JP6282568B2 - Image reading apparatus and image reading method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus and an image reading method.

  For example, there is an image reading apparatus in which a plurality of reading conditions can be set such as color setting or monochrome setting, resolution setting for reading an image, and the like (see Patent Document 1). Such an image reading apparatus performs calibration so that the value of the reading condition of the reading sensor becomes the target reference value when the apparatus power is turned on or when a reading operation mode is requested. .

  Conventionally, in an image reading apparatus, a value unique to the apparatus is set for each reading condition of a reading sensor. A calibration process (calibration) for calibrating the values of the reading conditions is performed so that the setting values for the respective reading conditions are read as initial values and the values of the respective conditions become target reference values using these initial values. Yes.

JP 2009-055189 A

  However, since the conventional image reading apparatus is adjusted so that the value of each condition becomes the target reference value with the setting value unique to the apparatus as an initial value, it takes time to complete the calibration process of the value of the reading condition. Can cause problems. For example, when the reading operation mode is switched by a user operation, it takes time to calibrate the values of the respective reading conditions, which causes the user to wait.

  Therefore, there is a need for an image reading apparatus and an image reading method that can reduce the time required for the calibration process for calibrating the reading condition value of the reading sensor.

In order to solve such a problem, an image reading apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is an image reading apparatus that reads an image on a medium in one or a plurality of reading modes. (1) An image reading unit that reads an image on a medium; (2) A setting value storage unit that stores setting values related to image reading of the image reading unit for each of one or a plurality of reading modes, and (3) 1 or with reference to the setting value storage unit at a predetermined timing For each of a plurality of reading modes, the setting value is used as an initial value to adjust the setting value related to image reading of the image reading unit, and the setting value related to image reading after adjustment is stored in the setting value storage unit (6) The set value storage unit has, as a correction value, a set value related to image reading after adjustment adjusted by the set value adjustment unit. ( 7 ) The set value adjustment unit The location of the image reading device After the predetermined initialization processing, the adjustment of the setting value related to image reading of the image reading unit is executed using the correction value of one of the reading modes of one or a plurality of reading modes, and according to the adjustment result, It is determined whether or not to adjust the setting value of the image reading unit in another image reading mode.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading method for reading an image on a medium in one or a plurality of reading modes, wherein (1) the image reading unit reads an image on the medium, and (2) a set value storage unit. Stores the setting value related to image reading of the image reading unit for each of one or a plurality of reading modes, and (3) the setting value adjustment unit refers to the setting value storage unit at a predetermined timing, For each of a plurality of reading modes, the setting value is used as an initial value to adjust the setting value related to image reading of the image reading unit, and the setting value related to image reading after adjustment is stored in the setting value storage unit (6) The set value storage unit has a set value related to image reading after adjustment adjusted by the set value adjusting unit as a correction value. ( 7 ) The set value adjusting unit is a predetermined value of the image reading apparatus. After the initialization process, one or more Using the correction value of any one of the reading modes, adjustment of the setting value related to the image reading of the image reading unit is executed, and according to the adjustment result, the image reading unit in another image reading mode is adjusted. It is characterized by determining whether or not to adjust the set value.

  The “image reading unit” described in the claims includes a reading sensor in the following first to fourth embodiments. The “set value storage unit” includes the correction data recording unit and the correction data storage unit in the first to fourth embodiments. Further, the “set value adjustment unit” includes the calibration control unit in the first to fourth embodiments.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the time concerning the calibration process which calibrates the value of the reading condition of an image reading part can be shortened.

1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of an image reading apparatus according to a first embodiment. 1 is an external view of an image reading apparatus according to a first embodiment when viewed from above. 1 is an external side view of an image reading apparatus according to a first embodiment when viewed from an operator panel unit side. FIG. 5 is an external plan view of the image reading apparatus with the document reading unit removed, as viewed from above. FIG. 2 is an internal configuration diagram illustrating an internal configuration of an FB unit of the image reading apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating an internal configuration of an FB unit of the image reading apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of the read data memorize | stored in the correction data recording part which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a schematic operation of an image reading process in the image reading apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation of the calibration which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the correction data generation process which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the confirmation process whether the dark reference data which concern on 1st Embodiment exists in a reference | standard range. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a schematic operation of an image reading process in the image reading apparatus according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the calibration execution confirmation process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of the read data memorize | stored in the correction data recording part which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the image reading apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing operation of the calibration which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the correction data generation process which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the image reading apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of an operation in an image reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reading mode change detection process which concerns on 4th Embodiment.

(1) First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of an image reading apparatus and an image reading method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  In the first embodiment, for example, a case where the present invention is applied to an image reading apparatus provided in a multi function peripheral (MFP) is illustrated.

(A-1) Configuration of First Embodiment FIG. 2 is an external view of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment as viewed from above.

  The image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment can perform, for example, a color setting for reading a color image, a monochrome setting for reading a monochrome image, and a resolution setting for reading an image. The image reading apparatus 100 combines a combination of reading conditions such as color setting, monochrome setting, and resolution setting as one operation mode (hereinafter also referred to as “reading mode”). It is assumed that a plurality of operation modes are set. The image reading apparatus 100 can read an image in a reading mode selected by a user operation.

  In FIG. 2, the image reading apparatus 100 includes a document reading unit 1 that reads a document and an operator panel unit 2. The operator panel unit 2 is displayed by the display unit 3 that displays information related to the apparatus status, information input by the user, and the image reading apparatus 100 such as “copy function”, “ScanTo function”, and “FAX transmission function”. It has a switch section 4 for switching function display screens for displaying possible functions and for receiving information such as numbers and characters by a user operation.

