JP2022046741A - Image processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reliably cut out a document placed on a document stand, obtain an individual image of a document with an easy operation, and reduce the user's operational burden for reading the document.

SOLUTION: An image processing device includes a document stand on which a document to be read is placed, an image input unit that reads a plurality of documents placed on the document stand at once, a storage unit that stores the entire image data including individual images of the documents read in a batch, an individual image cutout unit that cuts out individual images of the plurality of documents from the entire image data, and an output unit that generates information in a predetermined output format for each of the individual images and sends the information via a network.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

COPYRIGHT: (C)2022,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing device, and more particularly to an image processing device having a function of simultaneously reading a plurality of documents and cutting out image data for each document from the read image data.

Conventionally, an image forming apparatus has been used, but in recent years, a multifunction device having a document reading (scanning) function and a network connection function in addition to a document duplication function has been used.
For example, in a compound machine, multiple manuscripts such as business cards, licenses, receipts, other documents and cards are placed on the manuscript stand so that they do not overlap, the scanning function is executed, and the image data of the multiple manuscripts is included. Some have a function of reading the entire image data and cutting out a plurality of independent image data corresponding to each original from the scanned overall image data (hereinafter referred to as a multi-crop scan function).

Further, in Patent Document 1, considering that image data partially missing depending on the color and material of the original to be read has been acquired in the past, image data (crop image) of a plurality of originals is obtained from the scan data obtained by reading. ) Is extracted, a predetermined reference area size is determined based on the sizes of a plurality of cropped images, and the parameters used for detecting the cropped image are changed for the cropped image determined to be smaller than the reference area size. Described is an image processing apparatus that improves the accuracy of multi-crop processing by executing crop adjustment processing in which cropping processing is performed again.

Further, normally, glass is fitted in the reading area of the platen on which the original is placed, but when the image data of the entire reading area of the document table is read, 1 including the peripheral edge of the glass. It may be read as one whole image data. At this time, the image data of the peripheral edge of the glass included in the scanned overall image data may be recognized as the outline of one document, and the image data inside the edge of the overall image data is 1. It is cut out as an image corresponding to one manuscript, and each manuscript placed on the manuscript stand fails to be cut out.
Therefore, when performing multi-crop scan, scan operation is performed with the document holder cover open, and black image data (black frame image) is embedded in the peripheral edge area (outer frame area) in the scanned overall image data. After preventing false detection of the peripheral edge of the entire image data as a document, the image data corresponding to each document placed on the platen is cut out.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2008-113075

However, in the apparatus of Patent Document 1, even if the accuracy of the range for cutting out each document placed on the platen can be improved, the image inside the peripheral edge of the glass in the read overall image data is obtained. If the data is cut out as an image corresponding to one manuscript, it is not possible to cut out an individual image for each manuscript.

In addition, when scanning is performed with the document holder cover open and a black frame image is embedded in the outer frame area (called the multi-crop function) as in the above-mentioned conventional technology, the document to be read such as a document or receipt is entirely white. If the document has a large area, each document can be cut out normally with almost no problem. However, if the document to be read has many black areas as a whole, when the black frame image is embedded in the outer frame area, the outline of each document may not be recognized accurately. For documents with many black areas as a whole, the outline of each document should be recognizable by closing the document holder cover and then scanning, but since the black frame image is embedded, the black frame image is displayed. Of the entire image data included, the image data inside the outer frame area is cut out as an image corresponding to one original, and as a result, cutting out of each original fails.

On the other hand, for a document such as a photograph in which the document to be read has a large black area as a whole or a document with a dark color, the scanning operation is performed after closing the document holding cover, and the area at the peripheral end in the scanned overall image data ( By embedding white image data (white frame image) in the outer frame area (called the photo crop function), each document can be cut out normally. However, if the white frame image is not embedded, the image data inside the outer frame region of the entire image data including the peripheral edge of the glass may be cut out as an image corresponding to one original.

Further, even if it is a photograph, if a document having a large white area as a whole or a document having a light color is used and the document holding cover is closed and the scanning operation is performed, the outline of each document may not be recognized accurately.
For documents with many white areas as a whole, the outline of each document should be recognizable by scanning with the document holder cover open, but the white frame image is embedded in the outer frame area. In addition, out of the entire image data including the white frame image, the image data in the outer frame area is cut out as an image corresponding to one original, and as a result, the cutting of each original fails.

Also, even if you fail to cut out each document using the multi-crop function as described above, you may succeed in cutting out each document by using the photo crop function, and conversely, use the photo crop function. Even if the cutting of each document fails, the multi-crop function may be used to successfully cut out each document.
However, in the past, the user had to set in advance which of the multi-crop function and the photo crop function to use, and if the original could not be cut out, it was necessary to switch the setting. The burden on the operation is heavy. The opening and closing of the document holding cover is performed by the user's operation, but the user performs the function setting operation after understanding in advance the correspondence between the multi-crop function and the photo crop function and the opening and closing of the document holding cover. There is a problem that it is necessary to perform and the operation for using the multi-crop scan function is difficult to understand.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and is inside the outer frame area of the entire image data including the peripheral end area (outer frame area) of the reading area of the platen. It is possible to prevent false detection of the image as one document, and to correspond to the opening / closing operation of the document holding cover performed by the user, and to acquire individual image data corresponding to one or more scanned documents with a simple operation. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing device capable of reducing the operational burden on the user.

The present invention includes a manuscript table on which a document to be read is placed, an image input unit for collectively reading a plurality of documents placed on the manuscript stand, and an entire image including an individual image of the collectively read manuscript. A storage unit that stores data, an individual image cutout unit that cuts out individual images of a plurality of originals from the entire image data, and an output that generates information in a predetermined output format for each individual image and transmits it via a network. It provides an image processing apparatus characterized by having a unit.

Further, in the present invention, a platen on which a document to be read is placed, a document holder that holds a document placed on the platen, and an image for collectively reading one or a plurality of documents placed on the platen. The input unit, the storage unit that stores the entire image data including the individual images of the collectively read documents, the document holder open / close detection unit that detects the open / closed state of the document holder, and the overall image data. A frame image addition part that adds a frame image of a predetermined color to the peripheral edge of the platen and an outer frame area having a predetermined width corresponding to the detected open / closed state of the document holder, and the outside. The frame image addition portion includes an individual image cutout portion for cutting out an individual image of one or a plurality of originals from the entire image data after the frame image is added to the frame region, and the frame image addition portion is a black image in the outer frame region. Provided is an image processing apparatus characterized by comprising a black frame image addition unit for adding a black frame image composed of data and a white frame image addition unit for adding a white frame image composed of white image data to the outer frame region. It is a thing.

When the document holder opening / closing detection unit detects that the document holder is in the open state, the black frame image addition unit adds a black frame image to the outer frame area of the entire image data and opens / closes the document holder. When the detection unit detects that the document holder is in the closed state, the white frame image addition unit adds a white frame image to the outer frame region of the entire image data.

Further, when a display unit is further provided and the individual image cutting unit cannot cut out an individual image of the original from the entire image data after the frame image is added, the document holder is in the closed state. If this is the case, the display indicates that the document holder should be opened and read again, or if the document holder is in the open state, the document holder should be closed and read again. This is displayed on the display unit, and when the document holder open / close detection unit detects that the open / close state of the document holder has been changed, the image input unit displays the document placed on the document stand. It is characterized by reading all at once.

Further, a document edge detection unit that detects the contour of an individual image corresponding to the document from the entire image data after removing the image data in the outer frame region from the entire image data stored in the storage unit is further added. When the contour of the individual image corresponding to the document can be detected by the document edge detection unit, the position of the individual image is specified from the detected contour of the individual image, and the position of the individual image cutout unit is set. It is characterized by cutting out a specified individual image.

