JP2023154611A - Image processing system, image reading device, estimating method, and control program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an image reading device, an estimating method, and a control program allowing accurate estimation of the residual number of media placed on a placing table or imaging finishing time.SOLUTION: An image reading device has: a placing table; rollers sequentially conveying multiple media placed on the placing table; an imaging unit imaging the media conveyed by the rollers; a detection unit detecting the entire thickness of the media placed on the placing table; an estimation unit estimating a residual number of the media placed on the placing table or imaging finishing time; and an outputting control unit outputting the residual number or imaging finishing time estimated by the estimation unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing system, an image reading device, an estimation method, and a control program.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image processing system has been used that uses a plurality of image reading devices, such as scanners, that sequentially transport and image a plurality of media placed on a mounting table to manage images of the media. In such an image processing system, in order for the user to efficiently use the image reading device, it is necessary to notify the user of the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table of each image reading device or the imaging completion time. is required.

A document reading and recording device that detects the weight of documents placed on a document tray and determines the number of documents based on the detected value has been disclosed (see Patent Document 1). This document reading and recording device determines the number of documents placed on the document tray based on the number of fed documents and the difference in weight of documents placed on the document tray before and after document feeding. The copying completion time is calculated and displayed from the number of originals.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-348137

Image reading devices are required to be able to accurately estimate the number of remaining media placed on a mounting table or the time taken to complete imaging.

An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing system, an image reading device, an estimation method, and a control program that can accurately estimate the remaining number of media placed on a mounting table or the imaging completion time. .

An image processing system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of image reading devices and an information processing device, and each of the plurality of image reading devices includes a mounting table and a plurality of image processing devices placed on the mounting table. A roller that sequentially conveys the medium, an imaging unit that images the medium conveyed by the roller, a detection unit that detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table at specific intervals, and a detection unit that An estimation unit that estimates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected at each specific interval; and an estimation unit that estimates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time, and a transmitting unit that transmits the information to the information processing device; the information processing device includes a receiving unit that receives the remaining number or imaging completion time from each of the plurality of image reading devices; and a display control unit that displays the completion time.

An image reading device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a mounting table, a roller that sequentially conveys a plurality of media placed on the mounting table, an imaging unit that images the medium conveyed by the roller, and There is a detection unit that detects the entire thickness of the medium placed on the mounting table, and a detection unit that detects the remaining thickness of the medium placed on the mounting table based on the thickness detected at specific intervals by the detection unit. The image forming apparatus includes an estimating section that estimates the remaining number or imaging completion time, and an output control section that outputs the remaining number or imaging completion time estimated by the estimating section.

In an estimation method according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of media placed on a mounting table are sequentially transported by a roller, images of the media transported by the roller are captured by an imaging unit, and the media are loaded at specific intervals. Detecting the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table, estimating the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected at each specific interval, The estimated remaining number or imaging completion time is output.

A control program according to one aspect of the present invention provides an image reading apparatus that includes a mounting table, a roller that sequentially conveys a plurality of media placed on the mounting table, and an imaging unit that images the medium conveyed by the roller. The control program detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table at specific intervals, and detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table based on the thickness detected at each specific interval. The image reading device is caused to estimate the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time of the media, and output the estimated remaining number or imaging completion time.

According to the present invention, the image processing system, the image reading device, the estimation method, and the control program can accurately estimate the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time.

1 is a configuration diagram of an example of an image processing system 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an image reading device 100. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an image reading device 100. FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a conveyance path inside the image reading device 100. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining a drive mechanism of the mounting table 103, and the like. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining a pick roller 115 and the like. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image reading device 100. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first storage device 150 and a first processing circuit 160. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing device 200. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second storage device 210 and a second processing circuit 220. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a medium reading process. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a medium reading process. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen 1300. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of operation of display processing. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen 1500. FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first processing circuit 360 according to another embodiment. 7 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second processing circuit 420 according to another embodiment. FIG.

Hereinafter, an image processing system, an image reading device, an estimation method, and a control program according to one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, it should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but extends to the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an example of an image processing system 1 according to an embodiment.

The image processing system 1 includes a plurality of image reading devices 100 and an information processing device 200. The plurality of image reading devices 100 and information processing devices 200 are communicatively connected to each other via a network N. The image reading device 100 is an image scanner or the like that conveys a medium, which is a document, and captures an image. The medium is paper, thin paper, cardboard, card, or the like. The image reading device 100 may be a facsimile, a copying machine, a multifunction peripheral (MFP), or the like. The information processing device 200 is a personal computer, a notebook personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or the like. The information processing device 200 may be a server provided in a cloud network. The network N is the Internet, an intranet, or the like.

2 and 3 are perspective views showing the image reading device 100.

In FIGS. 2 and 3, arrow A1 indicates a substantially vertical direction (height direction), arrow A2 indicates a medium conveyance direction, arrow A3 indicates a medium discharge direction, and arrow A4 indicates a medium conveyance direction A2 or a medium discharge direction A3. The width direction is perpendicular to the width direction. In the following, upstream refers to upstream in the medium conveyance direction A2 or medium discharge direction A3, and downstream refers to downstream in the medium conveyance direction A2 or medium discharge direction A3.

The image reading device 100 includes a first housing 101, a second housing 102, a mounting table 103, a side guide 104, a discharge table 105, a first operating device 106, a first display device 107, and the like.

The second housing 102 is arranged inside the first housing 101 and is rotatable to the first housing 101 by a hinge so that it can be opened and closed when a medium becomes clogged or when cleaning the inside of the image reading device 100. engaged.

The mounting table 103 is a so-called hopper, has a mounting surface 103a, and is engaged with the first housing 101 so that a medium to be transported can be placed thereon. The mounting table 103 is provided on the medium supply side side surface of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 so as to be movable in the height direction A1, that is, to be movable up and down. As shown in FIG. 2, the mounting table 103 is arranged at the lower end position so that the medium can be easily placed thereon when the medium is not being transported. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 2, the position of the mounting table 103 where no medium is being transported and where the user places the medium may be referred to as an initial position. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, when conveying the medium, the mounting table 103 rises to a position where the uppermost medium comes into contact with a pick roller, which will be described later. Note that in FIG. 3, the display of the medium is omitted to improve visibility. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 3, the position of the mounting table 103 where the medium placed on the uppermost side contacts the pick roller and is capable of transporting the medium may be referred to as a transport position.

The side guide 104 is provided on the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103 so as to be movable in the width direction A4. The side guide 104 is positioned according to the width of the medium placed on the mounting table 103, and regulates the width direction of the medium. In the example shown in FIG. 2, two side guides 104 are arranged at intervals in the width direction A4. The number of side guides 104 may be one.

The ejection table 105 is formed on the second casing 102. The ejection table 105 places the medium ejected from the ejection ports of the first casing 101 and the second casing 102 .

The first operating device 106 includes an input device such as a button and an interface circuit that obtains a signal from the input device, receives an input operation by a user, and outputs an operation signal according to the input operation by the user. The first display device 107 is an example of an output section. The first display device 107 has a display including a liquid crystal, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence), etc., and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays the image data on the display. Note that the first display device 107 may be a liquid crystal display with a touch panel function. In that case, the first operating device 106 includes an interface circuit that obtains input signals from the touch panel.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the transport path inside the image reading device 100.

The conveyance path inside the image reading device 100 includes a first medium sensor 111, a displacement sensor 112, a mounting table sensor 113, a distance sensor 114, a pick roller 115, a pick roller sensor 116, a feeding roller 117, a separation roller 118, and an ultrasonic wave sensor. It includes a sensor 119, first to sixth conveyance rollers 120a to f, first to sixth driven rollers 121a to f, a second medium sensor 122, an imaging device 123, and the like.

Note that the number of each of the pick roller 115, feeding roller 117, separation roller 118, first to sixth conveyance rollers 120a to f, and/or first to sixth driven rollers 121a to f is not limited to one, There may be more than one. In that case, the plurality of feeding rollers 117, separation rollers 118, first to sixth conveyance rollers 120a to f, and/or first to sixth driven rollers 121a to f are arranged side by side at intervals in the width direction A4, respectively. be done.

The surface of the first casing 101 facing the second casing 102 forms the first guide 101a of the medium transport path, and the surface of the second casing 102 facing the first casing 101 forms the first guide 101a of the medium transport path. A second guide 102a is formed.

The first medium sensor 111 is disposed on the mounting table 103, that is, on the upstream side of the feeding roller 117 and the separation roller 118, and detects the state of the medium placed on the mounting table 103. The first medium sensor 111 determines whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 using a contact detection sensor that flows a predetermined current when the medium is in contact with the medium or when the medium is not in contact with the medium. do. The first medium sensor 111 generates and outputs a first medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 or not. Note that the first medium sensor 111 is not limited to a contact detection sensor, and any other sensor capable of detecting the presence or absence of a medium, such as a photodetection sensor, may be used as the first medium sensor 111.