  FIG. 3 is an external side view of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment when viewed from the operator panel unit 2 side. In FIG. 3, the image reading apparatus 100 includes an automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as “ADF: Auto Document Feeder”) 5 and a flat bed portion (hereinafter referred to as “FB: Flat Bed”) 6. In FIG. 3, the document reading unit 1 is assumed to have an ADF unit 5 integrally. The document reading unit 1 and the ADF unit 5 are placed on the top of the FB 6, and one of the four sides is fixed and can be opened and closed.

  FIG. 4 is an external plan view of the FB unit 6 of the image reading apparatus 100 with the document reading unit 1 removed, as viewed from above. The FB unit 6 of the image reading apparatus 100 includes an ADF reading area 7 that reads a document fed from the ADF unit 5 and an FB reading area 8 that reads a document placed on the upper surface of the FB unit 6. The surfaces of the ADF reading area 7 and the FB reading area 8 are respectively glass surfaces (document table glass surfaces), and a document image is read by a reading sensor 9 (see FIG. 5) mounted inside. ing.

  FIG. 5 is an internal configuration diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the FB unit 6 of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the internal configuration of the FB unit 6 of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The FB unit 6 includes a reading sensor 9 that reads a document image under the glass surface of the document table in the ADF reading area 7 and the FB reading area 8. Further, inside the FB unit 6 are a home position sensor (hereinafter referred to as HP) 15 for detecting the standby position of the reading sensor 9, and an FB motor for translating the reading sensor 9 in the left-right direction. 11, an FB drive belt 12, drive belt gears 13 and 14, a conveyance shaft 10, and a calibration sheet 16.

  The reading sensor 9 is an image sensor having a plurality of light receiving elements corresponding to a predetermined number of pixels arranged in the main scanning direction. The reading sensor 9 outputs an electric signal having an electric quantity corresponding to the amount of light received by each light receiving element. For example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or the like can be applied to the reading sensor 9.

  The calibration sheet 16 is a test reference medium used for adjusting the variation in the read image quality of the read sensor 9. The calibration sheet 16 includes a white reference sheet 161 and a dark reference sheet 162.

  The white reference sheet 161 is a test reference medium used for obtaining white reference data of an image read by the reading sensor 9. The dark reference sheet 162 is a test reference medium used for acquiring black reference data of an image read by the reading sensor 9. The calibration sheet 16 having the white reference sheet 161 and the dark reference sheet 162 is provided at a position where the reading data of the reading sensor 9 can be read when the reading data of the reading sensor 9 is calibrated. It is provided on the top of the interior.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

  1, an image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment includes a display unit 3, a switch unit 4, an operator panel control unit 18, a main control unit 19, a reading mechanism control unit 20, an ADF motor 21, an FB motor 11, Read sensor 9, H.P. The P sensor 15 includes a calibration control unit 23A, a correction data recording unit 24, an image processing unit 25, an output data storage unit 26, and a data output control unit 27.

  The display unit 3 displays information related to the apparatus state, information input by the user, and the like under the control of the operator panel control unit 18. Further, as described above, the switch unit 4 gives information input by a user operation to the operator panel control unit 18.

  The operator panel control unit 18 controls and monitors the processing of the display unit 3 and the switch unit 4 to perform display control of the display unit 3 and control of the switch unit 4. That is, the operator panel control unit 18 performs display control and operation control according to the apparatus state and execution function of the image reading apparatus 100.

  The main control unit 19 is a processing unit or device that controls processing operations executed in the image reading apparatus 100. The main control unit 19 includes, for example, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and an input / output interface unit. The CPU executes a processing program stored in the ROM, so that the functions of the image reading apparatus 100 are performed. To realize.

  The reading mechanism control unit 20 controls the reading operation of each component (each reading mechanism) that performs image reading processing under the control of the main control unit 19, and uses the correction data of the correction data recording unit 24. The reading sensor 9 is driven to input data.

  The image processing unit 25 performs predetermined image processing based on the read data read by the reading sensor 9 under the control of the main control unit 19.

  The output data storage unit 26 temporarily stores the image data processed by the image processing unit 25.

  The data output control unit 27 uses the data held in the output data storage unit 26 to output document data for one page as output data.

  The ADF motor 21 is a drive unit that drives the document feeding operation of the automatic document feeding (ADF) unit 5 under the control of the reading mechanism control unit 20.

  The FB motor 11 is a drive unit that drives the operation of each component mounted inside the flat bed (FB) unit 6 under the control of the reading mechanism control unit 20.

  The reading sensor 9 performs image reading under the control of the reading mechanism control unit 20 as described above. The reading sensor 9 gives an electric signal of an electric quantity corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving element to the reading mechanism control unit 20.

  H. When the P sensor 15 receives the control of the reading mechanism control unit 20 and detects the reading sensor 15 at the home position, the P sensor 15 outputs a detection signal to the reading mechanism control unit 20.

  The calibration control unit 23A controls the calibration process (calibration process) of the read data when the read data of the read sensor 9 is calibrated.

  The calibration control unit 23A calibrates read data of the read sensor 9 for all reading modes when the system is initialized, for example, when the apparatus power is turned on or when the apparatus is restored from a predetermined sleep state. Perform the action.

  Here, calibration refers to calibrating the value of the read data of the read sensor 9. In particular, the calibration is intended to calibrate white reference data and dark reference data when adjusting the white reference and dark reference read by the reading sensor 9.

  Conventionally, when adjusting variations in image quality caused by changes in the reading sensor 9 over time or environmental changes, a preset value unique to the apparatus is used as an initial value, and the value of the reading data of the reading sensor 9 is the target reference value. It is adjusted so that

  However, if an attempt is made to adjust the value of the read data with the device-specific value as the initial value at all times, it takes time for the calibration, and during that time, the image reading process cannot be performed and the user is kept waiting. .

