Image scanning apparatus, method, and system, control method thereof, storage medium, and external apparatus

This invention has as its object to provide an image scanning method which can reduce the load of user operation, and can improve operation efficiency. To achieve this object, a scanning driver is started, and then the current scanning mode is detected on the basis of the previous scanning mode.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an image scanning apparatus, method, and system, a control method thereof, a storage medium, and an external apparatus.

Conventionally, when image data drawn on an original (to be referred to as an “original image” hereinafter) is scanned by an image scanning apparatus with an original feed function, the image scanning apparatus is connected to an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer or the like. Then, the user operates the information processing apparatus to select a scanning mode, i.e., whether the original image is scanned in a preview mode or in a so-called main scanning mode. The image scanning apparatus scans the original image in the selected scanning mode.

More specifically, in a conventional image scanning system of this type, as shown in the flow chart inFIG. 6, the user starts a scanning driver (step S101), and then selects a scanning mode by pressing a main scan or preview button before he or she presses a start button (step S102→step S103→step S105or step S102→step S103→step S104→step S106). After the scanning mode is selected, the user presses the start button, and the system executes a predetermined scan in accordance with the selected scanning mode (main scan or preview mode) (step S102→step S107→step S109or step S102→step S107→step S108).

In this way, in the image scanning system, the scanning mode is designated before the start button is pressed, and the image scanning apparatus then scans an original image.

However, in the conventional image scanning system, when an original image is scanned using the image scanning apparatus, scans are normally made in a predetermined scan pattern, i.e., a scan in the preview mode and then that in the main scanning mode. However, the user must set the scanning mode for each scan, resulting in a heavy operation load on the user.

In a conventional original feed type image scanning apparatus (to be referred to as a sheet-feed scanner” hereinafter), an external switch provided to this image scanning apparatus is used for starting an image scan when the image scanning apparatus does not scan an image, and is used for stopping an image scan during the image scan. An automatic document feeder equipped to a copying machine or the like normally automatically exhausts an original from the feeder when an image scan is stopped.

However, a sheet-feed scanner of this type has a relatively low original feed speed. When an original is inserted with a skew, if that original is automatically exhausted, it may jam (so-called “paper jam”). For this reason, original feeding is stopped when the user stops an image scan, and the user must manually remove the original from the image scanning apparatus.

With this arrangement, when the user stops an image scan, the original is not fed and is left in the image scanning apparatus. The user must remove that original from the image scanning apparatus.

In such original image scanning apparatus, the external switch is used for starting or stopping an original scan. Hence, when the functions of a plurality of image scanning apparatuses are started by corresponding external switches, a plurality of external switches are required.

In a conventional image scanning apparatus which scans information on an original using an image sensor, and converts it into an electrical image signal, when the user wants to see a preview image of the original, he or she must connect the image scanning apparatus to an external apparatus, start image scanning software of that external apparatus, and see the preview image in that software.

More specifically, when the user wants to confirm the original, he or she must connect the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus, start image scanning software in the external apparatus, and see a preview image in that software, resulting in cumbersome procedure.

In such image scanning apparatus, when the user wants to disconnect the image scanning apparatus from the external apparatus upon completion of an image scan, the user must disconnect the image scanning apparatus from the external apparatus after he or she ends the image scanning software running on the external apparatus.

More specifically, when the user wants to scan an image, he or she must connect the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus, and start image scanning software on the external apparatus to scan an image. On the other hand, when the user wants to disconnect the image scanning apparatus from the external apparatus upon completion of the image scanning apparatus, he or she must end the image scanning software that is running on the external apparatus, and then disconnect the image scanning apparatus from the external apparatus, resulting in troublesome procedure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been made in consideration of the conventional problems, and has as its object to provide an image scanning system and method, which can improve operation efficiency by reducing the operation load on the user, and can increase the degree of freedom in setting the scanning mode by the user.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an image scanning apparatus which automatically discharges an original from the apparatus when an image scan is stopped, thus obviating the need for manually removing an original from the image scanning apparatus.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide an image scanning apparatus which can use a single external switch not only as a trigger for starting an original scan but also as a trigger for executing another function.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide an image scanning system, its control method, external apparatus, and storage medium, which allow easy confirmation of an image in an image reading apparatus.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide an image scanning system, its control method, external apparatus, and storage medium, which can easily start and end an object scan in an image scanning apparatus.

