JP2666894B2 - Image processing device - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Industrial applications]   According to the present invention, an arbitrary area on a document is designated and an image of the area is designated.
Image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image different from that outside the area
About. [Prior art]   For example, the desired area without cutting and pasting the original
Extract only the image of the area or delete only the image of the area
Copying device that creates a copied copy or only the desired image
An image processing device such as a facsimile to send
You. In this type of device, detection of the specified area
It has become.   In a conventional image processing apparatus of this type, an operation board is provided.
Specify the area by coordinates using the numeric keypad
Scans the original image on the CRT display device
Display and see the image with cursor, light pen, mouse
Or the area is specified by the According to the former, Hara
Reading and inputting the coordinates of the specified area of the manuscript is troublesome.
In fact, the area that can be specified is limited to a simple shape such as a rectangle.
Can be According to the latter, the device becomes large and complicated, and
Costs are high and real-time processing is not possible.
Copy machines and fax machines used in ordinary offices
It is unsuitable for ri and the like.   In response to this, Japanese Patent Publication No. 60-33333 discloses
Indicates an area by an L-shaped display of a predetermined color written on the original.
An apparatus for detecting is disclosed. According to this,
Area can be specified as long as mark is written
You. However, the L-shaped display is defined by two adjacent sides of the rectangle.
Inevitably, the specified area is necessarily limited to a rectangle,
A color discriminating means for detecting an L-shaped mark of a predetermined color;
Is required.   Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 58-60875 discloses that an operator defines an area in blue.
Scans the specified black or red image color original image.
Read the color separation with the scanner and detect the edge of the blue image.
Judge the blue area, and black or red in the blue area and the outside area
Performs different image processing on a color image.
A target image processing apparatus is disclosed.   Also, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 58-26263 discloses that workers have low concentration.
Scan a facsimile document whose area is specified with ink with a scanner
Reads the image signal using a first threshold to indicate the presence or absence of an image
The signal is converted to a binary signal and the density is lower than the first threshold.
At a second threshold value and at a concentration lower than the second threshold value.
However, using a third threshold value higher in density than the background of the original
The image signal lying between the second and third thresholds
Judge as the image of the low-density ink and surround with the low-density ink
Is determined, and there is no image (deletion) in this area.
Facsimile device that transmits only image signals outside the area
An arrangement is disclosed. [Problems to be solved by the invention]   A blue region disclosed in the above-mentioned JP-A-58-60875 is disclosed.
The designated image processing device reads the original image,
Reading of specific color (blue) different from original image color (red, black)
Required, which complicates hardware and scanning
Especially, it is applied to an inexpensive image processing apparatus for monochromatic processing.
The problem of excessively high costs
You. The image signal disclosed in Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 58-26263 is binary.
Second and third thresholds lower in concentration than the first threshold
Facsimile that detects the area designation line (low density ink)
In the millimeter device, it is specified by pixel (small area)
Since it is determined whether the line is a line or not, a thin line or the like
May be erroneously detected as an area designation line.
In the case of an outgoing message, the image is transmitted with the required image deleted.   In the present invention, the false detection of the intermediate density area corresponding to the area designation line is performed.
The aim is to reduce outflow. [Means for Solving the Problems]   The image processing apparatus of the present invention divides a document image into minute regions.
And read the image density of the area.
Reading means (10) for outputting degree data;   Whether the density data is black image data or white image data or intermediate density
Density determination means (31) for determining whether the data is image data;   In order to exclude intermediate density image data of a small area, the first
During detection of intermediate density image data over a predetermined area
Inter-density image detecting means (main scanning direction SF1, GA3 / sub scanning direction LA
1, RAM1, GA7),   First intermediate area or more by the intermediate density image detecting means
When the intermediate density image data over
Exclude white image data or black image data with minute edges.
And an intermediate concentration over the detected first predetermined area.
A second area that includes image data and is larger than the first predetermined area;
An intermediate density area that detects a predetermined area as an intermediate density area
A detection means (main scanning direction SF2, GA4 / sub-scanning direction LA3, RAM2, G
A8),   Compensation for division of the intermediate density area due to black image data
To increase the intermediate density area by a predetermined area,
Compensation means (GA5, SF3 in main scanning direction / GA9, LA5, RAM3 in sub-scanning direction)
When,   Area for detecting the area surrounded by the intermediate density area
Area detection means (33);   According to the instruction from the operation unit, the intermediate density area
The first image processing is applied to the area surrounded by
On the other hand, a second image processing different from the first image processing is performed.
Image processing mode setting means (39) to perform   It is characterized by having. Note that the parentheses indicate
In order to facilitate the solution, a pair of embodiments shown in the drawings and described later will be described.
The symbols attached to the response elements are added for reference. [Action]   For example, on a manuscript, a color
When a mark surrounding a certain area is attached with a toppen,
The density determining means (31) converts the density data of the mark to an intermediate density.
Is determined as image data.   This intermediate density image data extends over a first predetermined area.
The intermediate density image detection means
To detect. Here, the intermediate density image data of a small area outside the mark
Data is not processed. That is, inside the mark
The small inter-density area is not extracted as a mark.   The intermediate density image data over the first predetermined area
Large second area including the area outside the data (density data of the mark)
The intermediate density area detecting means detects the predetermined area by the intermediate density area.
A. That is, the area outside the mark area
Is detected as a mark area.   Compensating means for expanding the intermediate density area by a predetermined area
To compensate for the division of the intermediate density area due to the black image data.
