Source: https://patents.google.com/patent/DE69229285T3/en
Timestamp: 2020-02-29 05:18:02
Document Index: 62769076

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 211', 'art 211', 'art 219', 'art 220', 'art 221', 'art 222', 'art 226']

DE69229285T3 - Image processing device - Google Patents
DE69229285T3
DE69229285T3 DE1992629285 DE69229285T DE69229285T3 DE 69229285 T3 DE69229285 T3 DE 69229285T3 DE 1992629285 DE1992629285 DE 1992629285 DE 69229285 T DE69229285 T DE 69229285T DE 69229285 T3 DE69229285 T3 DE 69229285T3
DE1992629285
DE69229285T2 (en
DE69229285D1 (en
1991-03-25 Priority to JP3060248A priority Critical patent/JP2614369B2/en
1991-03-25 Priority to JP60248/91 priority
1991-05-08 Priority to JP10235491A priority patent/JP3242939B2/en
1991-05-08 Priority to JP102354/91 priority
1991-05-29 Priority to JP124345/91 priority
1991-05-29 Priority to JP12434591A priority patent/JP3295103B2/en
1991-07-01 Priority to JP16056091A priority patent/JP3313739B2/en
1991-07-01 Priority to JP160560/91 priority
1992-03-24 Application filed by Canon Inc filed Critical Canon Inc
1999-11-04 Publication of DE69229285T2 publication Critical patent/DE69229285T2/en
2000-02-23 First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=27463882&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=DE69229285(T3) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
2004-04-22 Publication of DE69229285T3 publication Critical patent/DE69229285T3/en
The invention relates to a Image processing device and method and, in detail, to an image processing device and method, which an operation for capturing a predetermined image and also an operation for adding information to a device identifying one allow reproduced image.
Copiers that are creating a Multi-color copy with high image quality have already been developed. With such copiers certain Types of templates that should not be copied (for example an invoice or banknote), copied with high image quality so that the Copy is hardly distinguishable from the original. It therefore exists the risk of abuse such copiers.
Because of this, different procedures have been used to enable a recognition of certain types of originals proposed by the copier.
For example, EP-A-0382549 shows a color copier with a possibility of preventing counterfeiting, in the input data with stored reference patterns, the banknotes or mark securities, etc. are compared. It is found that this If the input image contains one of the saved patterns, it becomes a lifelike one Copy the input image, for example, by deactivating one Part of the copier prevented.
DE-C1-3410775 discloses a copier with a Access control. To copy an original document, the Data identifying the user by means of an authorization card input, and this data is used to characterize the class of the original document Compare data read from the original document. The Copy operation is in case of agreement the data identifying the user and the data from the original document Approved. In one embodiment the data identifying the user will be generated on the Copy shown.
EP-A-0342060 discloses a copying machine which has one Determining means includes whether an original to be copied is an original with a special pattern, and a facility to control a copy output based on the output from the Determining means, for example by adding the word "copy".
The Xerox Disclosure Journal, Vol. 5, No. 3, May / June 1980 discloses a technique for tracking Copies in which a small proportion of color-coded labeling particles is mixed with standard xerographic toners. It is then possible to have a xerographic Examine and copy with a standard optical microscope Find out the serial number of the toner batch quickly.
However, no procedure has yet been carried out proposed that an identification of a copier (or a person who made the copy) afterwards enables the copier to copy a certain type of original that should not be copied and after the copy obtained was misused.
According to the present invention becomes an imaging device according to claim 1 provided.
The invention also includes an image processing method according to claim 10.
Other features of the invention are in the claims 2 to 9 specified.
According to an embodiment of the invention becomes an image processing device provided that a function of adding a particular Pattern to a reproduced image and that a suitable Maintain quality of the displayed image.
Further features and advantages of present invention will become apparent from the following description recognizable with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar in all figures Components are identified by the same reference numerals.
1 shows a block diagram of the structure of an image scanner 201 according to a first embodiment of the invention;
2 shows a partial side view of the structure of a copying machine according to the first embodiment of the invention;
3 shows a block diagram of the construction of a determination circuit 409 of the first embodiment;
4A shows a block diagram of the structure of a thinning circuit 301 of the first embodiment;
4B shows a block diagram of the structure of a frequency divider circuit 310 of the first embodiment;
5 shows a block diagram of the structure of an integrator 306 of the first embodiment;
6 Fig. 12 shows a timing chart of a signal in the main scanning direction according to the first embodiment;
7A and 7B show diagrams of examples of input / output of the integrator 306 of the first embodiment;
8th shows a block diagram of the structure of a comparator module 310 of the first embodiment;
9 shows a block diagram of the structure of a pattern addition circuit 410 of the first embodiment;
10 shows a copy example according to the first embodiment;
11 Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing a process of setting a pattern level selection signal PS according to the first embodiment;
12 shows a front view of a control panel according to a second embodiment of the invention;
13A Fig. 12 shows a diagram of a display state of a liquid crystal touch panel 1203 of the second embodiment when an operating voltage source is switched on;
13B Fig. 12 shows a diagram of a display state of the liquid crystal touch panel 1203 when an image refresh function is used according to the second embodiment;
14 FIG. 12 shows a diagram of an example of the image refresh function according to the second embodiment;
15 shows a block diagram of an image scanner according to a third embodiment of the invention;
16A and 16B show diagrams of processing results using a pattern generation circuit 2411 of the third embodiment;
17 shows a diagram of the structure of a system according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;
18 shows a block diagram of the construction of an image scanner unit according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;
19 shows a block diagram of the structure of a pattern addition circuit 7410 of the fifth embodiment;
20 shows a diagram of the structure of an information processing system according to a sixth embodiment of the invention; and
21 shows a diagram of the relationship between a signal CNO and a print output.