In order to solve the aforementioned problems and to achieve the objects, an image scanning system according to the present invention is characterized by comprising the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided an image scanning system which comprises image scanning means for scanning image data on an original on the basis of a predetermined scanning mode while feeding an original, and display means for displaying the image data scanned by the image scanning means, comprising: storage means for storing the scanning mode used by the image scanning means; and scanning mode determination means for determining a scanning mode upon next scan on the basis of the scanning mode stored in the storage means.

An image scanning method according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided an image scanning method which includes the scanning mode designation step of selecting and designating a scanning mode of image data drawn on an original from a plurality of scanning modes, the image scanning step of scanning the image data on the basis of the designated scanning mode while feeding the original, and the display step of displaying the image data scanned in the image scanning step, comprising: the scanning mode determination step of storing the scanned mode used in the image scanning step, and determining a scanning mode upon next scan on the basis of the stored scanning mode.

A storage medium according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided a storage medium that stores a control program for controlling an image scanning apparatus, the control program having: a code of the scanning mode designation step of selecting and designating a scanning mode of image data drawn on an original from a plurality of scanning modes; a code of the image scanning step of scanning the image data on the basis of the designated scanning mode while feeding the original; a code of the display step of displaying the image data scanned in the image scanning step; and a code of the step of storing the scanned mode used in the image scanning step, and determining a scanning mode upon next scan on the basis of the stored scanning mode.

An image scanning apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, means for detecting if the original is placed, and switch detection means for starting or stopping a scan of the original, wherein the scan of the original is started by the switch detection means, the scan of the original is stopped by the switch detection means during the scan of the original, and the original is automatically fed in a forward direction by the switch detection means again in that state.

A method of controlling an image scanning apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided a method of controlling an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, means for detecting if the original is placed, and switch detection means for starting or stopping a scan of the original, comprising: the step of starting the scan of the original by the switch detection means; the step of stopping the scan of the original by the switch detection means during the scan of the original; and the step of automatically feeding the original in a forward direction by the switch detection means again in that state.

A storage medium according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its second aspect.

That is, there is provided a storage medium that stores a control program for controlling an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, means for detecting if the original is placed, and switch detection means for starting or stopping a scan of the original, the control program having: a code of the step of starting the scan of the original by the switch detection means; a code of the step of stopping the scan of the original by the switch detection means during the scan of the original; and a code of the step of automatically feeding the original in a forward direction by the switch detection means again in that state.

An image scanning apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its second aspect.

That is, there is provided an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, and a switch for starting a scan of the original, wherein the number of times the switch is pressed per unit time is detected.

An image scanning apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its third aspect.

That is, there is provided an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, and a switch for starting a scan of the original, wherein time intervals between adjacent ones of a plurality of times of depression of the switch, i.e., between first and second depressions of the switch, between second and third depressions of the switch, . . . , are measured, and a function of the original image scanning apparatus is changed depending on the measured time interval to execute the scan of the original.

A method of controlling an image scanning apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its second aspect.

That is, there is provided a method of controlling an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, and a switch for starting a scan of the original, comprising: the step of detecting the number of times the switch is pressed per unit time.

A method of controlling an image scanning apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its third aspect.

That is, there is provided a method of controlling an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, and a switch for starting a scan of the original, comprising: the step of measuring time intervals between adjacent ones of a plurality of times of depression of the switch, i.e., between first and second depressions of the switch, between second and third depressions of the switch, . . . , and changing a function of the original image scanning apparatus depending on the measured time interval to execute the scan of the original.

