JP6683527B2 - Image reader - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image reading device having a multi-crop function.

When scanning small-sized documents such as business cards, postcards, and photographs, the multi-cropping function cuts out the image corresponding to each document by scanning multiple documents in a row while placing them side by side on the platen. , And an image reading apparatus having the multi-cropping function thereof are known.
For example, it is proposed to detect the number of originals and the original position by pre-scan, scan the originals one by one, and display which original is being scanned so that the user can grasp the image reading state. (For example, see Patent Document 1). Even if documents of different sizes and types are mixed, the image cutting order is controlled according to the document size and document position of the clipped image, and the recording paper size and recording paper type used to record the document. There has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2). Further, a method has been proposed in which the number of originals input to read the number of cropped images desired by the user is accurately detected and the number of detected originals is compared and displayed (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

JP, 2003-219085, A JP, 2007-013378, A JP, 2007-020122, A

It is convenient to manage a plurality of original images read by batch scanning by the multi-crop function in association with each other. This is because they are often related to those manuscripts. For example, when organizing a plurality of business cards obtained by attending an event, it is convenient to read them all at once by the multi-crop function and store them in association with the event name and date and time. With regard to postcards, it is expected that the multi-cropping function can be used to collectively read out new year's cards, attendance at certain events, etc. It is expected that the photos will also be read collectively by the multi-crop function for each trip or event.
When there are many originals to be read, it is possible that one batch scan may not complete the reading. In that case, it is convenient if the originals read by multiple batch scans can be stored in association with each other. Further, it is convenient if the relevance of the read document is recorded even if the user does not perform complicated operation or processing.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and when a plurality of originals are read by the multi-crop function, even when a large number of originals are read so that batch scanning is performed a plurality of times, complicated operations and processing are performed. The present invention provides an image reading apparatus capable of outputting a document image in a mode in which the relevance of the read document image can be easily understood without requiring.

  According to the present invention, a document reading unit that scans a plurality of documents placed on a document table at a time to read the images of the respective documents, a cutout unit that cuts out the images of the respective documents from the scanned images, and An image output unit that gives a file name to image data and outputs each image data in a new folder or an existing folder, and a control unit that controls the document reading unit, the cutout unit, and the image output unit The control unit is capable of processing images of a plurality of originals cut out by batch scanning a plurality of times as a series of image data, and at least a series of image data of the series of image data is processed in accordance with a predetermined rule. Provided is an image reading device for controlling the image output unit so as to give a file name, output in the same folder, or store each image data in association with each other. .

  In the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit can process images of a plurality of originals cut out by a plurality of batch scans as a series of image data, and at least the series of image data is predetermined. The image output unit is controlled so as to give a series of file names according to the rules described above, output the same in the same folder, or store each image data in association with each other. Even when reading the document image, the document image can be output in a manner that the relationship between the read document images can be easily understood without requiring a complicated operation or processing.

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a digital multi-function peripheral shown as an example of an image reading apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a document table and its vicinity in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a document is placed at a predetermined position on the document table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing positions of A5, B5, and A4 size originals placed in the vertical direction on the original table shown in FIG. 3. It is explanatory drawing which shows the position at the time of placing the original of each size A5-A3 in the horizontal direction on the original plate shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a document size detection unit detects a size when a document of each size AB is placed on the document table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a position when a 5.5 ″ × 8.5 ″, B5 and 8.5 ″ × 11 size original is placed in the vertical direction on the original table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the positions of the inch size originals and B5 size originals placed in the horizontal direction on the original table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a document size detection unit detects a size when a document of each inch size and B5 size is placed on the document table shown in FIG. 3. It is an explanatory view showing the presence or absence of each detection beam of the document size detection unit according to the present invention. (Corresponding to FIG. 5C) It is an explanatory view showing the presence or absence of each detection beam of the document size detection unit according to the present invention. (Corresponding to FIG. 6C) FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the presence or absence of each detection beam when a plurality of documents are placed on a document table by the document size detection unit according to the present invention. (Corresponding to FIG. 19B described later) FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a reading area corresponding to a document of the maximum size shown in FIGS. 5B and 6B, respectively.

FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 8 is a second explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 9 is a third explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 13 is a fourth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard-sized document. FIG. 13 is a fifth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 13 is a sixth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 16 is a seventh explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 14 is an eighth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 13 is a ninth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a standard size document. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which image data of a read standard size original document is stored in a USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 1. 6 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a control unit when the digital multi-function peripheral according to the present invention reads a standard size document.

FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 9 is a second explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 13 is a third explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a fourth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-functional peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a fifth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 13 is a sixth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a plurality of originals for multi-crop scanning are placed on the original table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 13 is a seventh explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 16 is an eighth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 19 is a ninth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which image data of a document read by a single-shot multi-crop scan is stored in a USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing another mode in which image data of a document read by a single-shot multi-crop scan is stored in a USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 1. 7 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a control unit at the time of a single-shot multi-crop scan.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of one mode in which the document size detection unit according to the present invention detects a plurality of documents placed on a document table. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of another mode in which the document size detection unit according to the present invention detects a plurality of documents placed on a document table. (Corresponding to FIG. 9) FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 9 is a second explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a plurality of originals for batch scanning for the first time are placed on the original table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 13 is a third explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a fourth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a fifth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a plurality of documents for the second batch scanning are placed on the document table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 13 is a sixth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a seventh explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-functional peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is an eighth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a ninth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-functional peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 14 is a tenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-functional peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which image data of an original read by batch scanning a plurality of times is stored in a USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing another mode in which image data of a document read by batch scanning a plurality of times is stored in a USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 1. It is a flowchart which shows the process which a control part performs at the time of a continuous shooting multi crop.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image obtained by reading a plurality of originals having a light density at the edge portion with the original cover open. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image obtained by reading a plurality of originals having high density at the edge portion with the original cover closed. FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 9 is a second explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 13 is a third explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 14 is a fourth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 9 is a second explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 13 is a third explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 16 is a fourth explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 13 is a fifth explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 16 is a sixth explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 16 is a seventh explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 23 is an eighth explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 23 is a ninth explanatory diagram showing a different aspect of the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing photo multi-crop. FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is a second explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 13 is a third explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is a fourth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is a fifth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 16 is a sixth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 17 is a seventh explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is an eighth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 13 is a ninth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 20 is a tenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is an eleventh explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is a twelfth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 13 is a thirteenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 14 is a fourteenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 23 is a fifteenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 23 is a sixteenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. It is a 17th explanatory drawing which shows the operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 23 is an eighteenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 9 is a first explanatory diagram showing a preview operation of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 13 is a second explanatory diagram showing a preview operation of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing a business card scan. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which image data of a document read by a business card scan is stored in a USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows another aspect which the image data of the original document read by the business card scan is stored in the USB memory connected to the digital multi-function peripheral of FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a control unit when scanning a business card. (One scan) 7 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a control unit when scanning a business card. (Multiple scans)

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, the following description is an illustration in all points and should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

<< Overview of image reading device >>
A specific example of the image reading apparatus of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a digital multi-function peripheral as an example of the image reading apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.
The digital multi-function peripheral 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes the image reading device 11 of the present invention and the image forming device 12 for printing. Further, it is possible to connect to a network (not shown) via the communication unit 45. Then, the image data of the document read by the image reading device 11 can be transmitted to an external device via the network. Further, print data can be received from an external device via the network, and the received print data can be printed by the image forming apparatus 12. The digital multi-function peripheral 10 has the functions of copy, printer, scanner, image filing, and facsimile.

The document cover 33 shown in FIG. 1 also serves as an automatic document feeder. The document cover 33 can be opened upward by the user's hand. When it is used as an automatic document feeder, it is used in a closed state, but there is a document table (not shown in FIG. 1) at a portion which appears below it when it is opened upward. A user can place a document on the document table and read the document. The cover opening / closing sensor 35 (see FIG. 2) detects opening / closing of the document cover.
The document table is made of transparent glass, and below the document table, there are a scanning unit 21 of a mechanism portion for scanning the document while moving, and a document reading unit 23 for reading an image of the document scanned by the scanning unit 21. It is arranged. In this embodiment, the document reading unit is a linear image sensor.
Further, the image reading device 11 includes an image processing circuit. The image processing circuit includes a cutout unit 25 that cuts out an image of a document from a reading area scanned by the scanning unit 21 and read by the document reading unit 23.

The image reading device 11 also includes an image output unit 27. The image output unit 27 assigns a file name to the read image data and stores it in the storage unit 43 that is a memory, or stores it in a USB memory connected to a USB connector 71 (described later in FIG. 3) described below. Or Alternatively, it is sent to the image forming apparatus 12, or sent to an external device via the network via the communication unit 45. The communication unit 45 is capable of communication via a public telephone line in addition to LAN and WAN. Transmission and reception of image data via a public telephone line corresponds to a facsimile function.
The image reading device 11 includes a character recognition unit 29. The character recognition unit 29 character-recognizes the cut-out image of each business card document and outputs the character data during the business card scanning described later. The image output unit 27 assigns a file name to the character data of each business card output from the character recognition unit 29 instead of the image data of each business card manuscript or together with the image data of each business card manuscript, and stores it in the storage unit 43 or the USB connector 71. Via USB memory.
The document size detection unit 31 detects the sizes of the document placed on the document table and the document set in the automatic document feeder. However, the size of the document that can be detected is limited to a predetermined type of size (the standard size described above).