Displacement sensor 112 is an example of a sensor. The displacement sensor 112 is an infrared proximity distance sensor, and measures the distance to an object located at an opposing position based on the time difference between infrared ray irradiation and reflection. The displacement sensor 112 is fixedly disposed on the side surface of the first housing 101 on the medium supply side and facing the back surface of the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. That is, the displacement sensor 112 is placed below the mounting table 103 placed at the initial position. Displacement sensor 112 includes a light emitter and a light receiver. The light emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like, and emits light (infrared light) upward, that is, toward the back surface of the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light emitted by the light emitter and reflected on the back surface of the mounting surface 103a. The displacement sensor 112 generates and outputs a displacement signal that is an electrical signal according to the light received by the light receiver.

The displacement signal indicates the time from when the light emitter emits light until the light receiver receives the light and the amount of light received by the light receiver. Therefore, the displacement signal changes depending on the distance from the displacement sensor 112 to the mounting table 103. That is, the displacement sensor 112 detects the distance to the mounting table 103 and detects the amount of movement of the mounting table 103. Note that a reflective member such as a mirror may be provided on the back surface of the mounting surface 103a at a position facing the light emitter and the light receiver. Moreover, either the light emitter or the light receiver may be arranged on the back surface of the mounting surface 103a, and the light emitter and the light receiver may be provided so as to face each other.

The ranging sensor 114 is an example of a sensor. The distance sensor 114 is an infrared proximity sensor, and measures the distance to an object located at an opposing position based on the time difference between infrared ray irradiation and reflection. The distance measurement sensor 114 is fixedly arranged on the second housing 102 so as to face the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. That is, the distance measurement sensor 114 is placed above the mounting table 103 placed at the transport position. In particular, the distance measurement sensor 114 is arranged so as to face an area on the mounting table 103 where no medium is placed, that is, an area outside of the outermost side guide 104 in the width direction A4. The distance sensor 114 includes a light emitter and a light receiver. The light emitter is an LED or the like, and emits light (infrared light) downward, that is, toward the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light emitted by the light emitter and reflected by the mounting surface 103a. The distance measurement sensor 114 generates and outputs a distance measurement signal that is an electrical signal according to the light received by the light receiver.

The ranging signal indicates the time from when the light emitter emits light until the light receiver receives the light and the amount of light received by the light receiver. Therefore, the distance measurement signal changes depending on the distance from the distance measurement sensor 114 to the mounting surface 103a. That is, the distance sensor 114 detects the distance to the mounting table 103, particularly the distance to the mounting surface 103a, and detects the amount of movement of the mounting table 103. Note that a reflective member such as a mirror may be provided on the mounting surface 103a at a position facing the light emitter and the light receiver. Further, either the light emitter or the light receiver may be placed on the mounting surface 103a, and the light emitter and the light receiver may be provided so as to face each other.

Pick roller 115 is an example of a roller. The pick roller 115 is provided in the second casing 102 and comes into contact with the uppermost medium placed on the mounting table 103 raised to approximately the same height as the medium conveyance path. Transport the media downstream. Thereby, the pick roller 115 sequentially transports the plurality of media placed on the mounting table 103.

The feeding roller 117 is provided in the second housing 102 on the downstream side of the pick roller 115, and feeds the medium placed on the mounting table 103 and conveyed by the pick roller 115 further downstream. . Separation roller 118 is provided within first casing 101 to face feed roller 117 . The separation roller 118 is a so-called brake roller or retard roller, and is provided so as to be rotatable or stopable in a direction opposite to the medium feeding direction. The feeding roller 117 and the separating roller 118 perform a media separating operation, separate the media, and feed the media one by one. The feeding roller 117 is arranged above the separation roller 118, and the image reading device 100 feeds the medium using a so-called take-up method.

The ultrasonic sensor 119 is arranged downstream of the feeding roller 117 and upstream of the first conveyance roller 120a. Ultrasonic sensor 119 includes an ultrasonic transmitter 119a and an ultrasonic receiver 119b. The ultrasonic transmitter 119a and the ultrasonic receiver 119b are arranged near the medium transport path, facing each other across the transport path. The ultrasonic transmitter 119a emits ultrasonic waves. On the other hand, the ultrasonic receiver 119b receives the ultrasonic waves transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter 119a and transmitted through the medium, and generates and outputs an ultrasonic signal that is an electric signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves. That is, the ultrasonic signal indicates the intensity of ultrasonic waves passing through the medium, and the ultrasonic sensor 119 detects the intensity of the ultrasonic waves passing through the medium. When a plurality of media are conveyed in an overlapping manner, the ultrasonic waves that pass through the media are attenuated by the air layer between the media that are conveyed in an overlapping manner. Moreover, the ultrasonic waves transmitted through a medium are attenuated as the thickness of the medium increases. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can detect double feeding of the medium and detect the thickness of the medium based on the ultrasonic signal.

The first to sixth conveyance rollers 120a to f and the first to sixth driven rollers 121a to f are provided facing each other on the downstream side of the feed roller 117 and separation roller 118, and The medium fed by the separation roller 118 is conveyed toward the downstream side. The sixth conveyance roller 120f and the sixth driven roller 121f discharge the medium onto the discharge table 105.

The second medium sensor 122 detects the medium conveyed to its placement position. The second medium sensor 122 is arranged downstream of the second conveyance roller 120b, that is, downstream of the feeding roller 117, and upstream of the imaging device 123 in the medium conveyance direction A2. The second medium sensor 122 includes a light emitter and a light receiver provided on one side with respect to the medium transport path, and a light guide tube provided at a position facing the light emitter and the light receiver across the medium transport path. including. The light emitter is an LED or the like, and emits light toward the medium transport path. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light emitted by the light emitter and guided by the light guide tube. The second medium sensor 122 generates a second medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether the medium is present at the position of the second medium sensor 122 or not, based on the intensity of the light received by the light receiver. and output it.

Note that the second medium sensor 122 may be placed upstream of the second conveyance roller 120b or the first conveyance roller 120a. Moreover, a reflective member such as a mirror may be used instead of the light guide tube. Further, the light emitter and the light receiver may be provided facing each other with the medium transport path in between. Further, the second medium sensor 122 may detect the presence of the medium using a contact detection sensor or the like that flows a predetermined current when the medium is in contact or not in contact with the medium.

The imaging device 123 is an example of an imaging unit. The imaging device 123 is arranged downstream of the first and second transport rollers 120a and 120b in the medium transport direction A2. The imaging device 123 images the medium conveyed by the pick roller 115, the feeding roller 117, the separation roller 118, the first and second conveying rollers 120a and 120b, and the first and second driven rollers 121a and 121b. The imaging device 123 includes a first imaging device 123a and a second imaging device 123b that are arranged to face each other across a medium transport path.

The first imaging device 123a has a line sensor using a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) of the same magnification optical system type and having CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) imaging elements linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. Further, the first imaging device 123a includes a lens that forms an image on the imaging device, and an A/D converter that amplifies the electrical signal output from the imaging device and performs analog/digital (A/D) conversion. The first imaging device 123a images the surface of the medium being transported, generates an input image, and outputs the input image.

Similarly, the second imaging device 123b has a CIS line sensor of a same-magnification optical system type having CMOS imaging elements linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. Further, the second imaging device 123b includes a lens that forms an image on the imaging device, and an A/D converter that amplifies the electrical signal output from the imaging device and performs analog/digital (A/D) conversion. The second imaging device 123b images the back side of the medium being transported, generates an input image, and outputs the image.

Note that the image reading device 100 may have only one of the first imaging device 123a and the second imaging device 123b and read only one side of the medium. Further, instead of a line sensor using a CIS of a 1x optical system type including a CMOS image sensor, a line sensor using a CIS of a 1x optical system type including an image sensor using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) may be used. Further, a reduction optical system type line sensor including a CMOS or CCD image sensor may be used.

The medium placed on the mounting table 103 is moved between the first guide 101a and the second guide 102a in the medium transport direction A2 by rotating the pick roller 115 and the feeding roller 117 in the medium feeding directions A5 and A6, respectively. transported towards. The image reading device 100 has two feeding modes: a separation mode in which the medium is fed while separating it, and a non-separation mode in which the medium is fed without separating it. The feeding mode is set by the user using the information processing device 200 that is communicatively connected to the first operating device 106 or the image reading device 100. When the feeding mode is set to the separation mode, the separation roller 118 rotates or stops in the direction of arrow A7, that is, in the opposite direction to the medium feeding direction. This restricts the feeding of media other than the separated media (preventing double feeding). On the other hand, when the feeding mode is set to non-separation mode, the separation roller 118 rotates in the opposite direction of arrow A7, that is, in the medium feeding direction.

The medium is guided by the first guide 101a and the second guide 102a, and is sent to the imaging position of the imaging device 123 by rotating the first and second transport rollers 120a and 120b in the directions of arrows A8 and A9, The image is captured by the imaging device 123. Further, the medium is discharged onto the discharge table 105 by the third to sixth transport rollers 120c to f rotating in the directions of arrows A10 to A13, respectively.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the drive mechanism of the mounting table 103 and the mounting table sensor 113.