A storage medium according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its third aspect.

That is, there is provided a storage medium that stores a control program for controlling an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, and a switch for starting a scan of the original, the control program having: a code of the step of detecting the number of times the switch is pressed per unit time.

A storage medium according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its fourth aspect.

That is, there is provided a storage medium that stores a control program for controlling an original image scanning apparatus which has an image sensor for converting a scanned original image into an electrical image signal, an A/D converter for converting the image signal into a digital signal, means for transferring the digital image signal to an external apparatus, and a switch for starting a scan of the original, the control program having: a code of the step of measuring time intervals between adjacent ones of a plurality of times of depression of the switch, i.e., between first and second depressions of the switch, between second and third depressions of the switch, . . . , and changing a function of the original image scanning apparatus depending on the measured time interval to execute the scan of the original.

An image reading system according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its second aspect.

That is, there is provided an image scanning system comprising: an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit; and an external apparatus for controlling the image scanning apparatus, and displaying the image signal output from the image scanning apparatus, wherein the external apparatus comprises connection means for connecting the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus, detection means for detecting if the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus by the connection means, and control means for starting software for controlling the image scanning apparatus on the basis of a detection signal from the detection means.

A method of controlling an image reading system according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided a method of controlling an image scanning system which comprises an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit, and an external apparatus for controlling the image scanning apparatus, and displaying the image signal output from the image scanning apparatus, comprising: the detection step of detecting if the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus; and the start step of starting software for controlling the image scanning apparatus on the basis of a detection result in the detection step.

A storage medium according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its fifth aspect.

That is, there is provided a storage medium that stores a control program for controlling an image scanning system which comprises an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit, and an external apparatus for controlling the image scanning apparatus, and displaying the image signal output from the image scanning apparatus, the control program having: a code of the detection step of detecting if the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus; and a code of the start step of starting software for controlling the image scanning apparatus on the basis of a detection result in the detection step.

An external apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its first aspect.

That is, there is provided an external apparatus which is connected to an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit, and controls the image scanning apparatus, comprising: connection means for connecting the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus; detection means for detecting if the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus by the connection means; and control means for starting software for controlling the image scanning apparatus on the basis of a detection signal from the detection means.

An image scanning system according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its third aspect.

That is, there is provided an image scanning system comprising: an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit; and an external apparatus for controlling the image scanning apparatus, and displaying the image signal output from the image scanning apparatus, wherein the external apparatus comprises connection means for connecting the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus, detection means for detecting whether or not the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus by the connection means, and control means for controlling whether software for controlling the image scanning apparatus is started or quitted on the basis of a detection signal from the detection means.

A method of controlling an image scanning system according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its second aspect.

That is, there is provided a method of controlling an image scanning system which comprises an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit, and an external apparatus for controlling the image scanning apparatus, and displaying the image signal output from the image scanning apparatus, comprising: the detection step of detecting whether or not the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus by the connection means; and the setting step of setting whether software for controlling the image scanning apparatus in the external apparatus is started or quitted on the basis of a detection result in the detection step.

A storage medium according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its sixth aspect.

That is, there is provided a storage medium that stores a control program for controlling an image scanning system which comprises an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and outputting an electrical image signal to an external unit, and an external apparatus for controlling the image scanning apparatus, and displaying the image signal output from the image scanning apparatus, the control program comprising: a code of the detection step of detecting whether or not the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus by the connection means; and a code of the setting step of setting whether software for controlling the image scanning apparatus in the external apparatus is started or quitted on the basis of a detection result in the detection step.

An external apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by the following arrangement according to its second aspect.

That is, there is provided an external apparatus which is connected to an image scanning apparatus for scanning information on an object using an image sensor, and externally outputting an electrical image signal, and controls the image scanning apparatus, comprising: connection means for connecting the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus; detection means for detecting whether or not the image scanning apparatus is connected to the external apparatus by the connection means; and control means for controlling whether software for controlling the image scanning apparatus is started or quitted on the basis of a detection signal from the detection means.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1is a view showing the arrangement of an image scanning system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The image scanning system is constructed by connecting an image scanning apparatus with an original feed function (to be referred to as a “sheet-feed scanner” hereinafter)1, and a personal computer2having a window environment for controlling the sheet-feed scanner1via a connection cable3.

