Image reading device

Abstract

To provide an image reading device and an image forming apparatus that can make variable the speed of scan processing.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, an image reading device has a scanner, an operation panel, a storage unit, and a processor. The scanner reads an image of a document at a set scan speed. The operation panel receives input of an instruction for the working speed of scan processing of reading the image of the document. The storage unit includes a scan counter that stores, for every scan speed, a count value of the number of pages for the images read from the document by using the scanner. The processor sets the scan speed according to the working speed instructed on the operation panel, executes the scan processing at the set scan speed, and updates the scan counter according to the number of pages for the images read at the set scan speed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading device and an image forming device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, image reading devices such as scanners installed in digital multifunction peripherals operate at scan and processing speeds that are set at the factory or during setup. Conventional image reading devices do not allow users to change the scan and processing speeds that are set before use. Typically, the scan and processing speeds are often reflected in the price of the image forming device. For this reason, users who prioritize cost are forced to choose between purchasing a low-speed device and a high-speed device, while users who prioritize processing speed are forced to choose between purchasing a low-speed device and a high-speed device.

[0003] However, in actual operation, there are cases where image reading devices such as scanners provided in digital multifunction peripherals can be used with low-speed processing that prioritizes cost, and cases where high-speed processing is required. Conventional image reading devices cannot be operated in a way that reduces costs by using low-speed scanning processing as a default setting, while temporarily increasing costs by performing high-speed scanning processing. In recent years, in response to the increasing demand for paperless systems, emphasis has been placed on improving the productivity of scanning processing using image reading devices such as scanners provided in digital multifunction peripherals. For this reason, there is a demand for image reading devices and systems that can perform scanning processing in accordance with user requests and improve scanner productivity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-240103 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an image reading device and an image forming device that are capable of varying the speed of scanning processing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an embodiment, an image reading device includes a scanner, an operation panel, a storage unit, and a processor. The scanner reads an image of a document at a set scan speed. The operation panel inputs an instruction for the operating speed of the scan process for reading the image of the document. The storage unit includes a scan counter that stores a count value of the number of pages of images read from the document using the scanner for each scan speed. The processor sets the scan speed according to the operating speed instructed on the operation panel, executes the scan process at the set scan speed, and updates the scan counter according to the number of pages of images read at the set scan speed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a scan counter provided in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a print counter provided in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed by a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed by a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of a scan process in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of copy processing in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of a digital multi-functional peripheral (MFP) 1 as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment, and Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 1.

[0009] As shown in FIG. 1, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 includes a scanner 2, a printer 3, and an operation panel 4. The scanner 2 is installed on top of the main body of the digital multifunction peripheral. The scanner 2 is a device that optically reads an image of an original. The scanner 2 has a platen glass 11 on which the original to be scanned is placed. The scanner 2 has an image reading mechanism that scans the original on the platen glass 11 through the glass of the platen glass 11.

[0010] The scanner 2 includes a carriage 12 and a photoelectric conversion unit 13. The carriage 12, the photoelectric conversion unit 13, and the like are installed below the platen glass 11. The carriage 12 is equipped with an optical system including an illumination 62 (see FIG. 3) and a mirror. The illumination 62 is installed on the carriage 12 so that the emitted light illuminates the reading position on the platen glass 11. The reading position on the platen glass 11 onto which the illumination 62 irradiates light becomes an image of one line (or multiple lines) in the main scanning direction. The optical system including a mirror installed on the carriage 12 guides light (reflected light) from the reading position onto which the illumination 62 irradiates light to the photoelectric conversion unit 13.

[0011] The carriage 12 is moved in the sub-scanning direction below the platen glass 11 by a moving mechanism 63 (see FIG. 3) including a stepping motor and the like. The position of the carriage 12 is determined in an initial operation, and the movement of the carriage 12 in the sub-scanning direction is controlled based on the determined position. For example, by moving in the sub-scanning direction, the carriage 12 continuously guides an image for each line in the main scanning direction in the area on the platen glass 11 where the document is placed (document reading area) to the photoelectric conversion unit 13.

[0012] The photoelectric conversion unit 13 includes a lens, a photoelectric conversion sensor, and a cover. The lens collects light guided by the optical system of the carriage 12 and guides it to the photoelectric conversion sensor. The photoelectric conversion sensor is composed of photoelectric conversion elements. The photoelectric conversion sensor is, for example, a line sensor in which CCDs or CISs serving as photoelectric conversion elements are arranged in a line. The line sensor as a photoelectric conversion sensor converts one line of image in the main scanning direction (reflected light from the document surface) into one line of pixel data.

