Image reading device, control method for image reading device, and program

Abstract

To execute optimum setting without lowering operability for a user.SOLUTION: It is detected that a manuscript is placed in a manuscript tray. In response to the detection of the manuscript placed in the manuscript tray, if a predetermined function is not operating, an object associated with setting of thickness of the manuscript is displayed. The manuscript is conveyed on the basis of information indicating the thickness of the manuscript set through the object. An image of the conveyed manuscript is read.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus, Control Method of Image Reading Apparatus , and a program.

Background Art

[0002] When the document to be read by an automatic document feeder is thick paper, jams are likely to occur because the load on the transport roller becomes high at the curved portion of the transport path. Also, when the document is thin paper, since the weight of the document itself is light, it takes time until the document discharged to the paper discharge unit falls off, and the rear end of the document and the front end of the subsequent document collide, causing jams and stacking failures.

[0003] Conventionally, there is an automatic document feeder that allows the user to select whether the document is thin paper, thick paper, or normal, or detects the paper thickness and changes the document transport speed according to the detected paper thickness (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] In addition, in order to automatically detect the paper thickness, it is necessary to add a sensor to the automatic document feeder, which increases the cost accordingly.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] When assuming a configuration that automatically displays a selection screen for selecting the thickness of a document every time a document is placed on an automatic document feeder, the following problems can be considered. That is, even in a situation where the user considers the setting of the document thickness unnecessary, a screen for setting the document thickness is displayed, which is troublesome. A situation where the setting of the document thickness is unnecessary is, for example, a situation where a function for correcting the gradation, density, and color tone of an image (hereinafter referred to as an automatic gradation correction function) is used by reading a printed test page from the automatic document feeder. When the automatic gradation correction function is used, it is unlikely that the document thickness will be executed at a special thickness, so it is troublesome that the document thickness selection screen is displayed. The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a mechanism for suppressing the display of a screen for selecting the thickness of a document according to the function being activated during startup, and improving the operability of the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An image reading device that detects that a document has been placed on a document tray This is the case, and an operation is performed to convey a document of the predetermined thickness at a conveyance speed higher than the conveyance speed for conveying a document thicker than the predetermined thickness or a document thinner than the predetermined thickness When the function is not operating, the thickness of the document that can be set Displays an object is possible, and at least when it is detected that the document is placed on the document tray, and based on the fact that the predetermined function is in operation, a display control is executed that does not display an object for setting the thickness of the document Control means comprises Characterized by the above.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, a mechanism for suppressing the display of a screen for selecting the thickness of a document according to the function being activated during startup is provided, and the operability of the user can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] <Embodiment 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an external appearance example of an image forming apparatus.

[0012] The image forming apparatus in the present embodiment includes an image reading unit 200 and an image forming unit 500.

[0013] The image reading unit 200 converts image information into an electrical signal by inputting the reflected light obtained by exposing and scanning the image on the document by the emission of the illumination lamp into a linear image sensor (CCD sensor). The image reading unit 200 further converts the electrical signal into luminance signals consisting of R, G, and B colors, and outputs the luminance signals as image data to the controller of the image forming apparatus.

[0014] The document is set on the document tray 30 of the automatic document feeder (hereinafter, ADF) 1000. When the user gives an execution instruction for the reading process from the operation unit of the image forming apparatus, the controller of the image forming apparatus sends a document reading instruction to the image reading unit 200. Upon receiving this instruction, the image reading unit 200 feeds the documents one by one from the document tray 30 of the ADF 1000 and performs the document reading operation. Also, the user can place the document on the document table glass described later and give an instruction for reading.

[0015] The image forming unit 500 is an image forming device that forms the image data received from the controller unit 400 described later on the paper.

[0016] The image forming method in the present embodiment is an electrophotographic method using a photoreceptor drum or a photoreceptor belt. Also, the image forming unit 500 includes a plurality of cassettes as a paper feeding unit 504 that can accommodate different paper sizes or different paper orientations. Also, the paper discharging unit 502 discharges the paper after printing. The finisher unit 505 performs post-processing such as stapling and punching on the paper based on the settings by the user.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration example of the ADF 1000 and the image reading unit 200.

[0018] The operation of the ADF1000 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The ADF1000 shown in FIG. 2 has a document tray 30 on which a document stack S composed of one or more document sheets is placed, a separation pad 21 that restricts the protrusion of the document stack S from the document tray 30 and its downstream advancement before the start of document conveyance, and a paper feed roller 1. Further, the ADF1000 has a document detection sensor 23 that detects that a document S is placed on the document tray 30, a distance measurement sensor 22 that measures the distance to the top surface of the document stack S, and a separation sensor 24 that detects that a document has passed through the separation roller 2. Note that the document detection sensor 23 may be provided under the document and may be configured to detect the placement of the sensor. The paper feed roller 1 drops onto the document surface of the document stack S placed on the document tray 30 and rotates. As a result, the topmost document of the document stack is fed. The document conveyed by the paper feed roller 1 is separated into individual sheets by the action of the separation roller 2 and the separation pad 21. This separation is realized by a retard separation technique. At this time, if the separation sensor 24 fails to detect a document even after a certain time (t1) has elapsed since the start of conveyance, the driving of the paper feed roller 1 and the like is stopped. The certain time (t1) until stopping is obtained by adding a sufficient time considering the arrival time from the start of conveyance to the separation sensor 24 predicted according to the conveyance speed and a delay.

[0019] The document separated by the separation roller 2 and the separation pad 21 is conveyed to the registration roller 4 by the conveyance roller 3 and abutted against the registration roller 4. As a result, the document is formed in a loop shape, and skewing during document conveyance is eliminated. On the downstream side of the registration roller 4, a paper feed path for conveying the document that has passed through the registration roller 4 in the direction of the platen glass 201 is arranged.