As shown in FIG. 1, an operation display unit 51 having a liquid crystal display panel and a touch panel is arranged on the front side of the document table. In FIG. 2, the liquid crystal display panel corresponds to the display unit 51a. The touch panel that covers the display surface of the liquid crystal display panel corresponds to the operation keys 51b.
The control unit 41 detects the document size by the document size detection unit 31, scans the document by the scanning unit 21, reads an image by the document reading unit 23, displays the display unit 51a, and accepts operations by the operation keys 51b. Control.
The image forming apparatus 12 includes an image receiving unit 61 that receives an image read by the image reading apparatus 11 or image data sent from other than the image reading apparatus 1. Further, the image forming unit 63 is provided which generates a visible image based on the acquired image data. The image forming unit 63 forms an image by a known method such as an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method. The sheet supply unit 65 supplies the print sheet to the image forming unit 63, and the sheet conveying unit 67 conveys the print sheet supplied from the sheet supplying unit 65 to the image forming unit 63. The image forming unit 63 transfers the image formed on the conveyed print sheet, fixes the image on the print sheet, and outputs the image to the sheet output unit 69.
The operation of the image forming apparatus may be controlled by a dedicated control unit not shown in FIG. 2, but in this embodiment, the control unit 41 also controls them.

<< Detection of platen and original size >>
The detection of the document table and the size of the document placed on the document table in this embodiment will be described below.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a document table and its vicinity in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. In FIG. 3, the document cover 33 is opened upward, and the document table 20 is arranged below it. A document size detection unit 31 is arranged further behind the document table 20. The document size detection unit 31 is above the document table 20 when the document cover 33 is open, that is, when the cover opening / closing sensor 35 detects the open state, but when the document cover 33 is closed, the document cover 33 is opened. It is suppressed by and moves downward. However, FIG. 3 shows only a part of the document size detecting section 31. There is another portion of the document size detection unit 31 at a location (not shown) under the document table 20. The function of the document size detection unit 31, including the portion not shown, will be described later.

An operation display unit 51 and a USB connector 71 are arranged on the front side of the document table 20. The USB connector 71 is a connector for connecting a USB device such as a USB memory to the digital multi-function peripheral 10. The digital multi-function peripheral 10 has a function of reading a document placed on the document table 20 and storing image data of the read document in the USB memory with the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the document 20b is placed at a predetermined position on the document table 20 shown in FIG. The original is placed on the original table 20 with the portion to be read facing down. A corner on the left side of the document table 20 is a reference position when the document 20b is placed, and a corner mark 20a indicating the reference position is provided to the user.
The document reading unit 23 is a line type image sensor in this embodiment, and the reading direction along the line is a direction indicated by an arrow M in FIG. 4 (hereinafter, referred to as a main scanning direction). The scanning unit 21 moves in a direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. This is the direction indicated by arrow S in FIG. 4 (hereinafter referred to as the sub-scanning direction).

FIG. 5A is an explanatory diagram showing the positions of A5, B5, and A4 size originals placed on the original table 20 in the vertical direction. Here, the vertical direction is a direction in which the short side of the rectangular original is along the sub-scanning direction. For any size, the user places the top of the document on the corner mark 20a. Further, FIG. 5B is an explanatory view showing the positions when the originals of each size A5 to A3 are placed on the original table 20 in the horizontal direction. Here, the lateral direction is a direction in which the long side is along the sub-scanning direction. For any size, the user places the top of the document on the corner mark 20a.
FIG. 5C is an explanatory diagram showing how the document size detection unit 31 detects the size of a document of each size of AB type placed on the document table 20.
The document size detection unit 31 includes seven pairs of light emitting elements D01 to D07 arranged in the sub scanning direction. Each light emitting element emits light from the upper side of the document table 20 to the lower diagonal side of the front side. The irradiated light is transmitted from the upper side to the lower side of the document table 20 made of transparent glass. Then, after passing through a slit provided on the lower side of the document table 20 to reach the corresponding light receiving element.
Corresponding to the light emitting elements D01 to D07, seven slits and seven light receiving elements are arranged side by side in the sub-scanning direction. On the right side of FIG. 5C, there is shown an arrangement relationship when a set of a light emitting element, a slit, and a light receiving element is viewed from above. It is the part surrounded by a rectangle.

Infrared light is emitted from the light emitting element 31a formed of an infrared light emitting diode toward the front side with a certain spread. A beam of infrared light radiated toward the upper surface 31b of the platen is transmitted while refracting from the upper surface to the lower surface of the platen 20 and passes through a slit 31c arranged on the lower side of the platen 20 to a light receiving element 31d. Incident. The slit 31c is for blocking infrared light emitted from the adjacent light emitting element.
The seven infrared beams traveling from the seven light emitting elements to the corresponding seven light receiving elements are shown by a chain double-dashed line in FIG. 5C. When a document is placed on the document table 20, the infrared beam does not reach the light receiving element because the infrared beam is blocked by the document at the portion where the document is placed. When the image reading apparatus 11 is on standby and the cover opening / closing sensor 35 detects the open state of the document cover 33, the control unit 41 determines whether the infrared beam reaches the seven light receiving elements of the document size detection unit 31. Read sequentially whether or not. Each infrared beam detects the presence or absence of a document at a plurality of different positions. The size of the document placed on the document table 20 can be determined by the pattern of whether or not each infrared beam has arrived. Hereinafter, each infrared beam is also referred to as a detection beam. When the cover open / close sensor 35 detects the closed state, the control unit 41 stops reading each infrared beam and maintains the document size based on the last read detection beam. When the cover open / close sensor 35 detects the rotating state, the infrared beams are sequentially read again.
5A to 5C show discrimination of each size of AB system, and FIGS. 6A to 6C show discrimination of each size of inch system and B5 size corresponding thereto. It should be noted that which of the AB system and the inch system is to be detected is selectively set according to the situation of the customer who uses the digital multi-function peripheral 10.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing patterns of presence / absence of a detection beam corresponding to each size of an AB type document (see FIG. 5C). In FIG. 7, items lined up in the left and right directions, D01 to D07, indicate presence / absence of infrared beam detection of the light receiving element corresponding to the light emitting element of FIG. 5C. In FIG. 7, the items arranged in the vertical direction indicate each size. A circle mark in FIG. 7 indicates a state where the detection beam reaches the light receiving element, that is, a state where the detection beam exists. The mark X in FIG. 7 shows a state in which the detection beam does not reach the light receiving element, that is, a state without the detection beam.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing patterns of presence / absence of detection beams corresponding to inch sizes and B5 size (corresponding to FIG. 6C).
FIG. 9 shows a pattern with or without a detection beam, which is different from the patterns shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. As will be described later, when a detection pattern as shown in FIG. 9 that does not correspond to any of the standard size originals is obtained, it is controlled that the multiple originals are placed on the original table 20 and the multi-crop scan is performed. Good.

<< Original reading area >>
A reading area in which the document reading unit 23 reads an image of a document will be described.
The control unit 41 determines an area (reading area) in which the document reading unit 23 should read the document based on the document size detected by the document size detection unit 31. The reading area corresponds to an area where a document is placed on the document table 20, as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the reading areas corresponding to the maximum document size shown in FIGS. 5B and 6B, that is, the A3 size and the 11 ″ × 17 ″ size. As shown in FIG. 10, the A3 size is a region having a length of 297 mm in the main scanning direction and 420 mm in the sub scanning direction. The 11 ″ × 17 ″ size is an area having a length of 279.4 mm in the main scanning direction and 431.8 mm in the sub scanning direction. As described above, the 11 ″ × 17 ″ size is slightly smaller in the main scanning direction and slightly larger in the sub scanning direction than the A3 size.
Strictly speaking, the reading area is determined as an area slightly smaller than the document size so as to create a margin of about 1 to 10 mm around each document size. This is to prevent the edges of the document from appearing as shadows in the read image.

≪Operation procedure for scanning standard size originals≫
Next, an example of an operation of reading a document image when a normal fixed-size document is placed on the document table 20 will be described. Although the present invention relates to multi-crop scanning, it will be easier to understand the features of the present invention relating to multi-crop scanning by first describing an example of a normal document reading operation.
11A to 11I are explanatory diagrams showing a display of the operation display unit 51 and a procedure of an operation to be performed by the user when the digital multi-function peripheral 10 reads a standard size document.
FIG. 11A shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the operation display unit 51 while the image reading apparatus 11 is on standby. On the operation screen, operation keys (operation buttons) associated with various functions of the digital multifunction peripheral 10 including the image reading device 11 are displayed. Various functions can be executed by the user touching those operation keys. Here, an operation procedure for reading an original will be described by taking as an example a case of reading an original among those functions and saving the original in a USB memory connected to the USB connector 71.
In order to scan the original and store the image data in the USB memory, the user touches the operation key of “save external memory” on the operation screen shown in FIG. 11A (see FIG. 11B). In FIG. 11B, the finger illustration shows an operation in which the user touches the operation key of “save external memory” with the finger F. In the following description, the touch operation of the operation key by the user will be shown using the same finger illustration.