You.   The area detecting means (33) is adapted to output the compensated intermediate density.
Image processing mode by detecting the area surrounded by the
The setting means (39) responds to an instruction from the operation section to set the area.
Area for the first image processing, and
A second image processing different from the first image processing is performed.   Therefore, the above-mentioned detection by the intermediate density image detecting means
It is not possible to mistakenly detect a thin line etc.
No detection error occurs in the specified area. Also, compensation hand
Due to the above-mentioned processing of the column, black lines etc.
The intermediate density area specified by the mark
Is extracted. That is, the area designation line (mark) surrounds
False detection of the area is reduced.   Other objects and features of the present invention refer to the following drawings.
It will be clear from the description of the embodiment. 【Example】   FIG. 3 shows the configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a scanner as shown in FIG.
The image of the reading line 1 of the original 1 is
The image is formed on the CCD line sensor 3 and the original 1 and the CCD
By mechanically shifting the relative position of the line sensor 3 in the y direction
While updating the read line (sub-scan),
Direction from left to right at a density of 16 pixels / mm (main running
Investigation). The read signal a is a signal corresponding to the density of each pixel.
It becomes an analog signal with a width.   Reference numeral 20 denotes a video processing circuit which converts a read signal a into an A / D signal.
Conversion (analog / digital conversion) and background removal
Processing, shading correction processing, MTF correction processing, etc.
6 bit (64 gradation) read data b (the numerical value is high
This is a circuit that generates a higher density.   30 is for reading data, black pixels are for “1: H level” white drawing
Binarization by setting the element to “0: L level” (binary image data)
Extract (trimming) and erase (mask)
King) etc. to generate the write data d.
Data controller.   40: AO modulation of laser beam by write data d
(1: record, 0: non-record) and print out the chart paper
Printer.   In the image processing apparatus, these components are controlled.
Control device, scanner 10, video processing circuit 20
And the laser printer 40 are well-known technologies and
Detailed description and illustration as they are not directly related to the features of the
Is omitted.   FIG. 1 shows the structure of the data controller 30 shown in FIG.
It is a block diagram showing composition. In this, each block
The number of the drawing showing the details of the block is shown in parentheses.
I have.   In short, the data controller 30 records
Mark within the specified density range or surrounded by the mark
Area is detected, and based on this, the original image is trimmed.
Or masking. In this embodiment
Is a color felt-tip pen
Mark (hereinafter referred to as color mark)
You. This is because color felt pens have various densities
Has already been prepared.
This is because working becomes easy and practically advantageous.   The density determination circuit 31 detects the read data b of the intermediate density.
Put out. That is, the read data from the video processing circuit 20
b and two threshold levels b_T1And b_T2(B_T1
> B_T2) In contrast to b_T2≦ b <b_T1Density reading data
Data b is detected. Here especially b_T1Is a simple binarization
And the same level as the threshold level. This
As a result, the range in which the simple binarization does not determine black is called
A thin mark will be detected. Also, b_T2
Should not malfunction due to dirt on the background of the document or uneven density.
Is set to an appropriate level.   When the intermediate density read data b is detected, a signal e is generated.
Set to “1” (H level).   In the area detection circuit 32, the intermediate density is determined by the signal e.
The area of the part to be detected is detected. For example, due to dirt on the background
Intermediate density is detected for a small area of one to several pixels.
Even if the signal e is generated, in this case, an intermediate density area is set.
Is not detected. In other words, intermediate over a certain area
In the case of density, a second constant area including the area is set to the intermediate density.
Degree area. Also, color print on black print.
When marking with a pen, the black print is
Black with high density. Thus, the intermediate density area
If you are separated by black,
The intermediate density area is expanded to some extent and detected.   When the intermediate density area is detected, the signal f is set to “1” (H level
To).   The flag control circuit 33 sets the flag memory 34 of the next stage.
/ Reset control circuit. That is, the intermediate density area
The signal f that detected the
Including the inside of the closed loop surrounded by the inter-concentration area
Set a flag for an area, and
On the other hand, control such as resetting the flag is performed.   In the following, the intermediate density area and the intermediate density
Mark designation area including the area surrounded by the area
I will call it a.   The flag memory 34 is a one-line memory in the main scanning direction.
Yes, flag indicating mark designation area is set or reset
Is set. Therefore, update every one line (sub-scan)
Be renewed. The output signal h of the flag memory 34 is
The signal corresponds to the rear.   FIG. 4 illustrates the configuration and operation of the flag memory 34.
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing a document corresponding to the original. Manuscript size
The size is not limited to the size shown in the figure, but in this case, the CCD
One line of main scanning by the in-sensor 3 is 5000 pixels (16 pixels
/ mm density). Where x₀, x₁, ...
・ X₄₉₉₉Is the address of each pixel in the x direction (main scanning address)
And y₀, y₁, y_Two, ...., is the add of each line in the y direction
Address (sub-scanning address).   As shown in FIG. 4, the flag memory 34 of this embodiment
1-line memo consisting of all 2500 bits of 0, 1, 2, ... 2499
1 bit of the flag memory corresponds to 2 pixels in the x direction.
I have. This saves memory capacity and peripheral circuitry.
Therefore, it is not always necessary to adopt this configuration. This file
The contents of the lag memory 34 are updated every sub-scan.   In this embodiment, the memory capacity of the peripheral circuit is reduced.
