3, B4, A4, LTR, B5, etc.) regarding the paper size are displayed on the display unit 16. When any of these options is selected by user input on the operation unit 15, the process proceeds to S12. In S12, since any paper size is selected in S11, information indicating that such a paper size is selected is stored in the memory.

  In S11, when the user input is an input for setting a margin amount (S11: margin amount), the processing unit 11 determines the margin amount to be used in the subsequent processing as instructed by the user input. Set (S13) and return to S11. In S <b> 11, when a user input for selecting a margin amount is performed, a plurality of options regarding the paper size are displayed on the display unit 16. In the case of the present embodiment, three modes of “automatic”, “margin amount 1”, and “margin amount 2” can be selected as the margin amount.

  “Automatic” indicates that the image forming area is set according to the setting of the number of folds n, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, and 6. This is a mode of dividing into n equal parts. On the other hand, “margin amount 1” and “margin amount 2” are set as follows. As shown in FIG. 7, the margin size between the image 51A and the image 51B can be set to a predetermined size, or can be arbitrarily set by the user. It is a mode to make the size specified in For “margin amount 1” and “margin amount 2”, different margin sizes are set in advance, or two margin sizes arbitrarily designated by the user are set as “margin amount 1” and “margin amount 2”, respectively. It is configured to be memorable.

  When any of the above options is selected by user input on the operation unit 15, the process proceeds to S13. In S13, since any margin amount is selected in S11, information indicating that such a margin amount is selected is stored in the memory.

  In S11, when the user input is an input for setting the number of folds (S11: number of folds), the processing unit 11 determines the number of folds to be used in the subsequent processing as instructed by the user input. Set (S14) and return to S11. In S11, when a user input for selecting the number of folds is performed, a plurality of options relating to the number of folds are displayed on the display unit 16. In the present embodiment, the number of folds “2”, “3”, and “4” can be selected. However, as already explained, depending on the relationship between the paper size and the size of the reading object, it is also possible to select “5 or more” as the number of folds, so in conjunction with the setting of the paper size and the size of the reading object, You may comprise so that the upper limit of the option of the number of folds may be changed dynamically.

  Further, when the number of folds “3”, “4” (or 5 or more) is selected, the display unit 16 displays the options for the number of the n-divided regions in which the two images are arranged. To do. When one of the options in each of the above items is selected by a user input on the operation unit 15, the process proceeds to S14. In S14, since any fold number (and image arrangement position) is selected in S11, information indicating that such fold number (and image arrangement position) is selected is stored in the memory. .

  The setting of the number of folds is effective when the margin amount setting is “automatic”. Therefore, when the margin amount is set to other than “automatic”, the setting item related to the number of folds may be grayed out (changed to light color display) so that an input operation related to the number of folds may not be accepted. However, even when the setting item related to the number of folds is grayed out, the margin amount may be set to “automatic” by an additional operation. Therefore, the setting content immediately before the grayout is retained as it is, and the setting content when the margin amount setting is set to “automatic” by the adding operation may be the initial value at the time of the adding operation. .

In S11, if the user input is an input for instructing the start of copying (S11: start of copying), the setting process shown in FIG. 8B is terminated and the process proceeds to S2 in FIG. The unit 11 performs a reading process (S2). The details of the reading process are as shown in FIG. That is, when the reading process is started, the processing unit 11 guides the user to set the surface 41A of the ID card 41 by displaying a message or the like on the display unit 16 (S21). Here, when the user sets the front surface 41A of the ID card 41 on the platen 21 in accordance with the guidance and the user inputs that the setting is completed (for example, when the OK button is pressed on the operation unit 15), the process proceeds to S22. move on.

  Subsequently, the processing unit 11 determines whether the margin amount setting is “automatic”, “margin amount 1”, or “margin amount 2” (S22). In S22, when the margin amount setting is “automatic” (S22: automatic), the processing unit 11 calculates the reading area length in the main scanning direction according to the set sheet length and the number of folds (S23). In S23, a region RM1 shown in FIG. 4B, a range RM4 shown in FIG. 5A, a range RM5 shown in FIG. The margin length is calculated based on the size of the image forming area, the size of the ID card 41, and the number of folds, and the size obtained by adding the calculated value to the card length of the ID card 41 is calculated.

  In S22, when the margin amount is set to “margin amount 1” (S22: margin amount 1), the processing unit 11 reads the reading area length in the main scanning direction according to the set sheet length and margin amount 1. Is calculated (S24). In S24, the margin length of the region that becomes the margin between images is set to a preset size (or a size that is arbitrarily designated by the user) as in the range RM6 shown in FIG. The size added to the card length of the ID card 41 is calculated.