As shown in FIG. 5, the image reading device 100 further includes a first motor 131 and a transmission mechanism 132.

The first motor 131 generates a first driving force for raising the mounting table 103 and a second driving force for lowering the mounting table 103 in response to a control signal from a processing circuit to be described later.

The transmission mechanism 132 transmits the driving force from the first motor 131 to the mounting table 103. The transmission mechanism 132 includes a belt 133, first to fifth gears 134a to 134e, a rack 135, and the like.

A belt 133 is stretched between the rotating shaft of the first motor 131 and the pulley portion of the first gear 134a. The gear portion of the first gear 134a meshes with the larger gear portion of the second gear 134b. The smaller gear portion of the second gear 134b meshes with the larger gear portion of the third gear 134c. The smaller gear portion of the third gear 134c meshes with the fourth gear 134d. The fourth gear 134d meshes with the larger gear portion of the fifth gear 134e. The smaller gear portion of the fifth gear 134e functions as a pinion and is meshed with the rack 135. The rack 135 is fixed to the downstream end of the mounting table 103 so that the geared surface faces the smaller gear portion of the fifth gear 134e and extends along the height direction A1. Ru. The rack 135 is provided so as to be movable up and down along a guide portion such as a rail (not shown) formed along the height direction A1.

The transmission mechanisms 132 are provided at both ends in the width direction A4. Thereby, the image reading apparatus 100 can stably move the mounting table 103. Note that the transmission mechanism 132 may be provided only at one end in the width direction A4. Thereby, the image reading device 100 can reduce the number of parts of the transmission mechanism 132, thereby reducing device cost and device weight.

When the first motor 131 generates the first driving force, the belt 133 rotates in the direction of arrow A21. Accordingly, the first to fifth gears 134a to 134e rotate in the directions of arrows A21 to A25, respectively, the rack 135 rises, and the mounting table 103 rises. On the other hand, when the first motor 131 generates the second driving force, the belt 133 rotates in the opposite direction of arrow A21. Accordingly, the first to fifth gears 134a to 134e rotate in directions opposite to the arrows A21 to A25, respectively, the rack 135 descends, and the mounting table 103 descends. In this way, the transmission mechanism 132 transmits the driving force from the first motor 131 to the mounting table 103.

Further, a shielding member 136 is arranged at the downstream end of the mounting table 103 so as to protrude toward the downstream side. The shielding member 136 is arranged at a position that faces the mounting table sensor 113 when the mounting table 103 is placed at the initial position, and does not face the mounting table sensor 113 when the mounting table 103 is not placed at the initial position. be done. The mounting table sensor 113 includes a light emitter and a light receiver arranged to face each other with a shielding member 136 in between. The light emitter is an LED or the like, and emits light toward the light receiver. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light emitted by the light emitter. The mounting table sensor 113 generates a first detection signal whose signal value changes depending on whether the shielding member 136 is present or absent at the position of the mounting table sensor 113, based on the intensity of the light received by the light receiver. and output it. The mounting table sensor 113 is provided so that the signal value of the first detection signal changes between a state where the mounting table 103 is placed at the initial position and a state where the mounting table 103 is not placed at the initial position.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the pick roller 115 and the pick roller sensor 116.

As shown in FIG. 6, the image reading device 100 further includes an arm 137. The arm 137 is provided in the second housing 102 so as to extend along the medium conveyance direction A2 and to be rotatable (swingable) about the downstream end 137a. A pick roller 115 is attached to the upstream end 137b of the arm 137. A biasing member 137c is attached above the arm 137. The biasing member 137c is a spring member such as a torsion coil spring, a rubber member, or the like, and applies a downward biasing force to the arm 137. Note that the biasing member 137c may be omitted and only the downward force applied to the arm 137 due to its own weight may be applied.

By urging the arm 137 downward, the pick roller 115 can appropriately convey the medium while pressing the medium placed on the mounting table 103 downward. Further, since the arm 137 is provided so as to be movable in the height direction A1, the pick roller 115 is placed at the lowest position when not in contact with the medium, and is not in contact with the medium placed on the mounting table 103. If they are in contact, they will be pushed up by the medium. As a result, even if the position (height) of the medium placed on the uppermost side of the media placed on the mounting table 103 changes to some extent, the pick roller 115 will be able to move the medium placed on the uppermost side. Appropriate contact can be made to transport the medium. Therefore, the image reading apparatus 100 does not need to move the mounting table 103 every time one medium is fed, and the processing time required for the medium reading process can be shortened.

The pick roller sensor 116 includes a light emitter and a light receiver arranged opposite to each other with an arm 137 in between. The light emitter is an LED or the like, and emits light toward the light receiver. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light emitted by the light emitter. The pick roller sensor 116 generates a second detection signal whose signal value changes depending on whether the arm 137 is present at the position of the pick roller sensor 116 or not, based on the intensity of the light received by the light receiver. Output. The pick roller sensor 116 detects a second detection signal when the pick roller 115 is placed at the lowest position and when the pick roller 115 is pushed up by the medium placed on the mounting table 103. The value is set to change.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image reading device 100.

In addition to the above-described configuration, the image reading device 100 further includes a second motor 141, a first communication device 142, a first storage device 150, a first processing circuit 160, and the like.

The second motor 141 includes one or more motors. The second motor 141 rotates the pick roller 115, the feeding roller 117, the separation roller 118, and the first to sixth transport rollers 120a to 120f to transport the medium in response to a control signal from the first processing circuit 160. Note that the first to sixth driven rollers 121a to 121f may be provided to rotate according to the driving force of the second motor 141 instead of being rotated by the first to sixth conveyance rollers 120a to 120f.

The first communication device 142 is an example of an output unit. The first communication device 142 has a wired communication interface circuit that follows a communication protocol such as TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol). The first communication device 142 is capable of communicating with the information processing device 200, and is communicatively connected to the information processing device 200 to transmit and receive various images and information. Note that the first communication device 142 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals and a wireless communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wireless communication line according to a predetermined wireless communication protocol, and communicates with the information processing device 200. May be connected. The predetermined wireless communication protocol is, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). Further, the first communication device 142 may have an interface circuit similar to a serial bus such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus), and may be electrically connected to the information processing device 200.

The first storage device 150 includes a memory device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory), a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as a flexible disk or an optical disk. Further, the first storage device 150 stores computer programs, databases, tables, etc. used for various processes of the image reading device 100. The computer program may be installed in the first storage device 150 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program or the like. The portable recording medium is, for example, a CD-ROM (compact disc read only memory), a DVD-ROM (digital versatile disc read only memory), or the like.

The first storage device 150 also stores, as data, the position of the mounting surface 103a in the height direction A1 when the mounting table 103 is placed at the initial position. The first storage device 150 also stores the lower end position of the pick roller 115 (the signal value of the second detection signal indicates the state where the pick roller 115 is pushed up by the medium placed on the mounting table 103). The lowest position among the lower end positions) is stored. The first storage device 150 also stores a profile set by the user. The profile includes settings related to the resolution of images generated by the image reading device 100, and the like. The profile is set by the user using the first operating device 106 or the information processing device 200.

The first processing circuit 160 operates based on a program stored in the first storage device 150 in advance. The processing circuit is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). As the first processing circuit 160, a DSP (digital signal processor), an LSI (large scale integration), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field-programmable gate array), or the like may be used.

The first processing circuit 160 includes a first operating device 106, a first display device 107, a first medium sensor 111, a displacement sensor 112, a mounting table sensor 113, a distance sensor 114, a pick roller sensor 116, an ultrasonic sensor 119, a first It is connected to the two-medium sensor 122, the imaging device 123, the first motor 131, the second motor 141, the first communication device 142, the first storage device 150, etc., and controls each of these parts. The first processing circuit 160 performs driving control of the first motor 131 and the second motor 141, imaging control of the imaging device 123, etc. based on the signals received from the first medium sensor 111 and the second medium sensor 122. The first processing circuit 160 acquires an input image from the imaging device 123 and transmits it to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 142. Furthermore, the first processing circuit 160 is configured to detect the position of the object placed on the mounting table 103 based on the signals received from the displacement sensor 112, the mounting table sensor 113, the distance measurement sensor 114, the pick roller sensor 116, and/or the ultrasonic sensor 119. Estimate the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time. The first processing circuit 160 displays the estimation result on the first display device 107 or transmits it to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 142.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the first storage device 150 and the first processing circuit 160.

As shown in FIG. 8, the first storage device 150 stores a control program 151, a detection program 152, an estimation program 153, an output control program 154, and the like. Each of these programs is a functional module implemented by software running on a processor. The first processing circuit 160 reads each program stored in the first storage device 150 and operates according to each read program. Thereby, the first processing circuit 160 functions as a control section 161, a detection section 162, an estimation section 163, and an output control section 164.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the information processing device 200.

