JP2019125828A - Document scanning apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an easy-to-carry and low-cost document scanning apparatus.SOLUTION: In a document scanning device according to the present invention having an automatic paper feeding device and a photographing device as a set, the document scanning device creates a private communication network between the automatic paper feeding device and the photographing device, and the automatic paper feeding device transmits communication information to the photographing device via the private communication network, and the photographing device responds to the communication information to perform a corresponding operation. In one embodiment, the document scanning device is operable to align the relative position between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device. In another embodiment, the document scanning device performs an operation of automatic scanning of multiple pages.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a document scanning device, and more particularly to a portable and low cost document scanning device.

  Conventionally, when copying and storing document files, it is necessary to use a scanner and a computer. Specifically, the scanner scans the contents of the document and sends it to the computer, and the computer converts and stores the file. I do. However, for light layer users who have a small number of documents to scan every day, purchasing a scanner is not too economical, so it is reasonable to capture document images directly with a smartphone shooting lens as a compromise solution Although the image quality of the document image captured directly by the smartphone does not become as desired although there is a large number of documents to be scanned, it is necessary to repeat the scanning operation. Due to the various disadvantages described above, the effect of scanning a document with a smartphone is not preferable as compared with the conventional scanner, and neither compatibility in terms of portability, scan cost, and scan image quality can be achieved.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to capture a document image by a photographing member of a smartphone and to process the document image through an image processing function of the smartphone, thereby facilitating portability and reducing the purchase cost To provide the user with a document scanning device, which is used in combination with a smartphone. In addition, the apparatus of the present invention further provides the functions provided by the conventional scanner, such as automatic paper feeding and document position alignment.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has the following features.

  An automatic paper feeding apparatus is a document scanning apparatus used in combination with a photographing apparatus, wherein the automatic paper feeding apparatus forms an inner housing area together with an external case and the external case, and the external case A paper feed passage installed in the inner accommodation area and provided with a scan position, and a paper feed path for passing a document to the paper feed passage by being installed in the inner accommodation area A unit, and a photographing apparatus fixed unit that captures an image of the scan position by being installed on the upper surface of the upper cover, and transmits different communication information to the photographing apparatus according to various information to be transferred And a transmitting module.

  In a preferred embodiment, the document scanning device is disposed between the photographing device fixing unit and the paper feeding path, and the photographing width at the scanning position by the photographing device is equal to or more than the width of the document waiting for scanning. It further comprises an imaging optical unit to make it larger.

  In a preferred embodiment, the imaging optical unit is selected from the group consisting of an optical reflector and an optical lens.

  In a preferred embodiment, the imaging optical unit further comprises at least one illumination member attached to the inner accommodation area and controlling exposure at the scanning position.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information transmitted by the transmission module to the imaging device is an image at the scan position.

  In a preferred embodiment, the transmission module transmits, to the photographing device, communication information having information on a relative position between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the transmission module transmits, to the photographing device, communication information having information that the automatic paper feeding device has prepared for paper feeding.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information is one-way communication information.

  A photographing device used in combination with an automatic paper feeding device, which captures a document image and temporarily stores the image at an original image link destination, and a document image temporarily stored at the original image link destination An image pickup apparatus comprising: an image processing unit for taking out and performing corresponding processing; and a communication module for receiving communication information from an automatic paper feeding apparatus and calling a corresponding sub-module.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information is one-way communication information.

  1. A method of operating a document scanning device comprising: creating a private communication network between an automatic paper feeder and an imaging device; transmitting communication information to the imaging device via the private communication network; And d. Performing the corresponding operation in response to the communication information, wherein the photographing device performs the corresponding operation.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information comprises an optical image captured by an imaging unit of the imaging device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the transmission module transmits the communication information to the imaging device via at least one personal area network aspect in combination of an electroacoustical device, a wired conductive electrical signal, and a wireless electrical signal. .

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information includes relative position information between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device, and the performing step displays caution information for correcting the relative position. Including steps.

  In a preferred embodiment, the method for operating the document scanning device is to scan by controlling the photographing unit when the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has prepared for paper feeding. Perform the steps of capturing the document image of the waiting document and temporarily saving the image to the original image link.

