JP6731526B2 - Image reader - Google Patents

Description

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

When scanning small documents such as business cards, postcards, and photographs, the multi-cropping function that scans multiple documents in a row while placing them side by side on the platen and cuts out the image corresponding to each document , And an image reading apparatus having the multi-cropping function thereof are known.
For example, it is proposed that the number of originals and the original position are detected by pre-scan, the originals are scanned one by one, and the number of originals currently being scanned is displayed 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 and accurately detect the number of cropped images desired by the user is compared with the number of detected originals and displayed (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

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

One of the useful methods for cropping an image corresponding to each original is to create an area outside the original on the assumption that the original has a rectangular shape and the edges of the original are white or have low density. The boundary of is extracted. The area outside the original is read in black or in high density so that the boundary can be clearly read. For example, consider an image reading apparatus of a type that irradiates the original surface with light from below and reads the reflected light diffusely reflected by the original surface. When reading a document, the document cover is usually used to press the document from above to perform scanning. However, in the case of multi-crop processing, the user is informed that the document cover should be released and scanning should be performed. When scanning is performed with the document cover opened, there is no diffuse reflection of the emitted light in the area outside the document. On the other hand, at the edge of the white or low density document, the reflected light diffusely reflected by the document surface returns. A difference in lightness and darkness occurs in the image read between the edge of the document where the reflected light returns and the area outside the document where it does not return, and the boundary of the document can be determined based on the lightness and darkness. Instead of performing the batch scanning with the original cover opened, the lower surface of the original cover is made black or has high density to absorb light, or the lower surface of the original cover is in a state with less irregular reflection, for example, mirror finish. It may be a metal surface.

By the way, in a manuscript such as a general office document, characters, figures, images, etc. are drawn on a white paper, and a margin has a margin .
The present invention was made in view of the circumstances described above, in which the concentration of the edges to provide a suitable cut out an image reading apparatus an image of low density of the original.

The present invention relates to a document reading unit that collectively scans a plurality of documents placed on a document table to read the images of the respective documents, and a cutting unit that cuts out the images of the respective documents from the entire reading area read by the batch scanning. And an image output unit for outputting an image of each cut-out document, a document cover that is openable and closable with respect to the document table and holds a document placed on the document table, and an open/closed state of the document cover is detected. A cover opening/closing sensor and a control unit that controls the document reading unit, the cutout unit, and the image output unit are provided, and the control unit sets the image region of each document cut out from the entire reading region to the edge portion of each document. The cutout section is controlled so that the image density is determined to be lower than the density of the outside-original reading area based on the density difference between the two, and the batch scanning is permitted when the open/close sensor detects the open state. And an image reading device for performing the same.

In the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit, the image density of the edge of each document is to control the cut out portion to determine a clipping region on the basis of the density difference between them as lower than the concentration of the document outside the reading area , An image of a document having a low density edge portion can be appropriately cut out. Then, scanning can be performed with the document cover opened so that the density difference with the document edge portion becomes larger.

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 where a document is placed at a predetermined position on the document table shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing the 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 each size original of A5-A3 on the original table 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 the positions of 5.5″×8.5″, B5, and 8.5″×11 size originals 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 an inch-size document and a B5 size document are 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. 5 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 document of a fixed size. 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. 13 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. 14 is a fourth 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 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. 16 is a sixth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when reading a document of a standard size. FIG. 17 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 document of a fixed size. 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. 3 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 a process executed by a control unit when the digital multi-function peripheral according to the present invention reads a standard size document.

FIG. 6 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. 14 is a second 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 a third explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing single-shot 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 single-shot multi-crop scan. FIG. 13 is a fifth 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 a sixth 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. 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. 14 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. 14 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. 3 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. 9 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. 6 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a control unit at the time of single-shot multi-crop scanning.

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. 8 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. 6 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 view showing a state in which a plurality of originals for a first batch scanning 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. 13 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. 13 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-functional 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-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 19 is an eighth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-functional peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 13 is a ninth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG. 1 when performing continuous shooting multi-crop scan. FIG. 13 is a tenth explanatory diagram showing an operation procedure of the digital multi-function 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. 9 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. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image obtained by reading a plurality of originals having a light density at an edge portion with the original cover open. FIG. 6 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. 8 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. 8 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. 14 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. 14 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. 16 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. 17 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. 16 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.