The information processing device 200 includes a second operating device 201, a second display device 202, a second communication device 203, a second storage device 210, a second processing circuit 220, and the like.

The second operating device 201 has input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse, and an interface circuit that acquires signals from the input devices, accepts operations by the user, and sends signals according to the user's input to the second processing circuit 220. Output. The second display device 202 has a display including a liquid crystal, an organic EL, etc., and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays the image data on the display according to instructions from the second processing circuit 220. Note that the second display device 202 may be a liquid crystal display with a touch panel function. In that case, the second operating device 201 has an interface circuit that obtains input signals from the touch panel.

The second communication device 203 has a wired communication interface circuit that follows a communication protocol such as TCP/IP. The second communication device 203 is capable of communicating with the image reading device 100, and is communicatively connected to the image reading device 100 to transmit and receive various images and information. Note that the second communication device 203 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals and a wireless communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wireless communication line according to a predetermined wireless communication protocol, and communicates with the image reading device 100. May be connected. The predetermined wireless communication protocol is, for example, wireless LAN. Further, the second communication device 203 may have an interface circuit similar to a serial bus such as a USB, and may be electrically connected to the image reading device 100.

The second storage device 210 includes a memory device such as a RAM or ROM, a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as an optical disk. Further, the second storage device 210 stores computer programs, databases, tables, etc. used for various processes of the information processing device 200. The computer program may be installed in the second storage device 210 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program or the like. The portable recording medium is, for example, a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM.

The second processing circuit 220 operates based on a program stored in the second storage device 210 in advance. The processing circuit is, for example, a CPU. As the second processing circuit 220, a DSP, LSI, ASIC, FPGA, etc. may be used.

The second processing circuit 220 is connected to the second operating device 201, the second display device 202, the second communication device 203, the second storage device 210, etc., and controls each of these units. The second processing circuit 220 receives the estimated result of the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time from the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203, and receives the estimated result of the imaging completion time from the second display device 203. to be displayed.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the second storage device 210 and the second processing circuit 220.

As shown in FIG. 10, the second storage device 210 stores a reception program 211, a display control program 212, and the like. Each of these programs is a functional module implemented by software running on a processor. The second processing circuit 220 reads each program stored in the second storage device 210 and operates according to each read program. Thereby, the second processing circuit 220 functions as a receiving section 221 and a display control section 222.

11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the medium reading process of the image reading device 100.

Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the medium reading process of the image reading apparatus 100 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Note that the flow of operations described below is mainly executed by the first processing circuit 160 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 100 based on a program stored in the first storage device 150 in advance. The flowcharts shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 are executed when the image reading apparatus 100 is powered on.

First, the control unit 161 controls the first motor 131 to generate the second driving force, and lowers the mounting table 103 to place it at the initial position (step S101). The control unit 161 periodically acquires a first detection signal from the mounting table sensor 113, and when the signal value of the first detection signal indicates that the mounting table 103 is arranged at the initial position, the control unit 161 is determined to be placed at the initial position. In this way, the control unit 161 places the mounting table 103 at the initial position for the user to place the medium before starting to transport the medium.

The detection unit 162 receives a displacement signal from the displacement sensor 112 in a state where the mounting table 103 is placed at the initial position, and based on the received displacement signal, the detection unit 162 moves the position from the displacement sensor 112 to the mounting table 103 (the back surface of the mounting surface 103a). ) to determine the reference distance. The image reading device 100 stores in the first storage device 150 in advance a first table that associates the signal value of the displacement signal with the distance from the displacement sensor 112 to the light reflection position. The detection unit 162 refers to the first table and specifies the distance corresponding to the signal value of the received displacement signal as the first reference distance. Note that the detection unit 162 receives the displacement signal from the displacement sensor 112 a plurality of times, and calculates the first displacement signal based on the statistical value (average value, median value, minimum value, maximum value, etc.) of the signal values of the plurality of received displacement signals. One reference distance may be specified. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the position of the mounting table 103 with high precision even when the mounting table 103 is vibrating.

Next, when the user inputs an instruction to read the medium using the first operating device 106 or the information processing device 200, the control unit 161 transmits an operation signal instructing to read the medium to the first operating device 106 or the information processing device 200. 1 waits until it is received from the communication device 142 (step S102).

Next, the control unit 161 acquires the first medium signal from the first medium sensor 111, and determines whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 based on the acquired medium signal (step S103). . If no medium is placed on the mounting table 103, the control unit 161 returns the process to step S102 and waits until a new operation signal is received.

On the other hand, when a medium is placed on the mounting table 103, the control unit 161 controls the first motor 131 to generate the first driving force, raises the mounting table 103, and transports the mounting table 103. position (step S104).

The control unit 161 determines whether the medium placed on the mounting table 103 is in contact with the pick roller 115 while controlling the first motor 131 to generate the first driving force. The control unit 161 periodically acquires the second detection signal from the pick roller sensor 116. When the signal value of the second detection signal indicates that the pick roller 115 is pushed up by the medium placed on the mounting table 103, the control unit 161 causes the medium placed on the mounting table 103 to be pushed up by the pick roller. 115 is determined to be in contact. When the medium placed on the mounting table 103 comes into contact with the pick roller 115, the control unit 161 controls the first motor 131 to stop the mounting table 103. In this way, the control unit 161 controls the first motor 131 so that the mounting table 103 is placed at a position where the uppermost medium among the media placed on the mounting table 103 comes into contact with the pick roller 115. control.

Next, the detection unit 162 detects the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 (step S105). The detection unit 162 receives a displacement signal from the displacement sensor 112, and identifies a first distance from the displacement sensor 112 to the mounting table 103 (the back surface of the mounting surface 103a) based on the received displacement signal. The detection unit 162 refers to the first table stored in the first storage device 150 and specifies the distance corresponding to the signal value of the received displacement signal as the first distance. The detection unit 162 may specify the first distance based on the statistical value of the signal values of the plurality of displacement signals, similar to the process in step S101. The detection unit 162 detects the difference between the first distance and the first reference distance specified in step S101 as the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 from the initial position.

Next, the detection unit 162 detects the current position of the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103 based on the detected movement amount of the mounting table 103 (step S106). The detection unit 162 detects a position above the position of the mounting surface 103a when the mounting table 103 is placed at the initial position, which is stored in the first storage device 150, by the amount of movement detected in step S105. It is detected as the current position of the placing surface 103a. Generally, the arrangement position of the displacement sensor 112 or the direction of light irradiation varies from device to device. Therefore, when the current position of the mounting surface 103a is calculated directly from the displacement signal output from the displacement sensor 112, the calculated current position may include errors due to variations in the displacement sensor 112. The detection unit 162 can detect the current position of the mounting surface 103a with higher accuracy by using the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 from the initial position.

Next, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting base 103 based on the detected current position of the mounting surface 103a, that is, the placement position of the mounting base 103 (step S107). . The detection unit 162 calculates the distance between the detected current position of the mounting surface 103a and the lower end position of the pick roller 115 stored in the first storage device 150 for the entire length of the medium mounted on the mounting table 103. Detect as thickness.

In this way, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the placement position of the mounting table 103. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 with high precision. In particular, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 from the initial position. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 with higher precision.

Next, the estimating unit 163 calculates the remaining number (total number) of the media placed on the mounting table 103 or all of the media placed on the mounting table 103 based on the thickness detected by the detecting unit 162. The imaging completion time until the imaging of the medium is completed is estimated (step S108).

The estimating unit 163 divides the thickness detected by the detecting unit 162 by the thickness of one sheet of general PPC (Plain Paper Copier) paper (for example, [90 μm]), and calculates the thickness of the sheet placed on the mounting table 103. Calculate the remaining number of media (total number). Furthermore, the estimation unit 163 reads out the profile set by the user from the first storage device 150 and specifies the resolution of the image to be generated. The estimation unit 163 specifies the conveyance speed of the medium by each roller based on the specified resolution, and divides the specified conveyance speed from the most frequently used medium size (for example, A4 vertical size). Calculate the transport time per sheet of media. The estimation unit 163 calculates the imaging completion time by multiplying the calculated remaining number of media (total number) by the calculated transportation time per medium.

Next, the output control unit 164 outputs the remaining number of media (total number) or the imaging completion time estimated by the estimation unit 163 (step S109). The output control unit 164 outputs the remaining number of media (total number) or the imaging completion time estimated by the estimation unit 163 by displaying it on the first display device 107 . Note that the output control unit 164 may output the remaining number of media (total number) or imaging completion time estimated by the estimation unit 163 by transmitting it to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 142. . The output control section 164 is an example of a transmitting section.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen 1300 displayed on the first display device 107.

As shown in FIG. 13, the display screen 1300 includes the remaining number and total number of media estimated by the estimation unit 163, and the imaging completion time. By referring to the display screen 1300, the user can predict with high accuracy the time it will take to complete the scanning process for the group of media currently placed on the mounting table 103. This allows the user to continue staying near the image reading device 100 in order to take out the media group ejected to the eject table 105 or to set the next medium group to be processed on the mounting table 103. , it is possible to appropriately judge whether to leave the image reading apparatus 100 and perform another task. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can improve convenience for the user. Note that the total number of media does not need to be displayed on the display screen 1300. Further, on the display screen 1300, either the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time may not be displayed.

