Image reading device

Abstract

To provide an image reading device that can reduce the risk of decreased processing efficiency. [Solution] The image reading device 11 includes a supply tray 18 on which multiple documents M0 are stacked, a transport roller 25 that transports the topmost document M0 among the multiple documents stacked on the supply tray, a separation roller 26 that faces the transport roller and separates the other documents M0 from the topmost document, a reading unit 13 that reads the topmost document transported from the supply tray, and a control unit 37 that determines whether the topmost document transported from the supply tray is a document bound with other documents. If the control unit determines that the topmost document is a document bound with other documents, it rotates the transport roller to transport the topmost document in reverse, and after transporting the topmost document in reverse, it rotates the transport roller and the separation roller to transport the topmost document without separating it from other documents.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an image reading apparatus that sequentially reads documents by conveying a plurality of documents stacked on a supply tray one by one. The image reading apparatus is configured to detect documents bound in a bundle. When the image reading apparatus detects a document bound in a bundle, it stops the conveyance of the document. This reduces the risk of document jamming in the image reading apparatus. After the user removes the bound document from the image reading apparatus, the user restarts the conveyance of documents in the image reading apparatus.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such an image reading apparatus, the conveyance of documents stops each time a document bound in a bundle is detected. In this case, user operations such as removing the bound document and retrying the conveyance are required. Therefore, there is a risk that the processing efficiency of the image reading apparatus will decrease.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] An image reading device that solves the above problems comprises: a supply tray on which multiple documents are loaded; a transport roller for transporting the topmost document among the multiple documents loaded on the supply tray; a separation roller facing the transport roller and separating other documents from the topmost document; a reading unit for reading the topmost document transported from the supply tray; and a control unit for determining whether the topmost document transported from the supply tray is a document bound with other documents. If the control unit determines that the topmost document is a document bound with other documents, it rotates the transport roller to transport the topmost document in the reverse direction, and after transporting the topmost document in the reverse direction, it rotates the transport roller and the separation roller to transport the topmost document without separating other documents from it. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image reading device equipped with a transport mechanism. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view of the supply tray on which documents with bound rear ends are stacked. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view of the supply tray on which documents with stapled ends are stacked. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the transport process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The following describes an example of an image reading device with reference to the diagram. An image reading device is a sheet-fed scanner that reads images recorded on a document (medium) such as paper or film by transporting the document.

[0008] <Image reading device> As shown in Figure 1, the image reading device 11 includes a transport device 12. The transport device 12 is configured to transport the original document M0. More specifically, the transport device 12 is configured to transport multiple original documents M0 one by one in succession.

[0009] The image reading device 11 includes a reading unit 13. The reading unit 13 is configured to read a document M0. More specifically, the reading unit 13 is configured to read multiple documents M0 transported by a transport device 12. The reading unit 13 is located within the transport device 12. The reading unit 13 reads the document M0 while it is being transported by the transport device 12. The reading unit 13 reads multiple documents M0 transported by the transport device 12 one after the other. The reading unit 13 may be configured to read one side of the transported document M0 or to read both sides. The reading unit 13 includes an image sensor. The reading unit 13 includes, for example, a CISM. The reading unit 13 may be configured to read the document M0 in full color or to read the document M0 in grayscale.

[0010] <Conveying device> The conveying device 12 includes a housing 14. In one example, the housing 14 houses the reading unit 13. In addition to the reading unit 13, the housing 14 may also house various components of the conveying device 12.

[0011] The housing 14 has a supply path 15. The supply path 15 extends inside the housing 14. The supply path 15 is the path through which the document M0 supplied to the reading unit 13 passes. The document M0 is supplied into the housing 14 through the supply path 15. The supply path 15 is a path that extends toward the reading unit 13. The reading unit 13 is located in the middle of the supply path 15.

[0012] The housing 14 has one or more discharge paths. In one example, the housing 14 has a first discharge path 16 and a second discharge path 17. The discharge paths extend inside the housing 14. The discharge paths extend from the supply path 15. The discharge paths are the paths through which the original document M0 that has passed through the reading unit 13 passes. The original document M0 is discharged from inside the housing 14 through the discharge paths.

[0013] The first discharge path 16 and the second discharge path 17 extend from the supply path 15 as if branching off. The first discharge path 16 and the second discharge path 17 extend from the supply path 15 in a bifurcated manner. The first discharge path 16 is a curved path. In one example, the first discharge path 16 extends from the supply path 15 in a curved manner so as to invert the orientation of the document M0 vertically. The second discharge path 17 is a straight path. In one example, the second discharge path 17 extends straight from the supply path 15 without changing the orientation of the document M0.

[0014] The transport device 12 includes a supply tray 18. The supply tray 18 is a tray on which multiple documents M0 are stacked. The supply tray 18 is a tray on which documents M0 are stacked before scanning. The supply tray 18 extends, for example, from the housing 14. The supply tray 18 extends from the housing 14 to guide the documents M0 to the supply path 15. In one example, the supply tray 18 extends from the housing 14 with an upward slope. This makes it easier for the documents M0 to be guided from the supply tray 18 to the supply path 15.

[0015] The supply tray 18 has a loading surface 19. The loading surface 19 is the surface on which the original document M0 is loaded. The loading surface 19 is the surface of the supply tray 18 that faces upward. A reference line 20 may be formed on the loading surface 19. The reference line 20 may be printed on the loading surface 19 or may be formed by grooves engraved on the loading surface 19.

[0016] The reference line 20 is a reference line for the document M0 loaded into the supply tray 18. For example, if the reference line 20 and the trailing edge of the document M0 are parallel, the document M0 can enter the supply path 15 normally. If the trailing edge of the document M0 is tilted relative to the reference line 20, the document M0 may enter the supply path 15 at an angle. The reference line 20 should be positioned on the loading surface 19 in a location that does not overlap with the document M0.

[0017] The conveyance device 12 includes one or more discharge trays. In one example, the conveyance device 12 includes a first discharge tray 21 and a second discharge tray 22. The discharge tray is a tray on which one or more documents M0 are stacked. The discharge tray is a tray that receives the document M0 that has passed through the reading unit 13. The discharge tray is a discharge destination of the document M0. The discharge tray receives the document M0 discharged from the inside of the housing 14 through a discharge path. The discharge tray receives, for example, the document M0 after reading.

[0018] The first discharge tray 21 receives the document M0 discharged from the inside of the housing 14 through the first discharge path 16. In one example, the first discharge tray 21 is configured by the upper surface of the housing 14. The second discharge tray 22 receives the document M0 discharged from the inside of the housing 14 through the second discharge path 17. In one example, the second discharge tray 22 extends from the housing 14.