  In S22, when the margin amount is set to “margin amount 2” (S22: margin amount 2), the processing unit 11 reads the reading area length in the main scanning direction according to the set sheet length and margin amount 2. Is calculated (S25). In S25, the reading area length is calculated by the same method as in S24. However, for the margin amount 2, a size different from the margin amount 1 is set in advance or can be arbitrarily designated by the user.

  Upon completion of any of S23, S24, or S25 as described above, the processing unit 11 subsequently determines the reading area length in the main scanning direction and the card length + α in the sub-scanning direction based on the calculation result (α is described above). An image in a range of “dimension for giving a slight margin”.) Is read, and a surface + margin image A (an image obtained by reading the above-described range of RM1 × RS1) is generated (S26). .

  Subsequently, the processing unit 11 displays a message or the like on the display unit 16 to guide the setting of the back surface of the ID card (S27). Here, when the user sets the back surface 41B of the ID card 41 on the platen 21 according to the guidance, and the user input is made that the setting is completed (for example, when the OK button is pressed on the operation unit 15), the process proceeds to S28. move on.

  Next, the processing unit 11 determines that the card width + β (β is the “dimension for providing a slight margin”) in the main scanning direction, and the card length + α (α is the “slight margin” described above. The image in the range of “the dimension for giving the“. ”Is read, and the back side image B is generated (S28).

  When S28 ends, the reading process shown in FIG. 9 ends, and the process proceeds to S3 in FIG. 8A, and the processing unit 11 executes the image forming process (S3). The details of the image forming process are as shown in FIG. That is, when the image forming process is started, the processing unit 11 starts feeding and detects the size of the recording medium 50 (S31). The size of the recording medium 50 detected in S31 is the size of the recording medium 50 in the transport direction. In S31, the size of the recording medium 50 may be actually detected, or the size of the recording medium 50 may be estimated.

  When the size of the recording medium 50 is actually detected, for example, the leading and trailing ends of the recording medium 50 conveyed along the conveyance path are detected by a sensor, and based on the detection timing and the conveyance amount. The distance between the front end and the end in the transport direction is calculated. When estimating the size of the recording medium 50, first, the dimension of the recording medium 50 in the width direction (direction orthogonal to the transport direction) is detected by a sensor, or the side that regulates the transport direction of the recording medium 50. The width-direction dimension of the recording medium 50 is estimated based on the position of a guide (not shown). Then, the dimension of the recording medium 50 in the transport direction is estimated based on the dimension of the recording medium 50 in the width direction. For example, when the dimension in the width direction of the recording medium 50 is equivalent to A4 (210 mm), the dimension in the transport direction of the recording medium 50 is also estimated to be equivalent to A4 (297 mm) based on the dimension in the width direction.

  When S31 ends, the processing unit 11 determines whether or not the size of the recording medium 50 detected (or estimated) in S31 matches the paper size setting selected in S12 (S32). If it is determined in S32 that the two sizes do not match (S32: NO), the processing unit 11 sets the margin amount selected in S13 to “automatic”, “margin amount 1”, “margin amount”. 2 ”is determined (S33).

  In these determinations of S32 or S33, when the above two sizes match (S32: YES), or when the margin amount selected in S13 is “margin amount 1” or “margin amount 2” (S33). : Margin amount 1, margin amount 2), the processing unit 11 combines the image A and the image B described above to generate an image C for printing (S34).

  On the other hand, when the setting of the margin amount selected in S13 is “automatic” (S33: automatic), the processing unit 11 sets the size of the recording medium 50 detected (or estimated) in S31 and the setting in S12. Depending on the size of the recording medium 50, the size of the margin between the images is reset, and the reset images A and B are combined to generate the print image C (S35).

  A margin between images is included in the image A. The size of the margin included in the image A is a size suitable for the size of the recording medium 50 set in S12. However, if it is determined in S32 that the two sizes do not match (S32: NO), the size of the margin included in the image A is suitable for the size of the recording medium 50 detected (or estimated) in S31. There will be no. Therefore, in S35, the size of the margin included in the image A is adjusted to increase or decrease so that the size of the margin between the images becomes a size suitable for the size of the recording medium 50 detected (or estimated) in S31.

  When either S34 or S35 is completed in this manner, the processing unit 11 prints the image C on the recording medium (S36). When S36 is finished, the image forming process shown in FIG. 10 is finished, and the ID copy process shown in FIG. 8A is finished.

[effect]
According to the MFP 1 configured as described above, the processing unit 11 executes the image forming process illustrated in FIG. 10, so that one surface (in the image forming area) of the recording medium 50 is S26 (this specification). And the second image 51B read by S28 (corresponding to an example of the second reading process in this specification). , Formed in full size.