A detailed description follows preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying Drawings.
Copiers are described as exemplary embodiments according to the invention, but it’s not necessary find that the present invention is not limited to such and any other Device type is applicable.
2 shows a partial side view of the structure of a copying machine according to a first embodiment of the invention. An image scanner unit 201 reads an original with a resolution of 400 dpi (dots / inch) to process a digital signal representing the original. A printer unit 202 prints one by the scanner 201 read full color output image on a printing sheet with a resolution of 400 dpi.
In the image scanner unit 201 becomes a template 204 on a table glass (hereinafter referred to as a table top) 203 placed while it is through a reflective pressure plate 200 is pressed. The template 204 comes with a lamp 205 irradiated and the reflection light of the template wanders over mirrors 206 . 207 and 208 , Through a lens 209 an image is made from this light on a three-line sensor (hereinafter referred to as CCD) 210 educated. Thereby, full color information with a red component R, a green component G and a blue component B is obtained and to a signal processing part 211 Posted. The lamp 205 and the mirrors 206 to 208 are mechanically moved in a direction perpendicular to the electrical scanning direction of the line sensor (a main scanning direction) to scan the surface of the original (in a sub-scanning direction). For this scanning process, the lamp 205 and the mirror 206 moves at a speed v and the mirrors 207 and 208 at a speed of 1/2 v.
In the signal processing part 211 the read image signal is electrically processed for division into a magenta component M, a cyan component C, a yellow component Y and a black component BK to the printer unit 202 to be sent. Within an original scanning period of the image scanner 201 one of the components M, C, Y and BK becomes the printer 202 Posted. Printing of the reproduced image is completed after four original scanning periods.
Each from the image scanner unit 201 The transmitted image signal M, C, Y or BK becomes a laser control 212 Posted. The laser control 212 controls a semiconductor laser 213 by modulating the control signal. A surface of a delicate drum 212 is by means of a polygon mirror 214 , an f-θ lens 215 and a mirror 216 guided light of the laser.
A rotary developing device 218 includes a magenta developing part 219 , a cyan developing part 220 , a yellow developing part 221 and a black development part 222 , These development parts alternate with the sensitive drum 217 in contact to develop an electrostatic image formed on the sensitive drum by means of a toner.
One from a paper cassette 224 or 225 fed paper sheet is around a transfer drum 223 and the image developed on the sensitive drum is transferred to the paper sheet.
After four colors M, C, Y and BK after were transferred to each other in this way, the printing sheet is through a fixing part 226 passed and discharged after the fixing of the toner is finished.
1 shows a block diagram of the structure of the image pickup unit 201 according to the first embodiment. blocks 210-1 . 210-2 and 210-3 represent CCD sensors (solid-state imaging elements) which have such spectral sensitivity properties that they are sensitive to red (R), green (G) and blue (B). Each sensor converts an analog input signal into an 8-bit signal that takes values between 0 and 255 and outputs this signal.
The sensors used in the first embodiment 210-1 . 210-2 and 210-3 are arranged at certain intervals, with relative spatial deviations between them due to delay elements 401 and 402 Getting corrected. blocks 403 . 404 and 405 are logarithmic converters made up of memory table ROMs or RAMs that convert a luminance signal to a density signal. A block 406 represents a masking UCR (color withdrawal) circuit, in which each time a magenta signal M, cyan signal C, yellow signal Y or black signal BK is read from three input signals, a signal with a predetermined bit length is output, e.g. B. 8 bits, which are formed in a surface serial manner.
A block 407 identifies a spatial filter circuit that corrects spatial frequencies of an output signal. A block 408 denotes a density conversion circuit, the density characteristics of the printer unit 202 compensated. The density conversion circuit 408 is made of ROMs or RAMs similar to those of the logarithmic converters 403 to 405 built up.
A block 414 represents a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as CPU) for overall control of this unit. A block 415 represents a ROM in which a program for operating the CPU 414 is saved. A block 416 represents a RAM used as a work area for executing numerous programs. A block 413 represents an input / output (I / O) interface connected to the CPU 414 connected is. A block 409 identifies a determination circuit that distinguishes certain types of originals.
