Image reading device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

This invention provides an image reading device, an information processing method, and an information processing program that facilitate data transmission. [Solution] The image reading device comprises a scanner unit, a recognition unit, a destination processing unit, and a transmission processing unit. The information processing method by the scanner unit reads an image of the medium (ACT1). The recognition unit recognizes name information from the image of the medium read by the scanner unit (ACT3, Yes). The destination processing unit obtains information indicating the destination based on the name information (ACT7). The transmission processing unit transmits the image of the medium to the destination based on the information indicating the destination (ACT9).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image reading apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus, a technique for transmitting image data scanned by a user to a set destination is known. Examples of destinations for transmitting data include a folder of a file server, a mail address of oneself or others, and the like. The user sets the destination for data transmission on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus. For example, the user directly inputs a path to a folder of a file server or a mail address on the operation panel to set the destination, or selects a previously registered path or mail address and sets it as the destination.

[0003] However, in the conventional technology, when setting the destination for data transmission, the user needs to operate the operation panel many times, which is troublesome.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique for facilitating data transmission.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In this embodiment, the image reading device comprises a scanner unit, a recognition unit, a destination processing unit, and a transmission processing unit. The scanner unit reads an image from a medium. The recognition unit recognizes name information from the image of the medium read by the scanner unit. The destination processing unit obtains destination information based on the name information. The transmission processing unit transmits the image of the medium to the destination based on the destination information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the data transmission system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of an image reading device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing procedure for information processing by the image reading device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of a medium according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a destination display image displayed on the image reading device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows another example of a medium according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows another example of a destination display image displayed on the image reading device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a modified example of the information processing procedure by the image reading device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a medium related to a modified embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a destination display image displayed on an image reading device according to a modified embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for identical components whenever possible, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0009] (Example configuration) Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a data transmission system S according to an embodiment. The data transmission system S includes an image reading device 1 and a user terminal 2. The image reading device 1 and the user terminal 2 are connected to each other via a network NW so that they can communicate with each other. The network NW is implemented by at least one of the following: the Internet, a mobile network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The network may include a wireless network or a wired network. The data transmission system S is a system that transmits image data read by the image reading device 1 to the user terminal 2. The data transmission system S may include multiple image reading devices 1. The data transmission system S may also refer to a system that includes at least two electronic devices.

[0010] Image reading device 1 is an electronic device equipped with an electrophotographic printing function. Image reading device 1 will be described as an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) equipped with copy, print, facsimile, and scanner functions. Image reading device 1 is an example of a reading device. An example of the configuration of image reading device 1 will be described later.

[0011] User terminal 2 is an electronic device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. User terminal 2 is, for example, an electronic device used by a user. For example, user terminal 2 may be a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, or a tablet device. User terminal 2 receives data such as image data transmitted from image reading device 1. User may be read as user or person. User terminal 2 is an example of a terminal.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of an image reading apparatus 1 according to an embodiment. The image reading apparatus 1 is an electronic device having an electrophotographic printing function. The image reading apparatus 1 will be described as an MFP having functions such as a copy function, a print function, a facsimile function, and a scanner function. The image reading apparatus 1 has an OCR (optical character recognition) function for performing character recognition from an image.

[0013] The image reading apparatus 1 includes a control unit 100, a control panel 200, a scanner unit 300, an automatic document feeder 310, a communication circuit 400, an input / output interface 500, a power supply circuit 600, and a printer unit 700.

[0014] The control unit 100 controls the operations of each part of the image reading apparatus 1. The control unit 100 includes a processing circuit 11, a main memory 12, and a storage 13.

[0015] The processing circuit 11 corresponds to the central part of the image reading apparatus 1. The processing circuit 11 is an element constituting a computer of the image reading apparatus 1. The processing circuit 11 includes one or more circuits that execute a plurality of processes by a plurality of functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited thereto. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited thereto. The processing circuit 11 expands a program stored in advance in the main memory 12 or the storage 13 into the main memory 12. The program is a program that enables the processing circuit 11 to execute various processes. The processing circuit 11 executes the program expanded in the main memory 12 to enable execution of various processes.

[0016] Main memory 12 corresponds to the main memory portion of the image reading device 1. Main memory 12 is an element that constitutes the computer of the image reading device 1. Main memory 12 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 12, the operating system or programs are stored. Main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 11. For example, main memory 12 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, main memory 12 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0017] Storage 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the image reading device 1. Storage 13 is an element that constitutes the computer of the image reading device 1. For example, storage 13 includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). In addition to the HDD, or instead of the HDD, storage 13 may include a semiconductor storage medium such as an SSD (Solid State Drive). Storage 13 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 11 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing of the processing circuit 11. Storage 13 can store image data generated by the scanner unit 300. Storage 13 is an example of a storage unit.

[0018] Storage 13 stores destination information. The destination information is, for example, information in which a destination name and information indicating the destination are associated. The destination name indicates, for example, the name or title of a person or the like who is the destination. The destination name may be, for example, the user name, nickname, etc. of a person or the like who is the destination. The person or the like who is the destination is also referred to as the destination user. The destination name is an example of name information. The information indicating the destination is information indicating the data transmission destination for the destination user. The information indicating the destination includes, for example, a mail address or folder information. The mail address indicates the mail address of the destination user. The mail address of the destination user is also referred to as the destination address. The folder information indicates the folder information of the destination user. The folder information of the destination user includes the path of the folder accessible by the destination user. The folder accessible by the destination user is also referred to as the destination folder. The destination folder may be, for example, a folder in the user terminal 2. The destination folder may be a folder on the file server. The path of the destination folder is also referred to as the destination folder path. The information indicating the destination includes at least one of the destination address and the destination folder path.

