Image reading device, control method, and control program

Abstract

To provide an image reading device capable of more appropriately managing an information processing device that can execute imaging control, a control method and a control program.SOLUTION: An image reading device includes an imaging part for imaging a medium, a communication part provided to be able to communicate with a plurality of information processing devices, an acquisition part for acquiring a use state of the image reading device, a setting part for setting an information processing device that can execute imaging control of the imaging part, and a control part for controlling the imaging part according to an instruction signal from the information processing device set by the setting part. The setting part determines whether or not to set another information processing device as an information processing device that can execute imaging control on the basis of the use state in the case of receiving a request signal of imaging control from the other information processing device in a state in which a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device that can execute imaging control.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus, a control method, and a control program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, image reading devices such as scanners for capturing images of media have been used in various situations. In particular, in recent years, image reading devices capable of communicating with multiple information processing devices have been developed so that image capture control can be executed from the multiple information processing devices. In such image reading devices, it is necessary to appropriately manage the information processing devices that can execute image capture control so that image capture control is not executed from the multiple information processing devices in an overlapping manner.

[0003] A scanner / printer server system has been disclosed that allows a client to directly access a scanner / printer server and interrupt scanner input without using the spooling function of a file server (see Patent Document 1). In this case, this scanner / printer server system compares the priority level on the client side, and if the priority is higher than that of a job being executed on the file server, it interrupts the execution of that job and performs image input with the scanner.

[0004] A network scanning system is disclosed in which a network scanner and a plurality of computers on which a network scanner driver for the network scanner is installed are connected via a network (see Patent Document 2). When this network scanner receives usage request information while executing control processing for operating the scanner in a state where it can be used from one computer, it performs a reservation acceptance process to store the computer identification information of the computer that sent the usage request information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-36999 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-51297 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In an image reading device that can communicate with a plurality of information processing devices, there is a demand for more appropriate management of the information processing devices that can execute image capture control.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an image reading apparatus, a control method, and a control program that are capable of more appropriately managing an information processing apparatus capable of executing image capture control. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An image reading device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image of a medium, a communication unit that is capable of communicating with a plurality of information processing devices, an acquisition unit that acquires a usage status of the image reading device, a setting unit that sets an information processing device that can execute imaging control of the imaging unit, and a control unit that controls the imaging unit in accordance with an instruction signal from the information processing device that is set by the setting unit, the setting unit restricts the imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices until a release request signal is received from the information processing device that is set as an information processing device that can execute the imaging control; When a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control and a request signal for imaging control is received from another information processing device, the setting unit determines whether or not to set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control based on the usage state.

[0009] A control method according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for an image reading device, comprising: capturing an image of a medium by an imaging unit; communicating with a plurality of information processing devices by a communication unit; acquiring a usage status of the image reading device; setting an information processing device capable of executing imaging control of the imaging unit; and controlling the imaging unit in accordance with an instruction signal from the set information processing device; restricting the imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices until a release request signal is received from the information processing device that is set as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control;When a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control and receives a request signal for imaging control from another information processing device, the device determines whether to set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control based on the usage state.

[0010] A control program according to one aspect of the present invention is a control program for an image reading device having an imaging unit that images a medium and a communication unit that is provided so as to be able to communicate with a plurality of information processing devices, the control program acquiring a usage status of the image reading device, setting an information processing device that can execute imaging control of the imaging unit, and causing the information processing device to control the imaging unit in accordance with an instruction signal from the set information processing device; restricting the imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices until a release request signal is received from the information processing device that is set as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control; When a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control and receives a request signal for imaging control from another information processing device, the device determines whether to set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing imaging control based on the usage state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, the image reading device, the control method, and the control program are capable of more appropriately managing an information processing device capable of executing image capture control. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image processing system 1 according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing device 100. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an image reading device 200. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagram for explaining a transport path inside the image reading device 200. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image reading device 200. [Figure 6] 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second storage device 230 and a second processing circuit 240. FIG. [Figure 7]10 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of the setting process. [Figure 8] 10 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of a medium reading process. [Figure 9] 10 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of another setting process. [Figure 10] 10 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of another setting process. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of another second processing circuit 340 and the like. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] An image reading device, a control method, and a control program according to one aspect of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, please note that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments, but extends to the inventions set forth in the claims and their equivalents.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image processing system 1 according to an embodiment.

[0015] The image processing system 1 includes a plurality of information processing devices 100 and an image reading device 200. The information processing devices 100 and the image reading devices 200 are connected to each other for communication via a network N. The information processing devices 100 are personal computers, notebook personal computers, tablet computers, smartphones, etc. The information processing devices 100 may also be servers, etc., installed on a cloud network. The image reading device 200 is an image scanner, etc., that conveys and captures an image of a medium, which is an original. The medium may be paper, thin paper, thick paper, card, etc. The image reading device 200 may also be a facsimile, copier, multifunction printer (MFP), etc. The image reading device 200 may also be a flatbed image scanner, facsimile, copier, MFP, etc. that captures an image without conveying a medium. The image reading device 200 may also be a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer, notebook personal computer, etc. that captures an image of a person, object, landscape, etc. The network N may be the Internet, an intranet, or the like.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the information processing device 100. As shown in FIG.

[0017] The information processing device 100 includes an operation device 101, a display device 102, a first communication device 103, a first storage device 110, a first processing circuit 120, and the like.

[0018] The operation device 101 has an input device and an interface circuit that acquires a signal from the input device, accepts an operation by a user, and outputs to the first processing circuit 120 a signal according to the input by the user.

[0019] The display device 102 has a display configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like, and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays image data on the display according to instructions from the first processing circuit 120. Note that the display device and the operating device may be integrated using a touch panel type input device.