[0013] The carriage 12, which is moved by the movement mechanism 63, moves the reading position on the platen glass 11, which leads to the photoelectric conversion unit 13, in the sub-scanning direction. The scanner 2 reads the image of the entire document by acquiring image data in the main scanning direction with the photoelectric conversion unit 13 while moving the carriage 12 in the sub-scanning direction. The scanner 2 controls the speed at which the image is read in the sub-scanning direction by controlling the movement of the carriage 12. The scanner 2 also controls the timing at which pixel data for one line in the main scanning direction is acquired from the line sensor according to the movement speed of the carriage 12. In this way, the scanner 2 controls the reading speed (scanning speed) of the image of the entire document set on the platen glass 11.

[0014] The scanner 2 has an automatic document feeder (ADF) 14. The ADF 14 also functions as a document table cover and is installed so as to be freely opened and closed. When the ADF 14 is closed, the ADF 14 covers the entire document reading area on the document table glass 11. The ADF 14 also includes a paper feed tray and a transport system. The paper feed tray of the ADF 14 holds documents to be read. The transport system of the ADF 14 picks up documents set in the paper feed tray one by one and transports the documents so that the reading surface of the picked document passes a predetermined reading position.

[0015] The scanner 2 controls the image reading speed in the sub-scanning direction by controlling the transport speed at which the ADF 14 transports the document. The scanner 2 also controls the timing at which pixel data for one line in the main scanning direction is acquired from the line sensor in accordance with the document transport speed by the ADF 14. In this way, the scanner 2 controls the reading speed (scanning speed) of the image of the entire document set in the ADF 14.

[0016] The printer 3 has paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C. These paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C store paper as image-forming media on which images are printed. For example, each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C can be detachably attached to the bottom of the digital multifunction peripheral main body. Each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C has paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C, respectively. Each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C picks up one sheet of paper at a time from each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C.

[0017] The conveying system 23 conveys the paper within the printer 3. The conveying system 23 includes a plurality of conveying rollers 23a to 23d and a registration roller 24. The conveying system 23 conveys the paper picked up by each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C to the registration roller 24. The registration roller 24 conveys the paper to a transfer position at the timing when an image is to be transferred.

[0018] The multiple image forming units 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K) each form an image of a respective color (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image, which is an image to be developed in each color, on the image carrier in each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the image carrier by scanning the image carrier with light emitted in accordance with image data. For example, the exposure device 26 scans the image carrier in the main scanning direction by irradiating a photosensitive drum, which serves as the image carrier, with light emitted from a light-emitting unit via a rotating polygon mirror. Furthermore, the irradiation position of the light from the exposure device 26 moves in the sub-scanning direction as the photosensitive drum rotates. In other words, the position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 25 are adjusted by controlling the exposure device 26.

[0019] Each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K) develops an electrostatic latent image on each image carrier with toner of the corresponding color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). The intermediate transfer belt 27 is an intermediate transfer body. Each image forming unit 25 transfers (primarily transfers) the toner image of each color developed with toner of each color on each image carrier onto the intermediate transfer belt 27.

[0020] Intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the transferred toner image and sends it to a secondary transfer position. The secondary transfer position is a position where the toner image on intermediate transfer belt 27 is transferred to paper. The secondary transfer position is a position where support roller 28a and secondary transfer roller 28b face each other. Support roller 28a and secondary transfer roller 28b constitute transfer unit 28. Registration roller 24 transports paper to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on intermediate transfer belt 27. Transfer unit 28 transfers the toner image held on intermediate transfer belt 27 to paper at the secondary transfer position.

[0021] For example, when forming a color image, each image forming unit 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K transfers toner images developed with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 in a superimposed manner. The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds a color image in which the toner images of each color are superimposed. The transfer unit 28 transfers the color image formed by the multiple color toners on the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto a sheet at a secondary transfer position. The registration rollers 24 transport the sheet to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. This allows the color image to be transferred onto the sheet.

[0022] Transfer unit 28 supplies the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to fuser 29. Fuser 29 fuses the toner image onto the paper. Fuser 29 has heating unit 29a, heat roller 29b, and pressure roller 29c. Heating unit 29a heats heat roller 29b. Heat roller 29b and pressure roller 29c perform a fixing process by heating the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by transfer unit 28 while applying pressure. Heat roller 29b and pressure roller 29c in fuser 29 send the paper after the fixing process to conveyance roller 23d. Conveyance roller 23d conveys the paper from fuser 29 to paper discharge unit 30.

