JP5603038B2 - Information reading system, flatbed scanner and sheet feed scanner - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information reading system, a flatbed scanner, and a sheet feed scanner that read information on a sheet such as a document.

  In general, an image reading apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a scanner), which is one of information reading apparatuses, includes a sheet feed scanner having a sheet feed function, a flat bed scanner, and a scanner (hereinafter referred to as a sheet feed function and a flat bed function) integrated with each other. There are three types: a composite scanner. These are properly used according to the application. For example, a sheet feed scanner is suitable for scanning a large amount of documents. A flatbed scanner is suitable when you want to scan a book. The composite scanner has both uses.

  Since the composite scanner has a sheet feed function and a flatbed function integrated, it can be used for various purposes. However, the size of the composite scanner is generally large and is not portable. Therefore, a composite scanner is not suitable for users who also want portability. Therefore, a user who desires portability purchases a flatbed scanner and a sheet feed scanner, and uses them separately according to the application. Also, since these scanners are relatively small, they can be cleared from the desk when not in use.

  Incidentally, a scanner is generally used by being connected to a personal computer (PC) via a connection interface such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus). The scanner is controlled by a program module called a scanner driver that mediates between an application and the scanner. An image read by the scanner is passed to an application program (hereinafter referred to as application) via a scanner driver, and the application displays or saves the image.

  When a flat bed scanner and a sheet feed scanner are purchased, a user must install a flat bed scanner driver (hereinafter referred to as a flat bed driver) and a sheet feed scanner driver (hereinafter referred to as a sheet feed driver) on the PC. Furthermore, the user must select a scanner driver corresponding to the scanner to be used while executing the application. When a scanner driver is selected, the application must unload the previously selected scanner driver from memory, load the newly selected scanner driver into memory, and initialize the scanner through the loaded scanner driver. is there. These processes are generally time-consuming processes. Therefore, the user may feel stress every time the scanner to be used is switched.

  In order to solve this problem, in Patent Document 1, a platen scanner (flatbed scanner) can be connected to a sheet feed scanner, and an image read by the flatbed scanner is subjected to image processing in the sheet feed scanner.

JP 2003-234864 A

  In the scanner system described in Patent Document 1 described above, the sheet feed scanner and the flat bed scanner are connected by a dedicated platen interface, and the sheet feed scanner controls the flat bed scanner.

  Therefore, in the scanner system described in Patent Document 1, an interface dedicated to the platen scanner is necessary for the sheet feed scanner in advance. That is, if the sheet feed scanner does not have an interface for the platen scanner, it is a matter of course that the platen scanner cannot be used.

  Further, the flatbed scanner described in Patent Document 1 has a configuration that does not function without a sheet feed scanner. That is, the flatbed scanner completely depends on the sheet feed scanner (Patent Document 1, paragraph [0031], etc.) and cannot be used by being connected to a PC alone.

Therefore, in order to connect a flood bed scanner to an existing sheet feed scanner, it is necessary to modify the existing sheet feed scanner, which is an additional use of the flood bed scanner for the existing sheet feed scanner. It is an obstacle.

  Note that the above-described problem may occur similarly when a plurality of information reading apparatuses are used by the information processing apparatus.

  Accordingly, in view of the above-described circumstances, the present invention can connect another information reading device to an existing information reading device without modifying the existing information reading device, and each information reading device can be connected to each other. An object is to provide an information reading apparatus and an image reading apparatus that can be used independently or as one information reading unit.

In order to achieve the above object, an information reading system of the present invention includes a flatbed scanner that is connected to an information processing apparatus and reads information on a sheet located in a reading area;
A sheet feed scanner that is connected to the flatbed scanner and reads information of a sheet being conveyed,
The flatbed scanner has a plurality of connection portions to which the information processing apparatus and the sheet feed scanner can be connected,
The sheet feed scanner has a connection portion connectable to the information processing apparatus or the flat bed scanner,
When the sheet feed scanner is connected to the flat bed scanner and the flat bed scanner is connected to the information processing apparatus, a reading instruction from the information processing apparatus to the sheet feed scanner is While being transmitted to the sheet feed scanner via the connecting portion of the flat bed scanner, a reading instruction to the flat bed scanner from the information processing apparatus is transmitted to the flat bed scanner, and the sheet feed scanner The read image read is transmitted to the information processing apparatus via the connecting portion of the flat bed scanner without being subjected to image processing in the flat bed scanner, while the read image read by the flat bed scanner is From the flatbed scanner So as to be transmitted to the serial information processing apparatus, the reading processing of the flatbed scanner from the information processing apparatus, the reading process of the sheet-fed scanner from the information processing device is independently controlled,
The flood bed driver for controlling the flat bed scanner corresponds to a communication protocol for communicating with an application program in the information processing apparatus, and a communication protocol for communicating with the flat bed scanner,
The sheet feed driver for controlling the sheet feed scanner corresponds to a communication protocol for communicating with the application program, and a communication protocol for communicating with the sheet feed scanner,
The flood bed driver corresponds to a communication protocol for communicating with the sheet feed driver as the application program .

  According to the present invention, another information reading device can be connected to the existing information reading device without modifying the existing information reading device, and each information reading device can be used independently or as one information reading unit. There is an effect.

The figure which shows the structure of a sheet feed scanner. The figure which shows the structure of a flat bed scanner. The block diagram which shows schematic structure of the electric circuit of a sheet feed scanner. The block diagram which shows schematic structure of the electric circuit of a flat bed scanner. The block diagram which shows schematic structure of the electric circuit of PC. The figure which shows the structure of the application and scanner driver on PC. The figure which connected simultaneously the sheet feed scanner and the flatbed scanner to PC. The figure which shows the structure of a some scanner driver in PC. The flowchart figure which showed the load process of the flat bed driver. The user interface figure which a flatbed driver displays. The setting dialog figure for setting ON / OFF of a blank paper detection function. The flowchart figure which showed an example of the automatic reading method. The figure which showed an example of the common user interface. The figure which showed an example of the dialog for scanner selection. The figure which showed the other example of the user interface. The figure for demonstrating the mounting position of an image process part. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another image reading apparatus that is an example of an information reading apparatus according to a third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another image reading apparatus that is an example of an information reading apparatus according to a third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another image reading apparatus that is an example of an information reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another image reading apparatus that is an example of an information reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another image reading apparatus that is an example of an information reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another image reading apparatus that is an example of an information reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on embodiments. It should be noted that the individual embodiments described below will be useful for understanding various concepts such as the superordinate concept, the intermediate concept and the subordinate concept of the present invention. Further, the technical scope of the present invention is determined by the scope of the claims, and is not limited by the following individual embodiments.
(Embodiment 1)

  Hereinafter, in this embodiment, as an image reading apparatus which is an example of an information reading apparatus, a plurality of image reading apparatuses of different types (for example, reading formats) and these image reading apparatuses can be connected in parallel or in series. An image reading system including an information processing apparatus will be described.

Note that the image reading system only needs to include at least two image reading apparatuses. That is, there may be one image reading apparatus of the first reading format and one image reading apparatus of the second reading format, or one image reading apparatus of the second reading format and the first. There may be two image reading apparatuses of the reading format.