[0019] The destination name is associated with information indicating at least one destination. The destination name may be associated with information indicating a plurality of types of destinations. The destination name may be associated with at least one of the destination address and the destination folder path. The destination name may be associated with the destination address and the destination folder path. The destination name may be associated with a plurality of destination addresses. The destination name may be associated with a plurality of destination folder paths. For example, the destination name "AAA" may be associated with the destination address "aaa_aaa@abcde.co.jp". The destination name "AAA" may be associated with the destination folder path "￥￥ABC￥aaa". The destination name "AAA" may be associated with the destination address "aaa_aaa@abcde.co.jp" and the destination folder path "￥￥ABC￥aaa". The destination information can be appropriately set or updated by the user or administrator of the image reading device 1.

[0020] Storage 13 stores registration information. Registration information is, for example, information that links destination items with information specifying the destination. Destination items are predetermined strings or images set by the user. Predetermined strings include, for example, names, nicknames, or pronouns. For example, predetermined strings include "TO ME," "To Me," or "Supervisor." Predetermined images include, for example, signatures, seals, or stamp images. Information specifying the destination is information that identifies the destination. Information specifying the destination includes, for example, the user of image reader 1, an authenticated user, information indicating the relationship with the authenticated user, or information indicating attributes. An authenticated user authenticates the user when using image reader 1 and indicates a user whose authentication is complete or successful. Authentication can be achieved by any method. Information indicating the relationship with the authenticated user includes, for example, the authenticated user's supervisor and the authenticated user's administrator. Attributes include, for example, information indicating the organization to which the user belongs. Information specifying the destination may be a destination name or information indicating the destination. For example, the specified string "TO ME" may be associated with the "authenticated user" as information specifying the destination. Information specifying the destination is just one example of information indicating a destination. The registration information can be set or updated as appropriate by the user or administrator of the image reading device 1.

[0021] Storage 13 may store area designation information that specifies the area from which character recognition will be performed on the image. Area designation information is information that links, for example, media information and designated area information. Media information is, for example, information indicating the type of media. The type of media includes, for example, email, invoice, or circulating document. Designated area information indicates information about the designated area. The designated area indicates the area from the image of the media on which character recognition will be performed. The designated area is also called the target area of ​​the media or the target area of ​​the image. Designated area information includes information indicating the position and size of the designated area. The position of the designated area may be, for example, specified by the coordinates of the media. The size of the designated area may be specified by the height and width of the designated area. The size of the designated area may also be specified by the coordinates of the media. The designated area may be, for example, the top quarter of the area of ​​the media. The designated area may be an area based on a specific format. For example, the designated area may be the recipient field of an invoice format. The shape of the designated area is, for example, a rectangle, but is not limited to this. The designated area is an example of a predetermined area. The area designation information can be set as appropriate by the user or administrator of the image reading device 1.

[0022] The control panel 200 includes a display device 201 and an input device 202.

[0023] The display device 201 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 11. The display device 201 is a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc., but is not limited to these. The input device 202 is a device capable of inputting data or instructions to the image reading device 1. The input device 202 may include input buttons or a touch panel, etc.

[0024] The scanner unit 300 is a device that reads images such as characters, figures, and photographs drawn on a sheet placed in a predetermined position. The scanner unit 300 includes a line sensor. The line sensor may be a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) type. The scanner unit 300 generates image data based on the image read using the line sensor. The scanner unit 300 transmits the generated image data to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 either saves the received image data to the storage 13 or transmits it to the printer unit 700. The scanner unit 300 is an example of a scanner unit.

[0025] The automatic document feeder 310 is a device that transports documents and other media to the reading position of the scanner unit 300. The automatic document feeder 310 is equipped with a tray for placing media on it. The automatic document feeder 310 transports the media placed on the tray one after another to the reading position of the scanner unit 300. The automatic document feeder 310 is also called an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder).

[0026] The communication circuit 400 is an interface for enabling communication between the image reading device 1 and the user terminal 2 via a wired or wireless network.

[0027] The input / output interface 500 is an interface for connecting the image reading device 1 to external equipment. The input / output interface 500 includes a connector for a wired cable.

[0028] The power supply circuit 600 converts AC power supplied from the commercial power source into DC power and supplies power to each part of the image reading device 1. The power supply circuit 600 can be controlled by the processing circuit 11.

[0029] The printer unit 700 is a unit that forms an image on a sheet. The sheet is a component in which multiple labels are arranged along the longitudinal direction. The multiple labels are arranged so that the distance between the centers of adjacent labels is equal. The image includes images containing text information and image data. The printer unit 700 forms an image on the sheet based on image data transmitted from a user terminal via the network using its print function. The printer unit 700 also forms an image on the sheet based on image data generated by the scanner unit 300 using its copy function. Here, an example of a printer unit 700 using a tandem toner image transfer unit is described. The printer unit 700 includes a storage unit 71, a transport unit 72, an image forming unit 73, and a fixing unit 74. The printer unit 700 is an example of a printing unit.

[0030] The storage unit 71 stores the sheets. The storage unit 71 includes a paper feed cassette and a pickup roller. The paper feed cassette stores the sheets. The pickup roller takes out the sheets one by one from the paper feed cassette. The pickup roller supplies the taken sheets to the transport unit 72. The sheets include ID cards, including wireless tags.