The personal computer2is constituted by a personal computer main body4, a display unit6comprising a display screen5such as a color monitor or the like, a keyboard7used by the user to input various commands, and a pointing device (mouse)8for, e.g., designating an object displayed on the display screen5.

As shown inFIG. 2, the display unit6has scanning mode setting buttons9at appropriate positions outside the display screen5. The scanning mode setting buttons9have a preview button9aand main scan button9b. Upon pressing the preview button9a, a desired portion to be scanned in an original image is preview-displayed on the display screen5. Upon pressing the main scan button9b, the preview-displayed image data is scanned.

As shown inFIG. 3, the sheet-feed scanner1comprises an image scanner (not shown) for scanning an original image, an insertion port10for inserting an original, and a start button11for instructing to start feeding of the inserted original. Upon pressing the start button11, the original inserted into the insertion port10is fed into the sheet-feed scanner, and a desired original image is scanned by the internal image scanner of the sheet-feed scanner1. The scanned original image is displayed on the display screen5of the display unit6.

FIG. 4is a block diagram showing principal part of a control system of the image scanning system. The personal computer main body4has a scanning driver12that interfaces with the keyboard7, and a low-level driver13that interfaces with the sheet-feed scanner1. The scanning driver12comprises a storage means for storing a scanning mode upon scanning by the sheet-feed scanner1, and a scanning mode determination means for determining the next scanning mode on the basis of the contents of the storage means.

FIG. 5is a flow chart showing the scanning sequence of an image scanning method of the first embodiment.

The user operates the keyboard7to start the scanning driver12in step S1, and then sets a scanning mode in step S2. In this embodiment, if the previous scanning mode is the preview mode, the scanning mode is automatically switched to the main scanning mode; if the previous scanning mode is the main scanning mode, the scanning mode is automatically switched to the preview mode. More specifically, of the scanning mode setting buttons9(FIG. 2), a button corresponding to a scanning mode different from the previous scanning mode is activated by the scanning driver12.

It is then checked in step S3if the user has pressed the start button11. If it is determined that the user has pressed the start button11, the flow advances to step S4to check if the main scanning mode is set. If NO in step S4, i.e., if the current scanning mode is the preview mode in step S2since the previous scanning mode is the main scanning mode, an image scan is executed in the preview mode (step S5), and the flow then advances to step S7. On the other hand, if YES in step S4, i.e., if the current scanning mode is the main scanning mode in step S2since the previous scanning mode is the preview mode, an image scan is executed in the main scan mode (step S6), and the flow advances to step S7.

In step S7, the currently executed scanning mode (preview or main scanning mode) is stored in the scanning driver12, thus ending the process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3that the start button11is not pressed, the flow advances to step S8to check if the user has pressed the main scanning button9b. If YES in step S8, the main scanning mode is set (step S9), and the flow returns to step S3.

On the other hand, if NO in step S8, the flow advances to step S10to check if the user has pressed the preview button9a. If NO in step S10, the flow returns to step S3; if YES in step S10, the preview mode is set (step S11), and the flow then returns to step S3.

As described above, in this embodiment, the current scanning mode is stored, and the next scanning mode is automatically determined on the basis of that current scanning mode. Hence, the user need not set the scanning mode for each scan, thus improving operation efficiency. When the user makes scans not in a predetermined pattern, he or she can automatically set the scanning mode, thus improving convenience on the side of the operator.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, in the scanning mode setting step (step S2), the preview and main scanning modes are alternately set. However, the scanning driver12may inhibit the scanning mode from being changed. Also, the setups may be preferably changed to repeat the preview or main scanning mode a plurality of number of times.