Further, among the entire image data stored in the storage unit, a document edge detection unit that detects the contour of an individual image corresponding to the document from the entire image data after the frame image is added to the outer frame area. Further, when the contour of the individual image corresponding to the document can be detected by the document edge detection unit, the position of the individual image is specified from the detected contour of the individual image, and the individual image cutout unit is positioned. Is characterized by cutting out the specified individual image.

Further, the present invention is an image processing method of an image processing apparatus provided with a platen on which a document to be read is placed, wherein one or a plurality of documents placed on the platen are collectively read and described in a batch. The entire image data including the individual image of the scanned document is stored, and the image data of the outer frame region having a predetermined width at the peripheral end of the document table is removed from the overall image data, and the outer frame is removed. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing method of an image processing apparatus, which comprises cutting out individual images of one or a plurality of originals from the whole image data after removing the image data of a region.

Further, the present invention is an image processing method of an image processing apparatus provided with a document table on which a document to be read is placed and a document holder for pressing the document placed on the document table, and is mounted on the document table. One or a plurality of originals are collectively read, the entire image data including the individual images of the collectively read originals is stored, and the open / closed state of the original holder when the said originals are collectively read is detected. A frame image of a predetermined color is added to the outer frame region of the entire image data, which is the peripheral end of the document table and has a predetermined width, in correspondence with the detected open / closed state of the document holder. It consists of cutting out individual images of one or more originals from the entire image data after the frame image is added to the outer frame area, and when the open / closed state of the original holder is detected, the original holder is in the open state. When it is detected, a black frame image is added to the outer frame area of the whole image data, and when it is detected that the document holder is in the closed state, a white frame image is added to the outer frame area of the whole image data. It provides an image processing method of an image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

According to the present invention, the image data of the outer frame region having a predetermined width at the peripheral end of the platen is removed from the entire image data including the individual images of the documents read collectively, and the outer frame region is used. Since the individual images of one or more originals are cut out from the whole image data after removing the image data of the above, it is possible to prevent the image inside the outer frame area from being erroneously detected as one original, and the user can use the user. With a simple operation, individual images corresponding to one or more scanned documents can be acquired.

Further, a frame image of a predetermined color is added to the outer frame area of the entire image data, which is the peripheral end of the platen and has a predetermined width, in accordance with the detected open / closed state of the document holder. Since individual images of one or more originals are cut out from the entire image data after the frame image is added to the frame area, it is possible to prevent the image inside the outer frame area from being erroneously detected as one original and to prevent false detection. In correspondence with the opening and closing operation of the document holding cover performed by the user, individual images corresponding to one or a plurality of scanned documents can be acquired by a simple operation, and the operation burden on the user can be reduced.

It is a block diagram of the block of the example of the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example of the reading area and the document arrangement of the document stand in the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example which acquires the image data of an individual image after removing the outer frame area image in the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example in the case of acquiring the image data of an individual image after removing the outer frame area image in the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example which acquired the image data of an individual image after adding the black frame image to the outer frame area in the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example which acquired the image data of an individual image after adding the white frame image to the outer frame area in the image processing apparatus of this invention. An explanatory diagram of an embodiment of the information stored in the storage unit of the image processing apparatus of the present invention is shown. It is a flowchart of one Embodiment of the reading image processing of the original | document in the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Embodiment of the reading image processing of the original | document in the image processing apparatus of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Embodiment of the reading image processing of the original | document in the image processing apparatus of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the description of the following examples does not limit the present invention.
<Configuration of image processing device>
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the image processing apparatus of the present invention.

The image processing device (hereinafter referred to as MFP: Multifunction Peripheral, also referred to as a multifunction device) 1 is a device for processing image data, for example, a copying function, a printing function, a document reading function (scan function), a fax function, a communication function, and the like. It is an electronic device equipped with.
In particular, in the present invention, a predetermined image processing is executed by utilizing the document scanning function.

In order to perform the document scanning function, the image processing apparatus includes a platen on which the document to be scanned is placed.
Further, a flat plate-shaped document holding cover (hereinafter referred to as a plate-shaped document holding cover) which is a member for holding a document from above so that one or a plurality of documents placed on the platen does not move and has an area slightly larger than the reading area of the platen. , Simply referred to as "manuscript holder"). The document holder is attached to the platen so that it can be opened and closed.
Further, a member such as glass that transmits light is arranged in the reading area of the platen.

The user places one or more originals on the platen so that the originals fit within the scanning area of the platen, and performs a predetermined scanning start operation on one of the scanning surfaces of the originals. Read the described information as an image. The shape of the reading area of the platen shall be rectangular.
When performing the scanning process, the document holder is used in either the open state or the closed state with respect to the scanning area of the platen. The user performs the opening and closing operation of the document holder.

The closed state means that the document holder is arranged so as to cover the scanning area of the document table, and the light applied to the scanning area of the document table for the scanning process is reflected by the document holder and the document. As a result, the original is read.
The open state means that the document holder is arranged so as not to cover the scanning area of the document table, and the area of the light irradiated to the scanning area of the document table for the scanning process without the document is selected. The transmitted light travels straight without being reflected by the document holder, and the document is read by using the light reflected by the document placed on the platen.

In FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus (MFP) 1 of the present invention mainly includes a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, an image input unit 13, a display unit 14, an output unit 15, a document holding open / close detection unit 16, and a document edge detection unit. 17. Individual image coordinate acquisition unit 18, individual image cutout unit 19, outer frame area removal unit 20, frame image addition unit 30, and storage unit 50 are provided.
The frame image addition unit 30 includes a black frame image addition unit 31 and a white frame image addition unit 32.

The control unit 11 is a part that controls the operation of each component such as an image input unit, and is mainly realized by a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an I / O controller, a timer, and the like.
The CPU organically operates various hardware based on a control program stored in advance in a ROM or the like to execute the image input function, the individual image cutout function, and the like of the present invention.

The operation unit 12 is a part for inputting information such as characters and selecting and inputting a function, and for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or the like is used.

The image input unit 13 is a part for inputting image information, and in the present invention, it is a part for collectively reading one or a plurality of documents placed on a platen.
For example, input information such as a manuscript containing an image, a character figure, or the like. The input information is stored in the storage unit 50 as electronic data.
As the image input unit 13, a scanner (reading device) for reading a manuscript document (hereinafter referred to as a manuscript) on which information is printed is used.
There are various methods for inputting image information. For example, a document on which information is printed is scanned by a scanner, and electronic data of the entire reading area of the platen including the document is input to the storage unit 50 as a whole. Store as image data.

However, the method for inputting information such as an image is not limited to the above, and for example, an interface for connecting an external storage medium such as a USB memory corresponds to the image input unit 13.
An electronic data file such as an image or a document to be input is saved in an external storage medium such as a USB memory, the USB memory or the like is connected to an input interface such as a USB terminal, and a predetermined input operation is performed by the operation unit 12. As a result, a desired electronic data file stored in a USB memory or the like may be read out and stored as electronic data in the storage unit 50.

Further, in general, when scanning a document with a scanner, the user places the document on a predetermined document table (also referred to as a document table) and performs an input operation meaning to start scanning. When scanning is started, the entire scanning area (reading surface) of the platen is usually scanned as one electronic data. When the size of the original is smaller than the reading area of the platen, the scanned electronic data (whole image data) includes the image of the original, but also includes the information of the portion without the original. In the present invention, as will be described later, the individual image cutting unit 19 cuts out the image data (individual image) of the portion where the original is present from one electronic data (whole image data) read.