Next, the control unit 161 rotates the pick roller 115, the feeding roller 117, the separating roller 118, the first to sixth transport rollers 120a to 120f, and/or the first to sixth driven rollers 121a to 121f to The second motor 141 is controlled to convey the (step S110).

Next, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the medium currently being transported and stores it in the first storage device 150 (step S111).

The detection unit 162 first waits until the leading edge of the medium passes the position of the ultrasonic sensor 119. The detection unit 162 periodically acquires the second medium signal from the second medium sensor 122, and changes the signal value of the second medium signal from a value indicating that the medium is not present to a value indicating that the medium is present. When this occurs, it is determined that the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 122. The detection unit 162 determines that the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the ultrasonic sensor 119 when the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 122 . Note that the detection unit 162 may determine that the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the ultrasonic sensor 119 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of conveyance (feeding) of the medium.

When the leading edge of the medium passes the position of the ultrasonic sensor 119, the detection unit 162 receives an ultrasonic signal from the ultrasonic sensor 119, and detects the thickness of the medium based on the received ultrasonic signal. The image reading device 100 stores in advance in the first storage device 150 a table that associates the signal value of the ultrasonic signal with the thickness of the medium through which the ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic sensor 119 is transmitted. The detection unit 162 refers to the table and specifies the thickness corresponding to the signal value of the received ultrasonic signal as the thickness of the medium currently being transported. In this way, the detection unit 162 determines whether the medium is being transported based on the ultrasonic signal output from the ultrasonic sensor 119, that is, based on the transmission intensity of the ultrasonic wave that is transmitted through the medium and detected by the ultrasonic sensor 119. Detects the thickness of each medium.

Note that the detection unit 162 may further determine whether or not double feeding of media has occurred based on the received ultrasonic signal. The detection unit 162 determines that double feeding of the medium has not occurred when the signal value of the ultrasonic signal is equal to or higher than the double feeding threshold, and determines that double feeding of the medium has not occurred when the signal value of the ultrasonic signal is less than the double feeding threshold. It is determined that double feeding has occurred. The double feed threshold is set, for example, to a value between the signal value of the ultrasonic signal when one sheet of PPC paper is being conveyed and the signal value of the ultrasonic signal when double feeding of paper is occurring. be done.

When the detection unit 162 determines that double feeding of media has occurred, the control unit 161 executes abnormality processing. As abnormality processing, the control unit 161 stops the second motor 141 and stops feeding and transporting the medium. Additionally, the control unit 161 displays information indicating that double feeding of media has occurred on the first display device 107 or transmits the information to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 142 as an abnormality process. Notify the person. Note that, as an abnormality process, the control unit 161 may stop the medium reading process after discharging the medium currently being transported. Further, as abnormality processing, the control unit 161 may control the conveyance unit to drive the second motor 141 and cause the medium to be sent backwards, temporarily returned to the mounting table 103, and then fed again. As a result, the user does not need to reload the medium on the mounting table 103 and refeed it, and the control unit 161 can improve convenience for the user.

Next, the control unit 161 acquires an input image from the imaging device 123, and outputs the acquired input image by transmitting it to the information processing device via the first communication device 142 (step S112).

The control unit 161 first waits until the rear end of the medium passes the imaging position of the imaging device 123. The control unit 161 periodically acquires the second medium signal from the second medium sensor 122, and changes the signal value of the second medium signal from a value indicating that the medium is present to a value indicating that the medium is not present. At this time, it is determined that the rear end of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 122. The control unit 161 determines that the rear end of the medium has passed the imaging position when a first predetermined time has elapsed since the rear end of the medium passed the position of the second medium sensor 122 . The first predetermined time is set to a value obtained by adding a margin to the time required for the medium to move from the position of the second medium sensor 122 to the imaging position. When the trailing edge of the medium passes through the imaging position of the imaging device 123, the control unit 161 acquires an input image from the imaging device 123.

Further, the control unit 161 stores the elapsed time from the start of conveyance of the medium until the rear end of the medium passes the imaging position of the imaging device 123 in the first storage device 150 as the conveyance time of the medium. Alternatively, the control unit 161 controls the process from when the trailing edge of the medium conveyed immediately before passes the imaging position of the imaging device 123 until the trailing edge of the medium currently being transported passes the imaging position of the imaging device 123. The elapsed time is stored in the first storage device 150 as the medium transport time.

Next, the detection unit 162 calculates the trimmed average of the thickness of each of the predetermined number of recently transported media stored in the first storage device 150 (step S113). The predetermined number is set to an arbitrary value of 2 or more (for example, 10). The detection unit 162 calculates a trimmed average by removing a predetermined percentage (for example, 10%) of data from the maximum value side. For example, when the predetermined number is 10 and the predetermined ratio is 10%, the detection unit 162 detects 9 of the thicknesses of the last 10 media stored in the first storage device 150 excluding the maximum value. The average value of the thickness of the media is calculated as the trimmed average. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can calculate the average value of the thickness of the medium being conveyed without being affected by cardboard or the like that is rarely conveyed.

Note that the detection unit 162 may calculate the trimmed average by further removing a predetermined percentage (for example, 10%) of data from the minimum value side. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can calculate the average value of the thickness of the medium being conveyed without being influenced by thin paper or the like that is rarely conveyed. In addition, if the predetermined number of media has not been conveyed yet, the detection unit 162 calculates the trim average by using the thickness of one sheet of general PPC paper (for example, [90 μm]) as the thickness of the missing media. You may.

In this way, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of each medium by using the trimmed average of the thickness of each of the predetermined number of media. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the thickness of each conveyed medium with high precision without being affected by outliers due to a type of medium different from a normal medium that is rarely conveyed.

Next, the detection unit 162 detects (updates) the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the calculated trimmed average of the thickness of each of the predetermined number of mediums (step S114). . The detection unit 162 regards the trim average calculated in step S113 as the thickness of the medium currently being transported. The detection unit 162 subtracts the calculated trim average from the thickness of the entire medium detected in step S107, S114, or S122 immediately before, and calculates the subtraction value as the thickness of the entire medium currently placed on the mounting table 103. Detected as Thereby, the detection unit 162 can update the detected value of the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 in real time and with high precision.

In this way, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 at each conveyance interval of each medium. The conveyance interval for each medium is an example of a specific interval.

Next, the estimation unit 163 corrects the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected (updated) for each medium conveyance interval by the detection unit 162. (estimate) (step S115).

Similarly to the process in step S108, the estimating unit 163 divides the thickness updated by the detecting unit 162 by the thickness of a sheet of general PPC paper placed on the mounting table 103. Calculate the remaining number of media. Further, similarly to the process in step S108, the estimating unit 163 calculates the imaging completion time by multiplying the calculated remaining number of media by the transportation time per medium calculated from the profile set by the user. Calculate. Thereby, the estimation unit 163 can update the estimated value of the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 and the imaging completion time in real time and with high precision.

Note that the estimation unit 163 calculates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or The imaging completion time may be corrected. For example, the estimation unit 163 calculates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 by dividing the thickness updated by the detection unit 162 by the trim average calculated in step S113. In general, there is a high possibility that the types (thicknesses) of the media that are collectively placed on the mounting table 103 and transported are the same. The estimation unit 163 can estimate the remaining number of media with higher accuracy by correcting the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 based on the thickness of the medium being transported.

Furthermore, the estimating unit 163 multiplies the calculated remaining number of media by the average value (or trimmed average) of the transport time required to transport the actual media stored in the first storage device 150. , the imaging completion time may be calculated. In general, there is a high possibility that the sizes of the media that are collectively placed on the mounting table 103 and transported are the same. The estimation unit 163 can estimate the imaging completion time with higher accuracy by correcting the imaging completion time of the medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the size of the medium being transported.

Furthermore, the estimating unit 163 may correct the total number of media estimated in step S108 based on the corrected remaining number of media. In that case, the estimating unit 163 calculates (corrects) the total number of media by adding the number of media transported so far to the corrected remaining number of media.

Next, the output control unit 164 outputs the remaining number of media (total number) or the imaging completion time estimated by the estimation unit 163 in the same manner as the process in step S109 (step S116).

Next, the control unit 161 determines whether or not a medium remains on the mounting table 103 based on the first medium signal received from the first medium sensor 111 (step S117).

If the medium remains on the mounting table 103, the control unit 161 determines whether the medium placed on the mounting table 103 is in contact with the pick roller 115 in the same manner as in step S104 (step S118).

If the medium placed on the mounting table 103 is in contact with the pick roller 115, the control unit 161 returns the process to step S111, acquires an input image for the next medium to be conveyed, and determines the thickness of the medium. The remaining number of media or the imaging completion time is updated based on the current status.

