Image reading device and control method for image reading device

Abstract

To provide an image reading device that can achieve a function related to reading of an image according to power consumption, and a method for controlling the image reading device.SOLUTION: A first mode is a mode that is controllable in a connection state in which a first instrument that can supply power with a power value included in a first power range is connected. A second mode is a mode that is controllable in a connection state in which a second instrument that can supply power with a power value included in a second power range higher than the first power range is connected. In the first mode, a control unit does not execute first radio output processing before the end of reading processing, and can execute the first radio output processing after the end of the reading processing. In the second mode, the control unit can execute the first radio output processing either before the end of the reading processing or after the end of the reading processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading device configured to read an image from a document and a method for controlling the image reading device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image reading device connectable to a USB device. When the image reading device is connected to a USB device such as a terminal device, it can receive power from the USB device. Such an image reading device can be controlled to one of multiple modes with different power consumption levels in response to connection to the USB device. The multiple modes include a standard mode and a power-saving mode that consumes less power than the standard mode. The image reading device can be controlled to the power-saving mode when no image is being read. When an image reading command is issued while the image reading device is controlled in the power-saving mode, it can be controlled to the standard mode. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-32239 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when an image reading command is issued in a low-power mode, the image reading device switches to a high-power mode, resulting in increased power consumption. Thus, it is desirable for image reading devices to be able to implement image reading functions in accordance with power consumption. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An image reading device that solves the above problem comprises a reading unit configured to read an image from a document and a control unit configured to control the reading of the image, wherein the control unit is controllable to any one of a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode, wherein the first mode is a mode that can be controlled in a connected state where a first device capable of supplying a power value included in a first power range is connected, and the second mode is a mode that can be controlled in a connected state where a second device capable of supplying a power value included in a second power range higher than the first power range is connected, and the control unit is capable of executing a reading process that causes the reading unit to read an image from a document and a first wireless output process that causes image data of the image read by the reading unit to be output via a first wireless communication, and in the first mode, the first wireless output process can be executed after the reading process is completed without executing the first wireless output process before the reading process is completed, and in the second mode, the first wireless output process can be executed either before the reading process is completed or after the reading process is completed.

[0006] A control method for an image reading device that solves the above problem includes a control method for an image reading device having a reading unit configured to read an image from a document, the control method being capable of controlling the image reading device to one of a plurality of modes including a first mode that can be controlled in a connection state where a first device that can supply power values ​​included in a first power range is connected, and a second mode that can be controlled in a connection state where a second device that can supply power values ​​included in a second power range higher than the first power range is connected; in the first mode, a first wireless output process that outputs image data of the image read by the reading unit via a first wireless communication can be executed after the reading process is completed without executing the first wireless output process before the reading process is completed, in which an image is read from a document by the reading unit; and in the second mode, the first wireless output process can be executed either before the reading process is completed or after the reading process is completed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a side view of the image reading device in a first position. [Figure 2] FIG. 4 is a side view of the image reading device in a second position. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image reading device. [Figure 4] 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams showing control contents for each of a plurality of modes. [Figure 5] 10 is a timing chart showing sensor control timing. [Figure 6] 4 is a timing chart showing image reading timing and image data output timing. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a startup mode setting process. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a battery identification process. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a normal mode setting process. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a control table. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a charging control process. [Figure 12] 4 is a timing chart showing image reading timing and image data output timing. [Figure 13] 4 is a timing chart showing image reading timing and image data output timing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] [First embodiment] An embodiment of an image reading device will be described below with reference to the drawings. The image reading device is, for example, a sheet-fed scanner in which a fixed reading unit reads a document such as paper or film that is being conveyed. The image reading device is not limited to a sheet-fed scanner, and may also be a flatbed scanner.

[0009] <Configuration of image reading device 11> 1 and 2, the image reading device 11 includes a housing 12 and a base 13. The housing 12 is supported by the base 13. The base 13 is installed, for example, on a horizontal surface. The housing 12 is configured to be rotatable with respect to the base 13.

[0010] The housing 12 is configured to be able to switch its position. For example, the housing 12 is configured to switch its position by rotating relative to the base 13. For example, the housing 12 switches between a first position shown in FIG. 1 and a second position shown in FIG. 2. The housing 12 is configured such that its inclination relative to the base 13 changes between the first position and the second position. In this way, when the housing 12 is in the first position, the image reading device 11 can reduce the footprint of the image reading device 11 compared to when the housing 12 is in the second position.

[0011] The housing 12 has a supply port 14. The supply port 14 is an opening through which the document D is supplied before being read. The housing 12 may have a plurality of discharge ports 15. The plurality of discharge ports 15 are openings through which the document D is discharged after being read. The plurality of discharge ports 15 includes a first discharge port 15A and a second discharge port 15B.

[0012] The image reading device 11 includes a paper feed tray 16. The paper feed tray 16 extends from inside the housing 12 toward the outside of the housing 12 through the supply port 14. The paper feed tray 16 can hold an original document D before reading. The paper feed tray 16 can slide in a direction in which the original document D before reading is fed. The paper feed tray 16 corresponds to an example of a first tray.

[0013] The image reading device 11 includes a paper discharge tray 17. The paper discharge tray 17 extends from inside the housing 12 toward the outside of the housing 12 through the first discharge opening 15A. The document D can be placed on the paper discharge tray 17 after reading. The paper discharge tray 17 is slidable in the direction in which the document D is discharged after reading. The paper discharge tray 17 corresponds to an example of a second tray.

[0014] The image reading device 11 includes a transport path 18. The transport path 18 is a path along which the original D is transported. The transport path 18 extends inside the housing 12. The image reading device 11 includes, for example, a first transport path 18A and a second transport path 18B. The first transport path 18A is the path indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 1. The second transport path 18B is the path indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 2.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the first transport path 18A extends from the supply port 14 toward the first discharge port 15A. The first transport path 18A includes, for example, a common transport path 19. The common transport path 19 is a path common to the first transport path 18A and the second transport path 18B. The common transport path 19 extends in a straight line or in a linear shape. The direction in which the common transport path 19 extends is the sub-scanning direction D1. The common transport path 19 is a path that passes through the reading area SA. The first transport path 18A includes a curved path 20A. The curved path 20A extends from the common transport path 19. The curved path 20A is curved, for example, in a U-shape. The first transport path 18A is, for example, a path along which the document D is transported when the housing 12 is in the first position.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the second transport path 18B extends from the supply port 14 toward the second discharge port 15B. The second transport path 18B includes, for example, the common transport path 19. The second transport path 18B includes a linear path 20B. The linear path 20B extends from the common transport path 19. The linear path 20B is a path that is straight or extends in a linear manner. The second transport path 18B is, for example, a path along which the original D is transported when the housing 12 is in the second position. In this way, the image reading device 11 is configured so that the path along which the original D is transported is switched by switching the position of the housing 12.

[0017] In this way, the image reading device 11 is configured so that the angle of the common transport path 19 with respect to the horizontal plane changes as the posture of the housing 12 is switched. In particular, the image reading device 11 may be configured so that when the housing 12 is in the second posture, the angle of the common transport path 19 with respect to the horizontal plane is gentler than when the housing 12 is in the first posture.

[0018] The image reading device 11 includes a transport unit 21. The transport unit 21 is configured to transport an original D in a sub-scanning direction D1. In particular, the transport unit 21 is capable of transporting an original D made of thin paper. The transport unit 21 is capable of transporting an original D made of thick paper. The transport unit 21 is capable of transporting a carrier sheet holding the original D therebetween.

[0019] The transport unit 21 includes one or more rollers. The transport unit 21 includes, for example, a paper feed roller 22, a first pair of rollers 23, a second pair of rollers 24, and a third pair of rollers 25. The paper feed roller 22 is provided at the upstream end of the transport path 18. The paper feed roller 22 supplies the documents D placed on the paper feed tray 16 one by one into the interior of the housing 12 through the supply port 14.

