Patent ID: 6643037
Filing Date: 2003-11-04
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
In a scanner, including a transparent surface for supporting a page during a scanning operation, an apparatus for detecting if an area on said surface is covered by said page, comprising:an indicium configured to reflect light having wavelengths within a predetermined range; and an optical sensor for detecting said indicium when the sensor is in optical communication with said indicium; at least one optical filter for filtering light having wavelengths outside of the predetermined range; and wherein said indicium, sensor and filter are positioned so that an optical path exists from said sensor, passing through said area and the filter, to said indicium thereby placing said sensor in optical communication with said indicium provided said area is uncovered by said page; wherein said sensor is operative to generate a signal indicating said area is covered by said pane If said sensor falls to detect said indicium; and wherein said sensor is further used for scanning said nape.