As described in detail above, according to the first embodiment, when the user makes scans not in a predetermined pattern, he or she can freely set the scanning mode, while the current scanning mode is stored, and the next scanning mode is determined based on the current scanning mode. Hence, the user need not set the scanning mode for each scan, thus improving operation efficiency.

FIG. 7shows the internal arrangement of an original image scanning apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 7, reference numeral30denotes an image scanning apparatus for scanning an image by feeding an original. Reference numeral21denotes a contact image sensor (to be referred to as a CIS hereinafter), which comprises a photodiode22, SELFOC lens23, LED array24, and contact glass25. Feed rollers26are placed in front of and behind the CIS21, and move an original relative to the CIS21. A contact sheet27is used for making an original contact the CIS21.

An original detection lever28is used for detecting insertion of an original. Upon insertion of an original, the original detection lever28tilts to change an output signal from an original detection sensor29. This output signal is supplied to a CPU215shown inFIG. 8to determine insertion of the original. If it is determined that an original has been inserted, a driving motor (not shown) for rotating the feed rollers26to start original feeding, and to scan the original.

FIG. 8is a block diagram showing the arrangement of a control circuit in this embodiment.

The circuit operation of this embodiment will be explained below with reference toFIG. 8.

Referring toFIG. 8, reference numeral21denotes the CIS that has already been explained, and is also integrated with the LED array24serving as a light source. While an original placed on the contact glass25of the CIS21is fed, an LED control circuit203selectively turns on the respective color LEDs in units of lines, thus scanning R, G, and B line-sequential color images.

An AMP204is an amplifier for amplifying a signal output from the CIS21. Reference numeral205denotes an A/D converter for A/D-converting the amplified output to output, e.g., an 8-bit digital signal.

A shading RAM206stores shading correction data obtained by scanning a calibration sheet in advance, and a shading correction circuit207performs shading correction of the scanned image signal on the basis of the data stored in the shading RAM206. A peak detection circuit208detects peak values in the scanned image data in units of lines, and is used for detecting the leading end of an original.

A gamma conversion circuit209performs gamma conversion of the scanned image data in accordance with a gamma curve set in advance by a host computer (in this case, an external apparatus213).

A buffer RAM210temporarily stores image data to adjust the actual scanning timing to the communication timing with the host computer. A packing/buffer RAM control circuit211executes a process for packing data in accordance with an image output mode (binary, 4-bit multi-valued, 8-bit multi-valued, 24-bit multi-valued) set in advance by the host computer, and writing the packed data in the buffer RAM210, and a process for reading out image data from the buffer RAM210and outputting that data to an interface circuit212.

The interface circuit212exchanges control signals and outputs an image signal with the external apparatus213such as a personal computer or the like, which serves as a host apparatus of the image scanning apparatus30.

Reference numeral215denotes the CPU in the form of, e.g., a microcomputer, which has a ROM215A storing the processing sequence, and a work RAM215B. The CPU215controls the respective units in accordance with the sequence stored in the ROM215A. External switch information is input to the CPU215as a start/stop signal. The CPU215detects the number of input start/stop signals per unit time.

Reference numeral216denotes, e.g., a quartz oscillator; and214, a timing signal generation circuit for generating various timing signals that serve as references for operations by frequency-dividing the oscillator216in accordance with the setups of the CPU215.

The processing sequence of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flow chart shown inFIG. 9.

After power ON, if the image scanning apparatus30detects insertion of an original upon ON of the original detection sensor29in step S21, the flow advances to step S22and the control waits until the start/stop switch (to be referred to as an “S/S switch” hereinafter) is pressed.

If it is detected in step S22that the S/S switch has been pressed, the flow advances to step S23, and the motor is driven to feed the original, so as to start an original scan. If it is detected in step S24that the S/S switch has been pressed during the original can, the flow advances to step S25; otherwise, the operation ends after completion of the original image scan.

In step S25, the original scan is stopped, and the motor is stopped, thus interrupting original feeding. If it is detected in step S26that the S/S switch has been pressed, the flow advances to step S27to discharge the original. At this time, the motor is driven in the forward direction. After the original has been discharged, this control operation ends.