[0019] The conveyance device 12 includes a conveyance unit 23. The conveyance unit 23 is configured to convey the document M0. The conveyance unit 23 conveys the document M0 from the supply tray 18 toward the discharge tray. The conveyance unit 23 conveys the document M0 from the supply tray 18 toward the first discharge tray 21, or conveys the document M0 from the supply tray 18 toward the second discharge tray 22. The conveyance unit 23 sequentially conveys the plurality of documents M0 one by one from the supply tray 18. The conveyance unit 23 conveys the document M0 along the supply path 15. The conveyance unit 23 conveys the document M0 along the discharge path.

[0020] The conveyance unit 23 has a pickup roller 24. The pickup roller 24 is a roller that supplies the document M0 from the supply tray 18 to the supply path 15. The pickup roller 24 is positioned so as to come into contact with the uppermost document M0 among the plurality of documents M0 stacked on the supply tray 18. The pickup roller 24 supplies the uppermost document M0 among the plurality of documents M0 stacked on the supply tray 18 into the housing 14. The pickup roller 24 conveys the document M0 stacked on the supply tray 18 in the conveyance direction Y1. The conveyance direction Y1 is the direction from the supply tray 18 toward the housing 14.

[0021] The conveyance unit 23 includes a conveyance roller 25. The conveyance roller 25 is a roller that conveys the document M0 supplied by the pickup roller 24 to the reading unit 13. The conveyance roller 25 conveys the document M0 supplied by the pickup roller 24 along the supply path 15. The conveyance roller 25 conveys the uppermost document M0 among the plurality of documents M0 stacked on the supply tray 18. The conveyance roller 25 rotates to convey the document M0, and rotates to convey the document M0 in the reverse direction. The conveyance roller 25 conveys the document M0 toward the reading unit 13, and conveys the document M0 in the reverse direction toward the supply tray 18.

[0022] The conveyance unit 23 includes a separation roller 26. The separation roller 26 is positioned to face the conveyance roller 25. Therefore, the separation roller 26 and the conveyance roller 25 sandwich the document M0. The separation roller 26 and the conveyance roller 25 sandwich the document M0 supplied by the pickup roller 24.

[0023] The separation roller 26 is a roller that separates the plurality of documents M0 one by one. In the conveyance device 12, the pickup roller 24 may supply the plurality of documents M0 to the supply path 15. For example, the pickup roller 24 may supply the uppermost document M0 and another document M0 to the supply path 15 in an overlapping state. The separation roller 26 separates the plurality of documents M0 supplied by the pickup roller 24 one by one. The separation roller 26 separates other documents M0 from the uppermost document M0.

[0024] The separation roller 26 is configured to apply torque in the direction that returns the document M0 from the supply path 15 towards the supply tray 18. The separation roller 26 may be configured to rotate in the direction that returns the document M0 to the supply tray 18 due to this torque, or it may be configured so that this torque makes it difficult for the document M0 to rotate in the direction that sends the document M0 to the reading unit 13. When multiple documents M0 enter between the transport roller 25 and the separation roller 26, the documents M0 that come into contact with the transport roller 25 are sent to the reading unit 13, while the documents M0 that come into contact with the separation roller 26 are not sent to the reading unit 13. Specifically, the documents M0 that come into contact with the transport roller 25 are supplied to the reading unit 13, while the documents M0 that come into contact with the separation roller 26 remain stationary. As a result, the documents M0 are transported one by one from the supply tray 18 towards the reading unit 13.

[0025] The separation roller 26 is configured to allow switching of its separation function. The separation roller 26 is configured to allow switching of torque application, for example. This allows the separation roller 26 to rotate in a way that separates the document M0 or to rotate in a way that does not separate the document M0. When the separation function is turned off, the separation roller 26 rotates in a way that does not separate the document M0. In this case, the separation roller 26 rotates together with the transport roller 25 to feed the document M0 toward the reading unit 13.

[0026] The transport unit 23 has one or more rotating rollers 27. In one example, the transport unit 23 has multiple rotating rollers 27. The rotating rollers 27 are rollers that transport the document M0 along the supply path 15 and the discharge path. The rotating rollers 27 transport the document M0 supplied into the housing 14 toward the discharge tray. The rotating rollers 27 transport the document M0 supplied by the transport rollers 25 toward the discharge tray.

[0027] The transport device 12 may also include a path switching mechanism 28. The path switching mechanism 28 is a mechanism that switches the discharge path through which the document M0 passes. The path switching mechanism 28 switches the path through which the document M0 passes between a first discharge path 16 and a second discharge path 17. By switching the discharge path, the path switching mechanism 28 guides the document M0 to the first discharge tray 21 or to the second discharge tray 22.

[0028] The route switching mechanism 28 may include a flap 29. The flap 29 is configured to block the first discharge path 16 or the second discharge path 17. The route switching mechanism 28 may switch the discharge path using the flap 29.

[0029] The path switching mechanism 28 may include a displacement mechanism 30. The displacement mechanism 30 is connected to a rotating roller 27 located at the branching point of the first discharge path 16 and the second discharge path 17. The displacement mechanism 30 is configured to displace the rotating roller 27. The displacement mechanism 30 switches the discharge path by displacing the rotating roller 27.

[0030] The path switching mechanism 28 displaces the rotating roller 27 so as to shift the nip point between the connected rotating roller 27 and the rotating roller 27 opposite it. In the example shown in Figure 1, the displacement mechanism 30 displaces the rotating roller 27 between the position shown by the solid line and the position shown by the dashed line. When the rotating roller 27 is in the position shown by the solid line, the document M0 is guided to the first discharge path 16. When the rotating roller 27 is in the position shown by the dashed line, the document M0 is guided to the second discharge path 17.

[0031] The displacement mechanism 30 may switch the discharge path by rotating the shaft of the rotating roller 27. The displacement mechanism 30 may switch the discharge path by, for example, rotating the shaft of the rotating roller 27 such that one end of the shaft of the rotating roller 27 is pivoted and the other end moves.

[0032] The transport device 12 may be equipped with a lift sensor 31. The lift sensor 31 is a sensor that detects the lifting of the document M0. The lift sensor 31 may be a contact type sensor or an optical type sensor. The lift sensor 31 is located along the supply path 15. The lift sensor 31 detects the lifting of the document M0 between the pickup roller 24 and the transport roller 25 in the supply path 15. The lift sensor 31 detects the lifting of the document M0 supplied from the supply tray 18. The lift sensor 31 detects the lifting of the document M0 supplied by the pickup roller 24. The lift sensor 31 detects the lifting of the document M0 being transported along the supply path 15.

