Patent ID: 6101291
Filing Date: 2000-08-08
Classification: G03G,H04N

Abstract:
An improved image-acquisition apparatus of the type having a transparent platen with an inner surface and outer surface, the outer surface being adapted for receiving thereon a workpiece having graphic matter, and an image-acquisition device disposed proximal the inner surface of the platen, distal the outer surface, having imaging optics for transferring to another medium an image displayed through a select area of the platen defining a platen-select area, wherein when the workpiece is positioned on the platen in a desired orientation, the graphic matter is disposed within the platen-select area so that upon operating the apparatus the graphic matter is transferred to the medium, the apparatus further having at least one control setting for adjusting the platen-select area, the improvement comprising:a preview display screen visible to a user; andan image-processing system coupled to the preview display screen and disposed proximal the inner surface of the platen, wherein the image-processing system is a separable unit from the image-acquisition apparatus, is adapted for use with a one-dimensional image-acquisition device, and comprises an optical assembly having a camera and a lightsource for imaging a predetermined region of the platen encompassing the platen-select area to define a platen-image; anda means for forming upon the preview display screen a frame-image for indicating the platen-select area, the means for forming the frame image further being coupled to the image acquisition device and the at least one control setting so that the frame image is adjustable in response to changes in the at least one control setting,wherein the image-processing system forms the platen-image upon the preview display screen simultaneously as the frame image is formed on the preview display screen, the frame image being superimposed on the platen-image, so that a user can determine before operating the apparatus whether the image to be transferred to the medium conforms with the user's expectations.