[0023] The operation panel 4 is a user interface. The operation panel 4 displays guidance and accepts input of operation buttons or icons. For example, a user inputs setting information on the operation panel 4. The operation panel 4 has a display unit (display) 41, a touch panel 42, and a plurality of operation buttons 43. For example, the touch panel 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41. The touch panel 42 detects a location on the display screen of the display unit 41 that the user touches.

[0024] Next, the configuration of the control system in the digital multifunction peripheral configured as above will be described. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 1. The digital multifunction peripheral 1 has a system control unit 5 that controls the entire device. The system control unit 5 is connected to the scanner 2, printer 3, and operation panel 4. In the example configuration shown in FIG. 3, the system control unit 5 has a processor 50, a memory 51, an image memory 52, an image processing unit 53, a storage device 54, and a communication interface (I / F) 55.

[0025] Processor 50 is connected via interfaces to processor 60 of scanner 2, processor 70 of printer 3, and processor 80 of operation panel 4. Processor 50 realizes various processing functions by executing programs stored in memory 51 or storage device 54. For example, by executing programs stored in memory 51, processor 50 outputs operation instructions to each unit and processes various information from each unit.

[0026] The memory 51 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and NVM. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. NVM is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. NVM stores setting data and the like. Image data is stored in the image memory 52. ​​For example, the image memory 52 functions as a page memory for expanding image data to be processed.

[0027] The image processing unit 53 processes image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 outputs image data that has been subjected to image processing such as correction, compression, or expansion on input image data. The image processing unit 53 also includes a processor for image processing. The image processing processor in the image processing unit 53 has a variable operating frequency (operating speed). The image processing unit 53 changes the processing time required for image processing by changing the operating frequency of the processor. For example, the image processing unit 53 can set the processing time for image processing to a processing speed equivalent to 1.5 times or 2 times the normal speed by overclocking the operating frequency of the processor.

[0028] The storage device 54 stores data such as control data, control programs, and setting information. The storage device 54 is configured with a rewritable nonvolatile memory. For example, the storage device 54 is configured with a storage device such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive).

[0029] The storage device 54 also has a scan counter 541 and a print counter 542. The scan counter 541 counts the number of pages scanned using the scanner 2. In the digital multifunction peripheral serving as the image reading device according to this embodiment, the scan counter 541 counts the number of pages scanned for each scan speed. The print counter 542 counts the number of pages printed using the printer 3. In the digital multifunction peripheral 1 serving as the image forming device according to this embodiment, the print counter 542 counts the number of pages printed for each print speed.

[0030] The communication I / F 55 is an interface for performing data communication with an external device. For example, the communication I / F 55 is an interface for communicating with an external device as an output destination for outputting an image scanned by the network scan function. The communication I / F 55 is also an interface for receiving an image to be printed and a print instruction from an external device by the network print function. The communication I / F 55 also includes an interface for transmitting FAX data generated from an image scanned by the FAX function to a FAX destination. The communication I / F 55 may also be an interface for communicating with an external device (such as a server) that collects values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542, etc.

[0031] Next, an example of the configuration of the control system in the scanner 2 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the scanner 2 includes a processor 60, a memory 61, the ADF 14, an illumination device 62, a moving mechanism 63, and a photoelectric conversion unit 13. The processor 60 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 61. For example, by executing the programs, the processor 60 controls the operation of each unit in the scanner 2 and monitors the operating status of each unit. The processor 60 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 60 performs a scanning operation to read an image of a document in accordance with an operation instruction from the system control unit 5.

[0032] The memory 61 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. The ADF 14 has a control system including a pickup roller and a transport system, and the processor 60 drives the pickup roller and the transport system to transport the documents one by one to the reading position.

[0033] The illuminator 62 is mounted on the carriage 12 and irradiates light onto the reading position on the platen glass 11. The illuminator 62 has a light source that emits light in response to a lighting instruction from the processor 60. The light source is not limited to a specific configuration. The light emitted by the illuminator 62 is reflected from the document placed on the platen glass 11 and enters the photoelectric conversion unit via an optical system including a mirror and a lens.

[0034] The movement mechanism 63 is a mechanism that moves the carriage 12. The movement mechanism 63 has a stepping motor or the like as a drive source. The movement mechanism 63 moves the carriage 12 by driving the stepping motor. The movement mechanism 63 moves the carriage 12 in accordance with an operation instruction from the processor 60 or the processor 50 of the system control unit 5. For example, when scanning an original on the platen glass 11, the processor 60 moves the carriage 12 from the reading start position in the sub-scanning direction (FWD direction).