[0020] The document sent to the paper feed path is sent onto the platen by the large roller 7 and the conveyance roller 5. Here, the large roller 7 contacts the platen glass 201. The document conveyed by the large roller 7 passes through the conveyance roller 6, moves between the roller 16 and the moving glass, and is discharged to the document discharge tray 31 via the discharge flapper and the discharge roller 8.

[0021] The ADF1000 in FIG. 2 is of a type that reads the backside image of the document by inverting the document. The ADF1000 moves the document to the inversion path 19 by reversing the paper discharge roller 8 with the document caught by the paper discharge roller 8 and switching the paper discharge flapper. The ADF1000 abuts the moved document against the registration roller 4 from the inversion path 19, and by forming the document in a loop again, skewing during document conveyance is eliminated. Thereafter, the ADF1000 can read the backside of the document with the document flow glass 201 by moving the document to the document flow glass 201 again by means of the conveyance roller 5 and the large roller 7.

[0022] Also, on the document tray 30, a guide regulating plate 15 that is slidable in the sub-scanning direction of the stacked document bundle is provided, and a document width detection sensor (not shown) that detects the document width in conjunction with this guide regulating plate is provided. By combining the document detection sensor 23 and the pre-registration sensor 11, the document size of the document bundle stacked on the document tray 30 can be determined. Also, it is possible to detect the document length from the conveyance distance from the front-end detection to the rear-end detection of the document during conveyance by a document length detection sensor (not shown) provided in the conveyance path. Also, the document size can be determined from the combination of the detected document length and the above-described document width detection sensor.

[0023] (Configuration example of the image reading unit 200) The image reading unit 200 optically reads the image information recorded on the document by the optical scanner unit 209 scanning the document on the document table glass 202 in the sub-scanning direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 2. Further, the image reading unit 200 controls the ADF 1000 to convey the documents on the document tray 30 one by one to the reading position. Furthermore, the image reading unit 200 moves the optical scanner unit 209 to the reading center position of the large roller 7 of the ADF 1000 and reads the document at the reading position of the large roller 7. The document on the ADF 1000 or the document on the document table glass 202 is read by the following optical system. This optical system includes a flow-through glass 201, a document table glass 202, an optical scanner unit 209 having a lamp 203 and a mirror 204, mirrors 205 and 206, a lens 207, and a CCD sensor unit 210. The read image information is photoelectrically converted and input as image data to a controller unit (not shown in FIG. 2). Also, the white plate 219 is a white plate for creating reference data of the white level by shading.

[0024] In this embodiment, the CCD sensor unit 210 is composed of a color image reading (RGB) CCD (3-line sensor unit) 212 and a black-and-white image reading CCD (1-line sensor unit) 211.

[0025] Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the ADF 1000 reverses the document so that the image reading unit 200 reads the back surface image of the document. The image reading unit 200 may have both a CCD for reading the front surface of the document and a CCD for reading the back surface of the document, and may be of a type that reads both sides of the document in one conveyance of the document.

[0026] (ADF1000) FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus.

[0027] The ADF1000ク is equipped with a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as CPU) 300, a read-only memory (hereinafter referred to as ROM) 301, a random access memory (hereinafter referred to as RAM) 302, an output port, and an input port. The control program and fixed parameters are stored in the ROM 301. The input data and working data are stored in the RAM 302.

[0028] Connected to the output port are a motor 303 for driving various transport rollers, a solenoid 306, and a clutch 307, and various sensors 304 are respectively connected to the input port.

[0029] The CPU 300 controls paper transport according to the control program stored in the ROM 301 connected via the bus line. The CPU 300 performs serial communication with the central processing unit (CPU) 321 of the image reading unit 200 via the control communication line 351, and exchanges control data with the image reading unit 200. Also, the reference image start signal at the leading edge of the document image data is notified to the image reading unit 200 through the control communication line 351.

[0030] Also, the CPU 300 notifies the image reading unit 200 of the values of various sensors 304 according to the control data from the CPU 321 of the image reading unit 200.

[0031] (Image reading unit 200) In the image reading unit 200, the CPU 321 controls all of the image reading unit 200. Connected to the CPU 321 are a ROM 322 for storing programs and a RAM 323 for providing a work area. Note that the RAM 323 indicates a work area including an area for performing non-volatile storage.

[0032] The optical system motor drive unit 326 is a driver circuit for driving the optical system drive motor. A lamp 203 and a CCD sensor unit 210 (black-and-white image reading CCD 211 for surface images / color image reading CCD 212 for surface images) are connected to the image reading unit 200. The CPU 321 controls the optical system motor drive unit 326 and controls the CCD sensor unit 210 via the image processing unit 325 to perform image reading processing.

[0033] To achieve paper conveyance, the CPU 321 sends commands regarding paper conveyance control to the CPU 300 for paper conveyance control of the ADF 1000 via the control communication line 351 to give instructions. The instructed CPU 300 monitors various sensors 304 installed on the conveyance path and drives the conveyance motor 303, solenoid 306, and clutch 307, which are the loads, to achieve paper conveyance. In this way, the CPU 321 controls paper conveyance by the ADF 1000 and image reading control by the image reading unit 200. The intersheet correction processing unit 324 performs intersheet correction.

[0034] The image signal formed on the CCD sensor unit 210 (either the color image reading (RGB) CCD 212 or the black-and-white image reading CCD 211) by the lens 207 is converted into digital image data. The converted image data is further subjected to various image processes such as shading in the image processing unit 325 to detect and correct streak images and the like on the image data, and is written into the image memory unit 329.