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the calibration control unit 23A performs initial values of the white reference data and dark reference data of the reading sensor 9 (that is, setting values unique to the apparatus), the white reference data acquired in the previous calibration, The correction value of the dark reference data is held. Then, the calibration control unit 23A uses the correction values of the white reference data and dark reference data of the reading sensor 9 as initial values as necessary. Thereby, it is possible to shorten the time required to adjust the value of the read data to the target reference value.

  The correction data recording unit 24 holds initial values and correction values related to the white reference data and dark reference data of the reading sensor 9 by the calibration control unit 23A.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of read data stored in the correction data recording unit 24 according to the first embodiment.

  Note that the “setting value relating to image reading” described in the claims is a setting value necessary for adjusting white reference data and dark reference data, for example, “analog data voltage” illustrated in FIG. Value ”,“ dark reference data ”, and“ read sensor exposure time ”.

7, the read data recorded in the correction data SL recording unit 24 according to the first embodiment, the "read mode data type", "analog data voltage value", "dark reference data", "read sensor exposure time As an item.

  The “reading mode data type” is a type of reading mode set in advance in the image reading apparatus 100. For example, in the image reading apparatus 100 according to this embodiment, the operation mode for reading a color image at a resolution of 300 dpi (dot per inch) is “resolution 300 dpi / color”. Similarly, a case where four types of operation modes of “resolution 300 dpi / monochrome”, “resolution 600 dpi / color”, and “resolution 600 dpi / monochrome” are set is illustrated. In this embodiment, the case of four types of reading modes is illustrated, but the number of types of reading modes is not particularly limited, and may be one type or two or more types.

  “Analog data voltage value” adjusts the level of analog input data from the reading sensor 9. As shown in FIG. 7, the “analog data voltage value” is obtained by “initial value” which is a voltage value set in advance in the apparatus and calibration processing (that is, calibration processing of read data of the read sensor 9). The “correction value” that is the voltage value obtained is distinguished and held.

“Dark reference data” is pixel data in the main scanning direction of the reading sensor 9 corrected by the calibration control unit 23A when the reading sensor 9 is turned off. For example, in the case of “reading mode type: resolution 300 dpi / color”, the dark reference data is recorded in “dark reference data” as black data for one line obtained by the reading sensor 9 reading the dark reference sheet 162 at a resolution of 300 dpi. The Also in other reading modes, black data for one line read by the reading sensor 9 is recorded.

  “Reading data sensor exposure time” is the lighting cycle time of the reading sensor 9 corrected by the calibration control unit 23A. As shown in FIG. 7, the “read data sensor exposure time” is an “initial value” that is an exposure time set in advance in the apparatus and a calibration process (that is, a read data calibration process of the read sensor 9). The "correction value" that is the exposure time when obtained by the above is distinguished and held.

(A-2) Operation of the First Embodiment Next, the operation of the calibration process for calibrating the read data of the reading sensor 9 in the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. explain.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of the image reading process in the image reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

  First, when the image reading apparatus 100 is restored from the apparatus power-on or the sleep mode, system initialization processing such as OS activation and RAM initialization is performed (S100).

  After the system initialization, in order to return the reading sensor 9 to the home position (standby position), the reading sensor 9 moves when the FB motor 11 is driven. P sensor 15 detects. As a result, the H.P. The P positioning operation is performed (S101).

  The reading sensor 9 positioned at the home position stops under the calibration sheet 16. That is, at the time of calibration, the reading sensor 9 is moved under the calibration sheet 16, and the value of the reading data of the reading sensor 9 is adjusted using the calibration sheet 16.

  When a calibration request signal is given from the main control unit 19 to the calibration control unit 23A, a calibration process is executed (S102). Details of the calibration processing will be described later.

  Thereafter, in the image reading apparatus 100, it is confirmed whether or not there is a request for turning off the apparatus power or the sleep (S103). If there is a request for turning off the apparatus power or the sleep, the system stops. On the other hand, if the apparatus power is off or there is no sleep transition request, the process proceeds to S104.

  In S104, it is confirmed whether or not an image reading request is given to the main control unit 19 by a user operation. If there is no image reading request, the process proceeds to S103, and the process is repeated. On the other hand, if there is an image reading request, the process proceeds to S105.

  In S105, when an image reading request is given to the main control unit 19, the reading mechanism control unit 20 sets the “analog data voltage value” and the “reading data sensor exposure time” determined by the calibration in the reading sensor 9. Then, the ADF motor 21 and the FB motor 11 are driven. Then, the reading sensor 9 reads a document set on the ADF 5 or a document set on the FB 6. Data read by the reading sensor 9 is given to the image processing unit 25. The image processing unit 25 processes the output data based on the input image data and stores the output data in the output data storage unit 26, while the data output control unit 27 outputs the image data of one page of the document to the external device. Output to. In the document reading process in S105, when there are a plurality of documents, the document reading process is performed for each page, and when all the document reading processes are completed, the process returns to S103 and is repeated. The

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the calibration processing operation according to the first embodiment.

  As described above, after a system initialization, when a calibration request is given to the calibration control unit 23A, the calibration control unit 23A performs a calibration process for read data of the read sensor 9.

  First, the calibration control unit 23A to which a calibration request is made refers to the read data (see FIG. 7) stored in the correction data recording unit 24, and reads the head information of “read mode type” (S201). That is, the calibration control unit 23A initializes the reading mode type information.

  Using the read reading mode type information, the calibration control unit 23A executes correction data generation processing for the read data of the reading sensor 9 for the read mode (S202). The detailed operation of this correction data generation process will be described later.

  When the correction data generation processing for the reading mode type is completed, the calibration control unit 23A refers to the correction data recording unit 24 and confirms whether correction data generation processing has been performed for all reading modes (S203). .