For savings, etc., even lines (ie y₀, y_Two, y_Four・ ・
.,) And odd lines (ie, y₁, y_Three, y_Five・ ・
・,) Processing is slightly different. For this reason,
The even and odd lines in FIG. 4 of the flag memory 34
Although the expression is changed, even if all the same processing is performed
good.   The trimming / masking circuit 35
Gate the binary pixel data by the output signal h, and write the first
Data e₁Generate   On the other hand, the hollowing-out processing circuit 36 has a
The written image, The outline image is converted to a border image as shown in Fig. 22b.
Data e_TwoThis circuit generates various kinds of information.
Since some of them are provided, details are omitted.   The hollow selection circuit 37 supplies the output signal h of the flag memory 34
More hollow data e_TwoAnd the second write data e_ThreeTo
Generate.   In the output selection circuit 38, the first write data e₁Or second
Export data e_ThreeAnd output it as the export data d.
You.   The microprocessor (CPU) 39 is
Input the threshold level setting of the concentration setting circuit 31.
Setting, trimming / masking circuit 35 trimming or
Select masking or output data of output selection circuit 38
Instructing selection, etc., but omitting illustration of signal lines
You.   Hereinafter, each block shown in FIG. 1 will be described in more detail.
Will be described.   FIG. 5 shows the configuration of the density determination circuit 31, and FIG.
6 is a timing chart showing an operation example of the degree determination circuit 31.
You. CP1 and CP2 in Fig. 5 are comparators and input
In the input of the terminals A and B, when A ≧ B, the output terminal A ≧ B
When the output becomes logic “1: H level” and A <B, this terminal
The output becomes “0: L level”. GA1 and GA2 indicate gates.   To the input terminal A of each of the comparators CP1 and CP2
Is applied with read data b from the video processing circuit 20.
You. Also, a simple binary value is applied to the input terminal B of the comparator CP1.
Threshold level b for_T1But the comparator CP2
The input terminal B of the
Level b_T2Are given respectively. This embodiment
Then, b_T1To 31, b_T2Is set to 10 (an example).   Comparator CP1 output e₀Is the simple 2 of the read data b
Becomes a binarized signal (that is, binary image data), and “1” is a black image
The element "0" corresponds to a white pixel. This comparator CP1 output
Force e₀Branch and gate via gate GA1 (inverter)
To GA2 (and gate). Therefore,
The output e of the gate GA2 indicates that the read data b has a gradation of 10 to 30.
“1” when the pixel is in the middle density (that is, when the pixel is of intermediate density), otherwise
(That is, when the pixel is a binary pixel)
The lower e is referred to as intermediate density detection data.)   FIG. 6 is a ternary chart in which the horizontal axis is a main scanning address.
And the output signal e for an example of read data b₀And
And e. The vertical axis for the read data b is 0 to
Indicates 63 gradations, binary image data e₀And intermediate density detection
The vertical axis for each data e is 1/0 (H / level:
(Same below). This allows reading data
When b is greater than or equal to the one-dot chain line (gradation 31) e₀Is “1”, e is
“0”, when it is between the dashed line and the dashed line (gradation 10) e₀But
When “0” and e are “1” and less than two-dot chain line, both become “0”.
You can see that   FIG. 7 shows a configuration of the area detection circuit 32. To this
SF is shift register, GA is gate, LA is latch, RAM
Indicates a RAM (random access memory).   FIGS. 9 and 10 show the signals used in the following description.
6 is a timing chart showing timing. Fig. 9
Referring to FIG. 10 and FIG.₁Is main scan reading 2
This is a clock signal with one cycle for each pixel.₁= “1”
The even pixel shown in FIG.₁= "0" indicates reading of odd-numbered pixels
Corresponding to Therefore, the intermediate density detection data e
Hook S₁In half a cycle. Clock S_TwoIs clock S₁To
This is a clock obtained by dividing the frequency by half. Signal ▲ ▼ (O
Bar lines indicate inversion and are overlined in the figure.
Terminal indicates L active: the same applies hereinafter)
Is the signal that controls the output enable of each latch
And the latches LA1, LA3 and LA5 are
Output terminal is Q₁, Q_Two, ..., is output and ▲ ▼ = “1”
The output terminal becomes floating. Signal ▲ ▼ is RAM
Control signal for writing to Signal ▲ ▼ is chip select
Signal. Signal A_1-12Is a 12 bit signal RAM
This is an address signal, and is an address signal of the flag memory 34 shown in FIG.
It corresponds to a bit unit (two pixels are one unit).   In FIG. 10, Sy is a line synchronization signal, and Tr is a cycle.
Is shown. The hatched portion of each signal indicates the generation period of the signal.
It indicates that it is in the middle.   FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the main part of the area detection circuit 32 shown in FIG.
To explain the detection operation of the mark designation area in the scanning direction
6 is a timing chart of FIG. Hereinafter, mainly in FIG.
This will be described with reference to FIG. 11 and FIG.   As an example, the intermediate density detection data e is calculated as shown in FIG.
Suppose. The numbers in the timing chart correspond
The main scanning address of the pixel (read pixel) to be read is shown. here
Is the main scanning address-3.
(That is, address 2497 of the previous line)
e = “1”, and after the main scanning addresses 1 to 10 and 20,
When a color mark is detected, e = “1”, main scanning addresses 11 to 1
At 9, the color mark is divided by black printing and e = “0”
This is the signal. Therefore, the main scanning addresses 11 to 19
Binary image data e₀Is “1”.   The shift register SF1 receives the clock S₁Gives the intermediate concentration
The detection data e is taken in every two pixels. Therefore, SF
1 output terminal Q_A~ Q_DOutput signal of the past 8 pixels from the present
Corresponding. This is for the sake of circuit simplicity, as described above.