[0035] The data written to the image memory unit 329 is sequentially transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the image data information communication line 353 of the controller interface including the image transfer clock signal line. Further, the reference image start signal at the leading edge of the document image data has its timing adjusted by the CPU 321 and is notified to the controller unit 400 through the control communication line 352 of the controller interface. For the image start signal notified via the communication line from the ADF 1000 as well, the timing is similarly adjusted by the CPU 321 of the image reading unit 200 and is notified to the controller unit 400 through the control communication line 352 of the controller interface.

[0036] The CPU 321 controls the image processing unit 325 connected on the control bus line. Further, the CPU 321 controls the CCD sensor unit 210 by transmitting a control signal from the control communication line 354 to the CCD sensor unit 210 via the image processing unit 325. In the process of scanning the document image by the CCD sensor unit 210, it is read by the color image reading CCD 212 or the monochrome image reading CCD 211. Then, the analog image signal for each line read is output from the image data communication line 214 or 215 including the image transfer clock signal line to the CCD control unit 213.

[0037] The analog signal is converted into digital image data by the CCD control unit 213 and is transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the image data information communication line 353 via the image memory unit 329 from the image data information communication line 355 including the image transfer clock signal line.

[0038] The CPU 321 performs serial communication with the central processing unit (CPU) 401 of the controller unit 400 via the control communication line 354, and exchanges control data with the controller unit 400. The CPU 321 detects abnormal shape of the document being conveyed in response to the control data from the central processing unit (CPU) 401 of the controller unit 400. In detecting abnormal shape, the CPU 321 calculates the difference between the distance between the top surface of the document S measured before the start of conveyance for each document and the distance between the top surface of the document S measured a certain time (t2) after the start of conveyance, and determines that the document is abnormal in shape if there is a difference (d1) of a certain amount or more. Then, the CPU 321 notifies the central processing unit (CPU) 401 of the controller unit 400 of the determination result.

[0039] (Controller unit 400) The image processing controller unit 400 is a device that controls the entire image forming apparatus including the ADF 1000, the image reading unit 200, and the image forming unit 500. The controller unit 400 has a CPU 401, an image processing circuit 402, a scanner IF 403, an image memory 404, an operation unit 405, a RAM 406 that provides a work area, a ROM 407 that stores programs, a printer IF 408, and a HDD 409. The RAM 406 indicates a work area that also includes an area for performing non-volatile storage.

[0040] Moreover, the program may be loaded from the HDD 409 into the RAM 406 and executed by the CPU 401 .

[0041] The image data transmitted to the controller unit 400 via the image data information communication line 353 is stored in the image memory 404 via the scanner IF 403 .

[0042] The image processing circuit 402 converts the image on the image memory 404, and then returns it to the image memory 404 again. The image conversion processing performed by the image processing circuit 402 includes a rotation process of rotating an image in units of 32 pixels × 32 pixels at a specified angle, and a resolution conversion process of converting the resolution of the image. Furthermore, the image conversion processing performed by the image processing circuit 402 includes a magnification process of magnifying or reducing the image, a matrix operation on an image with multi-value input, and a color space conversion process of converting a YUV image to a Lab image by means of a LUT. This color space conversion has a 3×8 matrix operation and a 1D LUT, and can perform underlay skipping and anti-offset.

[0043] Note that the controller unit 400 has a network I / F (not shown) and performs transmission and reception of image data and other data with an external PC.

[0044] (Image forming unit 500) The image forming unit 500 conveys a recording paper (sheet), prints the image data thereon as a visible image, and discharges it outside the apparatus. The image forming unit 500 includes a control unit 501 that controls the image forming unit 500, a paper feeding unit 504 having a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes, and a marking unit 503 having a function of transferring and fixing the image data onto the recording paper. Furthermore, the image forming unit 500 includes a paper discharging unit 502 having a function of outputting the printed recording paper outside the apparatus, and a finisher unit (finisher unit) 505 that performs punching processing and sorting processing.

[0045] When the preparation for image formation is completed in the marking unit 503, the control unit 501 transmits a leading reference image leading signal to the controller unit 400 through the control communication line 356 of the controller interface.

[0046] Then, the marking unit 503 transfers and fixes the image data sent through the image communication line 357 of the controller interface onto the recording paper.

[0047] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, the operation unit 405 shown in FIG. 3 will be described. The LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) touch panel 600 is used for main mode setting and status display. The numeric keypad 601 accepts input of numerical values from 0 to 9. The ID key 602 is used when inputting the department number and password mode when the device is department-managed.

[0048] The reset key 603 is a key for resetting the set mode. The guide key 604 is a key for displaying an explanation screen for each mode. The interrupt key 606 is a key for performing interrupt copying.

[0049] The start key 607 is a key for accepting execution instructions for copying and scanning. The stop key 608 is a key for canceling a job (copy job or scan job) in progress.

[0050] The user mode key 605 is a key for entering the user mode screen. In the user mode screen, the image forming apparatus accepts various settings related to the apparatus.

[0051] The power saving key 609 is a key for shifting the image forming apparatus to the power saving state. When the image forming apparatus is in the power saving state, it returns from the power saving state by being selected again.

[0052] The counter confirmation key 610 causes a count screen to be displayed on the LCD that shows the total number of copies used up to that point.

[0053] The LED 611 indicates that an image is being accumulated in the image memory during job execution. The error LED 612 indicates that the device is in an error state such as a jam or a door being open. The power LED 613 indicates that the main switch of the device is ON.