[0020] The first roller pair 23 is provided downstream of the paper feed roller 22 on the transport path 18. The first roller pair 23 includes a first drive roller 23A and a first separation roller 23B. The coefficient of friction of the outer peripheral surface of the first separation roller 23B with respect to the document D is greater than that of the first drive roller 23A. The first separation roller 23B rotates at a slightly slower rotational speed than the first drive roller 23A. As a result, even if multiple overlapping sheets of the document D are fed from the paper feed roller 22, the first roller pair 23 separates the bottom sheet and transports it downstream on the transport path 18.

[0021] The second roller pair 24 is provided downstream of the first roller pair 23 on the transport path 18. The second roller pair 24 is provided upstream of the reading area SA on the transport path 18. The second roller pair 24 includes a second drive roller 24A and a second driven roller 24B. The second drive roller 24A is driven to rotate so as to transport the document D at a predetermined transport speed. The second driven roller 24B rotates together with the rotation of the second drive roller 24A.

[0022] The third roller pair 25 is provided downstream of the second roller pair 24 on the transport path 18. The third roller pair 25 is provided downstream of the reading area SA on the transport path 18. The third roller pair 25 includes a third drive roller 25A and a third driven roller 25B. The third drive roller 25A is driven to rotate so as to transport the document D at a predetermined transport speed. The third driven roller 25B rotates together with the rotation of the third drive roller 25A.

[0023] The transport unit 21 includes a path switching member 26. The path switching member 26 is, for example, a flap. The path switching member 26 switches the path along which the document D is transported to the first transport path 18A or the second transport path 18B. The path switching member 26 switches the path along which the document D is transported by blocking the first transport path 18A or the second transport path 18B. When the path switching member 26 blocks the first transport path 18A, it guides the document D to the second transport path 18B. When the path switching member 26 blocks the second transport path 18B, it guides the document D to the first transport path 18A.

[0024] The path switching member 26 is interlocked with, for example, the posture of the housing 12. When the housing 12 is in the first posture, the path switching member 26 blocks the second transport path 18B. When the housing 12 is in the second posture, the path switching member 26 blocks the first transport path 18A. The path switching member 26 may be displaced regardless of the posture of the housing 12. In other words, the path may be switched by the path switching member 26 regardless of the posture of the housing 12.

[0025] The image reading device 11 includes one or more sensors that perform detection related to the reading of an image. Specifically, the image reading device 11 may include a first original sensor 31. The first original sensor 31 detects the presence or absence of an original D in the paper feed tray 16. The first original sensor 31 may be, for example, a contact sensor having a lever, or may be a non-contact sensor such as an optical sensor.

[0026] The image reading device 11 may include a document protection sensor 32. The document protection sensor 32 detects the position of the document D in the paper feed tray 16. In particular, the document protection sensor 32 detects that the document D fed to the feed port 14 is being transported at an angle in order to protect the document D. The document protection sensor 32 may be a non-contact sensor such as an optical sensor, or may be a contact sensor having a lever.

[0027] The image reading device 11 may include a document thickness sensor 33. The document thickness sensor 33 detects the thickness of the document D placed on the paper feed tray 16. The document thickness sensor 33 may be capable of detecting, for example, the type of document, either a thin document D, a thick document D, or a carrier sheet. The document thickness sensor 33 is located, for example, inside the housing 12. The document thickness sensor 33 may be, for example, an ultrasonic sensor or an optical sensor.

[0028] The image reading device 11 may include a carrier sheet sensor 34. The carrier sheet sensor 34 is provided between the first drive roller 23A and the second drive roller 24A. The carrier sheet sensor 34 detects the carrier sheet sandwiching the original D. The carrier sheet is a sheet configured to sandwich the original D between transparent films. The carrier sheet can be transported along the transport path 18 with the original D, for example, an extremely small original D, sandwiched between them. The carrier sheet sensor 34 may be, for example, an optical sensor. The carrier sheet sensor 34 detects an identification portion, such as a mark, on the original D or the carrier sheet.

[0029] The image reading device 11 may include a multi-feed sensor 35. The multi-feed sensor 35 is provided between the first drive roller 23A and the second drive roller 24A. The multi-feed sensor 35 is provided downstream of the carrier sheet sensor 34 on the transport path 18. The multi-feed sensor 35 detects multi-feeding of the original documents D. Multi-feeding of the original documents D means that multiple sheets of the original documents D are transported in an overlapping state.

[0030] The image reading device 11 may include a second document sensor 36. The second document sensor 36 is provided downstream of the second roller pair 24 on the transport path 18. The second document sensor 36 detects the presence or absence of a document D transported by the second roller pair 24. The second document sensor 36 may be, for example, a contact sensor having a lever, or may be a non-contact sensor such as an optical sensor.

[0031] The image reading device 11 may include a posture sensor 37. The posture sensor 37 detects the posture of the housing 12. The posture sensor 37 may include a first posture sensor 37A and a second posture sensor 37B, or may be configured as a single sensor. The first posture sensor 37A detects that the housing 12 is in the first posture. The first posture sensor 37A may be configured, for example, to detect the path switching member 26 blocking the second transport path 18B. The second posture sensor 37B detects that the housing 12 is in the second posture. The second posture sensor 37B is configured, for example, to detect the path switching member 26 blocking the first transport path 18A.

[0032] The attitude sensor 37 is not limited to a sensor that detects the path switching member 26, and may be, for example, a gyro sensor. When the attitude sensor 37 is a gyro sensor, the image reading device 11 may be provided with a separate sensor that detects the position of the path switching member 26.

[0033] The image reading device 11 includes one or more reading units 40. The reading units 40 are configured to read an image from an original document D. The reading units 40 read an image from an original document D transported on a common transport path 19 in a reading area SA. The reading units 40 are housed in a housing 12.

[0034] The image reading device 11 includes, for example, two reading units 40. The two reading units 40 are positioned on either side of the common transport path 19. The two reading units 40 face each other. The two reading units 40 read different sides of the document D. One of the two reading units 40 reads the front side of the document D. The other of the two reading units 40 reads the back side of the document D. In this way, the image reading device 11 reads one side of the document D or both sides of the document D.

[0035] The reading unit 40 includes a light source 41, an image sensor 42, and a background plate 43. The light source 41 is, for example, an LED, a fluorescent lamp, etc. The light source 41 irradiates light toward the background plate 43 facing it.

[0036] The image sensors 42 are arranged in the main scanning direction D2. The image sensors 42 are modularized. The image sensors 42 are, for example, contact-type image sensors. More specifically, the image sensors 42 are CMOS image sensors. The image sensors 42 photoelectrically convert the received light. The image sensors 42 output an output signal having a value corresponding to the amount of received light.

[0037] The image sensor 42 may be a monochrome sensor or a color sensor. The reading unit 40 may be configured to read the original D in full color. For example, the reading unit 40 may be configured to read the original D in three colors, RGB. The reading unit 40 may be configured to read the original D in grayscale.

[0038] The background plate 43 faces, for example, the light source 41 and the image sensor 42 of another reading unit 40. The background plate 43 reflects light emitted from the light source 41 and makes it incident on the image sensor 42. The background plate 43 is read by the image sensor 42 together with the original D. The background plate 43 is read by the image sensor 42 as a background together with the original D. The color of the background plate 43 is not limited to white, and may be gray, for example.

[0039] <Electrical configuration of image reading device 11> Next, the electrical configuration of the image reading device 11 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the image reading device 11 includes a control unit 50. The control unit 50 may have overall control over the image reading device 11 and control various operations performed by the image reading device 11. In other words, the control unit 50 is configured to control image reading. The control unit 50 may include one or more processors that execute various processes according to a program, one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as application-specific integrated circuits that execute at least some of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM, and the memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer. The control unit 50 may also include a system on a chip (SOC).

[0040] The image reading device 11 includes an operation unit 27. The operation unit 27 is provided on the housing 12. The operation unit 27 includes a plurality of switches that can be operated by the user. The plurality of switches include a power switch, a start switch, and a stop switch.

