INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE, IMAGE READING APPARATUS, IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM STORING PROGRAM, AND INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD

An information processing device includes a processor configured to: detect movement of a document placed on a document stand included in a device that reads the document by capturing an image of the document stand; and make a determination related to reading of the document based on the movement of the document on the document stand.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 USC 119 from Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-153323 filed Sep. 27, 2022.

BACKGROUND

(i) Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, an image reading apparatus, an image forming apparatus, a non-transitory computer readable medium storing a program, and an information processing method.

(ii) Related Art

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-268906 discloses a process that, upon detection of a scan error condition from scan data, adds a marker indicating necessity of re-scanning to the scan data based on a marker condition read from a marker condition storage.

SUMMARY

In general, when a document is read, various types of determinations are made, then processing related to the reading is performed.

Here, when a determination related to reading of a document is made based on an operation of a user on a receiving device that receives a user's operation, the operation of a user on the receiving device is required.

In this situation, the operability of a user is likely to reduce, as compared to when the operation of a user on a receiving device is not needed.

Aspects of non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an information processing device that improves the operability of a user who performs reading of a document, as compared to when a determination related to reading of a document is made based on the operation of a user on a receiving device that receives a user's operation.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing device including a processor configured to: detect movement of a document placed on a document stand included in a device that reads the document by capturing an image of the document stand; and make a determination related to reading of the document based on the movement of the document on the document stand.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a perspective view illustrating the entire configuration of an image reading apparatus1.

The image reading apparatus1of the exemplary embodiment is so-called a document camera.

The image reading apparatus1is provided with a document stand3on which a document G as a target image to be read is placed, and which supports the document G from below; a camera5as an example of an image capture device that captures the document G placed on the document stand3; and a display device7that displays information to a user. The image reading apparatus1is an apparatus that reads the document G by capturing the document stand3on which the document G is placed.

In addition, the image reading apparatus1is provided with an information processing device100that processes information related to capturing the document G. The information processing device100is coupled to the camera5, and the display device7through a communication line which is not illustrated. As described below, the information processing device100makes various determinations related to reading of the document G.

The camera5is disposed above the document stand3with a space therebetween. The camera5includes an image pickup device such as a charge coupled device (CCD), and captures an image of the document stand3located below. In the exemplary embodiment, the document stand3is within the angle of view of the camera5, which captures an image of the entirety of the document stand3.

The display device7is comprised of, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and displays information of which a user operating the image reading apparatus1is notified.

In the exemplary embodiment, the display device7is comprised of a so-called touch panel, and not only displays information, but also receives an operation of a user.

The document stand3is formed in a rectangular shape, and has four sides31. In the exemplary embodiment, as the four sides31, a front-side side311, a far-side side312, a right-side side313, and a left-side side314are provided.

When a user operates the image reading apparatus1, a user is positioned in front of the front-side side311. In other words, in the exemplary embodiment, a user is positioned on the opposite side to where the far-side side312is positioned across the front-side side311.

In the exemplary embodiment, an image of document G is automatically captured.

In the exemplary embodiment, when document G is placed on the document stand3, the information processing device100detects the document G based on an image obtained by the camera5.

Upon detection of the document G, the information processing device100operates the camera5to capture an image of the document stand3on which the document G is placed. Thus, the captured image of the document G is obtained. The captured image is a still image.

Note that capturing an image of the document G is not necessarily performed automatically, and may be performed according to instructions from a user.

FIG.2is a diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the information processing device100.

The information processing device100has an arithmetic processor11that executes digital arithmetic processing in accordance with a program; a secondary storage12that stores information such as a program; and a communication unit13that transmits and receives information to and from an external device.

The secondary storage12is implemented by existing information storage devices such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a semiconductor memory, and a magnetic tape, for example.

The arithmetic processor11is provided with a CPU11aas an example of a processor. In the exemplary embodiment, the CPU11aexecutes the processes described below.

In addition, the arithmetic processor11includes a RAM11bused as a work memory for the CPU11a, and a ROM11cthat stores programs executed by the CPU11a.

In addition, the arithmetic processor11includes a rewritable non-volatile memory11dthat can hold data even when power supply is off; and an interface unit11ethat controls the components of the communication unit13connected to the arithmetic processor11.

The non-volatile memory11dis comprised of, for example, a SRAM or a flash memory backed up by a battery.

In the exemplary embodiment, the arithmetic processor11reads programs stored in the secondary storage12or the ROM11cto execute the processes described below.

The arithmetic processor11, the secondary storage12, and the communication unit13are connected through a bus or a signal line.

The programs to be executed by the CPU11acan be provided to the information processing device100with each program recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a magnetic recording medium (such as a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk), an optical recording medium (such as an optical disk), a magneto optical recording medium, and a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the programs to be executed by the CPU11amay be provided to the information processing device100using a communication unit such as the Internet.