[0020] The first communication device 103 has a wired communication interface circuit that complies with a communication protocol such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol). The first communication device 103 is capable of communicating with the image reading device 200, and is communicatively connected to the image reading device 200 to transmit and receive various images and information. The first communication device 103 may have an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals, and a wireless communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wireless communication line in accordance with a predetermined wireless communication protocol, and may be communicatively connected to the image reading device 200. The predetermined wireless communication protocol is, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

[0021] The first storage device 110 includes a memory device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory), a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as an optical disk. The first storage device 110 also stores computer programs, databases, tables, and the like used for various processes of the information processing device 100. The computer programs may be installed into the first storage device 110 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program or the like. The portable recording medium is, for example, a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), or the like.

[0022] The first processing circuit 120 operates based on a program stored in advance in the first storage device 110. The processing circuit is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The first processing circuit 120 may be a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an LSI (Large Scale Integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like.

[0023] The first processing circuit 120 is connected to the operation device 101, the display device 102, the first communication device 103, the first storage device 110, etc., and controls each of these components. The first processing circuit 120 controls each device and executes image capture control of the image reading device 200.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an image reading device 200 configured as an image scanner.

[0025] The image reading device 200 includes a lower housing 201, an upper housing 202, a mounting table 203, an ejection table 204, a display operation device 205, and the like.

[0026] The upper housing 202 is disposed in a position that covers the top surface of the image reading device 200, and is engaged with the lower housing 201 by a hinge so that it can be opened and closed when a medium is jammed or when the inside of the image reading device 200 is cleaned.

[0027] The placement stage 203 engages with the lower housing 201 so that the transported medium can be placed thereon, and the medium is placed on the placement stage 203. The ejection stage 204 engages with the lower housing 201 so that the ejected medium can be held thereon. Note that the ejection stage 204 may also be engaged with the upper housing 202.

[0028] The display operation device 205 is an example of an operation unit. The display operation device 205 has a liquid crystal display with a touch panel function, an input interface circuit that acquires input signals from the touch panel, and an output interface circuit that outputs image data to the liquid crystal display. The display operation device 205 accepts input operations by a user from the touch panel, outputs operation signals corresponding to the user's input operations, and displays image data on the liquid crystal display. The operation device and the display device may be provided separately. In this case, the operation device has an input device such as a button and an interface circuit that acquires signals from the input device, accepts input operations by a user, and outputs operation signals corresponding to the user's input operations. The display device has a display such as a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescence display, or the like, and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays the image data on the display.

[0029] 3, an arrow A1 indicates the medium transport direction. In the following, "upstream" refers to the upstream side in the medium transport direction A1, and "downstream" refers to the downstream side in the medium transport direction A1.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the transport path inside the image reading device 200. As shown in FIG.

[0031] The transport path inside the image reading device 200 includes a medium sensor 211, a feed roller 212, a separation roller 213, a first transport roller 214, a first driven roller 215, an imaging device 216, a second transport roller 217, and a second driven roller 218.

[0032] The number of each of the feed roller 212, separation roller 213, first conveyance roller 214, first driven roller 215, second conveyance roller 217, and / or second driven roller 218 is not limited to one, and may be more than one. In this case, the multiple feed rollers 212, separation rollers 213, first conveyance roller 214, first driven roller 215, second conveyance roller 217, and / or second driven roller 218 are arranged at intervals in the width direction perpendicular to the medium conveyance direction A1.

[0033] The surface of the lower housing 201 facing the upper housing 202 forms a lower guide 201a of the medium transport path, and the surface of the upper housing 202 facing the lower housing 201 forms an upper guide 202a of the medium transport path.

[0034] The medium sensor 211 is disposed upstream of the feed roller 212 and the separation roller 213. The medium sensor 211 has a contact detection sensor and detects whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 203. The medium sensor 211 generates and outputs a medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 203.

[0035] The media sensor 211 is not limited to a contact detection sensor, and any other sensor capable of detecting the presence or absence of a medium, such as an optical detection sensor, may be used as the media sensor 211. When an optical detection sensor is used, the media sensor 211 includes a light emitter and a light receiver provided on one side of the media transport path, and a light guide tube provided opposite the light emitter and light receiver across the media transport path. The light emitter is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) and emits light toward the media transport path. The light receiver receives the light emitted by the light emitter and reflected by a reflecting member. When a medium is present in a position opposite the media sensor 211, the light emitted from the light emitter is blocked by the medium, and the light receiver does not detect the light emitted from the light emitter. The light receiver generates and outputs a media signal whose signal value changes depending on whether a medium is present or not at the media sensor 211, based on the intensity of the received light. A light guide tube may be used instead of the reflecting member. The light emitter and the light receiver may be provided facing each other across the medium transport path.

[0036] The feed roller 212 is provided in the lower housing 201, and separates and feeds the media placed on the mounting table 203, starting from the bottom. The separation roller 213 is a so-called brake roller or retard roller, and is provided in the upper housing 202, is disposed opposite the feed roller 212, and rotates in the opposite direction to the medium feeding direction.

[0037] The first conveying roller 214 and the first driven roller 215 are provided downstream of the feeding roller 212 and the separation roller 213 and upstream of the imaging device 216. The first conveying roller 214 and the first driven roller 215 are provided facing each other in the upper housing 202 and the lower housing 201, respectively, and convey the medium fed by the feeding roller 212 and the separation roller 213 to the imaging device 216.

[0038] The imaging device 216 is an example of an imaging section. The imaging device 216 includes a first imaging device 216a and a second imaging device 216b arranged opposite each other across the medium transport path. The first imaging device 216a has a reduction optical system type line sensor equipped with imaging elements using CCDs (Charge Coupled Devices) arranged in a linear array. The first imaging device 216a also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging elements and an A / D converter that amplifies and analog-to-digital (A / D) converts the electrical signal output from the imaging elements. The first imaging device 216a captures an image of the surface of the transported medium to generate and output an input image.