On the other hand, if the medium placed on the mounting table 103 is not in contact with the pick roller 115, the control unit 161 controls the first motor 131 to generate the first driving force, and raises the mounting table 103. Then, the mounting table 103 is set at the transport position (step S119). The control unit 161 sets the mounting table 103 at the transport position and brings the medium placed on the mounting table 103 into contact with the pick roller 115 in the same manner as in the process of step S104.

As described above, the pick roller 115 is pressed downward by the urging member 137c, and remains on the mounting table 103 even if the mounting table 103 does not move while a specific number of media are being conveyed. It continues to make contact with the medium placed on the top of the media placed on top. The control unit 161 causes the uppermost medium among the media placed on the mounting table 103 to be picked every time a specific number of media among the media placed on the mounting table 103 are transported. The mounting table 103 is controlled so that the mounting table 103 is placed at a position where it contacts the roller 115. Thereby, the image reading apparatus 100 can reduce the frequency with which the mounting table 103 is moved by the first motor 131 and shorten the processing time required for the medium reading process.

Next, the detection unit 162 detects the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 (step S120). The detection unit 162 receives a displacement signal from the displacement sensor 112 in the same way as the process in step S105, and based on the received displacement signal, the detection unit 162 detects the displacement from the displacement sensor 112 to the mounting table 103 (the back surface of the mounting surface 103a). 1. Identify the distance. The detection unit 162 detects the difference between the first distance specified this time and the first distance specified in step S105 or S120 immediately before as the amount of movement of the mounting table 103.

Next, the detection unit 162 detects (updates) the current position of the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103 based on the detected movement amount of the mounting table 103 (step S121). The detection unit 162 determines, as the current position of the mounting surface 103a, a position that is above the position of the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103 detected in step S106 or S121 immediately before by the amount of movement detected in step S120. To detect. As described above, generally, the arrangement position of the displacement sensor 112 or the direction of light irradiation varies from device to device. Therefore, when the current position of the mounting surface 103a is calculated directly from the displacement signal output from the displacement sensor 112, the calculated current position may include errors due to variations in the displacement sensor 112. By using the amount of movement of the mounting table 103, the detection unit 162 can detect the current position of the mounting surface 103a with higher precision.

Next, in the same manner as in step S107, the detection unit 162 detects the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the detected current position of the mounting surface 103a, that is, the arrangement position of the mounting table 103. The thickness is detected (updated) (step S122).

In this way, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the placement position of the mounting table 103. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 with high precision. In particular, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the accumulated amount of movement of the mounting table 103 from the initial position. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 with higher precision.

Further, the detection unit 162 raises the mounting table 103 every time a specific number of media are transported, and detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 at each interval of raising the mounting table 103. Detect. The interval at which the mounting table 103 is raised is an example of a specific interval.

Next, the estimating unit 163 calculates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected (updated) at each interval of raising the mounting table 103 by the detecting unit 162. is corrected (estimated) (step S123).

Similarly to the process in step S108, the estimating unit 163 divides the thickness updated by the detecting unit 162 by the thickness of a sheet of general PPC paper placed on the mounting table 103. Calculate the remaining number of media. Further, similarly to the process in step S108, the estimating unit 163 calculates the imaging completion time by multiplying the calculated remaining number of media by the transportation time per medium calculated from the profile set by the user. Calculate. Thereby, the estimation unit 163 can update the estimated value of the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 and the imaging completion time in real time and with high precision.

Note that the estimation unit 163 may correct the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time based on the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 detected by the detection unit 162 in step S120. . The amount of movement of the mounting table 103 detected by the detection unit 162 in step S120 corresponds to the thickness of the entire medium conveyed between the time when the mounting table 103 was moved immediately before and the time when the mounting table 103 was moved this time. That is, the estimating unit 163 calculates the remaining amount of the medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the amount of change in the thickness of the entire medium, which is detected by the detecting unit 162 while a specific number of mediums are being conveyed. The number or imaging completion time may be corrected.

For example, the estimation unit 163 divides the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 detected in step S120 by the number of media conveyed between when the mounting table 103 was moved immediately before and when the mounting table 103 is moved this time. By doing so, the average value of the thickness of each medium conveyed during that time is calculated. The estimating unit 163 divides the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103, updated by the detecting unit 162 in step S120, by the average thickness of each medium. Calculate the remaining number of mounted media. As described above, in general, there is a high possibility that the types (thicknesses) of the media that are collectively placed on the mounting table 103 and transported are the same. The estimation unit 163 can estimate the remaining number of media with higher accuracy by correcting the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 based on the thickness of the medium being transported.

Furthermore, the estimating unit 163 multiplies the calculated remaining number of media by the average value (or trimmed average) of the transport time required to transport the actual media stored in the first storage device 150. , the imaging completion time may be calculated. As described above, in general, it is highly likely that the sizes of the media that are collectively placed on the mounting table 103 and transported are the same. The estimation unit 163 can estimate the imaging completion time with higher accuracy by correcting the imaging completion time of the medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on the size of the medium being transported.

Furthermore, the estimating unit 163 may correct the total number of media estimated in step S108 based on the corrected remaining number of media. In that case, the estimating unit 163 calculates (corrects) the total number of media by adding the number of media transported so far to the corrected remaining number of media.

Next, the output control unit 164 outputs the remaining number (total number) of media or the imaging completion time estimated by the estimation unit 163 in the same manner as the process in step S109 (step S124). Next, the control unit 161 returns the process to step S111, acquires an input image for the next medium to be conveyed, and updates the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time based on the thickness of the medium.

On the other hand, in step S117, if no medium remains on the mounting table 103, the control unit 161 controls the second motor 141 to stop each roller (step S125), and returns the process to step S101. In this case, the control unit 161 lowers the mounting table 103 to place it at the initial position in step S101, and waits until receiving a new operation signal in step S102. This concludes the explanation of the medium reading process.

Note that in steps S105 and S120, the detection unit 162 may detect the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 based on the ranging signal output from the ranging sensor 114.

In that case, in step S101, the detection unit 162 receives a distance measurement signal from the distance measurement sensor 114 with the mounting table 103 disposed at the initial position, and based on the received distance measurement signal, detects the distance measurement signal from the distance measurement sensor 114. A second reference distance from to the mounting table 103 (mounting surface 103a) is specified. The image reading device 100 stores in advance in the first storage device 150 a second table that associates the signal value of the distance measurement signal with the distance from the displacement sensor 112 to the light reflection position. The detection unit 162 refers to the second table and specifies the distance corresponding to the signal value of the received ranging signal as the second reference distance. Note that the detection unit 162 receives the distance measurement signal from the distance measurement sensor 114 multiple times, and calculates the statistical value (average value, median value, minimum value, maximum value, etc.) of the signal values of the received multiple distance measurement signals. Based on this, the second reference distance may be specified. Thereby, the detection unit 162 can detect the position of the mounting table 103 with high precision even when the mounting table 103 is vibrating.

On the other hand, in steps S105 and S120, the detection unit 162 receives the distance measurement signal from the distance measurement sensor 114, and based on the received distance measurement signal, the detection unit 162 2. Identify the distance. The detection unit 162 refers to the second table stored in the first storage device 150 and specifies the distance corresponding to the signal value of the received ranging signal as the second distance. Note that the detection unit 162 may specify the second distance based on the statistical value of the signal values of the plurality of ranging signals, similar to the process in step S101. The detection unit 162 detects the difference between the second distance and the second reference distance specified in step S101 as the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 from the initial position.

Further, in steps S105 and S120, the detection unit 162 may detect the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 based on the amount of drive of the first motor 131. In that case, the image reading device 100 stores in advance in the first storage device 150 a table that associates the amount of drive of the first motor 131 with the amount of movement of the mounting table 103. The detection unit 162 acquires the amount of drive by which the first motor 131 was driven from the control unit 161, refers to the table stored in the first storage device 150, and calculates the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 from the acquired amount of drive. Detect.

The image reading device 100 can detect the current position of the mounting surface 103a without using a special sensor by detecting the amount of movement of the mounting table 103 based on the drive amount of the first motor 131. . Therefore, the image reading device 100 can detect the current position of the placement surface 103a while suppressing an increase in device cost. However, when the mounting table 103 is moved, minute vibrations may occur. Therefore, by using the displacement sensor 112 or the ranging sensor 114, the image reading device 100 can detect the current position of the mounting surface 103a with higher accuracy.

Furthermore, in steps S105 and S106 or S120 and S121, the detection unit 162 directly detects the current position of the mounting surface 103a from the displacement signal received from the displacement sensor 112 without detecting the amount of movement of the mounting table 103. May be detected. In that case, the image reading device 100 stores in the first storage device 150 in advance a table that associates the signal value of the displacement signal with the position of the placement surface 103a. The detection unit 162 refers to the table and detects the position corresponding to the signal value of the received displacement signal as the current position of the mounting surface 103a. Note that the detection unit 162 may detect the current position of the mounting surface 103a based on statistical values of signal values of a plurality of displacement signals.