In response to the operation shown in FIG. 11B, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display the operation screen shown in FIG. 11C. On the operation screen of FIG. 11C, operation keys for setting reading conditions such as “file name”, “color mode”, “resolution”, “format”, “original”, and “density” are arranged. In addition, a "reset" key for resetting settings and a "start" key for starting reading are arranged.
The “file name” is an operation key used when the user specifies the file name of the image data to be saved in the USB memory. The “color mode” is an operation key for selecting which of color, gray scale, and black and white to read. “Resolution” is an operation key for selecting the reading resolution. The “format” is an operation key for selecting a format of image data to be output such as PDF, TIFF, JPEG. The "original" is an operation key for the user to specify the original size or double-sided original. “Density” is an operation key for selecting the reading density of a document. If necessary, the user sets the reading conditions using these operation keys.
When the user places a standard-sized document at a predetermined position on the document table 20, the document size detection unit 31 outputs a detection pattern according to the size of the document with seven detection beams. The control unit 41 determines the size of the document placed on the document table 20 based on the detection pattern.

When the user touches the "start" key on the operation screen shown in FIG. 11C (see FIG. 11D), the control unit 41 starts reading the document in response to the operation. The control unit 41 controls the scanning unit 21 and the document reading unit 23 to determine the reading area according to the document size, and causes the document to be read under the set reading conditions. Also, as shown in FIG. 11E, during reading, the operation display section 51 displays a message “Reading original. (P.1)” and an operation key for “stop reading”. “(P.1)” in the message indicates that the first page is being read.
When the reading of one original is completed, the control unit 41 then finishes the reading, changes the setting for the next reading, or reads the next reading, as shown in FIG. 11F on the operation display unit 51. Display a screen asking if you want to start.
Here, when the user opens the document cover 33 and sets the next document on the document table 20, the document size detection unit 31 outputs the pattern of the detection beam according to the size of the replaced document. When the user presses the "start" key in that state (see FIG. 11G), the control unit 41 starts reading the next document in response to the operation. The control unit 41 causes the document to be read in the reading area according to the document size. During reading, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a message “Reading original” as in FIG. 11E. However, at the time of the second reading, “P.2” is displayed instead of “P.1” in FIG. 11E to inform the user that the second page is being read.

When the reading of the second document is completed, the control unit 41 subsequently causes the operation display unit 51 to display a screen similar to that of FIG. 11F, and ends the reading or changes the setting for the next reading. Alternatively, the user is asked to select whether to start the next reading.
When the user touches the operation key of “reading end” (see FIG. 11H), the control unit 41 saves the read image data of the two-page document in the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71. When the writing to the USB memory is completed, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a message “Data writing is completed (P.2)” (see FIG. 11I).
As shown in FIG. 12, the image output unit 27 stores, in the USB memory, a PDF file in which two pages of the read document are collected as one file. The file name includes information on the date and time when the document is scanned and read. That is, the part “20150123” in the file name “image20150123_0918.pdf” shown in FIG. 12 represents the date of January 23, 2015. The part "0918" following it represents the time at 9:18.

<< Processing procedure for scanning standard size originals >>
The processing when the control unit 41 executes the above-described document reading will be summarized and described.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the control unit when the digital multi-function peripheral 10 reads a standard size document. In the digital multi-function peripheral 10, other processing (for example, image forming processing) may be executed in parallel, but the description thereof will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a screen for allowing the user to select the conditions for reading the document (step S11, corresponding to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C), and the document size detection unit 31 It waits until the document placed on the document table 20 is detected (step S13).
When the document size detection unit 31 detects that the document is placed on the document table 20 and the document size is detected (Yes in step S13), the control unit 41 accepts the operation of the “start” key displayed on the operation display unit 51. Enable (step S15). Then, it waits until the "start" key is pressed (step S17).
When the "start" key is pressed (Yes in step S17, corresponding to FIG. 11D), the control unit 41 determines the reading area of the document and starts scanning and reading the document (corresponding to step S19 and FIG. 11E). Each time one document is scanned, a selection is made as to whether to perform the next reading or to finish the reading (step S21, corresponding to FIG. 11F). When the "start" key is pressed, the next reading is performed (No loop in step S21, corresponding to FIG. 11G).

On the other hand, when the "read end" key is pressed, the reading ends (Yes in step S21, corresponding to FIG. 11H).
Then, the transfer of the image data of the read document to the memory is started (step S23). In this embodiment, the image is transferred to the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71 via the image output unit 27. However, this is an example, and for example, in the case of copying, it is transferred to the image forming apparatus 12 via the image output unit 27. The image data may be temporarily stored in the storage unit 43 as a buffer. In the case of a scanner, there is also a mode of transmitting to the external device connected to the network via the communication unit 45. In the case of image filing, it is transferred to and stored in the storage unit 43. In the case of a facsimile, the image data is transmitted via the communication unit 45 and the public line.
When the transfer of the image data is completed (Yes in step S25), the user is notified of the transfer completion (step S27, corresponding to FIG. 11I), and the process ends.

≪Operation procedure of multi-crop scan≫
Next, the operation procedure of the multi-crop scan according to the present invention will be described.
14A to 14F, FIG. 15 and FIGS. 16A to 16C are explanatory views showing the operation procedure when the single-shot multi-crop scan of the digital multi-function peripheral 10 is performed.
In the case of the multi-crop scan, the standby screen is passed through the operation screens of FIGS. 11A and 11B to the screen of FIG. 14A, which is the same screen as FIG. 11C. When the user touches the "other function" key on the screen of FIG. 14A (see FIG. 14B), the control unit 41 displays the screen of FIG. 14C on the operation display unit 51 in response to the operation. On the screen of FIG. 14C, a "multi-crop" key is displayed as one of other functions. Although the "photo multi-crop" key and the "business card scan" key are also related to the present invention, their functions will be described later, and the "multi-crop" will be described first. In addition, in this specification, the "photo multi-crop" is also called "reversal multi-crop". On the other hand, the normal multi-crop is also called “non-inverted multi-crop”.

When the user presses the "multi-crop" key (see FIG. 14D), in response to the operation, the control unit 41 causes the "multi-crop" key to display a check mark indicating that "multi-crop" has been selected. Then, the message "Please open the document holder to use" is displayed on the operation display section 51 together with the "OK" key (see FIG. 14E). In the case of a standard size document, it is a rule to use the document cover 33, that is, the document retainer mentioned in the above message is closed. However, in the case of multi-crop scanning, the original cover is opened and scanning is performed so that the outside area of the original is read black with respect to the background color of the original of white or light density. The cutout unit 25 recognizes and cuts out the boundary of each document based on the contrast of the light background color of the document and the black of the area outside the document.
When the user reads the message "Please open the document holder and use it" and presses the "OK" key (see FIG. 14F), the control unit 41 erases the message in response to the operation.
The user arranges a plurality of originals to be multi-cropped on the original table 20.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a state where four originals 20b for multi-crop scanning are placed on the original table 20. The numbers 1 to 4 attached to each manuscript indicate an example of the cutting order, and the numbers correspond to the serial numbers of the file names described later.
When the user presses the “start” key with the document cover 33 open (see FIG. 16A), the control unit 41 responds to the operation by setting the reading area as the maximum area for multi-crop scanning, and the scanning unit 21 and the scanning unit 21. By controlling the document reading section 23, the four documents 20b are collectively scanned and read. Further, during reading, the operation display section 51 displays a message “Reading original. (P.1)” and an operation key for “reading stop” as shown in FIG. 16B. “(P.1)” in the message indicates that the first batch scan is being executed.
Since the control unit 41 can acquire the open / closed state of the document cover 33 by the cover opening / closing sensor 35, when the document cover 33 is closed, the “start” key is invalidated so that batch scanning cannot be started. It is good (Embodiment 1).
Alternatively, when the document cover 33 is closed, a message prompting the user to open the document cover 33 may be displayed on the operation display unit 51 (second embodiment).
When the "start" key is pressed with the document cover 33 still closed, the start of batch scanning is suppressed, the document cover 33 is opened, and a message prompting the user to press the "start" key again is urged. May be displayed on the operation display unit 51 at that time (third embodiment).

<< Reading area for multi-crop scan >>
The reading area of the standard size original document is determined by the control unit 41 based on the original document size detected by the original document size detecting unit 31. However, when a plurality of originals 20b are placed on the original table 20 at intervals as shown in FIG. 15, the original size detecting unit 31 according to this embodiment cannot correctly detect the size of each original.
Therefore, the control unit 41 ignores the document size detected by the document size detection unit 31 when the “multi-crop” key is touched and the multi-crop scan is selected, and the scanning unit 21 and the image reading unit 23 can read the document size. Control to read the maximum area. That is, the maximum area that can be read regardless of the detection of the document size detection unit 31 is determined as the reading area.
For example, in this embodiment, the maximum size of the AB system original is A3 size, which is 297 mm in the main scanning direction and 420 mm in the sub scanning direction as shown in FIG. This is the maximum readable area. More specifically, when a blank space of 10 mm is provided around the original, the reading area is 277 mm which is smaller by 20 mm in both main scanning directions and 400 mm which is smaller by 10 mm in both ends in the sub scanning direction. The image in the blank area cannot be read.
However, since the margin does not read the edge of the standard document, it is meaningless to provide the margin when performing the multi-crop scan in a state where a plurality of documents are arranged side by side as shown in FIG. Therefore, when the multi-crop is selected, the reading area may not be the reading area for the A3 size, but an area having no A3 size margin, that is, an area of 297 mm in the main scanning direction and 420 mm in the sub scanning direction. As described above, the control unit 41 sets the area larger than the reading area when reading the A3 size standard document, which is the maximum document size that can be detected by the document size detection unit, as the reading region of the multi-crop scan (embodiment). 4).