In a preferred embodiment, the method of functioning the document scanning device comprises
When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding:
Performing the steps of simultaneously calling the image inspection module, the image trimming module and the image combining module and performing their corresponding actions;
An image inspection module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, and inspects whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and exposes, focuses and outputs the document image. Suspending capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting parameters of the image capture by the imaging unit if at least one of the alignment status combinations is abnormal;
An image trimming module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusts the contrast of the document image, cuts out a desired image block from the document image, trims the image block to the trimming image link destination Temporarily storing and deleting a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
Combining an image block temporarily stored in the trimming image link destination and combining different image blocks of a fixed length to form a single page document image;
Run.

In a preferred embodiment, the method of functioning the document scanning device comprises
When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding and the number of feature points in the communication information is larger than a threshold value,
When a document awaiting scanning passes the scan position, the imaging unit is controlled to capture a document image of the document awaiting scanning and temporarily store the image at the original image link destination, while the image inspection module Performing the steps of simultaneously calling the image trimming module, the image feature module and the image stitching module and performing their corresponding actions;
An image inspection module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, and inspects whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and exposes, focuses and outputs the document image. Suspending capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting parameters of the image capture by the imaging unit if at least one of the alignment status combinations is abnormal;
An image trimming module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusts the contrast of the document image, cuts out a desired image block from the document image, trims the image block to the trimming image link destination Temporarily storing and deleting a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
The image feature module finds the feature points in the image data, calculates the number of feature points, and selects and calls the corresponding submodule according to the number of feature points.
An image stitching module takes out image blocks temporarily stored in the trimmed image link destination, finds the same feature point present in different image blocks, and stitches different image blocks in order with the same feature points. Steps to form a single page document image
Run.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information is one-way communication information.

  A method for operating a document scanning device, wherein the document scanning device comprises a computer readable recording medium storing a submodule, the submodule being in private communication between an automatic paper feeder and a photographing device. Performing a step of creating a network, a step of transmitting communication information to the photographing device via the private communication network, and a step of performing a corresponding operation in response to the communication information by the photographing device A method of operating a featured document scanning device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information comprises an optical image captured by an imaging unit of the imaging device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the transmission module transmits the communication information to the imaging device via at least one personal area network aspect in combination of an electroacoustical device, a wired conductive electrical signal, and a wireless electrical signal. .

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information includes relative position information between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device, and the performing of the operation includes the user's attention to align the position of the photographing device to the user. Including providing information.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information includes relative position information between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device, and the performing step displays caution information for correcting the relative position. Including steps.

  In a preferred embodiment, the method for operating the document scanning device is a method of waiting for a scan by controlling the photographing unit when the communication information has information that the automatic paper feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding. Perform the steps of capturing the document image of the document and temporarily saving the image to the original image link.

In a preferred embodiment, the method of functioning the document scanning device is:
When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding:
Performing the steps of simultaneously calling the image inspection module, the image trimming module and the image combining module and performing their corresponding actions;
An image inspection module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, and inspects whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and exposes, focuses and outputs the document image. Suspending capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting parameters of the image capture by the imaging unit if at least one of the alignment status combinations is abnormal;
An image trimming module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusts the contrast of the document image, cuts out a desired image block from the document image, trims the image block to the trimming image link destination Temporarily storing and deleting a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
Combining an image block temporarily stored in the trimming image link destination and combining different image blocks of a fixed length to form a single page document image;
Run.

In a preferred embodiment, the method of functioning the document scanning device is:
When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding and the number of feature points in the communication information is larger than a threshold value,
When a document awaiting scanning passes the scan position, the imaging unit is controlled to capture a document image of the document awaiting scanning and temporarily store the image at the original image link destination, while the image inspection module Performing the steps of simultaneously calling the image trimming module, the image feature module and the image stitching module and performing their corresponding actions;
An image inspection module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, and inspects whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and exposes, focuses and outputs the document image. Suspending capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting parameters of the image capture by the imaging unit if at least one of the alignment status combinations is abnormal;
An image trimming module takes out a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusts the contrast of the document image, cuts out a desired image block from the document image, trims the image block to the trimming image link destination Temporarily storing and deleting a document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
The image feature module finds the feature points in the image data, calculates the number of feature points, and selects and calls the corresponding submodule according to the number of feature points.
An image stitching module takes out image blocks temporarily stored in the trimmed image link destination, finds the same feature point present in different image blocks, and stitches different image blocks in order with the same feature points. Steps to form a single page document image
Run.