  If correction data generation processing has not been completed for all reading modes, the process proceeds to S202, and the calibration control unit 23A performs data correction processing for the next reading mode. On the other hand, if the correction data generation processing for all reading modes has been completed, the reading mode information for all reading modes is updated (S204), and the processing ends.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the correction data generation process according to the first embodiment.

  The calibration control unit 23A determines an initial value of the analog data voltage value in the reading mode (S301).

  Here, the determination method of the initial value of the analog data voltage value is that the calibration control unit 23A stores “initial value” or “correction value” stored in “analog data voltage value” of the reading mode of the correction data recording unit 24. Any one of the values. That is, if no value is stored in the “correction value” of the analog data voltage value, the “initial value” (that is, a preset value) of the analog data voltage value is determined as the initial value of S301. When a value is stored in the “correction value” of the analog data voltage value, the value stored in the “correction value” of the analog data voltage value is determined as the initial value in S301. As a result, when a value is stored in the “correction value”, calibration can be performed using the correction value as an initial value, so that the time required for calibration can be shortened.

  Next, the image is read and dark reference data is collected with the reading sensor 9 turned off by the analog data voltage value as the initial value determined in S301 (S302).

  The darkest pixel data value of dark reference data pixels collected by the reading sensor 9 is searched, and the calibration control unit 23A checks whether the dark reference data value is within the expected reference range (S303).

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a confirmation process as to whether or not the dark reference data according to the first embodiment is within the reference range. In FIG. 11, the vertical axis represents the reference range, and the horizontal axis represents the pixel (light receiving element) of the reading sensor 9. As shown in FIG. 11, the calibration control unit 23A checks whether or not the value of each pixel data of the reading sensor 9 is within the reference range of the dark reference data.

  In the first embodiment, a case where the calibration control unit 23A determines whether or not the darkest pixel data is within the range from the maximum value to the minimum value of the reference range is exemplified. However, the method is not limited to this method, and the calibration control unit 23A checks, for example, whether all pixel data values are within the range from the maximum value to the minimum value of the reference range. Also good. Further, for example, the calibration control unit 23A obtains an average value of all the pixel data values, and confirms whether the pixel data average value is within a range from the maximum value to the minimum value of the reference range. Also good. In any case, various methods can be widely applied if it can be confirmed whether or not the dark reference data of the reading sensor 9 is within a predetermined reference range.

  In S303, if the dark reference data is not within the reference range, the process proceeds to S304. If the dark reference data is within the reference range, the process proceeds to S305.

  In S304, the calibration control unit 23A adjusts the value of the analog data voltage value so that the dark reference data falls within the reference range (S304), and the reading sensor 9 is turned off by the adjusted analog data voltage value. The image is read and dark reference data is collected (S302). The processes of S302 to S304 are repeatedly executed until the dark reference data falls within the reference range.

  Here, various methods can be applied to the method of adjusting the analog data voltage value. In other words, when the dark reference data exceeds the maximum value, the analog data voltage value is decreased, so that the dark reference data is adjusted to a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined voltage value from the current analog data voltage value, or the dark reference data is When the value is below the minimum value, a method of adjusting to a value obtained by adding a predetermined voltage value to the current analog data voltage value is applied to increase the analog data voltage value. The value of the voltage value to be added or subtracted may be changed according to the dark reference data value, the maximum value (or minimum value), and the difference value, for example. Thereby, the value of the dark reference data can be adjusted gradually so as to approach the target value.

  In S305, when the dark reference data falls within the reference range, the calibration control unit 23A stores (updates) the analog data voltage value at that time in the “correction value” of the analog data voltage value in FIG. The dark reference data at that time is stored (updated) in “dark reference data” in FIG. Thereby, data relating to the dark reference of the reading sensor 9 can be stored in the correction data recording unit 24.

  Next, the calibration control unit 23A determines an initial value of an exposure time related to reading by the reading sensor 9 in the reading mode (S306).

  Here, the method for determining the initial value of the exposure time can be the same as the method for determining the initial value of the analog data voltage value described above. That is, if the calibration control unit 23A stores no value in the “correction value” of the “exposure time” in the reading mode of the correction data recording unit 24, the exposure time “initial value” (that is, preset) Is determined as the initial value of S306. If a value is stored in the “correction value” of the exposure time, the value of the “correction value” of the exposure time is determined as the initial value in S306.

  In S307, the calibration control unit 23A turns on the reading sensor 9 with the read exposure time, and reads the reflected light image reflected from the calibration sheet 16 as white reference data (S306).

  The calibration control unit 23A obtains a difference value between the white reference data collected from the reading sensor 9 and the dark reference data collected in S301 for each pixel. The calibration control unit 23A searches for the maximum value and the minimum value among the difference values between the white reference data and the dark reference data, and determines whether the maximum value and the minimum value are within the expected reference range. Confirm (S307).

  In S307, when the maximum value and the minimum value are not within the reference range, the process proceeds to S309, and when the maximum value and the minimum value are within the reference range, the process proceeds to S310.

  In S309, the calibration control unit 23A adjusts the exposure time related to reading by the reading sensor 9 so that the maximum value and the minimum value fall within the reference range (S309), and samples white reference data again (S306). ).

  Here, various methods can be applied as a method for adjusting the exposure time. For example, when the difference value between white reference data and dark reference data is large, in order to shorten the exposure time, it is adjusted to a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined time from the current exposure time, or, for example, When the difference value from the reference data is small, a method of adjusting to a value obtained by adding a predetermined time to the current exposure time is applied in order to lengthen the exposure time. Note that the addition or subtraction time may be changed according to the difference value between the white reference data and the dark reference data, for example.