[0054] The copy screen 7000 in Fig. 5(a) is the screen displayed on the LCD touch panel 600. As basic settings, buttons for setting color selection 751, magnification 752, and paper selection 753 are arranged as shown in 700 of Fig. 5, and the setting status of these is displayed at 750. Settings other than the basic settings can be selected by selecting the other function button 757. Fig. 5(c) is the other function screen 760, where settings can be made for functions other than color selection 751, magnification 752, and paper selection 753. For functions that the user frequently uses among these functions, shortcut buttons can be created on the copy screen. Here, duplex 754 for setting duplex printing and anti-backside copying 755 for setting prevention of backside copying of the original are arranged as shortcut buttons. Furthermore, finish 756 for setting the output mode and post-processing during printing is arranged as a shortcut button.

[0055] The paper thickness setting screen 770 in Fig. 5(b) is an example of a screen for setting the paper thickness (thickness of the paper) of the original. The paper thickness setting screen 770 in Fig. 5(b) is displayed in a pop-up format, for example, in accordance with the original detection sensor 23 detecting the original. Also, the user can manually display the paper thickness setting screen 770 by selecting the paper thickness setting provided in the other function button 757. On the paper thickness setting screen 770, thick paper 771, normal 772, and thin paper 773 can be selected. Here, an example of displaying thick paper 771, normal 772, and thin paper 773 as buttons has been described, but each button can be regarded as one record and displayed in a list. Note that the buttons and records are examples of objects. After the user selects the paper thickness, the user selects the OK key 774 to set the paper thickness. The set paper thickness is stored in the RAM 406.

[0056] The other function screen 760 in Fig. 5(c) is a screen for setting the application functions of the copy function. The other function screen 760 is displayed when the other function button 757 on the copy screen 7000 is selected. The other function screen 760 includes a density 761 for setting the density to be printed, in addition to double-sided 754, anti-back printing 755, and finishing 756. The other function screen 760 also includes a number of copies printing 762 for setting the printing specification of the numbering on the printed original, and a paper thickness setting 763 for setting the paper thickness of the original. Each is displayed as a button.

[0057] Fig. 5(d) shows an example of a screen for setting the paper thickness on the application paper thickness setting screen 780. The application paper thickness setting screen 780 is displayed when the paper thickness setting 763 is selected on the other function screen 760. On the application paper thickness setting screen 780, thick paper 781, normal 782, and thin paper 783 can be selected. After selecting the paper thickness, the paper thickness is set by selecting the OK key 785. The user can cancel the paper thickness setting by selecting the cancel key 784. Here, an example of displaying thick paper 781, normal 782, and thin paper 783 as buttons has been described, but each button may be regarded as one record and displayed in a list. Note that the buttons and records are examples of objects. After the user selects the paper thickness, the paper thickness is set by selecting the OK key 785. The set paper thickness is stored in the RAM 406.

[0058] Fig. 6(a) shows an example of a paper thickness selection method setting screen. This screen can be displayed by an operation from the user mode. The user mode is displayed by selecting the user mode key 605 on the operation unit 405. Although not shown here, other functions for making various settings in the image forming apparatus are also provided in the user mode.

[0059] The paper thickness selection method setting screen 790 includes a fixed setting 791, which is a button for setting the paper thickness selection method, and a per-time setting 792. The per-time setting 792 is a button that enables the function of automatically displaying the paper thickness setting screen 770 according to detecting that the original document has been placed on the original document tray 30. The fixed setting 791 is a button that disables the function of automatically displaying the paper thickness setting screen 770 according to detecting that the original document has been placed on the original document tray 30. The user can set the selected paper thickness selection method by selecting either the fixed setting 791 or the per-time setting 792. Here, when the fixed setting 791 is selected, thick paper 794, normal 795, and thin paper 796 for performing paper thickness setting are displayed in the fixed paper thickness setting area 793. The thick paper 794, the normal 795, and the thin paper 796 are each selectable. When the OK key 798 is selected in a state where any one of the thick paper 794, the normal 795, and the thin paper 796 is selected, it is set that the paper thickness selection method is the fixed setting and the selected paper thickness, and it is saved in the RAM 406.

[0060] A specific example will be described with reference to FIG. 6(b). FIG. 6(b) shows an example of a screen when the fixed setting is selected in the paper thickness selection method setting and thick paper is selected in the paper thickness fixed setting. It represents a state where the fixed setting 791 is selected in the paper thickness setting and the thick paper 794 is selected. By selecting the OK key 798 in this state, "fixed setting" is set in the paper thickness selection setting 701 of FIG. 7, and thick paper is set in the paper thickness fixed setting 702 of FIG. 7 to be described later. When the "fixed setting" is selected, the paper thickness setting screen 770 will no longer be displayed, and it is assumed that the paper thickness is always automatically set to the thickness set in FIG. 6(a) or FIG. 6(b).

[0061] When the cancel key 797 is selected, the setting of the paper thickness selection method and the paper thickness is canceled.

[0062] FIG. 6(c) shows an example of a screen when the per-time setting 792 is selected as the paper thickness selection method setting. When the per-time setting 792 is selected in the paper thickness setting, no setting button is displayed in the paper thickness fixed setting area 799. By selecting the OK key 798 in this state, "per-time setting" is set in the paper thickness selection setting 701 of FIG. 7.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of set values stored in the RAM 406. The device settings are an area for storing set values commonly used throughout the device, and therein are a paper thickness selection setting 701, a paper thickness fixed setting 702, and a paper thickness specified setting 703. There may be other device settings. Here, the paper thickness specified setting 703 will be described. The paper thickness fixed setting 702 stores the set value specified by the user as a fixed setting when the paper thickness selection setting 701 is "fixed setting". On the other hand, the paper thickness specified setting 703 is the set value referred to when the original is being conveyed. That is, when the paper thickness selection method 701 is "set each time", the set value specified by the user each time is stored in the paper thickness specified setting 703. When the paper thickness selection method 701 is "fixed setting", the same set value as the paper thickness fixed setting 702 is stored. However, when a specific function such as the accessibility function described later is in operation, even if the paper thickness selection method 701 is "fixed setting", a set value different from the paper thickness fixed setting 702 is stored in the paper thickness specified setting 703. That is, the set value stored in the paper thickness specified setting 703 varies depending on the function in operation and the settings made by the user. Note that if no original is placed on the ADF 1000 or the like, it is assumed that no set value for specifying the paper thickness is stored in the paper thickness specified setting 703. If an original is placed on the ADF 1000 or the like, it is assumed that some set value for specifying the paper thickness is stored in the paper thickness specified setting 703. The copy settings 710 are an area for storing set values used in the copy function. Examples include a paper thickness setting 711, page printing 712, page aggregation 713, binding 714, number of copies 715, etc. Note that these setting items are just examples, and other copy settings may be stored. Also, there may be an area for storing set values regarding data transmission functions and other functions other than the copy function.