Is thinned out.   After all, in SF1 and GA3, S₁4 clocks of the sun
That is, whether or not the intermediate density is over eight pixels or more
Judgment is performed and the intermediate density image over 8 pixels or more
When an image is detected, the GA3 output signal f₁Becomes “0”.   SF2 and GA4 are also clock S₁It operates in the cycle of Toes
In SF2 and GA4, f₁= "1" timing
S, including its timing,₁8 clocks
Minute, that is, whether or not 16 pixels have an intermediate density.
ing. This is because the color mark is broken in the middle and
It is divided or the minute area in the color mark is white or
Even if it is black, it ignores them and the color mark
This is for detecting as if they are continuous. Figure 11
Signal f as shown₁Input to SF2, GA4 becomes as shown in the figure.
Signal f_TwoIs output.   GA2 and SF3 are clock S_TwoWorks in sync with these
The color mark is distinguished by black lines etc.
Color mark for that part, etc.
Is compensated. This is the case, for example, in newspapers.
Color marks may be cut off by
This is for connecting the color marks of the parts. Toko
However, the width of the color mark separation by black is various,
With the above compensation for any large width, detection
The mark designation area to be
There is a risk of running out. Therefore, in this embodiment,
An upper limit was set on the width of black that separates the mark.   That is, f_TwoE when = 1₀= "1", SF3
"1" is taken from the input terminal D of_Two4 clocks
Shifted to output terminal Q_DFrom the output signal f_ThreeIs taken out
You. Signal f_ThreeIs a signal for compensating for black
In this embodiment, about 4 × S_Two= Up to 16 pixels
Compensation. In addition, this black border mark finger
The fixed area is the actual area by SF2 and GA4 as described above.
This is detected as an area that is larger than the area.
If the color mark is included, the color mark black up to about 20 pixels
(That is, any more than that
Do not compensate: upper limit).   OR gate GA6 output signal f_FourIndicates the expansion of the intermediate density area
In addition, compensation for the division by black
To the logical "1" signal continuously from the data corresponding to
Become. This signal f_FourIndicates an intermediate density area in the main scanning direction.
Signal.   The signal f in FIG. 11 has three latches for timing shaping.
Signal f due to LA2, LA4 and LA6 delay_FourS₁3k
This is a signal shifted by the lock.   Next, the sub-scanning method of the area detection circuit 32 shown in FIG.
A description will be given of the operation of detecting the intermediate density area in the direction.   In FIG. 7, in the sub-scanning direction by LA1 and RAM1,
The first shift register (that is, the shift in the main scanning direction)
(Corresponding to the register SF1) by LA3 and RAM2.
Second shift register in the scanning direction (corresponding to SF2 above)
The third shift in the sub-scanning direction by LA5 and RAM3.
(Corresponding to the above SF3). Ma
Gates GA7, GA8, GA9 and GA10 are
Gates GA3, GA4, GA5 and GA6 in the scanning direction are supported.
You.   First, the operation of the first shift register by LA1 and RAM1 is performed.
The operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. Figure 12 shows
RAM address signal is Ax in main scan of even line₁
13 is a timing chart showing the operation of each part in the vicinity, and is described in FIG.
The figure shows the main scan of the next line (that is, the odd number) of FIG.
In the same way, the address signal of RAM is Ax₁Operation of each part in the vicinity
FIG. FIG. 12 and
Q in Fig. 13₁, Q_Two, Q_ThreeAnd Q_FourIs the output signal of LA1, D_2-4
Is the input terminal D of LA1_Two~ D_FourIs the input signal.   The latch timing of latch LA1 is ▲ ▼ (clock S
₁Inversion), ie the clock S₁Falling Timi
Equivalent. At this timing, LA1 input terminal D₁To
Is the signal f_Four(GA6 output) is captured. At this time
Read line signal f_FourF_Four ⁰Notation. This
From the meaning, the signal f one line after this reference_FourF_Four ¹,
Signal f two lines before_FourF_Four ^-2, Signal f four lines before_FourF_Four ^-Four, 2
Output terminal Q before line₁Output signal Q₁ ^-2, 4 lines before output
Terminal Q₁Output signal Q₁ ^-FourNotation, etc.   As shown in Fig. 12, writing control to RAM is
The control signal ▲ ▼ is generated (see Fig. 10) and LA1
Output Q₁~ Q_ThreeWill be written to RAM1 for the next shift
You. Then, when this data is read from RAM1, the latch
LA1 input terminal D_Two~ D_FourOnly one bit
It has been shifted, and by repeating this, LA1
And RAM1 make up a shift register in the sub-scanning direction
Is done. That is, output terminal Q₁Output f_Four ⁰When, Q_Two= Q₁ ^-2= F_Four ^-2, Q_Three= Q_Two ^-2= Q₁ ^-Four= F_Four ^-Four Q_Four= Q_Three ^-2= Q_Two ^-Four= Q₁ ^-6= F_Four ^-6, Becomes   In this embodiment, the write control signal
Only occurs and data is captured every other line
However, data e was fetched every other pixel in the main scanning direction.
As before, this simplifies the circuit.   FIG. 13 (following the timing chart of FIG. 12)
In), the write control signal ▲
The ▼ does not occur and the RAM1 only performs a read operation. Toes
Therefore, the data read from RAM1 is 1 bit for odd lines.