In the second embodiment, when the S/S switch has been pressed while the image scan is stopped, the motor is driven to discharge an original in the forward direction. In the third embodiment, however, the motor is driven in the reverse direction to discharge an original in the reverse direction.

When an original has skewed, if the motor is driven in the forward direction to discharge the original, paper jam may take place. However, when the motor is driven in the reverse direction to discharge an original, paper jam can be prevented.

When the CIS21reads the end of an original, and detects that the end position has shifted either to the right or left in the main scanning direction, it is determined that the original has skewed, and a skew detection signal is input to the CPU215(FIG. 8). In the operation sequence flow chart (FIG. 10) of this embodiment, steps S21to S26are the same as those inFIG. 9of the second embodiment. It is checked based on the skew detection signal in step S37inFIG. 10if an original has skewed. If YES in step S37, the flow advances to step S38; otherwise, the flow advances to step S39. In step S38, since the original has skewed, the motor is driven in the reverse direction to discharge the original. In step S39, since the original has not skewed, the motor is driven in the forward direction to discharge the original.

To restate, according to the second and third embodiments, since an original can be automatically discharged from the original scanning apparatus using the external switch provided to the image scanning apparatus upon stopping an image scan, the user need not manually remove the original from the image scanning apparatus.

In the fourth embodiment, the arrangement of an original image scanning apparatus is the same as that in the second embodiment shown inFIG. 7, and the block diagram that shows the electrical arrangement of a control circuit is also the same as that in the second embodiment shown inFIG. 8, except for operations. Hence, only different operations will be explained below.

The operation sequence of this embodiment will be explained below with reference to the flow chart inFIG. 11.

After power ON in step S41, the original image scanning apparatus30executes initialization in step S42to complete preparation for image scans, and waits until the start/stop switch is pressed.

In step S43, the number of times the start/stop switch has been pressed is counted. If the start/stop switch has been pressed once, the flow advances to step S44to start an original scan.

If the start/stop switch has been pressed twice, the flow advances to step S45to execute white shading.

If the start/stop switch has been pressed three times, the flow advances to step S46to execute black shading.

Upon completion of step S44, S45, or S46, the flow returns to step S43to wait until the start/stop switch is pressed again.

In the fifth embodiment, in addition to operation for changing and executing the function of the original image scanning apparatus30depending on the number of times the start/stop switch is pressed like the fourth embodiment, the time interval between depressions of the start/stop switch is measured, and the function of the image scanning apparatus is also changed depending on the measured time interval.

FIG. 12is a flow chart showing the processing sequence of this embodiment. After power ON in step S51, the original image scanning apparatus30shown inFIG. 7performs initialization in step S52to complete preparation for image scans, and waits until the start/stop switch is pressed.

In step S53, the number of times the start/stop switch has been pressed is counted. If the start/stop switch has been pressed once, the flow advances to step S54to start an original scan.

If the start/stop switch has been pressed twice, the flow advances to step S55to measure the time interval between depressions of the start/stop switches. If the time interval is less than 30 ms, the flow advances to step S56to execute white shading. On the other hand, if the time interval is equal to or longer than 30 ms, the flow advances to step S57to execute black shading.

Upon completion of step S54,56, or S57, the flow returns to step S53to wait until the start/stop switch is pressed.

According to this control, when the number of times the start/stop switch is pressed is small, more functions of the original image scanning apparatus can be executed.

To recapitulate, according to the fourth and fifth embodiments, the function of the original image scanning apparatus can be changed depending on the number of times the external switch is pressed per unit time, and the depression time interval, and a plurality of functions of the image scanning apparatus can be executed by the single external switch.

In the sixth embodiment, since the arrangement of an image scanning apparatus is the same as that in the second embodiment shown inFIG. 7, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 13is a block diagram showing the arrangement of a control circuit in this embodiment.