In addition, the reading area of the manuscript stand is usually about the same size as A4 paper or A3 paper, so the size of business cards, postcards, photographs, health insurance cards, credit cards, etc. is smaller than the reading area of the manuscript stand. A plurality of originals can be arranged side by side on the platen so that they do not overlap.
Even when a plurality of documents arranged side by side on the platen are scanned by a scanner, the scanned information is generated and stored as one electronic data (whole image data) as described above. In this case, since the overall image data includes image data (individual images) of a plurality of originals, image data (individual images) of a plurality of originals are cut out from the read overall image data.

However, the scanned overall image data includes an image of a peripheral end region (outer frame region) in the scanning region of the platen, but in the present invention, the image in the scanning region of the platen is included. Of the entire image data read by the image in the peripheral edge area (outer frame area), the entire image read so that the image data inside the outer frame area is not cut out as an image for one document. After performing a predetermined image process on the data, the image data (individual image) of the original is cut out.
Here, the outer frame area means an area having a predetermined width at the peripheral end of the document table, and when the reading area of the document table on which the document is placed is rectangular, FIG. 7 (a) described later. ), It is a region near the inside of the four sides of the rectangle and having a predetermined width W.

The image processing performed on the read whole image data includes, for example, removing an image of a predetermined outer frame area from the whole image data, or depending on the opening / closing status of the document holder, a predetermined of the whole image data. It is included to add a black frame image or a white image to the outer frame area. Details of these image processes will be described later.

The display unit 14 is a part for displaying information, and displays information necessary for executing each function, the result of executing the function, and the like in order to inform the user. For example, when an LCD, an organic EL display, or the like is used and a touch panel is used as the operation unit 12, the display unit and the touch panel are arranged so as to overlap each other.

In the present invention, as will be described later, when the individual image cutting unit 19 cannot cut out the individual image of the original from the entire image data after the frame image is added, the original image holder is in the closed state. In this case, the display unit 14 indicates that the document holder is opened and scanning is performed again. Ask the user who sees this display to release the document holder.
Alternatively, if the individual image of the original cannot be cut out and the original retainer is in the open state, the display unit 14 indicates that the original retainer is closed and the image is read again. Ask the user who sees this display to close the document holder.
After that, when the document holder open / close detection unit 16 detects that the open / close state of the document holder has been changed, the image input unit 13 again collectively reads the documents placed on the platen.

The output unit 15 is a part that outputs image information generated from individual images, and corresponds to, for example, a printer that prints and outputs image information on a paper medium.
Further, when there are a plurality of cut individual images, the output unit 15 synthesizes several individual images based on the information of the preset output method, for example, and forms one sheet of paper as one image information. Print on.
However, the output of information is not limited to printing, and may be storage of information in an external storage medium such as a USB memory or transmission of information to another information processing device or server via a network such as the Internet. ..

The document holder open / close detection unit 16 is a portion that detects the open / closed state of the document holder.
That is, it detects whether the document holder is currently in the open state or the closed state. As the document holding open / close detecting unit 16, for example, a push button switch is used.
The push button switch (hereinafter, also referred to as an open / close detection switch) is provided on the document table that comes into contact with the document holder when the document holder is closed. When the document holder is closed, the push button switch is used. , It shall be in a pressed state.
When the document holder is open, the push button switch is not pressed.

That is, when the push button switch is in the pressed state, it is detected that the document holder is in the closed state (the document holder is closed).
On the other hand, when the push button switch is not in the pressed state, it is detected that the document holder is in the open state (the document holder is open).
When it is detected that the document holder is in the closed state, information indicating that the document holder is in the closed state (for example, 0: closed) is stored as opening / closing information of the storage unit 50, as will be described later.
When it is detected that the document holder is in the open state, information (for example, 1: open) indicating that the document holder is in the open state is stored as open / close information of the storage unit 50, as will be described later. ..

The document edge detection unit 17 is a portion that detects the contour (edge) of the individual image corresponding to the document from the entire image data acquired by the image input unit 13.
As a method for detecting the contour of an individual image, any conventionally used method may be used.
If the manuscript is rectangular, the contours of the individual images corresponding to the manuscript are detected as information that can identify the four sides of the rectangle.
When there are a plurality of documents to be read, the contours of a plurality of individual images are detected from the entire image data.

Further, in the present invention, in order to improve the detection accuracy of the contour of the individual image, as will be described later, the whole image data after removing the image data of the outer frame region from the whole image data stored in the storage unit. From, the contour of the individual image corresponding to the original is detected.
Alternatively, of the entire image data stored in the storage unit, the contour of the individual image corresponding to the original is detected from the overall image data after the frame image is added to the outer frame area.

When the contour of the individual image corresponding to the document can be detected by the document edge detection unit 17, the position of the individual image is specified from the detected contour of the individual image, and the position of the individual image cutting unit 19 is set. Cut out the specified individual image.
However, if the contour of the individual image corresponding to the original cannot be detected, the position of the individual image cannot be specified from the detected contour of the individual image, and the individual image cannot be cut out.

The individual image coordinate acquisition unit 18 is a portion that acquires the position of the individual image to be cut out by using the information for specifying the contour of the individual image detected by the document edge detection unit 17.
In particular, the coordinate values indicating the positions of the individual images to be cut out with respect to the reading area of the platen are acquired. The coordinate value indicating the position of the individual image to be cut out is the coordinate that defines the position of the document placed in the reading area of the document table, and is called the document vertex position coordinate.
The document vertex position coordinates are the X coordinate and the Y coordinate in the XY coordinate system set in the reading area of the document table, and when the document is a rectangle, it is composed of the XY coordinate values of the four vertices of the rectangle.

FIG. 2 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment of a reading area of a platen and a method of placing a document.
FIG. 2 (a-1) shows the reading area of the platen. The reading area of the platen shall be a horizontally long rectangle.
FIG. 2 (a-2) shows an example of the XY coordinate values of the four vertices that define the reading area of the platen.
In FIG. 2 (a-2), the reading area of the platen is a rectangle consisting of four vertices (a1, a2, a3, a4), and as shown in the figure, the vertex a1 of the rectangle is set as the origin of the XY coordinate system. , Set the long side direction of the rectangle to the X axis and the short side direction of the rectangle to the Y axis.
In this case, the positions of the four vertices (a1, a2, a3, a4) of the rectangle corresponding to the reading area of the platen are represented by the XY coordinate values as shown in FIG. 2 (a-2).

FIG. 2 (a-3) shows an example in which two documents (P1 and P2) are arranged in the reading area of the document table.
The arrangement of the two documents is not limited to the one shown in the drawing, and may be any position as long as it is within the reading area of the platen. Further, the number of documents to be arranged is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more.

FIG. 2A-4 shows an outline of an example of the whole image data acquired by the image input unit 13. As shown in FIG. 2 (a-3), when two originals (P1 and P2) are arranged and scanning is performed normally, the positions of the respective originals are relative to each original (P1 and P2). Image data of individual images is acquired.
Further, FIG. 2A-4 shows that the acquired overall image data includes the peripheral end portion of the reading area of the platen as an image of the outer frame area. In FIG. 2 (a-4), the image of the outer frame area is emphasized in order to explain that the image of the outer frame area may be included in the whole image data, but it is actually shown. Does not acquire such a clear image of the outer frame area.

However, if an image of such a clear outer frame area is acquired, when an individual image is cut out, the part of this outer frame area is recognized as the outline of one document, and the entire image data is one. It will be cut out as an individual image of the original. That is, the portions of the two manuscripts (P1, P2) included in the whole image data are considered to be the images inside the one manuscript and are not cut out as individual images. Therefore, in the present invention, in order to recognize the portion of the outer frame region as the outline of one original and prevent the entire image data from being cut out as an individual image of one original, the read overall image data Image processing as described later is performed on the outer frame area.

