Image processing device, image processing system, image processing method, and control program

Abstract

To provide an image processing device, an image processing system, an image processing method, and a control program, capable of improving the convenience of a user.SOLUTION: An image processing device includes: an acquisition part that acquires a plurality of input images in which a medium is imaged; an image processing part that executes image processing to a specific number of input images in the plurality of input images; and a notification part that notifies a user that the omission of the image processing or a change of an imaging method of the medium is recommended in the case where a degree that the image processing on the specific number of the input images is not required or a degree that the image processing is redundant satisfies a predetermined reference.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing device, an image processing system, an image processing method, and a control program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, image processing devices that process images captured from a medium have been used for various purposes. The image processing device is required to execute image processing such as detection processing of each piece of information so that information such as characters and barcodes in an image can be appropriately managed.

[0003] An image processing device is disclosed that performs skew correction processing on an original image when a read image is not a blank image, and does not perform skew correction processing on the original image when the read image is a blank image (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-128288 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] There is a demand for image processing devices that offer improved convenience to users.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing device, an image processing system, an image processing method, and a control program that can improve user convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An image processing device according to one aspect of the present invention has an acquisition unit that acquires multiple input images of a medium, an image processing unit that performs image processing on a specific number of the multiple input images, and a notification unit that notifies a user that it is recommended to omit image processing or change the method of imaging the medium if the degree to which image processing on the specific number of input images is unnecessary or redundant meets a predetermined criterion.

[0008] An image processing system according to one aspect of the present invention is an image processing system having an image reading device and an information processing device, wherein either the image reading device or the information processing device has an acquisition unit that acquires a plurality of input images of a medium, either the image reading device or the information processing device has an image processing unit that performs image processing on a specific number of the multiple input images, and either the image reading device or the information processing device has a notification unit that notifies a user that omission of image processing or a change in the method of imaging the medium is recommended when the degree to which image processing on the specific number of input images is unnecessary or redundant meets a predetermined criterion.

[0009] An image processing method according to one aspect of the present invention obtains a plurality of input images of a medium, performs image processing on a specific number of the plurality of input images, and, if the degree to which image processing is unnecessary or redundant for the specific number of input images meets a predetermined criterion, notifies a user that it is recommended to omit image processing or to change the imaging method of the medium.

[0010] A control program according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer control program that causes the computer to acquire multiple input images of a medium, perform image processing on a specific number of the multiple input images, and, if the degree to which the image processing on the specific number of input images is unnecessary or redundant satisfies a predetermined criterion, notify a user that it is recommended to omit the image processing or to change the method of imaging the medium. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, the image processing device, the image processing system, the image processing method, and the control program can improve the convenience for the user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a perspective view showing an image reading device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a transport path inside an image reading device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment; [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first storage device and a first processing circuit according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment; [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of an image reading process according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of an image reading process according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of display data of a recommendation screen according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of an image reading process according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a post-processing operation according to another embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a post-processing operation according to another embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first processing circuit according to another embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second storage device and a second processing circuit according to another embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second processing circuit according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, an image processing device, an image processing system, an image processing method, and a control program according to one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, it should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments, but extends to the inventions described in the claims and their equivalents.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment.

[0015] 1, the image processing system 1 includes one or more image reading devices 100 and one or more information processing devices 200. The image reading devices 100 and the information processing devices 200 are communicatively connected to each other via a network N. The network N is the Internet, an intranet, or the like. The image reading device 100 and the information processing device 200 are examples of the image processing device.

[0016] The image reading device 100 is an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) type scanner device that captures an image of a medium, for example, a document, while conveying the medium. The medium is paper, thin paper, thick paper, card, or the like. The medium includes various types of media, such as receipts, business cards, invoices, and delivery notes. The image reading device 100 may be a facsimile, a copier, a multifunction printer (MFP, Multifunction Peripheral), or the like. The image reading device 100 may also be a flatbed type device that captures an image of a medium without conveying the medium.

[0017] The information processing device 200 is a personal computer, a notebook personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, etc. The information processing device 200 may be a server provided in a cloud network.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an image reading device according to an embodiment.

[0019] The image reading device 100 includes a lower housing 101, an upper housing 102, a placement table 103, an ejection table 104, a first input device 105, and a first display device 106.

[0020] The upper housing 102 is disposed at a position that covers the top surface of the image reading device 100, and engages with the lower housing 101 by a hinge so as to be openable and closable when loading a medium or cleaning the inside of the image reading device 100, for example.

[0021] The placement stage 103 is engaged with the lower housing 101 so that the medium to be transported can be placed thereon. The discharge stage 104 is engaged with the lower housing 101 so that it can hold the medium discharged from the discharge port.

[0022] The first input device 105 has an input device such as a button and an interface circuit that acquires a signal from the input device, accepts an input operation by a user, and outputs an operation signal according to the user's input operation. The first display device 106 has a display such as a liquid crystal, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence), or the like, and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays the image data on the display.

[0023] 2, arrow A1 indicates the medium transport direction, arrow A2 indicates the width direction perpendicular to the medium transport direction, and arrow A3 indicates the height direction perpendicular to the medium transport direction and the width direction. In the following, upstream refers to the upstream side of the medium transport direction A1, and downstream refers to the downstream side of the medium transport direction A1.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a transport path inside the image reading device according to an embodiment.

[0025] The transport path inside the image reading device 100 includes a first medium sensor 111, a feed roller 112, a separation roller 113, a first transport roller 114, a second transport roller 115, a second medium sensor 116, an imaging device 117, a third transport roller 118, and a fourth transport roller 119. The number of each roller is not limited to one, and each roller may be multiple. In this case, each roller is arranged at intervals in the width direction A2. The feed roller 112, the separation roller 113, the first transport roller 114, the second transport roller 115, the third transport roller 118, and the fourth transport roller 119 are an example of a transport unit, and transport multiple media sequentially.

[0026] The image reading device 100 has a so-called straight path. The top surface of the lower housing 101 forms a lower guide 107a of the medium transport path, and the bottom surface of the upper housing 102 forms an upper guide 107b of the medium transport path.

[0027] The first medium sensor 111 is disposed upstream of the feed roller 112 and the separation roller 113. The first medium sensor 111 has a contact detection sensor and detects whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 103. The first medium sensor 111 generates and outputs a first medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 103. Note that the first medium sensor 111 is not limited to a contact detection sensor, and any other sensor capable of detecting the presence or absence of a medium, such as a light detection sensor, may be used as the first medium sensor 111.

[0028] The feed roller 112 is provided in the lower housing 101, and feeds the media placed on the placement table 103 from the bottom up. The separation roller 113 is a so-called brake roller or retard roller, and is provided in the upper housing 102, and is disposed opposite the feed roller 112. The feed roller 112 and the separation roller 113 function as a separation unit that separates the media. Note that a separation pad may be used instead of the separation roller 113.

[0029] The first transport roller 114 and the second transport roller 115 are disposed downstream of the feed roller 112 and the separation roller 113 and facing each other, and transport the medium fed by the feed roller 112 and the separation roller 113 to the imaging device 117.

[0030] The second medium sensor 116 is disposed downstream of the first transport roller 114 and the second transport roller 115 and upstream of the imaging device 117, and detects a medium transported to that position. The second medium sensor 116 includes a light emitter and a light receiver provided on one side of the medium transport path (for example, the lower housing 101), and a light guide tube provided at a position facing the light emitter and the light receiver across the medium transport path (for example, the upper housing 102). The light emitter is an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like, and irradiates light toward the medium transport path. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light irradiated by the light emitter and guided by the light guide tube. When a medium is present at a position facing the second medium sensor 116, the light irradiated from the light emitter is blocked by the medium, and therefore the light receiver does not detect the light irradiated from the light emitter. Based on the intensity of the received light, the light receiver generates and outputs a second medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether a medium is present or not at the position of the second medium sensor 116. There may be more than one second medium sensor 116. In that case, the second medium sensors 116 are arranged side by side at intervals in the width direction A2.

[0031] A reflective member such as a mirror may be used instead of the light guide tube. The light emitter and the light receiver may be disposed opposite each other across the medium transport path. The second medium sensor 116 may detect the presence of the medium using a contact detection sensor that passes a predetermined current when the medium is in contact or when the medium is not in contact.

[0032] The imaging device 117 is an example of an imaging section. The imaging device 117 is disposed downstream of the first conveyor roller 114 and the second conveyor roller 115 and upstream of the third conveyor roller 118 and the fourth conveyor roller 119. The imaging device 117 includes a first imaging device 117a and a second imaging device 117b. The first imaging device 117a and the second imaging device 117b are disposed near the medium conveying path and facing each other across the conveying path.

[0033] The first imaging device 117a has a light source and a line sensor using a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) of a life-size optical system type having imaging elements using CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. The first imaging device 117a also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging elements, and an A / D converter that amplifies and analog-to-digital (A / D) converts the electrical signal output from the imaging elements. The first imaging device 117a captures the surface of the medium transported sequentially by the transport unit to generate and output an input image.