[0064] The image forming apparatus in this embodiment controls the execution of a print job based on these settings.

[0065] (Flowchart for setting the paper thickness selection method from the user mode) First, with reference to FIG. 8, a flowchart for setting the paper thickness selection method from the user mode will be described.

[0066] This flowchart starts when the user mode key 605 of the operation unit 405 is selected, the user mode is displayed, and the paper thickness selection method setting is selected from among them. Note that this flowchart is executed by the CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executing a control program read from the ROM 407 and expanded in the RAM 406.

[0067] In S801, the CPU 401 causes the LCD touch panel 600 to display the paper thickness selection method setting screen 790 shown in FIG. 6(a). Then, the LCD touch panel 600 accepts the selection of the fixed setting 791, the per-time setting 792, and the selection of the thick paper 794, normal 795, and thin paper 796 displayed in the fixed paper thickness setting area 793 on the paper thickness selection method setting screen 790. The CPU 401 stores the accepted settings in the RAM 406.

[0068] Next, in S802, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the cancel key 797 has been accepted. If the selection of the cancel key 797 has been accepted, the CPU 401 does not reflect the selection state of the paper thickness selection method setting on the device settings and ends this flow. On the other hand, if the selection of the cancel key 797 has not been accepted, the CPU 401 proceeds to S803.

[0069] In S803, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the OK key 798 has been accepted. If the CPU 401 has accepted the selection of the OK key, it proceeds to S804, and if it has not, it proceeds to S801.

[0070] In S804, the CPU 401 determines whether the setting selected as the paper thickness selection method is the fixed setting 791 or the per-time setting 792. If the fixed setting 791 is selected by the CPU 401, it proceeds to S805, and if the per-time setting 792 is selected, it proceeds to S806.

[0071] In S805, the CPU 401 saves the fixed setting to the paper thickness selection setting 701 of the device setting 700. Then, the CPU 401 saves the selected paper thickness among the thick paper 794, normal 795, and thin paper 796 displayed in the fixed paper thickness setting area 793 to the paper thickness fixed setting 702, and ends this flowchart.

[0072] In S806, the CPU 401 saves the setting to the paper thickness selection setting 701 of the device setting 700 every time, and ends this flowchart.

[0073] Next, when a document is placed on the ADF 1000 in this embodiment, the details of the processing according to the paper thickness selection method of the device setting will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 9.

[0074] This flowchart starts from the state where the copy screen 7000 is displayed on the LCD touch panel 600. Note that this series of processes is performed by the CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executing the control program read from the ROM 407 and expanded in the RAM 406.

[0075] In S901, the CPU 401 determines whether there is a change in the detection state of the document detection sensor 23 of the ADF 1000. When it is detected that the document has changed from "none" to "present", the CPU 401 proceeds to S902 for processing.

[0076] In S902, the CPU 401 determines whether the automatic gradation correction function is operating. If the automatic gradation correction function is operating, the CPU 401 proceeds to S903 and sets the information of the paper thickness designation setting 703 in the device setting 700 of the RAM 406 to "normal". When the CPU 401 determines in S902 that it is not in the automatic gradation correction mode, the CPU 401 proceeds to the process in S904. In S904, the CPU 401 determines whether the setting stored in the paper thickness selection setting 701 stored in the RAM 406 is "set each time" or "fixed setting". If "fixed setting" is stored, the CPU 401 proceeds to the process in S905. In S905, the CPU 401 reads out the information of the paper thickness fixed setting 702 stored in the RAM 406 and stores it in the paper thickness designation setting 703. In the case of this embodiment, since "thick paper" is set in the paper thickness fixed setting 702, the information of the paper thickness designation setting 703 is set to "thick paper".

[0077] If the "set each time" designation is stored in the paper thickness selection setting 701 in S904, the CPU 401 proceeds to the process in S906. In S906, the CPU 401 causes the LCD touch panel 600 to display the paper thickness setting screen 770 in Fig. 5(b) over the current screen and accepts the selection of the paper thickness setting.

[0078] In S907, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the OK key 774 has been accepted. If the selection of the OK key 774 has been accepted, the CPU 401 proceeds to the process in S908.

[0079] In S908, the CPU 401 stores the information (thick paper / ordinary / thin paper) of the paper thickness selected at that time in the paper thickness designation setting 703 in the device setting 700 of the RAM 406.

[0080] Next, the reading process in the automatic gradation correction function will be described. It starts when the user mode key 605 of the operation unit 405 is selected, the user mode is displayed, and the automatic gradation correction function is selected from among them.

[0081] This process is performed by the CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executing the control program read from the ROM 407 and expanded in the RAM 406.