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.
A digital multi-function peripheral 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes an image reading device 11 of the present invention and an image forming device 12 for performing 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 platen 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 the file name in the storage unit 43, which is a memory, or in a USB memory connected to a USB connector 71 described later (shown in FIG. 3 described later). 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 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 detectable document size is limited to the size of a predetermined type (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 formed image 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 controller not shown in FIG. 2, but in this embodiment, the controller 41 also performs those controls.

<<Detection of platen and original size>>
The detection of the document table and the document size 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. Hold down and move 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 detecting section 31 including the part 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 original 20b is placed at a predetermined position on the original table 20 shown in FIG. A document is placed on the document 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 for placing the document 20b, 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 the direction indicated by an arrow M in FIG. 4 (hereinafter referred to as the 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 in alignment with the corner mark 20a. Further, FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram showing the positions of originals A5 to A3 in size 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 in alignment with the corner mark 20a.
FIG. 5C is an explanatory diagram showing how the document size detection unit 31 detects the size when a document of each size of the AB system is 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 of the light emitting elements emits light from the upper side of the document table 20 toward 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, it reaches 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 the light emitting element, the slit, and the 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 emitted 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 turning state, each infrared beam is 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 AB type originals (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 the area where the 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 sizes 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. Thus, 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 original size so as to create a margin of about 1 to 10 mm around each original 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 for reading a document image when a standard size document is placed on the document table 20 will be described. The present invention relates to the multi-crop scan. However, the features of the multi-crop scan of the present invention will be easily understood 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 document of a standard size.
FIG. 11A shows an example of an 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) related to 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 reading settings such as “file name”, “color mode”, “resolution”, “format”, “original”, and “density” are arranged. Further, a "reset" key for resetting the setting and a "start" key for starting the 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 whether to read in color, gray scale, or monochrome. "Resolution" is an operation key for selecting the reading resolution. “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. The user makes settings using these operation keys as necessary.
When the user places a standard-sized document on a predetermined position of 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 a reading area according to the document size and read the document. Further, as shown in FIG. 11E, during reading, the operation display section 51 displays a message “Reading original. (P.1)” and an operation key “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 ends 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 a detection beam pattern 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 reading is for the second page.

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 finishes 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 image data of the read 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, in the file name “image20150123_0918.pdf” shown in FIG. 12, the part “20150123” 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 section 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 document reading condition (step S11, corresponding to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C), and the document size detection unit 31 is activated. The process waits until the document placed on the document table 20 is detected (step S13).
When the document size detecting 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 state in the standby state is passed through the operation screens of FIGS. 11A and 11B to 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. The "multi-crop" key is displayed as one of the other functions on the screen of FIG. 14C. Although the "photo multi-crop" key is also related to the present invention, this function will be described later, and the "multi-crop" will be described first. In addition, in this specification, "photo multi-crop" is also called "reverse 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 and use it" 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 between the light background color of the document and the black of the area outside the document.
When the user reads the message "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 By controlling the document reading unit 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 "stop reading" as shown in FIG. 16B. “(P.1)” in the message indicates that the first batch scan is being executed.
Note that the control unit 41 can acquire the open/closed state of the document cover 33 by the cover open/close sensor 35. Therefore, 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).
Also, 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 displayed. 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 is determined by the control unit 41 based on the original size detected by the original 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 AB type maximum document size 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. Specifically, when a blank space of 10 mm is provided around the document, the main scanning direction is 277 mm smaller by 20 mm in both ends in the main scanning direction, and the sub scanning direction is 400 mm smaller by 10 mm in both ends in the sub-scanning direction. The image in the margin 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 with a plurality of documents arranged side by side as shown in FIG. Therefore, when the multi-crop is selected, an area having no A3 size margin, that is, an area having a size of 297 mm in the main scanning direction and an area of 420 mm in the sub scanning direction may be used as the reading area, instead of the reading area for the A3 size. 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 type and the inch type standard document size, when the multi-crop is selected, the inch type maximum document size is 11" in the main scanning direction. The reading area may be 297 mm, which is larger than 279.4 mm and corresponds to A3 size. On the other hand, in the sub-scanning direction, the maximum original size of inch is 17" which is larger than 420 mm of A3 size which is the maximum size of AB system. =431.8 mm should be the reading area. In this manner, 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 for 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 this manner, 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 background color without characters or images. However, even if this assumption is not locally satisfied, the area of each original can be correctly cut out based on the assumption that the original is rectangular.
From another point of view, if the premise that all the edges of the manuscript are light ground color is established at all places, it is necessary to cut out the area of each manuscript correctly without assuming that the manuscript is rectangular. 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 batch scanning only once (referred to as single-shot multi-crop in this specification), but a function of performing batch scanning a plurality of times (this specification). Called continuous shooting multi-crop) can be selected 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 of 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 date and time when the originals 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 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 known (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 relevance. The information indicating the relevance may be information other than the serial number, for example, the 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 a known linked list format so that the relationship of a series of image data can be seen (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, a mode in which image data is stored in the USB memory is described as an example. However, other aspects are possible. For example, when transmitting image data to an external device connected via a network and storing the image data 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 for scanning 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 scan condition and the multi-crop (step S31, corresponding to FIGS. 14A to 14D). After that, the user is informed that the document size cover is opened and used (corresponding to FIGS. 14E to 14F). Then, a plurality of originals are placed side by side on the original 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. Similarly to the standard size document, the multi-crop scan 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 S45), the user is notified of the transfer completion (step S47, corresponding to FIG. 16C), and the process ends.