[0031] The transport unit 72 transports the sheet in the printer unit 700. The transport unit 72 includes a plurality of rollers and a registration roller. The plurality of rollers include a roller that transports the sheet supplied by the pickup roller to the registration roller. The plurality of rollers are located downstream of the fuser unit 74, which will be described later, and include a roller that discharges the sheet to the output tray. The registration roller transports the sheet to the transfer unit in accordance with the timing at which the transfer unit of the image forming unit 73, which will be described later, transfers the toner image to the sheet.

[0032] The image forming unit 73 forms a toner image on the sheet. The image forming unit 73 includes an intermediate transfer belt, a plurality of developing units, an exposure unit, and a transfer unit. The intermediate transfer belt is an endless belt. The plurality of developing units correspond to the number of toner types. The plurality of developing units include a developing unit for black, a developing unit for cyan, a developing unit for magenta, and a developing unit for yellow. Each developing unit includes a photoreceptor drum. Each developing unit includes a charger, a developing device, a primary transfer roller, a cleaning unit, and a static eliminator around the photoreceptor drum. The photoreceptor drum is a drum having a photoreceptor layer on its surface. The charger uniformly charges the photoreceptor layer on the surface of the photoreceptor drum. The developing device develops the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoreceptor drum with toner. The developing device forms a toner image on the surface of the photoreceptor drum. The primary transfer roller faces the photoreceptor drum and sandwiches the intermediate transfer belt. The primary transfer roller transfers the toner image on the surface of the photoreceptor drum onto the intermediate transfer belt. The cleaning unit removes untransferred toner from the surface of the photoreceptor drum. The static eliminator irradiates the surface of the photoreceptor drum with light. The static eliminator removes static electricity from the photoreceptor layer of the photoreceptor drum by irradiating it with light. The exposure unit irradiates the surface of the photoreceptor drum in each developing unit with laser light through an optical system such as a polygon mirror. The exposure unit forms an electrostatic pattern as an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoreceptor drum. The transfer unit transfers the charged toner image on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt to the sheet. The transfer unit includes support rollers and secondary transfer rollers configured to sandwich the intermediate transfer belt and the sheet from both sides in the thickness direction.

[0033] The fixing unit 74 applies heat and pressure to the sheet on which the toner image supplied from the image forming unit 73 has been formed. The fixing unit 74 fixes the toner image formed on the sheet to the sheet using heat and pressure.

[0034] The hardware configuration of the image reading device 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. The image reading device 1 allows for the omission and modification of the above-described components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0035] The various components implemented in the processing circuit 11 described above will now be explained. The processing circuit 11 implements the acquisition unit 110, the recognition unit 111, the destination processing unit 112, the display processing unit 113, and the transmission processing unit 114. Each part implemented by the processing circuit 11 can also be called a function. Each part implemented by the processing circuit 11 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processing circuit 11 and the main memory 12.

[0036] The acquisition unit 110 acquires image data of the image of the medium read by the scanner unit 300. Based on the area specification information, the acquisition unit 110 acquires image data of the image within the specified area of ​​the medium read by the scanner unit 300.

[0037] The recognition unit 111 acquires character information from the image data acquired by the acquisition unit 110. The recognition unit 111 performs character recognition from the entire area of ​​the image data by character recognition processing such as OCR processing. The recognition unit 111 may also perform character recognition from image data contained within a specified area of ​​the image data by character recognition processing such as OCR processing. The recognition unit 111 stores the character information in the storage 13. The recognition unit 111 may acquire image information from the image data. The recognition unit 111 may acquire image information from the entire area of ​​the image data by image recognition processing. The recognition unit 111 may acquire image information from image data contained within a specified area of ​​the image data by image recognition processing. The recognition unit 111 stores the image information in the storage 13.

[0038] The recognition unit 111 refers to the destination information and recognizes the destination name from the character information. Based on the destination information, the recognition unit 111 extracts a string corresponding to the destination name. The recognition unit 111 refers to the registration information and recognizes the destination item from the image information contained in the medium. The recognition unit 111 may also extract a string corresponding to a predetermined string based on the registration information. The recognition unit 111 may also extract an image corresponding to a predetermined image based on the registration information. The recognition unit 111 extracts a string corresponding to at least one destination name.

[0039] The destination processing unit 112 refers to the destination information and obtains information indicating the destination based on the extracted destination name. The destination processing unit 112 refers to the registration information and obtains destination information based on the extracted destination item. The destination processing unit 112 obtains information specifying the destination based on the destination item. The destination processing unit 112 refers to the destination information and obtains destination information based on the information specifying the destination. The destination processing unit 112 obtains destination information associated with at least one destination name extracted by the recognition unit 111.

[0040] The display processing unit 113 displays the destination information acquired by the destination processing unit 112 on the display device 201. The display processing unit 113 displays a destination display image on the display device 201 that shows destination information associated with at least one destination name extracted by the recognition unit 111. The destination display image is, for example, a list image that shows the destination name and information indicating the destination. The destination display image includes the destination name, the destination address associated with the destination name, and at least one of the destination folder path.

[0041] The display processing unit 113 displays the destination input image on the display device 201. The destination input image is an image into which the user can input destination information. The destination input image includes, for example, a destination information input box. The user enters the destination address or destination folder path into the destination information input box via the input device 202. The destination processing unit 112 retrieves the destination information entered by the user.