[0082] When a test page is printed and output according to the test page output screen (not shown) for automatic gradation correction, the CPU 401 displays on the LCD touch panel 600 a screen 1400 (FIG. 14) for starting to read the test page. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a reading screen displayed on the LCD touch panel 600. The read start key 1401 is a key for starting to read the test page. When the CPU 401 does not detect that there is an original document based on the detection state of the original document detection sensor 23 of the ADF 1000, it is shaded so that it cannot be selected. The cancel key 1402 is selected when canceling the automatic gradation correction. The processing when the original document detection sensor 23 of the ADF 1000 detects that there is an original document and the read start key 1401 is selected will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 11. It is assumed that the processing of FIG. 11 is started when a user operation is received while the screen 1400 is being displayed.

[0083] In S1501, the CPU 401 determines whether there has been a key input. If there has been a key input, in S1502, the CPU 401 determines the type of the selected key. If the cancel key 1402 is selected, in S1503, the CPU 401 performs a process of canceling the automatic gradation correction process. When the cancellation process ends, in S1504, the CPU 401 returns to the menu screen (not shown) of the user mode screen.

[0084] If it is determined in S1502 that the read start key 1401 has been selected, in S1505, the CPU 401 reads out the paper thickness information stored in the paper thickness designation setting 703 stored in the device setting 700 of the RAM 406. Since "normal" is specified in the paper thickness designation setting 703 this time, the CPU 401 notifies the CPU 300 of the automatic document feeder 100 to make the original document conveyance speed constant and controls to start feeding the original document. In S1506, the CPU 321 causes the image reading unit 200 to read image data. The read image data is transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the image data information communication line 353, and the gradation, density, and color tone of the image are adjusted. When the adjustment is completed, in S1504, the CPU 401 returns the screen to the menu screen (not shown) of the user mode screen.

[0085] Next, the reading process in the copy function will be described with reference to FIG. 12. In S1601, the CPU 401 causes the LCD touch panel 600 to display the copy screen 7000 shown in FIG. 5, and accepts copy settings from the user. When the copy settings are changed on the copy screen 7000 or other function screen 760, the CPU 401 saves the changed settings in the corresponding setting items of the copy settings 710 in the RAM 406. When displaying other function screens 760, the CPU 401 performs a process of switching the displayed function according to the setting of the paper thickness selection setting 701 in the device settings 700. Details of this process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13 later.

[0086] Next, in S1602, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the selection of the start key 607 on the operation unit 405 has been accepted. If the selection has been accepted, the process proceeds to S1603.

[0087] Next, in S1603, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a document is placed on the document tray 30 of the ADF 1000 based on the signal from the document detection sensor 23. If it is determined that no document is placed, the CPU 401 proceeds to S1604.

[0088] In S1604, the CPU 401 instructs the image reading unit 200 to scan the document placed on the document table glass 202. In response to this instruction, the image reading unit 200 scans the document placed on the document table glass 202. Note that the scanning at this time does not transport the document and is not affected by the transport speed, so the paper thickness setting 711 stored in the RAM 406 is not used.

[0089] Returning to S1603, the case where it is determined that a document is placed on the document tray 30 will be described. In S1605, the CPU 401 controls the ADF 1000 to execute scanning based on the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy settings 710 stored in the RAM 406. Details of the process in S1605 will be described later with reference to FIG. 15.

[0090] When the scanning is completed, the image data generated based on the scanned image of the document is sent to the image forming unit 500 via the printer IF 408, and printing is executed. When the printing is completed, the CPU 401 initializes the copy settings 710 including the paper thickness setting 711 stored in the RAM 406, and ends this processing flow. Here, copying has been described as an example of the function for performing scanning, but it may be applied to other functions such as email transmission and G3 facsimile transmission. In the case of email transmission, when the scanning is completed, the image data generated based on the scanned image of the document is sent to the designated destination via a network IF (not shown).

[0091] In step S1601 of Embodiment 1, a detailed flowchart of the activation / invalidation process regarding the paper thickness setting when another function screen 760 is selected will be described with reference to FIG. 13. This flowchart starts when an instruction to display another function screen 760 is given. Note that this series of processes is performed by the CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executing a control program read from the ROM 407 and expanded in the RAM 406.

[0092] In S1001, the CPU 401 reads the set value stored in the paper thickness selection setting 701 of the device settings 700. If the setting is a fixed setting, the process proceeds to S1002. If the setting is a per-time setting, the process proceeds to S1004.

[0093] In S1002, the CPU 401 determines that the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy settings 710 is valid, and displays another function screen 760 on the LCD touch panel 600 where the paper thickness setting 763 shown in FIG. 5(c) is arranged.

[0094] Then, in S1003, the CPU 401 reads the set value stored in the paper thickness fixed setting 702 of the device settings 700, and stores the read value in the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy settings 710, and ends this flowchart.

[0095] In S1004, the CPU 401 determines that the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710 is invalid, displays on the LCD touch panel 600 another function screen 765 where the paper thickness setting 763 described later with reference to FIG. 14 is not arranged, and ends this flowchart.

[0096] FIG. 14 shows an example of another function screen 765 when the setting is saved every time in the paper thickness selection setting 701. The other function screen 765 is a screen displayed by selecting another function 758 on the copy screen 7000 in the same manner as in FIG. 5(c). When the setting is saved every time in the paper thickness selection setting 701, since it is a case where the paper thickness setting is not performed as a setting for each copy job, the paper thickness setting 763 for setting the paper thickness of the original is not arranged. On the other hand, since other functions may be used, buttons for other functions are arranged.

[0097] Next, the details of the ADF scan process of S1605 (FIG. 12) in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 15. The process of FIG. 15 is performed by the CPU 321 of the image reading unit 200 executing the control program read from the ROM 322 and expanded in the RAM 323 according to the scan execution instruction from the CPU 401.