The circuit 409 to distinguish certain types of originals, determines the probability that at least one of predetermined particular kinds of originals is being read, and outputs the determination result as multi-value data, ie, a two-bit determination signal H. The value of the determination signal H is chosen so that the probability is greater when the value of the determination signal H is higher. That is, H = "3" is output when the probability is greatest and H = "0" when the probability is least. The determination circuit 409 also has a function of thinning out the input signals R, G and B by a thinning circuit 301 and a frequency divider circuit 310 which later referring to 3 to be discribed.
A signal CNO is a two-bit screen serial signal that indicates the order of the four read operations with respect to the four output colors magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y) and black (BK). 21 shows the relationship between the CNO signal and the printed output. The CNO signal is generated by the CPU 414 generated and via the I / O interface 413 fed to the operating characteristics of the masking UCR circuit 406 to change. That is, the signal CNO is changed from 0 to 1, 2 and 3, and the output color of a print is changed accordingly from magenta to cyan, yellow and black.
The CNO signal is also input to the determination circuit 409 to change the determination criteria regarding the four read operations, so that the determination circuit 409 can effect the determination with regard to various specific template types.
A block 410 represents a pattern addition circuit in which a pattern that cannot be easily recognized by human eyes is added to a reproduced image, that is, a copied image according to one by the CPU 414 specified two-bit pattern level selection signal PS.
A block 420 indicates a control panel that has various control buttons and a display field on which messages are displayed.
4A shows a block diagram of the structure of the thinning circuit 301 according to the first embodiment of the invention, and 4B shows a block diagram of the structure of the frequency divider circuit 310 according to the first embodiment. 6 Fig. 12 shows a timing chart of various signals related to the main scanning direction according to the first embodiment.
An in 6 The VSYNC signal shown represents a sub-scan period signal indicating an image output period of the sub-scan. A signal HSYNC represents a main scan synchronizing signal for synchronizing the start of the main scan. A clock CLK represents an image transfer clock, which is a basic clock for various types of image processing in the first embodiment.
A clock CLK 'represents a clock by reducing the frequency of the as the basic clock for the determination circuit 409 CLK to be used is obtained. A signal SEL represents a timer signal for use in the thinning circuit described below 301 CLK 'and SEL are by the frequency divider circuit described below 310 generated.
The following are the thinning circuit 301 and the frequency divider circuit 310 described.
In 4A put the blocks 455 to 457 and 461 to 466 Flip-flops and the blocks 458 to 460 Voters. In 4B put the blocks 451 and 453 Inverter, one block 452 a two-bit counter, and a block 454 an AND gate.
The flip-flops 455 . 456 . 457 . 461 . 462 and 463 and the voters 458 . 459 and 460 hold data according to the timing of CLK while the flip-flops 464 . 465 and 466 Keep data according to the timing of the CLK.
In the frequency divider circuit 310 become the inverter 451 and the two-bit counter 452 is cleared (initialized) with the signal HSYNC, which is the main scan synchronous signal, and then CLK is counted to output two-bit count values (D0, D1). The upper bit D1 of these count values is output as CLK ', and a logical product of the upper bit D1 and an inverted signal of the lower bit D0 is output as signal SEL.
As a consequence, the signal R (G or B) transmitted by CLK becomes in the thinning circuit 301 thinned at a rate of 1/4 and synchronized with CLK 'to give a signal R' (G 'or B') 6 to obtain.
3 shows a block diagram of the structure of the determination circuit 409 according to the first embodiment. The same in 4A shown thinning circuit 301 thins out data to reduce the load on the processing part of the determination circuit 409 to reduce. A block 302 represents a hue adjustment memory table ROM (hereinafter referred to as LUT) which is used to check the hue match between an original read by the copying machine and a plurality of certain kinds of original (securities, banknotes, secret papers and the like). The LUT 302 stores information based on studies of color tone distributions 32 represent determination results based on certain kinds of originals, ie bit information representing the matching with a hue of each certain kind of originals, and bit information representing the mismatches with a hue of each certain kind of originals. 32 specific template types represent all combinations of each of 8 specific template types with M, C, Y and BK.
That is, the CNO signal, which is a screen sequential signal, is converted into the top two bits of each address in the LUT 302 and the upper 5 bits of the thinned image signal of each of the colors R, G and B are input to the lower 15 bits of the address. Determination results corresponding to values 0 to 3 of the CNO signal as to whether the hue of each pixel identified by the upper 5 bits of the image signal matches one of 8 tones of the specified original type with respect to each color are made in accordance with the 8-bit Data output at the same time. Correspondingly, a determination is made with regard to the 32 types of original determined on the basis of four read scanning periods for M, C, Y and BK.