Moreover, when the processing unit 11 executes S13 (corresponding to an example of the margin size setting process in the present specification), the size of the margin provided between the first image 51A and the second image 51B is set. , Set to one of several sizes. Thereafter, by executing S22 to S25, in the image forming process shown in FIG. 10, based on the size of the margin set in S13, the margins of the size are the first image 51A and the second image 51B. Between.

  Therefore, unlike a technique in which the size of the margin cannot be changed or a technique in which the entire size including the first image 51A, the second image 51B, and the margin is enlarged / reduced, the margin is set in the image forming area. The first image 51A and the second image 51B can be formed in full size while adjusting to a suitable size. Therefore, for example, even if the size of the first image 51A and the second image 51B is not changed, by adjusting the size of the margin, the entire image including the first image 51A, the second image 51B, and the margin is included. Can be stored in the image forming area. Further, for example, a more suitable margin size can be set in accordance with the purpose of use and the first image 51A and the second image 51B can be arranged at desired positions in the image forming area.

  In particular, in the case of the multifunction machine 1 of the present embodiment, the processing unit 11 is set by the size of the first image 51A and S13 by S23 to S25 (corresponding to an example of the reading size calculation process referred to in this specification). Based on the size of the margin, the read size in S26 is calculated. In S26, by reading an image with the reading size range calculated in S23 to S25 as a reading target, a blank image that is a blank image in addition to the first image 51A is also read. In the image forming process shown in FIG. 1, the first image 51A and the second image 51B are formed by forming the first image 51A and the blank image and forming the second image 51B at a position adjacent to the blank image. A margin is provided between them. Therefore, the first image 51A and the blank image can be obtained at a time only by executing S26, so that the process for creating the blank image is not performed separately from the process for reading the first image 51A. That's it.

  In the case of the MFP 1 of the present embodiment, in S26, for the main scanning direction, a position of a predetermined origin and a position separated from the position of the origin by the size of the first image 51A and the margin. And the range between the predetermined origin position and the position separated from the origin position by the size of the first image 51A in the sub-scanning direction. It is said. Therefore, the memory required for the reading process can be reduced as compared with the case where the area unnecessary for image formation is read redundantly.

  In the case of the MFP 1 of the present embodiment, in S28, in the main scanning direction, a position between the predetermined origin and a position separated from the origin by the size of the second image 51B. In the sub-scanning direction, the range between the predetermined origin position and the position separated from the origin position by the size of the second image 51B is the reading target. The

Therefore, the memory required for the reading process can be reduced as compared with the case where the area unnecessary for image formation is read redundantly.
In the case of the MFP 1 of the present embodiment, in S13 (corresponding to an example of a margin size selection process in the present specification), a plurality of options relating to the margin size are prepared in advance and used from the plurality of options. One option specified by the user's operation can be selected. Therefore, the size of the margin provided between the first image 51A and the second image 51B can be easily set simply by selecting from the options prepared in advance.

In the case of the MFP 1 of the present embodiment, in S13, “automatic (corresponding to an example of the first option in the present specification)” and “margin amount 1 (second in the present specification) are selected as options. This corresponds to an example of an option.) ”. Regardless of which one is selected, the image forming area is divided into, for example, two areas, and two divided areas that are adjacent to each other are divided into two divided areas. A first image 51A is formed in one of the regions, and a second image 51B is formed in the other. A margin having a size corresponding to “automatic” or “margin amount 1” is provided between the first image 51A and the second image 51B, and “margin amount 1” is selected (see FIG. 7). )), The size of the margin provided between the first image 51A and the second image 51B is made smaller than when “automatic” is selected (see FIG. 4B). Therefore, for example, it is convenient when it is necessary to press a seal (stamp) so as to straddle between the first image 51A and the second image 51B.

  In the case of the MFP 1 of the present embodiment, in S12 (corresponding to an example of the medium size selection process in the present specification), a plurality of options relating to the size of the recording medium 50 are prepared in advance, and a plurality of options are selected. One option specified by user operation can be selected. When forming an image, the size of the margin can be optimized according to the size of the recording medium 50 selected in S12.

  In the case of the multifunction machine 1 of the present embodiment, the size of the recording medium 50 can be detected by S31 (corresponding to an example of the medium size detection process in this specification), and the detected medium detected by S35. Depending on the size of the recording medium 50, the size of the margin can be optimized.