FIG. 2A-5 shows an example of the relationship between the reading area of the platen and the coordinate position of the original when two originals are placed in the scanning area of the platen.
In FIG. 2 (a-5), the manuscript P1 is a rectangular portion surrounded by four vertices (P1, P2, P3, P4), and the manuscript P2 has four vertices (P5, P6, P7, P8). It is a rectangular part surrounded by.
The individual image coordinate acquisition unit 18 acquires the position coordinates (manuscript vertex position coordinates) of these eight vertices by using the information for specifying the contour of the individual image detected by the document edge detection unit 17.
The position coordinates of these eight vertices (manuscript vertex position coordinates) are represented by XY coordinate values in the same XY coordinate system as the reading area of the platen.
As will be described later, the document vertex position coordinates are stored in the storage unit 50 as information for specifying the individual image to be cut out (individual image information).

The individual image cutting unit 19 is a portion for cutting out individual images of one or a plurality of documents that have been collectively read. For example, the image data of the scanned document portion is cut out from the entire image data input by the image input unit 13. The image data of the scanned original part is called an individual image.
The individual image is cut out by using the coordinate values (manuscript vertex position coordinates) indicating the positions of the four vertices of the individual image acquired by the individual image coordinate acquisition unit 18.
The image data of the portion surrounded by the positions of the four vertices is cut out from the entire image data and stored in the storage unit 50 as the image data of the individual images.

Further, in the present invention, in particular, individual images of one or a plurality of originals are cut out from the entire image data after removing the image data in the outer frame region.
Alternatively, individual images of one or more originals are cut out from the entire image data after the frame image as described later is added to the outer frame area.

When there is only one original to be read, the image data of the portion where the one original is present is extracted from the input whole image data.
Further, when a plurality of originals are arranged on the platen and scanned, the input overall image data includes the image data of the plurality of originals, so that the image of the portion where the plurality of originals exist is included. Extract each data.
For example, when four originals are arranged on a platen and read, image data corresponding to each of the four originals is extracted.
The function of cutting out an individual image by the individual image cutting unit 19 corresponds to a so-called multi-crop scan function, and a technique conventionally used may be used.

The outer frame area removing unit 20 is a portion that removes image data of a region (outer frame region) that is a peripheral end portion of the platen and has a predetermined width from the entire image data input by the image input unit 13. ..
As described above, in the outer frame area of the input overall image data, information such that the image data inside the peripheral end portion is cut out as an image corresponding to one original is acquired. In some cases. Therefore, on the premise that the original is not arranged in the outer frame region portion, the image data in the outer frame region portion is removed.
The entire image data after removing the image data in the outer frame region is temporarily stored in the storage unit 50 as the outer frame removed image data, as will be described later.

After removing the image data of the outer frame area, edge detection, acquisition of the position coordinates of the individual image, and cutting out of the individual image are performed on the image data inside the outer frame area.
In this way, by removing the image data of the outer frame region portion from the input overall image data before cutting out the individual image, the possibility of erroneous detection of the individual image can be reduced.

The size of the outer frame area to be removed is preset in the storage unit 50 as the outer frame area information, as will be described later.
For example, an area having a width of about W centimeters in the vicinity of the four sides defining the reading area inside the reading area of the rectangular platen is set as the size of the outer frame area. That is, the width W in the vicinity of the four sides is set in advance as the outer frame area information.
However, since the appropriate numerical value of the width W in the vicinity of the four sides that determines the outer frame area differs depending on the accuracy of the scanner that reads the image, it cannot be uniquely set, but as the numerical value of the width W, for example, 1 A value of about 3 mm may be set in advance.

Further, if the original is placed in the set outer frame area, the original cannot be cut out. Therefore, it is not preferable to set a very large value as the numerical value of the width W, and the individual image by the outer frame area. It is preferable to set a numerical value as small as possible to prevent false detection of.
The numerical value of the outer frame area information may be set to a fixed value in advance, for example, at the adjustment stage before shipment, but the image processing device administrator or maintenance worker can change the setting as necessary. You may do it. Also, each of the four locations may have different values.

Further, before arranging the original, the user may display the display unit 14 to warn that the original should be arranged on the inside, for example, at a distance of W mm or more from the periphery of the reading area of the platen. preferable.
When removing the image data of the outer frame area, erroneous detection of the individual image based on the image data of the outer frame area is eliminated, so that the image data of the outer frame area is not related to the open / closed state of the original holder. It suffices to remove the image, and it is not necessary to detect the opening / closing of the document holder.

The frame image addition unit 30 corresponds to the detected open / closed state of the document holder in the area (outer frame area) that is the peripheral end of the platen and has a predetermined width in the acquired overall image data. , A part to which a frame image of a predetermined color is added.
The frame image addition unit 30 is composed of a black frame image addition unit 31 that adds a black frame image composed of black image data to the outer frame region, and a white frame image addition unit 32 that adds a white frame image composed of white image data. Become.

The black frame image addition unit 31 is a portion that adds a black frame image, which is black image data, to a peripheral end region (outer frame region) of the entire image data input by the image input unit 13. The outer frame area to which the black frame image is added may be, for example, the same size as the above-mentioned outer frame area to be removed. However, the size of the outer frame area to which the black frame image is added may be set in advance separately from the size of the outer frame area to be removed.
In particular, when the document holder opening / closing detection unit 16 detects that the document holder is in the open state, a black frame image is added to the outer frame area of the entire image data.
Further, the black frame image is added after the entire image data is acquired and before the processing for cutting out the individual image including the edge detection.
The entire image data after the black frame image is added to the outer frame area is temporarily stored in the storage unit 50 as the black frame added image data, as will be described later.

That is, when the document holder opening / closing detection unit 16 detects that the document holder is open, a black frame image is added to the outer frame area regardless of the color or shading of the document.
When the document holder is open, the scanning light is transmitted in the part of the scanning area of the platen where there is no document, so that the part without the document is acquired as a blackish image in the entire image data, but it is scanned. The portion of the outer frame region of the region may be acquired as a lighter image than this blackish image, and the portion of the outer frame region may be erroneously recognized as the outline of one document. Therefore, if the portion of the outer frame region is made into a black image having the same shading as the portion without the original, it is possible to prevent the portion of the outer frame region from being accidentally cut out as one original.

The white frame image addition unit 32 is a portion that adds a white frame image, which is white image data, to a peripheral end region (outer frame region) of the entire image data input by the image input unit 13. The outer frame area to which the white frame image is added may be, for example, the same size as the above-mentioned outer frame area to be removed. However, the size of the outer frame area to which the white frame image is added may be set in advance separately from the size of the outer frame area to be removed.
In particular, when the document retainer open / close detection unit 16 detects that the document retainer is in the closed state, a white frame image is added to the outer frame area of the entire image data.
Further, the white frame image is added after the entire image data is acquired and before the processing for cutting out the individual image including the edge detection.
The entire image data after the white frame image is added to the outer frame area is temporarily stored in the storage unit 50 as the white frame additional image data, as will be described later.

That is, when the document holder opening / closing detection unit 16 detects that the document holder is closed, a white frame image is added to the outer frame area regardless of the color or shade of the document.
When the document holder is closed, the scanning light is reflected by the document holder in the part of the scanning area of the platen where there is no document, so that the part without the document is acquired as a whitish image in the entire image data. However, the portion of the outer frame region of the reading region may be acquired as a darker image than this whitish image, and the portion of the outer frame region may be erroneously recognized as the outline of one document. Therefore, if the portion of the outer frame region is made into a white image having the same shading as the portion without the original, it is possible to prevent the portion of the outer frame region from being accidentally cut out as one original.