[0033] The transport device 12 may include an imaging unit 32. The imaging unit 32 is positioned opposite the supply tray 18. The imaging unit 32 is positioned above the supply tray 18. The imaging unit 32 is positioned to image the original document M0 loaded on the supply tray 18. The imaging unit 32 is positioned to image at least the topmost original document M0 among the multiple original documents M0 loaded on the supply tray 18.

[0034] The imaging unit 32 generates imaging data D1 by imaging the original document M0. The imaging data D1 is image data of the original document M0 loaded into the supply tray 18. More specifically, the imaging data D1 is image data of at least the topmost original document M0 among the multiple original documents M0 loaded into the supply tray 18. The imaging data D1 may be full-color image data or grayscale image data.

[0035] The imaging unit 32 is positioned so as to capture at least the rear end of the original document M0. The imaging unit 32 may also be positioned so as to capture the front end of the original document M0. For example, the imaging unit 32 may photograph the original document M0 so as to capture the entire original document M0 from the front end to the rear end.

[0036] The imaging unit 32 is mounted on the housing 14. The imaging unit 32 extends from the housing 14 towards directly above the supply tray 18. The imaging unit 32 may be configured to be housed within the housing 14. The imaging unit 32 may have an imaging section 33. The imaging section 33 is configured to photograph the original document M0. The imaging section 33 includes, for example, a camera. The imaging unit 32 may have a support section 34. The support section 34 is configured to support the imaging section 33. The support section 34 extends from the housing 14. The support section 34 is, for example, an arm.

[0037] The imaging unit 32 may be configured to be adjustable in position. The imaging unit 32 may be configured to adjust the position of the imaging unit 33, for example, by moving the support portion 34. The imaging unit 32 may be configured to adjust its position manually or to adjust its position automatically. This allows the imaging unit 32 to properly image the original document M0 loaded in the supply tray 18.

[0038] The transport device 12 may be configured to allow the attachment of a different imaging device from the image reading device 11 and the transport device 12. The imaging device may be, for example, a smartphone or handheld camera owned by the user. The imaging device may be attached to the transport device 12 so that it can photograph the original document M0 loaded on the supply tray 18. The transport device 12 may include, for example, a base, a mounting arm, etc., on which the imaging device can be installed.

[0039] The transport device 12 may include an illumination unit 35. The illumination unit 35 is configured to emit light toward the supply tray 18. The illumination unit 35 is positioned opposite the supply tray 18. The illumination unit 35 emits light toward the original document M0 loaded on the supply tray 18. This makes it easier for the imaging unit 32 to image the original document M0.

[0040] The lighting unit 35 may be attached to the imaging unit 32. The position of the lighting unit 35 may be adjusted in accordance with the adjustment of the position of the imaging unit 32. The lighting unit 35 may be configured to be able to adjust its position independently of the imaging unit 32. In this case, the lighting unit 35 may be attached to the housing 14 independently of the imaging unit 32. The lighting unit 35 may be configured to be housed in the housing 14.

[0041] The illumination unit 35 may be configured to allow adjustment of light intensity. The illumination unit 35 may be configured to automatically adjust the light intensity, or it may be configured to allow manual adjustment by the user. The illumination unit 35 adjusts the light intensity so that the original document M0 is properly captured in the captured data D1. The illumination unit 35 may adjust the light intensity so that the original document M0 and the supply tray 18 are easily distinguishable in the captured data D1. The illumination unit 35 may adjust the light intensity so that the edges of the original document M0 are emphasized in the captured data D1. The illumination unit 35 may adjust the light intensity based on how well the adjustment object formed on the supply tray 18 is captured.

[0042] The transport device 12 may include a storage unit 36. The storage unit 36 ​​is configured to store one or more programs. The storage unit 36 ​​stores a program that causes the transport device 12 to transport the document M0. The storage unit 36 ​​may also store a program that causes the image reader 11 to read the document M0. The storage unit 36 ​​includes memory such as ROM or RAM. The storage unit 36 ​​may also include a storage medium such as an HDD or SSD.

[0043] The storage unit 36 ​​may store data used during transport, reading, etc., in addition to the program. The storage unit 36 ​​stores the image capture data D1. For example, the storage unit 36 ​​stores the image capture data D1 generated by the image capture unit 32. The storage unit 36 ​​may also store the image capture data D1 transmitted from an external device other than the image reading device 11 and the transport device 12.

[0044] The memory unit 36 ​​may store one or more threshold values. For example, the memory unit 36 ​​may store a first threshold value and a second threshold value. The threshold value is a numerical value used to determine whether the highest-order document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0. More specifically, the threshold value is a value compared with the inclination of the document M0. The memory unit 36 ​​may store a threshold value for each size of the document M0, or a threshold value for each type of document M0.

[0045] The memory unit 36 ​​may store a pattern image. The pattern image is used to determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0. More specifically, the pattern image is used for pattern matching to the captured data D1.

[0046] The memory unit 36 ​​may store a machine learning model. The model is configured to output a determination value based on the captured data D1, indicating whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0. In one example, the model is configured to output a determination value when the captured data D1 is input. The model may also be configured to output a determination value when parameters indicating the features contained in the captured data D1 are input. The determination value includes, for example, a value indicating that the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0, and a value indicating that the topmost document M0 is not a document M0 bound with other documents M0.

[0047] The model is generated by training a machine learning model with training data. The machine learning model learns the correspondence between input parameters and output parameters based on the training data. This generates a model that is a mapping of input and output parameters. The training method may be supervised learning using a neural network or other methods. The training method may also be deep learning. The training data may be photographic data D1 showing bound documents M0, photographic data D1 showing unbound documents M0, or both. By training the machine learning model with such training data, a model is generated that classifies whether the document M0 shown in the photographic data D1 is a bound document M0 or an unbound document M0.

[0048] The transport device 12 may include a control unit 37. The control unit 37 is configured to execute processing according to a program stored in the storage unit 36. The control unit 37 includes a processor such as a CPU, GPU, or TPU. The control unit 37 is not limited to a processor and may also include hardware circuits such as an ASIC. In this way, the control unit 37, together with the storage unit 36, realizes a computer. Therefore, the transport device 12 includes a computer.