(1 bit in the sub-scanning direction) shifted and latched by LA1
It is. That is, output terminal Q₁Output f_Four ¹When, Q_Two= Q₁ ^-2= F_Four ^-2, Q_Three= Q_Two ^-2= Q₁ ^-Four= F_Four ^-Four Q_Four= Q_Three ^-2= Q_Two ^-Four= Q₁ ^-6= F_Four ^-6, Becomes These outputs are input to GA7.   Referring again to FIG. 12, LA1 indicates that ▲ ▼ = “0”.
Output enabled, Q₁~ Q_FourIs shown as ▲
▼ = valid during the period of “0”, therefore the GA7 output signal f
_FiveIs also effective during this period, and vice versa.
During the period, it becomes an invalid period like the hatched part. this
Issue of validity / invalidity period and LA1, GA7 switching
The problem of timing uncertainty due to speed
In LA2, f_FiveIs timing shaped.   Second shift register with LA3 and RAM2 and LA5
Operation in RAM and third register by RAM3
To shift. LA4 and LA6 are
Similarly, timing shaping is performed.   In the above SF3, the clock S_Two4 pixels by synchronizing
Data was taken in every time, but LA5 and RAM3
Similarly, in the third shift register,
Acquire data every 4 pixels (that is, every 4 lines)
Now. Therefore, the write control signals ▲ ▼ and
And chip select signals ▲ ▼ are shown in Fig. 10.
Thus, every four clocks of the line synchronization signal Sy, that is, four lines
It becomes a signal of the cycle.   In summary, the area detection circuit 32 shown in FIG.
Detection of the intermediate density area in the scanning direction and sub-scanning direction
Output, SF1 and GA3 are connected in the main scanning direction.
LA1, RAM1 and GA7 are small faces in the sub-scanning direction.
Excluding the intermediate density image (noise) of the product to a certain area or more
Detect only intermediate density images across; SF2 and GA4 dominant
Regarding the scanning direction, LA3, RAM2 and GA8
Once the middle density area is detected, the surrounding area
Excludes non-intermediate density (noise) due to minute white or black
And includes the detected intermediate density area, with some
Large area detected as intermediate concentration area; GA5 and SF
3 is for main scanning direction, GA9, LA5 and RAM3 are for sub-scanning
For the direction, separation of the intermediate density area by black (noise)
Up to a certain division width
Now. As described above, the signal f compensates for image noise on the original.
The compensated intermediate density area signal is obtained.   FIG. 8 shows the operation of the flag control circuit 33 and the flag memory 34.
The configuration is shown. The intermediate density generated by the area detection circuit 32
The degree area signal f is input to the flag control circuit 33, and GA1
6, taken into the flag memory (RAM4) 34 via LA10.
As described above, RAM4 is one line with two pixels as one unit.
Memory, and an address signal A_1-12Write address by
Address is specified.   The contents of RAM4 are read via GA15, GA16 and LA10 when read.
Is latched to LA11 and the signal h
And output.   Set / reset type F / F composed of GA12 and GA13
Up-flop) starts scanning in the main scanning direction.
The period from when the first intermediate density area is detected to
Has the function of detecting. That is, the F / F output signal h_TwoIs la
In sync signal (reverse) ▲ ▼ resets,
It is set by the inter-density area signal f. Where strict
H by NAND of f and ▲ ▼ by GA11₁Lise
This is a circuit technique problem.
Therefore, it can be considered that the function is set by f.   Address signal A_1-12Input from LA7, LA8, CP3
Circuit in the main scanning direction.
A) The period from the scanning to the end of scanning is detected. That is,
Signal h₁The address for each intermediate density area
Latch. Therefore, at the end of one line scan, LA
7 shows the intermediate density area in the line
The dress will be latched. This last ad
▲ ▼ as preparation for scanning the next line
Since the address is cleared, the last address is
Latched in LA8 by the synchronization signal Sy. That is
The last address of the line is the last address in the next line
Used to detect the period from the address to the end of scanning.
Conversely, the data of the previous line indicates that the current
Detects the period from the end of the inter-density area to the end of scanning
I have. This means that the line must be scanned until the end of the scan.
It is difficult to determine where the last intermediate density area is.
is there. However, even if there is an error of one line,
Specifying the area by the mark, its detection accuracy, and even
1 line error is sufficient compared to the purpose of area designation
It can be neglected to be small.   CP3 compares inputs A and B, and when A> B, outputs
Child (L level: The output terminals are indicated by overlines in FIG. 8.
Be).   That is, the signal h by GA14_ThreeIs on a line
From the tip to the first intermediate density area and the last intermediate
This signal indicates the period from the density area to the rear end.
H during those periods_Three= "0". Conversely, h_Three
= “1”.   LA9 is used to compensate for signal delay caused by CP3 and GA14.
This is a latch for timing shaping.   Output signal h by GA15 and GA16_FourIs f = “1”
And h_Three= RAM4 output D during “1”₁= “1”
Then, it is set to "1" regardless of the value of f. Signal h_FourIs la
Signal LA indicating the current line and the flag via the switch LA10.
Stored in RAM4. In parallel with this, g is transmitted through LA11.
Then, it is output as a mark designation area signal h.   The flag control circuit 33 shown in FIG.
The operation of the memory 34 is shown in the timing chart of FIG.