  In a preferred embodiment, the communication information is one-way communication information.

It is a three-dimensional view and a sub module figure of an imaging device in one example of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view and a subsystem view of an automatic sheet feeding device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing that the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device are combined in a set in an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart figure of the operation | movement which combines a photographing device and a paper automatic feeding device by a set. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an automatic scan according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an automatic scan according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In order to describe in detail the technical features of the present invention, the configuration of the means, the objects to be achieved, and the effects to be achieved, the following description will be made with reference to the drawings.

  The term "paper out" and / or "document" used in the specification is a paper out, a film, etc. (including but not limited to) as a carrier, and the contents such as figures and / or characters are It is a document file recorded.

  Please refer to FIG. 1 to FIG. The document scanning apparatus according to the present invention includes an automatic paper feeder 20 and an imaging device 10 used in combination with the automatic paper feeder 20, and the automatic paper feeder 20 and / or the imaging The apparatus 10 is provided with a computer readable recording medium for storing submodules, and performs a series of operation steps when the submodules operate (details will be described later).

  In the present embodiment, the photographing device 10 is a smartphone, and the smartphone captures a document image and temporarily stores the image in the original image link destination, and the document temporarily stored in the original image link destination It has an image processing unit 12 for taking out an image and performing corresponding processing, and a touch panel display 13 for displaying information and providing a feedback operation. The smartphone may be provided with other dedicated or function-specifiable operation members such as function buttons, selection buttons, joysticks, and touch panels. Furthermore, it should be noted that each technical feature of the present specification can also be implemented in an imaging device 10 other than a smartphone, such as a computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a game machine, a digital camera, a digital video camera, and the like.

The image processing unit 12 has the following submodules:
A communication module 141 which receives communication information from the sheet automatic feeding device 20 and calls a corresponding sub module;
The document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination is taken out, and it is checked whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and the combination of the document image exposure, focus and alignment state An image inspection module 142 for temporarily stopping capture by the imaging unit 11 and re-adjusting a parameter of image capture by the imaging unit 11 when at least one state becomes abnormal;
Extracting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusting the contrast of the document image, cutting out a desired image block from the document image, and temporarily storing the image block in the trimming image link destination; An image trimming module 143 for deleting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination;
An image feature module 144 for finding feature points in image data, calculating the number of feature points, and selecting and calling a corresponding sub-module according to the number of feature points;
The image block temporarily stored at the trimming image link destination is taken out, the same feature point existing in different image blocks is found, and different image blocks are stitched in order by the same feature point, and a single page document image is obtained. An image stitching module 145 for forming;
An image combination module 146 for taking out image blocks temporarily stored in the trimming image link destination and combining different image blocks with a fixed length to form a single page document image;
A position alignment module 147 that determines the current relative position between the photographing device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device 20 and displays caution information for correcting the position;
The upper cover 211 is opened, the paper feed tray 220 is emptied, the paper feed path 222 is jammed, and the user sends an abort command, and at least one abnormal condition is detected from the group consisting of: Interrupt module 148, which interrupts the scanning process if
Have.

And, said paper automatic feeding device 20,
An external housing 210,
An upper cover 211 which forms an inner accommodation area 212 together with the outer casing 210 and is pivotally supported by the outer casing 210;
A feed tray 220 operatively mounted on the surface of the outer housing 210 and carrying documents awaiting scanning;
A discharge port 221 installed on the outer surface of the external housing 210 and discharging a scanned document;
A paper feed passage 222 installed in the inner accommodation area and in communication with the paper feed tray 220 and the paper discharge outlet 221 and provided with a scan position 223;
A paper feed unit having a paper feed drum 241, a paper feed sensor 242, a paper feed drum 243, and a paper feed sensor 244, which is installed in the inner accommodation area to feed a document through the paper feed passage 222. 24 and
An imaging device fixing unit 25 for capturing an image of the scan position 223 by the imaging device 10 being installed on the upper surface of the upper cover 211;
An imaging optical unit 26 disposed between the photographing device fixing unit 25 and the paper feeding path 222 and making the photographing width at the scanning position 223 by the photographing device 10 equal to or larger than the width of the document waiting for scanning; ,
At least one illumination member 27 attached to the inner accommodation area 212 and controlling exposure at the scan position 223;
Have.