[0034] Similarly, the second imaging device 117b has a light source and a line sensor using a CIS of a life-size optical system type having CMOS imaging elements linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. The second imaging device 117b also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging element and an A / D converter that amplifies and A / D converts the electrical signal output from the imaging element. The second imaging device 117b captures the back side of the media conveyed in sequence by the conveying unit to generate and output an input image.

[0035] The image reading device 100 may have only one of the first imaging device 117a and the second imaging device 117b arranged, and may read only one side of the medium. Also, instead of a CIS line sensor of an equal magnification optical system type having a CMOS imaging element, a CIS line sensor of an equal magnification optical system type having a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) imaging element may be used. Also, a reduction optical system type line sensor having a CMOS or CCD imaging element may be used.

[0036] The third conveyor roller 118 and the fourth conveyor roller 119 are disposed facing each other downstream of the imaging device 117 and discharge the medium conveyed by the first conveyor roller 114 and the second conveyor roller 115 onto the discharge tray 104.

[0037] The medium placed on the mounting table 103 is transported between the lower guide 107a and the upper guide 107b in the medium transport direction A1 by the rotation of the feed roller 112 in the direction of the arrow A4 in Fig. 3. The separation roller 113 rotates in the direction of the arrow A5 in Fig. 3 or stops when transporting the medium. When multiple media are placed on the mounting table 103, the feed roller 112 and the separation roller 113 function to separate only the media placed on the mounting table 103 that is in contact with the feed roller 112. This limits the transport of media other than the separated media (preventing double feeding).

[0038] The medium is fed between the first conveyor roller 114 and the second conveyor roller 115 while being guided by the lower guide 107a and the upper guide 107b. The medium is fed between the first imaging device 117a and the second imaging device 117b as the first conveyor roller 114 and the second conveyor roller 115 rotate in the directions of the arrows A6 and A7 in Fig. 3, respectively. The medium read by the imaging device 117 is discharged onto the discharge tray 104 as the third conveyor roller 118 and the fourth conveyor roller 119 rotate in the directions of the arrows A8 and A9 in Fig. 3, respectively.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0040] In addition to the above-mentioned components, the image reading device 100 further includes a motor 121, a first communication device 122, a first storage device 130, a first processing circuit 140, and the like.

[0041] The motor 121 includes one or more motors. The motor 121 rotates the feed roller 112, the separation roller 113, the first conveyor roller 114, the second conveyor roller 115, the third conveyor roller 118, and the fourth conveyor roller 119 in response to a control signal from the first processing circuit 140 to convey the medium. Note that one of the first conveyor roller 114 and the second conveyor roller 115 may be a driven roller that rotates following the other roller. Also, one of the third conveyor roller 118 and the fourth conveyor roller 119 may be a driven roller that rotates following the other roller.

[0042] The first communication device 122 has an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals, and a wireless communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wireless communication line according to a communication protocol such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). The first communication device 122 can communicate with the information processing device 200, and according to an instruction from the first processing circuit 140, communicates with the information processing device 200 to transmit and receive various images and information. The first communication device 122 may have a wired communication interface circuit according to a communication protocol such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol), and may be connected to the information processing device 200 via a network. The first communication device 122 may also have an interface circuit conforming to a serial bus such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus), and may be connected to the information processing device 200 via a wired cable such as a USB cable.

[0043] The first storage device 130 is an example of a storage unit. The first storage device 130 includes a memory device such as a random access memory (RAM) or a read only memory (ROM), a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as a flexible disk or an optical disk. The first storage device 130 stores computer programs, databases, tables, and the like used for various processes of the image reading device 100. The computer programs may be installed in the first storage device 130 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program or the like. The portable recording medium is, for example, a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM) or a digital versatile disc read only memory (DVD-ROM). The computer programs may be distributed from a server or the like and installed in the first storage device 130.

[0044] The first processing circuit 140 operates based on a program stored in advance in the first storage device 130. The first processing circuit 140 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). As the first processing circuit 140, a DSP (digital signal processor), an LSI (large scale integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like may be used.

[0045] The first processing circuit 140 is connected to the first input device 105, the first display device 106, the first medium sensor 111, the second medium sensor 116, the imaging device 117, the motor 121, the first communication device 122, the first storage device 130, and the like, and controls each of these components. The first processing circuit 140 performs drive control of the motor 121, image capture control of the imaging device 117, and the like, to acquire an input image. The first processing circuit 140 executes image processing on the acquired input image, and calculates the degree to which the image processing is unnecessary or redundant. If the calculated degree meets a predetermined standard, the first processing circuit 140 outputs a recommendation to omit image processing or change the imaging method of the medium to the first communication device 122 or the first display device 106, and notifies the user.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first storage device and a first processing circuit according to an embodiment.

[0047] 5, the first storage device 130 stores a control program 131, a notification program 132, an acquisition program 133, and an image processing program 134. Each of these programs is a functional module implemented by software that runs on a processor. The first processing circuit 140 reads each program stored in the first storage device 130 and operates according to the read programs, thereby functioning as a control unit 141, a notification unit 142, an acquisition unit 143, and an image processing unit 144.

[0048] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment.

[0049] The information processing device 200 includes a second input device 201, a second display device 202, a second communication device 203, a second storage device 210, a second processing circuit 220, and the like.

[0050] The second input device 201 has an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse, and an interface circuit that acquires a signal from the input device, and outputs to the second processing circuit 220 a signal according to an operation by the user.

[0051] The second display device 202 has a display such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like, and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays various types of information on the display according to instructions from the second processing circuit 220.

[0052] The second communication device 203 has an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals, and a wireless communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wireless communication line according to a predetermined communication protocol such as wireless LAN. The second communication device 203 is capable of communicating with the image reading device 100, and according to instructions from the second processing circuit 220, communicates with the image reading device 100 to transmit and receive various images and information. The second communication device 203 may have a wired communication interface circuit according to a communication protocol such as TCP / IP, and may be connected to the image reading device 100 via a network. The first communication device 122 may have an interface circuit conforming to a serial bus such as USB, and may be connected to the image reading device 100 via a wired cable such as a USB cable.

[0053] The second storage device 210 is an example of a storage unit. The second storage device 210 has a memory device such as a RAM or a ROM, a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as a flexible disk or an optical disk. The second storage device 210 stores computer programs, databases, tables, and the like used for various processes of the information processing device 200. The computer programs may be installed in the second storage device 210 from a computer-readable portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM using a known setup program or the like. The computer programs may also be distributed from a server or the like and installed in the second storage device 210.

[0054] The second processing circuit 220 operates based on a program previously stored in the second storage device 210. The second processing circuit 220 is, for example, a CPU. Note that the second processing circuit 220 may be, for example, a DSP, an LSI, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like.

[0055] The second processing circuit 220 is connected to the second input device 201, the second display device 202, the second communication device 203, the second storage device 210, etc., and controls each of these components. The second processing circuit 220 controls data transmission and reception with the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203, controls input of the second input device 201, controls display of the second display device 202, etc.

[0056] 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of an image reading process according to an embodiment.

[0057] An example of the operation of the image reading process of the image reading device according to one embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 7 and 8. The flow of the operation described below is executed mainly by the first processing circuit 140 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 100 based on a program stored in advance in the first storage device 130.

[0058] First, the control unit 141 waits until an instruction to read a medium is input by the user using the first input device 105 or the information processing device 200, and an operation signal instructing to read a medium is received from the first input device 105 or the first communication device 122 (step S101). The operation signal includes a profile specified by the user using the first input device 105 or the information processing device 200 together with the instruction to read. The profile is a setting related to the imaging process, the first image process, or the second image process, which is set by the user according to the purpose of the image to be generated or the type of medium to be imaged, etc.

[0059] The settings related to the imaging process are settings for defining the imaging method of the medium, and include, for example, resolution, reading surface, etc. Resolution is a setting of the resolution of the input image, and 150 dpi (Dots Per Inch), 200 dpi, 300 dpi, 600 dpi, 1200 dpi, etc. are set as the setting value of the resolution. The image reading device 100 can generate an input image having the set resolution by setting the medium transport speed in the imaging process, the imaging timing (time interval) of the imaging device 117, the position of the imaging element arranged in the line sensor to capture the image, etc. The reading surface is a setting of the surface of the medium to be imaged, and one side (front side only), both sides, etc. are set as the setting value of the reading surface.

[0060] The first image processing is an example of image processing, and may be unnecessary or redundant for some input images. The first image processing includes, for example, color determination, orientation correction, blank page detection, barcode recognition, OCR (Optical Character Recognition), and the like. The color determination is a process of determining whether the color components included in the input image are color, grayscale, or binary, and converting the gradation value of each pixel in the input image to a value corresponding to the determined color component. The orientation correction is a process of rotating the input image so that the orientation of the medium included in the input image is correct (upward). The blank page detection is a process of determining whether or not the input image includes blank pages, and deleting the input image including blank pages. The barcode recognition is a process of detecting a barcode from the input image. The OCR is a process of performing character recognition on the input image. When the profile specifies that barcode recognition or OCR is to be performed, the area (e.g., the entire area, the upper area, the middle area, the lower area, etc.) in the input image where the barcode recognition or OCR is to be performed is further specified.