A specific example will be described with reference to a chart. Fig. 15
L₀The main scan line, l₁More than
Main scan line, l_TwoThe main scan two lines later
Line. Also, the signal h_Fourg and h are timing
And the waveform is different, but h_Four(G,
h) and the following is the signal h_FourI will decide.   The intermediate density area signal f is₀, l₁, l_TwoTo
In this case, it is assumed that detection is performed as shown in the figure. This smell
A₁ ⁰, A₁ ¹, A₁ ^TwoIs the first intermediate density corresponding to each line
Area address (RAM address signal value: the same applies hereinafter)
A) and A_Two ⁰, A_Two ¹, A_Two ^TwoInside the end corresponding to each line
This is the address of the inter-density area.   LA7 is the intermediate density area signal f (actually h₁) By each
Update the address of the intermediate density area for each line and
The output of output terminal Q (LA7-Q) is as shown in the figure.
You. LA8 is controlled by the line synchronization signal Sy for each line.
The last address (A_Two ⁰, A_Two ¹, A_Two ^Two)
And the output of output terminal Q (LA8-Q)
Is delayed by one line. Therefore, the comparison
Output terminal of CP3 Is set at the rise of the line synchronization signal as shown in the figure.
The last address of the intermediate density area for each line (actual
At the timing corresponding to the address one line before).
Signal to be set.   Signal h_ThreeIs Since it is the logical sum of the output and the F / F output, as shown in Fig. 15,
Address corresponding tie for the first intermediate density area of each line
Address set at the end of the intermediate density area.
It is a signal that is reset at the timing corresponding to the   Line l₀RAM4 corresponding to the signal shown in the figure (previous line l_-1
Is output. First, add the signal f
Less A₁ ⁰Becomes “1” at the timing corresponding to_Four
And at the same time the signal h_ThreeBecomes “1” and
The RAM4 output is set to “1” before the signal f changes to “0”.
Continue with h_FourSignal; signal h_ThreeIs l_-1Middle darkness of line
Address A at the end of the area_Two ^-1At the timing corresponding to
Since it becomes “0”, address A_Two ^-1Is l₀Intermediate density of line
Rear end address A_Two ⁰If it is closer,
Signal f becomes "0", that is, address A_Two ⁰To
Signal h at the corresponding timing_FourReset. Signal h
_Four(= G) is updated and stored in the RAM 4, so that the next line (l
₁Line 4) RAM4 is address A₁ ⁰At the timing corresponding to
"1", address A_Two ⁰Signal that becomes “0” at the timing corresponding to
Output a signal. This is repeated below.   In FIG. 15, for simplicity, two points apart in one line
There is an intermediate density area (that is, a place where f = "1")
The signal h_ThreeIs the intermediate density in one line
First and last intermediate density areas regardless of the number of areas
Is set in correspondence with the address of
If there is only one intermediate density area, the first and
It is set corresponding to the later address (in this case, the first and
The last address may match.)   In the present embodiment, the write operation to the RAM 4
Read operation from RAM4 for odd lines
Has become. Therefore, at the time of the odd line, the current odd line
Of the data line f and the previous even line
New flag h from reset / reset flag data_FourBut
Conversely, on the even line, the data of the current even line
f and the flag data on the even-numbered line up to the previous
Flag h_FourOccurs. As a result, the control signal ▲
▼, ▲ ▼ (indicated by an overline in Fig. 8)
Are shared with RAM1 and RAM2 to simplify the circuit. Toes
1 line for 16 lines / mm reading resolution
Detection errors are allowed.
The write operation may be performed for each input.   Figure 16 shows the o-shaped and linear color
Fig. 17 is extracted based on the color mark in Fig. 16.
The designated mark indicates the designated area. See these drawings
Then, a more specific description will be given.   First, y₀Pay attention to the line (above the ○ -shaped color mark)
In this case, since the intermediate density area is not detected, the signal f
Remains at “0”. For this reason, F / F (GA12 & GA13)
Remains reset, the signal h_TwoAnd signal h_ThreeIs always
And the mark designation area signal h becomes "0".
At this time, LA7 clear (that is, address 0) and LA8
The next line will be latched immediately after the start of main scanning.
Et al., And h_Three= "0".   y₁Suppose that the intermediate density area was detected for the first time on the line.
You. In this line, the intermediate density area is separated by a black line
However, as described above, in the present embodiment, for example,
14 As shown in FIG.
When the image is detected, the area of 16 × 16 pixels including the
Since it is determined that the density area is between (ie, f = "1")
(Expanding the intermediate density area), this split has an effect
Absent. y₁When focusing on the line, always h_Three=
Since it becomes “0”, the signal f becomes a flag for the current line.
And the mark specified area detection signal
It is output as signal h.   In addition (according to the sub-scan)₁Sequentially from
The new flag is updated and stored in RAM4.
Y_TwoWhen focusing on the line, the intermediate density area is only on both sides
However, after setting the flag according to the signal f,
The area between the intermediate density areas of_Three= “1”
Set the flag according to the output of RAM4
To mark the area surrounded by the color mark
A.   y_ThreeThe line is a line that passes through the break, but as described above
This effect is not affected because the intermediate density area is expanded.
No.   y_FourLike the line, the distance between the intermediate density areas on both sides is small.
The signal h_ThreeIs set, so
Even if the RAM4 output is larger than this width, the mark designation area
Is detected correctly.   y_FiveIn the line, the line of interest is outside the color mark
As a result, the signal f remains “0”. Therefore, the F / F (GA12
& GA13) remains reset, so the signal h_TwoAnd trust
Number h_ThreeIs always "0" and mark is specified regardless of RAM4 output
The area signal h becomes "0". Writing the flag at this time
As a result, the RAM 4 is reset.   y₆The line passes through a linear fill color mark
It is a line, and there is a character in the color mark.