  If the maximum value and the minimum value fall within the expected reference range, the calibration control unit 23A stores the exposure time at that time in the “correction value” of the read data sensor exposure time in FIG. 7 (S310). ).

(A-3) Effect of First Embodiment As described above, according to the first embodiment, the reading data value of the reading sensor is calibrated (calibrated) for all reading modes when the apparatus is activated. be able to. For this reason, for example, even when the setting of the reading mode is changed by the user, the calibration after the reading request is not executed, so that the time from the reading request to the completion of reading can be shortened.

(B) Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the image reading apparatus and the image reading method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(B-1) Configuration of Second Embodiment In the first embodiment described above, when the image reading apparatus 100 is powered on or restored from the sleep mode (that is, after system initialization), the reading sensor 9 A case where the read data is calibrated is illustrated.

  In contrast, the second embodiment exemplifies a case where the reading data of the reading sensor 9 is calibrated after the reading mode is requested when the setting of the reading mode is changed by the user.

  The same or corresponding configuration as that of the first embodiment can be applied to the external configuration and the configuration of the control system of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment. Therefore, also in 2nd Embodiment, it demonstrates using FIGS. 1-7 based on 1st Embodiment.

  In the second embodiment, the processing of the calibration control unit is different from that of the first embodiment. A calibration control unit according to the second embodiment will be described as a calibration control unit 23B.

  The calibration control unit 23B calibrates (calibrates) the read data of the read sensor 9 as in the first embodiment.

  When the reading mode is set or changed by a user operation, the calibration control unit 23B individually calibrates the reading data of the reading sensor 9 for the designated reading mode.

(B-2) Operation of Second Embodiment FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of image reading processing in the image reading apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of the calibration execution confirmation process according to the second embodiment.

  First, when the image reading apparatus 100 is restored from the apparatus power-on or the sleep mode, system initialization processing such as OS activation and RAM initialization is performed (S400).

  After the system initialization, in order to return the reading sensor 9 to the home position (standby position), the reading sensor 9 moves when the FB motor 11 is driven. P sensor 15 detects. As a result, the H.P. The P positioning operation is performed (S401).

  Thereafter, the image reading apparatus 100 checks whether or not there is a request for powering off the apparatus or a sleep transition (S402). If there is a request for powering off the apparatus or a sleep transition, the system stops. On the other hand, if the apparatus power is off or there is no sleep transition request, the process proceeds to S403.

  In S403, the calibration control unit 23B monitors whether or not there is a read request (S403). If there is no read request, the process proceeds to S402. On the other hand, if there is a read request, the process proceeds to S404.

  At this time, the reading request is given to the calibration control unit 23B, and the type information of the reading mode selected by the user is also given to the calibration control unit 23B.

  In S404, when a reading request is given to the calibration control unit 23B, the calibration control unit 23B performs a confirmation process as to whether or not to execute the calibration process of the read data of the reading sensor 9 regarding the selected reading mode. This is performed (S404).

  The process in S404 will be described with reference to FIG. The calibration control unit 23B refers to the read data stored in the correction data recording unit 24 based on the read mode type information selected by the user, and corrects the read data for the selected read mode. Is already executed (S501).

  If correction of the read data has already been performed, the calibration control unit 23B moves the process to S405, and performs a document image reading process in the selected reading mode (S405). On the other hand, if the correction of the read data has not been executed yet, the calibration control unit 23B moves the process to S502 and executes the correction data generation process for the selected read mode (S502).

  As illustrated in FIG. 14, the correction data recording unit 24 according to the second embodiment performs calibration control when correcting the read data so as to store the read data to which the item “correction execution flag” is added. The unit 23B may set a flag in the “correction execution flag” of the corresponding reading mode. Thereby, in S501, the calibration control unit 23B can easily recognize whether or not the correction processing has already been performed for the selected reading mode by referring to the “correction execution flag”. In the “correction execution flag” of FIG. 14, “◯” indicates that correction has been executed, and “×” indicates that correction has not been executed.

  For example, if the selected reading mode is “resolution 300 dpi / color”, the calibration control unit 23B refers to the “correction execution flag” of the read data in FIG. 14 and confirms that correction has been executed. . Therefore, the calibration control unit 23B ends the calibration execution confirmation process, and the original image reading process is performed.

  On the other hand, for example, if the selected reading mode is “resolution 300 dpi / monochrome”, the calibration control unit 23B does not execute correction referring to the “correction execution flag” of the read data in FIG. Confirm. Therefore, the calibration control unit 23B performs correction data generation processing on the read data for the read mode “resolution 300 dpi / monochrome”. For this correction data generation processing, processing similar to the processing described in FIG. 10 according to the first embodiment can be applied. When the correction data generation process is completed, a document image reading process is performed. When the calibration control unit 23B executes the correction data generation process, the calibration control unit 23B sets a flag on the “correction execution flag” in FIG. 14 in order to record that the read data has been corrected.

  As described above, the calibration control unit 23B checks whether the read data is individually corrected for the designated read mode after the read request, and when calibration is not executed, Perform calibration individually.

(B-3) Effect of Second Embodiment As described above, according to the second embodiment, when a calibrated reading mode is designated, calibration is not executed, so that the user requests reading. The time from reading to completion of reading can be shortened.

(C) Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment of an image reading apparatus and an image reading method according to a third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(C-1) Configuration of Third Embodiment As the external configuration of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment, the same or corresponding configuration as that of the first embodiment can be applied. Therefore, also in 3rd Embodiment, it demonstrates using FIGS. 2-7 based on 1st Embodiment.

  FIG. 15 is a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment.