[0098] Receiving an instruction to start reading the original from the CPU 401 of the controller unit 400, in S1201, the CPU 321 determines the value of the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710. If the determined paper thickness is normal (a predetermined thickness), the process proceeds to S1202, and the CPU 321 of the automatic document feeder 100 is notified to make the original conveyance speed constant. The CPU 300 that has received the notification to make the original conveyance speed constant controls the original feeding of the motors that drive the conveyance rollers 3, registration rollers 4, conveyance rollers 5, conveyance rollers 6, large rollers 7, and paper discharge rollers 8 to the normal conveyance speed. If the paper thickness determined in S1201 is thick paper (a thickness greater than the predetermined thickness) or thin paper (a thickness less than the predetermined thickness), the CPU 321 proceeds to S1203 and notifies the CPU 300 of the automatic document feeder 100 to make the original conveyance speed low.

[0099] Upon receiving a notice to lower the original conveyance speed, the CPU 300 reduces the rotational speeds of the motors that drive each of the conveyance roller 3, resist roller 4, conveyance roller 5, conveyance roller 6, large roller 7, and paper discharge roller 8, and controls them to achieve a speed slower than the normal conveyance speed. For example, the CPU 300 controls to achieve a conveyance speed that is half of the normal conveyance speed. Thereby, when the original is a thick paper, torque shortage can be eliminated at the curved portion of the conveyance path, and it is possible to suppress the thick paper original from jamming at the curved portion of the conveyance path. Also, when the original is a thin paper, the next original is discharged after the discharged thin paper original has completely fallen. By doing so, the stackability at the paper discharge section is improved, and it is possible to suppress the thin paper original from jamming near the paper discharge section.

[0100] When the original conveyance speed is set, the process proceeds to S1204, and the CPU 321 starts feeding the original. In S1205, the CPU 321 causes the image reading unit 200 to read image data, and the process proceeds to S1206. The read image data is transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the image data information communication line 353 and stored in the image memory 404 through the scanner IF 403.

[0101] In S1206, the CPU 401 executes image processing on the image data stored in the image memory 404. In S1207, the CPU 321 determines whether there is an original on the original tray 30. If there is an original, the process proceeds to S1204. If there is no original, the processing of this flowchart ends.

[0102] According to Embodiment 1, even if the setting is such that a screen for setting the thickness of the original is displayed each time the original is placed on the original tray 30 of the ADF 1000, the setting screen will not be displayed while the function of operating at a predetermined conveyance speed is being executed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent increasing the number of user operation steps.

[0103] Note that the information indicating the thickness of the original document set by the user via the screens of FIGS. 5(b) and 5(d) in this embodiment is deleted by the selection of the reset key 603. Also, that information is deleted when the printing or transmission of the scanned image is completed and cannot be used in the next job. That is, this information is deleted according to the completion of the job. This is to prevent the thickness of the original document set by the user via the screen of FIG. 5(b) or 5(d) from being inadvertently carried over and used for another original document in the next job. On the other hand, the information indicating the thickness of the original document set via the screen of FIG. 6(a) is not deleted even after the printing or transmission of the scanned image is completed.

[0104] Also, in Embodiment 1, an example was described in which when the fixed setting 791 is selected, the user is allowed to select any thickness from the thick paper 794, normal 795, and thin paper 796. However, when the fixed setting 791 is selected, the default value at the time of factory shipment may be saved as the paper thickness fixed setting 702 and used. For example, as the default value, it is sufficient if the frequently used normal 795 is stored.

[0105] <Embodiment 2> Embodiment 2 will describe cases where it is assumed that it is difficult for the user to determine the paper type. As examples of functions for users with poor eyesight or users who cannot use their fingertips, a screen color inversion function, a voice guidance function, and a voice operation function are provided (hereinafter referred to as accessibility functions). Using the flowchart of FIG. 16, a method for selecting the paper thickness for device settings considering the accessibility functions will be described.

[0106] In S1301, the CPU 401 determines whether there is a change in the detection state of the original document detection sensor 23 of the ADF 1000. If it is detected that the original document has changed from "none" to "present", the CPU 401 proceeds to S1302 for processing. In S1302, the CPU 401 determines whether the automatic gradation correction function is operating. If the automatic gradation correction function is operating, the CPU 401 proceeds to S1303 and sets the information of the paper thickness designation setting 703 in the device settings 700 of the RAM 406 to "normal".

[0107] If it is determined in S1302 that it is not in the automatic gradation correction mode, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1304. In S1304, the CPU 401 determines whether the setting stored in the paper thickness selection setting 701 stored in the RAM 406 is either "set each time" or "fixed setting". If "fixed setting" is stored, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1305. In S1305, the CPU 401 reads out the information of the paper thickness fixed setting 702 stored in the RAM 406 and stores it in the paper thickness designation setting 703. In the case of this embodiment, since "thick paper" is set in the paper thickness fixed setting 702, the information of the paper thickness designation setting 703 is set to "thick paper".

[0108] If a per-time designation is stored in the paper thickness selection setting 701 in S1304, the CPU 401 proceeds to S1306. In S1306, the CPU 401 determines whether the accessibility function is operating. If it is determined that the accessibility function is operating, the CPU 401 proceeds to S1307 and sets the information of the paper thickness designation setting 703 in the device settings 700 of the RAM 406 to "thin paper". This is for the purpose of reducing the reading speed of the original document. Therefore, even if the paper thickness designation setting 703 is "thick paper", it is acceptable. Although the reading speed of the original document will slow down according to the paper pressure designation setting 703, by reducing the reading speed, it becomes possible to handle any paper thickness of thin paper, normal paper, and thick paper. If it is determined in S1306 that the accessibility function is not operating, the CPU 401 proceeds to S1308. Then, in accordance with the fact that the paper thickness selection method is "set each time", the paper thickness setting screen 770 of Fig. 5(b) is overlaid and displayed on the current screen of the LCD touch panel 600, and the selection of the paper thickness setting is accepted.