[0041] The image reading device 11 includes a notification unit 28. The notification unit 28 is provided in the housing 12. The notification unit 28 may be a display unit such as an LED. The notification unit 28 is configured to provide notifications regarding image reading. The notification unit 28 displays information regarding image reading, such as power on / off and mode type. In this way, the notification unit 28 notifies the user of the controlled mode.

[0042] The image reading device 11 includes a touch panel 29 and a liquid crystal display unit 30. The touch panel 29 is provided on the housing 12. The touch panel 29 includes a touch area that can be operated by a user. The liquid crystal display unit 30 may be a display unit formed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal display unit 30 is configured to display an image at a position corresponding to the touch area of ​​the touch panel 29. The liquid crystal display unit 30 displays information related to image reading, such as setting information. The liquid crystal display unit 30 can display more detailed information than the notification unit 28.

[0043] The transport unit 21 includes a feed motor 44 and a transport motor 45. The feed motor 44 is a power source for driving and rotating the paper feed roller 22 and the first drive roller 23A. The transport motor 45 is a power source for driving and rotating the first separation roller 23B, the second drive roller 24A, and the third drive roller 25A.

[0044] The image reading device 11 may include an encoder 46. The encoder 46 is provided inside the housing 12. The encoder 46 may be, for example, a rotary encoder. The encoder 46 may be capable of detecting the rotation of the second drive roller 24A, but may also be capable of detecting the rotation of other rollers. The encoder 46 outputs a detection signal including a number of pulses proportional to the amount of rotation of the second drive roller 24A.

[0045] The image reading device 11 includes a paper feed tray motor 47. The paper feed tray motor 47 is a drive source that can move the paper feed tray 16. The paper feed tray motor 47 corresponds to an example of a first tray drive source.

[0046] The image reading device 11 includes a paper discharge tray motor 48. The paper discharge tray motor 48 is a drive source that can move the paper discharge tray 17. The paper discharge tray motor 48 corresponds to an example of a second tray drive source.

[0047] The image reading device 11 includes a posture drive motor 49. The posture drive motor 49 is a power source that drives the housing 12 so as to change the posture of the housing 12. The posture drive motor 49 corresponds to an example of a housing drive source.

[0048] The control unit 50 is connected to the operation unit 27, the notification unit 28, the touch panel 29, and the liquid crystal display unit 30. The control unit 50 can input an operation signal from the operation unit 27. The control unit 50 can output a notification signal to the notification unit 28. The control unit 50 can input a touch signal from the touch panel 29. The control unit 50 can control whether the touch panel 29 is enabled or disabled. The control unit 50 can output a signal to the liquid crystal display unit 30 to display an image. The control unit 50 can control whether the liquid crystal display unit 30 is enabled or disabled.

[0049] The control unit 50 is connected to the first document sensor 31, the document protection sensor 32, the document thickness sensor 33, the carrier sheet sensor 34, the double feed sensor 35, the second document sensor 36, the attitude sensor 37, and the encoder 46. In FIG. 3, the carrier sheet sensor 34 is referred to as the CS sensor. The control unit 50 can input detection signals from the first document sensor 31, the document protection sensor 32, the document thickness sensor 33, the carrier sheet sensor 34, the double feed sensor 35, the second document sensor 36, the attitude sensor 37, and the encoder 46. The control unit 50 can control whether the first document sensor 31, the document protection sensor 32, the document thickness sensor 33, the carrier sheet sensor 34, the double feed sensor 35, the second document sensor 36, the attitude sensor 37, and the encoder 46 are enabled or disabled.

[0050] The control unit 50 is connected to the feed motor 44, the transport motor 45, the paper feed tray motor 47, the paper discharge tray motor 48, and the posture drive motor 49. The control unit 50 can output signals to drive the feed motor 44, the transport motor 45, the paper feed tray motor 47, the paper discharge tray motor 48, and the posture drive motor 49. The feed motor 44 may be composed of, for example, a single motor, or may be composed of, for example, multiple motors. The transport motor 45 may be composed of, for example, a single motor, or may be composed of, for example, multiple motors. The paper feed tray motor 47 may be composed of, for example, a single motor, or may be composed of, for example, multiple motors. The paper discharge tray motor 48 may be composed of, for example, a single motor, or may be composed of, for example, multiple motors. The posture drive motor 49 may be composed of, for example, a single motor, or may be composed of, for example, multiple motors.

[0051] The control unit 50 includes a timing generator 55. In Fig. 3, the timing generator 55 is indicated as TG. The timing generator 55 outputs a pulse signal indicating the timing of the reading operation to the reading unit 40.

[0052] The control unit 50 includes an analog front end 56. The analog front end 56 is indicated as AFE in Fig. 3. The analog front end 56 converts the image signal from the image sensor 42 from an analog signal to a digital signal.

[0053] The control unit 50 is connected to the reading unit 40. The control unit 50 can instruct the reading unit 40 to read an image via a timing generator 55. The control unit 50 can input an image signal from the reading unit 40 via an analog front end 56. The control unit 50 can adjust the reading control clock supplied to the timing generator 55 and the analog front end 56. The timing generator 55 and the analog front end 56 are driven at a cycle based on the reading control clock supplied from the control unit 50.

[0054] The control unit 50 has various functional units that function by executing programs. Specifically, the control unit 50 has a main control unit 51, a transport control unit 52, a reading control unit 53, an image processing unit 54, a first wireless communication unit 57, a second wireless communication unit 58, and a wired communication unit 59. The main control unit 51 controls the image reading device 11 in an overall manner.

[0055] The transport control unit 52 controls the transport of the original D along the transport path 18. The transport control unit 52 drives and controls the feed motor 44 and the transport motor 45 according to instructions from the main control unit 51. In particular, the transport control unit 52 drives and controls the feed motor 44 and the transport motor 45 so as to transport the original D at a transport speed corresponding to the reading speed. In this embodiment, ppm (paper per minute), which is the number of standard-sized originals D that can be read in one minute, is used as a unit of reading speed. The reading speed may be specified based on a reading instruction, or may be set in advance in the control unit 50 rather than for each reading instruction.

[0056] As a specific example, when the reading speed is 40 ppm, the transport control unit 52 transports the original D at a higher speed than when the reading speed is 30 ppm. When the reading speed is 30 ppm, the transport control unit 52 transports the original D at a higher speed than when the reading speed is 5 ppm.

[0057] The reading control unit 53 controls the reading unit 40 via the timing generator 55. In particular, the reading control unit 53 controls the light emission of the light source 41. The reading control unit 53 controls the image sensor 42 to perform a reading operation. In this way, the reading control unit 53 controls the reading unit 40 to read the image of the document D.

[0058] Furthermore, the reading control unit 53 causes the reading unit 40 to read an image at a reading speed of 40 ppm, 30 ppm, or 5 ppm. In other words, the reading unit 40 can read an image at any of a plurality of reading speeds including 40 ppm, 30 ppm, and 5 ppm. The reading speed of 5 ppm corresponds to an example of a first reading speed. The reading speed of 40 ppm corresponds to an example of a second reading speed. The reading speed of 30 ppm corresponds to an example of a third reading speed.

[0059] The image processing unit 54 processes image data of the image read by the reading unit 40. In particular, the image processing unit 54 can perform predetermined corrections on the image data of the image read by the reading unit 40. The image processing unit 54 includes an image data storage unit 54A. The image data storage unit 54A can store image data of images read from at least a predetermined number of sheets of original document D. The predetermined number of sheets may be, for example, one sheet or multiple sheets.

[0060] The image processing unit 54 can output the corrected image data to an external device. Examples of external devices include a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a personal computer, a mobile terminal device, and a server device. Communication with the external device may be wired or wireless. Wired communication includes USB communication via a USB cable, but may also include communication via another communication cable such as a LAN (Local Area Network) cable.