In 3 blocks shown 303-1 . 303-2 , ..., 303-8 represent hue determination circuits built from the same hardware, ie each is from an integrator 306 , Registers 307 and a comparator module 308 built up. Each of the hue determination circuits 303-1 . 303-2 , ..., 303-8 determines a probability of existence of the corresponding specific type of template in the read template and outputs a two-bit determination result. A block 309 represents a maximum value circuit which is the maximum value by the hue determination circuit 303-1 . 303-2 , ..., 303-8 output determination results. The maximum value delivery 309 outputs one of the 8 determined template types, the existence of which is most likely, corresponding determination result.
5 shows a block diagram of the structure of the integrator 306 according to the first embodiment, 7A shows a diagram of an example of an output of the integrator 306 , and 7B shows a diagram of an example of an input to the integrator 306 ,
In 5 blocks shown 501 and 505 represent flip-flops that hold data at the time of each rise in CLK '. A block 502 represents a multiplier to which two 8-bit input signals (A, B) are supplied and which outputs an 8-bit signal (A × B / 255). A block 503 denotes a multiplier to which a 1-bit input signal (A) and an 8-bit input signal (B) are supplied and which multiplies these signals to output an 8-bit output signal (A × B). A block 504 indicates an adder to which two 8-bit input signals (A, B) are fed and which outputs an 8-bit signal (A + B) as the result of the addition.
Consequently, the integrator's operation arises 306 represents an 8-bit signal yi with respect to a binary input signal xi according to the following equation: yi = (α / 255) y i-1 + βx i-1 ... (1)
Values α and β in this equation represent predetermined constants, with different properties of the integrator 306 be determined by these values.
For example, for α = 247 and β = 8, an in 7A output shown yi with respect to an in 7B shown input xi output.
An input component, such as the one through a period 701 or 702 marked, with a level "1" among other input components with level "0", or an input component, such as by a dot 703 marked with a level "0" among other components with a level "1" can be considered as noise. The input signal having such components is processed by the integrator, with suitable threshold values such as values 704-1 (R1), 704-2 (R2) and 704-2 (R2) in the in 3 shown registers are set. The output yi of the integrator 306 becomes bivalent to remove noise.
8th shows a block diagram of the structure of the comparator module 308 according to the first embodiment. In 8th identify blocks 801 . 802 and 803 Comparator, one block 804 an inverter, a block 805 an AND gate and blocks 806 and 807 OR gate. Thresholds R1, R2, and R3 described above with reference to 7A have been mentioned in advance in the registers 307-1 . 307-2 respectively. 307-3 set. A relationship R1>R2> R3 is established. The determination result is from the comparator module 308 output under quantization to two bits. That means,
OUTPUT = 11 (binary) is output if R1 <(input),
OUTPUT = 10 (binary) is output if R2 <(input) ≤ R1,
OUTPUT = 01 (binary) is output if R3 <(input) ≤ R2, and
OUTPUT = 00 (binary) is output if (input) ≤ R3.
9 shows a block diagram of the structure of the pattern addition circuit 410 according to the first embodiment. In 9 identifies a block 901 a sub-scan counter, a block 902 a main scan counter, a block 903 a LUT, a block 905 a flip-flop, a block 913 an AND gate, blocks 906 . 907 . 908 and 909 Register, one block 910 4-to-1 voters, one block 911 an AND gate, a block 912 an adder and a block 914 an inverter.
The sub-scan counter 901 counts the main scan sync signal HSYNC while the main scan counter 902 the pixel sync signal CLK counts. Each counter repeatedly counts the signal with a cycle of 9 bits in width, ie 512 pixels. The LUT 903 is a read-only memory in which a pattern to be added is stored and which contains the lower 6 bits of the count value from both the sub-scan counter 901 as well as from the main scan counter 902 are fed. Only one bit of the output of the LUT 903 is used and with the top 3 bits of both the main scan counter 901 as well as the sub-scan counter 902 through the AND gate 904 combined to get a logical product of these bits. This logical product is the flip-flop 905 synchronized with CLK and combined with both the lower and upper bits of CNO, which is the two-bit screen sequential signal, to obtain a logical product that corresponds to the AND gate 911 is fed. This the AND gate 911 supplied signal is only effective if CNO = 2 (lower bit: 0, upper bit: 1) ie only if a printing process in yellow is currently being carried out (see 21 ).
Values P1, P2, P3 and P4 are stored in the registers beforehand 906 . 907 . 908 and 909 saved. The voter 910 selects one of the values P1, P2, P3 and P4 according to the pattern level selection signal PS (based on the determination signal H) which is generated by the CPU 414 was determined. The one by the voter 910 output value, ie a pattern signal, is via the AND gate 911 supplied and added to an input signal V 912 by the adder. One by the adder 912 obtained image signal is output as a reproduced image signal V '. So this is in the LUT 903 Stored patterns are read out repeatedly and added to the signal to be output if CNO = 2, ie if a printing process is currently being carried out in yellow.