Alternatively, when the digital multifunction peripheral 10 selectively sets the AB and inch type standard document sizes, when multi-crop is selected, the inch type maximum document size is 11 "in the main scanning direction. The reading area may be 297 mm corresponding to A3 size larger than 279.4 mm. On the other hand, in the sub-scanning direction, it is 17 ″ which is the maximum original size of inch system larger than 420 mm of A3 size which is the maximum size of AB system. = 431.8 mm should be the reading area. In such a mode, the control unit 41 may set an area larger than the A3 size reading area, which is the maximum document size, as the reading area of the multi-crop scan (Fifth Embodiment).
Alternatively, if a larger area than the above area can be read in either or both of the main scanning direction and the sub scanning direction, the maximum reading area may be adopted when multi-crop is selected. In such a mode, the control unit 41 may set an area larger than the A3 size reading area, which is the maximum document size, as the reading area of the multi-crop scan (sixth embodiment).

<< Cut out document >>
When the multi-crop is selected, the cutout unit 25 cuts out the images of the respective originals from the images of the plurality of originals that are collectively scanned. In this case, the edge, that is, the boundary between the original and the area outside the original may be determined on the assumption that the original has a rectangular shape. The cutout unit 25 recognizes the boundary of each original based on the contrast between the light background color of the original and the black of the area outside the original, and cuts out the image of the original. Therefore, it is premised that the edge of the document has a light ground color with no characters or images. However, even if this assumption is not locally established, the area of each original can be cut out correctly based on the assumption that the original is rectangular.
From another point of view, if the premise that all the edges of the manuscript have a light ground color is established in all places, it is necessary to correctly cut out the area of each manuscript without assuming that the manuscript has a rectangular shape. You can

≪Image data output≫
When the batch scanning is completed, the control unit 41 stores the image data of the four originals read by the batch scanning and cut out by the cutout unit 25 in the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71. When the writing to the USB memory is completed, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a message "Data writing is completed (P.1)" (see FIG. 16C).
In addition, in this embodiment, the function of “multi-crop” is a function of performing one-time batch scanning (referred to as a single-shot multi-crop in this specification), but a function of performing multiple batch scanning (this specification). It is possible to select it by another operation.
As shown in FIG. 17A, image data corresponding to the four cut out originals is stored in the USB memory as four files stored in one folder. The folder is newly created when the file is stored in the USB memory. The file names given to the four files include information on the date and time when the originals were collectively scanned. Further, it includes information indicating the relationship between the four files. Regarding the first file name “image20150123_0921_0001.pdf” of the four files shown in FIG. 17A, the part “20150123” represents the date on January 23, 2015, and the part “0921” following it. Indicates the time of 9:21. Since the four files were read by batch scanning, they have the same date and time information. The file name of each file is provided with a serial number of 0001 to 0004 at the end of the file name. The user can easily recognize that the image data is a series of image data because the file names are sequentially numbered.
Further, the name of the folder in which these files are stored is also provided with the information on the date and time when the documents were collectively scanned (Embodiment 7).

FIG. 17B is an explanatory diagram showing another aspect of FIG. 17A. In FIG. 17A, the image data of each original cut out by batch scanning is stored in the newly created folder, whereas in FIG. 17B, each file is stored without creating a folder. However, the file names of the four image data include the date and time information when the originals were collectively scanned, as in FIG. 17A. Further, it includes a serial number as information indicating the relationship between the four files. Since the same date and the same time are attached to the file names alone, the relationship between the four files can be understood (Embodiment 8).
Note that the serial numbers added to the end of each file in FIGS. 17A and 17B are only one form of information indicating the relevance. The information indicating the relevance may be information other than the serial number, for example, alphabet. The place where the information is attached does not have to be the end of the file name. For example, it may be in the middle of the file name, such as before or after the date information.
As a different aspect, each image data may be stored in association with each other in the form of a known linked list so that the relation of a series of image data can be understood (Embodiment 9). Not limited to the linked list, any format can be applied as long as it stores a plurality of files in association with each other.
In the case of FIG. 17A, the folder name and the file name have the same date and time information, and can be said to be redundant. For example, with respect to the file name, date information and / or time information that overlaps with the folder name may be omitted.
In this embodiment, the aspect in which the image data is stored in the USB memory is described as an example. However, other aspects are possible. For example, when image data is transmitted to an external device connected via a network and stored in the external device, a similar file name is given, a new folder is created as shown in FIG. You may control so that image data may be stored. Alternatively, the folder may be stored without being created as shown in FIG. 17B.

<< Processing procedure to scan originals with multi-crop scan >>
The processing when the control unit 41 executes the above-described multi-crop scan will be summarized and described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the control unit when multi-crop is selected. As shown in FIG. 18, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a screen for allowing the user to select the scanning conditions and multi-cropping (step S31, corresponding to FIGS. 14A to 14D). After that, the user is informed that the document size cover will be opened and used (corresponding to FIGS. 14E to 14F). Then, a plurality of manuscripts are placed side by side on the manuscript table 20 (step S33, corresponding to FIG. 15) and wait for the "start" key to be pressed (step S35).
The document size detection unit 31 can detect the presence or absence of a document on the document table 20 even if the size of the document arranged on the document table 20 cannot be correctly detected.

When the “start” key is pressed (Yes in step S35, corresponding to FIG. 16A), the control unit 41 sets the maximum readable area as the reading area (step S37) and starts scanning and reading the document (step S39, FIG. 16B compatible). When the reading is completed (Yes in step S41), the control unit 41 controls the cutout unit 25 to cut out the image data of each document (step S43).
Then, the transfer of the image data of the read document to the memory is started (step S45). In this embodiment, the data is transferred to the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71. However, this is only an example. With respect to the multi-crop scan, similarly to the standard size document, in the case of copying, it is transferred to the image forming apparatus 12 via the image output unit 27. In the case of a scanner, there is also a mode of transmitting to the external device connected to the network via the communication unit 45. In the case of image filing, it is transferred to and stored in the storage unit 43. In the case of a facsimile, the image data is transmitted via the communication unit 45 and the public line.
When the transfer of the image data is completed (Yes in step S45), the user is notified of the transfer completion (step S47, corresponding to FIG. 16C), and the process is ended.

<< Function of the document size detector in multi-crop scan >>
Since the document size detection unit 31 is supposed to detect a standard size document, if a plurality of documents are placed side by side in the multi-crop scan, the document size of each document cannot be detected correctly.
FIG. 19A is an explanatory diagram of one mode in which the document size detection unit 31 detects a plurality of documents placed on the document table 20.
FIG. 19B is an explanatory diagram showing one aspect different from FIG. 19B.
In the case of FIG. 19A, the detection beam by the document size detection unit 31 has the same pattern as the B4 size in FIG. However, the size of each document placed on the document table 20 is different from the B4 size. Further, the pattern of the detection beam corresponding to FIG. 19B (the detection pattern corresponding to FIG. 19B is shown in FIG. 9) does not match any pattern shown in FIG.
In the above-described embodiment, since the multi-crop is selected, the control unit 41 sets the maximum readable region as the reading region regardless of the pattern of the detection beam obtained by the document size detection unit 31.

As a modification, for example, when the pattern of the detection beam corresponding to the B4 size is obtained as shown in FIG. 19A, the control unit 41 may use the A3 size, which is slightly larger than that, as the reading area of the multi-crop scan. That is, the control unit 41 determines the reading region corresponding to the document size that is at least one size larger than the document size detected by the document size detection unit 31 as the batch scanning reading region. In this way, the area where the originals are lined up is used as the reading area, while avoiding unnecessary scanning of the area where the originals are not placed (Embodiment 10).
Further, as another aspect, for example, as shown in FIG. 19B, the multi-crop scan may be performed when the pattern of the detection beam that cannot be a standard size document is obtained. In particular, this is a case where the beam of D04 is detected in FIG. 19B and the beam of a larger size (D05 to D07) is not detected. In that case, the control unit 41 may determine that a plurality of documents are arranged on the document table 20 and perform the multi-crop scan. That is, the control is performed so that the multi-cropping process is performed when the detection pattern by the document size detection unit 31 does not correspond to any of the predetermined standard document sizes. Alternatively, the control unit 41 may cause the operation display unit 51 to display a message asking the user whether to execute the multi-crop scan (Embodiment 11).
In the case of multi-cropping, the document size detection unit 31 cannot correctly detect the document size, but can detect the presence or absence of the document on the document table 20. Therefore, if the pattern of the detection beam is in a state where no document is placed on the document table 20, the "start" key is invalidated and control is performed so that the multi-crop scan is not started even if the "start" key is pressed. May be.

<< Aspect of performing batch scanning multiple times >>
20A to 20B, FIG. 21, FIG. 22A to FIG. 22C, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24A to FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows a procedure.
When performing continuous shooting multi-crop in this embodiment, "multi-crop" is selected from the standby state through the screens of FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 14A to 14F. However, at that stage, single-shot multi-crop is selected. After that, when the user touches the "original number counting" key on the screen of FIG. 20A, it is assumed that the continuous shooting multi-crop is selected by the control unit 41 in response to the operation. Then, a check mark is displayed on the "count of originals" key to notify the user that multi-cropping including counting of originals, that is, continuous multi-cropping has been selected (see FIG. 20B).
In other words, the "multi-crop" key receives the selection of the single-shot multi-cropping process, and the "count the number of originals" key receives the selection of the continuous-shot multi-cropping process. In this embodiment, the "multi-crop" key and the "document number counting" key are combined to select the continuous-shot multi-crop. You may prepare as a key and select any one.
The user arranges a plurality of originals to be multi-cropped on the original table 20.
FIG. 21 is an explanatory view showing a state in which four originals 20b of 1 to 4 for multi-crop scanning are placed on the original table 20, and is similar to FIG.