[0061] On the other hand, the second image processing is different from the first image processing and needs to be performed on all input images. The second image processing includes, for example, cropping, color adjustment, etc. Cropping is a process of cutting out an area including a medium from an input image. Color adjustment is a process of adjusting the color in the input image.

[0062] In the profile, settings related to one or more imaging processes for generating an input image and / or one or more first image processes or second image processes to be executed on the input image are specified. The control unit 141 stores (sets) the settings related to the imaging processes, the first image processes and the second image processes specified in the profile in the first storage device 130. The profile further includes a setting for continuous reading. Continuous reading is a setting for continuing to read a new medium placed by the user after reading of all media placed on the placement table 103 has been completed.

[0063] Next, the notification unit 142 determines whether the profile specified in the current image reading process is the same as the profile specified in the previous image reading process (step S102). If the profile specified in the current image reading process is not the same as the profile specified in the previous image reading process, the notification unit 142 does not execute any particular process and proceeds to step S107.

[0064] On the other hand, if the profile specified in the current image reading process is the same as the profile specified in the previous image reading process, the notification unit 142 determines whether the recommendation flag is ON or not (step S103). A recommendation flag is set for each first image process or imaging process that can be specified in a profile. The initial value of each recommendation flag is set to OFF. Each recommendation flag is set to ON in the process described below when omission of the corresponding first image process or change in the imaging method of the medium, that is, change in the settings of the imaging process, is recommended. If the recommendation flag is OFF for all first image processes specified to be executed with the profile specified in the current image reading process, the notification unit 142 proceeds to step S107 without executing any particular process.

[0065] On the other hand, if the recommendation flag is ON for any of the first image processes specified to be executed with the profile specified in the current image reading process, the notification unit 142 generates display data for a recommendation screen. The notification unit 142 outputs the generated display data by displaying it on the first display device 106 or transmitting it to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122 (step S104). When the information processing device 200 receives display data from the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203, it displays the received display data on the second display device 202. Furthermore, the notification unit 142 sets the recommendation flag to OFF.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of display data of a recommendation screen according to an embodiment.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 9, the display data 900 of the recommendation screen includes text 901, recommended settings 902, current settings 903, a change button 904, an end button 905, and the like. The text 901 is a character string indicating that omission of the first image processing or a change of the imaging method of the medium is recommended. The recommended settings 902, the current settings 903, and the change button 904 are displayed for each first image processing recommended to be omitted or each imaging processing recommended to be changed. The recommended settings 902 are settings recommended for each first image processing or imaging processing. The current settings 903 are current settings for each first image processing or imaging processing. The change button 904 is a button for changing the current settings to the recommended settings for each first image processing or imaging processing. The end button 905 is a button for ending the display of the display data 900 of the recommendation screen.

[0068] Next, the notification unit 142 determines whether or not an instruction to omit the first image processing or change the imaging method of the medium has been received (step S105). When the end button 905 is pressed in a state in which any of the change buttons 904 is pressed by the user using the first input device 105 or the information processing device 200 in the display data 900 of the recommendation screen, the notification unit 142 receives an instruction to omit the first image processing or change the imaging method of the medium by receiving an instruction signal specifying the setting of the first image processing or imaging process corresponding to the pressed change button 904 from the first input device 105 or the first communication device 122. On the other hand, when the end button 905 is pressed in a state in which none of the change buttons 904 is pressed in the display data 900 of the recommendation screen, the notification unit 142 receives an instruction to end the display of the display data 900 of the recommendation screen. The notification unit 142 receives an end instruction signal from the first input device 105 or the first communication device 122, thereby accepting an instruction to end the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen.

[0069] When an instruction to end the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen is received, the notification unit 142 ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen and proceeds to step S107. When the display data 900 of the recommended screen is displayed on the information processing device 200, the notification unit 142 transmits a request signal requesting that the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen be ended to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122. When the information processing device 200 receives the request signal from the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203, it ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen.

[0070] On the other hand, when an instruction to omit the first image processing or change the imaging method of the medium is received, the notification unit 142 ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommendation screen. Furthermore, the notification unit 142 sets the omission of processing for each first image processing specified by the instruction signal, or changes the setting of each imaging processing specified by the instruction signal, i.e., the imaging method of the medium (step S106). The notification unit 142 changes the setting of the first image processing or imaging processing specified by the instruction signal, among the first image processing or imaging processing stored (set) in the first storage device 130, to the recommended setting 902 displayed in the display data 900 of the recommendation screen.

[0071] Next, control unit 141 waits until a medium is placed on mounting table 103 (step S107). Control unit 141 acquires a first medium signal from first medium sensor 111, and determines whether or not a medium is placed on mounting table 103 based on the acquired first medium signal.

[0072] Next, the control unit 141 drives the motor 121 to rotate the feed roller 112, the separation roller 113, the first conveyor roller 114, the second conveyor roller 115, the third conveyor roller 118, and / or the fourth conveyor roller 119 (step S108). In this way, the control unit 141 feeds and conveys the medium placed on the placement table 103. The control unit 141 controls the motor 121 so that an input image is generated according to the profile acquired in step S101, particularly so that the motor 121 rotates at a speed at which an image with a resolution specified in the profile can be generated. If the settings of the imaging process have been changed in step S106, the control unit 141 controls the motor 121 so that an input image is generated according to the changed settings.

[0073] Next, the acquisition unit 143 acquires an input image of the medium being conveyed from the imaging device 117 (step S109).

[0074] The acquisition unit 143 determines whether or not the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 116 based on, for example, the second medium signal received from the second medium sensor 116. The acquisition unit 143 periodically acquires the second medium signal from the second medium sensor 116, and determines that the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 116 when the signal value of the second medium signal changes from a value indicating that the medium is not present to a value indicating that the medium is present. The acquisition unit 143 causes the imaging device 117 to start imaging when the leading edge of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 116. The control unit 141 controls the imaging device 117 so that an input image is generated according to the profile acquired in step S101. If the settings of the imaging process have been changed in step S106, the control unit 141 controls the imaging device 117 so that an input image is generated according to the changed settings.

[0075] Thereafter, the acquisition unit 143 causes the imaging device 117 to end imaging when the trailing end of the medium passes the imaging position of the imaging device 117. For example, the acquisition unit 143 determines whether or not the trailing end of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 116 based on the second medium signal received from the second medium sensor 116. The acquisition unit 143 periodically acquires the second medium signal from the second medium sensor 116, and determines that the leading end of the medium has passed the position of the second medium sensor 116 when the signal value of the second medium signal changes from a value indicating that the medium is present to a value indicating that the medium is not present. The acquisition unit 143 determines that the trailing end of the medium has passed the imaging position of the imaging device 117 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the trailing end of the medium passed the position of the second medium sensor 116. The predetermined time is set to the time required for the medium to move from the position of the second medium sensor 116 to the imaging position.

[0076] The acquisition unit 143 acquires an input image from the imaging device 117 every time the imaging device 117 generates an input image for a predetermined number of lines, and synthesizes the input images when imaging device 117 is caused to end imaging. The control unit 141 may acquire input images for all lines collectively when imaging device 117 is caused to end imaging.

[0077] Next, the image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing and the second image processing on the input image (step S110). The image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing and the second image processing according to the profile acquired in step S101. If the omission of the first image processing is set in step S106, the image processing unit 144 executes each of the first image processing set to be omitted. That is, the image processing unit 144 does not execute all of the first image processing determined to be unnecessary and some of the first image processing determined to be redundant among the first image processing for which the instruction to omit has been received.

[0078] When color determination is designated as the first image processing to be executed, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the color components included in the input image are color or black and white based on the distribution of the color values ​​(R value, G value, B value, etc.) of each pixel in the input image. The image processing unit 144 calculates a variance value of the color values ​​of each pixel in the input image. If the average value of the calculated variance values ​​is equal to or greater than a predetermined color variance threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the color components included in the input image are color, and if the variance value is less than the color variance threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the color components included in the input image are black and white. If the color components are determined to be black and white, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the color components included in the input image are grayscale or binary based on the distribution of the luminance values ​​of each pixel in the input image. The image processing unit 144 calculates a variance value of the luminance values ​​of each pixel in the input image. If the calculated variance value is equal to or greater than a predetermined luminance variance threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the color components included in the input image are grayscale, and if the variance value is less than the luminance variance threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the color components included in the input image are binary. The image processing unit 144 converts the gradation value of each pixel in the input image so that it has a specified color component.

[0079] When orientation correction is specified as the first image processing to be performed, image processing unit 144 performs OCR while rotating the input image by 90 degrees at a time using a known image processing technique such as rotation processing. Image processing unit 144 determines that the orientation of the medium contained in the input image in which the most characters are detected is correct (upward), and rotates the input image so that the orientation of the medium is correct.

[0080] When blank page detection is specified as the first image processing to be executed, the image processing unit 144 extracts edge pixels in the input image whose difference in gradation value (brightness value or color value, etc.) with adjacent pixels is equal to or greater than a predetermined gradation threshold. The image processing unit 144 detects the largest area surrounded by adjacent edge pixels as the medium area. The image processing unit 144 determines whether or not the input image includes a blank page depending on whether or not the number of edge pixels included in the detected medium area is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. When the image processing unit 144 determines that the input image includes a blank page, it deletes the input image.