[0061] The first wireless communication unit 57 performs control for performing the first wireless communication. The first wireless communication may be, for example, a wireless communication that enables interconnection between USB devices using the IEEE802.11 standard. In other words, the first wireless communication may be, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0062] The second wireless communication unit 58 performs control for performing the second wireless communication. The second wireless communication may be, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark). The second wireless communication has a lower communication speed but consumes less power than the first wireless communication.

[0063] The wired communication unit 59 performs control for performing wired communication. The wired communication may be, for example, communication via a USB cable, or may include communication via another communication cable such as a LAN cable. The wired communication consumes less power than the first wireless communication and the second wireless communication.

[0064] When a reading instruction is input, the image reading device 11 can carry out a reading operation of transporting one or more original documents D placed on the paper feed tray 16 one by one and reading images from the original documents D. In other words, the image reading device 11 can perform a reading operation of reading images from one or more original documents D based on a single reading instruction. The reading instruction may be an instruction from the operation unit 27, an instruction from the touch panel 29, or an instruction from a personal computer or a mobile terminal device.

[0065] The image reading device 11 includes a power supply circuit 60 and a connection unit 61. The power supply circuit 60 supplies power to various components of the image reading device 11 based on power supply power supplied via the connection unit 61. The connection unit 61 can be connected to a power supply source external to the image reading device 11. The control unit 50 is connected to the power supply circuit 60 and the connection unit 61. The power supply circuit 60 is connected to the connection unit 61.

[0066] The power supply circuit 60 includes a capacitor 60A. The capacitor 60A is a power storage device that can store power to be supplied to various components. In particular, the capacitor 60A has a capacity that can compensate for the power consumed by the execution of the polling process in the first wireless communication. That is, the capacitor 60A may include a capacitor with a capacity that can compensate for the power consumed by the execution of the polling process in the first wireless communication. Furthermore, the capacitor 60A has a capacity that can compensate for the power consumed by the execution of the polling process in the second wireless communication. That is, the capacitor 60A may include a capacitor with a capacity that can compensate for the power consumed by the execution of the polling process in the second wireless communication.

[0067] To give a specific example, if 0.25A is consumed for 200μs during the polling process of the first wireless communication, the power consumption will be 50μJ. In this case, the capacitor 60A needs to have a capacitance of approximately 10μF to compensate for the 50μJ power consumption.

[0068] The connection unit 61 includes an AC adapter connection unit 62, a battery connection unit 63, and a USB connection unit 64. An AC adapter cable can be connected to the AC adapter connection unit 62. In other words, the AC adapter connection unit 62 can be connected to an AC adapter as a power supply source via the AC adapter cable. In other words, the AC adapter connection unit 62 can be connected to a commercial power source as a power supply source via the AC adapter cable and the AC adapter.

[0069] A battery cable can be connected to the battery connector 63. That is, the battery connector 63 can be connected to a battery as a power supply source via a battery cable. The battery can supply power as a power supply source, but it can also be rechargeable. The battery connector 63 may be dedicated to the battery, or may be capable of connecting and disconnecting a USB cable.

[0070] A USB cable can be connected to the USB connection unit 64. That is, the USB connection unit 64 can be connected to a USB device as a power supply source via a USB cable. USB devices include, for example, USB memory, personal computers, and mobile terminal devices.

[0071] The control unit 50 performs enumeration with the USB device connected via the USB connection unit 64 and the USB cable. In particular, the control unit 50 performs enumeration with the USB device when the power is turned on. The control unit 50 performs enumeration with the USB device when a change in the connection status with the USB device occurs. Based on the enumeration result, the control unit 50 determines the connection status with the USB device and performs control in accordance with one of the USB standards.

[0072] USB standards include USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-BC (Battery Charging), and USB-PD (Power Delivery). USB standards differ in the power they can supply and the communication speed. For example, USB 2.0 can supply 2.5 W of power. USB 3.0 can supply 4.5 W of power. USB-BC can supply 7.5 W of power. USB-PD can supply 15 W or more of power. In particular, USB-PD can supply 15 W of power, but this is not limited thereto, and power supply may be possible, for example, 27 W, 45 W, 60 W, 100 W, etc. Note that an AC adapter may be capable of supplying 15 W of power, and a battery may be capable of supplying 7.5 W of power.

[0073] Furthermore, USB connector standards include, for example, Type-A, Type-B, Type-C, miniUSB, MicroUSB, etc. Although not limited to, the USB connection unit 64 is preferably Type-C when USB-PD is adopted.

[0074] In this embodiment, when the USB standard is USB 3.0 as a result of enumeration with the USB device, it is said to be connected to a low-power USB device. When the USB standard is USB-BC, it is said to be connected to a medium-power USB device. When the USB standard is USB-PD, it is said to be connected to a high-power USB device. Furthermore, a power range of 4.5W or more and less than 7.5W may be referred to as a low-power range. A power range of 7.5W or more and less than 15W may be referred to as a medium-power range. A power range of 15W or more may be referred to as a high-power range.

[0075] Thus, a low-power USB device can supply power values ​​within the low-power range. A medium-power USB device can supply power values ​​within the medium-power range. A high-power USB device can supply power values ​​within the high-power range. An AC adapter can supply power values ​​within the high-power range. A battery can supply power values ​​within the medium-power range.

[0076] A low-power USB device corresponds to an example of a third device. A high-power USB device and an AC adapter correspond to an example of a second device. A medium-power USB device and a battery correspond to an example of a first device. The low-power range corresponds to an example of a third power range. The high-power range corresponds to an example of a second power range. The medium-power range corresponds to an example of a first power range.

[0077] The control unit 50 monitors the connection status of the connection unit 61 with the power supply circuit 60. More specifically, the control unit 50 monitors whether an AC adapter is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 monitors whether a battery is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 monitors whether a USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 can also monitor the charge level of a battery connected to the power supply circuit 60.

[0078] The control unit 50 determines which of the power supply sources connected to the connection unit 61 is to be used, based on the connection state of the connection unit 61 relative to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 then instructs the power supply circuit 60 to select the determined power supply source. The power supply circuit 60 supplies power to various components of the image reading device 11 based on the power supply power from the power supply source instructed by the control unit 50.

[0079] In particular, the control unit 50 determines the power supply source in accordance with a predetermined priority order based on the connection status. More specifically, the control unit 50 determines the power supply source in the following order of priority: AC adapter, high-power USB device, battery, medium-power USB device, and low-power USB device.

[0080] As a specific example, when an AC adapter is connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 determines the AC adapter as the power supply source. More specifically, when the AC adapter is connected to a high-power USB device, the control unit 50 determines the AC adapter as the power supply source. When the AC adapter is connected to a medium-power USB device, the control unit 50 determines the AC adapter as the power supply source. When the AC adapter is connected to a low-power USB device, the control unit 50 determines the AC adapter as the power supply source. When the AC adapter is connected to a battery, the control unit 50 determines the AC adapter as the power supply source.

[0081] In a connection state where the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a high-power-supply USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 uses the high-power-supply USB device as a power supply source. In a connection state where the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a medium-power-supply USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 uses the medium-power-supply USB device as a power supply source. In a connection state where the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a low-power-supply USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 uses the low-power-supply USB device as a power supply source.

[0082] When an AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a high-power-supply USB device and a battery are connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 determines the high-power-supply USB device as the power supply source. When an AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a medium-power-supply USB device and a battery are connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 determines the battery as the power supply source. When an AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a low-power-supply USB device and a battery are connected to the power supply circuit 60, the control unit 50 determines the battery as the power supply source.

[0083] Furthermore, the control unit 50 does not need to issue an instruction to change the power supply source if the power range of the power supply source changes to a higher value while an image is being read based on a read instruction. The control unit 50 can issue an instruction to change the power supply source if the power range of the power supply source changes to a lower value while an image is being read based on a read instruction. The control unit 50 can issue an instruction to change the power supply source if the power range of the power supply source does not change while an image is being read based on a read instruction. The control unit 50 can issue an instruction to change the power supply source based on the connection status of the AC adapter, battery, and USB device when an image is not being read based on a read instruction.