[0035] The processor 60 changes the movement speed of the carriage 12 caused by the movement mechanism 63 in response to an operation instruction from the processor 50. For example, when a scan speed 1.5 times faster than the default setting value is instructed, the movement mechanism 63 moves the carriage 12 at a speed 1.5 times faster than the default value. When a scan speed twice faster than the default setting value is instructed, the movement mechanism 63 moves the carriage 12 at a speed twice faster than the default value.

[0036] The photoelectric conversion unit 13 is configured with a photoelectric conversion sensor made up of photoelectric conversion elements that convert incident light into an electrical signal. The photoelectric conversion unit 13 has a photoelectric conversion sensor configured, for example, as a line sensor that generates pixel data for a reading line in the main scanning direction. The photoelectric conversion unit 13 also has a lens for inputting light guided by an optical system mounted on the carriage 12 to the photoelectric conversion sensor. In other words, the photoelectric conversion sensor of the photoelectric conversion unit 13 sequentially outputs pixel data for a reading line in the main scanning direction as the carriage 12 moves in the sub-scanning direction.

[0037] Furthermore, photoelectric conversion unit 13 controls the timing of outputting pixel data to carriage 12 according to the movement speed and resolution. For example, if the movement speed (scanning speed) of carriage 12 is twice the default value, photoelectric conversion unit 13 outputs pixel data at twice the timing of the default value. Furthermore, if the document transport speed (scanning speed) by ADF 14 is twice the default value, photoelectric conversion unit 13 outputs pixel data at twice the timing of the default value.

[0038] Next, an example of the configuration of the control system in the printer 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the printer 3 includes a processor 70, a memory 71, a conveying system 23, an image forming unit 25, an exposure device 26, a transfer unit 28, a fixing unit 29, and the like. The processor 70 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 71. For example, by executing the programs, the processor 70 controls the operation of each unit in the printer 3 and monitors the operating status of each unit. The processor 70 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 70 performs printing processes and the like in response to operation instructions from the system control unit 5.

[0039] The memory 71 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. The conveyance system 23 conveys paper within the printer 3 under the control of the processor 70. That is, the conveyance system 23 conveys paper by driving conveyance rollers in various parts in accordance with operation instructions from the processor 70.

[0040] In response to operational instructions from the processor 70, the exposure device 26 irradiates each photosensitive drum of the image forming unit 25 with light (laser light) to form an electrostatic latent image. The processor 70 adjusts the print position, magnification, etc. by controlling the irradiation position of the laser light on the photosensitive drum by the exposure device 26. The processor 70 performs image adjustment so that the desired print range is achieved by operational control according to the print range, starting from a print standard (described later).

[0041] The image forming unit 25 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum with toner of each color in accordance with an operation instruction from the processor 70. The image forming unit 25 also transfers (primary transfer) the toner formed on the photosensitive drum to an intermediate transfer belt.

[0042] Transfer unit 28 transfers (secondarily transfers) the toner image transferred onto intermediate transfer belt 27 onto paper in accordance with operational instructions from processor 70. Fixing unit 29 drives heat roller 29b and pressure roller 29c in accordance with operational instructions from processor 70. Furthermore, heating unit 29a of fixing unit 29 adjusts the surface temperature of heat roller 29b to a desired fixing temperature under the control of processor 70. Fixing unit 29 fixes the toner image transferred onto paper onto the paper while being controlled to the fixing temperature.

[0043] Furthermore, processor 70 changes the speed (print speed) of the printing operation by each unit in printer 3 in response to an operation instruction from processor 50. For example, when processor 70 is instructed to print at 1.5 times the default setting speed, processor 70 causes each unit to perform the printing operation at 1.5 times the default setting speed. When processor 70 is instructed to print at twice the default setting speed, processor 70 causes each unit in printer 3 to perform the printing operation at twice the default setting speed.

[0044] Next, an example of the configuration of the control system in the operation panel 4 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel 4 includes a processor 80, a memory 81, a display unit (display) 41, a touch panel 42, operation buttons 43, and the like. The processor 80 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 81. For example, the processor 80 controls the operation of each part of the operation panel 4 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing the programs. The processor 80 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. For example, the processor 80 notifies the system control unit 5 of information input by the user.

[0045] The memory 81 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten.

[0046] The display content of the display unit 41 is controlled in accordance with operational instructions from the processor 80. The touch panel 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41 and detects the touched position on the display screen. For example, the processor 80 displays icons selectable by the touch panel 42 along with operation guides on the display screen of the display unit 41. The processor 80 determines the information to be input by the user in accordance with the touched position detected by the touch panel 42. The operation buttons 43 are constituted by hard keys such as a start key and a reset key.