[0039] Similarly, the second imaging device 216b has a reduction optical system type line sensor with linearly arranged CCD imaging elements. The second imaging device 216b also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging element and an A / D converter that amplifies and A / D converts the electrical signal output from the imaging element. The second imaging device 216b captures an image of the back side of the transported medium to generate and output an input image.

[0040] The image reading device 200 may be configured with only one of the first and second imaging devices 216a and 216b, and may read only one side of the medium. Also, instead of a reduction optical system type line sensor equipped with a CCD-based imaging element, a reduction optical system type line sensor equipped with a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) imaging element may be used. Also, a 1:1 optical system type CIS (Contact Image Sensor) line sensor equipped with a CCD or CMOS imaging element may be used.

[0041] The second conveying roller 217 and the second driven roller 218 are provided downstream of the imaging device 216. The second conveying roller 217 and the second driven roller 218 are provided facing each other in the upper housing 202 and the lower housing 201, respectively, and discharge the medium imaged by the imaging device 216 onto the discharge tray 104.

[0042] The media placed on the mounting table 203 is transported between the lower guide 201a and the upper guide 202a in the media transport direction A1 by the rotation of the feed roller 212 in the direction of arrow A2 in Figure 4. When feeding the media, the separation roller 213 rotates in the direction of arrow A3, i.e., the opposite direction to the media feed direction. When multiple media are placed on the mounting table 203, the feed roller 212 and the separation roller 213 work to separate only the media that are in contact with the feed roller 212 from the media placed on the mounting table 203. This restricts the transport of media other than the separated media (preventing double feeding).

[0043] The medium is guided by lower guide 201a and upper guide 202a and fed between first conveyor roller 214 and first driven roller 215. The medium is fed between first image capture device 216a and second image capture device 216b as first conveyor roller 214 rotates in the direction of arrow A4. The medium read by image capture device 216 is discharged onto discharge tray 204 as second conveyor roller 217 rotates in the direction of arrow A5.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image reading device 200. As shown in FIG.

[0045] In addition to the above-described configuration, the image reading device 200 further includes a motor 221, a second communication device 222, a second storage device 230, a second processing circuit 240, and the like.

[0046] The motor 221 includes one or more motors, and rotates the feed roller 212, separation roller 213, first conveyance roller 214, and second conveyance roller 217 to convey the medium in response to a control signal from the second processing circuit 240. Note that the first driven roller 215 and / or the second driven roller 218 may be configured to rotate by the driving force from a motor, rather than being rotated in accordance with the rotation of the first conveyance roller 214 and second conveyance roller 217.

[0047] The second communication device 222 is an example of a communication unit. The second communication device 222 has a wired communication interface circuit that complies with a communication protocol such as TCP / IP. The second communication device 222 is provided to be able to communicate with a plurality of information processing devices 100, and is communicatively connected to the plurality of information processing devices 100 to transmit and receive various images and information. The second communication device 222 may have an antenna that transmits and receives wireless signals, and a wireless communication interface circuit that transmits and receives signals through a wireless communication line in accordance with a predetermined wireless communication protocol, and may be communicatively connected to the information processing device 100. The predetermined wireless communication protocol is, for example, a wireless LAN.

[0048] The second storage device 230 includes a memory device such as RAM or ROM, a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as a flexible disk or optical disk. The second storage device 230 also stores computer programs, databases, tables, etc. used for various processes of the image reading device 200. The computer programs may be installed into the second storage device 230 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program, etc. The portable recording medium is, for example, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, etc.

[0049] The second processing circuit 240 operates based on a program stored in advance in the second storage device 230. The second processing circuit 240 is, for example, a CPU. The second processing circuit 240 may also be a DSP, an LSI, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like.

[0050] The second processing circuit 240 is connected to the display operation device 205, the medium sensor 211, the imaging device 216, the motor 221, the second communication device 222, the second storage device 230, etc., and controls each of these components. The second processing circuit 240 performs input / output control of the display operation device 205, communication control of the second communication device 222, and control of the second storage device 230, etc. Furthermore, the second processing circuit 240 performs drive control of the motor 221, image capture control of the imaging device 216, etc., in accordance with an instruction signal received from the information processing device 100 via the second communication device 222, obtains an input image, and transmits it to the information processing device 100 via the second communication device 222.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the second storage device 230 and the second processing circuit 240. As shown in FIG.

[0052] 6, the second storage device 230 stores various programs, such as a setting program 231, an acquisition program 232, and a control program 233. Each of these programs is a functional module implemented by software running on a processor. The second processing circuit 240 reads each of the programs stored in the second storage device 230 and operates in accordance with the read programs, thereby functioning as a setting unit 241, an acquisition unit 242, and a control unit 243.

[0053] FIG. 7 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of the setting process by the image reading device 200.

[0054] An example of the operation of the setting process of the image reading device 200 will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 7. The flow of the operation described below is executed mainly by the second processing circuit 240 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 200 based on a program stored in advance in the second storage device 230.

[0055] First, the setting unit 241 determines whether or not a setting request signal has been received from any of the information processing devices 100 via the second communication device 222 (step S101). The setting request signal is an example of a request signal for imaging control of the imaging device 216, and is a signal for requesting that each information processing device 100 be set as an information processing device capable of controlling imaging of the imaging device 216. When a user inputs an instruction for imaging control of the imaging device 216 of the image reading device 200 using the operation device 101, the first processing circuit 120 of the information processing device 100 transmits the setting request signal to the image reading device 200 via the first communication device 103. For example, the first processing circuit 120 transmits the setting request signal when application software for controlling the image reading device 200 is launched. Hereinafter, an information processing device capable of controlling imaging of the imaging device 216 may be referred to as a management device. When the setting request signal has not been received, the setting unit 241 proceeds to step S110.