[0084] When images are read from multiple documents D based on a single read instruction, the period during which an image is being read based on a read instruction refers to the period from when reading of the image from the first document D among the multiple documents D starts until reading of the images from the multiple documents D is completed. Therefore, the period during which an image is being read based on a read instruction includes, within the control period based on the read instruction, a read period during which the image is actually being read by the reading unit 40 and a non-read period during which the image is not actually being read by the reading unit 40.

[0085] For example, when a connection state changes from one in which an AC adapter and a high-power USB device are connected to one in which the AC adapter is not connected, the power range of the power supply source does not change.When a connection state changes from one in which a battery and a medium-power USB device are connected to one in which the battery is not connected, the power range of the power supply source does not change.

[0086] When the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter and a medium-power USB device are connected to one in which the AC adapter is not connected, the power range of the power supply source changes to a lower level. When the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter and a battery are connected to one in which the AC adapter is not connected, the power range of the power supply source changes to a lower level. When the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter and a low-power USB device are connected to one in which the AC adapter is not connected, the power range of the power supply source changes to a lower level.

[0087] When a connection state changes from a medium-power USB device to an AC adapter, the power range of the power supply source changes upward. When a connection state changes from a low-power USB device to an AC adapter, the power range of the power supply source changes upward.

[0088] The control unit 50 can control the device to one of a plurality of modes based on the specified power supply source. In other words, the control unit 50 can control the device to one of a plurality of modes based on the connection status with the AC adapter, battery, and USB device.

[0089] The multiple modes are modes that have different power consumption as the image reading device 11. The multiple modes include a low-output mode, a medium-output mode, and a high-output mode. The medium-output mode is a mode that consumes less power than the high-output mode. The low-output mode is a mode that consumes less power than the medium-output mode.

[0090] The high-power mode is a controllable mode when the power source is either an AC adapter or a high-power USB device, the medium-power mode is a controllable mode when the power source is either a battery or a medium-power USB device, and the low-power mode is a controllable mode when the power source is a low-power USB device.

[0091] In other words, the high-power mode is a controllable mode when a high-power USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The high-power mode is a controllable mode when an AC adapter is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The medium-power mode is a controllable mode when a medium-power USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The medium-power mode is a controllable mode when a battery is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The low-power mode is a controllable mode when a low-power USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The low-power mode is an example of the third mode. The high-power mode is an example of the second mode. The medium-power mode is an example of the first mode.

[0092] Specifically, the control unit 50 controls the mode to the high output mode when the AC adapter and a high power supply USB device are connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 controls the mode to the high output mode when the AC adapter and a medium power supply USB device are connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 controls the mode to the high output mode when the AC adapter and a low power supply USB device are connected to the power supply circuit 60.

[0093] The control unit 50 controls the power supply circuit 60 to the high output mode when the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a high power-supply USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 controls the power supply circuit 60 to the medium output mode when the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a medium power-supply USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 controls the power supply circuit 60 to the low output mode when the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a low power-supply USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60.

[0094] The control unit 50 controls the power supply circuit 60 to the high output mode when the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a high power-supply USB device and a battery are connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 controls the power supply circuit 60 to the medium output mode when the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a medium power-supply USB device and a battery are connected to the power supply circuit 60. The control unit 50 controls the power supply circuit 60 to the medium output mode when the AC adapter is not connected to the power supply circuit 60 and a low power-supply USB device and a battery are connected to the power supply circuit 60.

[0095] <Mode control details> Here, the control details for each mode will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in Figure 4, each of the multiple modes corresponds to a different control content. Control is performed according to the control content that corresponds to the mode that is set among the multiple modes. In Figure 4, valid information is indicated by "○" and invalid information is indicated by "×".

[0096] Specifically, the control contents corresponding to each of the multiple modes include the control contents of the control unit 50, the reading speed, and the reading control clock. The control contents corresponding to each of the multiple modes include the document type, carrier sheet, double feed detection, document protection, posture drive, and tray drive. The control contents corresponding to each of the multiple modes include the communication method, LCD display, touch panel, USB memory, and sensor time-sharing control.

[0097] The control by the control unit 50 is such that in the medium output mode, power consumption is lower than in the high output mode, and in the low output mode, power consumption is lower than in the medium output mode.

[0098] In particular, the control contents of the control unit 50 include adjusting the operating frequency of the control unit 50. To cite a specific example, the operating frequency of the control unit 50 is set to be lower in the medium output mode than in the high output mode. The operating frequency of the control unit 50 is set to be lower in the low output mode than in the medium output mode.

[0099] The control contents of the control unit 50 include whether to enable or disable the functions of the control unit 50. In the medium output mode, the functions of the control unit 50 are set to be more disabled than in the high output mode. In the low output mode, the functions of the control unit 50 are set to be more disabled than in the medium output mode.

[0100] Specifically, when the control unit 50 has multiple CPUs, the functions of the control unit 50 include the functions of at least one of the multiple CPUs. The functions of the control unit 50 include a GPU function related to image processing. The functions of the control unit 50 include a function related to control of a storage medium such as a flash memory. The functions of the control unit 50 include a function related to image processing of an image read by the reading unit 40. The functions of the control unit 50 include a function related to communication using infrared rays, etc.

[0101] In terms of reading speed, in high output mode, images can be read at 40 ppm, 30 ppm, and 5 ppm. In terms of reading speed, in medium output mode, images cannot be read at 40 ppm, but can be read at 30 ppm and 5 ppm. In terms of reading speed, in low output mode, images cannot be read at 40 ppm and 30 ppm, but can be read at 5 ppm. Lower reading speeds consume less power.

[0102] In this way, the control unit 50 can cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 40 ppm in the high-power mode. The control unit 50 can cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 30 ppm in the high-power mode. The control unit 50 can cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 5 ppm in the high-power mode.

[0103] In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 does not cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 40 ppm. In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 30 ppm. In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 5 ppm.

[0104] In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 40 ppm. In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 30 ppm. In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 can cause the reading unit 40 to read an image at 5 ppm.

[0105] The read control clock has a lower cycle in the medium output mode and low output mode than in the high output mode. The read control clock is a clock that specifies the control cycle of the reading unit 40. More specifically, the read control clock is a clock that specifies the control cycle for the timing generator 55 and the analog front end 56. A lower read control clock reduces power consumption.

[0106] In the high-power mode, the control unit 50 outputs a read control clock having a normal cycle to the timing generator 55 and the analog front end 56. In the medium-power mode and the low-power mode, the control unit 50 outputs a read control clock having a cycle slower than the normal cycle to the timing generator 55 and the analog front end 56.

[0107] The document types include thin paper documents D and thick paper documents D. Thick paper documents D require a greater conveying force from the conveying unit 21 than thin paper documents D. For this reason, thick paper documents D impose a greater control load on the conveying unit 21 than thin paper documents D, resulting in greater power consumption.

[0108] In terms of document type, in the high output mode, images can be read from both thin paper documents D and thick paper documents D. In the medium output mode and low output mode, images can be read from thin paper documents D, but images cannot be read from thick paper documents D.

[0109] In the high output mode, the control unit 50 causes the transport unit 21 to transport the document D and the reading unit 40 to read an image from the document D, regardless of the type of the document D. In the medium output mode and the low output mode, when the control unit 50 determines, based on the detection signal from the document thickness sensor 33, that a thin document D is being transported, the control unit 50 causes the transport unit 21 to transport the thin document D and the reading unit 40 to read an image from the thin document D. In the medium output mode and the low output mode, when the control unit 50 determines, based on the detection signal from the document thickness sensor 33, that a thick document D is being transported, the control unit 50 stops transporting the thick document D and reading an image from the thick document D.