[0042] The transmission processing unit 114 transmits the image data to the destination indicated by the destination information via the communication circuit 400. The transmission processing unit 114 also outputs the image data to the destination user terminal 2 via the communication circuit 400.

[0043] (Example of operation) The procedure for processing by the data transmission system S will be explained below. In the following explanation, which primarily focuses on the image reading device 1, the image reading device 1 may be replaced with the processing circuit 11.

[0044] The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Depending on the embodiment, each process may be omitted or replaced, and new processes may be added.

[0045] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the information processing procedure by the image reading device 1 according to this embodiment. In the following process, the user of the image reading device 1 will have the medium read. The medium may be, for example, a printed email, an invoice, or a circulating document. The following process begins when the user of the image reading device 1 operates the scanner unit 300 to read the medium that has been placed in the automatic document feeder 310. The medium may also be read by the scanner unit 300 without using the automatic document feeder 310.

[0046] The scanner unit 300 of the image reading device 1 reads the image on the medium.

[0047] The processing circuit 11 acquires image data of the medium (ACT1). The processing of ACT1 may also be performed by the acquisition unit 110 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In one example, the processing circuit 11 acquires image data that includes the entire area of ​​the medium's image.

[0048] In another example, the processing circuit 11 acquires image data contained in a specified area of ​​the image on the medium based on area specification information. In this example, the processing circuit 11 identifies a specified area from the image data of the medium. The processing circuit 11 may identify a specified area from the image data of the medium based on a pre-set specified area. The processing circuit 11 may refer to area specification information stored in the storage 13 and identify a specified area from the image data of the medium based on a specified area set according to the type of medium. The processing circuit 11 may identify a specified area based on user operation. For example, the user of the image reading device 1 may specify "invoice" as the type of medium via the input device 202. The processing circuit 11 may refer to area specification information and identify a specified area based on the user's specification of the type of medium. The processing circuit 11 may identify a specified area based on specified area information associated with "invoice". The processing circuit 11 acquires image data from the image within the specified area of ​​the medium.

[0049] The processing circuit 11 acquires character information from the image data (ACT2). The processing in ACT2 may also be performed by the recognition unit 111 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In one example, the processing circuit 11 performs character recognition processing on the image data that is included in the entire area of ​​the image on the medium. In another example, the processing circuit 11 performs character recognition processing on the image data that is included in a specified area of ​​the image on the medium.

[0050] The processing circuit 11 determines whether the character information contains the destination name (ACT3). The processing in ACT3 may also be performed by the recognition unit 111 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 11 obtains destination information from the storage 13. The processing circuit 11 compares the destination name contained in the destination information with the character information obtained from the image data. The processing circuit 11 extracts a string from the character information that matches the destination name contained in the destination information. The string that matches the destination name is also called the string corresponding to the destination name. If the character information contains a string corresponding to the destination name, the processing circuit 11 determines that the character information contains the destination name. In this case, the processing circuit 11 recognizes the string corresponding to the destination name from the character information. Recognizing the string corresponding to the destination name is also called recognizing the destination name. If the character information does not contain a string corresponding to the destination name, the processing circuit 11 determines that the character information does not contain the destination name.

[0051] If the text information contains the recipient's name (ACT3:YES), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT6. If the text information does not contain the recipient's name (ACT3:NO), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT4.

[0052] The processing circuit 11 displays the destination input image on the display device 201 based on the fact that the character information does not contain a destination name (ACT4). The processing of ACT4 may also be performed by the display processing unit 113 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 11 displays the destination input image, including the destination input box, on the display device 201. The user enters destination information into the destination input box via the input device 202. The user enters, for example, a destination address or a destination folder path.

[0053] The processing circuit 11 acquires destination information (ACT5) based on user input. The processing of ACT5 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. The processing circuit 11 may acquire destination information as a destination instruction. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire a destination instruction based on a confirmation instruction that confirms the destination information. A confirmation instruction is, for example, an instruction based on the operation of the "OK" button included in the destination input image. For example, the "OK" button is an operator that allows the user to input a confirmation instruction.

[0054] The processing circuit 11 displays destination information on the display device 201 based on the fact that the character information includes a destination name (ACT6). The processing in ACT6 may also be performed by the display processing unit 113 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT6, for example, the processing circuit 11 refers to the destination information and obtains destination information associated with the destination name recognized from the character information. The processing circuit 11 displays a destination display image on the display device 201 that includes the destination name recognized from the character information and the destination information associated with the destination name.

[0055] The user enters destination instructions to specify the destination based on the destination display image. For example, the user selects a checkbox included in the destination display image. A checkbox is, for example, an operator that allows the user to enter destination instructions. The user selects information indicating at least one destination.

[0056] The processing circuit 11 acquires a destination instruction (ACT7) based on the user's selection of a checkbox. The processing of ACT7 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. Alternatively, the processing circuit 11 may acquire a destination instruction based on a confirmation instruction that confirms the destination specified in the destination display image. The confirmation instruction is, for example, an instruction based on the operation of the "OK" button included in the destination display image. For example, the "OK" button is an operator that allows the user to input a confirmation instruction.

[0057] The processing circuit 11 sets the destination of the image data based on the destination instruction (ACT8). The processing of ACT8 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In one example, the processing circuit 11 sets the destination of the image data based on information indicating a destination selected by the user. In another example, the processing circuit 11 sets the destination of the image data based on destination information entered by the user. For example, the processing circuit 11 sets at least one of the destination address and the destination folder path as the destination of the image data.