[0056] On the other hand, when the setting unit 241 receives the setting request signal, it determines whether or not a specific information processing device 100 has already been set as the management device (step S102).

[0057] If none of the information processing devices 100 has been set as the management device yet, the setting unit 241 sets the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S103), and returns the process to step S101. Thereafter, the image capture control of the image reading device 200 is monopolized by the information processing device 100 that has been set as the management device, and other information processing devices 100 are prohibited from controlling the image capture of the image reading device 200. The setting unit 241 transmits a setting notification signal to the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222. The setting notification signal is a signal for notifying that the information processing device 100 has been set as the management device of the image reading device 200. When the information processing device 100 receives the setting notification signal, the information processing device 100 notifies the user that it has been set as the management device of the image reading device 200 by displaying on the display device 102.

[0058] In this way, the setting unit 241 sets the management device based on the logical element of whether any information processing device 100 has already been set as the management device, which enables the setting unit 241 to appropriately change the management device.

[0059] On the other hand, if a specific information processing device 100 has already been set as the management device, the acquisition unit 242 acquires the usage status of the image reading device 200 (step S104). The acquisition unit 242 acquires, as the usage status, for example, whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 203. In this case, the acquisition unit 242 acquires a medium signal from the medium sensor 211, and determines whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 203 based on the signal value of the acquired medium signal.

[0060] Furthermore, the acquiring unit 242 may acquire, as the usage state, the unused time during which no medium is placed on the mounting table 203 when the specific information processing device 100 is set as the management device by the setting unit 241. In this case, the acquiring unit 242 stores the time when the specific information processing device 100 is set as the management device by the setting unit 241 in the second storage device 230. The acquiring unit 242 periodically acquires a medium signal from the medium sensor 211 and calculates, as the unused time, the time during which no medium is placed on the mounting table 203 from the time when the specific information processing device 100 was set as the management device. Furthermore, if a medium is placed on the mounting table 203 after the specific information processing device 100 is set as the management device, the acquiring unit 242 thereafter calculates, as the unused time, the time during which no medium is placed on the mounting table 203.

[0061] Next, the setting unit 241 determines whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 203 based on the usage state acquired by the acquisition unit 242 (step S105).

[0062] If a medium is placed on the mounting base 203, the setting unit 241 refuses to set the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S106), and returns the process to step S101. The setting unit 241 transmits a setting refusal signal to the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222. The setting refusal signal is a signal for notifying that setting the information processing device 100 as the management device has been refused. When the information processing device 100 receives the setting refusal signal, it notifies the user by displaying on the display device 102 that setting as the management device has been refused.

[0063] In this way, the setting unit 241 sets the management device based on the physical factor of whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 203. This allows the setting unit 241 to appropriately change the management device.

[0064] If no medium is placed on the placement table 203, the setting unit 241 determines whether the unused time is greater than a threshold value based on the usage status acquired by the acquisition unit 242 (step S107). The threshold value is set to, for example, a sufficient time (e.g., one minute) required for a user to place a medium on the placement table 203. The threshold value may also be set to any value by the user or administrator.

[0065] If the unused time is equal to or less than the threshold, the setting unit 241 refuses to set the information processing device 100 that is the sender of the setting request signal as the management device (step S108), and returns the process to step S101. The setting unit 241 transmits a setting refusal signal to the information processing device 100 that is the sender of the setting request signal via the second communication device 222.

[0066] In this way, the setting unit 241 sets the management device based on the time factor of the time during which no medium is placed on the mounting table 203 while any information processing device 100 is set as the management device. This allows the setting unit 241 to appropriately change the management device.

[0067] On the other hand, if the unused time is greater than the threshold, the setting unit 241 sets the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S109), and returns the process to step S101. The setting unit 241 removes the information processing device 100 currently set as the management device from the management device, and transmits a removal notification signal to the information processing device 100 that has been removed from the management device via the second communication device 222. The removal notification signal is a signal for notifying that the information processing device 100 has been removed from the management device. When the information processing device 100 receives the removal notification signal, the information processing device 100 notifies the user by displaying on the display device 102 that it has been removed from the management device. Next, the setting unit 241 sets the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as a new management device, and transmits a removal notification signal to the image reading device 200 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222.

[0068] In this way, the setting unit 241 sets, from among the multiple information processing devices 100, an information processing device 100 that can execute image capture control of the image capture device 216 of the image reading device 200 as a management device. In this way, the setting unit 241 can prevent multiple information processing devices 100 from overlappingly executing image capture control of the image reading device 200, and can prevent an input image generated in accordance with an instruction from a specific information processing device 100 from being erroneously transmitted to another information processing device 100.

[0069] In particular, when a specific information processing device 100 is set as the management device and the setting unit 241 receives a setting request signal from another information processing device 100, the setting unit 241 determines whether to set the other information processing device 100 as the management device based on the usage state. The setting unit 241 determines whether to change the management device based on the usage state of the image reading device 200, thereby making it possible to appropriately change the information processing device 100 that can execute imaging control.

[0070] Furthermore, when no medium is placed on the mounting table 203, the setting unit 241 sets another information processing device 100 as the management device. That is, the setting unit 241 restricts another information processing device 100 from using the image reading device 200 that is being used by the management device, while allowing another information processing device 100 to use the image reading device 200 that is not being used by the management device. In this way, the setting unit 241 prevents multiple information processing devices 100 from using the image reading device 200 in an overlapping manner, while enabling multiple information processing devices 100 to efficiently use the image reading device 200.

[0071] Furthermore, if the unused time is greater than a threshold, the setting unit 241 sets the other information processing device 100 as the management device. That is, the setting unit 241 prohibits the other information processing device 100 from using the image reading device 200 that is being used by the management device, while allowing the other information processing device 100 to use the image reading device 200 that is not being used by the management device. In particular, the setting unit 241 can prevent the image reading device 200 from being used by the other information processing device 100 during the period from when the transportation of the medium set on the mounting table 203 is completed until the next medium is set. This allows the setting unit 241 to more reliably prevent multiple information processing devices 100 from overlappingly using the image reading device 200.