FIGS.3A,3Bare illustrations for explaining processes executed in the image reading apparatus1.

To read document G in the image reading apparatus1, first, as illustrated inFIG.3A, the document G is placed on the document stand3.

Next, capturing by the camera5(seeFIG.1) is performed, and an image obtained by capturing the document G is acquired.

In the exemplary embodiment, the entirety of the document stand3is captured by the camera5, and the captured image includes not only an image of the document G, but also an image of the document stand3.

Subsequently, the document G is removed from the document stand3by a user.

In the exemplary embodiment, for example, when the document G is moved in the left direction as illustrated by an arrow ofFIG.3A, and removed from the document stand3by a user, a determinate process is performed on the obtained captured image, specifically a process of saving the captured image in the secondary storage12(seeFIG.2) is performed.

In contrast, in the exemplary embodiment, for example, when the document G is moved in the right direction as illustrated by an arrow ofFIG.3B, and removed from the document stand3by a user, a process of discarding the obtained captured image is performed. In this situation, a process of saving the captured image in the secondary storage12is not performed.

In the exemplary embodiment, the CPU11amakes a determination related to reading of the document G in this manner based on the movement of the document G on the document stand3. More specifically, the CPU11amakes a determination related to reading of the document G based on the movement direction of the document G when moved along surface3a(seeFIG.1) of the document stand3.

The example illustrated inFIGS.3A,3Bexemplifies a case in which the CPU11amakes a determination related to handling of a result of reading of the document G based on the movement of the document G on the document stand3.

The CPU11adetects the movement of the document G on the document stand3based on an image obtained by capturing the document stand3with the camera5. The CPU11athen makes a determination related to handling of a result of reading of the document G based on the detected movement.

Specifically, as described above, when the document G is moved in the left direction, the CPU11acauses a determinate process to be performed on the obtained captured image, specifically a process of saving the captured image in the secondary storage12to be performed.

In other words, when the movement of the document G on the document stand3is a predetermined specific movement, the CPU11amakes a determination to store the captured image, which is an example of a result of reading, in the second storage12which is an example of an information storage.

In addition, when the document G is moved in the right direction, the CPU11amakes a determination to perform a process of discarding the obtained captured image.

In other words, when the movement of the document G on the document stand3is a predetermined specific movement, the CPU11amakes a determination to discard the captured image, which is an example of a result of reading.

The CPU11adetects the movement of the document G on the document stand3. The CPU11athen makes a determination related to reading of the document G based on the movement of the document G on the document stand3.

Here, “the determination related to reading of the document G” includes, for example, a determination (described later) related to reading condition for the document G, a determination related to saving or discarding the captured image obtained by reading the document G, and a determination (described later) related to output of the captured image obtained by reading the document G.

The CPU11aidentifies the movement direction of the document G on the document stand3based on the image obtained by the camera5. The CPU11athen makes a determination related to the captured image based on the identified movement direction.

Specifically, as described above, the CPU11amakes a determination based on the identified movement direction to perform a determinate process on the captured image or a process of discarding the captured image, for example.

FIGS.4A,4Bare illustrations for explaining other processes executed in the image reading apparatus1.

In also the process example illustrated inFIG.4A, as described above, first, as indicated by symbol4A, the document G is placed on the document stand3. Next, image capturing is performed by the camera5(seeFIG.1), and the captured image including an image of the document G and an image of the document stand3is obtained.

Subsequently, as indicated by arrow4B ofFIG.4A, the document G placed on the document stand3is rotated by a user.

In this situation, the CPU11adetects the rotation based on the image captured by the camera5. When detecting the rotation of the document G, the CPU11aoperates the camera5to re-capture the document G after the rotation.

FIG.4Bis an illustration for explaining another process executed in the image reading apparatus1.

In also the process example illustrated inFIG.4B, as described above, first, as indicated by symbol4D, the document G is placed on the document stand3. Next, image capturing is performed by the camera5, and the captured image including an image of the document G and an image of the document stand3is obtained.

Subsequently, as indicated by arrow4E ofFIG.4B, the document G placed on the document stand3is moved by a user.

In this situation, the CPU11adetects the movement based on the image captured by the camera5. When detecting the movement of the document G, the CPU11aoperates the camera5to re-capture the document G after the movement.

FIGS.5A to5Dare illustrations for explaining the flow of a series of processes executed in the image reading apparatus1. In each ofFIGS.5A to5D, a state of the display device7is illustrated in the upper section, and a state of the document stand3is illustrated in the lower section.

In the exemplary embodiment, when an image of the document G is captured, as described above, first, the document G is placed on the document stand3. In this example, first, document A (not illustrated) as an example of the document G is placed on the document stand3. Next, an image of the document A is captured. Thus, the captured image of the document A is obtained.

In this process example, the document A is moved in the left direction, then removed from the document stand3. Thus, a determinate process is performed on the document A as an example of the document G, that is, the captured image of the document A is saved.