The displacement signal output from the displacement sensor 112 changes depending on the distance from the displacement sensor 112 to the mounting table 103. That is, in this case, the detection unit 162 detects the current position of the mounting surface 103a based on the distance between the displacement sensor 112 and the mounting table 103, and calculates the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103. Detect the Thereby, the image reading device 100 can detect the thickness of the medium more easily, and can reduce the time required for the medium reading process.

Similarly, in steps S105 and S106 or S120 and S121, the detection unit 162 directly detects the distance of the mounting surface 103a from the distance measurement signal received from the distance measurement sensor 114 without detecting the movement amount of the mounting table 103. The current position may also be detected. In that case, the image reading device 100 stores in the first storage device 150 in advance a table that associates the signal value of the distance measurement signal with the position of the mounting surface 103a. The detection unit 162 refers to the table and detects the position corresponding to the signal value of the received ranging signal as the current position of the mounting surface 103a. Note that the detection unit 162 may detect the current position of the mounting surface 103a based on statistical values of signal values of a plurality of ranging signals.

The distance measurement signal output from the distance measurement sensor 114 changes depending on the distance from the distance measurement sensor 114 to the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. That is, in this case, the detection unit 162 detects the current position of the mounting surface 103a based on the distance between the ranging sensor 114 and the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103, and detects the current position of the mounting surface 103a. Detects the total thickness of the media. Thereby, the image reading device 100 can detect the thickness of the medium more easily, and can reduce the time required for the medium reading process.

In these cases, in step S123, the detection unit 162 detects the distance between the position of the placement surface 103a detected immediately before and the position of the placement surface 103a detected this time as the amount of change in the thickness of the entire medium. do. Then, the estimation unit 163 corrects the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time based on the amount of change in the thickness of the entire medium detected by the detection unit 162.

Further, the process of step S113 may be omitted. In that case, in step S114, the detection unit 162 calculates a subtracted value obtained by subtracting the average value of the thickness of each of the predetermined number of media from the latest thickness of the entire medium, for example, the number of media currently placed on the mounting table 103. The thickness of the entire medium is detected. The detection unit 162 also detects the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the thickness of the medium currently being transported from the latest thickness of the entire medium as the thickness of the entire medium currently placed on the mounting table 103. Good too. In these cases as well, the detection unit 162 can update the detected value of the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 in real time.

Further, any one of the processing in steps S113 to S116 and the processing in steps S120 to S124 may be omitted.

Further, in the image reading device 100, the pick roller sensor 116 may be omitted. In that case, in steps S104 and S119, the control unit 161 drives the first motor 131 by a predetermined drive amount. The predetermined drive amount when moving the mounting table 103 from the initial position is the distance between the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103 placed at the initial position and the lower surface of the pick roller 115 placed at a predetermined position within the movable range. The driving amount is set to move the mounting table 103 by a distance of . In that case, when a large amount of media is placed on the mounting table 103, the first motor 131 continues to drive even after the pick roller 115 is placed at the uppermost position within its movable range, resulting in increased power consumption. do. However, even in this case, the control unit 161 can move the mounting table 103 to a position where it comes into contact with the medium.

Furthermore, in step S118, the control unit 161 determines whether a predetermined number of media have been conveyed after the pick roller 115 is placed at a predetermined position. The predetermined number is a value less than or equal to the division value obtained by dividing the distance between the predetermined position and the lowest position within the movable range of the pick roller 115 by the maximum thickness of the medium supported by the image reading device 100. Set. The predetermined number may be set to one. If the predetermined number of media have not yet been conveyed after the pick roller 115 is placed at the predetermined position, the control unit 161 returns the process to step S111 and does not move the mounting table 103. On the other hand, if a predetermined number of media have been transported after the pick roller 115 is placed at a predetermined position, the control unit 161 moves the process to step S119 and raises the mounting table 103. In this case, the predetermined drive amount is set to the drive amount for moving the mounting table 103 by the distance between the predetermined position and the lowest position within the movable range of the pick roller 115.

In this case as well, the control unit 161 controls the control unit 161 to place the uppermost medium among the media placed on the mounting table 103 at a position where it contacts the pick roller 115 every time a specific number of media are transported. The mounting table 103 is controlled so that the mounting table 103 is placed.

Further, in the image reading device 100, a thickness sensor may be used instead of the ultrasonic sensor 119. The thickness sensor is placed at the location where the ultrasonic sensor is placed. The thickness sensor includes a light emitter and a light receiver. The light emitter and the light receiver are disposed near the medium transport path and face each other across the transport path. The light emitter emits light (infrared light or visible light) toward the light receiver. On the other hand, the light receiver receives the light emitted by the light emitter, generates and outputs a thickness signal that is an electrical signal according to the intensity of the received light. That is, the thickness signal indicates the thickness of the medium, and the thickness sensor detects the thickness of the medium. When a plurality of media are conveyed in an overlapping manner, the total thickness of the overlapping media becomes large. Furthermore, the light emitted by the light emitter and transmitted through the medium is attenuated as the thickness of the medium increases. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can detect double feeding of the medium and detect the thickness of the medium based on the thickness signal. For example, a thickness sensor generates a thickness signal such that the greater the thickness of the medium, the greater the signal value.

Note that a reflected light sensor, a pressure sensor, or a mechanical sensor may be used as the thickness sensor. The reflected light sensor includes a pair of a light emitter and a light receiver provided on one side with respect to a medium transport path, and a pair of a light emitter and a light receiver provided on the other side. Reflected light sensors measure the time from when one pair irradiates light to one side of the medium until the reflected light is received, and the time from when the other pair irradiates light to the other side of the medium until the reflected light is received. The distance between each pair and each surface of the medium is detected based on the time until light is received. The reflected light sensor generates a thickness signal that indicates the thickness of the medium by subtracting each detected distance from the distance between the two pairs. The pressure sensor detects a pressure that varies depending on the thickness of the medium and generates a thickness signal indicating the detected pressure as the thickness of the medium. The mechanical sensor detects the amount of movement of the roller in contact with the medium and generates a thickness signal indicating the detected amount of movement as the thickness of the medium.

In this case, in step S111, when the leading edge of the medium passes the position of the medium sensor, the detection unit 162 receives a thickness signal from the thickness sensor and calculates the thickness of the medium based on the received thickness signal. To detect. The image reading device 100 stores in the first storage device 150 in advance a table that associates the signal value of the thickness signal with the thickness of the medium. The detection unit 162 refers to the table and identifies the thickness corresponding to the signal value of the received thickness signal as the thickness of the medium currently being transported. In this way, the detection unit 162 detects the thickness of each medium to be transported based on the thickness signal output from the thickness sensor, that is, based on the thickness of the medium detected by the thickness sensor. do.

Furthermore, the detection unit 162 may further determine whether or not double feeding of media has occurred based on the received thickness signal. The detection unit 162 determines that double feeding of the medium has not occurred when the signal value of the thickness signal is less than or equal to the double feeding threshold, and determines that double feeding of the medium has not occurred when the signal value of the thickness signal is greater than the double feeding threshold. It is determined that a transfer has occurred. The double feed threshold is set, for example, to a value between the signal value of the thickness signal when one sheet of PPC paper is being conveyed and the signal value of the thickness signal when double feed of paper is occurring. be done.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display processing operation of the information processing apparatus 200.

Hereinafter, an example of the display processing operation of the information processing device 200 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 14. Note that the operation flow described below is mainly executed by the second processing circuit 220 in cooperation with each element of the information processing device 200 based on a program stored in the second storage device 210 in advance.

First, the receiving unit 221 receives a message from one of the plurality of image reading devices 100 via the second communication device 203 of the remaining number (total number) of media placed on the mounting table 103. Alternatively, it waits until the imaging completion time is received (step S201). The receiving unit 221 receives the remaining number (total number) of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time estimated by the estimating unit 163 from each of the plurality of image reading devices 100 .

When the receiving unit 221 receives the remaining number (total number) of media or the imaging completion time from any of the image reading devices 100, the display control unit 222 displays the remaining number (total number) or imaging completion time received by the receiving unit 221. The time is displayed on the second display device 202 (step S202). Next, the display control unit 222 returns the process to step S201 and repeats the processes of steps S201 and S202.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen 1500 displayed on the second display device 202.

As shown in FIG. 15, the display screen 1500 includes the remaining number of media received by the receiving unit 221 and the imaging completion time for each image reading device 100 that is communicatively connected to the information processing device 200. The display screen 1500 displays the latest remaining number and imaging completion time received from each image reading device 100. By referring to the display screen 1500, the user can highly accurately predict the time it will take for each image reading device 100 to complete the scanning process for the group of media currently placed on the mounting table 103. . Thereby, the user can appropriately select the image reading device 100 to be used next and recognize the time when the image reading device 100 will be available for use. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can improve convenience for the user. Note that the total number of media may also be displayed on the display screen 1500. Further, on the display screen 1500, either the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time may not be displayed.