[0072] On the other hand, if the setting unit 241 has not received the setting request signal, it determines whether or not it has received a release request signal from the information processing device 100 that has been set as the management device via the second communication device 222 (step S110). The release request signal is a signal for requesting that the information processing device 100 be released as the management device of the image reading device 200. When a user inputs an instruction to release image capture control of the image capture device 216 of the image reading device 200 using the operation device 101, the first processing circuit 120 of the information processing device 100 transmits the release request signal to the image reading device 200 via the first communication device 103. For example, the first processing circuit 120 transmits the release request signal when application software for controlling the image reading device 200 is terminated. If the setting unit 241 has not received the release request signal, it does not perform any particular process and returns the process to step S101.

[0073] On the other hand, when the setting unit 241 receives the release request signal, it releases the information processing device 100 currently set as the management device from the management device (step S111), and returns the process to step S101. The setting unit 241 transmits a release notification signal to the information processing device 100 that sent the release request signal via the second communication device 222. This causes the image reading device 200 to transition to a state in which none of the information processing devices 100 is set as a management device.

[0074] Note that either the processing of steps S105 to S106 or the processing of steps S107 to S108 may be omitted. If the processing of steps S105 to S106 is omitted, then in step S104, the acquiring unit 242 does not need to acquire, as the usage status, whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 203. Furthermore, if the processing of steps S107 to S108 is omitted, then in step S104, the acquiring unit 242 does not need to acquire, as the usage status, the unused time.

[0075] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the medium reading process of the image reading device 200.

[0076] An example of the operation of the medium reading process of the image reading device 200 will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 8. The flow of the operation described below is executed mainly by the second processing circuit 240 in cooperation with each element of the image reading device 200 based on a program stored in advance in the second storage device 230.

[0077] First, the control unit 243 determines whether a first instruction signal instructing to read a medium has been received from any of the information processing devices 100 via the second communication device 222 (step S201). The first instruction signal is an example of an instruction signal. When a user inputs an instruction to read a medium using the operation device 101, the first processing circuit 120 of the information processing device 100 transmits the first instruction signal to the image reading device 200 via the first communication device 103.

[0078] When the control unit 243 receives the first instruction signal, it determines whether the information processing device 100 that sent the first instruction signal is the information processing device 100 that has been set as the management device by the setting unit 241 (step S202). If the information processing device 100 that sent the first instruction signal is the information processing device 100 that has been set as the management device by the setting unit 241, the control unit 243 permits reading of the medium and proceeds to step S205.

[0079] On the other hand, if the information processing device 100 that transmitted the first instruction signal is not the information processing device 100 that has been set as the management device by the setting unit 241, the control unit 243 refuses to read the medium (step S203) and returns the process to step S201. The control unit 243 transmits a read refusal signal indicating that reading of the medium is refused to the information processing device 100 that transmitted the first instruction signal via the second communication device 222. When the information processing device 100 receives the read refusal signal, it notifies the user by displaying on the display device 102 that reading of the medium has been refused.

[0080] On the other hand, if the control unit 243 has not received the first instruction signal in step S201, it determines whether or not a second instruction signal instructing to read a medium has been received from the display operation device 205 (step S204). When an instruction to read a medium is input by the user using the display operation device 205, the display operation device 205 transmits the second instruction signal to the second processing circuit 240. If the control unit 243 has not received the second instruction signal, it returns the process to step S201.

[0081] On the other hand, when the control unit 243 receives a first instruction signal from the information processing device 100 set as the management device, or when it receives a second instruction signal from the display operation device 205, it waits until a medium is placed on the placement stand 203 (step S205). The control unit 243 acquires a medium signal from the medium sensor 211, and determines whether or not a medium is placed on the placement stand 203 based on the acquired medium signal. Note that when a medium is not placed on the placement stand 203, the control unit 243 may display a notice on the display operation device 205 or the display device 102 of the information processing device 100 that is the sender of the first instruction signal, to prompt the user to place a medium on the placement stand 203.

[0082] When a medium is placed on the placement table 203, the control unit 243 drives the motor 221. The control unit 243 rotates the feed roller 212, the separation roller 213, the first conveying roller 214, the first driven roller 215, the second conveying roller 217, and / or the second driven roller 218 to convey the medium (step S206).

[0083] Next, the control unit 243 causes the imaging device 216 to capture an image of the medium and acquires an input image from the imaging device 216 (step S207). In this way, the control unit 243 controls the imaging device 216 in accordance with the first instruction signal from the information processing device 100 set as the management device by the setting unit 241. The control unit 243 also controls the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal from the display operation device 205.

[0084] Next, the control unit 243 outputs the acquired input image by transmitting it to the information processing device 100 set as the management device via the second communication device 222 (step S208).

[0085] Next, control unit 243 determines whether or not a medium remains on mounting table 203 based on the medium signal received from medium sensor 211 (step S209). If a medium remains on mounting table 203, control unit 243 returns the process to step S207 and repeats the processes of steps S207 to S209.

[0086] On the other hand, if no media remain on the mounting table 203, the control unit 243 stops the motor 221 (step S210) and returns the process to step S201. As a result, the control unit 243 stops the feed roller 212, the separation roller 213, the first conveyor roller 214, the first driven roller 215, the second conveyor roller 217, and / or the second driven roller 218.

[0087] As described above in detail, when the image reading device 200 is occupied by a specific information processing device 100 and receives a request for occupancy from another information processing device 100, the image reading device 200 determines whether to permit occupancy by the other information processing device 100 based on the usage state of the image reading device 200. This enables the image reading device 200 to more appropriately manage the information processing devices 100 that can execute imaging control.