  Since the viewing angle of the conventional imaging device 10 is unique, the imaging available width is influenced by only one parameter of the distance to the target to be captured. In order to capture the document image of the entire document without leakage, it is necessary to increase the distance between the imaging device 10 and the scan position 223, and accordingly, the volume of the automatic paper feeding device 20 is also increased. It will be bulky. In order to prevent the volume of the automatic paper feeding device 20 from being too large, the imaging optical unit 26 in the present embodiment has three flat reflecting mirrors, and the operation of the flat reflecting mirrors of the imaging device 10 of the present embodiment. The optical path is superimposed and the volume of the automatic paper feeder 20 is reduced. However, the above-described aspect is for explanation, and the imaging optical unit 26 is not limited to the one having three flat reflecting mirrors, and in other embodiments, the imaging optical unit 26 is an optical It is selected from the group consisting of a reflecting mirror and an optical lens.

  Also, in this preferred embodiment, the automatic paper feeder 20 has the following sub-modules: a transmission module 281 for transmitting different communication information to the photographing device 10 according to various information to be transferred; The paper feed unit 24 is controlled to feed documents waiting for scanning at a fixed speed, the cover 211 is opened, the paper feed tray 220 is emptied, and the paper feed passage 222 is jammed. And a user sends an abort command to detect at least one abnormal condition from the group consisting of: a paper feed control module 282 for interrupting the paper feed process when detecting the abnormal condition.

  See FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing how the user attaches and positions the photographing device 10 on the automatic paper feeding device 20. After the imaging device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device 20 are combined, the imaging device 10 and the paper can accurately capture the document image of the document waiting for scanning located at the scan position 223. The automatic feeder 20 is controlled to execute the following operation steps.

  The user activates the automatic paper feeding device 20 and the photographing device 10 used in combination with the automatic paper feeding device 20.

When the automatic sheet feeding device 20 is activated, the sheet feeding control module 282 is called, and the sheet feeding control module 282 waits for a document in the sheet feeding tray 220 to be scanned whether the cover 211 can be opened or not. Detecting an abnormal state (including but not limited to) whether or not the paper feed path 222 is jammed or not.
Creating a private communication network between the automatic paper feeder 20 and the imaging device 10 if no abnormal condition is detected;
In this preferred embodiment, the private communication network operates via identification of optical images. The imaging device 10 captures the optical image of the automatic paper feeding device 20 to determine communication information from the automatic paper feeding device 20. In addition, since the functions of image capture and optical image processing are already built in the imaging apparatus, it is not necessary to add a unit for receiving communication information. Furthermore, since the communication information transmitted via the automatic paper feeder 20 is one-way communication information, there is no need to receive information to be fed back from the photographing apparatus, and the communication method is public such as the Internet or cellular network. This can be implemented only by performing one-to-one communication in a short distance area without using a network, so the installation cost of the transmission module 281 can be reduced.

Calling the transmission module 281 and transmitting communication information to the photographing apparatus 10 via the private communication network.
In this preferred embodiment, the transmission module 281 adjusts the exposure amount at the scan position 223 by controlling the illumination unit 27. Thus, various types of information can be transferred. In addition, the said aspect is for demonstrating, and this invention is not limited to this. The one-way communication may also transfer information via other features in the image, such as, but not limited to, textures, patterns, exposure, contrast, color patterns, and the like.

  When the imaging device 10 is activated, the communication module 141 is called, and the communication module 141 receives the communication information via the imaging unit 11 so as to continuously capture images at intervals. And one of the following operation steps is selected and executed according to the contents of the received communication information.