[0047] Next, the operating speed of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image reading device and image forming device according to the embodiment will be described. The digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to this embodiment is manufactured in a manufacturing factory as a device having the hardware configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. Various default setting values ​​(default values) are set for the digital multifunction peripheral 1 during the work process (manufacturing process) at the manufacturing factory. A default value is set for the processing speed (scanning speed) of a scanning operation using the scanner 2 in the digital multifunction peripheral 1. A default value is also set for the processing speed (printing speed) of a printing operation using the printer 3 in the digital multifunction peripheral 1. The scanning speed and printing speed, which are set as default values, can be changed during operation (while the user is using the digital multifunction peripheral 1).

[0048] For example, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 is set with a default scan speed that is slower than the maximum scan speed that can be achieved using the scanner 2. This allows the digital multifunction peripheral 1 to set the scan speed faster than the default value in response to a user instruction or the like while in use by the user (after being shipped from the manufacturing factory). Furthermore, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 is set with a default print speed that is slower than the maximum print speed that can be achieved using the printer 3. This allows the digital multifunction peripheral 1 to set the print speed faster than the default setting value in response to a user's instruction while in use by the user (after being shipped from the manufacturing factory).

[0049] The digital multifunction peripheral 1 has a scan counter 541 and a print counter 542. The scan counter 541 counts the number of scans (number of pages of scanned images) for each scan speed. The scan counter 541 may also count the number of scans for each combination of scan speed and scan mode. The print counter 542 counts the number of prints (number of pages of printed images) for each print speed. The print counter 542 may also count the number of prints for each combination of print speed and print mode.

[0050] The values ​​counted by the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 are read out as appropriate. For example, the values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 are used to charge usage fees for scan operations and print operations. The values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 may be acquired by an external device connected for communication via the communication interface 55. The values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 may also be read out from the digital multifunction peripheral 1 by a serviceman.

[0051] Next, a description will be given of an example of the configuration of the scan counter 541 and print counter 542 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the scan counter 541 provided in the storage device 54 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the embodiment. In the configuration example shown in Fig. 4, the scan counter 541 counts the number of pages of scanned original images (hereinafter referred to as the number of scans) for each scan mode and scan speed. The scan counter 541 shown in Fig. 4 also counts the number of scanned pages of large-size images (e.g., sizes larger than A4) and the number of scanned pages of small-size images (e.g., sizes equal to or smaller than A4).

[0052] The scan counter 541 shown in Fig. 4 has scan modes of "full color (FULL COLOR)," "twin color (TWIN COLOR)," and "monochrome (BLACK)." The scan counter 541 shown in Fig. 4 also has scan speeds of "default value (same size)," "1.5 times (1.5x)," and "2 times (2x)." Furthermore, the scan counter 541 shown in Fig. 4 stores the number of scans in copy processing and the number of scans in individual scan processing (network scan) as operation modes.

[0053] The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans with a scan speed of "default value (same size)" for each scan mode and operation mode. For example, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "full color" scan with a scan speed of the default value (same size) and the number of scans in a network scan (individual scan). The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "two-color" scan with a scan speed of same size and the number of scans in a network scan. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "monochrome" scan with a scan speed of same size and the number of scans in a network scan.

[0054] The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans at a scan speed of "1.5x" for each scan mode and operation mode. For example, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "full color" scan at a scan speed of "1.5x" and the number of scans in a network scan. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "two-color" scan at a scan speed of "1.5x" and the number of scans in a network scan. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "monochrome" scan at a scan speed of "1.5x" and the number of scans in a network scan.

[0055] The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans performed at a scan speed of "2x" (the default value) for each scan mode and operation mode. For example, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans performed in copy processing and network scanning using "full color" scans at a scan speed of "2x." The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans performed in copy processing and network scanning using "two-color" scans at a scan speed of "2x." The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans performed in copy processing and network scanning using "monochrome" scans at a scan speed of "2x."

[0056] 4, the scan counter 541 can count the number of scans for each scan speed. The scan counter 541 can also count the number of scans at each scan speed for each scan mode. The scan counter 541 can also count the number of scans in copy processing and the number of scans in network scanning for each scan speed. Furthermore, the scan counter 541 can also count the number of scans according to the size of the scanned image.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the print counter 542 provided in the storage device 54 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the embodiment. 5, print counter 542 counts the number of pages printed (hereinafter referred to as the number of prints) for each print mode and print speed. Also, print counter 542 shown in Fig. 5 counts the number of pages on which large-size images (e.g., sizes larger than A4) are printed and the number of pages on which small-size images (e.g., sizes smaller than A4) are printed.