[0081] When barcode recognition is designated as the first image processing to be executed, the image processing unit 144 determines whether or not a barcode is included in an image by a classifier that is pre-trained to output whether or not a barcode is included in the image when the image is input. This classifier is pre-trained using a plurality of images including various barcodes, for example, by deep learning, and is stored in advance in the first storage device 130. The image processing unit 144 inputs to the classifier an area in the input image where barcode recognition is to be executed, which is designated, and determines whether or not a barcode is included in the designated area, based on the information output from the classifier.

[0082] When OCR is designated as the first image processing to be performed, the image processing unit 144 performs character recognition using known OCR techniques on the area in the input image designated for performing OCR.

[0083] When cropping is specified as the second image processing to be executed, the image processing unit 144 detects a medium area in the input image in the same manner as in the case of blank paper detection, and cuts out the detected medium area from the input image.

[0084] When color adjustment is specified as the second image processing to be performed, the image processing unit 144 performs color adjustment on the input image, for example, by performing gamma correction or by applying a predetermined filter such as a smoothing filter or an edge enhancement filter.

[0085] Each time the first image processing is executed, the notification unit 142 may output the execution result of each first image processing by displaying it on the first display device 106 or transmitting it to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122, and notify the user. In this case, the notification unit 142 outputs the total number of input images acquired up to now, the number of input images for each specified color component, the number of input images for each angle rotated by orientation correction, the number of input images containing blank paper, the number of input images in which a barcode is detected for each designatable area, the number of input images in which text is detected for each designatable area, etc. This allows the user to grasp the characteristics of each medium in real time.

[0086] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether or not each of the executed first image processes is unnecessary or redundant, and stores the determination result in the first storage device 130 (step S111).

[0087] Regarding color judgment, when the color components of the input image are color, the image processing unit 144 judges that it is unnecessary to convert the gradation value of each pixel in the input image, and judges that the first image processing is unnecessary. Also, when the color components of almost all of the media collectively placed on the placement table 103 are either grayscale or binary, there is a possibility that the gradation value of each pixel in the input image may be fixedly converted to grayscale or binary without judging the color components contained in the input image. Therefore, when the color components contained in the input image of a predetermined ratio or more are grayscale or binary, the image processing unit 144 judges that it is unnecessary to judge the color components contained in the input image, and judges that the first image processing is redundant.

[0088] Regarding orientation correction, if the orientation of the medium is correct without rotating the input image, image processing unit 144 determines that it is not necessary to correct the orientation of the medium, and determines that the first image processing is not necessary. Also, if the angle at which the input image is rotated to correct the orientation of the medium is the same for almost all media collectively placed on placement table 103, there is a possibility that the input image may be rotated by that angle in a fixed manner without detecting the orientation of the medium. Therefore, if the angle at which the input image is rotated by a predetermined percentage or more is the same, image processing unit 144 determines that it is not necessary to detect the orientation of the medium, and determines that the first image processing is redundant.

[0089] Regarding blank page detection, if blank pages are not included in the input images of almost all of the media placed together on the placement table 103, it may be unnecessary to delete the input images that include blank pages. Therefore, if a predetermined percentage or more of the input images do not include blank pages, the image processing unit 144 determines that it is unnecessary to delete the input images that include blank pages, and determines that the first image processing is unnecessary. Also, if one side of almost all of the media placed together on the placement table 103 is blank, both sides of the media are not imaged, and only one side is imaged, so it may be unnecessary to delete the input images that include blank pages. Therefore, if one side of a predetermined percentage or more of the media is blank, the image processing unit 144 determines that it is redundant to delete the input images that include blank pages, and determines that the first image processing is redundant.

[0090] Regarding barcode recognition, if a barcode is not detected in the input image, image processing unit 144 determines that barcode recognition processing is unnecessary and determines that the first image processing is unnecessary. Also, if a barcode exists only in an area smaller than the designated area among the areas that can be specified in the input image, it is sufficient to detect the barcode only in that small area. Therefore, image processing unit 144 determines that the first image processing is redundant if a barcode is detected only in an area smaller than the designated area among the areas that can be specified in the input image.

[0091] Regarding OCR, if the number of characters detected in the input image is less than a predetermined number, the image processing unit 144 determines that OCR processing is unnecessary and determines that the first image processing is unnecessary. The predetermined number is set to an arbitrary number equal to or greater than one. Also, if the characters to be detected exist only in an area smaller than the designated area among the areas that can be specified in the input image, it is sufficient to detect the characters only in the small area. Therefore, the image processing unit 144 determines that the first image processing is redundant if the predetermined number or more of characters are detected only in an area smaller than the designated area among the areas that can be specified in the input image.

[0092] Also, for OCR, if only large-sized characters exist, or if the character density (number of characters per specified area) is low, the resolution of the input image may be low. Therefore, if only characters of a specified size or larger exist and the resolution is a specified resolution or higher, the image processing unit 144 determines that the OCR for the high-resolution input image is redundant, and determines that the first image processing is redundant. If the character density is a specified density or lower and the resolution is a specified resolution or higher, the image processing unit 144 determines that the OCR for the high-resolution input image is redundant, and determines that the first image processing is redundant.

[0093] On the other hand, cropping and color adjustment should be performed for any medium, and therefore, for cropping and color adjustment, the image processor 144 determines that the first image processing is unnecessary or not redundant.

[0094] Next, the image processing unit 144 outputs the input image on which the first image processing and the second image processing have been performed by transmitting it to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122 (step S112). When the information processing device 200 receives the input image from the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203, it causes the second display device 202 to display the received input image.

[0095] Next, control unit 141 determines whether or not a medium remains on mounting table 103 based on the first medium signal received from first medium sensor 111 (step S113). If a medium remains on mounting table 103, control unit 141 returns the process to step S109, and repeats the processes of steps S109 to S113.

[0096] As a result, the acquisition unit 143 acquires a specific number of input images obtained by capturing images of a specific number of media placed together on the placement table 103 in the image reading device 100 and transported sequentially, and the image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing and the second image processing on the specific number of input images. The media placed together on the placement table 103 are likely to be the same type of media, and the input images captured of each medium are likely to have the same characteristics. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can determine with high accuracy whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant by using the input images captured of the media placed together on the placement table 103.

[0097] On the other hand, if no media remain on the placement table 103, the control unit 141 stops the motor 121, and stops the feed roller 112, the separation roller 113, the first conveyor roller 114, the second conveyor roller 115, the third conveyor roller 118, and the fourth conveyor roller 119 (step S114). This causes the control unit 141 to stop conveying the media.

[0098] Next, image processing unit 144 calculates the degree of unnecessaryness that the first image processing is unnecessary for the specific number of input images on which the first image processing is executed, and the degree of redundancy that the first image processing is redundant (step S115). Image processing unit 144 calculates the degree of unnecessaryness and the degree of redundancy for each of the first image processing that can be specified in the profile.

[0099] Regarding color judgment, the image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of the number of input images whose color components are color to the number of input images (specific number) on which the first image processing has been performed as the degree of unnecessaryness. Also, the image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of the maximum number of the number of input images whose color components are grayscale and the number of input images whose color components are binary to the number of input images (specific number) on which the first image processing has been performed as the degree of redundancy.

[0100] Regarding the orientation correction, the image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of the number of input images for which the medium orientation is correct when the input images are not rotated to the number of input images for which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of redundancy. The image processing unit 144 also classifies the input images for which the first image processing has been performed by the angle at which the input images have been rotated to correct the medium orientation, and identifies the maximum number of input images rotated by the same angle. The notification unit 142 calculates the ratio of the identified maximum number to the number of input images for which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of redundancy.

[0101] Regarding blank page detection, the image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of the number of input images that do not include blank pages to the number of input images (specific number) on which the first image processing has been performed as the degree of unnecessaryness. Also, the image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of the number of input images in which one side (specific side) of the medium is blank to the number of input images (specific number) on which the first image processing has been performed as the degree of unnecessaryness.

[0102] For barcode recognition, image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of input images in which a barcode is not detected to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of redundancy. Image processing unit 144 also counts the number of input images in which a barcode is not detected in areas other than each area that can be specified by the user. Image processing unit 144 specifies the area in which the number of counted input images is the largest as the first target area, and calculates the ratio of the number of input images counted for the first target area to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of redundancy.

[0103] Regarding OCR, image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of input images in which a predetermined number or more of characters are not detected to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of redundancy. Also, image processing unit 144 counts the number of input images in which a predetermined number or more of characters are not detected in each user-specifiable area other than that area. Image processing unit 144 specifies the area in which the number of counted input images is the largest as a second target area, and calculates the ratio of the number of input images counted for the second target area to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of redundancy.

[0104] Furthermore, the image processing unit 144 specifies the number of input images in which only characters of a predetermined size or larger exist and the resolution is equal to or higher than the predetermined resolution, or the number of input images in which the character density is equal to or lower than the predetermined density and the resolution is equal to or higher than the predetermined resolution. The image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of the number of specified input images to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (specified number) as the redundancy of OCR for the high-resolution input images.