[0049] The control unit 37 is configured to comprehensively control the transport device 12. The control unit 37 may also control the reading unit 13. The control unit 37 may also be configured to comprehensively control the image reading device 11.

[0050] The control unit 37 is configured to acquire image data D1. In one example, the control unit 37 acquires image data D1 from the imaging unit 32. The control unit 37 may also acquire image data D1 from the imaging device. The control unit 37 may acquire image data D1 from the imaging device by communicating with the imaging device. The control unit 37 may also acquire image data D1 stored on an external computer. The control unit 37 stores the acquired image data D1 in the storage unit 36. The control unit 37 acquires image data D1 after the start of supply. In addition to image data D1 after the start of supply, the control unit 37 may also acquire image data D1 before the start of supply.

[0051] The control unit 37 is configured to analyze the captured data D1. The control unit 37 may analyze the captured data D1 by applying image processing to the captured data D1 according to a program. The control unit 37 may analyze the captured data D1 by applying contrast adjustment, pixel conversion, noise reduction, or edge enhancement to the captured data D1. The control unit 37 may analyze the captured data D1 by, for example, detecting the edges of the original document M0. The control unit 37 may analyze the captured data D1 by extracting features from the captured data D1 and inputting those features into a model. The control unit 37 may analyze the captured data D1 by inputting the captured data D1 into a model. The control unit 37 analyzes the captured data D1 after the start of supply. The control unit 37 may analyze the captured data D1 before the start of supply.

[0052] The control unit 37 may adjust the imaging unit 32 based on the imaging data D1. More specifically, the control unit 37 may adjust the position of the imaging unit 32 based on the imaging data D1 before the start of supply. The control unit 37 may adjust the position of the imaging unit 32 by analyzing the imaging data D1 before the start of supply. The control unit 37 may, for example, automatically adjust the position of the imaging unit 32. The control unit 37 may, for example, adjust the position of the imaging unit 32 by displaying a message on a screen such as an operation panel prompting the user to adjust the imaging unit 32. The control unit 37 adjusts the position of the imaging unit 32 so that the original document M0 is properly captured.

[0053] The control unit 37 may adjust the illumination unit 35 based on the captured data D1. More specifically, the control unit 37 may adjust the position, light intensity, etc. of the illumination unit 35 based on the captured data D1 before the start of supply. The control unit 37 may adjust the position, light intensity, etc. of the illumination unit 35 by analyzing the captured data D1 before the start of supply. The control unit 37 may, for example, automatically adjust the position, light intensity, etc. of the illumination unit 35. The control unit 37 may, for example, adjust the position and light intensity of the illumination unit 35 by displaying a message on the screen prompting the user to adjust the illumination unit 35. The control unit 37 adjusts the illumination unit 35 so that the original document M0 is properly captured.

[0054] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in the transport device 12, stapled documents M0 may be loaded onto the supply tray 18. In the transport device 12, for example, a first document M1 and a second document M2 from among multiple documents M0 may be loaded onto the supply tray 18 in a stapled state. Specifically, a first document M1 and a second document M2 that are stapled together may be loaded onto the supply tray 18. The first document M1 is the topmost document M0 among the multiple documents M0 loaded onto the supply tray 18. The second document M2 is the document M0 following the first document M1 among the multiple documents M0 loaded onto the supply tray 18. In the example shown in Figure 2, the trailing ends of the first document M1 and the second document M2 are stapled together. More specifically, in the example shown in Figure 2, the corners of the trailing ends of the first document M1 and the second document M2 are stapled together. In the example shown in Figure 3, the leading ends of the first document M1 and the second document M2 are stapled together. In detail, in the example shown in Figure 3, the leading edges of the first manuscript M1 and the second manuscript M2 are bound together at their corners.

[0055] When the trailing edges of the first manuscript M1 and the second manuscript M2 are bound together, as the first manuscript M1 is transported, the trailing edges of both the first manuscript M1 and the second manuscript M2 lift up. Specifically, as the first manuscript M1 precedes the second manuscript M2, the trailing edge of the first manuscript M1 pulls on the trailing edge of the second manuscript M2. This causes the trailing edges of both the first manuscript M1 and the second manuscript M2 to lift up. When the trailing edges of the first manuscript M1 and the second manuscript M2 lift up, a shadow S0 appears between the first manuscript M1 and the second manuscript M2.

[0056] When the leading edges of the first document M1 and the second document M2 are bound together, the first document M1 tilts relative to the second document M2 as it is transported. Specifically, the first document M1 is transported so that the unbound corner of the two corners located at the leading edge of the first document M1 leads the second document M2. This causes the first document M1 to tilt relative to the second document M2. When the first document M1 tilts relative to the second document M2, the inclination of the first edge line L1 changes relative to the inclination of the second edge line L2. The first edge line L1 is the line that indicates the edge of the first document M1. In one example, the first edge line L1 is the edge line that indicates the trailing end of the first document M1. The second edge line L2 is the line that indicates the edge of the second document M2. In one example, the second edge line L2 is the edge line that indicates the trailing end of the second document M2. Typically, the original document M0 is loaded onto the supply tray 18 so that its edge line is parallel to the reference line 20.

[0057] The control unit 37 is configured to determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 that has been bound together with other documents M0. In one example, the control unit 37 determines whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 that has been bound together with other documents M0 based on the captured data D1. The control unit 37 may determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 that has been bound together with other documents M0 based not only on the captured data D1, but also, for example, on the detection result of a sensor. The control unit 37 may determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 that has been bound together with other documents M0 when the sensor detects staples. The control unit 37 may also determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 that has been bound together with other documents M0 based on the load generated on the pickup roller 24, the transport roller 25, etc.

[0058] The control unit 37 determines whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the captured data D1 after the start of supply. The control unit 37 determines whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 by analyzing the captured data D1. The captured data D1 after the start of supply is data in which the first document M1 and the second document M2 have been captured. In the captured data D1 after the start of supply, the first document M1 is transported, so the second document M2 is captured. In the captured data D1 after the start of supply, if the first document M1 and the second document M2 are bound together, a shadow S0 may be captured between the first document M1 and the second document M2, or the first document M1 may be captured with the first edge line L1 tilted significantly relative to the second edge line L2.

[0059] The control unit 37 may detect a shadow S0 from the captured data D1. More specifically, the control unit 37 may detect a shadow S0 located between the first original document M1 and the second original document M2 by analyzing the captured data D1. The control unit 37 detects pixels indicating the shadow S0 in the captured data D1 based on their brightness values. The shadow S0 is indicated, for example, by pixels with a brightness lower than the brightness of the pixels indicating the original document M0 in the captured data D1.