[0058] The print counter 542 shown in Fig. 5 has print speeds of "default value (same size)," "1.5 times (1.5x)," and "2 times (2x)." The print counter 542 shown in Fig. 5 also has print modes of "full color (FULL COLOR)," "two-color (TWIN COLOR)," and "monochrome (BLACK)." Furthermore, the print counter 542 shown in Fig. 5 stores the number of prints in copy processing and the number of prints in individual print processing (e.g., network printing) as operation modes.

[0059] The print counter 542 stores the number of prints at the "default value (same size)" print speed for each print mode and operation mode. For example, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "full color" printing at the default value (same size) print speed and the number of prints in an individual print process. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "two-color" printing at the same size print speed and the number of prints in a print process. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "monochrome" printing at the same size print speed and the number of prints in a print process.

[0060] The print counter 542 stores the number of prints at a print speed of "1.5x" for each print mode and operation mode. For example, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "full color" printing at a print speed of 1.5x and the number of prints in an individual print process. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "two-color" printing at a print speed of 1.5x and the number of prints in a print process. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "monochrome" printing at a print speed of 1.5x and the number of prints in a print process.

[0061] The print counter 542 stores the number of prints at "double" print speed for each print mode and operation mode. For example, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "full color" printing at double print speed and the number of prints in an individual print process. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "two-color" printing at double print speed and the number of prints in a print process. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "monochrome" printing at double print speed and the number of prints in a print process.

[0062] The print counter 542 shown in Fig. 5 can count the number of prints for each print speed. The print counter 542 can also count the number of prints at each print speed for each print mode. The print counter 542 can also count the number of prints in the copy process and the number of prints in each individual print process for each print speed. Furthermore, the print counter 542 shown in Fig. 5 can also count the number of prints according to the size of the printed image.

[0063] Next, an instruction to set (change) the operating speed for the image reading device and the digital multifunction peripheral 1 serving as the image forming device according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 shows an example of a menu screen displayed on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the display unit 41 displays operation instruction buttons and operation speed setting buttons that can be instructed on the touch panel 42. In the display example shown in Fig. 6, the display unit 41 displays "copy," "scan," "print," and "fax" buttons as operation instruction buttons.

[0064] The "Copy" button is a button that instructs the execution of a copy process in which an image of a document scanned by the scanner 2 is printed on paper by the printer 3. The "Scan" button is a button that instructs the execution of a scan process in which an image of a document is scanned using the scanner 2. The "Print" button is a button that instructs the execution of a print process in which an image is printed on paper by the printer 3. The "Facsimile" button is a button that instructs the execution of a process in which an image of a document scanned by the scanner 2 is sent as facsimile data by fax using the communication I / F 55 or the like.

[0065] In addition, in the display example shown in FIG. 6, the display unit 41 displays "1.5x speed" and "2x speed" buttons as buttons for instructing the setting of the operation speed. The "1.5x" button is a button for instructing that the speed of the scanning operation and the printing operation be set to 1.5 times the normal speed. The "2x" button is a button for instructing that the speed of the scanning operation and the printing operation be set to 2 times the normal speed. For example, when the scan button is pressed while the 1.5x button is instructed (selected), the processor 50 executes the scanning process with the scanning speed set to 1.5 times the default value. Furthermore, when the copy button is instructed while the 2x button is instructed, the processor 50 executes the copying process with the scanning speed and the printing speed set to twice the default value.

[0066] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display when an instruction to change the operation speed is given on the menu screen displayed on the display unit 41. In FIG. 7 shows that the scan button has been pressed with the "double speed" button being designated (selected). That is, when the user designates a scan at double the default speed, the user designates (selects) the "double speed" button and presses the scan button. When the scan button is designated with the "double speed" button being designated (selected), the processor 50 sets the scan speed to twice the default value and executes the scan process (scan job).

[0067] Furthermore, when a user instructs copying at "2x speed" or "1.5x speed," the user simply instructs (selects) the "2x speed" or "1.5x speed" button and then instructs the copy button. That is, the processor 50 accepts an instruction to execute a job such as scanning or copying while an instruction to set (change) the operating speed has been given. As a result, the processor 50 executes the scanning process or copying process (copy job) at the instructed operating speed.

[0068] Next, the flow of the scanning operation by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image reading device according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of a scanning operation by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image reading apparatus according to the embodiment. The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 receives various operation instructions and an instruction to set the operation speed during standby (ACT11). For example, the processor 50 displays a menu screen for inputting various operation instructions and an instruction to set the operation speed on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4. The user instructs the setting of the operation speed according to the menu screen, and then instructs the process to be executed (scan, copy, etc.).