[0058] The processing circuit 11 transmits the image data to the destination indicated by the destination information (ACT9). The processing in ACT9 may also be carried out by the transmission processing unit 114 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT9, for example, the processing circuit 11 outputs the image data to the destination user terminal 2 via the communication circuit 400.

[0059] In this example, the image reader 1 can recognize a destination name from an image of a medium read by a scanner, obtain destination information based on the destination name, and transmit the image data of the medium to the destination based on the destination information. For example, the image reader 1 can read a medium with a scanner, obtain character information from the image data of the medium, and extract a destination name pre-set by the user from the character information. The image reader 1 can set destination information corresponding to the extracted destination name as the destination and transmit the image data to the destination. Therefore, the user does not need to input the destination to which the image data is to be transmitted to the image reader 1. The image reader 1 can automatically set the destination based on destination information stored in the storage 13. This makes it easy for the image reader 1 to transmit data such as image data.

[0060] The image reading device 1 can recognize a destination name from an image within a predetermined area of ​​the medium. For example, the image reading device 1 can recognize a destination name from image data within a specified area of ​​the medium. Therefore, the image reading device 1 can reduce the amount of processing required by limiting the area in which the destination name is recognized. The image reading device 1 can shorten the processing time required to recognize the destination name and perform processing efficiently.

[0061] The image reading device 1 can display destination information on the display device 201. For example, the image reading device 1 can display destination information such as the destination name and the destination address or destination folder path associated with the destination name on the display device 201. Therefore, the user can recognize the destination information. The user can easily select a destination from the displayed destination information. This makes it easy for the image reading device 1 to transmit data such as image data.

[0062] (Example of a medium) Figure 4 shows an example of a medium according to the embodiment. Figure 4 shows a medium image. A medium image shows a printed copy of an email. The medium image contains strings corresponding to the recipient names in the Sender, To, and CC fields.

[0063] The processing circuit 11 performs character recognition on the image data of the entire area of ​​the medium Ima. The processing circuit 11 acquires character information and recognizes the string corresponding to the destination name from the character information. For example, suppose the destination information stored in storage 13 includes the destination names "AAA", "BBB", "CCC", and "DDD". In this example, the processing circuit 11 recognizes the strings corresponding to "AAA", "BBB", "CCC", and "DDD" from the character information acquired from the image data of the entire area of ​​the medium Ima.

[0064] (Example of a recipient display image) Figure 5 shows an example of a destination display image shown in the image reading device 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 5 shows the destination display image Imb. The destination display image Imb includes the destination area Ara, the checkbox area Arb, the page turning area Arc, the OK button Ba, and the cancel button Bb. The recipient display image (Imb) may include a message prompting the user to select a recipient for the image data. For example, the message might be, "Please select a recipient."

[0065] The destination area Ara is an area for displaying destination information. The destination area Ara displays the destination name recognized by the processing circuit 11 and information indicating the destination associated with the destination name. The processing circuit 11 obtains information indicating the destination associated with the destination name based on the destination information stored in the storage 13. The processing circuit 11 displays the destination name and the information indicating the destination on the display device 201 in association with each other. The processing circuit 11 may also display only the information indicating the destination on the display device 201. In the example in Figure 5, the destination area Ara includes destination addresses associated with the destination names "AAA", "BBB", "CCC", and "DDD".

[0066] The checkbox area Arb includes checkboxes into which a destination instruction can be entered to select a destination. By selecting checkboxes, the user can select the destination to which image data will be sent. The user may select multiple checkboxes. The processing circuit 11 may receive a destination instruction that selects multiple destinations.

[0067] The page navigation area Arc includes page navigation buttons that allow input of instructions for displaying destination information not shown on display device 201. The page navigation buttons include a "Previous Page" button and a "Next Page" button.

[0068] The OK button Ba is an input device that allows the user to enter a confirmation instruction. By selecting the OK button Ba, the user can confirm the destination. The Cancel button Bb is an input that allows the user to input a cancellation instruction. By selecting the Cancel button Bb, the user can cancel the selected destination.

[0069] In this example, the user of the image reading device 1 can easily select a destination based on the displayed destination image. For example, if the processing circuit 11 extracts multiple destination names, the user can select a desired destination from among the multiple destination names. Therefore, the image reading device 1 can easily transmit data such as image data.

[0070] (Another example of a medium) Figure 6 shows another example of a medium according to the embodiment. Figure 6 shows the medium Imc. The medium Imc represents an invoice. An invoice is, for example, a paper document. The medium Imc includes the sender's name and the recipient's name. The sender's name and the recipient's name contain strings corresponding to the recipient's name. The medium Imc includes a designated area Ard. The designated area Ard is the area that contains the strings corresponding to the recipient's name. For example, since an invoice includes the sender's name and the recipient's name at the top of the medium, the designated area Ard represents the area at the top of the medium. The designated area Ard is, for example, an area based on area designation information stored in storage 13.

[0071] The processing circuit 11 performs character recognition on the image data within the designated area Ard of the image on the medium Imc. The processing circuit 11 acquires character information from the designated area Ard and recognizes a string corresponding to the destination name from the character information. For example, suppose the destination information stored in storage 13 contains the destination names "AAA" and "BBB". In this example, the processing circuit 11 recognizes the strings corresponding to "AAA" and "BBB" from the character information acquired from the image data of the image within the designated area Ard of the medium Imc.