[0060] The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the shadow S0. The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 when it detects the shadow S0. The control unit 37 may, for example, determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the presence or absence of the shadow S0 in the detection area R0. The detection area R0 is the area enclosed by the edge of the first document M1 and the edge of the second document M2. In the captured data D1, the detection area R0 is represented by pixels enclosed by pixels representing the edge of the first document M1 and pixels representing the edge of the second document M2. The control unit 37 detects the detection area R0 by detecting the edge of the first document M1 and the edge of the second document M2. The control unit 37 detects the detection area R0 by identifying the first document M1 and the second document M2. The control unit 37 may, for example, determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the presence or absence of a shadow S0 in the area occupied by the document M0. In this case, the control unit 37 can detect the shadow S0 between the first document M1 and the second document M2 without distinguishing between the first document M1 and the second document M2.

[0061] The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the shape of the shadow S0. The control unit 37 may perform pattern matching on the shape of the shadow S0. The control unit 37 may match the pattern image stored in the storage unit 36 ​​with the captured data D1. In this case, the pattern image is an image showing the shape of the shadow S0 that occurs between the first document M1 and the second document M2. The control unit 37 may determine that a shadow S0 is present between the first document M1 and the second document M2 if the shadow S0 of the captured data D1 matches the shadow S0 of the pattern image through pattern matching. That is, the control unit 37 may determine that a shadow S0 has been detected if the shadow S0 of the captured data D1 matches the shadow S0 of the pattern image. The control unit 37 may determine that the first document M1 is a bound document M0 if the shadow S0 of the captured data D1 matches the shadow S0 of the pattern image. By considering the shape of the shadow S0, the accuracy of determining whether the topmost document M0 is a bound document M0 is improved. For example, the risk of the control unit 37 misidentifying an image printed on the second document M2 as the shadow S0 is reduced.

[0062] The control unit 37 may detect edge lines from the captured data D1. More specifically, the control unit 37 may detect a first edge line L1 and a second edge line L2 by analyzing the captured data D1 after the start of feeding. The control unit 37 may also detect edge lines by, for example, binarizing the captured data D1. The control unit 37 may binarize the captured data D1 into pixels that represent the background color and pixels that represent other colors. In one example, the control unit 37 converts pixels that represent the background color to white and pixels that represent other colors to gray. The control unit 37 detects the contour of the area indicated by the gray pixels as the edge of the original document M0. More specifically, the control unit 37 detects points P1, P2, P3, and P4 located upstream in the transport direction Y1 among the contours of the area indicated by the gray pixels. Points P1, P2, P3, and P4 are characteristic points among the contours of the area representing the original document M0. Points P1, P2, P3, and P4 are, for example, points indicating corners of the original document M0, points where two original documents M0 intersect, etc. The straight line connecting points P1 and P2 indicates the second edge line L2. The straight line connecting points P3 and P4 indicates the first edge line L1. That is, the control unit 37 detects the first edge line L1 and the second edge line L2 by detecting points P1, P2, P3, and P4. The control unit 37 may also binarize the captured data D1 to extract the contours of the first original document M1 and the second original document M2. The control unit 37 may also detect the first edge line L1 and the second edge line L2 from the contours of the first original document M1 and the second original document M2.

[0063] The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the edge lines. The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the first edge line L1 and the second edge line L2. For example, the control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the shape of the first edge line L1 and the shape of the second edge line L2.

[0064] The control unit 37 may detect the inclination of the edge line from the captured data D1. In one example, the control unit 37 detects the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the reference line 20, and the inclination of the second edge line L2 with respect to the reference line 20. The control unit 37 may also calculate the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the second edge line L2, not limited to the inclination with respect to the reference line 20.

[0065] The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the inclination of the edge line. The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the reference line 20, and the inclination of the second edge line L2 with respect to the reference line 20. The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the second edge line L2. The control unit 37 may determine whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 based on the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the reference line 20.

[0066] The control unit 37 may compare the slope of the edge line with a threshold. In one example, the control unit 37 compares the slope of the first edge line L1 with respect to the reference line 20 with a first threshold. The control unit 37 compares the slope of the second edge line L2 with respect to the reference line 20 with a second threshold. The first and second thresholds may be the same value or may be different values.

[0067] The control unit 37 may determine that the first document M1 is a bound document M0 if the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the reference line 20 exceeds a first threshold, and the inclination of the second edge line L2 with respect to the reference line 20 is less than or equal to a second threshold. However, the control unit 37 may also determine that the first document M1 is a bound document M0 if, for example, the inclination of the first edge line L1 with respect to the second edge line L2 exceeds a threshold.

[0068] The control unit 37 may determine whether the document M0 is bound by means other than detecting shadows S0 and edge lines. For example, the control unit 37 may determine whether the document M0 is bound by comparing the image data D1 before the start of feeding with the image data D1 after the start of feeding. In other words, the control unit 37 may determine whether the document M0 is bound by detecting changes in the orientation of the document M0 based on the image data D1.

[0069] When the control unit 37 determines that the document M0 is bound, it rotates the transport roller 25 to transport the document M0 in reverse. That is, the control unit 37 rotates the transport roller 25 to return the document M0 to the supply tray 18. This eliminates the misalignment between the first document M1 and the second document M2 caused by the first document M1 preceding the second document M2. As the transport roller 25 transports the document M0 in reverse, the first document M1 and the second document M2 return to an overlapping position.

[0070] The control unit 37 reverses the transport roller 25 and the separation roller 26 to transport the document M0 without separating it after the document M0 has been transported in the reverse direction. Specifically, the control unit 37 transports the bound document M0 with the separation function of the separation roller 26 turned off. With the separation function turned off, the bound document M0 is transported without jamming between the transport roller 25 and the separation roller 26. The control unit 37 transports the bound document M0 directly from the supply path 15 to the discharge path without having the reading unit 13 read the bound document M0. As a result, the transport device 12 can discharge the bound document M0 to the discharge tray without requiring the user to remove it. Therefore, the risk of a decrease in processing efficiency is reduced.

[0071] The control unit 37 discharges bound documents M0 to the second discharge tray 22. More specifically, when the control unit 37 determines that a document M0 is bound, it guides that document M0 to the second discharge path 17. The control unit 37 discharges the bound documents M0 to the second discharge tray 22 via the second discharge path 17. The control unit 37 discharges unbound documents M0 to the first discharge tray 21. More specifically, when the control unit 37 determines that a document M0 is unbound, it guides that document M0 to the first discharge path 16. That is, the control unit 37 guides scanned documents M0 to the first discharge path 16. The control unit 37 discharges the unbound documents M0 to the first discharge tray 21 via the first discharge path 16. In this way, the transport device 12 can separate bound documents M0 from unbound documents M0.