In a pattern adding mode, a ratio P1 <P2 <P3 <P4 is established between P1, P2, P3 and P4. In the voter 910 becomes
Y = A set if s = 00 (binary),
Y = B specified if s = 01 (binary),
Y = C set when s = 10 (binary), and
Y = D set if s = 11 (binary).
Therefore, pattern addition of the type is effected
V '= V + P1 if PS = 00 (binary),
V '= V + P2 if PS = 01 (binary),
V '= V + P3 if PS = 10 (binary), and
V '= V + P4 if PS = 11 (binary).
The added pattern is only with yellow toner formed, making it difficult for human eyes is distinguishable. This process is designed to take advantage of the fact that discrimination is more human Eyes low on a pattern formed with yellow toner is. Furthermore, the arrangement is designed so that the level of the added Pattern according to the existence probability of a certain Template type is variable in the entered template. It is because of it possible, the pattern in normal copies for to make the human eye difficult to distinguish. The pattern is added more clearly if the existence probability of a particular template type is higher.
In a pattern addition prevention mode becomes "0" in all registers set, the P1, P2, P3 and P4 store the reproduced image signal V 'without adding the Generate pattern signal to the image signal V.
10 12 shows a diagram of an example of a copy result according to the first embodiment. In 10 an added pattern is marked with 1001. The one in the ROM 903 saved content is added. In the in 10 The example shown shows the added one Pattern two rows of letters "ABCD" and "1234" and is formed as a pattern of 64 x 64 pixels so that it is difficult to distinguish with human eyes. This pattern is repeatedly generated at intervals of 512 pixels in the main scanning direction and at intervals of 512 lines in the sub-scanning direction. A manufacturer's serial number assigned exclusively to the copying machine or a coded pattern of this number can be generated as this added pattern in order to enable identification of the machine used for copying a specific type of original by examining the copy.
Is there a high probability that a certain type of original that should not be copied in the read one Image exists, so a more clearly distinguishable pattern can be added.
In the first embodiment corresponds to the distance in which added patterns are arranged, 512 pixels in the main scanning direction, and the patterns hence at approximately intervals 32.5 mm added, since the copier according to the first Embodiment one resolution of 400 dpi (dots / inch). A banknote from the Bank of Japan, which is a specific type of template that should not be copied has a width of approximately 76 mm along its shorter side on, the widths of the shorter ones Pages of paper money from major countries of the world between about 60 and Fluctuate 120 mm. The pattern can therefore always be on the surface of a copy of each banknote. The device number for copying the Banknote used copier is recognizable.
11 shows a flowchart of the procedure of setting the pattern level selection signal PS according to the first embodiment. The processing according to this procedure is done by the CPU 414 controlled.
Immediately after the start of copying, step (S) 1102 "0" is set as the pattern level selection signal PS. After that, in step 1103 the present determination level H and the value of PS are compared. If the level H is higher, the value of H becomes PS in the step 1104 established. If the level H is not higher, the process returns to step 1103 back. That is, the maximum value of the recorded values of the discrimination signal H between the start of copying and the present time is set as PS.
As described above, in the first embodiment a particular pattern that is difficult to distinguish with human eyes according to the method of identifying a copying machine so that the pattern as a key used to identify the copier if a certain type of template (e.g. a banknote), that should not be copied is copied. The particular pattern is repeated at a distance shorter than the width of a banknote towards their shorter ones Side is added, so that added certain pattern is always included, even in part a copy of the banknote cut out for abuse becomes. this makes possible the identification of the copier used or the person who copier operated, or the limitation of suspicious machines or people by examining the added Pattern.
Furthermore, the previously registered degree of similarity detected between the read image and the particular pattern. is the degree of similarity high, it is determined that the The likelihood of copying a particular type of original is high, and the added pattern is intensified to be more easily distinguishable to be. Is the degree of similarity low, the pattern is weakened or not added to a decrease in image quality more commonly Avoid copies.
The present invention is not limited to the first embodiment described above. In the first embodiment becomes the copier's manufacturer's serial number or an encoded pattern this number as a specific pattern to be added. However, any other pattern can be added as long it includes information used to identify the copier. For example information such as the device manufacture date, the device lot number and / or a device type designation to identify the device exhibit.
Copiers are already known inserting an identification card when using it is required to identify an operator, and machines, where entering an identification number is required is. Such copiers can be constructed in such a way that the recognized identification number or a coded pattern of this Add number as a specific pattern.
It can also be the copy date or encoded data of the copy date added as a certain pattern become.
A description of the second follows embodiment of the invention.
This embodiment points to the in 1 shown control panel related features. This embodiment can also for those in 9 arrangement using the pattern addition circuit shown.
12 shows a front view of the configuration of a control panel according to the second embodiment. A ten-key field 1201 it is intended to be used to select the number of copies and one of different modes. An asterisk (*) key 1202 is in verbin with the ten-key field 1201 used to select the operating mode. A liquid crystal touch panel 1203 serves both as a display field and as an input field. A copy start button 1204 is used to start copying. A repeat button 1205 is used to determine a repeat function described later.