As described in detail above, the image processing system 1 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 in real time, and estimates the number of remaining mediums or the imaging completion time based on the detected thickness. do. This makes it possible for the image processing system 1 to accurately estimate the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time.

In general, image reading devices such as scanners do not recognize the number of media being transported, unlike printers that transport the number of sheets of paper specified by the user while printing them. The image reading process is executed until there are no more images left. Therefore, conventionally, a user of image reading processing has not been able to recognize the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time. For example, in a large image reading device that can sequentially convey a large amount of media, such as 500 to 700 sheets, it may take a long time of 3 minutes or more to complete conveyance of all the media.

The image processing system 1 estimates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time, and notifies the user. As a result, the user can appropriately judge the timing to collect the medium ejected into the image reading device 100 or which image reading device 100 to use next, and the image processing system 1 can It has become possible to improve the convenience of users.

For example, when a large number of image reading devices 100 are used by a plurality of users (a small number of users), such as when scanning a large number of ballot papers in an election or when scanning a large number of forms in a business that handles forms. There are times when a large amount of media is scanned. In such a case, the total time required to scan a large amount of media largely depends on the operating rate of the device (the waiting time until the user sets the media). The user of the image processing system 1 appropriately selects the image reading device 100 to scan the medium based on the notified number of remaining media or imaging completion time, and the selected image reading device 100 becomes available for use. Able to recognize time. Therefore, the user can efficiently use the image reading device 100, and the image processing system 1 can complete the scanning process of a large amount of media in a short time.

In addition, the image reading device 100 calculates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time based on the thickness of the entire medium, not the weight of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103. Estimate. Therefore, the image reading apparatus 100 can estimate the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time with high accuracy, regardless of the size of the media placed on the mounting table 103. In particular, the image reading device 100 can estimate the remaining number of media or the imaging completion time with high accuracy even when media having different sizes (areas) are conveyed all at once.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first processing circuit 360 of an image reading device according to another embodiment.

The first processing circuit 360 is used in place of the first processing circuit 160 of the image reading device 100 and executes a medium reading process, etc. in place of the first processing circuit 160. The first processing circuit 360 includes a control circuit 361, a detection circuit 362, an estimation circuit 363, an output control circuit 364, and the like. Note that each of these units may be configured with an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, firmware, or the like.

The control circuit 361 is an example of a control section and has the same functions as the control section 161. The control circuit 361 receives an operation signal from the first operating device 106 or the first communication device 142 , a first medium signal from the first medium sensor 111 , and a second medium signal from the second medium sensor 122 . The control circuit 361 controls the first motor 131 and the second motor 141 based on each received signal, acquires an input image from the imaging device 123, and outputs it to the first communication device 142.

The detection circuit 362 is an example of a detection section and has the same function as the detection section 162. The detection circuit 362 receives a displacement signal from the displacement sensor 112, a first detection signal from the mounting table sensor 113, a distance measurement signal from the distance measurement sensor 114, a second detection signal from the pick roller sensor 116, and a second detection signal from the ultrasonic sensor 119. Receive ultrasound signals. The detection circuit 362 detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 based on each received signal, and outputs the detection result to the estimation circuit 363.

Estimating circuit 363 is an example of an estimating section and has the same function as estimating section 163. The estimation circuit 363 receives the detection result of the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table 103 from the detection circuit 362. The estimation circuit 363 estimates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time based on the received detection result, and outputs the estimation result to the output control circuit 364.

The output control circuit 364 is an example of an output control section, and has the same function as the output control section 164. The output control circuit 364 receives the estimation result of the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time from the estimation circuit 363, and outputs the received estimation result to the first display device 107 or the first communication device. 142.

As described in detail above, even when the image reading device uses the first processing circuit 360, the image processing system can accurately estimate the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time. became possible.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second processing circuit 420 of an information processing device according to another embodiment.

The second processing circuit 420 is used instead of the second processing circuit 220 of the information processing device 200 and performs display processing and the like instead of the second processing circuit 220. The second processing circuit 420 includes a receiving circuit 421, a display control circuit 422, and the like. Note that each of these units may be configured with an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, firmware, or the like.

The receiving circuit 421 is an example of a receiving section and has the same function as the receiving section 221. The receiving circuit 421 receives the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the estimation result of the imaging completion time from the second communication device 203 and outputs it to the display control circuit 422 .

The display control circuit 422 is an example of a display control section and has the same functions as the display control section 222. The display control circuit 422 receives the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the estimation result of the imaging completion time from the receiving circuit 421 and outputs it to the second display device 202 .

As described in detail above, even when the information processing apparatus uses the second processing circuit 420, the image processing system can accurately estimate the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table 103 or the imaging completion time. became possible.

1 image processing system, 100 image reading device, 103 mounting table, 103a mounting surface, 112 displacement sensor, 114 ranging sensor, 115 pick roller, 123 imaging device, 161 control unit, 162 detection unit, 163 estimation unit, 164 output Control unit, 200 Information processing device, 221 Receiving unit, 222 Display control unit

Claims (16)

It has a plurality of image reading devices and an information processing device,
Each of the plurality of image reading devices includes:
A mounting table,
a roller that sequentially conveys the plurality of media placed on the mounting table;
an imaging unit that images the medium conveyed by the roller;
a detection unit that detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table at specific intervals;
an estimating unit that estimates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected at each specific interval by the detecting unit;
a transmitting unit that transmits the remaining number or imaging completion time estimated by the estimating unit to the information processing device,
The information processing device includes:
a receiving unit that receives the remaining number or the imaging completion time from each of the plurality of image reading devices;
a display control unit that displays the remaining number or imaging completion time received by the receiving unit;
An image processing system comprising: The above-mentioned mounting stand is provided so as to be able to rise,
A position where the uppermost medium among the media placed on the placement table comes into contact with the roller each time a specific number of media placed on the placement table are transported. further comprising a control unit that controls the mounting base so that the mounting base is placed at
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting base based on the arrangement position of the mounting base. The control unit places the placement table at an initial position for a user to place the medium before starting conveyance of the medium;
further comprising a sensor for detecting the amount of movement of the mounting table,
The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting base based on the amount of movement from the initial position. further comprising a sensor for detecting a distance between the device and the mounting table;
The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table based on the distance. further comprising an ultrasonic sensor for detecting the transmission intensity of the ultrasonic wave transmitted through the medium,
The detection unit includes:
Detecting the thickness of each medium based on the transmitted intensity,
The image processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table is detected based on the detected thickness of each medium. The image processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of each medium based on a trimmed average of the thickness of each of a predetermined number of media. 3. The estimation unit corrects the remaining number or the imaging completion time based on the amount of change in thickness detected by the detection unit while a specific number of media are conveyed. The image processing system described. A mounting table,
a roller that sequentially conveys the plurality of media placed on the mounting table;
an imaging unit that images the medium conveyed by the roller;
a detection unit that detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table at specific intervals;
an estimating unit that estimates the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected at each specific interval by the detecting unit;
an output control unit that outputs the remaining number or imaging completion time estimated by the estimation unit;
An image reading device comprising: The above-mentioned mounting stand is provided so as to be able to rise,
A position where the uppermost medium among the media placed on the placement table comes into contact with the roller each time a specific number of media placed on the placement table are transported. further comprising a control unit that controls the mounting base so that the mounting base is placed at
The image reading device according to claim 8, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting base based on the arrangement position of the mounting base. The control unit places the placement table at an initial position for a user to place the medium before starting conveyance of the medium;
further comprising a sensor for detecting the amount of movement of the mounting table,
The image reading device according to claim 9, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting base based on the amount of movement from the initial position. further comprising a sensor for detecting a distance between the device and the mounting table;
The image reading device according to claim 9, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table based on the distance. further comprising an ultrasonic sensor for detecting the transmission intensity of the ultrasonic wave transmitted through the medium,
The detection unit includes:
Detecting the thickness of each medium based on the transmitted intensity,
The image reading device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table is detected based on the detected thickness of each medium. The image reading device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the detection unit detects the thickness of each medium based on a trimmed average of the thickness of each of a predetermined number of media. The estimation unit corrects the remaining number or the imaging completion time based on the amount of change in thickness detected by the detection unit while a specific number of media are conveyed. The image reading device described. The rollers sequentially convey multiple media placed on the mounting table,
An image capturing unit captures an image of the medium conveyed by the roller,
Detecting the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table at specific intervals,
Estimating the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected at each specific interval,
outputting the estimated remaining number or imaging completion time;
An estimation method characterized by: A control program for an image reading device including a mounting table, a roller that sequentially conveys a plurality of media placed on the mounting table, and an imaging unit that images the medium conveyed by the roller, the program comprising:
Detecting the thickness of the entire medium placed on the mounting table at specific intervals,
Estimating the remaining number of media placed on the mounting table or the imaging completion time based on the thickness detected at each specific interval,
outputting the estimated remaining number or imaging completion time;
A control program that causes the image reading device to execute the following.

Images