[0072] (Another example of a recipient display image) Figure 7 shows another example of a destination display image displayed on the image reading device 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 shows the destination display image Imd. The destination display image Imd includes the destination area Are, the checkbox area Arf, the OK button Ba, and the cancel button Bb. The destination display image (Imd), like the destination display image (Imb), may include a message prompting the user to select a destination for the image data.

[0073] The destination area Are, like the destination area Ara, is an area that displays destination information. The destination area Are displays the destination name recognized by the processing circuit 11 and information indicating the destination associated with the destination name. In the example in Figure 7, the destination area Are includes the destination address associated with the destination names "AAA" and "BBB", and the destination folder path.

[0074] The checkbox area Arf, like the checkbox area Arb, contains checkboxes into which a destination instruction can be entered to select a destination. The user may select multiple checkboxes. For example, the user may select a destination address and a destination folder path for a single destination name. The processing circuit 11 may receive a destination instruction that selects multiple destinations.

[0075] The OK button Ba and the Cancel button Bb are the same as the destination display image Imb.

[0076] In this example, the image reader 1 can recognize a string corresponding to a destination name from the image data of an image within a specified area of ​​the medium. Therefore, the image reader 1 can perform character recognition processing only on the image data of the image within the specified area. This allows the image reader 1 to reduce the processing load of character recognition. In addition, the image reader 1 can display a destination display image that includes information indicating multiple destinations. The user of the image reader 1 can easily select a destination based on the displayed destination display image. For example, if the processing circuit 11 has obtained information indicating multiple destinations associated with a destination name, the user can select a desired destination from among the information indicating multiple destinations. For example, the user can select either a destination address or a destination folder path associated with a destination name. Therefore, the image reader 1 can improve the convenience of transmitting data such as image data.

[0077] (modified version) In this example, the processing circuit 11 recognizes the destination item contained in the image of the medium and obtains destination information associated with the destination item. The processing circuit 11 obtains destination information based on the registration information stored in the storage 13. Before scanning the medium, the user of the image reading device 1 inserts a predetermined string of characters or a predetermined image into the margin of the medium. The user may, for example, insert a predetermined string of characters by hand.

[0078] (Example of operation) The procedure for processing by the data transmission system S will be explained below. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Depending on the embodiment, each process may be omitted or replaced, and new processes may be added.

[0079] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a modified example of the information processing procedure by the image reading device 1 according to the embodiment. In the following process, the user of the image reading device 1 shall have the medium read. The medium may be, for example, a printed email, an invoice, or a circulating document. Before having the medium read, the user shall handwrite a predetermined string of characters in the margin of the medium. Note that the user is not limited to handwriting the recipient item and may insert it by any means. The following process begins when the medium set in the automatic document feeder 310 is read by the scanner unit 300 at the operation of the user of the image reading device 1. Note that the medium may also be read by the scanner unit 300 without using the automatic document feeder 310.

[0080] The scanner unit 300 of the image reading device 1 reads the image on the medium.

[0081] The processing circuit 11 acquires image data of the medium image (ACT11), similar to ACT1. The processing of ACT11 may also be performed by the acquisition unit 110 implemented by the processing circuit 11. The processing circuit 11 acquires image data that is included in the entire area of ​​the medium image. Alternatively, the processing circuit 11 may acquire image data included in a specified area of ​​the medium image based on area specification information.

[0082] The processing circuit 11 determines whether the image data contains the destination item (ACT12). The processing of ACT2 may also be performed by the recognition unit 111 implemented by the processing circuit 11.

[0083] In one example, processing circuit 11 performs character recognition processing on image data. Processing circuit 11 determines whether a predetermined string, which is the destination item, is included in the character information. Processing circuit 11 obtains registration information from storage 13. Processing circuit 11 compares the predetermined string included in the registration information with the character information obtained from the image data. Processing circuit 11 extracts a string from the character information that matches the predetermined string included in the registration information. The string that matches the predetermined string is also called the string corresponding to the destination item. If processing circuit 11 finds that the image data contains the string corresponding to the destination item, it determines that the image data contains the destination item. If processing circuit 11 finds that the character information does not contain the string corresponding to the destination item, it determines that the image data does not contain the destination item.

[0084] In another example, the processing circuit 11 performs image recognition processing on the image data. The processing circuit 11 determines whether the image data contains a predetermined image which is the destination item. The processing circuit 11 obtains registration information from the storage 13. The processing circuit 11 compares the predetermined image contained in the registration information with the image data. The processing circuit 11 extracts an image that matches the predetermined image contained in the registration information. An image that matches the predetermined image is also called an image corresponding to the destination item. If the image data contains an image corresponding to the destination item, the processing circuit 11 determines that the image data contains the destination item. If the image data does not contain an image corresponding to the destination item, the processing circuit 11 determines that the image data does not contain the destination item.

[0085] If the image data contains the destination item (ACT12: YES), the process transitions from ACT12 to ACT15. If the image data does not contain the destination item (ACT12: NO), the process transitions from ACT12 to ACT13.

[0086] Similar to ACT4, the processing circuit 11 displays the destination input image on the display device 201 based on the fact that the image data does not contain the destination item (ACT13). The processing in ACT13 may also be performed by the display processing unit 113 implemented by the processing circuit 11. The user inputs destination information into the destination input box via the input device 202.

[0087] The processing circuit 11 acquires destination information (ACT14) based on user input, similar to ACT5. The processing of ACT14 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. The processing circuit 11 may acquire destination information as a destination instruction. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire a destination instruction based on a confirmation instruction that confirms the destination information. A confirmation instruction is, for example, an instruction based on the operation of the "OK" button included in the destination input image. For example, the "OK" button is an operator that allows the user to input a confirmation instruction.