[0110] For the carrier sheet, the carrier sheet transport and the carrier sheet sensor 34 are enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode, and are disabled in the low output mode. The carrier sheet requires a greater transport force from the transport unit 21 than the thin paper document D. Therefore, the control load on the transport unit 21 is greater for the carrier sheet than for the thin paper document D, resulting in greater power consumption. Disabling the carrier sheet sensor 34 reduces power consumption.

[0111] In the high output mode and the medium output mode, when the control unit 50 determines that the carrier sheet needs to be conveyed based on a detection signal from the document thickness sensor 33, it causes the conveying unit 21 to convey the carrier sheet and causes the reading unit 40 to read an image from the carrier sheet. In the high output mode and the medium output mode, the control unit 50 controls the carrier sheet sensor 34 to be enabled. In the low output mode, when the control unit 50 determines that the carrier sheet needs to be conveyed based on a detection signal from the document thickness sensor 33, it causes the control unit 50 to stop conveying the carrier sheet. In the low output mode, the control unit 50 controls the carrier sheet sensor 34 to be disabled. In other words, in the low output mode, the control unit 50 does not cause the conveying unit 21 to convey the carrier sheet, but in the high output mode and the medium output mode, it can cause the conveying unit 21 to convey the carrier sheet.

[0112] For detecting double feed, the double feed sensor 35 is enabled in the high output mode, and disabled in the medium output mode and low output mode. The control unit 50 controls the double feed sensor 35 to be enabled in the high output mode, and to be disabled in the medium output mode and the low output mode.

[0113] For document protection, the document protection sensor 32 is enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode, and disabled in the low output mode. Disabling the document protection sensor 32 reduces power consumption.

[0114] The control unit 50 controls the document protection sensor 32 to be enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode, and to be disabled in the low output mode.

[0115] The attitude drive is the drive of the attitude drive motor 49 to change the attitude of the housing 12. As for attitude drive, the drive of the attitude drive motor 49 is enabled in the high power mode and the medium power mode, and the drive of the attitude drive motor 49 is disabled in the low power mode. Disabling the drive of the attitude drive motor 49 reduces power consumption.

[0116] In the low power mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the attitude drive motor 49. In the high power mode and the medium power mode, the control unit 50 can drive the attitude drive motor 49.

[0117] The tray drive includes the drive of the paper feed tray motor 47 and the drive of the paper discharge tray motor 48. As for the tray drive, the tray drive is enabled in the high output mode, and disabled in the medium output mode and the low output mode. Disabling the tray drive reduces power consumption.

[0118] In the medium output mode and the low output mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the paper feed tray motor 47. In the high output mode, the control unit 50 can drive the paper feed tray motor 47.

[0119] In the medium output mode and the low output mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the paper discharge tray motor 48. In the high output mode, the control unit 50 can drive the paper discharge tray motor 48.

[0120] The communication methods include a first wireless communication, a second wireless communication, and a wired communication. As for the wired communication, the output of image data via the wired communication is enabled in the high output mode, the medium output mode, and the low output mode.

[0121] As the first wireless communication, in the high output mode, the output of image data via the first wireless communication is enabled. As the first wireless communication, in the low output mode, the output of image data via the first wireless communication is disabled. As the first wireless communication, in the medium output mode, the output of image data via the first wireless communication is disabled while an image is being read based on a read instruction, but when an image is not being read based on a read instruction, the output of image data via the first wireless communication is enabled. By disabling the first wireless communication, power consumption is reduced. In particular, by disabling the first wireless communication while an image is being read based on a read instruction, power consumption is reduced.

[0122] As for the second wireless communication, in the high output mode and the medium output mode, the output of image data via the second wireless communication is enabled. As for the second wireless communication, in the low output mode, the output of image data via the second wireless communication is disabled while an image is being read based on a read instruction, but the output of image data via the second wireless communication is enabled when an image is not being read based on a read instruction. By disabling the second wireless communication, power consumption is reduced. In particular, by disabling the second wireless communication while an image is being read based on a read instruction, power consumption is reduced.

[0123] The control unit 50 controls the output of image data via wired communication to be valid when the connection state allows wired communication in the high output mode, medium output mode, and low output mode. This allows the control unit 50 to output image data via wired communication in the high output mode, medium output mode, and low output mode.

[0124] In the high-power mode, when the first wireless communication is enabled and the connection state is such that the first wireless communication is possible, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the first wireless communication to be valid. This allows the control unit 50 to output image data via the first wireless communication in the high-power mode.

[0125] In this embodiment, the control unit 50 executes a polling process for the first wireless communication at predetermined intervals. By executing the polling process for the first wireless communication, the control unit 50 can determine whether or not the connection state with the external device is such that the first wireless communication is possible. In other words, the control unit 50 can execute the polling process to recognize the first wireless communication as a valid connection state.

[0126] In the high output mode and the medium output mode, when the connection state allows the second wireless communication, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the second wireless communication to be valid. This allows the control unit 50 to output image data via the second wireless communication in the high output mode and the medium output mode.

[0127] In this embodiment, the control unit 50 executes a polling process for the second wireless communication at predetermined intervals. By executing the polling process for the second wireless communication, the control unit 50 can determine whether or not the connection state with the external device is such that the second wireless communication is possible. In other words, the control unit 50 can execute the polling process to recognize the second wireless communication as a valid connection state.

[0128] In the medium output mode, when the connection state allows the first wireless communication, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the first wireless communication to be enabled when an image is not being read based on a read instruction. This allows the control unit 50 to output image data via the first wireless communication when an image is not being read based on a read instruction in the medium output mode. In the medium output mode, when the connection state allows the first wireless communication, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the first wireless communication to be disabled when an image is being read based on a read instruction. This allows the control unit 50 not to output image data via the first wireless communication when an image is being read based on a read instruction in the medium output mode.

[0129] In the low-power mode, when the connection state allows the second wireless communication, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the second wireless communication to be enabled when an image is not being read based on a read instruction. This allows the control unit 50 to output image data via the second wireless communication when an image is not being read based on a read instruction in the low-power mode. In the low-power mode, when the connection state allows the second wireless communication, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the second wireless communication to be disabled when an image is being read based on a read instruction. This allows the control unit 50 to not output image data via the second wireless communication when an image is being read based on a read instruction in the medium-power mode.

[0130] In the low power mode, when the first wireless communication is enabled and the connection state is established, the control unit 50 controls the output of image data via the first wireless communication to be disabled. As a result, the control unit 50 does not allow the image data to be output via the first wireless communication in the low power mode.

[0131] Furthermore, when multiple types of communication methods are available, the control unit 50 determines the communication method in accordance with a predetermined priority order for the communication methods. Specifically, the control unit 50 determines the communication method in the order of priority: wired communication, second wireless communication, and first wireless communication.

[0132] Specifically, when the connection state is such that wired communication is not enabled and the first wireless communication and the second wireless communication are enabled, the control unit 50 determines the second wireless communication as the communication method. Also, when the connection state is such that second wireless communication is not enabled and wired communication and the first wireless communication are enabled, the control unit 50 determines the wired communication as the communication method. When the connection state is such that wired communication, the first wireless communication, and the second wireless communication are enabled, the control unit 50 determines the wired communication as the communication method.

[0133] To give a specific example, in high output mode, when the first wireless communication, the second wireless communication, and the wired communication are in a valid connection state, the control unit 50 outputs image data via wired communication in priority over the first wireless communication and the second wireless communication.

[0134] In other words, the control unit 50 can execute a reading process, a first wireless output process, a second wireless output process, and a wired output process. The reading process is a process in which the conveying unit 21 conveys the document D and the reading unit 40 reads an image from the document D. The first wireless output process is a process in which image data is output to an external device via a first wireless communication. The second wireless output process is a process in which image data is output to an external device via a second wireless communication. The wired output process is a process in which image data is output to an external device via a wired communication.