In the exemplary embodiment, when the determinate process is performed on the document G, as indicated by symbol5A inFIG.5A, a correspondence image19is displayed on the display device7, the correspondence image19being an image corresponding to the captured image of the document G.

The correspondence image19is not particularly limited, and is, for example, a reduced image of the captured image of the document G. In other words, the correspondence image19is, for example, a thumbnail image of the captured image of the document G.

The correspondence image19is an image indicating that the captured image of the document G is already saved. After the above-mentioned determinate process is performed, the correspondence image19is displayed on the display device7.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, when the determinate process is performed on the document G, as indicated by symbol5B inFIG.5A, “Please place a document on the document stand” is displayed. In other words, when the determinate process is performed on the document G, notification is given to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3.

Note that here, a case has been described in which the notification is given when the determinate process is performed on the document G; however, in the exemplary embodiment, the notification is also given when a process of discarding the document G is performed.

Next, in this process example, as illustrated inFIG.5B, document B, which is an example of a new document G, is placed on the document stand3.

As described above, also in this situation, an image of the document B is captured. Thus, the captured image of the document B is obtained. As indicated by the symbol5B, the captured image of the document B is displayed on the display device7.

Furthermore, as indicated by symbol5C ofFIG.5B, display (hereinafter referred to as an “operation method display”) showing an operation method for the document B, and display (hereinafter referred to as a “process content display”) of the content of a process to be executed when the document B is operated are shown on the display device7.

In this process example, as the operation method display, and the process content display, display is provided which indicates that when the document G is moved to the left side and removed from the document stand3, a determinate process is performed.

In addition, in this process example, as the operation method display, and the process content display, display is provided which indicates that when the document G is moved to the right side and removed from the document stand3, a process of discarding the captured image is performed, and re-reading of the document G is performed.

Subsequently, in this process example, an operation for the document B is performed by a user. Specifically, in this process example, a user performs an operation of moving the document B indicated by symbol5D ofFIG.5Bto the left direction along the surface3aof the document stand3to remove the document B from the document stand3.

Thus, in this situation, a determinate process is performed on the captured image, specifically, the captured image of the document B is saved in the secondary storage12, and registered therein.

In this situation, as illustrated inFIG.5C, a correspondence image19corresponding to the document B is displayed. Furthermore, in this situation, as described above, the display indicated by symbol5G is provided on the display device7to give a notification to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3.

Subsequently, in this process example, as indicated by symbol5H ofFIG.5D, a new document C is placed on the document stand3by a user.

As described above, also in this situation, an image of the document C is captured. Thus, the captured image of the document C is obtained, and as indicated by symbol5J, the captured image is displayed on the display device7.

In addition, as described above, in this situation, as indicated by symbol5K, the operation method display for the document C, and the process content display for the document C are provided on the display device7.

Also, in this situation, as the operation method display, and the process content display, display is provided which indicates that when the document G is moved to the left side and removed from the document stand3, a determinate process is performed.

Also, in this situation, as the operation method display, and the process content display, display is provided which indicates that when the document G is moved to the right side and removed from the document stand3, a process of discarding the captured image is performed, and re-reading of the document G is performed.

Subsequently, an operation for the document C is performed by a user.

When the document C is moved in the left direction, and removed from the document stand3by a user, as described above, a determinate process is performed on the captured image of the document C.

In addition, when the document C is moved in the right direction, and removed from the document stand3by a user, a process of discarding the captured image of the document C is performed.

Also, in this process, as described above, first, an image of the document A is captured.

Thus, the captured image of the document A is obtained. Also, as described above, as illustrated inFIG.6A, a correspondence image19, which is an image corresponding to the captured image of the document A, is displayed on the display device7.

Next, also in this process example, as indicated by symbol6D ofFIG.6B, document B is placed on the document stand3.

As described above, also in this situation, an image of the document B is captured. Thus, the captured image of the document B is obtained. As indicated by symbol6A ofFIG.6B, the captured image is displayed on the display device7. Furthermore, as described above, as indicated by symbol6C ofFIG.6B, the operation method display for the document B, and the process content display for the document B are provided on the display device7.

Subsequently, an operation for the document B is performed by a user. Specifically, in this process example, a user moves the document B (see symbol6D ofFIG.6B) in the right direction along the surface3aof the document stand3, and removes the document B from the document stand3.

Thus, in this situation, the captured image of the document B is discarded. In this situation, as illustrated inFIG.6C, no correspondence image19corresponding to the document B is displayed on the display device7.

When the document B is removed from the document stand3, as described above, as illustrated inFIG.6C, a notification is given on the display device7to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3.

Accordingly, in this process example, as indicated by symbol6E ofFIG.6D, the document B is placed again on the document stand3by a user.

In this situation, an image of the document B is captured again. Thus, the captured image of the document B is obtained again.