13A shows a diagram of the display state of the liquid crystal touch panel 1203 according to the second embodiment, when an operating voltage source is switched on. The number of copies is determined using the ten-key field 1201 determined, and the specified number of copies is displayed on the screen at a position in the upper right. In 13A showing the initial display state, the number displayed is one copy.
The image repetition function known per se will not described in detail but only briefly outlined.
14 FIG. 12 shows a diagram of an example of the image refresh function according to the second embodiment. The image repeat function is related to a 1301 designated template determined to repeat an image read from the template such as a letter A on an output paper sheet such as that 1302 to be able to output marked.
13B FIG. 12 shows a diagram of a display state of the liquid crystal touch panel when the image refresh function is used according to the second embodiment.
To determine the image repeat function, the image repeat button 1205 pressed first. When the refresh button 1205 has been pressed on the liquid crystal touch panel 1203 an ad according to 13B , The number of images to be repeated is increased by an up key 1220 or by decreasing with a down key 1221 determined, or is automatically by an automatic button 1222 certainly. When the setting is finished, an end key 1223 finally pressed to confirm the completion of the setting process.
In the second embodiment becomes a pattern adding mode provided for adding a difficult to see pattern to a copy output (copy) to identify the copier used, and a pattern add lock mode to lock the addition of the pattern.
In the second embodiment, the pattern adding mode is selected when the power source is turned on. Copies are normally always made in this mode. If necessary, the add pattern lock mode can be used by using the ten-key field 1201 and the star key 1202 be determined. For example, gives the operator one after the other
[*] [2] [0] [4] [2] [9] [*]
on, the pattern add lock mode is selected. This key entry sequence is not released for normal operators; it is released for service personnel or certain operators. In the pattern add lock mode, the following restrictions on use or measurements are effected while the pattern for identifying the copying machine is not added to the copy output (copy).
(1) In the pattern add lock mode, the number is copies limited to one, to be a big one Number of copies of an original that has not been copied and misused should be prevented.
(2) In the pattern add lock mode the image refresh function for a big Number of copies of an original that has not been copied and misused should be locked, as in the case (1).
(3) Simultaneously with the completion of copying in the pattern add lock mode becomes the copier in the pattern add mode set back. That is, the machine is prevented from being in the pattern lock mode remains so that a large number copies of a template that should not be copied can be misused by undetermined operators can be.
(4) In the pattern add lock mode the data of the copier used are stored in the copier. Furthermore, in the case of a copier in which the insertion an identification card in the device or entering an operator identification number an identification number is required to identify the operator the operator or the like in a non-volatile memory in the device saved. This means that the Abuse copies all stored in the machine Information is examined to identify the possible operators to some degree.
A description of the third follows Embodiment. The structure of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment with the exception that the Structure of the image scanner unit from that of the first embodiment differs. The other units are therefore not shown their description will not be repeated.
15 shows a block diagram of the structure of the image scanner according to the third embodiment. Components of this embodiment, which the in 1 shown correspond or the same Chen are identified by the same reference numerals and a description of these is not repeated.
In 15 identifies a block 2411 a pattern generating circuit, a block 2413 an I / O interface, a block 2414 one CPU, one block 2415 one ROM, one block 2416 a RAM and a block 2410 an AND gate.
The function of this unit is described below. A logical AND operation of an 8-bit output V of the density conversion circuit 408 with one from the determination circuit 409 Output determination signal H is obtained and output as V '. As a result, when the determination signal H = 1, that is, the determination of the current reading of a particular type of original, it is found that the pattern generation circuit described later 2411 is consistent and outputs an output V '= FF (255) regardless of the value of the input signal V. If the determination signal H = 0, ie a determination of the current reading of no particular type of original, the pattern generation circuit described later becomes 2411 throughout and the value of the input signal V is output directly as the output signal V '. If the determination signal is H = 2, that is, there is a possibility that a certain type of original is being read, the pattern generation circuit described later generates a certain two-bit pattern signal that the AND gate 2410 is supplied together with the determination signal H. The pattern signal and the input signal V are thereby combined to form the output signal V '.
16A and 16B show diagrams of processing results of the pattern generation circuit 2441 according to the third embodiment.
16A shows a processing result in the case that a certain type of original is read. A template 801 contains a specific image 803 , ie the specific type of original. If the original is read by the copier in response to a copy command, an output image becomes 802 receive. In the original picture 802 becomes a specific the position of the specific image 803 corresponding area 804 masked. I.e. the particular area 804 is filled in with, for example, magenta (M) if CNO = 0, cyan (C) if CNO = 1, or yellow (Y) if CNO = 2. Consequently, the specified range 804 not copied in the normal way, and the specific template image 803 is not reproduced in a recognizable state.