[0135] Specifically, in the high-power mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process, the second wireless output process, and the wired output process either before or after the reading process is completed. In particular, in the high-power mode, when the first wireless communication, the second wireless communication, and the wired communication are in a valid connection state, the control unit 50 can execute the wired output process with priority over the first wireless output process and the second wireless output process. Furthermore, in the high-power mode, when the first wireless communication and the second wireless communication are in a valid connection state, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process with priority over the first wireless output process.

[0136] In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process and the wired output process either before or after the end of the reading process. On the other hand, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after the end of the reading process without executing the first wireless output process while the reading process is being executed and before the end of the reading process.

[0137] In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 can execute the wired output process without executing the first wireless output process, whether before or after the end of the reading process. On the other hand, in the low-power mode, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process after the end of the reading process without executing the second wireless output process while the reading process is being executed and before the end of the reading process.

[0138] As for the liquid crystal display, the liquid crystal display unit 30 is enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode, and is disabled in the low output mode. Disabling the liquid crystal display unit 30 reduces power consumption.

[0139] The control unit 50 controls the liquid crystal display unit 30 to be enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode. This allows the control unit 50 to display images on the liquid crystal display unit 30 in the high output mode and the medium output mode. The control unit 50 controls the liquid crystal display unit 30 to be disabled in the low output mode. This prevents the control unit 50 from displaying images on the liquid crystal display unit 30 in the low output mode.

[0140] As a touch panel, the touch panel 29 is enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode, and is disabled in the low output mode. Disabling the touch panel 29 reduces power consumption.

[0141] The control unit 50 controls the touch panel 29 to be enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode. This allows the control unit 50 to input signals from the touch panel 29 in the high output mode and the medium output mode. The control unit 50 controls the touch panel 29 to be disabled in the low output mode. This prevents the control unit 50 from inputting signals from the touch panel 29 in the low output mode.

[0142] As for the USB memory, this indicates whether storage of image data to the USB memory is enabled or disabled when the USB memory is connected via the USB connection unit 64. As for the USB memory, storage of image data to the USB memory is enabled in the high output mode, and disabled in the medium output mode and low output mode. Disabling storage of image data to the USB memory reduces power consumption. Furthermore, in this embodiment, storing image data to the USB memory consumes more power than outputting image data via wired communication.

[0143] The control unit 50 controls the storage of image data in the USB memory to be enabled in the high output mode. This allows the control unit 50 to store image data in the USB memory in the high output mode. The control unit 50 controls the storage of image data in the USB memory to be disabled in the medium output mode and low output mode. This prevents the control unit 50 from storing image data in the USB memory in the medium output mode and low output mode.

[0144] The time-sharing control of the sensor is disabled in the high output mode and enabled in the medium output mode and low output mode. The time-sharing control is a control that switches between an enabled period in which the sensor is enabled and an disabled period in which the sensor is disabled.

[0145] The control unit 50 does not perform time-division control on sensors that are controlled as valid in the high output mode. The control unit 50 can perform time-division control on sensors that are controlled as valid in the medium output mode and low output mode.

[0146] <Sensor time-sharing control> Here, the sensor time-division control will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows a specific example in which the time-division control is performed on the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor.

[0147] As shown in FIG. 5, at the timing indicated by reference symbol T11, the first sensor is enabled, and the second and third sensors are disabled. When time t1 has elapsed from the timing indicated by reference symbol T11, at the timing indicated by reference symbol T12, the second sensor is enabled, and the first and third sensors are disabled. Time t1 is the time obtained by dividing the control cycle in which the sensors are enabled by the number of sensors. When time t1 has elapsed from the timing indicated by reference symbol T12, at the timing indicated by reference symbol T13, the third sensor is enabled, and the first and second sensors are disabled.

[0148] When time t1 has passed from the timing indicated by reference symbol T13, the first sensor becomes enabled and the second and third sensors become disabled at the timing indicated by reference symbol T21. When time t1 has passed from the timing indicated by reference symbol T21, the second sensor becomes enabled and the first and third sensors become disabled at the timing indicated by reference symbol T22. When time t1 has passed from the timing indicated by reference symbol T22, the third sensor becomes enabled and the first and second sensors become disabled at the timing indicated by reference symbol T23.

[0149] By repeatedly performing this control, the control cycle in which the sensor is enabled is switched between an enabled period in which the sensor is enabled and an disabled period in which the sensor is disabled, so as to divide time. In this way, time-division control of the sensors is performed, thereby reducing power consumption. In addition, the timing at which the sensors are enabled is adjusted so that the enabled periods of each sensor do not overlap. In this way, time-division control of the sensors is performed, thereby reducing instantaneous power consumption.

[0150] <Reading process and output process> Next, the reading process and the output process will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In particular, the reading process and the first wireless output process in the high output mode and the medium output mode will be mainly described.

[0151] 6, in the high-output mode, the control unit 50 executes a reading process to read images from two sheets of original document D at 40 ppm based on a reading instruction. In this case, the control unit 50 starts the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T31. The control unit 50 ends the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T32.

[0152] At the timing indicated by reference symbol T33, the control unit 50 starts the reading process of reading an image from the second document D. At the timing indicated by reference symbol T34, the control unit 50 ends the reading process of reading an image from the second document D.

[0153] On the other hand, when the control unit 50 is ready to output the image data of the first document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T41, the control unit 50 starts the first wireless output process to output the image data of the first document D, even after starting the reading process to read an image from the second document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process to output the image data of the first document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T42.

[0154] When the image data of the second document D can be output at the timing indicated by reference symbol T43, the control unit 50 starts a first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D, even after the reading process for reading the image from the second document D has ended. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T44.

[0155] In this way, in the high output mode, when images are read from a plurality of original documents D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process either before or after the end of the reading process that reads images from the plurality of original documents D. That is, in the high output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process either before or after the end of the reading process.

[0156] Next, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 executes a reading process to read images from two sheets of original document D at 30 ppm based on the reading instruction. In this case, the control unit 50 starts the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T51. The control unit 50 ends the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T52.

[0157] At the timing indicated by reference symbol T53, the control unit 50 starts the reading process of reading an image from the second document D. At the timing indicated by reference symbol T54, the control unit 50 ends the reading process of reading an image from the second document D.

[0158] On the other hand, when the image data of the first document D becomes ready to be output at the timing indicated by the reference symbol T61, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the reading process for reading the image from the second document D has not yet been completed. If the control unit 50 determines that the reading process for reading the image from the second document D has not yet been completed, the control unit 50 puts the execution of the first wireless output process on hold without starting the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the first document D.

[0159] When the control unit 50 determines at the timing indicated by reference symbol T62 that the reading process for reading an image from the second document D has been completed, it starts a first wireless output process for outputting image data of the first document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting image data of the first document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T63.

[0160] After the image data of the second document D becomes ready to be output at the timing indicated by reference symbol T64, if the reading process for reading the image from the second document D has been completed, the control unit 50 starts the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T65.

[0161] In this way, in the medium output mode, when images are read from multiple sheets of original document D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the first wireless output process before completion of the reading process that reads images from multiple sheets of original document D. Then, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after completion of the reading process that reads images from multiple sheets of original document D. That is, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after completion of the reading process, without executing the first wireless output process before completion of the reading process.

[0162] Similarly, in the low-power mode, when the control unit 50 reads images from multiple sheets of original document D based on an input reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the second wireless output process before the end of the reading process in which images are read from multiple sheets of original document D. Then, in the low-power mode, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process after the end of the reading process in which images are read from multiple sheets of original document D. In other words, in the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not execute the second wireless output process before the end of the reading process, but can execute the second wireless output process after the reading process is completed. In other words, in the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not execute the first wireless output process, but can execute the second wireless output process.

[0163] <Startup mode setting process> The startup mode setting process will now be described with reference to Fig. 7. The startup mode setting process is called when the image reading device 11 is started up, after the initial setting process has been completed.

[0164] 7, in step S11, the control unit 50 executes an AC adapter identification process. In this process, the control unit 50 identifies whether or not an AC adapter is connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S12.