The connection form of the image reading apparatus to the information processing apparatus is also a serial connection form in which two image reading apparatuses are connected to the information processing apparatus via one image reading apparatus. may be may be a parallel connection form two image reading apparatus Ru is connected to the information processing apparatus in parallel (parallel), or parallel connection form a series connection form may be mixed.

  In this embodiment, a driver of one image reading device among control programs for controlling the image reading device behaves as if it is an application program for a driver of another image reading device.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a sheet feed scanner 1 according to the embodiment. The sheet feed scanner 1 is an example of a second image reading device (second information reading device) connected to the first image reading device (first information reading device).

  The sheet feed scanner is sometimes called a sheet-through scanner. When scanning is started, the sheet feed scanner 1 uses the document detection sensor 9 to determine whether or not the document D exists.

  If the document D exists, the line image sensor 5 reads the white facing member 7 and the sheet feed scanner 1 generates correction data for shading correction. The generated correction data is stored in the memory for each pixel.

  The pickup roller 2 and the feeding roller 3 take in a bundle of documents D into the sheet feed scanner 1. The separation roller 4 separates the bundle into original documents one by one. The first roller pair 8a conveys the separated original D in the sub-scanning direction (original conveying direction), and the line image sensor 5 transfers the image formed on the upper surface of the original D in the main scanning direction (original conveying direction). Read in the direction perpendicular to the axis).

  The sheet feed scanner 1 performs shading correction on the read image using the correction data read from the memory. After the image is read, the document D is discharged out of the apparatus by the second roller pair 8b.

  In the present embodiment, the sheet feed scanner 1 is illustrated with the sheet conveyance path being substantially horizontal. However, of course, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a sheet feeding unit and a sheet discharging unit are arranged up and down to feed the sheet. It may be a U-turn path type scanner that discharges to a sheet discharge section through a conveyance path curved in a U shape from the section.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the flatbed scanner 10 according to the embodiment. The flatbed scanner 10 is an example of a first image reading device connected to an information processing device.

  The operator opens the flat bed cover 14 and places the document D on the glass surface 11. When scanning is started, the flatbed scanner 10 reads the white facing member 15 with the line image sensor 12 and generates correction data for shading correction. The generated correction data is stored in the memory for each pixel.

  In the present embodiment, the line image sensor 12 reads an image formed on the lower surface of the document D along the main scanning direction while moving in the sub scanning direction by the moving unit 13. The flatbed scanner 10 reads correction data from the memory and executes shading correction on the image. After the scan is completed, the line image sensor 12 is returned to the original position by the moving unit 13.

In the above-described embodiment, the flood bed cover 14 is described as a single plate. However, the present invention is of course not limited to this, and is, for example, an opening / closing lid that can be folded at a substantially central portion in the longitudinal direction. Also good. As a result, it is possible to execute scanning with the open / close lid open, and the convenience for the user can be further improved.

  Specifically, the opening / closing lid can be folded in a direction in which the contact surface with the document, that is, the surface on the side facing the glass surface 11 is divided into a plurality of or two parts at a substantially central portion so as to approach each other. . Thereby, even when the open / close lid is opened and closed, the scanner body can read the image of the original on the glass surface 11.

  Also, in the scan mode, pre-scan and main scan are executed, for example, read in the off mode (scan while the light source is turned off) during pre-scan, and in the lighting mode (scan while the light source is turned on) during the main scan. Reading may be performed at a predetermined resolution. The order of the pre-scan and the main scan can be realized first.

Furthermore, at the time of pre-scanning, the influence of external light reflected on the outside of the document is read, and image processing is performed to remove the influence of the external light from the main scan image, so that high quality can be achieved even when the flood bed cover 14 is open. Can be realized.

  Here, “removing the influence of external light” means, for example, the influence of external light incident on an area outside the original in the reading area including the original on the original table (external light from a fluorescent lamp or the like). The effects of change). Specifically, this means that a portion (region) including the influence of external light that is directly incident on the sensor outside the document is excluded from the read image including the image of the document. Including replacement with a predetermined image.

  Further, the “outside of the original” here includes not only the outer peripheral area of the original but also a hole (punch hole) portion such as a binder in the original. When there is a hole in the document in this way, the influence of external light at the hole portion can be removed by the image processing of the present invention described above. This makes it possible to identify the hole portion, and to ensure subsequent hole removal processing (for example, processing such as detecting feature portions such as the hole shape and replacing the hole image with the background color (white, etc.) of the document) There is also an effect that it can be executed.

  Note that the pre-scan may have the same or similar resolution as the main scan, but it is preferable to read at a lower resolution than the main scan. Thereby, the reading time can be shortened, and high-speed scanning can be realized.

  FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an electric circuit of the sheet feed scanner 1.

  The A / D converter 21 converts the output signal of the line image sensor 5 into digital data (image data) after performing analog processing such as amplification and black level clamping.

  The image processing unit 22 performs control of the line image sensor 5, the A / D conversion unit 21, and the like, and performs various image processing (such as shading correction) on the image data output from the A / D conversion unit 21.

  The image memory 23 stores image data. The interface unit 24 is an interface for communicating with an external host device (PC or other scanner device).

  The interface unit 24 is connected to an external host device such as a PC via a signal cable 25. Note that the interface unit 24 may be a wireless interface such as a wireless LAN, wireless USB, or Bluetooth. The interface unit 24 may be a wired interface such as a USB interface or a wired LAN interface. Here, in order to make the explanation easy to understand, it is assumed that the interface unit 24 is a USB interface having a USB hub function.

  The CPU 26 is a control unit that controls the sheet feed scanner 1. The image processing unit 22 and the CPU 26 are connected via a bus 27. The CPU 26 accesses the image memory 23 via the image processing unit 22.

  The drive unit 29 is a motor for driving the pickup roller 2, the feed roller 3, the separation roller 4, and the roller pairs 8a and 8b. The motor driver 28 is a control circuit that controls the drive unit 29 based on an instruction from the CPU 26.

  FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an electric circuit of the flatbed scanner 10.

  The A / D converter 31 converts the output signal of the line image sensor 12 into digital data (image data) after performing analog processing such as amplification and black level clamping.

  The image processing unit 32 performs control of the line image sensor 12, the A / D conversion unit 31, and the like, and various image processing (such as shading correction) on the image data output from the A / D conversion unit 31.

  The image memory 33 stores image data. The interface unit 34 is an interface for communicating with an external host device (PC or other scanner device).

  The interface unit 34 is connected to an external host device such as a PC via a signal cable 35. Note that the interface unit 34 may be a wireless interface such as a wireless LAN, wireless USB, or Bluetooth.

  The interface unit 34 may be a wired interface such as a USB interface or a wired LAN interface. Here, for the sake of easy understanding, it is assumed that the interface unit 34 is a USB interface having a USB hub function.

  The CPU 36 is a control unit that controls the flatbed scanner 10. The image processing unit 32 and the CPU 36 are connected via a bus 37. The CPU 36 accesses the image memory 33 via the image processing unit 32.

  The drive unit 39 is a motor for driving the moving unit 13. The motor driver 38 is a control circuit that controls the drive unit 39 based on an instruction from the CPU 36.

  FIG. 3C is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an electric circuit of the PC 40 according to the embodiment.

  The CPU 46 is a control unit that comprehensively controls each unit of the computer based on the computer program. The CPU 46 controls the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 according to the application program and the scanner driver.