[0109] Next, at S1309, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the selection of the OK key 774 has been received. If the selection of the OK key 774 has been received, the CPU 401 proceeds to S1310 for processing.

[0110] At S1310, the CPU 401 stores the paper thickness information (thick paper / normal / thin paper) selected at that time in the paper thickness designation setting 703 in the device setting 700 of the RAM 406. In this embodiment, the case where the CPU 401 sets the information of the paper thickness designation setting 703 in the device setting 700 of the RAM 406 to "thin paper" when the accessibility function is operating has been described. However, it is not limited to this, and for example, it may be set to "normal".

[0111] <Other Embodiments> The present invention supplies a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiment to a system or device via a network or a storage medium. Then, it can also be realized by a process in which one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. Further, it can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0112] As described above, an example of the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail, but the present invention is not limited to such a specific embodiment.

[0113] According to each of the above-described embodiments, according to the mode in which the user is operating, the thickness of the document is automatically set, and the display of the screen for selecting the thickness of the document is suppressed, so that the optimal setting can be executed without degrading the operability of the user.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0114] 401 CPU 405 Operation Unit 406 RAM

Claims

1. An image reading device characterized in that, when it is detected that a document has been placed on a document tray, and when a specified function is not in operation for transporting a document thicker than a specified thickness or a document of a specified thickness at a transport speed faster than the transport speed for transporting a document thinner than the specified thickness, an object that allows the thickness of the document to be set can be displayed, and that, at least, when it is detected that the document has been placed on the document tray and the specified function is in operation, the image reading device is characterized in that it is capable of displaying an object that allows the thickness of the document to be set.

2. The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means executes control not to display the object capable of setting the thickness of the document based on the specified function being in operation, even if the display control means is set to display the object capable of setting the thickness of the document every time it detects that a document has been placed on the document tray.

3. The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means executes control to display an object that allows the thickness of the document to be set when it is detected that a document has been placed on the document tray and the specified function is not in operation and a function for displaying an object that allows the thickness of the document to be set in accordance with the detection that a document has been placed on the document tray is enabled, and to not display the object that allows the thickness of the document to be set when it is detected that a document has been placed on the document tray and the specified function is in operation.

4. a transport control means for transporting the document at a transport speed corresponding to the thickness of the document by using information indicating the thickness of the document set via the object; a reading means for reading an image of the document conveyed by the conveyance control means; 4. The image reading device according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. The device further includes a first determination means for determining whether the predetermined function is in operation, An image reading device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that when it is detected that the document has been placed on the document tray and the first judgment means has determined that the specified function is not in operation, the display control means is capable of displaying an object for setting the thickness of the document, and when it is detected that the document has been placed on the document tray and the first judgment means has determined that the specified function is in operation, the display control means executes control not to display the object for setting the thickness of the document.

6. a first setting means for setting information indicating a thickness of the document so that the document is transported at a transport speed corresponding to the predetermined thickness when it is detected that the document has been placed on the document tray and when the predetermined function is in operation; The image reading device according to claim 5, which is dependent on claim 4, characterized in that the transport control means transports the document at a transport speed corresponding to the thickness of the document set by the first setting means, using information indicating the thickness of the document set by the first setting means.

7. The image reading device described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that when it is detected that a document has been placed on the document tray, and the specified function is not in operation, and the accessibility function is not in operation, the display control means displays an object that can set the thickness of the document in accordance with the fact that a document has been placed on the document tray and a function for displaying an object that can set the thickness of the document is enabled.

8. The image reading device according to claim 7, characterized in that the display control means executes control not to display an object capable of setting the thickness of the document when it detects that a document has been placed on the document tray, when the specified function is not in operation, and when the accessibility function is in operation.

9. An image reading device as described in claim 7 dependent on claim 5, or claim 7 dependent on claim 8 dependent on claim 5 or claim 7 dependent on claim 6, further comprising a second judgment means for judging whether the accessibility function is operating, and the display control means displays an object capable of setting the thickness of the document when it detects that the document has been placed on the document tray, and when the first judgment means judges that the specified function is not operating, and when the second judgment means judges that the accessibility function is not operating.

10. a second setting means for setting information indicating a thickness of the document so that the document is transported at a transport speed slower than a transport speed corresponding to the predetermined thickness when it is detected that a document has been placed on the document tray, when the predetermined function is not in operation, and when the accessibility function is in operation, An image reading device as described in any one of claims 7 to 9, dependent on claim 5, characterized in that the transport control means transports the document at a transport speed slower than the transport speed corresponding to the specified thickness using information indicating the thickness of the document set by the second setting means.

11. 11. The image reading device according to claim 7, wherein the accessibility function is a function for users with weak eyesight.

12. 11. The image reading device according to claim 7, wherein the accessibility function is a function for users who cannot use their fingertips.

13. 13. The image reading device according to claim 7, wherein the accessibility function is a function using voice.

14. 14. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined function is a function for correcting density and color of an output image.

15. A method for controlling an image reading device, comprising: a display control step of: when it is detected that a document has been placed on the document tray, and when a predetermined function for performing an operation of transporting a document having a thickness thicker than a predetermined thickness or a document having a thickness thinner than the predetermined thickness at a transport speed faster than a transport speed for transporting the document, the display control step of performing control not to display the object for setting the thickness of the document, at least when it is detected that the document has been placed on the document tray, and based on the predetermined function being in operation, 2. A method for controlling an image reading device, comprising:

16. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images