[0072] When the leading edge of the document M0 is bound, it is more susceptible to damage during transport compared to when the trailing edge of the document M0 is bound. Specifically, the separation roller 26 attempts to separate the bound document M0, making it more prone to damage when the leading edge is bound. The separation roller 26 separates the documents M0 so that the leading edges of the first document M1 and the second document M2 are separated. Therefore, when the leading edge of the document M0 is bound, the load on the document M0 is greater.

[0073] The control unit 37 may temporarily stop the transport rollers 25 if the lift sensor 31 detects that the document M0 is lifting. When the leading edges of the first document M1 and the second document M2 are bound together, if the first document M1 and the second document M2 enter between the transport rollers 25 and the separation rollers 26, the first document M1 is likely to lift relative to the second document M2. Therefore, the control unit 37 determines that there is a risk of the bound document M0 being damaged when the lift sensor 31 detects that the document M0 is lifting. The control unit 37 temporarily stops the transport rollers 25 if there is a risk of the bound document M0 being damaged. This reduces the risk of damage to the document M0. If the lift sensor 31 does not detect that the document M0 is lifting, the control unit 37 continues to transport the document M0.

[0074] The control unit 37 temporarily stops the transport rollers 25 and then determines whether the document M0 is bound. The control unit 37 determines whether the document M0 is bound based on, for example, the captured data D1. If the control unit 37 determines that the document M0 is bound, it reverses the transport rollers 25 and turns off the separation function of the separation rollers 26. If the control unit 37 determines that the document M0 is not bound, it restarts the rotation of the transport rollers 25.

[0075] <Transportation Processing> Next, an example of the transport process will be described. The transport process is the process of transporting the original document M0. In one example, the transport process includes the process of reading the transported original document M0. The transport process is executed by the control unit 37 processing a program stored in the storage unit 36. The transport process is started, for example, when the user gives an instruction to start reading.

[0076] As shown in Figure 4, in step S11, the control unit 37 drives the pickup roller 24. As a result, the topmost of the multiple documents M0 loaded on the supply tray 18 is supplied to the supply path 15.

[0077] In step S12, the control unit 37 determines whether the lift sensor 31 has detected that the document M0 has lifted. If the lift sensor 31 has detected that the document M0 has lifted, the control unit 37 proceeds to step S13. If the lift sensor 31 has not detected that the document M0 has lifted, the control unit 37 proceeds to step S14.

[0078] In step S13, the control unit 37 temporarily stops the transport roller 25. If the lift sensor 31 detects that the document M0 is lifting, there is a risk that the document M0, which has its leading edge bound, is being transported. Therefore, the control unit 37 temporarily stops the transport roller 25 in order to minimize damage to the document M0.

[0079] In step S14, the control unit 37 acquires the image data D1. In one example, the control unit 37 acquires the image data D1 from the imaging unit 32. The control unit 37 may also acquire the image data D1 from an external imaging device.

[0080] In step S15, the control unit 37 determines whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0. In one example, the control unit 37 determines whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 with the second document M2 based on the captured data D1. The control unit 37 determines whether the first document M1 is a bound document M0 by analyzing the captured data D1 acquired in step S14.

[0081] In step S15, the control unit 37 first determines whether the document M0 has a bound leading edge. To do this, the control unit 37 detects the edge line by analyzing the captured data D1. Based on the edge line, the control unit 37 determines whether the document M0 has a bound leading edge. The control unit 37 determines whether the document M0 has a bound leading edge by comparing the inclination of the edge line with a threshold. If the control unit 37 determines that the document M0 has a bound leading edge, it proceeds to step S16.

[0082] In step S15, if the control unit 37 determines that the leading edge of the document M0 is not bound, it determines whether the trailing edge of the document M0 is bound. To do this, the control unit 37 detects the shadow S0 by analyzing the captured data D1. Based on the shadow S0, the control unit 37 determines whether the trailing edge of the document M0 is bound. If the control unit 37 determines that the trailing edge of the document M0 is bound, it proceeds to step S16. If the control unit 37 determines that the leading edge of the document M0 is not bound, and the trailing edge is not bound, it proceeds to step S20.

[0083] In step S16, the control unit 37 reverses the transport roller 25 to transport the original document M0. At this time, the control unit 37 reverses the transport so that the misalignment of the first original document M1 relative to the second original document M2 is eliminated. The control unit 37 controls the amount of drive of the transport roller 25 so that the misalignment of the first original document M1 relative to the second original document M2 is eliminated. The control unit 37 may, for example, control the amount of drive of the transport roller 25 based on the newly acquired imaging data D1 from the imaging unit 32. The control unit 37 may also control the amount of drive of the transport roller 25 based on the load acting on the transport roller 25. By the control unit 37 controlling the amount of drive of the transport roller 25, the first original document M1 and the second original document M2 return to the position where they overlap each other, as they were before the start of feeding.

[0084] In step S17, the control unit 37 turns off the separation function of the separation roller 26. For example, the control unit 37 cuts off the torque acting on the separation roller 26. As a result, the separation roller 26 rotates passively relative to the conveyor roller 25.

[0085] In step S18, the control unit 37 transports the document M0 using the transport roller 25 and the separation roller 26. That is, the control unit 37 retryes transporting the document M0 with the separation function turned off. By turning off the separation function, the control unit 37 can transport the bound document M0 without jamming. At this time, the control unit 37 does not read the document M0 with the reading unit 13.

[0086] In step S19, the control unit 37 discharges the document M0 to the second discharge tray 22. The control unit 37 guides the document M0 to the second discharge path 17 using the path switching mechanism 28. The control unit 37 discharges the document M0 to the second discharge tray 22 via the second discharge path 17. Once the control unit 37 has finished discharging the document M0, it terminates the transport process. If the document M0 remains in the supply tray 18, the control unit 37 repeats the transport process.

[0087] In step S20, the control unit 37 reads the document M0 using the reading unit 13. In the transport process, after determining whether or not the document M0 is bound, the control unit 37 transports the document M0 so that it reaches the reading unit 13. This ensures that the transport process proceeds smoothly.