  15, the image reading apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment includes a display unit 3, a switch unit 4, an operator panel control unit 18, a main control unit 19, a reading mechanism control unit 20, an ADF motor 21, an FB motor 11, Read sensor 9, H.P. P sensor 15, calibration control unit 23 </ b> C, correction data recording unit 24, image processing unit 25, output data storage unit 26, data output control unit 27, and correction data storage unit 30.

  The calibration control unit 23C calibrates (calibrates) the read data of the reading sensor 9 as in the first embodiment.

  The calibration control unit 23C calibrates the reading data of the reading sensor 9 at the time of system initialization, but the reading data value of the reading sensor 9 falls within the reference range for a certain reading mode among a plurality of reading modes. If it is, the correction of the read data is considered to have been executed for the other reading modes, and the correction data generation process for the other reading modes is not executed.

  That is, when the system initialization is performed in the image reading apparatus 100 in a state where the value of the reading data of the reading sensor 9 is not calibrated and only the value unique to the apparatus is set (first state). The calibration control unit 23C calibrates read data for all reading modes.

  After the first initialization, when the system initialization process such as Sleep recovery is performed, the calibration control unit 23C executes the calibration process of the reading mode of each reading mode. When data correction is performed for the reading mode, the original image reading process is allowed without performing calibration for the other reading modes. As a result, the time required for calibration in all reading modes can be shortened.

  The correction data storage unit 30 stores correction data of read data calibrated by the calibration control unit 23C. The correction data storage unit 30 is preferably a non-volatile storage device, and stores the correction data every time calibration is performed by the calibration control unit 23C. The configuration of the correction data stored in the correction data storage unit 30 may be the same as or corresponding to the read data illustrated in FIG.

(C-2) Operation of Third Embodiment The image reading apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment performs the image reading process of FIG. 8 according to the first embodiment.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 8, when the image reading apparatus 100 is restored from the apparatus power-on or the sleep mode, system initialization processing such as OS activation and RAM initialization is performed (S100).

  After the system initialization, the reading sensor 9 is returned to the home position (standby position). The P positioning operation is performed (S101).

  When a calibration request signal is given from the main control unit 19 to the calibration control unit 23C, a calibration process is executed (S102). Since the processing of S103 to S105 in FIG. 8 has been described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a calibration processing operation according to the third embodiment.

  After the system initialization, when a calibration request is given to the calibration control unit 23C, the calibration control unit 23C reads the correction data from the correction data storage unit 30 and stores the correction data in the correction data recording unit 24 ( S601). That is, the correction data obtained by the previous calibration is stored in the correction data recording unit 24, and the read data is updated.

  For example, by storing the initial value of the read data in the correction data storage unit 30 before the image reading apparatus 100 is shipped, calibration using the initial value of the read data is possible even in the initial state. It becomes.

  The calibration control unit 23C reads information on the first reading mode from the read data stored in the correction data recording unit 24 (S602), and the calibration control unit 23 corrects using the read reading mode information. Data generation processing is executed (S603).

  Here, the calibration control unit 23C exemplifies the case of reading the first reading mode information (that is, the reading mode information determined by default), but the reading mode currently set (that is, the reading mode information is determined by default). , Immediately preceding reading mode) information, or any reading mode information determined at random.

  Although detailed description of the correction data generation processing will be described later, the calibration control unit 23C confirms whether or not the read data value is within the reference range and updates the read data for the read mode. Confirm whether or not.

  In S604, it is confirmed whether or not the calibration control unit 23C has updated the read data in S603 (S604).

  If the calibration control unit 23C does not update the read data in the read mode, the process is terminated. That is, for other reading modes, the process is terminated without performing the correction process of the read data.

  On the other hand, when the calibration control unit 23 </ b> C updates the read data in the read mode, the process proceeds to S <b> 605 and the read data correction process is performed for other read modes.

  In S605, the calibration control unit 23C reads information on the next reading mode from the correction data recording unit 24 (S605), and executes correction data generation processing using the information on the next reading mode (S606). The process illustrated in FIG. 10 according to the first embodiment can be applied to the correction data generation process in S606.

  When the correction data generation process of S606 is executed, the calibration control unit 23C checks whether or not the correction data process has been executed for all reading modes (S607). When not all the reading modes are executed, the process proceeds to S605 and the process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when all the reading modes are executed, the process proceeds to S608, and the calibration control unit 23C transfers the information stored in the correction data recording unit 24 to the correction data storage unit 30 that is a nonvolatile storage device. Save (S608). This completes the process.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing correction data generation processing according to the third embodiment. The correction data generation process of FIG. 17 is the process in S603 of FIG.

  The calibration control unit 23C refers to the read data (see FIG. 7) stored in the correction data recording unit 24, reads the analog data voltage value in the read mode (S701), and reads the read data by using the voltage value. With the LED turned off, the image is read and dark reference data is collected (S702). The calibration control unit 23C searches for the darkest pixel data among the pixels of the collected dark reference data, and confirms whether or not the value is within the expected reference range (S703). As a method for confirming whether the dark reference data is within the reference range, the same method as in the first embodiment can be applied.

  If the dark reference data is not within the reference range in S703, the process proceeds to S704, and the calibration control unit 23C adjusts and updates the analog data voltage value (S704). The calibration control unit 23C collects dark reference data with the updated analog data voltage value and the reading sensor 9 turned off (S705), and determines whether the dark reference data is within the reference range (S706). The analog data voltage value is adjusted until the dark reference data falls within the reference range.

  If the dark reference data falls within the reference range, the process proceeds to S707, and the dark reference data within the reference range is updated in the correction data recording unit 24 (S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S712, and correction processing relating to white reference data is performed.

  If the dark reference data is not within the reference range in S703, the process proceeds to S708. The calibration control unit 23C refers to the read data (see FIG. 7) stored in the correction data recording unit 24, turns on the read sensor 9 with the exposure time in the corresponding read mode, and collects white reference data. (S708).