When the captured image is obtained, as described above, as indicated by symbol6F, the captured image is displayed on the display device7, and the operation method display for the document B, and the process content display for the document B are further provided on the display device7.

Subsequently, an operation for the document B is performed by a user.

In this situation, when the document B is moved in the left direction, and removed from the document stand3by a user, a determinate process is performed.

In addition, when the document B is moved in the right direction, and removed from the document stand3by a user, a process of discarding the captured image of the document B is performed.

FIG.7is a flowchart illustrating the details of the processes explained inFIGS.5A to5DandFIGS.6A to6Dwhen they are executed.

In the exemplary embodiment, a user first sets a condition for image capturing (step S101). Specifically, a user performs, for example, an operation for the display device7to set a condition for image capturing.

Next, a user places the document G on the document stand3(step S102).

The CPU11athen detects the document G placed on the document stand3based on an image captured by the camera5(step S103). Upon detection of the document G, the CPU11aoperates the camera5to capture an image of the document stand3on which the document G is placed (step S104). Thus, the captured image including both the document G and the document stand3is obtained.

Subsequently, the CPU11aextract and obtains a portion of the captured image, the portion (hereinafter referred to as a “document image”) where the document G is scanned (step S105).

The CPU11athen causes the display device7to display the document image (step S106). At this point, the CPU11aperforms a process of displaying the above-mentioned operation method display and process content display. Thus, the display device7performs the display illustrated inFIG.5BandFIG.6B.

Subsequently, a user refers to the display device7to check the document image (step S107).

Then, the CPU11adetermines whether the document G has been removed from the document stand3(step S108). Specifically, the CPU11aanalyzes the image obtained by the camera5, and determines whether the document G has been removed from the document stand3.

When determining that the document G has been removed, the CPU11aidentifies the movement direction of the document G (step S109).

When determining that the movement direction of the document G is the left direction, the CPU11aperforms the above-described determinate process (step S110). Specifically, in this situation, the CPU11aperforms a process of saving a captured image in the secondary storage12. Furthermore, in this situation, the CPU11adisplays a correspondence image19corresponding to the document G on the display device7.

Subsequently, the CPU11adisplays guidance on the display device7to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3(step S111). In other words, as described above, the CPU11aprovides a notification to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3.

Thus, the display on the display device7is as illustrated inFIG.5C, for example.

In contrast, when identifying that the movement direction of the document G is the right direction, the CPU11aperforms a process of discarding the captured image (step S112). Subsequently, also in this situation, the CPU11adisplays guidance on the display device7to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3(step S113).

Thus, in this situation, the display on the display device7is as illustrated inFIG.6C, for example.

Note that in the exemplary embodiment, in the process of step S113, a notification is provided to prompt a user to set a new document G; however, the content of notification is not limited to this. Alternatively, for example, guidance may be displayed on the display device7to prompt a user to place the original document G for the discarded captured image on the document stand3again.

In contrast, in step S108, when it is determined that the document G has not been removed from the document stand3, the flow proceeds to step S114.

In the process of step S114, a user selects a selection item “No subsequent document” displayed on the display device7.

Although a description has been omitted above, in the exemplary embodiment, each time a document is read, the selection item “No subsequent document” is displayed on the display device7. In other words, in the exemplary embodiment, each time an image of a new document is captured by the camera5, the selection item “No subsequent document” is displayed on the display device7.

When a user selects the selection item, the CPU11adetermines that the reading job is completed, and performs a process of saving the captured images obtained so far.

This process example exemplifies a case in which in the process of step S114, a user selects the selection item, “No subsequent document” displayed on the display device7.

In the exemplary embodiment, when a user selects the selection item, “No subsequent document”, the flow proceeds to step S115. In the process of step S115, a process of saving the captured images obtained so far as one file is performed.

In the exemplary embodiment, when a first document G is read, a reading job is started. For multiple documents G, with the reading job started, the documents G are successively set on the document stand3, and the documents G are read sequentially.

For example, when a user provides instructions “No subsequent document”, the CPU11adetermines that the last document has been read, and completes the reading job. Furthermore, in this situation, the CPU11agenerates a file consisting of multiple captured images obtained by reading the multiple documents G.

In the exemplary embodiment, for example, when a user provides instructions “No subsequent document”, the CPU11adetermines that the most recently read document is the last document.

The CPU11agenerates a file consisting of the captured images obtained by capturing all documents G from the first document G to the last document G.

Also, in this process example, first, as described above, an image of the document A is captured. Thus, also in this process example, as indicated by symbol8A ofFIG.8A, a correspondence image19corresponding to the document A is displayed on the display device7.

Subsequently, in this process example, as illustrated inFIG.8B, the document B is placed on the document stand3, and an image of the document B is captured.

Thus, as described above, as indicated by symbol8B, the captured image of the document B is displayed on the display device7. Furthermore, as described above, the operation method display for the document B, and the process content display for the document B are provided on the display device7.