<<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 correctly detected.
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 of 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. 7.
In the above-described embodiment, since the multi-crop is selected, the control unit 41 sets the maximum area that can be read regardless of the pattern of the detection beam obtained by the document size detection unit 31 as the reading area.

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 detecting 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 a detection beam pattern that cannot be a standard-sized 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 lined up on the document table 20 and perform the multi-crop scan. That is, when the detection pattern by the document size detection unit 31 does not correspond to any of the predetermined standard document sizes, the multi-cropping process is controlled. Alternatively, the control unit 41 may cause the operation display unit 51 to display a message for 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 a document on the document table 20. Therefore, when the pattern of the detection beam is in a state in which 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 a plurality of times>>
20A to 20B, FIG. 21, FIG. 22A to FIG. 22C, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24A to FIG. 24E are operations for selecting the continuous shooting multi-crop of the digital multi-function peripheral 10 and reading an original by batch scanning a plurality of times. 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 count" key to notify the user that multi-cropping including the count 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 "count the number of originals" key are combined to select the continuous-shot multi-crop, but as another mode, "single-shot multi-crop" and "continuous-shot multi-crop" are completely different operations. 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, a message of “Reading original. (P.1)” and an operation key of “Reading stop” 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 the four originals 5 to 8 to be the objects 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 cutout of the original by the cutout unit 25, the control unit 41 displays a message of "4 originals have been read. (total: 8 sheets)" together 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. It means 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 the total of eight originals read and cut out by the two batch scans performed so far. It 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” of 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 by 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 name of the folder 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 collective scan 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 collective scans. That is, it is considered easy to remember the contents of the file from the time information attached to the file name.
25A and 25B, the serial number added to the end of each file is only one mode of 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 FIGS. 20A and 20B), and a plurality of originals are placed side by side on the platen 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, the process 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 finally read document (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, it is already described that 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 the original, there are some whose edges have a dark color. 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. If 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 in which a night view is photographed, it is better to read it 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 edge 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 images of the originals are stored in the memory after reversing the shade. By doing so, the image can be cut out by the same process because the outside-of-document 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 of reading a photographic original having a plurality of borders with a light density at the edge portion with the original cover open.
FIG. 27B shows an example of an image read by batch scanning with the photo multi-crop. 9 is an example of an image obtained by reading a plurality of borderless photo originals having a 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 the photo multi-crop scan is performed by the digital multi-function peripheral 10.