When the user presses the “start” key (see FIG. 22A), in response to the operation, the control unit 41 controls the scanning unit 21 and the document reading unit 23 to determine the reading area for the multi-crop scan, and 1 The four originals 20b of 4 to 4 are collectively scanned and read. Also, during reading, as shown in FIG. 22B, the message "Reading original. (P.1)" and the operation key "Stop reading" are displayed. “(P.1)” in the message indicates that it is the first batch scan.
When the first batch scanning is completed, the cutout unit 25 cuts out images corresponding to the originals 1 to 4. Based on the clipping of the original document by the clipping unit 25, the control unit 41 displays the message "4 originals have been read. (Total: 4 sheets)" along with "Reading completed", "Operation change" and "Start". The operation keys are displayed on the operation display unit 51 to prompt the user to operate (see FIG. 22C).

When the user arranges four originals 5 to 8 to be the targets of the next multi-crop scan on the original table 20 (see FIG. 23) and presses the “start” key (see FIG. 24A), in response to the operation, The control unit 41 starts the next collective scanning. That is, the scanning unit 21 and the document reading unit 23 are controlled to determine the reading area for the multi-crop scan, and the four documents 20b are collectively scanned and read. Also, during reading, as shown in FIG. 24B, the message "Reading original. (P.2)" and the operation key "Cancel reading" are displayed. “(P.2)” in the message indicates that it is the second batch scanning.
The control unit 41 handles the image data obtained by the first batch scanning and the image data obtained by the second batch scanning as a series of image data.
When the second batch scanning is completed, the cutout unit 25 cuts out images corresponding to four original documents 5 to 8. Based on the clipping of the original document by the clipping unit 25, the control unit 41 displays the message "4 originals have been read. (Total: 8 sheets)" along with "Reading completed", "Operation change" and "Start". The operation key is displayed on the operation display unit 51 (see FIG. 24C).
Here, "4 originals were read." Means that there were 4 originals that were read in the second batch scanning, and "(total: 8 sheets)" is the first original. This indicates that a total of eight originals have been read after performing a series of batch scans from the above batch scan.

In this way, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display the number of originals cut out in each batch scan and the total number of originals cut out from the first time. Display is performed each time batch scanning is executed.
When the user touches the operation key of “reading end” (see FIG. 24D), the control unit 41 displays the image data of a total of eight originals read and cut out by the two batch scans performed so far. The data is saved in the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71. When the writing to the USB memory is completed, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a message “Data writing is completed (P.2)” (see FIG. 24E).
As shown in FIG. 25A, the control unit 41 saves image data corresponding to a total of eight cut out originals as eight files stored in one folder in the USB memory. The file names given to the eight files include information on the date and time when the first batch scan was executed. Further, it includes information indicating the relationship between the eight files. Regarding the first file name “image20150123_0925_0001.pdf” among the eight files shown in FIG. 25A, the part “20150123” represents the date on January 23, 2015, and the part “0925” that follows it. Indicates the time of 9:25. The eight files were read with continuous shooting multi-crop and have the same date and time information. Then, at the end of the file name of each file, a serial number of 0001 to 0008 indicating their relationship is added.
Further, the folder name in which these files are stored is also provided with the date and time of the first batch scan (Embodiment 12).

FIG. 25B is an explanatory diagram showing another mode in which the image data of the read original is stored in the USB memory. In FIG. 25A, the image data of each original cut out by batch scanning is stored in one newly created folder, whereas in FIG. 25B, each file is stored without creating a new folder. It However, as with FIG. 25A, the eight file names include information on the date and time when the first batch scan was executed. Further, it includes information indicating the relationship between the eight files. Even if only the file name is used, the same date and the same time are attached, so that the relationship between the eight files can be understood. Since the information on the time when the first batch scanning is performed is the information at the time when the multi-crop scan is started, it is considered that the information is more likely to remain in the impression of the user than the second and subsequent batch scanning. That is, it is considered that the contents of the file can be easily recalled from the time information added to the file name.
25A and 25B, the serial number added to the end of each file is only one mode of the information indicating the relevance. Similar to what was described for FIGS. 17A and 17B.
As described above, in the continuous shooting multi-crop, the images of the originals read by batch scanning a plurality of times are treated as a series of image data so as to be distinguishable from other image data.
On the other hand, in the case of single-shot multi-crop, the image of each document read by each batch scan is treated as a series of image data, but it is different from the image data read by other batch scans such as before and after. Treat as distinct.

≪Continuous shooting multi crop processing procedure≫
The processing when the control unit 41 executes the above-described multi-crop scan will be summarized and described.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the control unit when the continuous shooting multi-crop is selected. As shown in FIG. 26, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a screen for allowing the user to select the scan condition and multi-cropping (step S51, corresponding to FIGS. 14A to 14D). Then, the user is informed that the document size cover will be opened and used (corresponding to FIGS. 14E to 14F). Further, the "count the number of originals" key is touched to select the continuous shooting multi-crop (corresponding to FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B), and a plurality of originals are placed side by side on the original table 20 (corresponding to step S53 and FIG. 21), Wait for the "Start" key to be pressed (step S55).
When the "start" key is pressed (Yes in step S55, corresponding to FIG. 22A), the control unit 41 sets the maximum readable area as the reading area (step S57) and starts scanning and reading the document (step S59). Then, it waits until the reading of the collective scanning is completed (step S61, corresponding to FIG. 22B).

When the reading is completed, the cutout unit 25 controls to cut out the image data of each document (step S63), and the cutout result is displayed on the operation display unit 51 (step S65, corresponding to FIG. 22C). Then, it waits until the "read end" key is pressed (step S67) or the "start" key is pressed (step S55 returning from No in step S67).
When the originals to be read next are placed side by side on the platen (corresponding to FIG. 23) and the “start” key is pressed (Yes in step S55, corresponding to FIG. 24A), the control unit 41 reads the maximum readable area. The area is set (step S57). Then, the second batch scanning is performed (steps S59 to S65, corresponding to FIG. 24B).
Then, it waits again until the "read end" key is pressed (step S67) or the "start" key is pressed (step S55 returning through No in step S67, corresponding to FIG. 24C).

When the "read end" key is pressed, the reading ends (Yes in step S67, corresponding to FIG. 24D).
Then, the cutout unit 25 is controlled so as to cut out the image data of the document read last (step S69), and the transfer of the image data of the read document to the memory is started (step S71). In this embodiment, the data is transferred to the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71. However, this is only an example. Similarly to the single-shot multi-crop, the continuous-shot multi-crop is transferred to the image forming apparatus 12 via the image output unit 27 in the case of copying. In the case of a scanner, there is also a mode of transmitting to the external device connected to the network via the communication unit 45. In the case of image filing, it is transferred to and stored in the storage unit 43. In the case of a facsimile, the image data is transmitted via the communication unit 45 and the public line.
When the transfer of the image data is completed (Yes in step S71), the user is notified of the transfer completion (step S73, corresponding to FIG. 24E), and the process ends.

≪Photo Multi Crop (Reverse Multi Crop) ≫
In the case of the normal multi-crop scan, that is, the non-inverted multi-crop scan, the original cover is opened and scanning is performed so that the outside area of the original is read black with respect to the background color of the original of white or light density. . The cutout unit 25 recognizes the boundary of each original based on the contrast between the light background color of the original and the black of the area outside the original, and cuts out an image corresponding to the original.
However, depending on the type of document, there is a document with a dark edge. If it is assumed that the document has a rectangular shape, it is possible to correctly cut out even a document with a dark edge locally, but it may not be cut out properly if there are many dark color portions.
A typical example of a document with a dark edge is a borderless photo document in which a night view is taken. When a photograph of the same night view has a border, the edge portion of the document is white, so that the clipping unit 25 can clip each document from the image read with the document cover 33 open. However, in the case of a borderless photograph, the contrast between the night view and the area outside the document is not sufficient.
For a document with a dark edge, such as a borderless photograph of a night view, it is better to read the document with the document cover 33 closed so that the area outside the document becomes white. The lower surface of the document cover 33 is a white surface. This is so that when a standard size original is read, even if the original cover 33 (original retainer), which is an area outside the original, is read, it does not feel uncomfortable with an original of white or light ground color.