[0088] The processing circuit 11 obtains destination information (ACT 15) based on the fact that the image data contains a destination item. The processing in ACT 15 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT 15, for example, the processing circuit 11 obtains information indicating the destination based on the destination item. Specifically, the processing circuit 11 recognizes the destination item from the image data. The processing circuit 11 obtains information specifying the destination associated with the destination item based on the registration information. The processing circuit 11 obtains information indicating the destination based on the information specifying the destination. The processing circuit 11 identifies the destination name based on the information specifying the destination. For example, the processing circuit 11 refers to the destination information stored in the storage 13 and obtains the destination name based on the information specifying the destination. The processing circuit 11 refers to the destination information and obtains information indicating the destination based on the destination name. For example, let's explain using the case where the destination item is "TO ME". The processing circuit 11 recognizes the destination item "TO ME" from the image data. The processing circuit 11 obtains information specifying the destination associated with the destination item "TO ME" based on the registration information. In this example, the processing circuit 11 obtains "authenticated user" as information specifying the destination. The processing circuit 11 obtains information identifying the authenticated user. The processing circuit 11 may, for example, obtain information indicating the authenticated user obtained in the authentication process. For example, the processing circuit 11 obtains the username "AAA" of the authenticated user. The processing circuit 11 refers to the destination information and obtains "AAA" as the destination name. The processing circuit 11 obtains information indicating the destination associated with the destination name "AAA". The processing circuit 11 obtains at least one of the destination address and destination folder path associated with the destination name "AAA" as information indicating the destination.

[0089] The processing circuit 11 displays destination information on the display device 201, similar to ACT6 (ACT16). The processing in ACT16 may also be performed by the display processing unit 113 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT16, for example, the processing circuit 11 displays a destination display image on the display device 201 that includes the destination name and information indicating the destination associated with the destination name.

[0090] The user enters destination instructions to specify the destination based on the destination display image. For example, the user selects a checkbox included in the destination display image. The user selects information indicating at least one destination.

[0091] The processing circuit 11, similar to ACT7, acquires a destination instruction based on the user's selection of a checkbox (ACT17). The processing of ACT7 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire a destination instruction based on a confirmation instruction that confirms the destination specification included in the destination display image.

[0092] The processing circuit 11 sets the destination of the image data based on the destination instruction, similar to ACT8 (ACT18). The processing of ACT18 may also be performed by the destination processing unit 112 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In one example, the processing circuit 11 sets the destination of the image data based on information indicating a destination selected by the user. In another example, the processing circuit 11 sets the destination of the image data based on destination information entered by the user. For example, the processing circuit 11 sets at least one of the destination address and the destination folder path as the destination of the image data.

[0093] The processing circuit 11 removes the destination item from the image data (ACT 19). The processing of ACT 19 may also be performed by the transmission processing unit 114 implemented by the processing circuit 11. The processing circuit 11 removes the destination item recognized from the image data. The process of removing the destination item can be implemented by any method.

[0094] The processing circuit 11, similar to ACT9, transmits the image data to the destination indicated by the destination information (ACT20). The processing in ACT20 may also be performed by the transmission processing unit 114 implemented by the processing circuit 11. In ACT20, for example, the processing circuit 11 outputs the image data with the destination item deleted to the user terminal 2, which is the destination, via the communication circuit 400.

[0095] In this example, the image reading device 1 recognizes a predetermined string of characters or a predetermined image contained in a medium read by the scanner, and can obtain destination information based on the predetermined string of characters or the predetermined image. For example, the image reading device 1 can read a medium with a scanner, obtain character information from the image data of the medium, and extract a predetermined string of characters pre-set by the user from the character information. The image reading device 1 obtains information specifying the destination corresponding to the extracted predetermined string of characters, and can identify the destination based on the information specifying the destination. Therefore, the user can easily set the destination to which image data will be sent by inserting a predetermined string of characters into the medium. For example, if the predetermined string of characters "TO ME" is associated with "authenticated user", the user can send the image data to themselves, the authenticated user, by inserting "TO ME" into the medium. Even if the image reading device 1 recognizes the same string of characters "TO ME", it can set a different destination based on the information specifying the destination. For example, even if the image reading device 1 recognizes the same string of characters "TO ME", if the authenticated user changes, it can set the destination for that authenticated user each time. Therefore, the image reader 1 can set different destinations without recognizing individual usernames. This makes it easier for the image reader 1 to set destinations for image data and other data, and to facilitate data transmission. Furthermore, the image reader 1 can enhance the convenience of data transmission.

[0096] (Examples of media in the modified examples) Figure 9 shows an example of a medium related to a modified embodiment. Figure 9 shows the medium Ime. The medium Ime shows an invoice similar to the medium Imc. The medium Ime includes a destination item area Ma. The destination item area Ma includes a destination item. The destination item area Ma shows, for example, a predetermined string or a predetermined image. The destination item is, for example, a destination item included in the registration information stored in storage 13.

[0097] The processing circuit 11 recognizes the destination item in the destination item area Ma. Assume that the registration information stored in storage 13 includes the destination item "TO ME". In this example, the processing circuit 11 recognizes the string corresponding to the destination item "TO ME" obtained from the image data of the image on the medium Imc.