[0088] In step S21, the control unit 37 discharges the document M0 to the first discharge tray 21. Once the control unit 37 has finished discharging the document M0, it terminates the transport process. If the document M0 remains in the supply tray 18, the control unit 37 repeats the transport process.

[0089] <Effects and Effects of the Examples> Next, the operation and effects of the above embodiment will be described. (1) When the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it rotates the transport roller 25 to transport the topmost document M0 in reverse. After transporting the topmost document M0 in reverse, the control unit 37 rotates the transport roller 25 and the separation roller 26 to transport the topmost document M0 without separating it from the other documents M0. When the topmost document M0 is bound with other documents M0, the transport roller 25 transports the topmost document M0, causing the topmost document M0 to precede the other documents M0. Therefore, when the transport roller 25 transports the topmost document M0 in reverse, the topmost document M0 returns to a state where it does not precede the other documents M0. According to the above configuration, the control unit 37 rotates the transport roller 25 and the separation roller 26 so that the topmost document M0 is transported without separating it from the other documents M0, and without the topmost document M0 being ahead of the other documents M0. As a result, the topmost document M0 is transported bound together with the other documents M0. Therefore, the risk of a decrease in processing efficiency is reduced.

[0090] (2) When the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is not a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it discharges the topmost document M0 to the first discharge tray 21. When the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it discharges the topmost document M0 to the second discharge tray 22. With the above configuration, the image reading device 11 can separate the multiple documents M0 loaded in the supply tray 18 into bound documents M0 and unbound documents M0. This improves usability.

[0091] (3) The control unit 37 determines whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0 based on the first edge line L1 and the second edge line L2. With the above configuration, the control unit 37 can accurately determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0.

[0092] (4) The control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0 if the inclination of the first edge line L1 exceeds the first threshold and the inclination of the second edge line L2 is less than or equal to the second threshold. With the above configuration, the control unit 37 can accurately determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0.

[0093] (5) When the lift sensor 31 detects that the topmost document M0 has lifted, the control unit 37 temporarily stops the transport roller 25. After temporarily stopping the transport roller 25, if the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it rotates the transport roller 25 to transport the topmost document M0 in the reverse direction. After temporarily stopping the transport roller 25, if the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is not a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it resumes rotating the transport roller 25 to transport the topmost document M0. If the leading edge of the topmost document M0 is bound with other documents M0, the topmost document M0 is more likely to lift up if it is ahead of the other documents M0. In other words, if the leading edge of the topmost document M0 is bound with other documents M0, the lift sensor 31 is more likely to detect the topmost document M0. If the leading edge of the topmost document M0 is bound with other documents M0, the topmost document M0 is more likely to be damaged because it moves ahead of the other documents M0. Therefore, with the above configuration, when the lift sensor 31 detects that the topmost document M0 is lifting, the control unit 37 temporarily stops the transport roller 25. While the transport roller 25 is temporarily stopped, the control unit 37 can determine whether the topmost document M0 is bound with other documents M0. This reduces the risk of the topmost document M0 being damaged by moving ahead of other documents M0.

[0094] (6) The control unit 37 detects a shadow S0 located between the first document M1 and the second document M2 from the captured data D1. When the control unit 37 detects a shadow S0, it determines that the first document M1 is a document M0 bound together with the second document M2. With the above configuration, the control unit 37 can accurately determine whether the first document M1 is a document M0 bound together with the second document M2.

[0095] (7) The control unit 37 acquires the imaging data D1 from the imaging unit 32. Based on the imaging data D1, the control unit 37 determines whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0. With the above configuration, the control unit 37 can accurately determine whether the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0 based on the imaging data D1.

[0096] (8) When the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is not a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it guides the topmost document M0 to be discharged through the first discharge path 16. When the control unit 37 determines that the topmost document M0 is a document M0 bound with other documents M0, it guides the topmost document M0 to be discharged through the second discharge path 17. If the topmost document M0 bound with other documents M0 is discharged through the first discharge path 16, there is a risk of the documents M0 jamming because the first discharge path 16 extends in a curved manner. In this respect, with the above configuration, the topmost document M0 bound with other documents M0 is discharged through the second discharge path 17, so the documents M0 are more likely to be discharged smoothly. This reduces the risk of a decrease in processing efficiency.

[0097] <Technical philosophy> The technical concepts and their effects, as understood from the above-described examples, are explained below. (A) The image reading device comprises a supply tray on which multiple documents are loaded, a transport roller for transporting the topmost document among the multiple documents loaded on the supply tray, a separation roller facing the transport roller and separating the other documents from the topmost document, a reading unit for reading the topmost document transported from the supply tray, and a control unit for determining whether the topmost document transported from the supply tray is a document bound with other documents. If the control unit determines that the topmost document is a document bound with other documents, it rotates the transport roller to transport the topmost document in the reverse direction, and after transporting the topmost document in the reverse direction, it rotates the transport roller and the separation roller to transport the topmost document without separating the other documents from it. If the topmost document is bound with other documents, the transport roller transports the topmost document so that the topmost document precedes the other documents. Therefore, the transport roller reverses the transport of the top document, returning it to a state where it does not precede other documents. According to the above configuration, the control unit rotates the transport roller and separation roller so that the top document is transported without separating it from other documents, while the top document does not precede other documents. As a result, the top document is transported bound together with other documents. Therefore, the risk of a decrease in processing efficiency is reduced.

[0098] (B) The image reading device includes a first discharge tray which is the destination for the topmost document transported by the transport roller, and a second discharge tray which is the destination for the topmost document transported by the transport roller. The control unit may discharge the topmost document to the first discharge tray if it determines that the topmost document is not a document bound with other documents, and discharge the topmost document to the second discharge tray if it determines that the topmost document is a document bound with other documents. With the above configuration, the image reading device can separate multiple documents loaded in the supply tray into bound documents and unbound documents. This improves usability.

[0099] (C) In the above image reading device, the control unit may acquire photographic data of the topmost document, detect a first edge line on the topmost document from the photographic data, detect a second edge line on the document following the topmost document from the photographic data, and determine whether the topmost document is a document bound with other documents based on the first and second edge lines. With the above configuration, the control unit can accurately determine whether the topmost document is a document bound with other documents.

[0100] (D) In ​​the image reading device described above, the control unit may detect the inclination of the first edge line from the captured data, detect the inclination of the second edge line from the captured data, and determine that the topmost document is a document bound with other documents if the inclination of the first edge line exceeds a first threshold and the inclination of the second edge line is less than or equal to a second threshold. With the above configuration, the control unit can accurately determine whether the topmost document is a document bound with other documents.