[0105] The notification unit 142 may calculate the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy by multiplying each of the above ratios by a predetermined coefficient or adding or subtracting a predetermined offset therefrom.

[0106] Furthermore, the image processing unit 144 may calculate the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy based on feature information of the input image, rather than the execution result of the first image processing. That is, the image processing unit 144 may calculate the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy based on the feature information of the input image, regardless of whether the first image processing has been executed on the input image or not.

[0107] In this case, for color determination, the image processing unit 144 detects color components contained in the input image as feature information. For orientation correction, the image processing unit 144 detects the orientation of the medium contained in the input image as feature information. For blank paper detection, the image processing unit 144 detects whether or not the input image contains a blank paper as feature information.

[0108] For barcode recognition and OCR, the image processing unit 144 extracts edge pixels for each specified region in the same manner as in the case of blank paper detection. The image processing unit 144 determines whether or not an object exists in each region based on whether or not the number of edge pixels included in each region is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and detects whether or not an object exists in each region as feature information. If no object exists in the input image, the image processing unit 144 determines that the first image processing is unnecessary, and if an object exists only in an area smaller than the specified area among areas that can be specified in the input image, the image processing unit 144 determines that the first image processing is redundant. The image processing unit 144 calculates the ratio of input images that do not have an object to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (specific number) as the degree of unnecessaryness. In addition, the image processing unit 144 counts the maximum number of input images in which no object exists in areas other than each area that can be specified by the user. The image processing unit 144 identifies the area with the largest number of counted input images as the target area, and calculates the ratio of the number of counted input images for the target area to the number of input images on which the first image processing has been performed (identified number) as the degree of redundancy.

[0109] These allow the image processor 144 to more easily calculate the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy.

[0110] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy satisfies a predetermined criterion (step S116). The image processing unit 144 determines whether the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy satisfies a predetermined criterion for each of the first image processes that can be specified in the profile.

[0111] For example, when the degree of unnecessaryness is equal to or greater than the unnecessary threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the degree of unnecessaryness meets the predetermined criterion, and when the degree of unnecessaryness is less than the unnecessary threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the degree of unnecessaryness does not meet the predetermined criterion. The unnecessary threshold is set in advance to an arbitrary value greater than 0 and less than or equal to 1. When the unnecessary threshold is set to 1, the notification unit 142 determines that the degree of unnecessaryness meets the predetermined criterion when it is determined that the first image processing is unnecessary for all (a specific number of) input images. A different value may be set as the unnecessary threshold for each first image processing.

[0112] Furthermore, for example, when the redundancy degree is equal to or greater than the redundancy threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the redundancy degree meets the predetermined criterion, and when the redundancy degree is less than the unnecessary threshold, the image processing unit 144 determines that the redundancy degree does not meet the predetermined criterion. The redundancy threshold is set in advance to an arbitrary value greater than 0 and less than or equal to 1. When the redundancy threshold is set to 1, the image processing unit 144 determines that the redundancy degree meets the predetermined criterion when the first image processing is determined to be redundant for all (a specific number of) input images. A different value may be set as the redundancy threshold for each first image processing.

[0113] If the degree of unnecessaryness and the degree of redundancy do not satisfy the predetermined criteria for all of the first image processes, the notification unit 142 does not execute any particular process and moves the process to step S118.

[0114] On the other hand, if the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy of any of the first image processes meets a predetermined standard, the image processing unit 144 sets the recommendation flag for the corresponding first image process to ON (step S117). As a result, when the image reading process is re-executed using the same profile, in step S104, the notification unit 142 outputs display data of the recommendation screen and notifies the user that omission of the first image process or a change in the imaging method of the medium is recommended. That is, in the image reading device 100, after a specific number of input images are generated, when reading of a new medium is executed without changing the settings related to the imaging process, the first image process, or the second image process, the notification unit 142 notifies the user that omission of the first image process or a change in the imaging method of the medium is recommended.

[0115] When the image reading process is performed using the same profile, it is highly likely that the same type of medium will be imaged. Therefore, the first image process that is unnecessary or redundant for the medium imaged earlier is also highly likely to be unnecessary or redundant for the medium imaged later. When the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy meets a predetermined standard, the image reading device 100 notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the first image process or to change the imaging method of the medium. This allows the user to determine whether or not to execute the notified process as is. If the notified process needs to be executed as is, the user does not change the process, and if the notified process is unnecessary or redundant, the user can appropriately change the process to reduce the processing time of the image reading process. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can improve the convenience of the user.

[0116] When the degree of unnecessaryness of each first image processing method satisfies a predetermined standard, notification unit 142 sets the recommended setting to turning off that processing in the display data of the recommendation screen.

[0117] When the redundancy level for color judgment satisfies a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 sets a recommended setting in the display data of the recommended screen to fixedly convert the gradation value of each pixel in the input image to have a color component contained in the most input image of the specific number of input images.When the redundancy level for orientation correction satisfies a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 sets a recommended setting in the display data of the recommended screen to fixedly rotate the most input image of the specific number of input images by an angle by which the most input image is rotated.When the redundancy level for blank page detection satisfies a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 sets a recommended setting in the display data of the recommended screen to set the reading side to one side.

[0118] When the redundancy level of barcode recognition satisfies a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 recommends limiting the barcode detection area to the first target area in the display data of the recommended screen. When the redundancy level of OCR satisfies a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 recommends limiting the character detection area to the second target area in the display data of the recommended screen. When the redundancy level of OCR for a high-resolution input image satisfies a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 recommends setting the resolution to less than the predetermined resolution in the display data of the recommended screen.

[0119] Next, the control unit 141 determines whether or not continuous reading is enabled in the profile acquired in step S101 (step S118). If continuous reading is enabled, the control unit 141 returns the process to step S103 and repeats the processes from step S103 onward. As a result, if the recommendation flag is set to ON, the notification unit 142 outputs display data of a recommendation screen in step S104 and notifies the user that omission of the first image processing or a change in the imaging method of the medium is recommended. Then, when a new medium is placed on the placement table 103 by the user, continuous reading is executed. On the other hand, if continuous reading is disabled, the control unit 141 ends the series of steps.

[0120] When continuous reading is enabled or when image reading processing is performed continuously using the same profile, the acquisition unit 143 acquires multiple input images according to the same profile. In this case, the image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing on a specific number of input images among the multiple input images acquired by the acquisition unit 143. When the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy of the specific number of input images on which the first image processing is performed meets a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 notifies the user that the first image processing is omitted or the imaging method is recommended to be changed. This allows the user to determine whether or not to execute the notified processing as it is. If the notified processing needs to be executed as it is, the user does not change the processing, and if the notified processing is unnecessary or redundant, the user can appropriately change the processing to reduce the processing time of the image reading processing. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can improve the convenience of the user.

[0121] Note that the image processing unit 144 may calculate only one of the degree of unnecessaryness and the degree of redundancy in step S115, and determine whether or not only one of the degree of unnecessaryness and the degree of redundancy satisfies a predetermined criterion in step S116. Furthermore, the image processing unit 144 may determine whether or not the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy satisfies a predetermined criterion for at least one of the first image processes, rather than determining whether or not the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy satisfies a predetermined criterion for all of the first image processes.

[0122] Furthermore, the notification unit 142 may notify the user that omission of the first image processing or a change in the medium imaging method is recommended regardless of whether or not continuous reading is performed. In this case, in step S117, the notification unit 142 may output display data of a recommendation screen.

[0123] Furthermore, even if the image reading process is not executed consecutively, the notification unit 142 may notify the user that omission of the first image process or a change in the medium imaging method is recommended. In this case, in step S117, the notification unit 142 associates a recommendation flag with the profile and stores it in the first storage device 130. The process of step S102 is omitted, and in step S103, the notification unit 142 determines whether the recommendation flag associated with the profile specified in the current image reading process is ON. If the recommendation flag is ON, in step S104, the notification unit 142 displays display data of the recommendation screen.

[0124] As described above in detail, when a specific first image process is unnecessary or redundant for a specific number of input images, the image reading device 100 recommends to the user to omit the first image process or to change the method of imaging the medium. This allows the user to not change the process if it is necessary to execute the process as is, and to appropriately change the process if the process is unnecessary or redundant, thereby reducing the processing time of the image reading process. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can improve the convenience for the user.

[0125] In particular, when the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant for media placed together on the placement table 103, the image reading device 100 recommends to the user to omit the first image processing or change the imaging method for media subsequently placed on the placement table 103 without changing the settings. Media subsequently imaged without changing the settings are likely to have similar characteristics to the medium imaged immediately before. Therefore, the image reading device 100 omits unnecessary or redundant processing for media subsequently imaged based on the characteristics of the medium imaged immediately before, thereby further reducing the processing time of the image reading process.

[0126] That is, the image reading device 100 recommends the user to skip image processing or change the imaging method while media having similar characteristics are being imaged in succession, which allows the image reading device 100 to appropriately change settings before imaging of all media is completed, thereby reducing the processing time of the image reading process.