  If the feature of the scan position 223 is not completely displayed in the content of the communication information to be received, for example, if a pattern / outline other than the black or the automatic paper feeder 20 is displayed, the communication module 141 operates and A step of displaying caution information for bringing the photographing lens close to the paper automatic feeding device 20 on the touch panel display 13.

  When the content of the communication information to be received has the feature at the scan position 223, the communication module 141 calls the position alignment module 147, and the position alignment module 147 is activated, and the photographing device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device Calculating a relative position between 20 and 20 and displaying caution information for correcting the relative position on the touch panel display 13;

  The content of the communication information to be received is displayed to capture the feature at the scan position 223, and the position alignment module 147 is called to calculate the difference between the photographing device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device 20 for calculation. When the relative position is zero, the position alignment module 147 is activated to display caution information on the completion of position alignment on the touch panel display 13.

  In this embodiment, the transmission module 281 transmits the image having the feature at the scan position 223 to the photographing device 10, thereby calculating the relative position between the automatic paper feeding device 20 and the photographing device 10. In addition, it indicates that different relative positions perform corresponding operations. However, the above aspect is for describing communication information, and is not limited to the image at the scan position 223.

  In other embodiments, the transmission module 281 may be any of other personal area network aspects such as, but not limited to, images, electroacoustic devices, wired conductive electrical signals, and wireless electrical signals, etc. A communication network between the automatic paper feeder 20 and the photographing device 10 may be created via one, and the photographing device 10 may be connected to the photographing device 10 via the personal area network. By transmitting communication information having information of relative position with the paper automatic feeding device 20, the photographing device 10 responds to the communication information and performs a corresponding operation.

  See FIG. FIG. 5 shows a flowchart for the user to complete attachment of the automatic paper feeder 20 and the photographing device 10 and to start scanning. In order to automate scanning of a plurality of pages of documents, the photographing device 10 and the paper automatic feeding device 20 are controlled to execute the following operation steps.

  While the automatic sheet feeding device 20 activates the sheet feeding control module 282, the sheet feeding path 222 may be jammed if the cover 211 can be opened, if there is a document waiting for scanning in the sheet feeding tray 220 or not. Detecting abnormal conditions such as (including but not limited to) whether or not

If any abnormal state is not detected, a private communication network is created between the photographing device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device 20, and the transmission module 281 is called to call the photographing device 10 via the private communication network. Sending communication information to
In this embodiment, the transmitting module 281 is activated to control the paper feeding unit 24 and to start feeding the document waiting for scanning at a fixed speed, and the lighting unit 27 is positioned at the scanning position. Write up 223.

  When the imaging device 10 is activated, the communication module 141 is called, and the communication module 141 receives the communication information via the imaging unit 11 so as to continuously capture images at intervals. And one of the following operation steps is selected according to the content of the received communication information.

  If the communication information has a feature in which the scan position 223 is in a lighted-up state, the photographing unit 11 is controlled to capture a document waiting for scan passing through the scan position 223 at a fixed interval, Acquiring an image and temporarily storing it in an original image link destination, and simultaneously calling an image inspection module 142, an image trimming module 143, and an image combining module 146 and performing their corresponding operations.

  When the communication information has a feature in which the scan position 223 is not lighted up, the touch panel display 13 is controlled to display caution information that the automatic paper feeder 20 does not operate normally.

  In the present embodiment, the communication information transmitted by the automatic paper feeder 20 to the photographing device 10 is an image at the scan position 223, and the photographing device 10 changes the paper according to the exposure amount of the image to be received. It is checked whether the automatic feeding device 20 has completed the preparation of the paper feeding, and the corresponding operation is performed. However, the communication information is for explanation and is not limited to the exposure amount of the image.

  In another embodiment, the transmission module 281 can connect the automatic paper feeder 20 to the imaging device 10 through features of textures, patterns, colors, etc. (including but not limited to) in an image. By transmitting the communication information having the information for which the preparation for the paper feeding is completed, the photographing device 10 performs the corresponding operation in response to the communication information.

  In another embodiment, the transmission module 281 may be any one of other personal area network aspects, such as, but not limited to, electroacoustical devices, wired conductive electrical signals, and wireless electrical signals, etc. The communication information may be transmitted to the imaging device 10 via Thereby, the photographing device 10 performs the corresponding operation in response to the communication information.