[0088] In particular, when the image reading device 200 is occupied by a specific information processing device 100 but is not being used by that information processing device 100, it is possible to improve availability by allowing use by other information processing devices 100. Furthermore, when the image reading device 200 is occupied by a specific information processing device 100 and is being used by that information processing device 100, it is possible to improve confidentiality by restricting use by other information processing devices 100. In other words, the image reading device 200 can achieve both availability and confidentiality.

[0089] Furthermore, in the image processing system 1, even if a user of an information processing device 100 who is occupying the image reading device 200 forgets to release the occupancy of the image reading device 200, a user of another information processing device 100 can use the image reading device 200. Therefore, the image reading device 200 can be used efficiently by multiple users.

[0090] FIG. 9 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of the setting process by the image reading device 200 according to another embodiment.

[0091] The flowchart shown in Fig. 9 is executed in place of the flowchart shown in Fig. 7. The processing of steps S309 to S315 in Fig. 9 is similar to the processing of steps S105 to S111 in Fig. 7, so the description will be omitted and only the processing of steps S301 to S308 will be described below.

[0092] First, similar to the process of step S101, the setting unit 241 determines whether or not a setting request signal has been received from any of the information processing devices 100 via the second communication device 222 (step S301). In this embodiment, the setting request signal includes either a first control request requesting imaging control of the imaging device 216 in accordance with a first instruction signal from the information processing device 100, or a second control request requesting imaging control of the imaging device 216 in accordance with a second instruction signal from the display / operation device 205. The setting request signal including the first control request is an example of a request signal for imaging control based on the first instruction signal, and the setting request signal including the second control request is an example of a request signal for imaging control based on the second instruction signal. The first processing circuit 120 of the information processing device 100 transmits the setting request signal to the image reading device 200 via the first communication device 103 in accordance with a request specified by the user using the operation device 101. If the setting request signal has not been received, the setting unit 241 proceeds to step S314.

[0093] On the other hand, when the setting unit 241 receives the setting request signal, it determines whether or not a specific information processing device 100 has already been set as the management device (step S302).

[0094] If none of the information processing devices 100 has been set as the management device yet, the setting unit 241 sets the information processing device 100 that has transmitted the setting request signal as the management device (step S303), similar to the process of step S103, and returns the process to step S301. The setting unit 241 further sets, in accordance with the control request included in the setting request signal, which of the imaging control of the imaging device 216 in accordance with the first instruction signal from the information processing device 100 and the imaging control of the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal from the display operation device 205 is to be permitted. Hereinafter, the state in which the imaging control of the imaging device 216 in accordance with the first instruction signal from the information processing device 100 is permitted may be referred to as a first control state, and the state in which the imaging control of the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal from the display operation device 205 is permitted may be referred to as a second control state.

[0095] 8 in the first control state, the control unit 243 executes the processes of step S205 and thereafter to control the imaging device 216, provided that the information processing device 100 that transmitted the first instruction signal is set as the management device. On the other hand, when the control unit 243 receives a second instruction signal in step S204 in Fig. 8 in the first control state, the control unit 243 denies reading of the medium and notifies the user by displaying a message on the display / operation device 205 that reading of the medium is denied. That is, in the first control state, the control unit 243 controls the imaging device 216 in accordance with the first instruction signal.

[0096] 8 in the second control state, the control unit 243 refuses to read the medium and transmits a reading refusal signal to the information processing device 100 that transmitted the first instruction signal via the second communication device 222. On the other hand, when the control unit 243 receives a second instruction signal in step S204 in Fig. 8 in the second control state, the control unit 243 executes the processes from step S205 onwards to control the imaging device 216. That is, in the second control state, the control unit 243 controls the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal.

[0097] On the other hand, if a specific information processing device 100 has already been set as the management device, the acquiring unit 242 acquires the usage status of the image reading device 200 (step S304). The acquiring unit 242 acquires, as the usage status, whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 203 and / or the unused time, as well as the control status of the image reading device 200. The acquiring unit 242 identifies whether the control status of the image reading device 200 is the first control status, the second control status, or neither. That is, the acquiring unit 242 identifies, as the usage status, whether the control unit 243 controls the image capturing device 216 in accordance with the first instruction signal, the image capturing device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal, or the image capturing device 216 is not controlled in accordance with either instruction signal.

[0098] Next, the setting unit 241 determines whether the image reading device 200 is in the first control state based on the usage state acquired by the acquisition unit 242, and determines whether the control request included in the setting request signal is the second control request (step S305).

[0099] If the image reading device 200 is in the first control state and the control request is the second control request, the setting unit 241 refuses to set the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S306), and returns the process to step S101. The setting unit 241 transmits a setting refusal signal to the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222. Note that the setting unit 241 may also refuse to set the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device when the image reading device 200 is in the second control state and the control request is the second control request.

[0100] That is, when a specific information processing device 100 is set as an administration device and the setting unit 241 receives a setting request signal including a second control request from another information processing device 100, the setting unit 241 does not set the other information processing device 100 as an administration device. As a result, the setting unit 241 can prevent a user of another information processing device 100 from using the image reading device 200 using the display operation device 205 when the specific information processing device 100 is using the image reading device 200. In particular, the setting unit 241 can prevent a user of another information processing device 100 from using the image reading device 200 using the display operation device 205 when the user of the specific information processing device 100 is using the image reading device 200 at a location distant from the image reading device 200. Therefore, the image reading device 200 can prevent an input image generated in accordance with the user's operation of the display operation device 205 from being erroneously transmitted to an information processing device 100 used by another user.

[0101] On the other hand, if the image reading device 200 is not in the first control state, or if the control request is not the second control request, the setting unit 241 determines whether the image reading device 200 is in the second control state based on the usage state acquired by the acquisition unit 242 (step S307).