The storage unit 50 is a part that stores information and programs necessary for executing each function of the image processing device of the present invention, and is a storage device such as a semiconductor storage element such as ROM, RAM, or flash memory, or an HDD or SSD. , Other storage media are used.
The storage unit 50 stores, for example, outer frame area information 51, open / close information 52, overall image data 53, outer frame removal image data 54, black frame additional image data 55, white frame additional image data 56, individual image information 57, and the like. Will be done.
FIG. 7 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment of the information stored in the storage unit 50 of the image processing apparatus.

As described above, the outer frame area information 51 is information for setting the size of the outer frame area, and for example, the numerical value of the width W of the outer frame area is set in advance.
As shown in FIG. 7A, the outer frame region is near the peripheral end of the reading region of the platen and is a square-shaped region having a width W.
FIG. 7 shows a case where 2 mm is set as the width W of the outer frame region.
However, the width W of the outer frame area is not limited to this numerical value, and other numerical values may be set, may be set as a fixed value, or the numerical value may be set and changed. May be good. Further, different values may be set for each of the four locations.

The open / close information 52 stores the current open / close status of the document holder, and a predetermined value is stored by the output from the open / close detection switch corresponding to the document holder open / close detection unit 16.
As shown in FIG. 7B, the open / close detection switch is provided at the end of the platen that can come into contact with the document holder. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the document holder is in the open state, a part of the open / close detection switch is projected above the surface of the platen, and the open / close detection switch is not in the pressed state.

On the other hand, when the document holder is closed and closed, the document holder pushes the open / close detection switch downward and retracts into the platen. For example, the contact of the open / close detection switch is closed and the document holder is in the closed state. A signal indicating that is output.
When the control unit 11 receives the signal indicating that the document holder is in the closed state, for example, a numerical value 0 indicating the closed state of the document holder is stored as the open / close information 52.
When the signal indicating that the document is in the closed state is not received, for example, the numerical value 1 indicating the open state of the document holder is stored as the open / close information 52.
Using this open / close information 52, a black frame image is added to the outer frame area or a white frame image is added to the outer frame area as described above, but it is automatically determined.

The whole image data 53 is image data input by the image input unit 13, and is data acquired from the entire reading area of the platen.
The whole image data 53 includes individual images of documents that have been collectively read, and also includes image data of an outer frame area.

The outer frame removal image data 54 is data obtained by removing the image data of the portion of the outer frame region from the entire image data 53.
The outer frame area removing unit 20 removes the image data of the outer frame area portion based on the preset outer frame area information 51, and generates the outer frame removing image data 54.
The outer frame removal image data 54 is smaller than the overall image data 53 and is data inside the outer frame region.
Using the outer frame removal image data 54 after removing the image data of the portion of the outer frame region, edge detection of the original and cutting out of individual images are performed.

The black frame added image data 55 is data in which a black black frame image is added to a portion of the outer frame region with respect to the entire image data 53.
That is, the black frame additional image data 55 is the data obtained by changing the image data of the outer frame region portion of the input overall image data 53 into a black frame image.

The white frame additional image data 56 is data in which a white white frame image is added to a portion of the outer frame region with respect to the entire image data 53.
That is, the white frame additional image data 56 is the data obtained by changing the image data of the outer frame region portion of the input overall image data 53 into a white frame image.

The individual image information 57 is information for each cut-out individual image, and is composed of, for example, an input image number, original document apex position coordinates, and image data.
FIG. 7C shows an example of individual image information 57 when two originals are arranged and individual images for the two originals are cut out, as shown in FIG.
In FIG. 7 (c), for example, the individual image having the input image number N01 is cut out from the position indicated by the original vertex position coordinates of the four vertices (P1, P2, P3, P4), and the image data named IMG001 is obtained. Indicates that it is stored as a file.

In addition, the individual image with the input image number N02 is cut out from the position indicated by the original vertex position coordinates of the four vertices (P5, P6, P7, P8) and stored as an image data file named IMG002. It is shown that.
When outputting an individual image, the image information to be output is generated by using the individual image information 57, and the output unit 15 performs output processing such as printing and transmission.

<Example of cutting out individual images>
The process of cutting out an individual image corresponding to each original from the input whole image data will be described below.
In the present invention, after performing any of the following image processing on the image data in the outer frame area of the input entire image data, an individual image is cut out and the image data of the individual image is acquired. do.

As a first embodiment of image processing, a process of removing image data in an outer frame region from the input overall image data is performed.
As a second embodiment of image processing, a process of adding a black frame image or a white frame image to the outer frame area of the input overall image data is performed. Here, when the document holder is in the open state, a black frame image is added to the outer frame area, while when the document holder is in the closed state, a white frame image is added to the outer frame area.

As for which of the two image processes to perform, for example, which image processing to perform may be initially set in advance at the initial stage when the user intends to use the image processing device.
Alternatively, as a general rule, the image processing of the first embodiment is initially set to be performed, and when the user wants to perform the image processing of the second embodiment, the image processing to be executed is performed by the second embodiment. You may perform an input operation to change to the image processing of. On the contrary, when the image processing of the second embodiment is initially set in advance and the image processing of the first embodiment is desired to be performed, the input for changing the image processing to be executed to the image processing of the first embodiment. You may operate it.

In addition, as a general rule, the image processing of the first embodiment is performed on the input entire image data to cut out the individual image, and when the individual image cannot be cut out successfully, automatically. The image processing of the second embodiment may be performed on the same input whole image data to cut out individual images. In this case as well, the order in which the two image processes are executed may be reversed.

(First Example)
FIG. 3 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment in which image data of an individual image is acquired after the outer frame region image is removed.
FIG. 3 shows a case where the entire image data is acquired with the document retainer open (in the open state).
Mainly, when scanning a document having many white portions, it is preferable to perform scanning with the document retainer open in order to improve the accuracy of cutting individual images.

FIG. 3A-1 shows, as an example, a state in which two originals (P1 and P2) are arranged so as not to overlap in the reading area of the platen in order to read two originals at the same time. ..
As described above, when the user performs an input operation meaning to start scanning with the document holder open after arranging the two documents, the entire scanning area of the document table is scanned.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 3A-2, the image input unit 13 acquires the entire image data. The whole image data includes individual images of two originals, and may also include an image around the end of the reading area of the platen.

After that, the outer frame area removing unit 20 performs a process of removing the outer frame area image.
FIG. 3 (a-3) shows a schematic example of an image (outer frame area image) in a portion corresponding to the outer frame area in the reading area of the platen.
The size of the outer frame area is specified by the above-mentioned outer frame area information 51, and the size is such that the image of the peripheral end portion of the reading area of the platen is sufficiently included in the outer frame area. ..
The outer frame area image included in this outer frame area is removed from the acquired whole image data.

FIG. 3 (a-4) shows the whole image data after removing the outer frame region image of FIG. 3 (a-3) from the whole image data of FIG. 3 (a-2).
The broken line in FIG. 3A-4 indicates the reading area of the platen, and the solid line is the entire image data after the outer frame area image is removed.
Even if the acquired overall image data includes an image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen, if the image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen is included in the outer frame area image, it is outside this range. The entire image data after removing the frame area image does not include the image of the peripheral edge of the reading area of the document table, which causes erroneous detection of the document.

Next, for the entire image data after removing the outer frame area image as shown in FIG. 3 (a-4), the processing of edge detection, position detection (coordinate acquisition) of the individual image, and cutting out of the individual image is performed. It is done in order.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 3A-5, the image data after cutting the individual image is acquired.
For example, the image data of the individual image g1 is acquired for the document P1, and the image data of the individual image g2 is acquired for the document P2.