[0098] (Example of a destination display image in a modified example) Figure 10 shows an example of a destination display image shown on the image reading device 1 according to a modified embodiment. Figure 10 shows the destination display image Imf. The destination display image Imf includes the destination area Arg, the checkbox area Arh, the OK button Ba, and the Cancel button Bb. The destination display image Imf, like the destination display image Imd, may include a message prompting the user to select a destination for the image data.

[0099] The destination area Arg, like the destination area Ara, is an area that displays destination information. The destination area Arg displays the destination name recognized by the processing circuit 11 and information indicating the destination associated with that destination name. In the example in Figure 10, the destination area Arg includes "CCC," which is the "authenticated user" associated with the destination item "TO ME," as the destination name. The destination area Arg also includes the destination address associated with the destination name "CCC" and the destination folder path.

[0100] The checkbox area Arh, like the checkbox area Arb, contains checkboxes into which a destination instruction can be entered to select a destination. The user may select multiple checkboxes. For example, the user may select a destination address and a destination folder path for a single destination name. The processing circuit 11 may receive a destination instruction that selects multiple destinations.

[0101] The OK button Ba and the Cancel button Bb are the same as the destination display image Imb.

[0102] In this example, the user of the image reading device 1 can easily select a destination based on the displayed destination image. For example, if the processing circuit 11 obtains information indicating multiple destinations as destinations for an "authenticated user" associated with a predetermined string "TO ME", the user can select a desired destination from among the information indicating multiple destinations. For example, the user can select at least one of their own destination address and destination folder path. Therefore, the image reading device 1 can improve the convenience of transmitting data such as image data.

[0103] (Other embodiments) The image reading device may be implemented as a single electronic device, such as image reading device 1, or as multiple electronic devices with distributed functions.

[0104] Although the printer unit 700 has been described as a printer unit using a tandem-type toner image transfer unit, it is not limited to this. The printer unit 700 may also be an inkjet printer unit.

[0105] The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by the device. The embodiments described above may be applied to a program that can cause the device's computer to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0106] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0107] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0108] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0109] (Note) The above-described embodiment can be configured as follows. (1) A scanner unit that reads images from the medium, A recognition unit that recognizes name information from the image of the medium read by the scanner unit, A destination processing unit obtains information indicating the destination based on the aforementioned name information, A transmission processing unit that transmits the image of the medium to the destination based on the information indicating the destination, An image reading device equipped with [a specific feature]. (2) The recognition unit recognizes name information from an image within a predetermined area of ​​the medium. (1) The image reading device described in (1). (3) The system further comprises a display processing unit that displays information indicating the destination obtained by the destination processing unit, (1) The image reading device described in (1). (4) The recognition unit recognizes a predetermined string of characters or a predetermined image contained in the medium, The destination processing unit acquires information indicating the destination based on the predetermined string or the predetermined image. (1) The image reading device described in (1). (5) Reading images from a medium, Recognizing name information from the image of the aforementioned medium, Based on the aforementioned name information, information indicating the destination is obtained, Based on the information indicating the destination, the image of the medium is sent to the destination. An information processing method comprising the following: (6) To the computer, The scanner unit has a function to recognize name information from the image of the medium it reads, A function to obtain information indicating the destination based on the aforementioned name information, A function to send the image of the medium to the destination based on the information indicating the destination, An information processing program capable of executing [the specified action]. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 1…Image reading device, 2…User terminal, 11…Processing circuit, 12…Main memory, 13…Storage, 71…Storage unit, 72…Transport unit, 73…Image forming unit, 74…Fixing unit, 100…Control unit, 110…Acquisition unit, 111…Recognition unit, 112…Destination processing unit, 113…Display processing unit, 114…Transmission processing unit, 200…Control panel, 201…Display device, 202…Input device, 300…Scanner unit, 310…Automatic document feeder, 400…Communication circuit, 500…Input / output interface, 60 0...Power circuit, 700...Printer unit, Ara...Destination area, Arb...Checkbox area, Arc...Page feed area, Ard...Specify area, Are...Destination area, Arf...Checkbox area, Arg...Destination area, Arh...Checkbox area, Ba...OK button, Bb...Cancel button, Ima...Media, Imb...Destination display image, Imc...Media, Imd...Destination display image, Ime...Media, Imf...Destination display image, Ma...Destination item area, NW...Network, S...Data transmission system.

Claims

1. A scanner unit that reads images from the media, A recognition unit that recognizes name information from the image of the medium read by the scanner unit, A destination processing unit obtains information indicating the destination based on the aforementioned name information, A transmission processing unit that transmits the image of the medium to the destination based on the information indicating the destination, An image reading device equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The recognition unit recognizes name information from an image within a predetermined area of ​​the medium. The image reading device according to claim 1.

3. The system further includes a display processing unit that displays information indicating the destination obtained by the destination processing unit. The image reading device according to claim 1.

4. The recognition unit recognizes a predetermined string of characters or a predetermined image contained in the medium. The destination processing unit acquires information indicating the destination based on the predetermined string or the predetermined image. The image reading device according to claim 1.

5. Reading images from a medium, Recognizing name information from the image of the aforementioned medium, Based on the aforementioned name information, information indicating the destination is obtained, Based on the information indicating the destination, the image of the medium is sent to the destination. An information processing method comprising the following:

6. On the computer, The scanner unit has a function to recognize name information from the image of the medium it reads, A function to obtain information indicating the destination based on the aforementioned name information, A function to send the image of the medium to the destination based on the information indicating the destination, An information processing program capable of executing [the specified action].

Images