The effect of this is that
In this way, the mark designated area can be detected.   As described above, according to the present invention, the intermediate density and the intermediate speed
It is possible to detect the part enclosed by degrees,
However, the shape is not limited to a rectangle, and various shapes are possible. Another one
The number of parts surrounded by intermediate density in the original is not limited.
No. In addition, since the detection is performed in parallel with the original reading operation,
For example, it is necessary to perform area detection in advance by
No need. That is, for example, extracting a designated area
Sometimes it is possible to copy the image of the area
You. In this embodiment, the marker using a color felt pen is used.
This mark is intended for
If so, the color is irrelevant, and even
No special sensors, light sources, etc. are required. This mark
Is set in the range that is determined to be white by simple binarization
In the binarized data, no mark appears,
Copies printed based on the binarized data
No mark appears. In addition, mark expansion is performed to
Since the rear is detected, the mark is divided by white or black
Can detect the area effectively even if
You.   FIG. 18 shows an example of area designation.
B and C are surrounded by color marks, and D and E are color marks
FIG. Almost arbitrarily close as shown
Various shapes can be specified.   For example, specify the area by filling
Characters and character pitches and lines in and around the part
The pitch is fine, and it is precisely surrounded by a mark of a certain thickness or more
Even if it is difficult to
It's easy to crush. Also a light color fel
Even if it is painted with a topen, it is
Black letters and the like remain at high densities,
Since the value is also determined to be black,
The area can be specified without losing data.
If the original cannot be marked directly,
Cover with a transparent sheet and mark from above.
Just do it.   FIG. 19 shows a part of the operation board, trimming,
The portion indicated as masking is the key top. No.
The image processing apparatus shown in FIG.
Trimming mode to extract and copy and mark designation area
Has a masking mode to erase and copy the image in the area
You. The keys shown in Fig. 19 specify these modes.
Therefore, an alternate switch structure is provided. You
That is, for example, trimming mode and masking mode
Operate trimming key without any mode setting
Then the trimming mode is set and the trimming mode
Operate trimming key during setting to trim mode
Is released. Also, trim mode and maskin
The masking key without any
Operate to set the masking mode.
If you operate the masking key while setting the mode,
Mode is released. Maskin while trimming mode is set
When trimming key is operated, trimming mode is canceled
The masking mode is set
If the trimming key is operated during setting,
The trimming mode is set by releasing the trimming mode.
During trimming mode setting, the trimming key top
The internal lamp lights up and the masking mode is set.
Lights the lamp inside the masking key top.
You.   As shown in FIG. 20, the CPU 39 of FIG.
When the mode is set, the signal k₁To “1” and the signal k_TwoTo “0”
Signal and set the masking mode, the signal k₁To “0”
And the signal k_TwoTo “1”. Also, which mode
Signal k when not set₁And k_TwoTo “0” based on
set.   FIG. 21 shows the trimming and masking times shown in FIG.
Path 35, hollow selection circuit 37 and output selection circuit 38
Show.   The trimming / masking circuit 35 includes GA17, GA18, GA19, G
It is composed of A20 and GA21. Trimming mode
In signal k₁= “1”, signal k_Two= “0”, GA20
The mark designation area signal h is output as it is. Ma
In k mode, the signal k₁= “0”, signal k_Two= “1”
Therefore, the inverted mark designation area signal h is output from GA20.
Is output. Also, if neither mode is set
The signal k₁= “0”, signal k_Two= “0”, GA20
Output “1” regardless of the mark designation area signal h.
You. The output of GA20 is given to GA21, and the other terminal of this gate
Is the binary image data e₀Is applied, and eventually GA21
Is the binary image data e when the GA20 output is “1”.₀And GA
20 becomes "0" when output is "0". First write data e₁To
Output. This can be summarized as shown in Table 1 below.
You.   The hollow selection circuit 37 is controlled by GA22 and selector SE1.
It is configured. The input terminal A of the selector SE1 has a binary image
Image data e₀However, for the input terminal B,
Hollow data e_TwoAnd the select terminal S is
When "0", select input terminal A and output, select terminal
When S is "1", the input terminal B is selected and output. Hollow
The processing circuit 36, as described above, has an image as shown in FIG. 22a.
From the data to output an image as shown in Figure 22b.
Circuit, for example, a black pixel adjacent to a white pixel.
I'm extracting it. There are various known circuits of this kind
The description is omitted.   The operation board is equipped with a blank selection key (not shown).
The CPU 39 sets the hollow mode according to this key operation.
Signal while the hollow mode is set._ThreeSet to “1”
You.   Mark designation area signal h and signal k_ThreeBut both are “1”
The output of GA22 becomes "1" only in the case of
Is the hollow signal e_TwoIs selected, otherwise the GA22 output is
Since it is "0", SE1 is a binary image signal e₀Select One
Mari, second export data e_ThreeIs only in the mark designation area
This is data for forming a hollow image. Put together the above relationships
Table 2 below shows the results.   Output selection circuit 38 consists of GA23, GA24 and GA25
Is done. Signal k when hollow mode is not set_Three=
Since it is “0”, GA23 is turned on, GA24 is turned off, and
Data d is the first written data e₁Equal to
When the mode is set, the signal k_Three= “1”, so GA23 is off.