Therefore, unlike the normal multi-crop, a multi-crop function for a document with a dark border may be provided so that the user can select it according to the document.
In this embodiment, the multi-cropping function for a document with a thick border is called "photo multi-cropping" or "reverse multi-cropping". Normal multi-crop (non-inverted multi-crop) informs the user to open the document cover 33 for use (see, for example, FIGS. 14E and 14F), but for photo multi-crop, close the document cover 33. The point is to notify the user to use. Then, the cutout unit 25 recognizes the boundary of each original based on the contrast between the dark background color of the original and the light color of the area outside the original, and cuts out an image corresponding to the original. In this case, the cutout unit 25 may perform the cutout after reversing the shade of the image obtained by the collective scanning. The cut-out image of each original document is stored again in the memory by reversing the gradation. By doing so, the image can be cut out by the same process because the outside-of-original area becomes black or has a color with a high density in both cases of the reverse multi-crop and the non-reverse multi-crop.
FIG. 27A shows an example of an image read by batch scanning with a normal multi-crop. This is an example in which a photographic original having a plurality of borders with a light density at the edge is read with the original cover open.
FIG. 27B shows an example of an image read by batch scanning with the photo multi-crop. 6 is an example of an image obtained by reading a plurality of borderless photo originals having high density at the edge portion with the original cover closed.
28A to 28D are explanatory diagrams showing an example of an operation procedure when performing a photo multi-crop scan with the digital multi-function peripheral 10.

When selecting the photo multi-crop, the standby state is reached and the screen of FIG. 14C is displayed through FIGS. 11A and 11B, 14A, and 14B. On the screen of FIG. 14C, a “photo multi-crop” key is arranged to the right of the “multi-crop” key.
When the user touches the "photo multi-crop" key (see FIG. 28A), in response to the operation, the control unit 41 displays a check mark indicating that "photo multi-crop" has been selected on the "photo multi-crop" key. Let Then, the message "Please close the document holder and use it" is displayed on the operation display unit 51 together with the "OK" key (see FIG. 28B).
When the user reads the message "Please close the document holder and use it" and presses the "OK" key (see FIG. 28C), the control unit 41 erases the message in response to the operation (see FIG. 28D). .
The user arranges a plurality of originals to be multi-cropped on the original table 20 and closes the original cover 33. When the user presses the "start" key, the control unit 41 starts batch scanning of photo multi-crop.
As shown in FIG. 27B, the cutout unit 25 recognizes and cuts out the boundary of each document based on the contrast of the dark edge of the document and the white contrast of the area outside the document.
Since the control unit 41 can acquire the open / closed state of the document cover 33 by the cover open / close sensor 35, while the document cover 33 is open, the “start” key is disabled to prevent batch scanning from starting. It may be (Embodiment 13).
Alternatively, when the “start” key is pressed with the document cover 33 open, the start of batch scanning is suppressed, the document cover 33 is closed, and the “start” key is pressed again. You may display on the part 51 (Embodiment 14).
The other operation procedure is the same as that of the normal multi-crop scan.

<< Different modes of photo multi-crop selection >>
In the above example, a "photo multi-crop" key is provided separately from the "multi-crop" key, and the user touches the "photo multi-crop" key to select the photo multi-crop function. Here, an example of selecting the photo multi-crop by an operation procedure different from the above example will be described.
29A to 29I are explanatory diagrams showing different examples of the operation procedure for performing the photo multi-crop scan in the digital multi-function peripheral 10.
Similar to the above-mentioned example, when selecting the photo multi-crop, the state from the standby state to the state in which the screen of FIG. 29A is displayed through the states of FIGS. 11A and 11B, 14A and 14B. In the screen of FIG. 29A, the “multi-crop” key is provided, but the “photo multi-crop” key is not arranged, and the photo multi-crop is included in the “multi-crop”.
When the user touches the "multi-crop" key (see FIG. 29B), in response to the operation, the control unit 41 causes the "multi-crop" key to display a check mark indicating that "multi-crop" has been selected. Then, the operation keys for "Light original" and "Dark original" are displayed on the operation display section 51 together with the message "Please select the original type", and the user is prompted to select any original type. .
Here, when the user touches the "thin document" key (see FIG. 29D), the control unit 41 determines that the normal multi-crop mode is selected based on the operation. Then, the message "Please open the document holder to use" is displayed on the operation display unit 51 together with the "OK" key (see FIG. 29E).

When the user reads the message "Open the document holder and use it" and presses the "OK" key (see FIG. 29F), the control unit 41 erases the message in response to the operation.
After that, the operation procedure is the same as that described in FIGS. 15 and 16A to 16C.
On the other hand, when the user touches the "dark document" key on the screen of FIG. 29C (see FIG. 29G), the control unit 41 determines that the photo multi-crop mode is selected based on the operation. Then, the message "Please close the document holder and use it" is displayed on the operation display unit 51 together with the "OK" key (see FIG. 29H).
When the user reads the message “Please close the document holder and use it” and presses the “OK” key (see FIG. 29I), the control unit 41 erases the message in response to the operation.
After that, the operation procedure is the same as that of the photo multi-crop described above.

≪Business card scan≫
The digital multi-function peripheral 10 of this embodiment has a business card scanning function. It can be said that the business card scan is a kind of multi-crop scan. However, unlike the normal multi-crop scan, the image of each cut out business card original is recognized and the character data is output. In the case of a business card manuscript, it is often considered that the user wants to use the character information described in the business card as well as the image. The character recognition is processed by the character recognition unit 29. It is processed by applying a known character recognition technique.

30A to 30T are explanatory diagrams showing an example of an operation procedure for performing a business card scan on the digital multi-function peripheral 10.
When a business card scan is executed, the state of waiting is brought to a state in which the screen of FIG. 14C is displayed through FIGS. 11A, 11B, 14A, and 14B. On the screen of FIG. 14C, a “business card scan” key is arranged to the left of the “multi-crop” key.
When the user touches the "business card scan" key (see FIG. 30A), the control unit 41 displays the "business card scan" window shown in FIG. 30B in response to the operation. While the "Business Card Scan" window is displayed, the "Start" key is grayed out and cannot be selected.
On the left side of the "business card scan" window, keys for "ON" and "OFF" the "business card scan" function are displayed. Since the initial state is “OFF”, if the user executes “business card scan”, “ON” is selected. If "OFF" is selected, the "business card scan" function is canceled. Using this key, the "business card scan" function can be turned "ON" and "OFF".
In addition, on the right side of the "Business Card Scan" window, from the top, "Language Settings" key, "Format" drop-down key, "Send image" check box, and "Use read name as file name" check box It is prepared.

  The "language setting" key receives an operation for selecting the language of the characters written on the business card. FIG. 30C is a “language setting” window displayed when the “language setting” key is touched. In the "Language setting" window, the currently selected language is displayed at the top. A list of selectable character recognition language buttons is displayed below it. When one language is touched from the buttons of the languages displayed in the list, the control unit 41 switches the selection to the touched language. When the vertical scroll bar on the right side is touched and an operation of scrolling downward is performed, the control unit 41 hides downward and displays a button of a language not displayed in FIG. 30C. An "OK" key is provided in the upper right corner of the "Language setting" window. When the "OK" key is touched, the control unit 41 confirms the language selection and returns to the display of the "business card scan" window in FIG. 30B. However, in that case, a check mark indicating that "business card scan" has been selected is displayed on the "business card scan" key (a part of which is hidden in the "business card scan" window).

The "format" key receives an operation of selecting the output data format of the character data of the character recognition result. The selection of the data format when outputting the information of the recognized business card (company name, job title, personal name, department name, address, mail address, telephone number, etc.) as one data file is accepted. FIG. 30D shows a state where the “format” key is touched. As shown in FIG. 30D, the vCard format or the CSV format can be selected as the output format.
The “send image” check box accepts a setting as to whether or not to send the image data of the business card original as one data file together with the file of the character data for which character recognition has been performed.
The “Use read name as file name” check box accepts a setting as to whether or not the character-recognized name is used as an output file name.

An "OK" key is provided in the upper right corner of the "Business Card Scan" window. As shown in FIG. 30E, when the "OK" key is touched, the control unit 41 waits for an instruction to start execution of the "business card scan" function under the conditions set in the "business card scan" window. However, before accepting the execution start instruction, the message "Please close the document holder and use it" is displayed on the operation display unit 51 together with the "OK" key (see FIG. 30F).
At this point, a check mark indicating that "business card scan" has been selected is displayed on the "business card scan" key.

When the user reads the message "Please close the document holder and use it", closes the document cover 33, and presses the "OK" key (see FIG. 30G), the control unit 41 responds to the operation and displays the message. Turn it off. Then, the grayed out "start" key is made selectable (see FIG. 30H). When the cover open / close sensor 35 detects that the document cover 33 is open, the control unit 41 grays out the “start” key so that the operation of starting the business card scan is not accepted.
Note that in the state of FIG. 30H, the single-shot multi-crop of the business card scan is selected. After that, when the user touches the “document number count” key on the screen shown in FIG. 30I (see FIG. 30I), the control unit 41 determines that the continuous shooting multi-crop is selected in response to the operation. In this way, it is possible to select either single-shot multi-crop or continuous-shot multi-crop for the “business card scan”.
The following description will be made assuming that the continuous shooting multi-crop is selected.

The user arranges a plurality of business card originals to be subjected to the multi-crop scan on the original table 20 (see FIG. 30J) and closes the original cover 33. When the user presses the "start" key (see FIG. 30K), the control unit 41 starts batch scanning of photo multi-crop.
Alternatively, when the user touches the “OK” key provided in the upper right corner of the “other function” list display area on the screen of FIG. 30K, the control unit 41 responds to the operation and displays the screen shown in FIG. 30L. Return the display to.