The circuit operation of this embodiment will be explained below with the aid ofFIG. 13.

Referring toFIG. 13, reference numeral21denotes the already explained CIS, which is also integrated with the LED array24serving as a light source. While an original placed on the contact glass25of the CIS21is fed, an LED control circuit203selectively turns on the respective color LEDs in units of lines, thus scanning R, G, and B line-sequential color images.

An AMP304is an amplifier for amplifying a signal output from the CIS21. Reference numeral305denotes an A/D converter for A/D-converting the amplified output to output, e.g., an 8-bit digital signal.

A shading RAM306stores shading correction data obtained by scanning a calibration sheet in advance, and a shading correction circuit307performs shading correction of the scanned image signal on the basis of the data stored in the shading RAM306. A peak detection circuit308detects peak values in the scanned image data in units of lines, and is used for detecting the leading end of an original.

A gamma conversion circuit309performs gamma conversion of the scanned image data in accordance with a gamma curve set in advance by a host computer (in this case, an external apparatus313).

A buffer RAM310temporarily stores image data to adjust the actual scanning timing to the communication timing with the host computer. A packing/buffer RAM control circuit311executes a process for packing data in accordance with an image output mode (binary, 4-bit multi-valued, 8-bit multi-valued, 24-bit multi-valued) set in advance by the host computer, and writing the packed data in the buffer RAM310, and a process for reading out image data from the buffer RAM310and outputting that data to an interface circuit312.

The interface circuit312exchanges control signals and outputs an image signal with the external apparatus313such as a personal computer or the like, which serves as a host apparatus of the image scanning apparatus30.

A connector320connects the image scanning apparatus30and external apparatus313, and comprises a detector321which detects whether the image scanning apparatus30is connected to the external apparatus313or disconnected therefrom, on the basis of, e.g., changes in resistance, current, voltage, or the like, periodic communications, detection by means of a photocoupler, or the like, and outputting a connection state detection signal322.

When the external apparatus313detects based on the connection state detection signal322that the image scanning apparatus is connected, its controller324automatically starts image scanning software while power is kept ON, and outputs an image scan control signal to the image scanning apparatus30. In response to this signal, the image scanning apparatus30feeds and scans an original, and outputs an image signal to the external apparatus313. The external apparatus313receives that image signal.

Reference numeral315denotes a CPU in the form of, e.g., a microcomputer, which has a ROM315A storing the processing sequence, and a work RAM315B. The CPU315controls the respective units in accordance with the sequence stored in the ROM315A.

Reference numeral316denotes, e.g., a quartz oscillator; and314, a timing signal generation circuit for generating various timing signals that serve as references for operations by frequency-dividing the oscillator316in accordance with the setups of the CPU315.

A method of controlling the image scanning apparatus of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flow chart shown inFIG. 14.

After power ON, if the external apparatus313detects in step S61that the image scanning apparatus30is connected, the flow advances to step S62to start image scanning software. In step S63, the image scanning apparatus30checks the presence/absence of an original. If an original is detected, the flow advances to step S64to start an original scan. In step S65, the external apparatus313displays image data sent from the image scanning apparatus30on its display.

In the sixth embodiment, an image scanning apparatus that feeds an original (sheet-feed type) has been exemplified. In the seventh embodiment, an image scanning apparatus which scans an image without feeding an original (flat-bed type) will be described.

FIG. 15shows the internal arrangement of an image scanning apparatus according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 15, reference numeral50denotes a flat-bed type image scanning apparatus, which is composed of a CIS41, a guide shaft42serving as a guide for moving the CIS41in the directions of a double-headed arrow A, a motor43serving as a driving source for moving the CIS41in the directions of the double-headed arrow A, a glass plate44for placing an original45, and a pressure plate46for pressing the original45against the glass plate44. When the original45is placed on the glass plate44and the CIS41is scanned in the directions of the double-headed arrow A to start a scan, information on the original45can be read.