[0102] If the image reading device 200 is in the second control state, the setting unit 241 refuses to set the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S308), and returns the process to step S101. The setting unit 241 transmits a setting refusal signal to the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222.

[0103] In this way, the setting unit 241 sets the management device based on logical elements of how the image reading device 200 is controlled by the information processing device 100. This allows the setting unit 241 to appropriately change the management device.

[0104] As described above, for example, the information processing device 100 transmits a setting request signal when application software for controlling the image reading device 200 is launched, and transmits a release request signal when the software is terminated. When image capture control of the image capturing device 216 is executed in accordance with a first instruction signal from the information processing device 100, the user typically launches the software when using the image reading device 200 and terminates the software after use is complete. Therefore, if the image reading device 200 is not being used despite being occupied by a specific information processing device 100, it is highly likely that the user forgot to terminate the software after use of the image reading device 200 is complete.

[0105] On the other hand, when image capture control of the image capture device 216 is executed in accordance with the second instruction signal from the display operation device 205, the software is used while being resident in the information processing device 100 so as to be able to monitor the operation of the display operation device 205. Therefore, when the image reading device 200 is occupied by a specific information processing device 100, there is a high possibility that the image reading device 200 will be used at any time even if it is not currently being used.

[0106] As described above, when the control unit 243 is controlling the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal, the setting unit 241 does not set another information processing device 100 as a management device. That is, when the image reading device 200 is controlled using the display operation device 205, the setting unit 241 does not set another information processing device 100 as a management device. This allows the setting unit 241 to more reliably prevent the image reading device 200 controlled using the display operation device 205 from being used by another information processing device 100.

[0107] Note that it is sufficient that at least one of the processes of steps S305 to S306, steps S307 to S308, steps S309 to S310, and steps S311 to S312 is executed, and the other processes may be omitted. If the processes of steps S305 to S306 and steps S307 to S308 are omitted, the acquisition unit 242 does not need to acquire the control state of the image reading device 200 as the usage state in step S304. If the processes of steps S309 to S310 are omitted, the acquisition unit 242 does not need to acquire whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table 203 as the usage state in step S304. Furthermore, if the processes of steps S311 to S312 are omitted, the acquisition unit 242 does not need to acquire the unused time as the usage state in step S304.

[0108] As described above in detail, the image reading device 200 is now able to more appropriately manage the information processing device 100 that can perform imaging control, even when it is specified whether the device used to instruct imaging control is the information processing device 100 or the image reading device 200.

[0109] FIG. 10 is an operation sequence showing an example of the operation of the setting process by the image reading device 200 according to yet another embodiment.

[0110] The flowchart shown in Fig. 10 is executed in place of the flowchart shown in Fig. 9. The processes of steps S401 to S406, S407 to S408, and S415 to S416 in Fig. 10 are the same as the processes of steps S301 to S306, S309 to S310, and S314 to S315 in Fig. 9, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. Only the processes of steps S409 to S414 will be described below.

[0111] In step S409, the setting unit 241 determines whether the image reading device 200 is in the second control state based on the usage state acquired by the acquisition unit 242, and determines whether the control request included in the setting request signal is the second control request (step S409).

[0112] If the image reading device 200 is not in the second control state, i.e., if the image reading device 200 is in the first control state, or if the control request is not the second control request, the setting unit 241 sets a threshold to be compared with the unused time to a first threshold (step S410). The first threshold is set to, for example, a sufficient time (e.g., one minute) required for a user to set a medium on the mounting table 203. The first threshold may also be set to any value by the user or administrator.

[0113] On the other hand, when the image reading device 200 is in the second control state and the control request is the second control request, the setting unit 241 sets the threshold for comparison with the unused time to the second threshold (step S411). The second threshold is set to a value (e.g., 3 minutes) greater than the first threshold. The second threshold may also be set to any value by the user or administrator. Note that the setting unit 241 may also set the threshold to the second threshold when the image reading device 200 is in the second control state and the control request is the first control request.

[0114] Next, the setting unit 241 determines whether the unused time is greater than the threshold set in step S410 or S411 (step S412).

[0115] If the unused time is equal to or less than the threshold, the setting unit 241 refuses to set the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S413), and returns the process to step S401. The setting unit 241 transmits a setting refusal signal to the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222.

[0116] On the other hand, if the unused time is greater than the threshold, the setting unit 241 sets the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as the management device (step S414), and returns the process to step S401. The setting unit 241 removes the information processing device 100 that is currently set as the management device from the management device list, and transmits a removal notification signal to the information processing device 100 that has been removed from the management device list via the second communication device 222. Next, the setting unit 241 sets the information processing device 100 that sent the setting request signal as a new management device, and transmits a setting notification signal to the image reading device 200 that sent the setting request signal via the second communication device 222.

[0117] In this way, the setting unit 241 sets the management device based on logical elements of how the image reading device 200 is controlled by the information processing device 100. This allows the setting unit 241 to appropriately change the management device.

[0118] As described above, when the image reading device 200 configured to execute imaging control in accordance with the first instruction signal from the information processing device 100 is not in use, there is a high possibility that the user has forgotten to close the software after finishing using the image reading device 200. On the other hand, when the image reading device 200 configured to execute imaging control in accordance with the second instruction signal from the display / operation device 205 is not in use, there is a high possibility that the image reading device 200 will be used at any timing.

[0119] The setting unit 241 sets the threshold value when the control unit 243 is controlling the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal to a value greater than the threshold value when the control unit 243 is not controlling the imaging device 216 in accordance with the second instruction signal. That is, the setting unit 241 makes it difficult to set another information processing device 100 as a management device when the image reading device 200 is controlled using the display operation device 205. This makes it possible for the setting unit 241 to prevent frequent changes in the information processing device 100 that occupies the image reading device 200 that is set to be controlled using the display operation device 205. Therefore, the user of the information processing device 100 that occupies the image reading device 200 can stably use the image reading device 200.