  The ROM 41 is a non-volatile storage unit that stores a control program such as firmware. The RAM 42 is a volatile storage unit that functions as a work area. A hard disk drive (HDD) 43 is a large-capacity storage unit.

  The display device 45 is a display unit for displaying various information to the user. The operation unit 47 is an input unit such as a pointing device or a keyboard.

  The communication interface 44 is a communication unit such as a network communication card. The CPU 46 communicates with the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 via the communication interface 44.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of an application on the PC 40 and a scanner driver. Here, it is assumed that only one of the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 is independently connected to the PC 40.

  When the user purchases the scanner, the application 48 and the scanner driver 49 are installed in the HDD 43 of the PC. The application 48 is an image editing program, an album program, a text editing program, or the like.

  The application 48 is a program (control program) that can input and output information with the first driver or the second driver. Specifically, the application 48 receives image data from the first driver or the second driver. It is an example of the application program to receive.

  The installed application 48 controls the scanners 1 and 10 via the scanner driver 49 and executes image processing on the image data received from the scanner driver 49. Therefore, the application 48 and the CPU 46 function as image processing means for receiving image data from the first control means or the second control means and executing image processing.

Communication between the application 48 and the scanner driver 49 and between the scanner driver 49 and the scanners 1 and 10 are performed according to determined protocols. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the application 48 and the scanner driver 49 communicate with each other using a protocol determined by the Twain standard. The protocol determined by the Twain standard is a first driver interface for communicating with the first driver or the second driver, and is also an example of an application interface for communicating with an application program.

  The protocol determined by the Twain standard is a first interface for the image processing means to communicate with the first control means or the second control means, and the first control means communicates with the image processing means. A second interface for the first control means to communicate with the second control means, and a second interface for the second control means to communicate with the image processing means. It is an example of an interface. It is assumed that communication is performed between the scanner driver 49 and the scanners 1 and 10 using a protocol determined by the SCSI standard.

  As described above, the protocol determined by the SCSI standard is an interface for communicating with the image reading apparatus. Protocols determined by the SCSI standard, however, other protocols may be adopted in the present invention. Note that control commands and image data are transmitted and received between the scanner, driver, and application via these protocols.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram when the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 are simultaneously connected to the PC 40.

The flood bed scanner 10 has a role as a relay between the PC 40 and the sheet feed scanner 1. In the present embodiment, although not shown, the flood bed scanner 10 is provided with a connection portion (for example, a USB connection portion) to the PC 40 and a connection portion (for example, a USB connection portion) to the sheet feed scanner 1. ing. Accordingly, the sheet feed scanner 1 is indirectly connected to the PC 40 via the flood bed scanner 10.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a plurality of scanner drivers in the PC 40. Conventionally, as shown in FIG. 6A, the scanner driver and the scanner are provided on a one-to-one basis. For this reason, the sheet feed driver 49a and the flat bed driver 49b are completely independent, and the two do not cooperate. The user must install the sheet feed driver 49a and the flatbed driver 49b in the PC 40, and switch the scanner driver with the application 48 in accordance with the scanner to be used. When the scanner is switched, the application 48 executes unloading of the scanner driver before switching, loading of the scanner driver after switching, and initialization processing of the scanner. Therefore, this processing time is relatively long.

  Here, the sheet feed driver 49a and the CPU 46 function as second control means for controlling the second image reading apparatus. The flat bed driver 49b and the CPU 46 function as first control means for controlling the first image reading apparatus.

  FIG. 6B shows the configuration of the scanner driver of this embodiment. The flat bed driver 49b is an example of a first driver for controlling the first image reading apparatus.

  The sheet feed driver 49a is an example of a second driver for controlling the second image reading apparatus. When starting the application 48, the CPU 46 first loads the flat bed driver 49b into the RAM 42.

  Further, the CPU 46 loads the sheet feed driver 49a into the RAM 42 in accordance with the flat bed driver 49b. For the sheet feed driver 49 a, the flat bed driver 49 b plays the same role as the application 48. That is, the flatbed driver 49b includes an interface for communicating with the sheet feed driver 49a so as to behave as the application 48 for the sheet feed driver 49a.

  This interface is a protocol determined by the above-described Twain standard, and is an example of a second driver interface for the first driver to communicate with an application interface included in the second driver.

  Note that switching (selection) between the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 is executed on the setting screen of the flatbed driver 49 b activated from the application 48.

  The application program 48 receives image data read by the first image reading apparatus (flatbed scanner 10) via the first driver (flatbed driver 49b).

  The application program 48 is configured to receive data of an image read by the second image reading device (sheet feed scanner 1) via the first driver and the second driver (sheet feed driver 49a). ing.

  As described above, both the flat bed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a are always loaded into the RAM 42 while the application 48 is being executed.

  Therefore, the flatbed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a are loaded into the RAM 42 only once when the application 48 is started. During the execution of the application 48, the flatbed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a are unloaded or reloaded. Does not occur. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it can be said that the switching speed of the scanner is much faster than the conventional example.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the loading process of the flatbed driver 49a executed by the application 48. Here, an example of a load process in which the first driver and the second driver are activated as the application 48 is activated is shown.

  In step S <b> 701, when the CPU 46 of the PC 40 receives an activation instruction for the application 48 from the operation unit 47, the application 48 stored in the HDD 43 is loaded into the RAM 42. As a result, the application 48 is activated.

  In S <b> 702, the CPU 46 loads the flat bed driver 49 b into the RAM 42 according to the application 48. As described above, when the application program is activated when both the first image reading apparatus and the second image reading apparatus are connected to the information processing apparatus, the application program (CPU 46) is changed to the first driver. Are loaded into the memory of the information processing apparatus.

  In S703, the CPU 46 determines whether the sheet feed driver 49a is installed according to the flat bed driver 49b. As described above, the CPU 46 functions as a determination unit that determines whether or not the second driver is installed in the information processing apparatus.

  For example, the CPU 46 refers to a list of sheet feed drivers supported by the flat bed driver 49b, and searches the HDD 43 for a sheet feed driver listed in the list. Alternatively, the sheet feed driver is searched from a registry managed by the OS (operating system). If the sheet feed driver is found by the search, the sheet feed driver is already installed. In this case, the process proceeds to S704. If the sheet feed driver is not installed, the CPU 46 ends the sheet feed driver loading process.

  In step S <b> 704, the CPU 46 determines whether the sheet feed scanner 1 is connected to the PC 40. If the sheet feed scanner 1 is connected to the PC 40, the process proceeds to S705. If the sheet feed scanner 1 is not connected, the CPU 46 ends the sheet feed driver loading process. Therefore, the CPU 46 functions as a loading unit that does not execute loading of the second driver when the second driver is not installed in the information processing apparatus.

  In S705, the CPU 46 reads the sheet feed driver 49a from the HDD 43 according to the flat bed driver 49b and loads it into the RAM 42. As described above, the first driver loads the second driver into the memory of the information processing apparatus. That is, the CPU 46 functions as a loading unit that loads the second driver into the memory of the information processing device when the second driver is installed in the information processing device. Note that when the CPU 46 unloads the flatbed driver 49b in accordance with the application 48, the CPU 46 also unloads the sheet feed driver 49a.