And GA24 are turned on, and the write data d is the second write data.
Data e_ThreeIs equal to   Although not shown, e input is provided to the B input of the selector SE1._Two′
= ▲ ▼ (Inverted data of binary image data: Inverter
If you use the signal
Create an image with black and white reversed only in the mark specification area
be able to.   In the above embodiments, trimming, masking, hollowing
Has been described, but using the mark designation area signal h,
Besides this, it is easy to create various edited images.
I understand.   FIG. 23 is a block diagram of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG.
Mark designation mode (the above trimming mode, masking mode
Mode, etc.) and other modes
Here is an example.   The background removal mode is used to remove background color such as newspapers and grid paper.
If you are working on a document, change the white level to background density.
This is a new setting function.
Now read the color mark, i.e. the mark of intermediate density.
Setting, the white level is set because the specified area is detected.
Is an important point. In other words, this allows
In mark designation mode due to blemishes and background contamination
And has improved reliability.   In FIG. 23, the binarization determination level is shown in FIG. 5 and
Threshold level b in Fig. 6_T1Is that
You.   Although not shown on the operation board, the darkness of the output image
There is a density adjustment key for adjusting the
Threshold level b when made_T1Update level
Set. For example, to obtain a dark output image from a light original
Has b_T1Set to a small value, and vice versa.
B to get a force image_T1To a large value. Only
In the mark specification mode, it is darker than the
In the case of binge binarization, the intermediate density in the range judged to be white is detected.
The threshold level for binarization is higher
However, the intermediate concentration and the concentration range
The margin for top pen and how to fill in becomes large. There
In the mark designation mode, the state of the density adjustment key
However, the binarization determination level, that is, the threshold level
Bell b_T1Is set to a predetermined value.   The above is the description of the apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.   In the above description, for example, the address signal A
_1-12Generation circuit and generation timing of various timing control signals
Path, main / sub-scanning, etc.
Consecutive main / sub scanning width control, gate line to image signal
Image data e at the time of generating the case and writing data d₀And medium
Extracted data e_TwoSuch as delay conditions, etc.
Or, what is easily possible with conventional technology is
It is irrelevant to the gist of the present invention and complicates the explanation, causing
Therefore, description and illustration are omitted. Also, description of the embodiment
Unless otherwise stated, the H (high) level is logical
“1”, L (low) level is set to logic “0”. 【The invention's effect】   It is not possible to mistakenly detect a thin line etc. of the original image as an area designation line.
And no detection error occurs in the designated area. Also felt
A black line that separates marks of intermediate density drawn with a pen, etc.
Even if there is, the intermediate density area specified by the mark
It is reliably extracted. That is, the area designation line (mark)
False detection of the surrounding area is reduced. Therefore, the area designation line
Erroneous detection of the intermediate density area corresponding to.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a partial configuration of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing reading of the original 1 by the CCD line sensor 3. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing a memory map of the flag memory 34 shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the density determination circuit 31 shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing an operation example of the density determination circuit 31 shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing a configuration of the area detection circuit 32 shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the flag control circuit 33 and the flag memory 34 shown in FIG. FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are timing charts showing the relationship between various control signals. FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 are timing charts showing the operation of the area detection circuit shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing expansion of the intermediate density area. FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing the operation of the flag control circuit 33 and the flag memory 34 shown in FIG. FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are conceptual diagrams for explaining detection of a mark designated area by a color mark. FIG. 18 is a plan view showing an example of area designation using color marks. FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a part of operation keys provided on the operation board. FIG. 20 is a truth table showing the relationship between the setting mode and the signals k ₁ and k ₂ . FIG. 21 shows the trimming / masking circuit 3 shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a hollow selection circuit 21 and an output selection circuit 38. FIG. 22a and FIG. 22b are conceptual diagrams for explaining the blanking processing. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the microcomputer 39 shown in FIG. 1 when the mark designation mode is set. 1: original, 2: imaging lens 3: CCD line sensor 10: scanner, 20: video processing circuit 10, 20: (reading means) 30: data controller, 31: density determination circuit (comparing means) 32: area detection circuit (First area detecting means) 33: flag control circuit, 34: flag memories 33 and 34: (second area detecting means) 35: trimming / masking circuit, 36: hollow processing circuit 37: hollow selecting circuit, 38: output selection circuit 39: microcomputer (image processing mode setting means) 40: laser printer GA1 to GA25: gate, SF1 to SF3: shift register CP1 to CP3: comparator, LA1 to LA11: latch

Claims (1)

(57) [Claims] The original image is divided into minute areas, the image density of the area is read, the reading means for outputting the density data corresponding to the density, and whether the density data is black image data, white image data, or intermediate density image data are determined. Density determining means for performing the processing, intermediate density image detecting means for detecting intermediate density image data over a first predetermined area so as to exclude intermediate density image data having a small area, and a first predetermined level by the intermediate density image detecting means. When the intermediate density image data over the area is detected, in order to exclude minute white image data or black image data around it, the intermediate density image data including the detected first predetermined area or more is included. Intermediate density area detecting means for detecting a second predetermined area larger than the first predetermined area as an intermediate density area; Compensating means for expanding the intermediate density area by a predetermined area to compensate for the disconnection; area detecting means for detecting an area surrounded by the intermediate density area; and Image processing mode setting means for performing first image processing on an enclosed area and performing second image processing on the other area different from the first image processing. apparatus.