[0120] The processes of steps S405 to S406 and steps S407 to S408 may be omitted. If the processes of steps S407 to S408 are omitted, in step S404, the acquiring unit 242 does not need to acquire, as the usage state, whether or not a medium is placed on the placing table 203.

[0121] As described above in detail, the image reading device 200 can more appropriately manage the information processing device 100 that can execute imaging control, even when the threshold for comparison with the unused time is dynamically changed.

[0122] 11 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second processing circuit 340 in an image reading device according to another embodiment. The second processing circuit 340 is used in place of the second processing circuit 240 of the image reading device 200, and executes setting processing, image reading processing, and the like in place of the second processing circuit 240. The second processing circuit 340 includes a setting circuit 341, an acquisition circuit 342, a control circuit 343, and the like. Note that each of these components may be configured as an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, firmware, and the like.

[0123] The setting circuit 341 is an example of a setting unit, and has the same function as the setting unit 241. The setting circuit 341 receives a setting request signal from the information processing device 100 via the second communication device 222, and also receives the usage status of the image reading device from the acquisition circuit 342, sets the management device based on the received usage status, and outputs the setting result to the control circuit 343.

[0124] The acquisition circuit 342 is an example of an acquisition unit, and has the same function as the acquisition unit 242. The acquisition circuit 342 receives a medium signal from the medium sensor 211, acquires the usage status of the image reading device based on the received medium signal, etc., and outputs the status to the setting circuit 341.

[0125] The control circuit 343 is an example of a control unit, and has the same functions as the control unit 243. The control circuit 343 receives each instruction signal from the display operation device 205 or the second communication device 222, a medium signal from the medium sensor 211, and a setting result of the management device from the setting circuit 341, and controls the motor 221 based on the received information, and receives an input image from the imaging device 216. The control circuit 343 outputs the input image to the information processing device 100 via the second communication device 222.

[0126] As described above in detail, even when the image reading device uses the second processing circuit 340, it is possible to more appropriately manage the information processing device 100 that can execute imaging control. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 100 information processing device, 200 image reading device, 203 mounting base, 205 display operation device, 216 imaging device, 222 second communication device, 241 setting unit, 242 acquisition unit, 243 control unit

Claims

1. An image reading device, an imaging unit that images a medium; a communication unit that is capable of communicating with a plurality of information processing devices; an acquisition unit that acquires a usage status of the image reading device; a setting unit that sets an information processing device capable of executing imaging control of the imaging unit; a control unit that controls the imaging unit in accordance with an instruction signal from the information processing device that is set by the setting unit, the setting unit restricts imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices until a release request signal is received from an information processing device that is set as an information processing device that can execute the imaging control; when a request signal for the imaging control is received from another information processing device in a state where a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control, the setting unit determines whether or not to set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control based on the usage state. An image reading device characterized by:

2. An image reading device as described in claim 1, wherein the setting unit restricts imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices, regardless of whether the instruction signal is received, until the setting unit receives the release request signal from an information processing device that is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control.

3. The recording medium further includes a mounting table on which the medium is mounted, the acquisition unit acquires, as the usage state, whether or not a medium is placed on the placement table; 3. The image reading device according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit sets another information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control when no medium is placed on the table.

4. The recording medium further includes a mounting table on which the medium is mounted, the acquiring unit acquires, as the usage state, a time period during which no medium is placed on the placement stand in a state in which the specific information processing device is set by the setting unit as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control; The image reading device according to claim 1 , wherein the setting unit sets the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control when the time is greater than a threshold value.

5. further comprising an operation unit that accepts operations by a user; the control unit further controls the imaging unit in accordance with a second instruction signal from the operation unit; the acquisition unit acquires, as the usage state, whether the control unit is controlling the imaging unit in accordance with the second instruction signal; 5. The image reading device according to claim 4, wherein the setting unit sets the threshold value when the control unit controls the imaging unit in accordance with the second instruction signal to a value greater than the threshold value when the control unit does not control the imaging unit in accordance with the second instruction signal.

6. further comprising an operation unit that accepts operations by a user; the control unit further controls the imaging unit in accordance with a second instruction signal from the operation unit; the acquisition unit acquires, as the usage state, whether the control unit is controlling the imaging unit in accordance with the second instruction signal; The image reading device according to claim 1 , wherein the setting unit does not set another information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control when the control unit is controlling the imaging unit in accordance with the second instruction signal.

7. further comprising an operation unit that accepts operations by a user; the control unit further controls the imaging unit in accordance with a second instruction signal from the operation unit; 3. The image reading device according to claim 1, wherein when a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control and the setting unit receives a request signal for the imaging control based on the second instruction signal from another information processing device, the setting unit does not set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control.

8. A control method for an image reading device, comprising: The imaging unit captures an image of the medium; communicating with a plurality of information processing devices through a communication unit; Acquire the usage status of the image reading device; an information processing device capable of executing imaging control of the imaging unit; Controlling the imaging unit in accordance with an instruction signal from the set information processing device; restricting the imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices until a release request signal is received from an information processing device that is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control; when a request signal for the imaging control is received from another information processing device in a state where a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control, it is determined whether or not to set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control based on the usage state. A control method comprising:

9. A control program for an image reading device having an imaging unit that images a medium and a communication unit that is provided so as to be able to communicate with a plurality of information processing devices, Acquire the usage status of the image reading device; an information processing device capable of executing imaging control of the imaging unit; causing the information processing device to control the imaging unit in accordance with an instruction signal from the set information processing device; restricting the imaging control of the imaging unit by other information processing devices until a release request signal is received from an information processing device that is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control; when a request signal for the imaging control is received from another information processing device in a state where a specific information processing device is set as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control, it is determined whether or not to set the other information processing device as an information processing device capable of executing the imaging control based on the usage state. A control program comprising:

Images