In this process example, as the operation method display and the process content display, display is provided which indicates that when the document G is moved to the left side and removed from the document stand3, a determinate process is performed on the captured image.

Also, in this process example, as the operation method display and the process content display, display is provided which indicates that when the document G is reset, the document G is read again.

Subsequently, in this process example, as illustrated inFIG.8C, the document B is reset on the document stand by a user.

Specifically, in this process example, as illustrated inFIGS.8B,8C, the document B is rotated around a rotational axis and reset by a user, the rotational axis being a line (not illustrated) perpendicular to the surface3aof the document stand3.

Accordingly, in this process example, an image of the document G after reset is captured. As indicated by symbol8E ofFIG.8C, the captured image of the reset document B is displayed on the display device7.

Furthermore, as indicated by symbol8F ofFIG.8C, the operation method display for the document B, and the process content display for the document B are provided again.

This process example exemplifies a case in which a user has noticed that an image has been captured with the document G tilted, and thus rotates and resets the document G on the document stand3.

In this process example, when the document B is reset, the captured image obtained by capturing before the reset is discarded. Also, when the document B is reset, an image of the document B is captured again.

In the exemplary embodiment, the CPU11adetermines whether the document G has been reset based on the image obtained by the camera5. When the document has been reset, the CPU11adiscards the captured image obtained by capturing before the reset, and captures an image of the document B again.

For example, when the position of the document G is changed, the CPU11adetermines that the document G has been reset. In addition, for example, when the orientation of the document G is changed, the CPU11adetermines that the document G has been reset.

In this situation, as described above, the CPU11adiscards the captured image obtained by capturing before the reset, and captures an image of the document G after the reset.

Also, in this process example, first, as described above, an image of the document A is captured, and as illustrated inFIG.9A, a correspondence image19corresponding to the document G is displayed on the display device7.

Subsequently, also in this process example, as illustrated inFIG.9B, the document B is placed on the document stand3, and an image of the document B is captured.

Thus, as described above, as illustrated inFIG.9B, the captured image of the document B is displayed on the display device7. Furthermore, as described above, as illustrated inFIG.9B, the operation method display for the document B, and the process content display for the document B are provided on the display device7.

Subsequently, in this process example, the document B is reset by a user.

This process example exemplifies a case in which a user has noticed that an image has been captured with the document G displaced to the left side. In this situation, as illustrated inFIGS.9B,9C, a user moves the document G on the document stand3in the right direction, and resets the document G.

Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment, the captured image of the document B obtained before the reset of the document G is discarded. In addition, an image of the reset document B is captured.

In the example illustrated inFIGS.8A to8C,FIGS.9A to9C, when the document G on the document stand3is rotated or moved, the CPU11amakes a determination to re-capture the document G. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, as described above, the document G is re-captured.

FIG.10is a flowchart illustrating the details of the process explained inFIGS.8A to8C,FIGS.9A to9C, when they are executed.

Note that the processes in step S201to step S207are the same as the processes in step S101to step S107illustrated inFIG.7, and the processes in and after step S208will be described.

In the process of step S208, it is determined whether the document G has been removed from the document stand3.

When it is determined in step S208whether the document G has been removed from the document stand3, the determinate process is performed on the captured image (step S209), and a process of saving the captured image is performed. More specifically, for example, when the document G is moved in the left direction, and removed from the document stand3by a user, a determinate process is performed on the captured image, and a process of saving the captured image is performed.

Subsequently, as described above, guidance is displayed on the display device7to prompt a user to set a new document G on the document stand3(step S210). Subsequently, the processes in and after step S202are performed again.

In contrast, when it is determined in step S208that the document G has not removed from the document stand3, it is determined whether the document G has been reset (step S211).

When it is determined that the document G has been reset, a process of discarding the captured image obtained before the reset is performed (step S212). Subsequently, the processes in and after step S204are performed again. Thus, the document G after the reset is re-captured.

In contrast, when it is determined in step S211that the document G has not been reset, the flow proceeds to the process in step S213.

In this process example, in the process in step S213, a user selects the selection item, “No subsequent document” displayed on the display device7. The process example illustrated inFIG.10exemplifies the process when a user selects the selection item “No subsequent document”.

When a user selects the selection item “No subsequent document”, the flow proceeds to the process in step S214. In the process in step S214, a process of saving the captured images obtained so far as one file is performed.

In addition to the processes described above, as illustrated inFIG.11A, when the document G is moved in the far-side direction of the document stand3before the document G is removed, it may be determined that instructions “No subsequent document” are provided by a user, and one image file may be generated based on the captured images obtained so far.

In the exemplary embodiment, as described above, when a first document G is read, a reading job is started. For multiple documents G, with the reading job started, the documents G are successively set on the document stand3, and the documents G are sequentially read.

For example, when a user provides instructions “No subsequent document”, the reading job is completed, and a file consisting of multiple captured images obtained by reading multiple documents G is generated.