[0127] Moreover, the image reading device 100 can reduce power consumption by omitting unnecessary or redundant first image processing. Moreover, the image reading device 100 can unify the quality of generated input images by omitting unnecessary or redundant first image processing.

[0128] Generally, when a medium reading process takes a long time, the user cannot recognize which has a greater impact: capturing the image of the medium or the subsequent image processing. When unnecessary or redundant image processing is found, the image reading device 100 recommends the user to omit the image processing, so that the user can understand the unnecessary or redundant image processing and deepen their knowledge of image processing. This allows the user to set a profile appropriately thereafter, and the image reading device 100 can improve the user's convenience.

[0129] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an image reading process of an image reading apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0130] An example of the operation of the image reading process of the image reading device according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 10. The flow of the operation described below is executed mainly by the first processing circuit 140 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 100 based on a program stored in advance in the first storage device 130.

[0131] First, the control unit 141 waits until an operation signal is received, similarly to the process of step S101 in FIG. 7 (step S201).

[0132] Next, the control unit 141 waits until a medium is placed on the placement table 103, similarly to the process of step S107 in FIG. 7 (step S202).

[0133] Next, the control unit 141 rotates each roller to feed and transport the medium placed on the placement table 103 in the same manner as in the process of step S108 in FIG. 7 (step S203).

[0134] Next, the control unit 141 acquires an input image from the imaging device 117, similar to the process of step S109 in FIG. 7, and stores it in the first storage device 130 (step S204).

[0135] Next, the control unit 141 determines whether or not a medium remains on the mounting table 103 (step S205) in the same manner as in the process of step S113 in Fig. 7. If a medium remains on the mounting table 103, the control unit 141 returns the process to step S201, and repeats the processes of steps S201 to S205. As a result, in step S204, the acquisition unit 143 acquires a plurality of input images in which the medium is captured.

[0136] On the other hand, if there are no media remaining on mounting table 103, control unit 141 stops each roller to stop transport of the media (step S206), similar to the process of step S114, and ends the series of steps.

[0137] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the post-processing operation of the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0138] An example of the post-processing operation of the image reading device according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 11. The flow of the operation described below is executed mainly by the first processing circuit 140 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 100 based on a program previously stored in the first storage device 130. The flowchart shown in Fig. 11 is executed in parallel with the flowchart shown in Fig. 10.

[0139] First, the image processing unit 144 reads from the first storage device 130 an input image acquired in step S204 of FIG. 10 that has not been subjected to the second image processing, i.e., an input image that has not been subjected to either the first image processing or the second image processing (step S301).

[0140] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the number of input images on which the second image processing has been performed up to now, i.e., the number of input images on which either the first image processing or the second image processing has been performed, is equal to or less than a specific number (step S302). Hereinafter, the number of input images on which the second image processing has been performed up to now may be referred to as the number of processed images.

[0141] If the number of images to be processed is equal to or less than the specific number, the image processing unit 144 executes all of the first image processing and the second image processing instructed to be executed in the profile acquired in step S201 of Fig. 10 on the read input images (step S303). The image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing and the second image processing in the same manner as the processing in step S110 of Fig. 7. The image processing unit 144 also outputs the input images on which the first image processing and the second image processing have been executed in the same manner as the processing in step S112 of Fig. 7. In this way, the image processing unit 144 continuously executes the first image processing and the second image processing on the specific number of input images.

[0142] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether or not each of the executed first image processes is unnecessary or redundant, similarly to the process of step S111 in FIG. 7, and stores the determination result in the first storage device 130 (step S304).

[0143] Next, the image processing unit 144 calculates the time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing in step S303, and stores it in the first storage device 130 (step S305).

[0144] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the number of processed images is a specific number (step S306). If the number of processed images is not the specific number, that is, if the number of processed images is less than the specific number, the image processing unit 144 does not execute any particular process and proceeds to step S312.

[0145] On the other hand, if the number of processed images is a specific number, the image processor 144 judges whether the total time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing for the input image in which the specific number of media are captured is equal to or less than the total time required to transport the specific number of media (step S307). If the total time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing is equal to or less than the total time required to transport the media, the image processor 144 judges that there is no problem in executing the first image processing at the current pace, and proceeds to step S312 without executing any particular processing.

[0146] On the other hand, if the total time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing is greater than the total time required to transport the medium, the notification unit 142 calculates the degree of unnecessaryness and the degree of redundancy in a manner similar to the processing of step S115 in FIG. 8 (step S308).

[0147] Next, the notification unit 142 determines whether the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy meets a predetermined criterion (step S309) in the same manner as the process of step S116 in Fig. 8. If the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy does not meet the predetermined criterion, the notification unit 142 does not execute any particular process and proceeds to step S312.

[0148] On the other hand, if the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy meets the predetermined criterion, the notification unit 142 sets the first image process whose degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy meets the predetermined criterion as a pending image process whose execution is suspended (step S310).

[0149] On the other hand, if the number of processed images is greater than the specific number in step S302, the image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing and the second image processing other than the reserved image processing, among the image processing instructed to be executed in the profile, for the read input image (step S311). The image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing and the second image processing other than the reserved image processing, similar to the processing of step S110 in FIG. 7. In this way, when the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy for the specific number of input images meets a predetermined standard, the image processing unit 144 executes the second image processing while skipping the first image processing for the input images other than the specific number of input images. If the reserved image processing is not set, the image processing unit 144 outputs the input image on which the first image processing and the second image processing have been executed, similar to the processing of step S112 in FIG. 7.

[0150] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether or not there remains any input image for which the first image processing other than the pending image processing and the second image processing have not been performed (step S312). If there remains any input image for which the first image processing other than the pending image processing and the second image processing have not been performed, the image processing unit 144 returns the process to step S301 and repeats the processes from step S301 onward.

[0151] As a result, the image processing unit 144 performs a first image processing on at least a specific number of the multiple input images acquired by the acquisition unit 143, and performs a second image processing on the multiple input images acquired by the acquisition unit 143, i.e., all of the input images.

[0152] On the other hand, if there is no input image remaining for which the first image processing other than the reserved image processing and the second image processing have not been performed, the image processing unit 144 determines whether or not there is an input image for which the reserved image processing has not been performed (step S313). If there is no input image for which the reserved image processing has not been performed, the image processing unit 144 ends the series of steps.

[0153] On the other hand, if there is an input image for which the pending image processing has not been performed, the notification unit 142 generates display data for a recommendation screen and outputs the generated display data (step S314) in the same manner as the processing in step S104 in Fig. 7. However, in this embodiment, since the imaging of the medium is performed asynchronously with the first image processing, the notification unit 142 does not recommend to the user in the display data of the recommendation screen to change the imaging method of the medium.

[0154] If there is an input image for which pending image processing has not been performed, it is determined in step S309 that the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy meets a predetermined criterion. That is, if the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy for a specific number of input images meets a predetermined criterion, the notification unit 142 notifies the user that omission of the first image processing is recommended. If the notified first image processing is necessary, the user can continue the execution of the first image processing, and if the notified first image processing is unnecessary or redundant, the user can omit part or all of the first image processing to reduce the processing time of the image reading processing. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can improve the convenience for the user.

[0155] In particular, the notification unit 142 notifies the user that omission of the first image processing is recommended after the second image processing is completed for the multiple input images acquired by the acquisition unit 143, i.e., all the input images. This allows the user to consider whether or not to continue the first image processing that has been determined to be unnecessary or redundant, while taking into consideration the time required up to now for medium transport and the required second image processing. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can further improve the convenience for the user.

[0156] In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 can preset a specific number for determining whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can prevent the first image processing from being performed on a large number of input images, and can accurately determine whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant.

[0157] Next, the notification unit 142 determines whether or not an instruction to omit the first image processing has been received, similarly to the processing in step S105 in FIG. 7 (step S315).

[0158] When an instruction to end the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen is received, the notification unit 142 ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen in the same manner as the processing of step S105 in Fig. 7. The image processing unit 144 executes pending image processing for each input image for which pending image processing has not been executed (step S316), and ends the series of steps. The image processing unit 144 executes pending image processing in the same manner as the processing of step S110 in Fig. 7. Furthermore, the image processing unit 144 outputs the input image for which the pending image processing has been executed in the same manner as the processing of step S112 in Fig. 7.

[0159] On the other hand, when an instruction to omit the first image process is received, the notification unit 142 ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen, and sets the omission of the process for each reserved image process specified by the instruction signal, in the same manner as the process of step S106 in FIG. 7. The image processing unit 144 executes each reserved image process for which the omission of the process is set for each input image for which the reserved image process has not been executed (step S317), and ends the series of steps. The image processing unit 144 executes the reserved image process for which the omission of the process is set, in the same manner as the process of step S110 in FIG. 7. The image processing unit 144 does not execute all of the reserved image processes determined to be unnecessary and some of the reserved image processes determined to be redundant among the reserved image processes for which the instruction to omit is received. Furthermore, the image processing unit 144 outputs the input image for which the reserved image process has been executed, in the same manner as the process of step S112 in FIG. 7.