[0069] When an instruction to execute a scan is received (ACT12, YES), the processor 50 determines whether an instruction to change the operating speed has been received (ACT13). When an instruction to change the operating speed has been received (ACT13, YES), the processor 50 sets the scan speed to the specified operating speed (ACT14).

[0070] For example, when the scan button is pressed while the "1.5x speed" button is pressed, the processor 50 sets the scan speed to 1.5 times the default value. Also, when the scan button is pressed while the "2x speed" button is pressed, the processor 50 sets the scan speed to twice the default value.

[0071] When reading a document set in the ADF, processor 50 changes the document paper feed speed by the ADF and the timing at which photoelectric conversion unit 13 acquires pixel data, etc., in accordance with the specified scan speed. When reading a document on a document platen, processor 50 changes the carriage movement speed by movement mechanism 63 and the timing at which photoelectric conversion unit 13 acquires pixel data, etc., in accordance with the specified scan speed.

[0072] After changing the operating speed, the processor 50 executes a scan process (scan job) of the document using the scanner 2 at the set operating speed (ACT15). During the execution of the scan job, the processor 50 updates the scan counter for the set (changed) scan speed corresponding to the scan mode each time one page of the document image is read (ACT16). For example, when a color (full color) image is scanned at 1.5x speed, the processor 50 counts up the counter corresponding to the 1.5x speed full color scan. When a monochrome (black) image is scanned at 2x speed, the processor 50 counts up the counter corresponding to the 2x speed monochrome scan.

[0073] When the scan job is completed, the processor 50 changes the operating speed setting to the default value (ACT17). This allows the digital multifunction peripheral 1 to return the operating speed to the default value after executing the scan job at the operating speed specified by the user. Note that the processor 50 may also change the operating speed setting to the default value when a predetermined time has elapsed since the scan job was completed.

[0074] Furthermore, if there is no instruction to change the operating speed (ACT13, NO), the processor 50 executes the scan process using the default setting values ​​(ACT18). When executing the scan process using the default values, the processor 50 updates the scan counter of the default value corresponding to the scan mode every time one page of the document image is read (ACT19).

[0075] As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading device according to the embodiment accepts a change in scan speed before executing a scan. When an instruction to change the scan speed is received, the digital multifunction peripheral changes the scan speed according to the instruction. While executing a scan job, the digital multifunction peripheral counts the number of scans for each scan speed.

[0076] This allows the digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading device to change the scan speed in response to a user's instruction and manage the number of scans for each operating speed. As a result, the digital multifunction peripheral as an image reading device can be operated in a way that charges usage fees according to the scan speed and the number of scans.

[0077] Although the above-described operation example has been described assuming a scanning operation, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 may also vary (speed up) the operating speed for scanning operations such as fax transmission. In this case, the digital multifunction peripheral counts the number of scans for each operating speed in the scan counter. This allows the scan speed for fax processing to be changed and the number of scans to be counted for each scan speed. Furthermore, when an instruction to speed up FAX processing is received, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 may also speed up data processing for converting data into FAX data. For example, the digital multifunction peripheral may speed up data processing by increasing the operating frequency of a processor that executes data processing for converting scanned images into FAX data.

[0078] Next, a copy operation in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of a copy operation in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image reading apparatus according to the embodiment. The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 receives various operation instructions and operation speed setting instructions during standby (ACT31). For example, the processor 50 displays a menu screen for inputting various operation instructions and operation speed setting instructions on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4. A user who wishes to copy at a speed faster than the default value instructs the setting of the operation speed according to the menu screen and instructs the execution of copying.

[0079] When an instruction to execute copying is received (ACT32, YES), the processor 50 determines whether an instruction to change the operating speed has been received (ACT33). When an instruction to change the operating speed has been received (ACT33, YES), the processor 50 sets the scan speed and print speed (copy speed) to the specified operating speed (ACT34). Here, the copy operating speed (copy speed) is realized by changing the scan speed and print speed from their default values.

[0080] For example, when the copy button is pressed while the "1.5x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed and print speed to 1.5 times the default value. When the copy button is pressed while the "2x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed and print speed to twice the default value. Furthermore, when copying, image processing is also performed to convert the image read by the scanner into image data for printing. To speed up the time required for image processing when copying, the processor 50 may set (change) the operating frequency of the processor that executes the image processing in accordance with the specified operating speed.