Here, in FIG. 7 described above, as an example of the load process, the second driver (sheet feed driver) is activated after the first driver ( flood bed driver) is activated with the activation of the application 48. Although the case has been described, of course, the present invention is not limited to this. Both drivers may be activated simultaneously with the activation of the application, or the first driver may be activated after the second driver is activated. .

  That is, a plurality of information reading devices can be connected to the PC 40 that is an example of the information processing device, and the first driver that controls the first information reading device among the plurality of information reading devices and the plurality of information reading devices A second driver for controlling a second information reading device different from the first information reading device, and an application program for inputting / outputting information between the first driver and the second driver, Each of the first driver and the second driver may be activated along with the activation of the application program.

  Thus, by automatically starting both drivers, the time required for standby can be shortened. Of course, even if the first driver and the second driver are not linked to the activation of the application program, the second driver may be activated when the first driver is activated, or vice versa.

  Further, in this way, when a plurality of information reading devices are connected to the PC and each driver can be used, the read image of each information reading device is combined by a control program (for example, an application program). It may be. Thereby, the convenience of the user can be further improved as compared with the conventional apparatus in which each scanner is connected and each scanner driver must be switched and used each time.

For example, when reading a front cover or back cover and a plurality of originals arranged between the front cover and the back cover as a single file, the front or back cover is read by a flood bed scanner and a plurality of sheets by a sheet feed scanner. An instruction may be issued to each scanner from the application program so as to read the document. In this case, the scanners may be driven simultaneously, may be driven separately, or may be driven in conjunction (sequential drive).

Further, the read image read by each scanner may be received by an application program and may be combined into one image file by executing the application program. The combining process here may be executed by providing an image processing function in the flood bed driver without being executed by an application program, or may be executed by providing an image processing function in the sheet feed driver. . For example, the read image may be sent from one of the flood bed driver and the sheet feed driver to the other driver, and the combining process may be performed by the driver. Note that image processing means may be provided in each scanner body or any one of the scanner bodies, and the combined processing of the read images may be performed by the image processing means.

Furthermore, the instruction command to each scanner may include, for example, information specifying the reading order. For example, after reading with a flood bed scanner, the sheet feed scanner may read it, or vice versa.

In this case, each read image may be sent to a PC, and the PC may perform a combining process on one image file. Alternatively, the read image read by the flood bed scanner may be sent to the sheet feed scanner and combined with the read image by the sheet feed scanner, and finally the combined image may be transmitted to the PC. Of course, the other way, the read image on a sheet fed scanner sends the flatbed scanner, linked processing the read image in the flatbed scanner, finally, it may be transmitted to combined image to the PC.

  In the above-described example, the operation is basically based on an instruction command (reading instruction) from the PC. However, each scanner has the same function as the PC and can be operated separately from the PC. An operation unit may be provided in the scanner, and the scanner may issue an instruction command similar to that of the PC to another scanner. In this case, a control program such as the application program described above may be executed by the same function (CPU or the like) as the PC provided in the scanner.

In the above-described example, the connection order of each scanner, for example, when a sheet feed scanner is connected to a flood bed scanner connected to a PC, or when a flood bed scanner is connected to a sheet feed scanner connected to a PC. Or other peripheral devices such as scanners other than these scanners may be connected.

  Hereinafter, FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface displayed by the flatbed driver. The user interface 51 is a user interface that is called by the application 48 and displayed on the display device 45 when only the flatbed scanner 10 is connected to the PC 40.

  That is, the user interface 51 is a user interface of the flat bed driver 49b. In the user interface 51, for example, a color mode, a reading size, and a resolution can be set.

  When the CPU 46 detects that the scan button 54 is depressed, it instructs the scanner driver to start scanning. When the depression of the Close button 55 is detected, the CPU 46 closes the user interface.

  The user interface 52 is a user interface that is called by the application 48 and displayed on the display device 45 when only the sheet feed scanner 1 is connected to the PC 40. That is, the user interface 52 is a user interface of the sheet feed driver 49a. A special function button 56 is added to the user interface 52.

  The sheet feed scanner 1 can scan a larger amount of documents per unit time than the flatbed scanner 10. For this reason, there are cases where the user mistakenly mixes a blank document in the document bundle. The sheet feed scanner 1 has a function (blank sheet detection function) for finding such a blank document and not imaging it. In the present embodiment, when the CPU 46 detects that the special function button 56 is pressed, a setting dialog 57 for setting ON / OFF of the blank sheet detection function is displayed on the display device 45.

  FIG. 9 shows a setting dialog 57 for setting ON / OFF of the blank sheet detection function. The initial value of this setting is OFF.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The user interface 53 is a user interface that is displayed when both the flatbed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1 are connected to the PC 40.

  When the CPU 46 successfully loads the sheet feed driver 49a in S705, the CPU 46 displays the user interface 53 on the display device 45 in accordance with the flat bed driver 49b.

  When loading of the sheet feed driver 49a fails, the user interface 51 is displayed. Compared with the user interface 51, the user interface 53 has a setting item of a reading method (image reading apparatus used for reading) added.

  Therefore, the user can switch between the flatbed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1 in the setting item of the reading method. As described above, the CPU 46 and the display device 45 function as a display unit that displays a user interface for inquiring of the operator whether to select the first image reading device or the second image reading device.

  The flatbed driver 49b (CPU 46) stores setting information such as the color mode, resolution, and size set by the user. Therefore, when the user directly selects the sheet feed driver 49a with the application 48, the contents of the color mode, resolution, and size set in the user interface 53 are not applied to the sheet feed driver 49a.

  That is, when the user directly uses the sheet feed driver 49a with the application 48, the setting information set in the user interface 53 is not restored. The setting information is stored in a predetermined location (eg, registry file) in the PC 40. The registry file itself is stored in the HDD 43.

  The blank sheet detection function described above is OFF because the initialization process is executed when the flatbed driver 49b loads the sheet feed driver 49a.

  As resolution selection items, only the resolutions supported by both the flatbed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a are displayed. The flat bed driver 49b (CPU 46) acquires the resolution supported by the sheet feed driver 49a from the sheet feed driver 49a, and extracts only the resolution supported by the flat bed driver 49b.

  In this way, resolutions that can be selected on the user interface 53 are determined. The same extraction process may be executed for the size and color mode. As a result, only the size and color mode that are commonly used by the sheet feed driver 49 a and the flat bed driver 49 b can be extracted and reflected in the user interface 53.

  Thus, the CPU 46 compares the function supported by the first image reading device with the function supported by the second image reading device, and the first image reading device and the second image reading device. It functions as a means for extracting functions common to both. Further, the CPU 46 and the display device 45 function as display means for displaying the extracted function setting items on the user interface.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the automatic reading method. The user interface 53 shown in FIG. 8 has “automatic” as the selection method of the reading method. When it is detected that the user has selected the reading method (automatic) and the scan button 54 is depressed, the CPU 46 starts scanning. Although not shown here, scanning may be started by an operation button (for example, a scan start button) on the sheet feed scanner 1 or the flood bed scanner 10 side.

  In step S <b> 1001, the CPU 46 determines whether a document is placed on the sheet feed scanner 1. For example, the CPU 46 inquires of the sheet feed driver 49a whether or not the document is placed on the sheet feed scanner 1 via the flat bed driver 49b.