As described above, when the scanning process is performed with the document retainer open, the individual image is cut out using the entire image data after removing the outer frame area image. Therefore, the outer frame area is used. It is possible to prevent erroneous detection of the image inside the image as one original.
Although FIG. 3 shows a case where individual images of two originals are cut out at the same time, the number of originals to be read is not limited to two, and the same image processing can be performed regardless of whether the number of originals is one or three or more. By doing so, individual images of each document can be cut out at the same time.

FIG. 4 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment in which the image data of the individual image is acquired after the outer frame region image is removed.
FIG. 4 shows a case where the entire image data is acquired after the document holder is closed (in the closed state), unlike FIG.
When scanning a document having many dark-colored portions such as black, it is preferable to perform scanning with the document retainer closed in order to improve the accuracy of cutting individual images.

In FIG. 4 (a-1), similarly to FIG. 3 (a-1), in order to read two originals at the same time, the two originals (P1 and P2) are not overlapped in the reading area of the platen. It shows the state of being placed in.
The user closes the document holder after arranging the document to be read.
FIG. 4A-2 shows a schematic view of the state in which the document holder is closed after the document to be read is placed, as viewed from above the document holder. The scanning area of the platen is covered by the document holder, and the scanning light emitted from below the platen toward the document holder is reflected by the document holder and the document, and image data of the entire scanning area of the document stand is acquired. To.

After that, when the user performs an input operation meaning to start scanning, a process of scanning the entire scanning area of the platen is performed.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 4A-3, the image input unit 13 acquires the entire image data. The whole image data includes individual images of two originals, and may also include an image of a peripheral end portion of a reading area of a platen.

After that, in the same manner as shown in FIG. 3, the outer frame region removing unit 20 performs a process of removing the outer frame region image.
FIG. 4 (a-4) shows a schematic example of an image (outer frame region image) in a portion corresponding to the same outer frame region as that shown in FIG. 3 (a-3).
The outer frame area image included in this outer frame area is removed from the acquired whole image data.

FIG. 4 (a-5) shows the whole image data after removing the outer frame region image of FIG. 4 (a-4) from the whole image data of FIG. 4 (a-3).
The broken line in FIG. 4A-5 indicates the reading area of the platen, and the solid line is the entire image data after the outer frame area image is removed.
When the image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen is included in the outer frame area image, the entire image data after removing the outer frame area image is the scanning of the document table which causes false detection of the original. Images of the peripheral edges of the area are not included.

Next, for the entire image data after removing the outer frame area image as shown in FIG. 4 (a-5), the processing of edge detection, position detection of individual image (coordinate acquisition), and cutting out of individual image is performed. It is done in order.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 4A-6, the image data after cutting the individual image is acquired.
Also in FIG. 4 (a-6), similarly to FIG. 3 (a-5), for example, the image data of the individual image g1 is acquired for the document P1, and the image data of the individual image g2 is acquired for the document P2. Is obtained.

As described above, even when the scanning process is performed after the document holder is closed, the individual image is cut out using the entire image data after the outer frame area image is removed, so that the outer frame is performed. It is possible to prevent the image inside the area from being erroneously detected as one document.

(Second Example)
FIG. 5 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment in which image data of an individual image is acquired after a black frame image is added to the outer frame area.
FIG. 5 shows a case where the entire image data is acquired with the document holder open (in the open state) as in FIG.

FIG. 5 (a-1) is the same drawing as FIG. 3 (a-1), and shows a state in which two original sheets are arranged in the reading area of the platen.
After arranging the two originals, when the user performs an input operation meaning to start scanning with the original holder open, a process of scanning the entire scanning area of the platen is performed.
FIG. 5 (a-2) is the same drawing as FIG. 3 (a-2), and shows the whole image data acquired by the image input unit 13. The whole image data includes individual images of two originals, and may also include an image of a peripheral end portion of a reading area of a platen.

After that, the black frame image addition unit 31 performs a process of adding a black frame image to the outer frame area of the entire image data.
FIG. 5A-3 shows a schematic example of a black frame image to be added to a portion corresponding to an outer frame area in the reading area of the platen.
The size of the outer frame area is specified by the above-mentioned outer frame area information 51, and the size is such that the image of the peripheral end portion of the reading area of the platen is sufficiently included in the outer frame area.
In the acquired whole image data, the image data of the portion of the outer frame area is changed to the black frame image.

FIG. 5 (a-4) shows the whole image data after adding the black frame image of FIG. 5 (a-3) to the outer frame area of the whole image data of FIG. 5 (a-2).
The entire image data after the black frame image is added is composed of the image data inside the outer frame area and the black frame image added to the outer frame area.
Even if the acquired overall image data includes an image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen, if the image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen is included in the outer frame area, this is the case. The overall image data after the black frame image is added to the outer frame area does not include the image of the peripheral edge of the reading area of the document table, which causes erroneous detection of the document.

Next, for the entire image data after adding the black frame image as shown in FIG. 5 (a-4), edge detection, position detection of the individual image (coordinate acquisition), and cutting out of the individual image are performed in this order. Will be. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5 (a-5), the image data after cutting the individual image is acquired.
For example, the image data of the individual image g1 is acquired for the document P1, and the image data of the individual image g2 is acquired for the document P2.

As described above, when the scanning process is performed with the document retainer open, the individual image is cut out using the entire image data after the black frame image is added, so that the inside of the outer frame area is used. It is possible to prevent erroneous detection of the above image as one original.

FIG. 6 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment in which image data of an individual image is acquired after a white frame image is added to the outer frame area.
FIG. 6 shows a case where the entire image data is acquired after the document holder is closed (in the closed state), unlike FIG.
When scanning a document having many dark-colored portions such as black, it is preferable to perform scanning with the document retainer closed in order to improve the accuracy of cutting individual images.

FIG. 6 (a-1) shows a state in which two original documents (P1 and P2) are arranged so as not to overlap with each other in the reading area of the platen as in FIG. 4 (a-1).
The user closes the document holder after arranging the document to be read.
FIG. 6A-2 shows a schematic view of the state in which the document holder is closed after the document to be read is placed, as seen from above the document holder, as in FIG. 4A-2.

After that, when the user performs an input operation meaning to start scanning, a process of scanning the entire scanning area of the platen is performed.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 6A-3, the image input unit 13 acquires the entire image data.
FIG. 6 (a-3) is the same drawing as FIG. 4 (a-3), and shows the whole image data acquired by the image input unit 13. The whole image data includes individual images of two originals, and may also include an image of a peripheral end portion of a reading area of a platen.

After that, the white frame image addition unit 32 performs a process of adding a white frame image to the outer frame area of the entire image data.
FIG. 6 (a-4) shows a schematic example of a white frame image to be added to a portion corresponding to an outer frame area in the reading area of the platen.
The size of the outer frame area is specified by the above-mentioned outer frame area information 51, and the size is such that the image of the peripheral end portion of the reading area of the platen is sufficiently included in the outer frame area.
In the acquired whole image data, the image data of the portion of the outer frame area is changed to the white frame image.

FIG. 6 (a-5) shows the whole image data after adding the white frame image of FIG. 6 (a-4) to the outer frame area of the whole image data of FIG. 6 (a-3).
The entire image data after the white frame image is added is composed of the image data inside the outer frame area and the white frame image added to the outer frame area.
Even if the acquired overall image data includes an image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen, if the image of the peripheral edge of the scanning area of the platen is included in the outer frame area, this is the case. The overall image data after the white frame image is added to the outer frame area does not include the image of the peripheral edge of the reading area of the document table, which causes erroneous detection of the document.