In other words, when a user provides instructions “No subsequent document”, the CPU11adetermines that the most recently read document is the last document. The CPU11agenerates a file consisting of the captured images obtained by capturing all documents G from the first document G to the last document G.

In the case of the above process, as described above, it is designed that when the document G is moved in the far-side direction of the document stand3, it is determined that instructions “No subsequent document” are provided by a user, thus the operability of a user is improved.

When the instructions “No subsequent document” are provided, a selection item “No subsequent document” may be displayed on the display device7, and upon selection of the selection item, the reading job may be completed. In this situation, a user needs to perform an operation for the display device7.

In contrast, as in the exemplary embodiment, when it is designed that upon movement of the document G in the far-side direction of the document stand3, the reading job is completed, a user does not need to perform an operation for the display device7.

Note that the selection item “No subsequent document” on the display device7does not need to be deleted, and when the document G is moved in the far-side direction of the document stand3while the selection item “No subsequent document” being displayed, the reading job may be completed.

Alternatively, in addition, as illustrated inFIG.11B, when the document G is moved in the near-side direction of the document stand3before the document G is removed, a process of cancelling the reading job may be performed. In this situation, the captured images obtained so far are discarded.

Note that when the document G is moved in the near-side direction of the document stand3, the reading job may be cancelled after confirming the cancellation with a user without cancelling the reading job immediately.

More specifically, for example, a screen to confirm the cancellation of the reading job with a user is displayed on the display device7, and when a user gives instructions for cancellation, the reading job may be cancelled.

Note that as described above, a selection item for selecting “Cancel” on the display device7does not need to be deleted, and when the document G is moved in the near-side direction of the document stand3while the selection item “Cancel” being displayed, the reading job may be cancelled.

Note that in the present specification, hereinafter the far-side direction may be referred to as the “upper direction”, and the near-side direction may be referred to as the “lower direction”.

In the process illustrated inFIGS.11A and11B, the CPU11amakes a determination as to whether a process of reading the document G is continued based on the movement of the document G on the document stand3.

The process illustrated inFIG.11Aexemplifies a case in which the movement of the document G on the document stand3is a movement in the far-side direction, which is an example of a predetermined specific movement.

In this situation, the CPU11adetermines that the document G is the last document, and makes a determination to generate a file including the results of reading of the document G.

In addition, the process illustrated inFIG.11Bexemplifies a case in which the movement of the document G on the document stand3is a movement in the near-side direction, which is another example of a predetermined specific movement.

In this situation, the CPU11amakes a determination to cancel the process of reading the document G.

Alternatively, in addition, when a new document G is not detected after a lapse of a predetermined time since removal of the document G from the document stand3, a selection item such as “No subsequent document” or a selection item such as “Job cancelled” may be displayed on the display device7.

When this process is performed, a notification is substantially provided to prompt a user to input the next operation, thus the possibility of execution of the next process by a user increases.

When the next document G is not placed after the document G is removed from the document stand3by a user, the process of reading the document G is in an interrupted state. In this situation, when selection items are displayed as described above, the possibility of execution of the next process increases.

Note that in a case in which a new document G is not detected after a lapse of a predetermined time since removal of the document G from the document stand3, when a new document G is detected subsequently, the new document G may be read.

Alternatively, in addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed without any operation by a user since the above-mentioned selection items such as “No subsequent document” and “Job cancelled” are displayed, the reading job may be terminated and a file may be generated, or a process of discarding the captured images obtained so far may be performed.

Alternatively, in addition, for example, a user may make a mistake in the movement direction of the document G when removing it, and for example, a situation may occur in which a captured image is deleted although the user wants a determinate process to be performed.

Thus, for example, when a user performs an operation to cause the captured image to be deleted, a screen to confirm the deletion of the captured image with a user may be displayed to inquire of the user. When a user gives “Delete” instructions in response to the inquiry, the captured image may be deleted.

In other words, when a user performs an operation to cause the captured image to be deleted, instructions from a user may be further received, and a final process may be performed based on the instructions.

Alternatively, in addition, a user may make a mistake in the movement direction of the document G when removing it from the document stand3, and a situation may occur in which a captured image which is supposed to be deleted by a user undergoes a determinate process.

Thus, in this situation, as described above, a screen to confirm the determinate process on the captured image with a user may be displayed to inquire of the user.

When a user gives “Determine” instructions in response to the inquiry, the captured image may be determined.

When a user removes the document G, as described above, instructions from the user may be further received. The final process may be performed based on the instructions from a user.

Alternatively, in addition, for example, selection items for receiving instructions for undoing a process may be displayed on the display device7, and when the instructions are given from a user, an undo process may be performed to return to the state before the process prior to the instructions is performed.

More specifically, for example, a selection item such as [Undo] button to return from a state of discarded captured image to a previous state of the non-discarded captured image is displayed on the display device7. When a user selects the selection item, the discarded captured image may be returned to the previous state of the non-discarded captured image.