[Supplement]
As described above, the image processing apparatus has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments. However, the above-described embodiments are merely illustrated as one aspect of the present invention. That is, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the technical idea of the present invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, it has been described that the ID copy process shown in FIG. 8A is executed when an input operation instructing the start of execution of the ID copy function is performed on the operation unit 15 of the multifunction machine 1. However, it may be executed in response to another event. For example, when a command instructing the start of execution of the ID copy function is transmitted from another device (for example, a PC (Personal Computer)) connected to the multifunction device 1, and the command is received by the communication unit 17 of the multifunction device 1. In addition, the ID copy process may be executed.

  In the above embodiment, the output image by the ID copy function is printed on the recording medium 50. However, the output image by the ID copy function is output to a file that can be displayed or printed. Also good. Specifically, for example, an electronic document data format such as pdf (Portable Document Format) or an image data format such as TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) or JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) A file may be output.

As is clear from the exemplary embodiments described above, the image processing apparatus described in this specification may further include the following configurations.
First, in the image processing apparatus described in the present specification, the processing unit calculates a reading size in the first reading process based on the size of the first image and the size of the margin set by the margin size setting process. The reading size calculation process is configured to be executable, and in the first reading process, by reading the image within the reading size range calculated by the reading size calculation process as a reading target, in addition to the first image, a margin and In the image forming process, the first image and the blank image are formed, and the second image is formed at a position adjacent to the blank image. A margin may be provided between the two images.

According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, a blank image is also read in addition to the first image in the first reading process. In the image forming process, a first image and a blank image are formed in the image forming area, and a second image is formed at a position adjacent to the blank image, whereby the first image and the second image are A margin is provided between them.

  Therefore, since the first image and the blank image can be obtained in a batch only by executing the first reading process, the process for creating the blank image need not be executed separately from the process for reading the first image. It will be over.

  In the image processing apparatus described in the present specification, the reading unit includes a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in one direction, and the direction in which the light receiving elements are arranged is a main scanning direction and a direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. The first image and the second image can be read by the light receiving element while moving in the sub-scanning direction along the support portion with the sub-scanning direction as the sub-scanning direction. A range between a predetermined origin position and a position separated from the origin position by the size of the first image and the margin is to be read, and the predetermined origin is set in the sub-scanning direction. And a range between the position of the origin and the position separated from the position of the origin by the size of the first image may be set as a reading target.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, in the first reading process, it is possible to read only the range necessary for forming the first image and the margin. Therefore, the memory required for the reading process can be reduced as compared with the case where the area unnecessary for image formation is read redundantly.

  In the image processing apparatus described in the present specification, in the second reading process, the position of the origin that is set in advance in the main scanning direction is separated from the position of the origin by the size of the second image. And the range between the predetermined origin position and the position separated from the origin position by the size of the second image in the sub-scanning direction. It may be said.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, in the second reading process, only a range necessary for forming the second image can be read. Therefore, the memory required for the reading process can be reduced as compared with the case where the area unnecessary for image formation is read redundantly.

  In the image processing apparatus described in the present specification, the processing unit has a plurality of options relating to the margin size prepared in advance, and a margin size for selecting one option specified by a user operation from the plurality of options. The selection process can be executed, and in the margin size setting process, a margin size corresponding to one option selected in the margin size selection process may be set.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, it is possible to easily set the size of the margin provided between the first image and the second image simply by selecting from the options prepared in advance. it can.

In the image processing apparatus described in the present specification, in the margin size selection process, the plurality of options include at least the first option and the second option, and any of the first option and the second option. In the image forming process, the image forming area is divided into n areas (where n is an integer of 2 or more), and n divided areas that are the areas after the division are selected. Among them, a first image is formed in one of two divided regions at adjacent positions, and a second image is formed in the other, and a margin size is set between the first image and the second image. When a margin of a size corresponding to one option selected in the selection process is provided and the second option is selected, the first image and the second image are compared with the case where the first option is selected. Margins between the images 'S may be small.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, when the second option is selected, the first image and the second image are closer to each other than when the first option is selected. Formed. Therefore, for example, if the first option is selected, a sufficient margin can be provided between the first image and the second image. If the second option is selected, the first image and the second image can be formed closer to each other than when the first option is selected. Therefore, for example, it is convenient when it is necessary to press a stamp (stamp) so as to straddle between the first image and the second image.

  The image processing apparatus described in the present specification further includes an image forming unit capable of forming an image on a recording medium having a surface serving as an image forming region. The first image and the second image may be formed on the recording medium by the image forming unit.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the first image and the second image can be formed on the recording medium by the image forming unit. In that case, a margin of a size that allows both the first image and the second image to fit in the recording medium can be provided between the first image and the second image.