  See FIG. FIG. 6 shows a flowchart for the user to complete attachment of the automatic paper feeder 20 and the photographing device 10 and to start scanning. In order to automate scanning of a plurality of pages of documents, the photographing device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device 20 are controlled to execute the following operation steps.

  When the automatic sheet feeding device 20 activates the sheet feeding control module 282, the sheet feeding passage 222 checks whether the cover 211 can be opened, whether there is a document waiting for scanning in the sheet feeding tray 220, or not. Detecting an abnormal condition (including but not limited to) whether or not clogging occurs.

If any abnormal state is not detected, a private communication network is created between the photographing device 10 and the automatic paper feeding device 20, and the transmission module 281 is called, and the photographing device is called via the private communication network. Sending the communication information to 10;
In this embodiment, the transmitting module 281 is activated to control the paper feeding unit 24 and to start feeding the document waiting for scanning at a fixed speed, and the lighting unit 27 is positioned at the scanning position. Write up 223.

  When the photographing apparatus 10 is activated, the communication module 141 is called, and the communication module 141 receives the communication information so as to continuously capture an image at an interval via the photographing unit 11. .

  Calling the image feature module 144, the image feature module 144 finds a feature point in the communication information, and selects and executes any one of the following operation steps according to the number of feature points.

When the communication information has information that the automatic paper feeder 20 has prepared for paper feeding and the number of feature points in the communication information is larger than a threshold, the document has a considerable amount of patterns, characters, and textures. Displaying information comprising:
It is possible to stitch different image blocks with high accuracy by comparing feature points.

  The imaging unit 11 is controlled to capture a document awaiting scan passing the scan position 223 at a fixed interval, obtain a document image and temporarily store it at the original image link destination, and also the image inspection module 142, image trimming Calling module 143, image features module 144 and image combining module 146 simultaneously and performing their corresponding actions.

If the number of feature points in the communication information is smaller than a threshold, displaying information in which the document has a large amount of blanks and a monotonous texture of duplicates.
In this state, it is difficult to stitch image blocks by comparing feature points. Instead, the image length is fixed and directly combined to combine image blocks into a single page document image. Let it form.

  The imaging unit 11 is controlled to capture a document awaiting scan passing the scan position 223 at a fixed interval, obtain a document image and temporarily store it at the original image link destination, and also the image inspection module 142, image trimming Calling module 143 and image combining module 146 simultaneously and performing their corresponding actions.

  In the present embodiment, the communication information transmitted by the automatic paper feeder 20 to the imaging device 10 is an image at the scan position 223, and the imaging device 10 depends on the number of feature points of the image to be received. Perform the corresponding action. However, the communication information is for explanation and is not limited to the number of feature points of the image.

  In another embodiment, the transmission module 281 transmits the communication information to the imaging device 10 through the features of texture, pattern, exposure, color pattern, etc. (including but not limited to) in an image. It is also good. Thereby, the photographing device 10 performs the corresponding operation in response to the communication information.

  In another embodiment, the transmission module 281 may be any one of other personal area network aspects, such as, but not limited to, electroacoustical devices, wired conductive electrical signals, and wireless electrical signals, etc. The communication information may be transmitted to the imaging device 10 via Thereby, the photographing device 10 performs the corresponding operation in response to the communication information.

  Summarizing the above, the present invention provides an automatic paper feeder 20 and a method for scanning a multi-page document using the automatic paper feeder 20 and any of the photographing devices 10 as a set. It is. This facilitates the portability of the scanning device while maintaining the ability to automatically scan multiple pages of documents while reducing the cost of installing the entire document scanning device.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Imaging device 11 Imaging unit 12 Image processing unit 13 Touch panel display 14 Imaging device sub module 141 Communication module 142 Image inspection module 143 Image trimming module 144 Image feature module 145 Image stitching module 146 Image combining module 147 Position alignment module 148 Interruption module 20 Automatic paper feed device 210 External housing 211 Upper cover 212 Internal storage area 220 Paper feed tray 221 Paper discharge port 222 Paper feed passage 223 Scan position 24 Paper feed unit 241 Paper feed drum 242 Paper feed sensor 243 Paper feed drum 244 Paper Feeding sensor 25 imaging device fixing unit 26 imaging optical unit 27 lighting unit 28 paper feeder sub module 281 transmission module 282 paper Supply control module