16B shows a case of reading a certain image. In this case, an output signal becomes H = 2 from the determination circuit 409 output and the pattern generating circuit 2411 generates a signal that represents a particular pattern to be output. For example, as in 16B shown a the device number of the device and, for example, the date of use of the device as this pattern at certain intervals printed on the copy. The pattern is printed in yellow so that even if such information has been printed by an erroneous determination and no specific image is contained in the original, the deterioration in the image quality cannot be recognized by the operator and no serious problem arises using the original image. If an output hard copy of a certain type of original is output and used for the same use as the original, the device used to obtain this copy can be identified by the pattern printed in yellow.
A template referred to herein as a "certain type of template" identifies a template such as a copy copied alone Banknote or invoice or a combination of a banknote or Invoice with other templates. The present invention is independent of the concept of "certain Original type "applicable.
For example, the picture 803 represent a certain type of original while the image 801 a certain type of template in the in 16A shown example.
In the above first to third embodiments was the procedure for distinguishing certain types of originals in the Image scanner unit used. However, the present invention is not limited to that and it can be an independent Image processing unit for differentiating certain types of originals be provided.
17 shows a diagram of the structure of an image processing system according to the fourth embodiment. A block 2901 identifies a scanner, a block 2092 a video tape recorder (VTR), a block 2903 a still video camera (SVC), a block 2904 an image processing unit with a certain original discrimination function according to this embodiment and a raster memory, and a block 2905 an image output unit such as a facsimile device or a printer. The image scanner 2901 , the VTR 2902 and SVC 2903 are shown as examples of input units of this embodiment, but are not exhaustive, and a host computer or the like may also be connected.
The structure of the image processing unit 2904 is described below. The image processing unit comprises to achieve a certain original discrimination function 2904 the determination circuit 409 and the pattern generation circuit 2411 described above with respect to the third embodiment. The funk tion of the distinction of the particular template corresponds to that according to the third embodiment and details thereof are not repeated.
A description of the operation of the image processing unit follows 2904 , Will an image signal from the scanner 2901 , the VTR 2902 or the SVC 2903 the image processing unit 2094 supplied, the process of differentiating certain types of originals takes place successively using the raster memory, and determination results are sent to the image output unit 2905 output.
Thus, the image processing unit intended to determine certain types of templates independently, for example to prevent a Communication system communicates using certain types of templates or issues such templates.
In the fourth embodiment, the image output unit 2905 a determination circuit and a pattern generation circuit to enable discrimination according to pressure signals Y, M, C and BK or Y, M and C, or R, G and B and to output output images according to the discrimination results, that is, both to enable discrimination with respect to each input as well as to reduce deterioration in image quality when a determination error occurs.
In the fourth embodiment the determination signal H is a 3-bit signal from 0 to 2. It is however possible to increase the number of bits the density of an added pattern (added information) accordingly to change the distinction rate d. H. the existence probability of a particular template type.
Although facilities for adding a certain pattern according to the above Description for black and white copying can be used it’s useless to add a specific pattern to a black and white copy because all certain templates that should not be copied are colored are and the quality of the reproduced image deteriorates when a certain one Pattern added becomes.
The fifth embodiment of the present invention is described below.
A copying machine according to the fifth embodiment has one Structure based on a circuit for determining whether a read Image is colorless or colored, to which image scanner unit has been added, the above as a unit of the first or third embodiment has been described.
18 shows a block diagram of the structure of the image scanner unit according to the fifth embodiment. In 18 are circuit blocks that have the same functions as those in 1 have shown, identified by the same reference numerals and are not described in detail. A CPU is a significantly different circuit 7414 , a ROM 7415 , a RAM 7416 , a pattern addition circuit 7410 and a non-chromatic / chromatic color discrimination circuit 7417 provided between the density conversion circuit 408 and the pattern addition circuit 410 are arranged.
The nonchromatic / chromatic color discrimination circuit 7417 specifies a read image to be copied as a color or colorless (black and white) image. If it is determined that the read image is colored, it causes the pattern addition circuit 410 performs a pattern addition. If it is determined that the image read is colorless, it blocks that by the pattern addition circuit 410 performed sample addition.
This determination result is sent to the pattern addition circuit as a 1-bit determination signal CH 7410 Posted. CH = 0 if the read image was determined to be a colorless image, and CH = 1 if the read image was determined to be a color image.
The pattern addition circuit 7410 according to this embodiment will be described below.
19 shows a block diagram of the structure of the pattern addition circuit 7410 according to the fifth embodiment.
In 19 circuit blocks with the same functions as those in 9 (First embodiment) shown by the same reference numerals and not described in detail. In this embodiment there is an AND gate 7911 which is that of the nonchromatic / chromatic color discrimination circuit 7417 Received determination signal CH processes, always 0 off when CH = 0. In this case, the image signal V is output as the image signal V ', with no particular pattern by an adder 912 is added to the image signal V.