  The sheet feed driver 49a (CPU 46) acquires detection information from the document detection sensor 9, and notifies the flatbed driver 49b of the presence or absence of a document. If the document is placed on the document table of the sheet feed scanner 1, the process proceeds to S1002.

In S1002, the CPU 46 transmits a scan start command to the sheet feed driver 49a via the flat bed driver 49b. When the flatbed scanner 10 is selected in the user interface 53, the CPU 46 functions as a first transmission unit that transmits an image reading start command to the flatbed scanner 10 (first image reading apparatus). . Note that the scan start command here is transmitted to the sheet feed driver 49a via the flood bed driver 49b, but then actually passes through the flood bed scanner 10 to the sheet feed scanner 1. The mounted bed scanner 10 determines the received scan start command (for the sheet feed scanner 1) by the CPU 36 or the like, and transfers it to the sheet feed scanner 1 if it is not a command to itself.

  Upon receiving the scan start command, the sheet feed driver 49a transfers the scan start command to the CPU 26 of the sheet feed scanner 1. As described above, when the sheet feed scanner 1 (second image reading device) is selected through the user interface 53, the CPU 46 transmits a scan start command (image reading start command) to the second image reading device. 2 function as a transmission means.

  When receiving the scan start command, the CPU 26 of the sheet feed scanner 1 starts the scan process. The CPU 26 controls the line image sensor 5 and the image processing unit 22 to generate image data, and transfers the image data to the sheet feed driver 49a. The sheet feed driver 49a transfers the image data to the flat bed driver 49b.

  As described above, the sheet feed driver 49a causes the CPU 46 to function as means for transferring the image data transferred from the second image reading apparatus to the first driver. Further, the flatbed driver 49 b transfers the image data to the application 48. Therefore, the flatbed driver 49b causes the CPU 46 to function as means for transferring the image data transferred from the second driver to the application program.

  On the other hand, if no document is placed on the sheet feed scanner 1, the process advances to step S1003. In S1003, the CPU 46 transmits a scan start command to the flatbed driver 49b.

  When the flatbed driver 49b receives the scan start command, the flatbed driver 49b transfers the scan start command to the CPU 36 of the flatbed scanner 10. When the CPU 36 of the flatbed scanner 10 receives a scan start command, the CPU 36 starts a scan process.

  The CPU 36 controls the line image sensor 12 and the image processing unit 32 to generate image data, and transfers the image data to the flat bed driver 49b. The flat bed driver 49 b transfers the image data to the application 48.

  When the blank sheet detection function is set to ON, the flat bed driver 49b or the sheet feed driver 49a blank sheet detection function examines the inside of the document image and determines whether the sheet is blank. If it is blank, the image data is discarded. For example, the CPU 46 or the image processing units 22 and 32 converts the image into a binary image. Next, the number of black pixels in the binary image converted image is counted, and when the number is 20% or less of the entire image, the document image is determined to be blank.

  Next, how the commands are exchanged from the PC 40 to the sheet feed scanner 1 via the flat bed scanner 10 will be described in more detail. In the present embodiment, the flatbed scanner 10 includes a USB hub. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5B, even if the flatbed scanner 10 is interposed between the PC 40 and the sheet feed scanner 1, a command can be transmitted directly from the PC 40 to the sheet feed scanner 1. . That is, for the CPU 46 of the PC 40, there is no difference in the USB level between the connection form of FIG. 5A and the connection form of FIG. 5B. Thus, the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 are independent with respect to the scanner reading process.

  That is, for the sheet feed scanner 1, the flatbed scanner 10 is merely a relay point between the signal to the PC 40 and the signal from the PC 40. The CPU 36 and the image processing unit 32 of the flatbed scanner 10 are not involved in relaying signals of the sheet feed scanner 1. This is in contrast to the fact that the sheet feed driver 49a depends on the flatbed driver 49b.

  Next, command analysis processing executed by the flatbed driver 49b in cooperation with the CPU 46 will be described.

When a command is sent from the application 48 to the sheet feed driver 49a while the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 are simultaneously connected to the PC 40, the command is sent via the flatbed driver 49b. At this time, in the flood bed scanner 10, a command from the PC 40 to the sheet feed scanner 10 passes once as information. At this time, for example, the CPU 36 of the flood bed scanner 10 determines that it is not a command to itself, and thereafter, it can be controlled to transfer to the sheet feed scanner 1. Of course, a command determination function may be provided in the interface 34 portion of the flood bed scanner 10 so that a command to the sheet feed scanner 10 is directly transferred from the interface 34 to the sheet feed scanner 1. Alternatively, command determination means may be separately provided in the flood bed scanner 10 to distribute commands. As described above, the command to the sheet feed scanner 1 passes through the flood bed scanner 10.

  Therefore, the flat bed driver 49b analyzes the command from the application 48 and controls the flat bed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1 according to the analysis result.

  Whether to control the flatbed scanner 10 or the sheet feed scanner 1 depends on the setting of the user interface 53. When “Flatbed” is selected as the reading method in the user interface 53, the flatbed driver 49b may receive a command from the application 48 and control the flatbed scanner 10.

  Furthermore, when “feeder” is selected as the reading method, the flatbed driver 49b may transfer the command from the application 48 to the sheet feed driver 49a as it is.

  The sheet feed driver 49 a receives a command from the application 48 via the flat bed driver 49 b and controls the sheet feed scanner 1.

  When “automatic” is selected as the reading method, one of the scanner devices is selected depending on whether or not a document is set on the sheet feed scanner 1. As a command transmission / reception method, a transmission / reception method corresponding to the selected scanner device is selected.

  Next, processing until a scanned image (image data) passes from the scanner to the application 48 via the scanner driver will be described. When “Flatbed” is selected as the reading method, the flatbed driver 49 b controls the flatbed scanner 10 to acquire an image, and passes the scanned image to the application 48. When “feeder” is selected as the reading method, the flatbed driver 49 b acquires an image from the sheet feed driver 49 a and passes it to the application 48 as it is.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flat bed scanner 10 are simultaneously connected to the PC 40, the user can use two scanners via the flat bed driver 49b. Therefore, once the user selects the flatbed driver 49b in the application 48, there is no need to reselect the driver to switch the scanner to be used.

  That is, the unloading of the flatbed driver 49b and the loading of the sheet feed driver 49a, which are conventionally required, can be omitted. This is because the flatbed driver 49b has already loaded the sheet feed driver 49a into the RAM 42 when the application 48 is activated. Therefore, the processing time associated with unloading and loading, which is necessary when the scanner driver is switched, becomes unnecessary. In the use environment in which the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flatbed scanner 10 are frequently switched, the effect of this embodiment is high.

  Further, since the flatbed driver 49b corresponds to a protocol (for example, Twain) for communicating with the sheet feed driver 49a as an application program, the flatbed driver 49b appears as an application to the sheet feed driver 49a.

  Therefore, even if a user who already owns the flat bed scanner 10 purchases a new sheet feed scanner 1, both the flat bed scanner 10 and the new sheet feed scanner 1 can be used via the flat bed driver 49b. it can.

  Further, it is not necessary for the manufacturer to upgrade the flatbed driver 49b so as to correspond to the new product sheet feed scanner 1. This is because the flatbed driver 49b already has a protocol for communicating with the sheet feed driver 49a.