Claims (27)

The automatic document feeder is a document scanning device used in combination with a photographing device.
The paper automatic feeding device
An external housing,
An upper cover which forms an inner accommodation area together with the outer casing and is pivotally supported by the outer casing;
A paper feed passage installed in the inner accommodation area and provided with a scan position;
A paper feeding unit for feeding a document to the paper feeding path by being installed in the inner accommodation area;
An imaging device fixing unit configured to capture an image of the scan position by the imaging device being installed on the upper surface of the upper cover;
And a transmission module for transmitting different communication information to the imaging device according to various information to be transferred.
A document scanning device characterized in that.   The imaging optical unit further includes an imaging optical unit installed between the imaging device fixing unit and the paper feeding path, which makes the imaging width at the scanning position by the imaging device equal to or larger than the width of the document waiting for scanning. The document scanning device according to claim 1, characterized in that:   The document scanning device according to claim 1, wherein the imaging optical unit is selected from the group consisting of an optical reflecting mirror and an optical lens.   The document scanning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging optical unit further comprises at least one illumination member attached to the inner accommodation area and controlling exposure at the scan position.   The document scanning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication information transmitted by the transmission module to the imaging apparatus is an image at the scan position.   The document scanning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission module transmits, to the photographing apparatus, communication information having information on a relative position between the photographing apparatus and the automatic paper feeding apparatus.   The document scanning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission module transmits, to the photographing apparatus, communication information having information of which preparation for paper feeding has been completed by the automatic paper feeding apparatus.   The document scanning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication information is one-way communication information. The automatic document feeder is a document scanning device used in combination with a photographing device.
The imaging device is
A shooting unit that captures a document image and temporarily saves the image to an original image link destination;
An image processing unit that takes out a document image temporarily stored at an original image link destination and performs corresponding processing;
A communication module for receiving communication information from the automatic paper feeder and calling a corresponding sub-module;
A document scanning device characterized in that.   10. The document scanning apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the communication information is one-way communication information. A method of operating a document scanning device, comprising
Creating a private communication network between the automatic paper feeder and the imaging device;
Transmitting communication information to the imaging device via the private communication network;
Performing the corresponding operation in response to the communication information.
A method of operating a document scanning device characterized in that:   The method of claim 11, wherein the communication information comprises an optical image captured by an imaging unit of the imaging device.   The transmission module is characterized in that the communication information is transmitted to the imaging device via at least one personal area network aspect in combination of an electroacoustic engineering device, a wired conductive electrical signal, and a wireless electrical signal. A method of operating a document scanning device according to item 11.   The communication information has information of relative position between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device, and the step of performing the operation includes displaying caution information for correcting the relative position. A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 11. When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding:
Controlling the photographing unit to capture a document image of a document awaiting scanning and temporarily storing the image in an original image link destination;
A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 11, characterized in that: When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding:
Performing the steps of simultaneously calling the image inspection module, the image trimming module and the image combining module and performing their corresponding actions;
The image inspection module
The document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination is taken out, and it is checked whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and the combination of the document image exposure, focus and alignment state Temporarily stopping capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting the image capture parameters by the imaging unit if at least one condition is abnormal;
The image trimming module
Extracting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusting the contrast of the document image, cutting out a desired image block from the document image, and temporarily storing the image block in the trimming image link destination; Deleting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
The image combining module
The image blocks temporarily stored in the trimming image link destination are taken out, and combining different image blocks with a fixed length to form a single page document image is executed.
A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 11, characterized in that: When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding and the number of feature points in the communication information is larger than a threshold value,
When a document awaiting scanning passes the scan position, the imaging unit is controlled to capture the document image of the document awaiting scanning and temporarily save the image to the original image link destination while the image inspection module, the image Performing the steps of calling the trimming module, the image feature module and the image stitching module simultaneously and performing their corresponding actions;
The image inspection module