[0160] The processes in steps S305 and S307 may be omitted.

[0161] As described above in detail, the image reading device 100 is capable of improving user convenience even when notifying the user that it is recommended to omit the first image processing after the second image processing for multiple input images has been completed.

[0162] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the post-processing operation of an image reading apparatus according to still another embodiment.

[0163] An example of the post-processing operation of the image reading device according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 12. The flow of the operation described below is executed mainly by the first processing circuit 140 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 100 based on a program previously stored in the first storage device 130. The flowchart shown in Fig. 12 is executed in parallel with the flowchart shown in Fig. 10, instead of the flowchart shown in Fig. 11.

[0164] First, the image processing unit 144 determines whether or not there remains any input image on which the second image processing has not been performed among the input images acquired in step S204 of FIG. 10 in the first storage device 130 (step S401).

[0165] When an input image for which the second image processing has not been performed remains, the image processing unit 144 reads out the input image for which the second image processing has not been performed from the first storage device 130. The image processing unit 144 performs the second image processing on the read input image in the same manner as the processing in step S110 in Fig. 7 (step S402).

[0166] Next, image processing unit 144 calculates the time required to execute the second image processing in step S402, stores it in first storage device 130 (step S403), and proceeds to step S407. Note that if the number of input images on which the first image processing has been executed to date exceeds a specific number, the processing of step S403 may be omitted. Hereinafter, the number of input images on which the first image processing has been executed to date may be referred to as the number of processed images.

[0167] On the other hand, if there is no input image on which the second image processing has not been performed in step S401, the image processing unit 144 reads out from the first storage device 130 an input image on which the second image processing has been performed and on which the first image processing has not been performed. The image processing unit 144 performs the first image processing on the read-out input image in the same manner as the processing in step S110 of FIG. 7 (step S404). Note that, if the omission of the first image processing is set in step S413 described later, the image processing unit 144 performs each of the first image processing for which the omission of the processing is set on the input image. That is, the image processing unit 144 does not perform all of the first image processing determined to be unnecessary and some of the first image processing determined to be redundant among the first image processing for which the instruction to omit has been received. Also, the image processing unit 144 outputs the input image on which the first image processing and the second image processing have been performed in the same manner as the processing in step S112.

[0168] In this way, the image processing unit 144 executes the second image processing asynchronously with the first image processing, that is, at a different timing from the first image processing, and with priority over the first image processing. As a result, the image processing unit 144 executes the required second image processing with priority, and executes the first image processing that may change depending on the characteristics of the medium when there is time between executions of the second image processing. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can execute each image processing more efficiently. When the user is notified in the process described below that the omission of the first image processing is recommended, the user can consider whether or not to execute the first image processing that has been determined to be unnecessary or redundant as it is, taking into account the time required for medium conveyance and the required second image processing up to that point. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can further improve the convenience of the user.

[0169] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether each of the first image processes that has been executed is unnecessary or redundant, similarly to the process of step S111 in Fig. 7, and stores the determination result in the first storage device 130 (step S405). Note that, if the number of processed images exceeds a specific number, the process of step S405 may be omitted.

[0170] Next, the image processing unit 144 calculates the time required to execute the first image processing in step S404, stores it in the first storage device 130 (step S406), and proceeds to step S407. Note that if the number of processed images exceeds a specific number, the process of step S406 may be omitted.

[0171] Next, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the number of processed images is equal to or less than the specific number (step S407). If the number of processed images is less than the specific number, or if the number of processed images exceeds the specific number, the image processing unit 144 does not execute any particular process and proceeds to step S414.

[0172] On the other hand, if the number of processed images is equal to or less than the specific number, the image processing unit 144 judges whether the total time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing for the input images in which the specific number of media are captured is equal to or less than the total time required to transport the specific number of media (step S408). The image processing unit 144 calculates the total time required to execute the second image processing for the input images in which the specific number of media are captured by multiplying the average value of the time required to execute the second image processing calculated up to now in step S402 by the specific number. In addition, the image processing unit 144 calculates the total time required to transport the specific number of media by multiplying the average value of the time required to transport the media for the media transported up to now by the specific number. If the total time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing is equal to or less than the total time required to transport the media, the image processing unit 144 judges that there is no problem in executing the first image processing at the current pace, and proceeds to step S414 without executing any particular processing.

[0173] On the other hand, if the total time required to execute the first image processing and the second image processing is greater than the total time required to transport the medium, the notification unit 142 calculates the degree of unnecessaryness and the degree of redundancy in a manner similar to the processing of step S115 in FIG. 8 (step S409).

[0174] Next, the notification unit 142 determines whether the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy meets a predetermined criterion (step S410) in the same manner as the process of step S116 in Fig. 8. If the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy does not meet the predetermined criterion, the notification unit 142 does not execute any particular process and proceeds to step S414.

[0175] On the other hand, if the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy satisfies a predetermined criterion, the notification unit 142 generates display data for a recommendation screen, similar to the process of step S104 in Fig. 7, and outputs the generated display data (step S411). However, in this embodiment, since the imaging of the medium is performed asynchronously with the first image processing, the notification unit 142 does not recommend to the user in the display data of the recommendation screen to change the imaging method of the medium.

[0176] In this way, when the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy for a certain number of input images meets a predetermined standard, notification unit 142 notifies the user that omission of the first image processing is recommended. If the notified first image processing is necessary, the user can continue execution of the first image processing, and if the notified first image processing is unnecessary or redundant, the user can omit part or all of the first image processing to reduce the processing time of the image reading processing. Therefore, image reading device 100 can improve the convenience for the user.

[0177] In particular, the notification unit 142 executes the second image processing for a plurality of input images acquired by the acquisition unit 143 asynchronously with the first image processing, that is, at a different timing from the first image processing. When the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy for a specific number of input images meets a predetermined standard at the time when the first image processing for the specific number of input images is completed, the notification unit 142 notifies the user that omission of the first image processing is recommended. As a result, the image reading device 100 can execute the first image processing asynchronously with the second image processing, and then determine whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant after executing the first image processing a number of times appropriate for determining whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can determine whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant at an appropriate timing while efficiently executing each image processing.

[0178] Furthermore, the notification unit 142 notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the first image processing, regardless of whether the second image processing has been completed for the multiple input images acquired by the acquisition unit 143. This allows the image reading device 100 to efficiently execute each image processing, and to determine at an appropriate time whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant.

[0179] In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 can preset a specific number for determining whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can prevent the first image processing from being performed on a large number of input images, and can accurately determine whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant.

[0180] Next, the notification unit 142 determines whether or not an instruction to omit the first image processing has been received (step S412), similar to the processing in step S105 in Fig. 7. If an instruction to end the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen has been received, the notification unit 142 ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen, similar to the processing in step S105 in Fig. 7, and proceeds to the processing in step S414.

[0181] On the other hand, when an instruction to omit the first image processing is received, the notification unit 142 ends the display of the display data 900 of the recommended screen, similar to the process of step S106 in Fig. 7. Then, the notification unit 142 sets the omission of processing for each of the first image processing specified by the instruction signal (step S413).

[0182] Next, the image processing unit 144 judges whether or not there remains any input image on which the first image processing other than the first image processing determined to be unnecessary and the second image processing have not been performed (step S414). If there remains any input image on which the first image processing other than the first image processing determined to be unnecessary and the second image processing have not been performed, the image processing unit 144 returns to the process of step S401 and repeats the processes from step S401 onward.

[0183] As a result, image processing unit 144 executes the first image processing on at least a specific number of the multiple input images acquired by acquisition unit 143, and executes the second image processing on the multiple input images, i.e., all the input images, acquired by acquisition unit 143. On the other hand, if there are no input images remaining on which the first image processing other than the first image processing determined to be unnecessary and the second image processing have not been executed, image processing unit 144 ends the series of steps.

[0184] As described in step S115 of FIG. 7, the image processing unit 144 may calculate the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy based on the feature information of the input image, not on the execution result of the first image processing, in step S409. That is, the image processing unit 144 may calculate the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy based on the feature information of the input image, regardless of whether the first image processing has been executed on the input image. In that case, for example, the image processing unit 144 executes the second image processing and detects the feature information of the input image in step S402. In step S407, the image processing unit 144 determines whether the number of input images whose feature information has been detected so far is a specific number, and if the number of input images whose feature information has been detected so far is the specific number, the process proceeds to step S408.

[0185] This allows image processing unit 144 to determine whether the first image processing is unnecessary or redundant without executing the first image processing on a specific number of input images. As a result, image processing unit 144 does not need to execute the first image processing on a specific number of input images, and the time required for medium reading can be further reduced.

[0186] Furthermore, the image processing unit 144 may execute the first image processing in a task separate from the second image processing. Furthermore, the processes of steps S403, S406, and S408 may be omitted.

[0187] As described above in detail, even when the image reading device 100 executes the second image processing asynchronously with the first image processing and notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the first image processing, the image reading device 100 is able to improve user convenience.

[0188] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first processing circuit 340 in an image reading device according to another embodiment.