In the above, a case has been described in which as an example of a process to be performed when the document G is operated by a user, a process of determining the captured image and a process of discarding the captured image are performed.

However, the process to be performed when the document G is operated is not limited to these, and for example, a process of determining an output form of the captured image may be performed based on an operation by a user on the document G.

Specifically, for example, an output form of the captured image may be determined to be output via E-mail or output through FAX transmission based on an operation by a user on the document G.

Alternatively, in addition, for example, a file format when the captured image is stored may be determined based on an operation by a user on the document G.

In addition, as the process to be performed when the document G is operated by a user, for example, a process of determining a reading condition for the document G may be mentioned.

When the document G is operated by a user, a reading condition for the document G may be determined based on the movement of the document G. Specifically, for example, a resolution when the document G is read and whether the document G is read in color or monochrome may be determined.

In the above, as the operation for the document G, an example of operation has been described in which the document G is moved in either one of four directions: upward, downward, rightward, and leftward; however, the operation for the document G is not limited to this.

For example, a user slides the document G in the right or left direction or in the upward or downward direction on the document stand3, and when this movement of sliding the document is detected, a process corresponding to this movement may be performed.

Also, the movement direction of the document G is not limited to the right or left direction or the upward or downward direction, and a movement of the document G which is moved along a diagonal direction of the document stand3may be detected, and a process corresponding to this movement may be performed.

In addition, for example, when a user reverses the front and back of the document G on the document stand3, the reversal may be detected, and a process corresponding to the reversal may be performed.

The relationship between the movement direction of the document G when the document G is removed and the process associated with the movement direction is not limited to the above relationship, and may be another relationship.

In the above, a case has been described in which when the document G is moved in the left direction and removed, a determinate process is performed, and when the document G is moved in the right direction and removed, a discarding process is performed.

However, without being limited to this, for example, when the document G is moved in the right direction and removed, a determinate process may be performed, and when the document G is moved in the left direction and removed, a discarding process may be performed.

InFIGS.11A and11B, a case has been described as an example in which when the document G is moved in the upward direction and removed, a process of determining that there is no subsequent document is performed, and when the document G is moved in the downward direction and removed, a process of cancelling the reading job is performed.

However, without being limited to this, for example, when the document G is moved in the upward direction and removed, a process of cancelling the reading job may be performed, and when the document G is moved in the downward direction and removed, a process of determining that there is no subsequent document may be performed.

Alternatively, in addition, for example, when the document G is moved in the upward direction or the downward direction, and removed, a determinate process, or a discarding process may be performed.

Alternatively, when the document G is moved in the left direction or the right direction, and removed, a process of determining that there is no subsequent document, or a process of cancelling the reading job may be performed.

In the above, a case has been described in which when the document G to be removed is completely displaced from the document stand3, a determinate process or a discarding process is performed; however, complete displacement of the document G from the document stand3may not be a condition for starting a process.

When the document G is moved in the left direction or the right direction, a determinate process or a discarding process may be performed. Alternatively, when the document G is moved in the upward direction or the downward direction, a process of determining that there is no subsequent document, or a process of cancelling the reading job may be performed.

In the process examples illustrated inFIGS.8A to8C,FIGS.9A to9C, a case has been described in which when the state of the document G is changed, image re-capturing is determined.

However, without being limited to this, the state of the document G is pre-set, and when the state of the document G is changed and the state of the document G is in a predetermined state, a determination may be made to perform various processes such as image re-capturing.

In other words, when the document G on the document stand3is rotated or moved, and the document G is in a specific state, a determination may be made to re-capture an image of the document G.

Specifically, for example, referring to the process example illustrated inFIGS.8A to8C, when the document G is rotated and the document G is in an upright state, a determination may be made to re-capture an image of the document G.

Also, referring to the process example illustrated inFIGS.9A to9C, when the document G is moved and the document G is disposed at a predetermined position such as the central position of the document stand3, a determination may be made to re-capture an image of the document G.

Alternatively, in addition, based on a side31located at a position to which the document G is moved, the side31being among the four sides31(seeFIG.1) of the document stand3formed in a rectangular shape, the above-mentioned determination related to reading of the document G may be made.

In this situation, the content of the above-mentioned determination related to reading of the document G may be differentiated according to the side31located at a position to which the document G is moved.

In the above, a determination related to reading of the document G is mostly made according to the movement direction of the document G; however, the content of a determination related to reading of the document G may be differentiated according to a side31located at the position to which the document G is moved and through which the document G is passed.

In the process examples illustrated inFIGS.5A to5D,FIGS.6A to6D,FIGS.11A and11B, as an example, a case has been described in which a determination related to the process to be performed is made based on the movement of the document G when removed from the document stand3; however, the movement of the document G when the determination is made is not limited to the movement of the document G when removed.

For example, a determination related to the process to be performed may be made based on the movement of the document G when placed on the document stand3.