  In the present embodiment, the sheet feed driver 49a is used via the flat bed driver 49b. However, the flat bed driver 49b may be used via the sheet feed driver 49a. In this case, in the above description, the flat bed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a may be replaced, and the flat bed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1 may be replaced.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a common user interface 1101 for using three or more scanners connected to the PC 40. The number of scanners that can be connected to the PC 40 may be three or more.

  In this case, a combo box for selecting a scanner is added to the user interface 1101. In the combo box, selectable scanner names are listed. Note that the user interface 1101 shown in FIG. 11 is an example of a user interface when one flatbed scanner and four sheet feed scanners are connected.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a scanner selection dialog. Instead of the combo box described above, a scanner selection dialog 1201 shown in FIG. 12 may be employed. When the user selects a desired one from the scanner selection dialog 1201, a scanner driver corresponding to the selected scanner is loaded into the RAM 42. As described above, the scanner driver may be loaded into the RAM 42 only once.

  When “automatic” is selected as the reading method, the CPU 46 checks the document table of all the sheet feed scanners connected to the PC 40 through the scanner driver, and only the sheet feed scanner on which the document is placed. Alternatively, a scan start command may be transmitted.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of the user interface. In the above-described embodiment, the flatbed driver 49b displays only selection items for functions that are commonly supported by the flatbed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1 on the user interface.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the user interface 1301 may display selection items that are not common to both. For example, it is assumed that the flatbed scanner 10 supports a resolution of 1200 dpi and the sheet feed scanner 1 does not support this.

  Further, it is assumed that the sheet feed scanner 1 supports a blank sheet detection function, and the flatbed scanner 10 also supports this. In this case, when “feeder” is selected as the reading method, the CPU 46 may invalidate the resolution 1200 dpi by switching the resolution 1200 dpi to gray-out display.

  In this way, the CPU 46 functions as a means for displaying the setting items for the functions that have not been extracted on the display device 45 so that they cannot be operated on the user interface. On the other hand, when the flat bed is selected, the CPU 46 switches from gray-out display to effective display for a resolution of 1200 dpi.

  Therefore, the CPU 46 changes the operable items in the user interface according to the determination unit that determines which image reading device selected through the user interface is selected and the function of the image reading device selected through the user interface. Functions as a changing means.

  As described above, when the user presses the special function button 56, the CPU 46 displays the setting dialog 57 shown in FIG. The setting dialog 57 is displayed on the display device 45 by the flatbed driver 49b calling the setting dialog of the sheet feed driver 49a.

  Therefore, the CPU 46 displays the special function button 56 so that it can be selected when the user sets the reading method to the feeder. On the other hand, if not, the CPU 46 switches to the gray-out display so as to invalidate the special function button 56.

  In the present embodiment, the sheet feed scanner 1 is connected to the flat bed scanner 10 and the sheet feed driver 49a is controlled by the flat bed driver 49b. However, the flat bed scanner 10 may be connected to the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flat bed driver 49b may be controlled by the sheet feed driver 49a. The combination of the scanners is not limited to the flat bed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1. That is, the invention according to the present embodiment can be applied when a plurality of different types of image reading apparatuses are connected to the PC 40.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the mounting position of the image processing unit. In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14A, the flatbed scanner 10 and the sheet feed scanner 1 each include an image processing unit, and the image processing unit is not shared. However, as shown in FIG. 14B, each of the flat bed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a may include an image processing unit.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the flood bed scanner 10 is provided with a plurality of connecting portions, and the flood bed scanner 10 is connected to the PC 40 and the sheet feed scanner 1 is connected to the flood bed scanner 10. Thus, the sheet feed scanner 1 is not modified for the additional use of the flood bed scanner 10. Further, the user can connect the flood bed scanner 10 to the existing sheet feed scanner 1, and the sheet feed scanner 1 and the flood bed scanner 10 can be used individually or as one image reading unit. it can.

Further, in the present embodiment, the flatbed scanner 10 is controlled by a flatbed driver 49b, because you can control the sheet feeding driver 49a of the sheet feed scanner 1 via the flatbed driver 49b, unload the flatbed driver 49b Time to reload and reload. Therefore, the switching time required for driver switching can be shortened.

For example, when the application program 48 is activated when a plurality of image reading apparatuses having different reading formats are connected to a PC (information processing apparatus), the application program 48 transfers the flood bed driver 49b to the memory of the information processing apparatus. Load it. Further, the flood bed driver 49b loads the sheet feed driver 49a into the memory of the information processing apparatus. Therefore, even if the scanner to be used is switched in the user interface 53 or the like, driver unloading, loading, and initialization processing do not occur. That is, the switching time required for switching the scanner driver can be shortened compared to the conventional case.

Further, by configuring the flood bed driver 49b so that the application program receives the image data read by the sheet feed scanner 1 via the flood bed driver 49b and the sheet feed driver 49a, the sheet feed driver for the sheet feed scanner is configured. The present invention can be applied to 49a without change.

That is, the trouble of updating and upgrading the sheet feed driver 49a can be saved. In addition, if the sheet feed driver 49a is installed, the sheet feed driver 49a is loaded into the memory, and if the sheet feed driver 49a is not installed, the flood bed driver 49b is configured not to load the sheet feed driver 49a. ing. That is, the load processing of the sheet feed driver 49a is not the application program but the flood bed driver 49b.

In addition, since the image reading device is switched on the user interface provided by the flood bed driver 49b, driver unloading, loading, and initialization processing associated with the switching of the image reading device is not necessary. When the sheet feed scanner 1 is selected, the flood bed driver 49b behaves like an application program and passes a command to the sheet feed driver 49a. Therefore, the sheet feed driver 49a does not require any special update or modification for applying the present invention.

In the user interface of the flood bed driver 49b, setting items are provided for functions common to the first image reading device and the second image reading device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the operator from making a setting that cannot be reflected in the reading process no matter which image reading apparatus is selected.

  Note that setting items that are not common may be deleted from the user interface or grayed out so that they cannot be operated. It is possible to suggest to the operator that the setting item displayed in gray out is an item that can be set in another image reading apparatus that has not been selected by the operator.

  In addition, setting items that can be operated on the user interface may be changed according to the function of the image reading apparatus selected through the user interface. In this case, not only items common to a plurality of image reading apparatuses but also all setting items that can be set by the selected image reading apparatus can be displayed. Therefore, the operator can use all the functions of the selected image reading apparatus.

Further, by using a flood bed scanner driver capable of communicating with a sheet through scanner driver as in this embodiment, for example, a reading instruction signal from an information processing apparatus (PC) is transmitted to the sheet through scanner. can do. Conversely, the information processing apparatus can acquire an image read by the sheet-through scanner from the driver of the sheet-through scanner via the driver of the flood bed scanner. As a result, the flood bed scanner can be connected between the information processing apparatus and the existing sheet-through scanner. That is, only by providing a plurality of connecting portions to the flatbed scanner, it is possible to connect the existing sheet-through type scanner flatbed scanner with connecting flatbed scanner to the information processing apparatus.

As a result, the user can use the flood bed type scanner and the sheet-through type scanner as separate scanners based on the operation of the information processing apparatus, or simply install a flood bed type scanner, or as a single scanner unit. It can be used easily. In addition, a user who owns a sheet-through scanner can additionally use a flood-bed scanner without modifying (remodeling) an existing sheet-through scanner separately to provide a connection portion or the like. .
(Embodiment 2)

In the present embodiment, a flood bed scanner is used as the first image reading device, and a sheet feed scanner is used as the second image reading device. When a sheet is set on one of the scanners, the side on which the sheet is detected is detected. Except for switching to the image reading mode of the scanner, the same as in the first embodiment.