When the photo multi-crop is selected, the state of waiting is brought to a state in which 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), the control unit 41 displays a check mark on the "photo multi-crop" key indicating that "photo multi-crop" has been selected in response to the operation. 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 opening/closing sensor 35, the "start" key is disabled to prevent batch scanning from starting while the document cover 33 is open. (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 a photo multi-crop by an operation procedure different from the above example will be described.
29A to 29I are explanatory diagrams showing an example of a different operation procedure for performing the photo multi-crop scan with the digital multi-function peripheral 10.
Similar to the above example, when the photo multi-crop is selected, the standby state is reached, and the screen of FIG. 29A is displayed through 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 described above (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 when using" 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, it is the same as the operation procedure of the photo multi-crop described above.

As mentioned above,
(I) The image reading apparatus according to the present invention includes a document reading unit that collectively scans a plurality of documents placed on a document table to read the images of the respective documents at once, and an entire reading area that is read by the batch scanning. The control unit includes a cutout unit that cuts out an image of a document, an image output unit that outputs the cutout image of each document, and a control unit that controls the document reading unit, the cutout unit, and the image output unit. , Inverted multi-cropping processing that determines the cutout area based on the density difference between the originals as the image density at the edge of each original is higher than the density of the original outside reading area, and the image density at the edge of each original is outside the original reading area. It is characterized in that it can be executed by switching the non-inverted multi-crop processing for determining the cutout area based on the density difference between the two.
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 unit reads the image of the document placed on the document table. The 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 image of each document is cut out by performing a batch scan with a plurality of documents placed on the platen at the same time. The batch scanning does not include the process of sequentially replacing and reading the sheets one by one.
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) An operation input unit may be further provided that accepts a user's selection of the inverted multi-crop processing and the non-inverted multi-crop processing.
In this way, the reverse multi-crop process and the non-reverse multi-crop process are selected based on the user's operation of placing a plurality of originals on the platen. It is possible to set the high-density originals to be collectively scanned and to appropriately cut out the images of the originals by using the scan input unit.

(Iii) The operation input unit allows a user to select a feature of the document image, and the control unit controls the reverse multi-cropping process or the non-reverse multi-process based on the feature of the document image selected by the operation input unit. You may decide whether it is a crop process.
In this way, the user can select the reverse multi-crop processing or the non-reverse multi-crop processing based on the characteristics of the document image to be collectively scanned, not the image processing procedure or the like. Can be easily understood and an appropriate choice can be made.

(Iv) A document cover that is openable and closable with respect to the document table and that holds a document placed on the document table; and a display unit that displays a guide regarding the operation to the user are further provided, and the control unit has a reverse multi-cropping process. If the document cover is open, the operation guide is displayed on the display unit, and in the case of non-reverse multi-crop processing, the operation guide is displayed on the display unit to scan the document cover closed. May be.
By doing this, scanning is performed with the document cover open or closed so that the density difference with the document edge becomes larger depending on whether the reverse multi-crop process or the non-reverse multi-crop process is selected. You can

(V) A cover open/close sensor for detecting the open/closed state of the original cover is further provided, and the control unit detects the closed state of the cover open/close sensor even though the original cover is displayed for scanning. The scanning may be suppressed when the cover opening/closing sensor detects that the cover open/close sensor is open even though the document cover is closed and the scanning is displayed.
By doing this, depending on whether the reverse multi-crop processing or the non-reverse multi-crop processing is selected, the document cover is securely opened or closed so that the density difference with the document edge becomes larger. It is possible to carry out batch scanning in the state of being set.
The preferred embodiment of the present invention also includes a combination of any of the above-described plurality of embodiments.
In addition to the above-described embodiment, there may be various modifications 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 equivalents of 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, 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 opening/closing sensor, 41: Control unit, 43: Memory 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 (2)

A document reading unit that scans a plurality of documents placed on a platen at a time to read the images of each document at once,
A cutout unit that cuts out an image of each original from the entire reading area read by the batch scanning,
An image output unit that outputs the image of each cut out original,
A document cover which is provided to be openable and closable with respect to the document table and holds a document placed on the document table,
A cover open/close sensor for detecting the open/closed state of the document cover,
A control unit that controls the document reading unit, the cutout unit, and the image output unit,
The control section determines the image area of each original to be cut out from the entire reading area based on the density difference between the two assuming that the image density of the edge portion of each original is lower than the density of the outside original reading area. An image reading apparatus that controls and allows the collective scanning when the cover open/close sensor detects an open state. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit suppresses the collective scanning when the cover opening/closing sensor detects a closed state.