The document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination is taken out, and it is checked whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and the combination of the document image exposure, focus and alignment state Temporarily stopping capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting the image capture parameters by the imaging unit if at least one condition is abnormal;
The image trimming module
Extracting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusting the contrast of the document image, cutting out a desired image block from the document image, and temporarily storing the image block in the trimming image link destination; Deleting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
The image feature module
Finding a feature point in the image data, calculating the number of feature points, and selecting and calling a corresponding sub-module according to the number of feature points,
The image stitching module
The image block temporarily stored at the trimming image link destination is taken out, the same feature point existing in different image blocks is found, and different image blocks are stitched in order by the same feature point, and a single page document image is obtained. Performing the forming step
A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 11, characterized in that:   The method of claim 11, wherein the communication information is one-way communication information. A method of operating a document scanning device, the document scanning device having a computer readable storage medium storing sub-modules,
The submodule is
Creating a private communication network between the automatic paper feeder and the imaging device;
Transmitting communication information to the imaging device via the private communication network;
Performing the corresponding operation in response to the communication information.
A method of operating a document scanning device characterized in that:   The method of claim 19, wherein the communication information comprises an optical image captured by an imaging unit of the imaging device.   The transmission module is characterized in that the communication information is transmitted to the imaging device via at least one personal area network aspect in combination of an electroacoustic engineering device, a wired conductive electrical signal, and a wireless electrical signal. A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 19.   The communication information includes information on the relative position between the imaging device and the automatic paper feeding device, and the performing of the operation includes providing the user with attention information for aligning the position of the imaging device. 20. A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 19, comprising:   The communication information has information of relative position between the photographing device and the automatic paper feeding device, and the step of performing the operation includes displaying caution information for correcting the relative position. 20. A method of operating a document scanning device according to claim 19. When the communication information has information that the automatic paper feeder has completed preparation for paper feeding:
Controlling the photographing unit to capture a document image of a document awaiting scanning and temporarily storing the image in an original image link destination;
The method for operating a document scanning device according to claim 19, characterized in that: When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding:
Performing the steps of simultaneously calling the image inspection module, the image trimming module and the image combining module and performing their corresponding actions;
The image inspection module
The document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination is taken out, and it is checked whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and the combination of the document image exposure, focus and alignment state Temporarily stopping capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting the image capture parameters by the imaging unit if at least one condition is abnormal;
The image trimming module
Extracting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusting the contrast of the document image, cutting out a desired image block from the document image, and temporarily storing the image block in the trimming image link destination; Deleting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
The image combining module
The image blocks temporarily stored in the trimming image link destination are taken out, and combining different image blocks with a fixed length to form a single page document image is executed.
The method for operating a document scanning device according to claim 19, characterized in that: When the communication information has information that the paper automatic feeding device has completed preparation for paper feeding and the number of feature points in the communication information is larger than a threshold value,
When a document awaiting scanning passes the scan position, the imaging unit is controlled to capture the document image of the document awaiting scanning and temporarily save the image to the original image link destination while the image inspection module, the image Performing the steps of calling the trimming module, the image feature module and the image stitching module simultaneously and performing their corresponding actions;
The image inspection module
The document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination is taken out, and it is checked whether the document image is correctly exposed, focused and aligned, and the combination of the document image exposure, focus and alignment state Temporarily stopping capture by the imaging unit and re-adjusting the image capture parameters by the imaging unit if at least one condition is abnormal;
The image trimming module
Extracting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination, adjusting the contrast of the document image, cutting out a desired image block from the document image, and temporarily storing the image block in the trimming image link destination; Deleting the document image temporarily stored in the original image link destination,
The image feature module
Finding a feature point in the image data, calculating the number of feature points, and selecting and calling a corresponding sub-module according to the number of feature points,
The image stitching module
The image block temporarily stored at the trimming image link destination is taken out, the same feature point existing in different image blocks is found, and different image blocks are stitched in order by the same feature point, and a single page document image is obtained. Performing the forming step
The method for operating a document scanning device according to claim 19, characterized in that: The method of claim 19, wherein the communication information is one-way communication information.

Images