  In the image processing apparatus described in this specification, the processing unit has a plurality of options relating to the size of the recording medium prepared in advance, and selects one option specified by a user operation from the plurality of options. The medium size selection process may be executed, and in the image forming process, the margin size may be set according to the size of the recording medium selected in the medium size selection process.

According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the size of the margin can be optimized according to the size of the recording medium selected in the medium size selection process.
In the image processing apparatus described in the present specification, the processing unit is configured to be able to execute a detection process for detecting the size of the recording medium. In the image forming process, the processing unit detects the recording medium detected by the detection process. Depending on the size, the margin size may be settable.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the size of the margin can be optimized in accordance with the size of the recording medium detected by the detection unit.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... MFP, 11 ... Processing part, 12 ... Reading part, 13 ... Image forming part, 14 ... Auxiliary storage part, 15 ... Operation part, 16 ... Display part, 17 ... Communication part, 20 ... Flatbed part, 21 ... Platen 23 ... Image sensor 25 ... Stepping motor 27 ... Gear mechanism 29 ... Toothed belt 31 ... Carriage 33 ... Guide part 35 ... Top cover 37 ... Mark 41 ... Card 41A ... Surface 41B ... back side, 50 ... recording medium, 51A ... first image, 51B ... second image, 58 ... imprint.

Claims (9)

A support part capable of supporting an object to be read;
A reading unit capable of reading an image from the reading object supported by the support unit;
A processing unit capable of executing data processing related to image data representing an image read by the reading unit,
The processor is
A first reading process for reading a first image by the reading unit;
A second reading process for reading a second image by the reading unit;
The first image read by the first reading process and the second image read by the second reading process are captured at an original size within an image forming area that is an area where an image is formed. An image forming process to be formed;
A margin size setting process for setting a margin size provided between the first image and the second image to any one of a plurality of sizes; and
In the image forming process, an image processing apparatus that provides a margin of the size between the first image and the second image based on a margin size set by the margin size setting process. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The processing unit is configured to execute a read size calculation process for calculating a read size in the first read process based on the size of the first image and the size of the margin set by the margin size setting process. And
In the first reading process, a blank image that is an image serving as the blank in addition to the first image is read by reading an image within a reading size range calculated by the reading size calculation process. Also read,
In the image forming process, the first image and the second image are formed by forming the first image and the margin image, and forming the second image at a position adjacent to the margin image. An image processing apparatus in which the margin is provided. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
The reading unit includes a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in one direction. The direction in which the light receiving elements are arranged is a main scanning direction, and a direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction is a sub scanning direction. The first image and the second image can be read by the light receiving element while moving in the sub-scanning direction along
In the first reading process, in the main scanning direction, a range between a predetermined origin position and a position separated from the origin position by the size of the first image and the margin is read. In the sub-scanning direction, a range between a predetermined origin position and a position separated from the origin position by the size of the first image is an object to be read. apparatus. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3,
In the second reading process, with respect to the main scanning direction, a range between a predetermined origin position and a position separated from the origin position by the size of the second image is set as a reading target. In the sub-scanning direction, an image processing apparatus in which a range between a predetermined origin position and a position separated from the origin position by the size of the second image is to be read. An image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
The processor is
A plurality of options related to the size of the margin is prepared in advance, and is configured to be able to execute a margin size selection process for selecting one option specified by a user operation from the plurality of options.
In the margin size setting process, an image processing apparatus is set in which a margin size corresponding to one option selected in the margin size selection process is set. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5,
In the margin size selection process, the plurality of options include at least a first option and a second option,
Regardless of which of the first option and the second option is selected, in the image forming process, the number of the image forming areas is n (where n is an integer of 2 or more). The first image is formed in one of two divided regions located adjacent to each other among the n divided regions that are the divided regions, and the second image is formed on the other, The margin of a size corresponding to one option selected in the margin size selection process is provided between the first image and the second image,
When the second option is selected, the size of the margin provided between the first image and the second image is reduced compared to when the first option is selected. Image processing device. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein
An image forming unit capable of forming an image on a recording medium having a surface serving as the image forming region;
In the image forming process, the processing unit forms the first image and the second image on the recording medium by the image forming unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 7,
The processor is
A plurality of options relating to the size of the recording medium is prepared in advance, and is configured to be able to execute a medium size selection process for selecting one option specified by a user operation from the plurality of options.
An image processing apparatus configured to be able to set the size of the margin according to the size of the recording medium selected in the medium size selection process in the image forming process. The image processing apparatus according to claim 7,
The processor is
A detection process for detecting the size of the recording medium is configured to be executable,
The image processing apparatus configured to be able to set the size of the margin according to the size of the recording medium detected by the detection process in the image forming process.

Images