Specifically, a reading condition for reading the document G and an output form of an obtained captured image may be determined based on the movement of the document G when placed on the document stand3.

Also, for example, for the captured image of another document G read immediately before the reading of the document G, a determination as to whether a determinate process is performed or a determination as to whether a discarding process is performed may be performed based on the movement of the document G when placed on the document stand3.

For example, when the document G is placed on the document stand3after moved from the left side of the document stand3, a determinate process may be performed on the captured image of another document G read immediately before the reading of the document G.

In addition, for example, when the document G is placed on the document stand3after moved from the right side of the document stand3, a discarding process may be performed on the captured image of another document G read immediately before the reading of the document G.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG.12(illustrating the image forming apparatus), the image reading apparatus1may be provided as part of an image forming apparatus400.

In the image forming apparatus400, the above-described image reading apparatus1is provided at an upper portion of the image forming apparatus400.

As described above, the image reading apparatus1is provided with the document stand3on which the document G as a target image to be read is placed, and which supports the document G from below; the camera5as an example of an image capture device that captures the document G placed on the document stand3; and a display device7that displays information to a user. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus400is provided the information processing device100that processes information related to capturing the document G.

In addition, the image forming apparatus400is provided with an image former410inside the image forming apparatus400, the image former410being configured to form an image on a recording material such as a sheet of paper.

The image former410forms an image on a recording material supplied from a recording material storage (not illustrated) using an ink jet system or an electrophotographic system.

More specifically, the image former410forms an image on a recording material using an ink jet system or an electrophotographic system based on a captured image obtained by the image reading apparatus1or image data transmitted from the outside of the image forming apparatus400to the image forming apparatus400.

The recording material with an image formed is transported to a paper stacking unit420, and stacked thereon.

APPENDIX

An information processing device comprising:a processor configured to:detect movement of a document placed on a document stand included in a device that reads the document by capturing an image of the document stand; andmake a determination related to reading of the document based on the movement of the document on the document stand.
(((2)))

The information processing device according to (((1))),wherein the processor is configured to:make a determination related to handling of a result of reading of the document based on the movement of the document on the document stand.
(((3)))

The information processing device according to (((2))),wherein the processor is configured to:when the movement of the document on the document stand is a predetermined specific movement, make a determination to store the result of reading in an information storage.
(((4)))

The information processing device according to (((2))),wherein the processor is configured to:when the movement of the document on the document stand is a predetermined specific movement, make a determination to discard the result of reading.
(((5)))

The information processing device according to (((1))),wherein the processor is configured to:make a determination as to whether a process of reading the document is continued based on the movement of the document on the document stand.
(((6)))

The information processing device according to (((5))),wherein the processor is configured to:when the movement of the document on the document stand is a predetermined specific movement, determine that the movement is a last document, and make a determination to generate a file including the result of reading of the document.
(((7)))

The information processing device according to (((5))),wherein the processor is configured to:when the movement of the document on the document stand is a predetermined specific movement, make a determination to cancel the process of reading the document.
(((8)))

The information processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((7))),wherein the processor is configured to:detect movement of the document placed on the document stand based on an image obtained by the capturing of the document stand.
(((9)))

The information processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((8))),wherein the processor is configured to:make the determination related to reading of the document based on movement of the document when the document on the document stand is moved along a surface of the document stand.
(((10)))

The information processing device according to (((9))),wherein the processor is configured to:make the determination related to reading of the document based on a movement direction of the document when the document is moved along the surface of the document stand.
(((11)))

The information processing device according to (((10))),wherein the processor is configured to:differentiate content of the determination related to reading of the document based on a side located at a position to which the document is moved, the side being among four sides of the document stand formed in a rectangular shape.
(((12)))

The information processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((11))),wherein the processor is configured to:make the determination related to reading of the document on the document stand based on the movement of the document when removed from the document stand.
(((13)))

The information processing device according to (((1))),wherein the processor is configured to:when the document on the document stand is rotated or moved, make a determination to re-capture the document.
(((14)))

The information processing device according to (((13))),wherein the processor is configured to:when the document on the document stand is rotated or moved, and the document is in a specific state, make a determination to re-capture the document.
(((15)))

An image reading apparatus comprising:a device that reads a document by capturing an image of a document stand on which the document is placed; andan information processing apparatus that makes a determination related to reading of the document,wherein the information processing apparatus includes the information processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((14))).
(((16)))

An image forming apparatus comprising:a device that reads a document by capturing an image of a document stand on which the document is placed;an information processing apparatus that makes a determination related to reading of the document; andan image former that forms an image on a recording material,wherein the information processing apparatus includes the information processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((14))).
(((17)))

A program causing a computer to execute a process comprising:detecting movement of a document placed on a document stand included in a device that reads the document by capturing an image of the document stand; andmaking a determination related to reading of the document based on the movement of the document on the document stand.