Next, for the entire image data after adding the white frame image as shown in FIG. 6 (a-5), the processing of edge detection, position detection of individual image (coordinate acquisition), and cutting out of individual image is performed in this order. Will be done. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6A-6, the image data after cutting the individual image is acquired.
For example, the image data of the individual image g1 is acquired for the document P1, and the image data of the individual image g2 is acquired for the document P2.

As described above, when the scanning process is performed after the document holder is closed, the individual image is cut out using the entire image data after the white frame image is added. It is possible to prevent the internal image from being erroneously detected as one original.

<Flow chart of scanned image processing of the first embodiment>
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of a document reading image processing for the above-mentioned first embodiment in the image processing apparatus of the present invention.
Here, as in the first embodiment described above, a process of removing an outer frame region image from the acquired overall image data and cutting out an individual image of each document will be described.
First, in order to perform a process of cutting out an individual image of each document placed on the platen, for example, the user uses the operation unit 12 to provide a crop function among the functions of the image processing device to execute this process. Make the input you want to select.

In step S1 of FIG. 8, the control unit 11 checks whether or not the crop function for executing the process of cutting out the individual image of each document has been selected and input.
If the crop function is selected and input in step S2, the process proceeds to step S3, and if not, the process returns to step S1.

In step S3, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 information indicating that the document to be read can be placed on the platen.
At this time, if the document to be scanned is a document with many whitish colors, it is better to start scanning with the document holder open, or if the document is a dark document such as a photograph, after closing the document holder, It is also preferable to display at the same time that it is better to start reading.
The user sees such a display, arranges the original in the reading area of the platen, and means that the original holder is opened or the original holder is closed according to the original, and then the reading of the original is started. Perform an input operation.

In step S4, the control unit 11 checks whether or not the user has performed an input operation indicating the start of reading the document.
If there is an input indicating the start of scanning the original in step S5, the process proceeds to step S6, and if not, the process returns to step S4.
In step S6, the image input unit 13 scans the entire reading area of the reading area of the document table, acquires the image data of the entire reading area, and temporarily stores the image data as the entire image data 53 in the storage unit 50.

In step S7, the outer frame area removing unit 20 removes the outer frame area image from the acquired overall image data.
To remove the outer frame area image, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 described above, the image data (outer frame area image) of the outer frame area portion set by the outer frame area information 51 is removed from the entire image data. Remove.

In step S8, the document edge detection unit 17 detects the edge of the individual image from the entire image data after removing the outer frame region image.
If the original is a rectangle, the four sides of the rectangle corresponding to the outline of the original are detected by the difference in the shade of the image data between the original and the portion without the original.

In step S9, the individual image coordinate acquisition unit 18 acquires the position coordinates of the four vertices of the individual image by using the four sides of the rectangle corresponding to the contour of the document detected by the document edge detection unit 17. It is stored as the original vertex position coordinates of the individual image.
When a plurality of documents are arranged, the document vertex position coordinates of the individual images corresponding to each document are stored. For example, as the individual image information 57, the input image number of each individual image and the document vertex position coordinates are stored in association with each other.

In step S10, the individual image cutting unit 19 cuts out the individual image of each original from the whole image data by using the document vertex position coordinates of the stored individual image.
The image data of the individual image of each cut-out original is associated with the input image number of the individual image information 57, and is stored in the storage unit 50 for each individual image.

In step S11, when printing an individual image or the like, the output unit 15 uses the individual image information 57 stored in the storage unit 50 to output image information corresponding to a predetermined output format. Generate.
Further, the output unit 15 outputs the generated image information. For example, printing processing by a printer or transmission processing via a network is performed.

As described above, after removing the outer frame area image from the acquired whole image data, the individual image is cut out using the whole image data from which the outer frame area image is removed, so that it is related to the opening and closing of the document holder. It is possible to improve the possibility of succeeding in cutting out individual images.

<Flowchart of scanned image processing of the second embodiment-1>
FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of document scanning image processing for the above-mentioned second embodiment in the image processing apparatus of the present invention.
Here, a process of adding a black frame image or a white frame image to the outer frame area of the entire image data and cutting out an individual image will be described as in the second embodiment described above.
Similar to FIG. 8, first, the user inputs using the operation unit 12 to select a crop function for cutting out an individual image of each document placed on the platen.
In FIG. 9, the same step number is assigned to the step that performs the same processing as in FIG.

In FIG. 9, from step S1 to step S6, the same processing as in FIG. 8 is performed.
That is, in step S1, it is checked whether or not the crop function has been selected and input, and if the crop function has been selected and input, the process proceeds to step S3.

In step S3, information indicating that the document to be read can be placed on the platen on the display unit 13, or if the document to be read is a document with many whitish colors, the person who starts scanning with the document holder open. In the case of a dark-colored document such as a photograph, it is displayed that it is better to start scanning after closing the document holder.
The user sees such a display, arranges the original in the reading area of the platen, and means that the original holder is opened or the original holder is closed according to the original, and then the reading of the original is started. Perform an input operation.

In step S4, it is checked whether or not an input operation indicating the start of scanning the document has been performed by the user, and if there is an input indicating the start of scanning the document in step S5, the process proceeds to step S6, and if not, the process proceeds to step S6. If so, return to step S4.
In step S6, the image input unit 13 scans the entire reading area of the reading area of the document table, acquires the image data of the entire reading area, and temporarily stores the image data as the entire image data 53 in the storage unit 50.

In step S21, the document holder open / close detection unit 16 checks the open / closed state of the document holder.
In step S22, if the document holder is in the open state, the process proceeds to step S23, and if the document holder is in the closed state, the process proceeds to step S24.

In step S23, a black frame image is added to the output overall image data, and the process proceeds to step S25.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 5A-4 described above, the entire image data in which the black frame image is added to the outer frame area is generated.
In step S24, a white frame image is added to the output overall image data, and the process proceeds to step S25.
As a result, as shown in FIG. 6A-5 described above, the entire image data in which the white frame image is added to the outer frame area is generated.

In step S25, the document edge detection unit 17 detects the edge of the individual image from the entire image data to which the frame image (black frame image or white frame image) is added.
After that, the processes of steps S9 to S11 are performed in the same manner as in FIG.
That is, in step S9, the position coordinates (manuscript vertex position coordinates) of the four vertices of the individual image are acquired by using the four sides of the rectangle corresponding to the contour of the document detected by the document edge detection unit 17. As the individual image information 57, the input image number of each individual image and the document vertex position coordinates are stored in association with each other.

In step S10, the individual image cutting unit 19 cuts out the image data of the individual image of each document from the whole image data by using the document vertex position coordinates of the stored individual image, and the input image of the individual image information 57. Each individual image is stored in the storage unit 50 in association with the number.

In step S11, when printing an individual image or the like, the output unit 15 uses the individual image information 57 stored in the storage unit 50 to output image information corresponding to a predetermined output format. Generate and output the generated image information. For example, printing processing by a printer or transmission processing via a network is performed.

As described above, after adding a black frame image or a white frame image to the outer frame area from the acquired whole image data, the whole image data to which the black frame image or the white frame image is added is used to obtain an individual image. Since the cutout is performed, the possibility of succeeding in cutting out the individual image can be improved.
In addition, a black frame image or a white frame image is automatically added according to the open / closed state of the document holder operated by the user, and individual images are cut out, so that the user can perform the cutting according to the open / closed state of the document holder. It is not necessary to input the setting of the image processing to be performed, and it is sufficient to perform the opening / closing operation of the document holder, the selection input of the crop function, and the input to start scanning the document.
Since these operation inputs are similar to the operations normally performed on a multifunction device or the like, the user can acquire individual images by simply performing simple operations without performing complicated setting input operations. , The user's operation burden can be reduced.