Thus, the fifth embodiment fulfills a requirement that no particular pattern should be added to an image reproduced as a black and white copy. Thus, an image is reproduced without adding a pattern in the pattern addition circuit 7410 to prevent any deterioration in image quality.
In the aforementioned fifth embodiment, the pattern addition / non-addition is controlled based on R, G, and B signals read by the reader of the copying machine. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the structure may be such that the loading the image data (R, G and B signals) obtained from an external unit, such as a host computer, can also be colorless in the same way as in the fifth embodiment, and the pattern addition in the pattern addition circuit is blocked during black and white copying, when a read image is recognized as colorless.
20 shows a diagram of an image processing system according to the sixth embodiment of the invention. As in 20 the image processing system comprises an external unit 8001 such as a host computer, an image scanner 8003 , a printer 8004 and a relay unit 8002 , The relay unit 8002 connects the external unit 8001 with the printer 8004 (scanners 8003 ) and has the same components as the determination circuit 409 who have favourited Nonchromatic / Chromatic Color Discrimination Circuit 7417 , the pattern addition circuit 7410 who have favourited I / O Interface 413 who have favourited CPU 7414 , the ROM 7415 and the RAM 7416 on.
A description of how it works follows of this system.
Receives the relay unit 8002 an image signal from the external unit 8001 , it examines the ratio of the R / G / B components and determines that the received image signal is a black and white signal when the ratio is 1: 1: 1. In this case the signal is sent to the printer 8004 supplied by the pattern addition circuit without addition of a pattern.
In each of the embodiments 5 and 6 pattern addition is prevented only when a black and white copy is fed. However, the copying machine can be controlled in such a manner that the addition of a certain pattern is prevented even if a monochrome copying mode or a two-color mode is determined with respect to an original.
Embodiments of the present Invention can consist of a large number of units or of one unit. It is unnecessary to find that embodiments also by equipping a system or a device with a A program is provided to achieve the same effects as the invention can be.
With regard to the exemplary embodiments described above Laser beam printers have been illustrated, the present invention but is not limited to this. The present invention is for Inkjet printers, thermal transfer printers and the like are applicable. The present invention is particularly applicable to bubble jet printers use a head type that uses liquid droplets radiates from film boiling caused by thermal energy.
The color of the added pattern is not to the yellow chosen in the aforementioned embodiment limited; it can other colors also selected be, e.g. B. subtle colors such as yellowish green and gray and high-quality colors such as light violet and light green.
The device for entering a Original image is not based on that in the aforementioned embodiments limited reading device used; it can also be a one Still picture video camera or device using a video camera or means for inputting one through a computer graphics system generated image.
Embodiments of the present Invention can also have a combination of two or more of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments.
The present invention is not to the above embodiments limited and can be varied Modified within the scope of the appended claims become.
Image processing device ( 211 ; 2904 ; 8002 ) with: an input device for inputting image data; a processing facility ( 403 . 406 . 407 . 408 ) for processing the image data input by the input device and for outputting playback data for displaying the image represented by the image data; a first facility ( 409 ) to determine whether or not an image represented by the image data input by the input device is a predetermined copy-protected image or not; a storage device ( 903 ) that stores the device identifying data in electronically readable form; and a second facility ( 410 ; 2411 ; 7410 ) to access data stored in the storage device and to add information in the form of a code for identifying the device by means of which the image data are processed so that the device can be determined on the basis of the image reproduced from the playback data, the second device for adding information is designed such that it is difficult to distinguish with normal naked human eyes in the image reproduced from the reproduction data.
The device of claim 1, further comprising a control device ( 414 ; 2414 ; 7414 ) for controlling the addition of the information performed by the second device in accordance with the determination result of the first device.
The device of claim 1, wherein the first on direction is designed to carry out the determination based on a color distribution represented by the image data.
device according to claim 1, wherein the first device is configured to Determine the degree of conformity between the one entered by the input device Image data displayed image and a plurality of predetermined images.
device according to claim 1, wherein the second device is configured to Add the information as a yellow pattern.
device according to claim 1, wherein the second device is configured to repeatedly adding the information to playback data which is one match individual image.
The device of claim 1, wherein the second device is configured to access the storage device ( 903 ) in synchronism with the image processing by the processing device.
device according to claim 2, wherein the control device is configured to Controlling the addition level of the second device in accordance with the determination result of the first device.
device according to claim 2, wherein the control device is configured to Lock the addition of the information in accordance with the determination result the first establishment.
Image processing method with: an input step entering image data; a processing step of Processing the image data entered in the input step, and the Outputting playback data to reproduce the through the image data displayed image; a step of determining whether it is with an image data entered in the input step displayed image by a predetermined copy-protected image acts or not; and a step of reading in one Memory saved the device identifying data and adding information in the Form of a code to identify the device by means of which the image data processed so that the device based on the from the playback data reproduced image can be determined, the information in the way that it is added to normal bare human Eyes heavy in the image reproduced from the playback data is distinguishable.
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