  Similarly to the first embodiment, the calibration control unit 23C obtains the difference between the white reference data and the dark reference data for each pixel, searches for the maximum value and the minimum value among these difference values, It is confirmed whether the minimum value is within the reference range (S710). If the maximum value and the minimum value are not within the reference range, the process proceeds to S712. If the maximum value and the minimum value are within the reference range, the process proceeds to S711.

  In S711, when the maximum value and the minimum value are within the reference range, the dark reference data and the white reference data are within the reference range, and the calibration control unit 23C determines that there is no need to correct the read data. , Notify that there is no correction data update.

  On the other hand, if the maximum value and the minimum value are not within the reference range in S709, the process proceeds to S712 to adjust the exposure time.

  In S712, the calibration control unit 23C refers to the read data (see FIG. 7) stored in the correction data recording unit 24, reads the exposure time in the read mode (S712), and reads the exposure sensor based on the exposure time. 9 is turned on and white reference data is collected (S713). Similarly to the first embodiment, the calibration control unit 23C obtains the difference between the white reference data and the dark reference data for each pixel, searches for the maximum value and the minimum value among these difference values, and determines the maximum value and the maximum value. It is confirmed whether or not the minimum value is within the reference range (S714).

  When the maximum value and the minimum value are not within the reference range, the calibration control unit 23C adjusts and updates the exposure time until the maximum value and the minimum value are within the reference range (S715), and the process is performed at S716. Migrate to

  In S716, the read data of either or both of the dark reference data and the white reference data is corrected. In this case, the calibration control unit 23C notifies that there is no correction data update.

(C-3) Effect of Third Embodiment As described above, according to the third embodiment, when one reading mode is calibrated and it is determined that updating is unnecessary, another reading mode is used. Since the calibration is not executed, the rise time of the apparatus can be shortened.

(D) Fourth Embodiment Next, an image reading apparatus and an image reading method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(D-1) Configuration of Fourth Embodiment As the external configuration of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment, the same or corresponding configuration as that of the first embodiment can be applied. Therefore, also in 3rd Embodiment, it demonstrates using FIGS. 2-7 based on 1st Embodiment.

  FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of the image reading apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment.

  18, the image reading apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment includes a display unit 3, a switch unit 4, an operator panel control unit 18, a main control unit 19, a reading mechanism control unit 20, an ADF motor 21, an FB motor 11, Read sensor 9, H.P. A P sensor 15, a calibration control unit 23 </ b> D, a correction data recording unit 24, an image processing unit 25, an output data storage unit 26, a data output control unit 27, and a reading mode change detection unit 40 are included.

Reading mode change detecting unit 40 obtains the change presence information of the function screen of the image reading apparatus 100 from operating tapa channel control unit 18, in accordance with the change presence information of the function screen, it detects a change in the reading mode is there. That is, when the function of the image reading apparatus 100 (for example, a copy function, a ScanTo function, a FAX transmission function, or the like) is changed by a user operation, the reading mode change detection unit 40 changes the reading mode according to the function. Is detected.

  The calibration control unit 23D performs the same process as the calibration control unit 23B of the second embodiment.

(D-2) Operation of the Fourth Embodiment FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an outline of operation in the image reading apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a reading mode change detection process according to the fourth embodiment.

  First, an outline of an image reading operation in the image reading apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. When the image reading apparatus 100 recovers from the apparatus power-on or the sleep mode, system initialization processing such as OS activation and RAM initialization is performed (S800).

  After the system initialization, in order to return the reading sensor 9 to the home position (standby position), the reading sensor 9 moves when the FB motor 11 is driven. P sensor 15 detects. As a result, the H.P. The P positioning operation is performed (S801).

  At this time, the reading mode change detection unit 40 determines an initial calibration condition (S802). As a calibration condition determination method, for example, calibration conditions are determined based on reading conditions of a function screen such as an apparatus default copy function, a ScanTo function, and a FAX transmission function.

  When the initial calibration conditions are determined, the calibration control unit 23D calibrates the read data of the read sensor 9 in accordance with the initial calibration conditions (S803). After the calibration is executed, the image reading apparatus 100 shifts to a standby state.

  Thereafter, the image reading apparatus 100 checks whether there is a power-off or sleep shift request (S804). If there is a power-off or sleep shift request, the system is stopped. If there is no power off or sleep transition request, it is confirmed whether there is a read request (S805).

  If there is a reading request in S805, an original reading operation is executed (S806). When there is no read request, the read mode change detection unit 40 executes a read mode change detection process to determine whether or not the read mode is not updated (S807). Details of the reading mode change detection processing in S807 will be described later.

  When the reading mode change detection unit 40 detects a change in the reading mode, the calibration control unit 23D executes the calibration of the reading data of the reading sensor 9 (S809), and the process proceeds to S804. Transition the device to the standby state.

  On the other hand, when the reading mode change detection unit 40 does not change the reading mode, the calibration control unit 23D shifts the process to S804 without executing calibration, and shifts the apparatus to a standby state.

  Next, a reading mode change detection process according to the fourth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

First, the reading mode change detection unit 40 checks a function screen (for example, a screen of a copy function, a ScanTo function, a FAX transmission function, etc.) currently displayed on the display unit 3 through the operator panel control unit 18. Then, depending on whether the display screen confirmed last time is different from the display screen confirmed this time, the reading mode change detection unit 40 checks whether the function screen has been changed (S501). That is, it is confirmed through the function screen whether the setting information such as the color or monochrome or the resolution has been changed.