<Flowchart of scanned image processing of the second embodiment-2>
FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of document scanning image processing for the above-mentioned second embodiment in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, as in FIG. 9.
However, here, a black frame image or a white frame image is added to the outer frame area of the entire image data, but if the individual image cannot be cut out, the open / closed state of the document holder is reversed and the document is read again. Execute image processing.

Depending on the color and shading of the document to be read, the individual image of the document may be successfully cut out by switching the open / closed state of the document holder from open to closed, or conversely, by switching from closed to open.
Therefore, if the individual image cannot be cut out, a message requesting the user to change the open / closed state of the document holder is displayed, and the user is asked to change the open / closed state of the document holder again. , Performs document scanning image processing.
By having the user perform an operation to change the open / closed state of the document holder, the possibility of successfully cutting out an individual image of the document is improved.

In FIG. 10, the same step number is assigned to the step that performs the same processing as in FIGS. 8 and 9.
In FIG. 10, first, steps S1 to S6 and step S21 perform the same processing as in FIG.
That is, in step S1, it is checked whether or not the crop function has been selected and input, and if the crop function has been selected and input, the process proceeds to step S3.

In step S3, information indicating that the document to be read can be placed on the platen on the display unit 13, or if the document to be read is a document with many whitish colors, the person who starts scanning with the document holder open. In the case of a dark-colored document such as a photograph, it is displayed that it is better to start scanning after closing the document holder.
The user sees such a display, arranges the original in the reading area of the platen, and means that the original holder is opened or the original holder is closed according to the original, and then the reading of the original is started. Perform an input operation.

In step S4, it is checked whether or not an input operation indicating the start of scanning the document has been performed by the user, and if there is an input indicating the start of scanning the document in step S5, the process proceeds to step S6, and if not, the process proceeds to step S6. If so, return to step S4.
In step S6, the image input unit 13 scans the entire reading area of the reading area of the document table, acquires the image data of the entire reading area, and temporarily stores the image data as the entire image data 53 in the storage unit 50.

In step S21, the document holder open / close detection unit 16 checks the open / closed state of the document holder.
In step S31, the current open / closed state of the document holder detected by the above check is stored in the storage unit 50 as open / close information 52.
However, the processes of step S21 and step S31 may be constantly executed as separate multitasking, and the current open / closed state of the document holder may be stored as open / close information 52.

Next, in the same manner as in FIG. 9, in step S22, if the document holder is in the open state, the process proceeds to step S23, and if the document holder is in the closed state, the process proceeds to step S24.

In step S23, a black frame image is added to the output overall image data, and the process proceeds to step S25. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5A-4 described above, the entire image data in which the black frame image is added to the outer frame area is generated.
In step S24, a white frame image is added to the output overall image data, and the process proceeds to step S25. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6A-5 described above, the entire image data in which the white frame image is added to the outer frame area is generated.

In step S25, the document edge detection unit 17 detects the edge of the individual image from the entire image data to which the frame image (black frame image or white frame image) is added.
After that, the processes of steps S9 and S10 are performed in the same manner as in FIG.
That is, in step S9, the position coordinates (manuscript vertex position coordinates) of the four vertices of the individual image are acquired by using the four sides of the rectangle corresponding to the contour of the document detected by the document edge detection unit 17. As the individual image information 57, the input image number of each individual image and the document vertex position coordinates are stored in association with each other.

In step S10, the individual image cutting unit 19 cuts out the image data of the individual image of each document from the whole image data by using the document vertex position coordinates of the stored individual image, and the input image of the individual image information 57. Each individual image is stored in the storage unit 50 in association with the number.
However, if the edge detection of the individual image in step S25 is insufficient, for example, if the edge that is the outline of the individual image is not linear, the edge information is interrupted in the middle and is two-dimensional like a rectangle. If the specific shape cannot be specified, or if the detected rectangle has a predetermined size or less, it may not be possible to cut out an individual image in step S10.

In step S32, the presence or absence of the cut out individual image is checked.
The individual image information 57 stored in the storage unit 50 is confirmed, and if one or more individual images are stored in the individual image information 57, it is determined that there is an individual image cut out, and each of them is individual. If the image is not stored, it is determined that there is no individual image cut out.
If it is determined in step S33 that there is no cut out individual image, the process proceeds to step S34, and if it is determined that there is a cut out individual image, the process proceeds to step S11.
If it is determined that there is no individual image to be cut out, it means that the individual image has failed to be cut out.

In step S11, when printing an individual image or the like, the output unit 15 uses the individual image information 57 stored in the storage unit 50 to output image information corresponding to a predetermined output format. Generate and output the generated image information. For example, printing processing by a printer or transmission processing via a network is performed. As a result, a series of reading processes is completed.

In step S34, it is checked whether the current open / close information 52 is "open" or "closed", and if the open / close information 52 is "open", the process proceeds to step S35 and the open / close information 52 is "closed". In the case of, the process proceeds to step S38.

In step S35, the display unit 14 indicates that a document scanning error has occurred and that the document holder should be closed and scanning should be performed again.
In this case, the original holder is currently open, but if the original holder is closed and then the original is scanned again, the original may be successfully read. Therefore, the original arrangement is left as it is. Notify the user to have the presser closed.
Further, when the speaker is provided and the voice output function is provided, the content to be displayed may be notified by voice.
The user may close the document holder after seeing the above display.

In step S36, similarly to step S21, the document holder open / close detection unit 16 checks the open / closed state of the document holder.
If the document holder is changed to the closed state in step S37, the process returns to step S4, and the scanning process after step S4 is executed again.
On the other hand, if it is still in the open state, the process returns to step S35.

In step S38, the display unit 14 indicates that a document reading error has occurred and that the document holder should be released and scanning should be performed again.
In this case, the original holder is currently closed, but if the original holder is opened and then the original is scanned again, the original may be successfully read. Therefore, the original arrangement is left as it is. Notify the user to release the presser.
In this case as well, the content to be displayed may be notified by voice using the speaker.
The user may open the document holder after seeing the above display.

In step S39, similarly to step S21, the document holder open / close detection unit 16 checks the open / closed state of the document holder.
If the document holder is changed to the open state in step S40, the process returns to step S4, and the scanning process after step S4 is executed again.
On the other hand, if it is still closed, the process returns to step S38.

When the individual image fails to be cut out by the above processing, the user is asked to change the open / closed state of the original image holder, and the individual image cutout process corresponding to the changed open / closed state of the original image holder is performed. Therefore, it is possible to improve the possibility of succeeding in cutting out the individual image of the original.
Further, when the scanning process is performed again, the user only has to change the open / closed state of the document holder from open to closed or from closed to open, so that the user's operational burden is burdened. Few.

1 Image processing device (MFP),
11 Control unit,
12 Operation unit,
13 Image input section,
14 Display section,
15 Output section,
16 Document holder open / close detector,
17 Original edge detector,
18 Individual image coordinate acquisition unit,
19 Individual image cutout part,
20 Outer frame area removal part,
30 frame image addition part,
31 Black frame image addition part,
32 White frame image addition part,
50 memory unit,
51 Outer frame area information,
52 Opening and closing information,
53 Overall image data,
54 Outer frame removal image data,
55 Black frame additional image data,
56 White frame additional image data,
57 Individual image information

Claims (1)

A manuscript stand on which the original to be read is placed, and
An image input unit that collectively reads a plurality of documents placed on the platen, and an image input unit.
A storage unit that stores the entire image data including the individual images of the collectively scanned documents, and a storage unit.
An individual image cutout unit that cuts out individual images of a plurality of originals from the entire image data,
An image processing device including an output unit that generates information in a predetermined output format for each individual image and transmits the information via a network.

Images