More specifically, in the present embodiment, a mounting table (first mounting table) for mounting a sheet on the flood bed scanner is provided, and a sheet detection sensor (first sheet detecting means) is provided on the mounting table, thereby The presence or absence can be detected. On the other hand, in the same manner, a sheet feed scanner is provided with a mounting table (second mounting table) on which a sheet is mounted, and a sheet detection sensor (second sheet detecting means) is provided on the mounting table to detect the presence or absence of a sheet. can do.

By adopting such a structure, it is possible to detect that a sheet is set in either the flood bed scanner or the sheet feed scanner. Information about the presence or absence of a sheet can be transmitted to an application via each driver.

For example, to connect the flatbed scanner to the information processing apparatus (PC), in a state connecting the sheet feed scanner to the flatbed scanner, information as to whether or not the sheet on the sheet feed scanner flood from the sheet feed driver It can be transmitted to the application via the bed driver. Information regarding the presence or absence of a sheet in the flood bed scanner can be directly transmitted from the flood bed driver to the application.

As a result, when a sheet is detected by either the flood bed scanner or the sheet feed scanner, the scanner on the side where the sheet is detected is in a readable state, and therefore it is possible to switch to the image reading mode of the scanner. .

  For example, based on an operation from the information processing apparatus (actually, an operation from a user interface screen associated with application execution), image reading can be started by the scanner on the side where the sheet is detected.

In this embodiment, although not shown, a control panel or operation button (for example, a scan start button) for executing control or setting of a scan operation may be provided on the sheet feed scanner or the flood bed scanner side. it can. In such a case, image reading can be started by the scanner on the side where the sheet is detected by the operation on the scanner side with the sheet set.

Further, the scanned image can be automatically transmitted from the scanner to the information processing apparatus. At this time, for example, the scanned image by the sheet feed scanner is processed from the sheet feed driver via the flood bed driver. Sent to the device.

With the above configuration, it is possible to connect another image reading device to the existing image reading device without modifying the existing image reading device such as a sheet feed scanner, and to make each image reading device independent. Alternatively, it can be used as one image reading unit, and user convenience can be further improved. The above-described configuration described in this embodiment can be applied to the above-described first embodiment.
(Embodiment 3)

  FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus (image reading unit) which is an example of an information reading apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 15, the image reading apparatus of the present embodiment is connected to a sheet feed scanner 1 which is an example of a second image reading apparatus connected to an information processing apparatus 400a such as a PC, and another information processing apparatus 400b. And a flood bed scanner 10 as an example of the first image reading apparatus.

  Specifically, the two information processing apparatuses 400a and 400b are connected to each other via a network.

  In the information processing apparatus 400a, an application 480a and a sheet feed driver (second driver) 490a are introduced as control programs for controlling the sheet feed scanner 1.

  That is, the information processing apparatus 400a sends various instruction information from the application 480a to the sheet feed scanner 1 via the sheet feed driver 490a, and reads the read image read by the sheet feed scanner 1 based on the instruction information. It can be acquired via 490a.

On the other hand, in the information processing apparatus 400b, an application 480b and a flood bed driver 490b are introduced as control programs for controlling the flood bed scanner 10 or the sheet feed scanner 1, respectively.

The flood bed driver 490 here is a multi-function driver (multi-function driver), and various kinds of instruction information from the application 480b, in addition to the output to the flood bed scanner 1, via the network, the information processing apparatus It can be directly output to the application 480a of 400a.

Specifically, the application 480a for the sheet feed scanner 1 receives instruction information of the information processing apparatus 400b (application 480b) from the flood bed driver 490b via the network, and uses the information as a sheet feed driver with the Twain protocol. 490a has a function of transmitting to 490a. That is, the flood bed driver 490b for the flood bed scanner 10 can perform information communication with the application 480a for the sheet feed scanner 1 in addition to the application 480b for the flood bed scanner 1.

Thus, from the information processing apparatus 400b side, both the flood bed scanner 1 and the sheet feed scanner 10 can be controlled based on various instruction information from the application 480b. For this reason, the information processing apparatus 400 b can acquire a read image from the flood bed scanner 1 and also can acquire a read image from the sheet feed scanner 10.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the above-described configuration allows the network to be added to the existing image reading apparatus (sheet feed scanner 1 or the like) such as a sheet feed scanner without modifying the connection unit or the like. Via this, another image reading device ( flood bed scanner 10 or the like) can be connected to the existing image reading device (sheet feed scanner 1 or the like). Accordingly, the user can appropriately use each image reading apparatus independently or as one image reading unit, and can realize and provide a usage mode of the apparatus that is very flexible for the user.

  In the present embodiment, the execution procedure and the like for loading the sheet feed driver 490a and the flatbed driver 490b can be the same as those in the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the case where communication is possible via the network between the flood bed driver 490b and the application 480a for the sheet feed scanner 1 has been described, but the present invention is of course not limited thereto. As shown in FIG. 16, the flood bed driver 490b may be able to communicate with the application 480a for the sheet feed scanner 1 via the application 480b for the flood bed scanner 1. In any case, the present invention relates to a driver of another information processing apparatus connected in a communicable state to an existing information reading apparatus such as the sheet feed scanner 1 or the like. By adding a function for issuing instructions, it is possible to connect another information reader without remodeling the existing information reader (hardware modification such as providing a connection). is there.
(Embodiment 4)

  In the first or second embodiment described above, the image reading apparatus including the sheet feed scanner whose sheet conveyance path is substantially horizontal has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and various sheet feed scanners and the like are of course not limited thereto. It can also be applied to the information reading apparatus. 17 to 20 are schematic configuration diagrams of another image reading apparatus (sheet feed scanner) which is an example of the information reading apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  Specifically, in the image reading apparatus 100 shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, a paper feed tray 102 on which documents are stacked is supported to be openable and closable with respect to the apparatus main body 101A via a hinge part 102a. Yes. The paper feed tray 102 covers the original paper feed port 13 in the closed state (broken line in FIG. 17A), and the stacking surface in the open state (the states in FIGS. 17A and 17B). A document is loaded on 102b.

  The plurality of documents stacked on the sheet feed tray 102 are separated and fed one by one from the lowermost document to the conveyance path by the feed roller 104 and the separation pad 105. The document fed to the conveyance path is conveyed downstream by the conveyance roller pair 106. Further, the original is read on both the front and back images by the reading sensors 108 and 109, and is then discharged out of the apparatus by the conveying roller pair 107. The present invention can also be applied to such an image reading apparatus.

  Also, the image reading apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 18 is a scanner having a vertical conveyance path, and is composed entirely of the scanner body S. Specifically, a feed roller 201 is provided inside the scanner body S. The paper feed roller 201 is connected to the motor 202.

  Further, a transport roller 203 is disposed on the downstream side of the paper feed roller 201. Further, a first image reading sensor 204 that reads one side of the document is disposed on the downstream side of the conveying roller 203.

  A paper discharge roller 207 is provided on the downstream side of the first image reading sensor 204. A second image reading sensor 209 that reads the other side of the document is provided in front of the paper discharge roller 207.