[0189] The first processing circuit 340 is used in place of the first processing circuit 140, and executes image reading processing, etc. The first processing circuit 340 includes a control circuit 341, a notification circuit 342, an acquisition circuit 343, an image processing circuit 344, and the like.

[0190] The control circuit 341 is an example of a control unit, and has the same functions as the control unit 141. The control circuit 341 receives an operation signal from the first input device 105 or the first communication device 122, a first medium signal from the first medium sensor 111, and a second medium signal from the second medium sensor 116. The control circuit 341 controls the motor 121 based on each of the received signals.

[0191] The notification circuit 342 is an example of a notification unit, and has the same function as the notification unit 142. The notification circuit 342 reads out the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy from the first storage device 130, generates display data for a recommended screen based on each piece of information read out, and outputs the display data to the first display device 106 or the first communication device 122.

[0192] The acquisition circuit 343 is an example of an acquisition section, and has the same function as the acquisition section 143. The acquisition circuit 343 acquires an input image from the imaging device 117, and stores it in the first storage device .

[0193] The image processing circuit 344 is an example of an image processing unit, and has the same functions as the image processing unit 144. The image processing circuit 344 reads the input image from the first storage device 130, executes the first image processing and the second image processing, calculates the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy, and stores it in the first storage device 130. The image processing circuit 344 also outputs the input image to the first communication device 122.

[0194] As described above in detail, even when the image reading device uses the first processing circuit 340, it is possible to improve the convenience for the user.

[0195] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second storage device 410 and a second processing circuit 420 in an information processing device according to still another embodiment.

[0196] 14, the second storage device 410 stores a control program 411, a notification program 412, an acquisition program 413, and an image processing program 414. Each of these programs is a functional module implemented by software that runs on a processor. The second processing circuit 420 reads each program stored in the first storage device 130 and operates according to the read programs, thereby functioning as a control unit 421, a notification unit 422, an acquisition unit 423, and an image processing unit 424.

[0197] The control unit 421, the notification unit 422, the acquisition unit 423, and the image processing unit 424 have the same functions as the control unit 141, the notification unit 142, the acquisition unit 143, and the image processing unit 144 of the image reading device 100, respectively. The second storage device 410 stores each data stored in the first storage device 130. The processes of steps S101 to S106, S108 to S112, and S114 to S118 of the image reading process in Figs. 7 and 8, the processes of steps S201, S203 to S204, and S206 of the image reading process in Fig. 10, the processes of steps S301 to S317 of the post-processing in Fig. 11, and the processes of steps S401 to S414 of the post-processing in Fig. 12 are executed by the control unit 421, the notification unit 422, the acquisition unit 423, and the image processing unit 424.

[0198] In steps S101 and S201, the control unit 421 waits until a user inputs an instruction to read a medium using the second input device 201 and receives an operation signal from the second input device 201. The control unit 421 transmits the received operation signal to the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203.

[0199] In steps S104, S314, and S414, the notification unit 422 outputs the display data of the recommendation screen by displaying it on the second display device 202.

[0200] In steps S105, S315, and S412, the notification unit 142 receives an instruction signal from the second input device 201, thereby accepting an instruction to omit the first image processing or to change the imaging method of the medium.

[0201] In steps S106, S317, and S413, the notification unit 142 changes each piece of information stored in the second storage device 410 to set omission of the first image processing or to change the imaging method of the medium.

[0202] In steps S108 and S203, the control unit 421 transmits a request signal requesting that the motor 121 be driven to the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203. The control unit 141 of the image reading device 100 receives the request signal from the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122, and drives the motor 121 in accordance with the received request signal. This causes the control unit 421 to feed and transport the medium.

[0203] In steps S109 and S204, the acquisition unit 143 transmits the input image to the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122. The acquisition unit 423 acquires the input image by receiving it from the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203, and stores it in the second storage device 410.

[0204] In steps S112, S303, S311, S316, S317, and S404, image processing unit 424 outputs the input image by displaying it on second display device 202.

[0205] In steps S114 and S206, the control unit 421 transmits a request signal requesting that the motor 121 be stopped to the image reading device 100 via the second communication device 203. The control unit 141 of the image reading device 100 receives the request signal from the information processing device 200 via the first communication device 122, and stops the motor 121 in accordance with the received request signal. As a result, the control unit 421 stops the image generation process by the image reading device 100 that generated the input image.

[0206] In step S301, the image processing unit 144 reads an input image from the second storage device 210.

[0207] Note that some of the processes executed by the respective units of the information processing device described above may be executed by the corresponding units of the image reading device.

[0208] As described above in detail, the image processing system can improve user convenience even in the case where the information processing device executes part of the image reading process and post-processing.

[0209] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second processing circuit 520 in an information processing device according to still another embodiment.

[0210] The second processing circuit 520 is used in place of the second processing circuit 420, and executes image reading processing, etc. The second processing circuit 520 has a control circuit 521, a notification circuit 522, an acquisition circuit 523, an image processing circuit 524, and the like.

[0211] The control circuit 521 is an example of a control unit, and has the same functions as the control unit 421. The control circuit 521 receives an operation signal from the second input device 201, and outputs the received operation signal to the second communication device 203.

[0212] The notification circuit 522 is an example of a notification unit, and has the same function as the notification unit 422. The notification circuit 522 reads out the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy from the second storage device 210, generates display data for a recommended screen based on each piece of information read out, and outputs the display data to the second display device 202.

[0213] The acquisition circuit 523 is an example of an acquisition unit, and has the same function as the acquisition unit 423. The acquisition circuit 523 receives an input image from the second communication device 203, and stores it in the second storage device 210.

[0214] The image processing circuit 524 is an example of an image processing unit, and has the same functions as the image processing unit 424. The image processing circuit 524 reads out the input image from the second storage device 210, executes the first image processing and the second image processing, calculates the degree of unnecessaryness or redundancy, and stores it in the second storage device 210. The image processing circuit 524 also outputs the input image to the second display device 202.

[0215] As described above in detail, even when the information processing device uses the second processing circuit 520, it is possible to improve the convenience for the user.

[0216] Although the preferred embodiments have been described above, the embodiments are not limited to these. For example, when the degree of unnecessaryness or the degree of redundancy meets a predetermined standard, the notification unit 142 may set the omission of the first image processing or change the imaging method of the medium without notifying the user that the omission of the first image processing or the change of the imaging method of the medium is recommended.

[0217] The image reading device may also have a so-called U-turn path, which feeds and transports the media placed on the placement table in order from the top, and discharges the media onto the discharge table. [Explanation of symbols]

[0218] 1 Image processing system, 100 Image reading device, 130 First storage device, 141, 421 Control unit, 142, 422 Notification unit, 143, 423 Acquisition unit, 144, 424 Image processing unit, 200 Information processing device, 210 Second storage device

Claims

1. A computer control program, Acquire multiple input images in which the medium has been captured, Image processing is performed on the aforementioned multiple input images. Based on the number of input images for which the image processing is unnecessary, the system notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the image processing or change the imaging method of the medium. A control program characterized by causing the computer to perform the following action.

2. The control program according to claim 1, wherein in the notification, if, after the plurality of input images have been generated in the image reading device, a new medium reading is performed without changing the imaging process or the settings related to image processing, the user is notified that it is recommended to omit the image processing or change the imaging method of the medium.

3. The control program according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, in the acquisition described above, the control program acquires input images of media that are placed together on a platform and sequentially transported in an image reading device as the plurality of input images.

4. In the execution of the aforementioned image processing, a second image processing process different from the aforementioned image processing is further performed on the plurality of input images. The control program according to claim 1, wherein the notification, after the second image processing on the plurality of input images is completed, notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the image processing.

5. The control program according to claim 1, wherein, in the execution of the aforementioned image processing, a second image processing process different from the aforementioned image processing is executed on the plurality of input images asynchronously and with priority over the aforementioned image processing.

6. The control program according to claim 5, wherein the notification informs the user that it is recommended to omit the image processing, regardless of whether the second image processing for the plurality of input images has been completed or not.

7. The control program according to claim 1, wherein in the notification, regardless of whether the image processing has already been performed on the input image, the program notifies the user that it recommends omitting the image processing or changing the imaging method of the medium based on the characteristic information of the input image.

8. An image processing system having an image reading device and an information processing device, Either the image reading device or the information processing device has an acquisition unit that acquires a plurality of input images on which a medium has been photographed. Either the image reading device or the information processing device has an image processing unit that performs image processing on the plurality of input images, Either the image reading device or the information processing device has a notification unit that notifies the user that it recommends omitting the image processing or changing the imaging method of the medium based on the number of input images for which the image processing is unnecessary. An image processing system characterized by the following:

9. Acquire multiple input images in which the medium has been captured, Image processing is performed on the aforementioned multiple input images. Based on the number of input images for which the image processing is unnecessary, the system notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the image processing or change the imaging method of the medium. An image processing method characterized by the following:

10. An acquisition unit that acquires a plurality of input images on which a medium has been imaged, An image processing unit that performs image processing on the aforementioned multiple input images, A notification unit that notifies the user that it is recommended to omit the image processing or change the imaging method of the medium based on the number of input images for which the image processing is unnecessary, An image processing apparatus characterized by having

Images