[0101] (E) The image reading device is equipped with a float sensor that detects the lifting of the topmost document transported from the supply tray. The control unit may, when the float sensor detects that the topmost document has lifted, temporarily stop the transport rollers. After temporarily stopping the transport rollers, if it determines that the topmost document is bound with other documents, it rotates the transport rollers to transport the topmost document in reverse. After transporting the topmost document in reverse, it rotates the transport rollers and the separation rollers to transport the topmost document without separating it from other documents. After temporarily stopping the transport rollers, if it determines that the topmost document is not bound with other documents, it may resume rotating the transport rollers to transport the topmost document. If the leading edge of the topmost document is bound with other documents, the topmost document is more likely to lift up if it is ahead of the other documents. That is, if the leading edge of the topmost document is bound with other documents, the topmost document is more likely to be detected by the float sensor. If the leading edge of the top document is bound with other documents, the top document is more likely to be damaged because it moves ahead of the other documents. Therefore, with the above configuration, when the lift sensor detects that the top document is lifting, the control unit temporarily stops the transport rollers. While the transport rollers are temporarily stopped, the control unit can determine whether the top document is bound with other documents. This reduces the risk of the top document being damaged by moving ahead of other documents.

[0102] (F) In the image reading device described above, the control unit may acquire photographic data of the first document, which is the topmost document, and the second document, which is the document following the first document among the plurality of documents, and detect a shadow located between the first document and the second document from the photographic data, and if the shadow is detected, determine that the first document is a document bound together with the second document. With the above configuration, the control unit can accurately determine whether the first document is a document bound together with the second document.

[0103] (G) The image reading device may include a shooting unit positioned opposite the supply tray, and the control unit may acquire shooting data of the topmost document from the shooting unit and determine, based on the shooting data, whether the topmost document is a document bound with other documents. With the above configuration, the control unit can accurately determine, based on the shooting data, whether the topmost document is a document bound with other documents.

[0104] (H) The image reading device includes a first discharge path that curves as it passes through the reading unit and through which the document passes, and a second discharge path that extends in a straight line and through which the document passes through the reading unit. The control unit may, when it determines that the topmost document is not bound with other documents, guide the device to discharge the topmost document through the first discharge path, and when it determines that the topmost document is bound with other documents, guide the device to discharge the topmost document through the second discharge path. When the topmost document bound with other documents is discharged through the first discharge path, there is a risk of the document jamming because the first discharge path curves as it extends. In this respect, with the above configuration, the topmost document bound with other documents is discharged through the second discharge path, so the documents are more likely to be discharged smoothly. This reduces the risk of a decrease in processing efficiency. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 11…Image reading device, 12…Conveying device, 13…Reading unit, 14…Housing, 15…Supply path, 16…First discharge path, 17…Second discharge path, 18…Supply tray, 19…Loading surface, 20…Reference line, 21…First discharge tray, 22…Second discharge tray, 23…Conveying unit, 24…Pickup roller, 25…Conveying roller, 26…Separation roller, 27…Rotating roller, 28…Path switching mechanism, 29...Flap, 30...Displacement mechanism, 31...Floating sensor, 32...Imaging unit, 33...Imaging section, 34...Support section, 35...Illumination unit, 36...Storage unit, 37...Control unit, D1...Imaging data, L1...First edge line, L2...Second edge line, M0...Original document, M1...First original document, M2...Second original document, P1...Point, P2...Point, P3...Point, P4...Point, R0...Detection area, S0...Shadow, Y1...Transport direction.

Claims

1. A supply tray on which multiple documents are stacked, A transport roller for transporting the topmost of the multiple documents loaded onto the supply tray, Opposite the transport roller is a separation roller that separates other documents from the uppermost document, A reading unit that reads the topmost document transported from the supply tray, The system includes a control unit that determines whether the topmost document transported from the supply tray is a document bound together with other documents, The control unit, If it is determined that the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents, the transport roller is rotated to transport the topmost document in the reverse direction. An image reading device characterized by rotating the transport roller and the separation roller so as to transport the topmost document without separating other documents from the topmost document after the topmost document has been transported in reverse.

2. The first discharge tray is the destination for the uppermost document transported by the transport roller, The system includes a second discharge tray which is the destination for the uppermost document transported by the transport roller, The control unit, If it is determined that the topmost document is not a document bound with other documents, the topmost document is ejected to the first output tray. The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when it is determined that the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents, the topmost document is discharged to the second discharge tray.

3. The control unit, The above-mentioned top-level document is captured, and the photographic data is obtained. From the aforementioned shooting data, the first edge line in the uppermost document is detected. From the aforementioned shooting data, the second edge line in the document following the topmost document is detected. The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that it determines whether the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents based on the first edge line and the second edge line.

4. The control unit, The inclination of the first edge line is detected from the aforementioned shooting data, The inclination of the second edge line is detected from the aforementioned shooting data, The image reading device according to claim 3, characterized in that it determines that the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents when the inclination of the first edge line exceeds a first threshold and the inclination of the second edge line is less than or equal to a second threshold.

5. The system includes a floating sensor that detects the lifting of the topmost document transported from the supply tray, The control unit, When the float sensor detects that the uppermost document is lifting, the transport roller is temporarily stopped. After temporarily stopping the transport roller, if it is determined that the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents, the transport roller is rotated to transport the topmost document in the reverse direction. After the topmost document is transported in reverse, the transport roller and the separation roller are rotated to transport the topmost document without separating it from other documents. The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, after temporarily stopping the transport roller, if it is determined that the topmost document is not a document bound with other documents, the rotation of the transport roller is restarted to transport the topmost document.

6. The control unit, The first document, which is the highest-level document, and the second document, which is the document following the first document among the multiple documents, are captured as photographic data. From the aforementioned photographic data, a shadow located between the first and second original documents is detected. The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the aforementioned shadow is detected, it is determined that the first document is a document bound together with the second document.

7. It includes an imaging unit positioned opposite the supply tray, The image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the control unit acquires imaging data of the topmost document from the imaging unit and determines whether or not the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents based on the imaging data.

8. A path through which the document that has passed through the reading unit passes, comprising a first discharge path that extends in a curved manner, The device includes a second discharge path that extends in a straight line, through which the document that has passed through the reading unit passes, The control unit, If it is determined that the topmost document is not a document bound with other documents, the system will guide the system to eject the topmost document through the first ejection path. The image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, when it is determined that the topmost document is a document bound together with other documents, it guides the topmost document to be ejected through the second ejection path.

Images