  If it is determined in S501 that the function screen has been changed, the reading mode change detection unit 40 determines the reading mode based on the color / monochrome setting and resolution setting of the displayed function screen (S502). At this time, for each function such as a copy function, a ScanTo function, and a FAX transmission function, setting information such as monochrome or monochrome, resolution, etc. is set in advance, and the function setting information is stored. The reading mode change detection unit 40 can determine the reading mode according to the color / monochrome setting and the resolution setting while referring to the function setting information. Then, the reading mode change detection unit 40 notifies the main control unit 19 through the operator panel control unit 18 (S503).

  When it is determined in S501 that the function screen has not been changed, the reading mode change detection unit 40 checks whether the color or monochrome setting has been changed based on the function screen displayed on the display unit 3. (S504). When the color or monochrome is changed, the reading mode change detection unit 40 performs the reading mode changing process described above (S502). On the other hand, if it is determined that the color and monochrome settings are not changed, the process proceeds to S505.

  In S505, the reading mode change detection unit 40 checks whether the reading resolution setting of the function screen displayed on the display unit 3 has been changed (S505). When it is determined that the reading resolution setting has been changed, the reading mode change detection unit 40 performs the above-described reading mode changing process (S502).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the reading resolution setting is not changed (that is, when it is determined that both the color or monochrome setting and the resolution setting are not changed), the reading mode change detection unit 40 is an operator panel control unit. 18, the main control unit 19 is notified of no change in the reading mode (S 506).

(D-3) Effect of the Fourth Embodiment As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, since the reading mode update can be detected before the read request and the calibration can be executed in advance, the user can make a read request. The time from reading to completion of reading can be shortened.

(E) Other Embodiments Although various modified embodiments have been mentioned in the first to fourth embodiments described above, the present invention can also be applied to the following modified embodiments.

  (E-1) The calibration control unit of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention may execute a process in which the processes described in the first and second embodiments are combined. That is, the calibration control unit calibrates all the reading modes after the initial stage of the system, and then calibrates the reading data for each reading mode when the reading mode is changed by the user. good. As a result, calibration is executed for all reading modes after the apparatus power of the image reading apparatus is turned on, and when the apparatus is continuously turned on thereafter, the reading data is calibrated for each reading mode when there is a reading request. Therefore, the waiting time of the user can be shortened.

  (E-2) In the above-described first to fourth embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 7 or FIG. 14, the case where the correction value is stored every time calibration is performed by the calibration control unit is illustrated. did. That is, the case where the value (latest value) obtained by the calibration executed this time is stored as a correction value in the correction data recording unit is illustrated. However, the calibration control unit may hold a plurality of past correction values before the current calibration, and store a value obtained by averaging the plurality of correction values in the correction data recording unit.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Image reading apparatus, 9 ... Reading sensor, 16 ... Calibration sheet, 23A-23D ... Calibration control part, 24 ... Correction data recording part, 25 ... Data correction control part, 30 ... Correction data storage part, 40 ... Reading Mode changing unit, 3... Display unit, 4... Switch unit, 18... Operator panel control unit, 19... Main control unit, 20.

Claims (7)

In an image reading apparatus that reads an image of a medium in one or a plurality of reading modes,
An image reading unit for reading an image of the medium;
A setting value storage unit that stores setting values related to image reading of the image reading unit for each of the one or more reading modes;
The set value storage unit is referred to at a predetermined timing, and the set value related to image reading of the image reading unit is adjusted using the set value as an initial value for each of the one or more reading modes. A set value adjustment unit that stores a set value relating to the image reading after the adjustment in the set value storage unit,
The set value storage unit has a set value relating to the image read after the adjustment adjusted by the set value adjusting unit as a correction value,
The set value adjustment unit relates to image reading of the image reading unit using the correction value of any one of the one or a plurality of reading modes after a predetermined initialization process of the image reading device. An image reading apparatus that performs adjustment of a setting value and determines whether or not to adjust the setting value of the image reading unit in another image reading mode in accordance with the adjustment result. Characterized in that the pre-Symbol setting value adjustment unit is, when the correction value is present in the set value storage unit, using the correction value as an initial value, to adjust the setting of the image reading of the image reading unit The image reading apparatus according to claim 1.   The set value adjustment unit adjusts a set value related to image reading of the image reading unit for all of the one or a plurality of reading modes after a predetermined initialization process of the image reading apparatus. Item 3. The image reading apparatus according to Item 1 or 2.   The set value adjustment unit, when an adjustment result using the set value of any one of the reading modes as an initial value satisfies a predetermined condition, also sets the set value of the image reading unit for other image reading modes. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein no adjustment is performed.   5. The setting value adjustment unit adjusts a setting value related to image reading of the image reading unit for a specified reading mode for each input reading request. The image reading apparatus described. An image reading mode change detection unit for detecting a change in the image reading mode in the image reading apparatus;
The setting value adjustment unit adjusts the setting value of the image reading mode after the change when the change of the image reading mode is detected by the image reading mode change detection unit. The image reading apparatus according to any one of 5. In an image reading method for reading an image on a medium in one or a plurality of reading modes,
An image reading unit reads an image of the medium;
A set value storage unit stores a set value relating to image reading of the image reading unit for each of the one or more reading modes;
The set value adjustment unit refers to the set value storage unit at a predetermined timing, and uses the set value as an initial value for each of the one or a plurality of reading modes to perform image reading of the image reading unit. A set value is adjusted, and the set value related to the image reading after the adjustment is stored in the set value storage unit,
The set value storage unit has a set value relating to the image read after the adjustment adjusted by the set value adjusting unit as a correction value,
The set value adjustment unit relates to image reading of the image reading unit using the correction value of any one of the one or a plurality of reading modes after a predetermined initialization process of the image reading device. An image reading method comprising: adjusting a set value and determining whether or not to execute the adjustment of the set value of the image reading unit in another image reading mode according to the adjustment result.

Images