  When the "business card scan" function is selected, the control unit 41 sets the normal reading conditions to the reading conditions suitable for reading the business card original. Items similar to those of the screen shown in FIG. 14A are displayed on the screen of FIG. 30L, but a state in which the settings are changed to conditions suitable for “business card scanning” is shown. Specifically, the "density" is normally set to "automatic", but is set to "character" suitable for the "business card scan" function. Further, the “resolution” is normally set to “200 × 200”, but is set to “400 × 400” which is suitable for the “business card scan” function. Further, as shown in FIG. 30E, regarding the function of the business card scan, the language setting is “Japanese”, the format is vCard format, the PDF image is sent together with the character data, and the read data name is set as the file name. It is assumed that it is set not to use.

When the user presses the “start” key on the screen of FIG. 30K or FIG. 30L, in response to the operation, the control unit 41 controls the scanning unit 21 and the document reading unit 23 to perform operations 1 to 16 shown in FIG. 30J. Scan all 16 business card originals at once. Also, during reading, as shown in FIG. 30M, the message “Reading original. (P.1)” and the operation key for “Stop reading” are displayed.
When the first batch scanning is completed, the cutout unit 25 cuts out images corresponding to the originals 1 to 16. Based on the clipping of the original document by the clipping unit 25, the control unit 41 displays a message "16 originals have been read. (Total: 16 sheets)" along with "Reading completed", "Operation change" and "Start". The operation keys are displayed on the operation display unit 51 to prompt the user to operate (see FIG. 30N). Further, the control unit 41 causes the character recognition unit 29 to perform character recognition on the cut-out image of each business card original, and obtains character data.

When the user arranges 16 business card manuscripts 17 to 32 to be subjected to the next multi-crop scan on the manuscript table 20 (see FIG. 30O) and presses the “Start” key, the control unit responds to the operation. 41 starts the next collective scanning. That is, the scanning unit 21 and the document reading unit 23 are controlled to scan the 16 business card documents shown in FIG.
The control unit 41 handles the image data obtained by the first batch scanning and the image data obtained by the second batch scanning as a series of image data.
When the second batch scanning is completed, the cutout unit 25 cuts out images corresponding to 16 original documents 17 to 32. Based on the clipping of the original document by the clipping unit 25, the control unit 41 displays the message "16 originals have been read. (Total: 32 sheets)" along with "Reading completed", "Operation change" and "Start". The operation key is displayed on the operation display unit 51 (see FIG. 30P). Further, the control unit 41 causes the character recognition unit 29 to perform character recognition on the cut-out image of each business card original, and obtains character data.

  When the user touches the operation key for "reading end" (see FIG. 30Q), the control unit 41 displays the character data of a total of 32 business card originals read and cut out by the two batch scans performed so far. The data is stored in the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71 together with the data. When the writing to the USB memory is completed, the control unit 41 causes the operation display unit 51 to display a message “Data writing is completed (P.2)” (see FIG. 30R).

As shown in FIG. 31, the control unit 41 saves a pair of character data and image data corresponding to a total of 32 cut out originals in a USB memory as 64 files stored in one folder. The file names given to the 64 files include information on the date and time when the first batch scan was executed. The same date and time indicates the relevance of 64 files. The character data and the image data forming a pair have the same file name but different extensions indicating the file types.
The first pair of file names “image20150123_0925_0001” among the plural pairs of files shown in FIG. 31 are described. The part “20150123” represents the date of January 23, 2015, and the part “0925” following it. Indicates the time of 9:25. The 16 files were read by the continuous shooting multi-crop and have the same date and time information. Then, at the end of the file name of each file, a serial number of 0001 to 0032 indicating their relationship is added. The file extension "vcf" indicates that it is a vCard format character data file, and the file extension "pdf" indicates that it is PDF format image data.

Note that the mode shown in FIG. 31 is a case in which “use read name as file name” is not selected and the character-recognized name is not used as the output file name.
On the other hand, FIG. 32 shows a mode in which “use read name as file name” is selected and the character-recognized name is used as the output file name.
In FIG. 32, the first pair is the name in which "Ichiro Ito" is recognized as a character. In the second pair, "Kazuo Ueda" is the name by which the character was recognized. Similarly, "Taro Sato" is the character name in the third pair and "Hanako Tanaka" is the character name in the fourth pair, and these names are used as the file name.

≪Process for reading business card manuscript≫
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a procedure for reading a business card original, which is a procedure in the case of single-shot multi-crop. Since FIG. 33 substantially corresponds to each step of the single-shot multi-crop of FIG. 18, only different points will be described.
In step S73, the business card original is placed on the original table. However, the control unit 41 does not recognize the business card document by the detection of the document size detection unit 31, but assumes that the business card document is generated by pressing the "business card scan" key. Is not the difference in the processing of the control unit 41.

In step S83, the character recognition unit 29 generates character data based on the image data. In step S43 of FIG. 18, processing is different from steps S83 and S43 in that only image data is generated. Note that the data transferred in step S85 is also character data (image data is also transferred according to selection), which is also different from the process in step S45 of FIG.
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for reading a business card original, which is a procedure in the case of continuous shooting multi-crop. Since FIG. 33 substantially corresponds to each step of the continuous shooting multi-crop of FIG. 26, only different points will be described.

In step S93, the business card original is placed on the original table. However, since the control unit 41 does not recognize the business card document by the detection of the document size detection unit 31 but the business card document is assumed by pressing the “business card scan” key, it is assumed that step S93 and step S53 in FIG. Is not the difference in the processing of the control unit 41.
In step S103, the character recognition unit 29 generates character data based on the image data. The processing is different in that only image data is generated in step S63 of FIG. Note that the data transferred in step S107 is also character data (image data is also transferred according to selection), which is also different from the process in step S67 of FIG.
Further, the file prepared as a series of image data in step S109 is also character data (pair with image data depending on selection), which is also different from the process in step S69 of FIG.

<< Preview and reload the business card manuscript >>
The preview function can be used for standard size originals and normal multi-crop scanning, but in the case of business card scanning, you can check the read status in the preview before recognizing characters, and you can redo the reading. It will be described as a feature related to recognition.
30S and 30T are explanatory diagrams showing a preview operation when a business card scan is performed by the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

  For example, in the screens of FIGS. 30K and 30L, the “preview” key is displayed above the “start” key. As described above, when the “start” key is touched, the control unit 41 scans and cuts out the business card scan all at once, and transfers it to the designated output destination (for example, the USB memory connected to the USB connector 71). Here, when the “preview” key is touched instead of the “start” key (see FIG. 30S), the control unit 41 displays the image of each business card document on the screen of the operation display unit 51 instead of the designated output destination. Is displayed. This is the preview function.

FIG. 30T shows a state in which the first business card of the 16 business cards shown in FIG. 30J read by batch scanning is preview-displayed on the operation display unit 51.
In the case of a business card scan, the document reading unit 23 detects the edge of the business card, that is, the rectangular contour, determines the reference in the vertical and horizontal directions, and corrects the inclination of the document image. Since the business card originals are collectively scanned with the original document cover 33 opened, the contour can be detected by the difference in brightness between the area of the business card original and the area other than the business card.

Even if the business card document placed on the document table 20 is inclined with respect to the scanning direction, the vertical and horizontal directions are determined based on the contour of each business card document to perform character recognition. Higher-precision character recognition is possible as compared with the case of. FIG. 30J shows a preview of the business card image after tilt correction. Further, the document reading unit 23 or the character recognition unit 29 may determine the characters and layout characteristics included in the business card image, and rotate the business card image so that the business card image is upright. By displaying the preview image in the upright state, it is easy for the user to confirm. Also, highly accurate character recognition is possible.
The function of correcting the inclination of the original image may be disabled by setting. By disabling the diagonal correction, the processing time required for the diagonal correction can be shortened.

  When three keys, "-", "+" and a magnifying glass icon key arranged below the previewed business card image are touched, the control unit 41 reduces or enlarges the preview image at a predetermined ratio. Alternatively, the display magnification is specified and the display is controlled to be displayed at the specified magnification. The left rotation key and the right rotation key on the right of the three keys rotate the read image of each business card original by 90 degrees in each direction. Further, a horizontal scroll bar on the right side of the screen accepts an operation of selecting 16 business card images that have been collectively scanned.

A "reload" key is displayed above the "start" key. When the "reread" key is touched, the control unit 41 executes batch scanning again. Before the redone scanning, a screen for accepting the setting change of the reading condition may be displayed (not shown) to accept the selection change.
When the “start” key is touched on the screen of FIG. 30T, the control unit 41 causes the character recognition unit 29 to perform character recognition based on the image of each business card document, and outputs the designated output destination (eg, USB connector). 71 to the USB memory). Depending on the selection, the image data is transferred in pairs.
Alternatively, even if the “start” key is not touched, the character recognition process may be started after a predetermined period has elapsed from the start of displaying the preview image.