[0081] After changing the operating speed setting, the processor 50 executes a copy process (copy job) at the set operating speed (ACT 35). During the execution of the copy job, the processor 50 updates the scan counter for the set (changed) scan speed corresponding to the scan mode every time one page of the image of the document is read (ACT 36). Also, during the execution of the copy job, the processor 50 updates the print counter for the set print speed corresponding to the print mode every time one page of the image is printed on paper (ACT 37).

[0082] For example, when performing color (full-color) copying at 1.5x speed, the processor 50 counts up a scan counter corresponding to full-color scanning at 1.5x speed. Also, when performing color copying at 1.5x speed, the processor 50 counts up a print counter corresponding to full-color printing at 1.5x speed. When performing monochrome (black) copying at double speed, the processor 50 counts up a scan counter corresponding to double speed monochrome scanning and counts up a print counter corresponding to double speed monochrome printing.

[0083] When the copy job is completed, the processor 50 changes the operating speed setting to the default value (ACT37). This allows the digital multifunction peripheral 1 to return the operating speed setting to the default setting when the copy job is completed at the operating speed specified by the user. Note that the processor 50 may change (return) the operating speed setting to the default value when a predetermined time has elapsed since the copy job was completed.

[0084] Furthermore, if there is no instruction to change the operating speed (ACT33, NO), the processor 50 executes the scan process with the default setting value (ACT39). When executing the copy process with the default value, the processor 50 updates the scan counter with the default value corresponding to the scan mode every time one page of the document image is read (ACT40). Furthermore, the processor 50 updates the print counter with the default value corresponding to the print mode every time one page of the document image is printed on paper (ACT41).

[0085] As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment accepts a change in copy speed before copying. When a change in copy speed is instructed, the digital multifunction peripheral changes the operating speeds, including the scan speed and print speed, according to the instructed operating speed. When copying, the digital multifunction peripheral counts the number of scans and prints at each operating speed.

[0086] This allows the digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming device to change the copy speed in response to a user's instruction and manage the number of scans and prints for each operating speed, making it possible to charge a usage fee for the number of scans and prints according to the operating speed.

[0087] The digital multifunction peripheral according to the above-described embodiment may be configured so that the operating speed is set by an administrator. In this case, the digital multifunction peripheral in operation (after shipment) can set the operating speed (scanning speed, printing speed) relative to the scanning speed and printing speed according to instructions from the administrator. For example, if the administrator instructs the digital multifunction peripheral to set the operating speed to N times the default value instructed by the administrator, the digital multifunction peripheral may maintain the operating speed at N times the default value until the digital multifunction peripheral receives an instruction from the administrator to return the operating settings to the default values.

[0088] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 2...scanner, 3...printer, 4...operation panel, 5...system control unit, 12...carriage, 13...photoelectric conversion unit, 14...ADF, 50...processor, 53...image processing unit, 54...storage device (storage unit), 541...scan counter, 542...print counter, 63...movement mechanism

Claims

1. a scanner that reads an image of a document at a set scan speed; an operation panel for inputting an instruction for an operation speed of a scanning process for reading an image of the document; a storage unit including a scan counter for storing a count value of the number of pages of an image read from the document by the scanner for each scanning speed; a processor that sets a scan speed according to an operation speed input to the operation panel, executes a scan process at the set scan speed, and updates the scan counter according to the number of pages of images read at the set scan speed; An image reading device having the above.

2. The scan counter stores a count value for each scan mode and scan speed.

2. The image reading device according to claim 1.

3. the operation panel accepts an instruction to speed up a scan process for reading an image of a document using the scanner; When an instruction to speed up the scan process is input to the operation panel, the processor sets the scan speed to a speed higher than the default value in accordance with the instruction content on the operation panel.

3. The image reading device according to claim 1.

4. a scanner that reads an image of a document at a set scan speed; a printer that prints an image onto paper at a set print speed; an operation panel for inputting an instruction for an operation speed of a copy process for printing an image of the original onto a sheet of paper; a storage unit including a scan counter that stores a count value of the number of pages of images read from an original using the scanner for each scan speed, and a print counter that stores a count value of the number of pages of images printed on paper using the printer for each print speed; a processor that sets a scan speed and a print speed according to an operation speed inputted in an instruction to the operation panel, executes a copy process at the set scan speed and print speed, updates the scan counter according to the number of pages of images at the set reading speed, and updates the print counter according to the number of pages of images printed on paper at the set print speed; An image forming apparatus having the same.

5. the scan counter stores a count value for each scan mode and scan speed; the print counter stores a count value for each print mode and print speed; The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 .

Images