  Note that a registration sensor P <b> 2 that detects the arrival and passage of the document is disposed at a position corresponding to between the conveyance roller 203 and the second image reading unit 209.

  In such a vertical image reading apparatus, the paper feed roller 201, the transport roller 203 and the paper discharge roller 207 are simultaneously driven by the motor 202. A separation roller 213 is disposed on the opposite side of the paper feed roller 201.

  As a result, the documents from the document table 205 are fed by the sheet feed roller 201 while being separated one by one. The present invention can also be applied to such a vertical image reading apparatus.

  An information reading apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 19 is a check scanner that reads paper sheets such as checks and bills, and transports a placement unit 302 for placing paper sheets and vertically placed paper sheets. A transport path 303 and a paper discharge unit 304 for placing the discharged paper sheets.

  Although not shown, the conveyance path 303 is provided with a magnetic sensor that reads a magnetic ink character (MICR [Magnetic Ink Character Recognition]) of a paper sheet. Note that a reading sensor that reads character information such as OCR (Optical Character Recognition) may be provided in the conveyance path, or a reading sensor that reads an image of a paper sheet may be provided.

  In addition, the paper sheets placed on the placement unit 302 are discharged through the transport path 303 without being double-fed by a separation roller (not shown), and the discharged paper sheets are discharged. It is placed on the part 304. The present invention can also be applied to an information reading apparatus that is such a check scanner.

  An image reading apparatus 400 shown in FIG. 20 is a U-turn path type sheet feed scanner, and is provided on one end side of the apparatus main body 401 to feed a document S, a U-turn-shaped conveyance path 403, and the like. And a paper discharge tray 404 on which the discharged original S is placed.

  In addition, a feed roller 405, a paper feed roller 406, a transport roller pair 407, an image reading unit 408 that reads an image of the original S, and a paper discharge roller pair 409 are provided in the transport path 403 from the paper feed tray 402 side. Is provided.

  As a result, the document S is taken into the apparatus main body 401 from the paper feed tray 402, and a single-sided or double-sided image is read by the image reading unit 408 while being conveyed through the conveyance path 403. The present invention can also be applied to the image reading apparatus 400 which is such a U-turn path type sheet feed scanner.

As described above, in the present embodiment, various sheet feed scanners have been exemplified. However, by applying the information reading apparatus such as each scanner to the present invention, the same effects as those of the first or second embodiment described above can be obtained. be able to.
(Other embodiments)

As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated based on Embodiment 1-4, this invention is not limited to each Embodiment 1-4 mentioned above. For example, in the first embodiment and the like described above, the information processing device (PC 40) and the second image reading device (sheet feed scanner 1) can be connected to the first image reading device ( flood bed scanner 10). Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first image reading apparatus may be further provided with a connecting portion to connect one or more peripheral devices including other image reading apparatuses. In addition, when the second image reading device is provided with a connecting portion to the first image reading device and other connecting portions, another image reading device may be connected to the second image reading device. . In that case, it may be in series or in parallel. Such a connection may be applied to the image reading apparatus of the second embodiment described above. In any case, the user can use a plurality of image reading apparatuses independently or can be used as one image reading unit.

  In the first embodiment and the like described above, the image reading apparatus (image reading unit) including the first image reading apparatus and the second image reading apparatus has been described. However, the present invention is of course not limited thereto, and for example, information The processing apparatus and the image reading unit may be used as an image reading system, or may be an information reading system that reads character information, graphic information, identification information, and the like other than images.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Sheet feed scanner 2 Pickup roller 3 Conveyance roller 4 Separation roller 5 Line image sensor 7 Opposite surface 8a First roller pair 8b First roller pair 9 Document detection sensor 10 Flatbed scanner 11 Glass 12 Line image sensor 13 Moving unit 14 Scanner cover DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 15 Opposite surface 21 A / D conversion part 22 Image processing part 23 Memory 24 Interface part 25 Signal cable 26 CPU
27 Bus 28 Motor driver 29 Drive unit 40 PC
48 Application 49 Scanner Driver 51 User Interface 52 User Interface 53 User Interface

Claims (10)

A flatbed scanner connected to the information processing apparatus and reading information on a sheet located in the reading area;
A sheet feed scanner that is connected to the flatbed scanner and reads information of a sheet being conveyed,
The flatbed scanner has a plurality of connection portions to which the information processing apparatus and the sheet feed scanner can be connected,
The sheet feed scanner has a connection portion connectable to the information processing apparatus or the flat bed scanner,
When the sheet feed scanner is connected to the flat bed scanner and the flat bed scanner is connected to the information processing apparatus, a reading instruction from the information processing apparatus to the sheet feed scanner is While being transmitted to the sheet feed scanner via the connecting portion of the flat bed scanner, a reading instruction to the flat bed scanner from the information processing apparatus is transmitted to the flat bed scanner, and the sheet feed scanner The read image read is transmitted to the information processing apparatus via the connecting portion of the flat bed scanner without being subjected to image processing in the flat bed scanner, while the read image read by the flat bed scanner is From the flatbed scanner So as to be transmitted to the serial information processing apparatus, the reading processing of the flatbed scanner from the information processing apparatus, the reading process of the sheet-fed scanner from the information processing device is independently controlled,
The flood bed driver for controlling the flat bed scanner corresponds to a communication protocol for communicating with an application program in the information processing apparatus, and a communication protocol for communicating with the flat bed scanner,
The sheet feed driver for controlling the sheet feed scanner corresponds to a communication protocol for communicating with the application program, and a communication protocol for communicating with the sheet feed scanner,
The information reader system according to claim 1, wherein the flood bed driver corresponds to a communication protocol for communicating with the sheet feed driver as the application program.   2. The flatbed scanner is capable of reading information on the sheet on the first mounting table by scanning a reading sensor along a first mounting table on which the sheet is mounted. Information reading system. The flat bed scanner includes a first placement table on which the sheet is placed, and a first sheet detection unit that is provided on the first placement table and detects the presence or absence of the sheet. A second mounting table for mounting a plurality of sheets; and a second sheet detecting means provided on the second mounting table for detecting the presence or absence of the sheet;
2. The information according to claim 1, wherein when the sheet is detected by any one of the first sheet detecting unit and the second sheet detecting unit, the mode is switched to an image reading mode in a scanner on the side where the sheet is detected. Reading system.   4. The information reading operation for the sheet is executed and an image read on the sheet is transmitted to the information processing apparatus based on an operation on a scanner on the side where the sheet is detected. Information reading system.   The information reading system according to claim 2, wherein operation of the reading sensor is controlled by the information processing apparatus.   6. The information reading system according to claim 1, wherein the sheet feed scanner is capable of reading double-sided information of the sheet by a reading sensor provided in a conveyance path of the sheet.   Based on the operation of either the flatbed scanner or the sheet feed scanner, an information reading operation of the sheet is executed by the operated scanner and the reading information of the sheet is transmitted to the information processing apparatus. The information reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein   8. At least one of the flatbed scanner and the sheet feed scanner can be further connected to one or more peripheral devices including other scanners. The information reading system described. A flatbed scanner,
A flat bed scanner used in the information reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 . A sheet feed scanner,
Sheetfed scanners, characterized in that it is used in the information reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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