As mentioned above,
(I) An image reading apparatus according to the present invention includes an original reading unit that scans a plurality of originals placed on a platen at one time to read the images of the respective originals, and a cutout unit that cuts out the images of the respective originals from the scanned images. , An image output unit for giving a file name to the cut-out image data of each original and outputting each image data in a new folder or an existing folder, the original reading unit, the cutout unit, and the image output unit. And a control unit for controlling, wherein the control unit is capable of processing images of a plurality of originals cut out by batch scanning a plurality of times as a series of image data, and at least for the series of image data, at least in advance. The image output unit is controlled so as to give a series of file names according to a set rule, output in the same folder, or store each image data in association with each other. It is characterized by
In the present invention, the document table is a place where the document is placed when the image of the document is read, and the document reading section reads the image of the document placed on the document table. A specific mode is, for example, a region in which a plate made of transparent glass or transparent resin is placed in the horizontal direction, and the original is placed on the plate with the surface to be read facing downward. The document reading unit scans the document from below the plate upward to read an image. However, the essence of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention also includes a document placed on an opaque or transparent document table with the surface to be read facing upward and the document is scanned from above the document table.
The original is generally a flat sheet, but is not limited to this, and may have irregularities or a three-dimensional object.
In the multi-cropping process, the images of each document are cut out by performing a batch scan with a plurality of documents placed on the document table at the same time. The process of sequentially replacing and reading the sheets one by one is not included in the collective scanning.
Cutting out an image of an original means extracting the image area corresponding to each original from the entire reading area that is scanned by batch scanning and performing trimming.In multi-cropping processing, the original area is extracted from the entire reading area. Extract a plurality of corresponding image regions.

Further, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described.
(Ii) The control unit may give a file name including common time information for the series of image data.
In this way, the relevance of a series of image data can be recognized by the common time information given to the file name. In addition, the time information itself is convenient because it makes it easy for the user to draft the relationship of each file.

(Iii) The time information may be time information related to the first batch scanning.
By doing so, even when performing batch scanning a plurality of times, a series of file names based on the time information regarding the first batch scanning can be given to have a relationship. For the user, the time information regarding the first scan at which the reading is started is likely to remain in the memory, and it is convenient for the user to easily draft what relationship each image data has.

(Iv) The control unit creates a new folder and outputs each image data in the folder, and the folder includes the image so that the folder name includes time information related to the first batch scanning. You may control an output part.
By doing so, the relationship between a series of image data can be recognized by storing each image data in the newly created folder. In addition, the folder name including the time information regarding the first scan is convenient for the user to easily draft the relationship between the image data in the folder.

(V) The image output unit may transmit image data to an external destination designated in advance via communication, and the control unit may transmit a series of image data to the same destination.
In this way, since a series of image data is transmitted to the same external destination, the user can easily recognize the relevance of each image data at the destination as well.

(Vi) An operation key that accepts designation that each type of document is a business card, and a character recognition unit that character-recognizes the image of each document cut out designated as a business card and outputs character data The image output section outputs the character data with a file name instead of or together with the image data of each original, and the control section outputs the image data of each original and the character recognition section to copy the original. The image output unit may be controlled so as to give a file name corresponding to the recognized and output character data.
According to this aspect, a plurality of business cards are collectively scanned and character recognition is performed and then output as character data, and the file name corresponding to the character data of each business card and the image data of the business card is given. Can be output as data.
The user can understand the image data of the business card and the character data corresponding to it from the given file name.
The operation key for accepting the designation of a business card in the above-described embodiment is the “business card scan” key.

(Vii) The operation key accepts selection of whether or not to output the image data of the original document together with the character data output by the character recognition unit for each original document designated as a business card, and the control unit Depending on the selection, whether to output only the character data or the image data together with the character data may be controlled.
According to this aspect, the user can select whether to output only the character data of each name card document or the image data together with the character data before performing the name card scan.

(Viii) The control unit may control the image output unit so as to give a file name to each document designated as a business card by using the character data output by the character recognition unit.
According to this aspect, since the result of character recognition can be included in the file name, the user can easily recognize the contents of the character data and the image data.
The character data added to the file name may be the name as in the above-described embodiment, but is not limited to this, and may be other items such as the company name described on the business card. The user may be allowed to select which item is added to the file name.
(Ix) A display unit is further provided for displaying a preview image of each manuscript that has been operated, and when the manuscript designated as a business card is read, the display unit previews each scanned manuscript on the display unit. Then, the operation key accepts a selection of causing the character recognition unit to perform character recognition of each scanned document image or rescanning of each document at a time when each document is preview-displayed or at a time thereafter. The control unit may cause the character recognition unit to perform character recognition based on the selection, or may cause the document reading unit to rescan each document.
According to this aspect, the character data is generated. (X) The document reading unit reads the image of each document based on a plurality of image reading conditions according to the type of document, and the control unit causes the document to be a business card. When the operation key accepts the designation that there is, the image reading condition may be switched to the setting corresponding to the reading of the business card.
In a business card manuscript, necessary information can be obtained mainly from characters written on the business card, but small characters are used for a business card as compared with a general manuscript.
According to this aspect, in the case of the business card scan, the control unit sets the reading conditions suitable for the business card original, so that the reading conditions suitable for recognizing a small character are set without bothering the user. The setting corresponding to the reading of the business card may be predetermined. Further, the setting may be changed for each image reading device.
(Xi) A document cover that is openable and closable with respect to the document table and holds a document placed on the document table; and a cover open / close sensor that detects an open / closed state of the document cover. When scanning a document specified as, the operation guide is displayed on the display unit so that scanning is performed with the document cover opened, and the document is scanned when the cover open / close sensor detects the closed state. It may not be performed.
According to this aspect, when reading the business card original, the edge of the business card is recognized by scanning with the original cover open. As a result, a large difference in lightness and darkness occurs in the read image in the area of the business card original and the area other than the business card, and each business card original can be accurately cut out along the edge thereof.
(Xii) The document reading unit detects an edge of a document designated as a business card, and the character recognition unit erects a character to be recognized based on the detected edge direction and the character feature. As described above, a tilt correction function for correcting the tilt of each original is provided, and the tilt correction function may be enabled or disabled depending on the setting.
According to this aspect,
A preferable aspect of the present invention also includes a combination of any of the above-described plurality of aspects.
In addition to the above-described embodiment, there may be various modified examples of the present invention. These modifications should not be understood as not belonging to the scope of the present invention. This invention should include the meanings equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope.

10: Digital multi-function peripheral, 11: Image reading device, 12: Image forming device, 20: Document table, 20a: Corner mark, 20b: Document, 21: Scanning part, 23: Document reading part, 25: Cutout part, 27: Image output unit, 29: Character recognition unit, 31: Document size detection unit, 31a: Light emitting device, 31b: Document table top surface, 31c: Slit, 31d: Light receiving device, 33: Document cover, 35: Cover open / close sensor, 41: Control unit, 43: storage unit, 45: communication unit, 51: operation display unit, 51a: display unit, 51b: operation key, 61: image receiving unit, 63: image forming unit, 65: sheet supply unit, 67: sheet Conveying unit, 69: Sheet output unit, 71: USB connectors D01, D02, D03, D04, D05, D06, D07: Light emitting element, F: Finger

Claims (10)

An original reading unit that scans a plurality of originals placed on a platen at a time and reads the images of each original,
A cutout unit that cuts out the image of each original from the scanned image,
Assign a file name to the image data of each clipped original, create a new folder and output each image data to the created folder, or output each image data without creating a new folder. Department,
An operation key that accepts the designation that each document type is a business card,
A character recognition unit that character-recognizes the image of each business card manuscript cut out after being designated as a business card, and outputs character data,
A control unit that controls the document reading unit, the cutout unit, and the image output unit;
The image output unit outputs a file name to the character data together with or instead of the image data of each business card original,
The operation key accepts selection of whether or not to output the image data of the business card original together with the character data for each business card original,
The control unit can process images of a plurality of originals cut out by batch scanning a plurality of times as a series of image data, and at least a series of files according to a predetermined rule for the series of image data. Whether to give a name, output in the same folder, or control the image output unit to store each image data in association with each other, and output only character data in accordance with the selection accepted by the operation key. An image reading apparatus that determines whether to output image data together with character data, and controls so as to give a file name corresponding to the image data and the character data when outputting the character data together with the image data .   The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit assigns a file name including common time information to the series of image data.   The image reading apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the time information is time information related to the first batch scanning.   The control unit creates a new folder and outputs each image data in the folder, and the folder controls the image output unit to include time information related to the first batch scanning in the folder name. The image reading device according to claim 2, which is controlled. The image output unit transmits image data to an external destination designated in advance via communication,
The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit transmits a series of image data to the same destination. Wherein, for each document that is designated to be a business card, the read image according to claim 1 for controlling the image output unit so as to impart a file name using the character data in which the character recognition unit has output apparatus. Further, a display unit for displaying a preview image of each operated original is provided.
The display unit displays a preview of each scanned document on the display unit when reading a document designated as a business card,
The operation key accepts a selection of causing the character recognition unit to perform character recognition of each scanned document image or rescanning of each document at a time when each document is preview-displayed or at a time thereafter.
Wherein the control unit includes an image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 for redo the scanning of each document or to perform character recognition on the character recognition unit or the original reading portion based on the selected . The document reading unit reads an image of each document based on a plurality of image reading conditions according to the type of document,
Wherein, when the document is accepted designation of that the business card has the operation key, an image according to any one of claims 1 to 7 for switching the image reading condition set corresponding to the reading of business cards Reader. An original cover that is openable and closable with respect to the original table and holds an original placed on the original table,
A cover open / close sensor for detecting the open / closed state of the document cover,
When reading a document designated as a business card, the control unit displays operation guidance on the display unit so that the document is scanned with the document cover opened, and detects that the cover opening / closing sensor is closed. The image reading apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein scanning of the document is not performed in this case. The document reading unit detects an edge of a document designated as a business card,
The character recognition unit has a tilt correction function for correcting the tilt of each document so that the character to be recognized is upright based on the detected edge direction and the characteristics of the character,
The inclination correction function, the image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9 can be enabled or disabled by setting.