Note that the arrangement of a control circuit is the same as that in the sixth embodiment shown inFIG. 13, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

A method of controlling the image scanning apparatus of this embodiment will be explained below with reference to the flow chart shown inFIG. 16.

After power ON, if the external apparatus313detects in step S71that the image scanning apparatus50is connected, the flow advances to step S72to start image scanning software. In step S73, the image scanning apparatus50checks the presence/absence of the original45by moving the CIS41in the directions of the double-headed arrow A by the motor43. If the original is detected (YES in step S74), the flow advances to step S75to start a scan of the original45. In step S76, the external apparatus313displays image data sent from the image scanning apparatus50on its display.

In the sixth and seventh embodiments, an image scanner has been exemplified as an image scanning apparatus. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to other image scanning apparatuses such as a video camera, digital camera, and the like.

As described above, according to the sixth and seventh embodiments, when the user connects the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus, image scanning software is started on the external apparatus, and the user can easily see a preview image. In this way, an original image can be confirmed without any complicated procedure.

In the eighth embodiment, the arrangements of an image scanning apparatus and its control circuit are the same as those in the sixth embodiment described above, except for operations. Hence, only different operations will be explained below.

FIG. 17is a flow chart showing the control operation of the image scanning apparatus of this embodiment.

A method of controlling the image scanning apparatus of this embodiment will be explained below with reference to the flow chart shown inFIG. 17.

After power ON, if the external apparatus313detects in step S81that the image scanning apparatus30is connected, the flow advances to step S82to start image scanning software. In step S83, the image scanning apparatus30performs an image scan, and the like until it is disconnected from the external apparatus313. If the image scanning apparatus30is disconnected from the external apparatus313, the flow advances to step S84to automatically quit image scanning software.

In the eighth embodiment, an image scanning apparatus that feeds an original (sheet-feed type) has been exemplified. In the ninth embodiment, an image scanning apparatus which scans an image without feeding an original (flat-bed type) will be described.

Note that the arrangement of the flat-bed type image scanning apparatus in this embodiment is the same as that in the seventh embodiment shown inFIG. 15, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Also, since the arrangement of a control circuit is the same as that in the sixth embodiment shown inFIG. 13, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

A method of controlling the image scanning apparatus of this embodiment will be explained below with reference to the flow chart shown inFIG. 17.

After power ON, if the external apparatus313detects in step S81that the image scanning apparatus50is connected, the flow advances to step S82to start image scanning software. In step S83, the image scanning apparatus50performs an image scan, and the like until it is disconnected from the external apparatus313. If the image scanning apparatus50is disconnected from the external apparatus313, the flow advances to step S84to automatically quit image scanning software.

In the eighth and ninth embodiments, an image scanner has been exemplified as an image scanning apparatus. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to other image scanning apparatuses such as a video camera, digital camera, and the like.

To restate, according to the eighth and ninth embodiments, when the user connects the image scanning apparatus to the external apparatus, image scanning software is started on the external apparatus, and an image can be easily scanned. When the user wants to disconnect the image scanning apparatus from the external apparatus upon completion of the image scan, he or she need only disconnect the image scanning apparatus from the external apparatus, and the image scanning software automatically quits, thus easily ending the image scan. In this way, an original scan can be easily started and ended without any complicated procedure.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

The objects of the present invention are also achieved by supplying a storage medium, which records a program code of a software program that can realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments to the system or apparatus, and reading out and executing the program code stored in the storage medium by a computer (or a CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus.

In this case, the program code itself read out from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments, and the storage medium which stores the program code constitutes the present invention.

As the storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, and the like may be used.

The functions of the above-mentioned embodiments may be realized not only by executing the readout program code by the computer but also by some or all of actual processing operations executed by an OS (operating system) running on the computer on the basis of an instruction of the program code.

Furthermore, the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments may be realized by some or all of actual processing operations executed by a CPU or the like arranged in a function extension board or a function extension unit, which is inserted in or connected to the computer, after the program code read out from the storage medium is written in a memory of the extension board or unit.