[0165] In step S12, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an AC adapter is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that an AC adapter is connected, the process proceeds to step S20. If the control unit 50 determines that an AC adapter is not connected, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0166] In step S13, the control unit 50 executes a battery identification process. In this process, which will be described in detail later, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a battery is connected to the power supply circuit 60. In particular, the control unit 50 determines that a battery is connected to the power supply circuit 60 when a battery is physically connected to the power supply circuit 60 and is effectively connected to the power supply circuit 60. Thereafter, the fact that a battery is physically connected to the power supply circuit 60 and is effectively connected to the power supply circuit 60 may simply be referred to as a battery being connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S14.

[0167] In step S14, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a battery is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that a battery is connected, the process proceeds to step S21. If the control unit 50 determines that a battery is not connected, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0168] In step S15, the control unit 50 executes a USB identification process. In this process, the control unit 50 determines whether a USB device is connected to the power supply circuit 60 and the USB standard. In particular, the control unit 50 performs enumeration with the USB device in response to power-on, a process separate from the startup mode setting process. In this process, the control unit 50 performs enumeration with the USB device in response to a change in the connection status with the USB device in response to a change in the connection status with the USB device. In this process, the control unit 50 determines the connection status with the USB device based on the enumeration result. In this way, the control unit 50 determines whether a USB device is connected and the USB standard. When this process ends, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S16.

[0169] In step S16, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a high-power-supply USB device is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that a high-power-supply USB device is connected, the process proceeds to step S20. If the control unit 50 determines that a high-power-supply USB device is not connected, the process proceeds to step S17.

[0170] In step S17, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a medium power-supply USB device is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that a medium power-supply USB device is connected, the process proceeds to step S21. If the control unit 50 determines that a medium power-supply USB device is not connected, the process proceeds to step S18.

[0171] In step S18, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a low-power-supply USB device is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that a low-power-supply USB device is connected, the process proceeds to step S22. If the control unit 50 determines that a low-power-supply USB device is not connected, the process proceeds to step S19. In step S19, the control unit 50 performs a shutdown.

[0172] In step S20, the control unit 50 executes a high-power mode setting process to set the high-power mode as information indicating the mode. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the startup mode setting process.

[0173] In step S21, the control unit 50 executes a medium output mode setting process to set the medium output mode as information indicating the mode. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the startup mode setting process.

[0174] In step S22, the control unit 50 executes a low-power mode setting process to set the low-power mode as information indicating the mode. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the startup mode setting process.

[0175] <Battery identification processing> Next, the battery identification process will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The battery identification process is called in step S13 of the startup mode setting process in Fig. 7, step S43 of the normal mode setting process in Fig. 9, and step S61 of the charge control process in Fig. 11.

[0176] 8, in step S31, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a battery is physically connected to the power supply circuit 60. If the control unit 50 determines that a battery is physically connected, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S33. If the control unit 50 determines that a battery is not physically connected, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S32.

[0177] In step S32, the control unit 50 executes a battery disconnection setting process to disconnect the battery. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the battery identification process. In this way, the control unit 50 sets the battery to disconnection when the battery is not physically connected.

[0178] In step S33, the control unit 50 determines whether the battery is set as an active connection. As will be described in detail later, when a condition regarding the battery charge amount is met, the control unit 50 determines that the connection state is such that power can be supplied from the battery, and sets the battery as an active connection. Note that the control unit 50 may set the battery as an inactive connection in the initial setting process if the battery is in a physically connected connection state at startup. The control unit 50 may set the battery as an inactive connection if the battery changes from a physically unconnected state to a physically connected state. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery is set as an active connection, it proceeds to step S34. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery is not set as an active connection, it proceeds to step S36.

[0179] In step S34, the control unit 50 determines whether the battery's charge level is equal to or lower than a lower limit. The lower limit is a threshold value that prevents power from being supplied from the battery. The lower limit may be, for example, 20% of the fully charged level, but is not limited to this. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery's charge level is equal to or lower than the lower limit, it proceeds to step S35. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery's charge level is not equal to or lower than the lower limit, it terminates the battery identification process. In this way, when the battery is physically connected and set as an active connection, the control unit 50 continues to set the battery as active if it determines that the battery's charge level is not equal to or lower than the lower limit.

[0180] In step S35, the control unit 50 executes a battery invalid setting process to set the battery as an invalid connection. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the battery identification process. In this way, when the control unit 50 determines that the battery's charge level is equal to or less than the lower limit in a state in which the battery is physically connected and the battery is set as an valid connection, the control unit 50 sets the battery as an invalid connection.

[0181] In step S36, the control unit 50 determines whether the battery charge is equal to or less than the upper limit. The upper limit is a threshold value at which power can be supplied from the battery. The upper limit may be, for example, 80% of the fully charged amount, but is not limited to this. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery charge is equal to or greater than the upper limit, it proceeds to step S37. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery charge is not equal to or greater than the upper limit, it terminates the battery identification process. In this way, if the control unit 50 determines that the battery charge is not equal to or greater than the upper limit when the battery is physically connected and the battery is set as an invalid connection, it continues the state in which the battery is set as invalid.

[0182] In step S37, the control unit 50 executes a battery valid setting process to set the battery as a valid connection. In this way, when the control unit 50 determines that the battery's charge level is equal to or greater than the upper limit in a state in which the battery is physically connected and the battery is set as an invalid connection, the control unit 50 sets the battery as a valid connection. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the battery identification process.

[0183] Here, a specific example of control based on the battery charge level will be given. In a connected state where a battery is physically connected and a medium power supply USB device is also connected, when the battery charge level is below the lower limit, the control unit 50 controls the device to use the medium power supply device instead of the battery as the power supply source and switches to medium output mode. On the other hand, when the battery charge level is above the upper limit, the control unit 50 controls the device to use the battery as the power supply source and switches to medium output mode.

[0184] In addition, in a connected state where a battery is physically connected and a low-power USB device is also connected, when the charge level of the battery is equal to or lower than the lower limit, the control unit 50 controls the device to use the low-power USB device as the power supply source and enters low-output mode.On the other hand, when the charge level of the battery is equal to or higher than the upper limit, the control unit 50 controls the device to use the battery as the power supply source and enters medium-output mode.

[0185] <Normal mode setting process> Next, the normal mode setting process will be described with reference to Fig. 9. The normal mode setting process is a process that is called at predetermined intervals after the image reading device 11 is started up.

[0186] 9, in step S41, the control unit 50 executes a mode identification process. In this process, the control unit 50 reads information indicating the set mode and identifies the current mode. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S42.

[0187] In step S42, the control unit 50 executes the AC adapter identification process in the same manner as in step S11 of Fig. 7. In this process, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an AC adapter is connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S43.

[0188] In step S43, the control unit 50 executes a battery identification process similar to step S13 in Fig. 7. In this process, the control unit 50 identifies whether or not a battery is connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S44.

[0189] In step S44, the control unit 50 executes the USB identification process in the same manner as in step S15 of Fig. 7. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S45.

[0190] In step S45, the control unit 50 executes a control table reference process. In this process, the control unit 50 refers to a control table TA shown in FIG. 10. The control table TA is a table showing control contents corresponding to the current mode and connection state. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S46.

[0191] <Control table TA> Here, the control table TA will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the control table TA is a table relating to modes and power supply sources. The control table TA is stored in memory. The control table TA is a table in which the current mode and reading control correspond. The control table TA is a table in which the current mode and reading control correspond to the connection state, control content, and power supply source. In FIG. 10, valid information is indicated by "○", invalid information by "×", and optional information by "-".

[0192] Specifically, the current mode includes a high-power mode, a medium-power mode, and a low-power mode. The current reading control includes information indicating that an image is being read based on a reading instruction, information indicating that an image is not being read based on a reading instruction, and information indicating any mode.

[0193] The connection status includes the connection status of an AC adapter, battery, high-power USB device, medium-power USB device, and low-power USB device. The control content includes control content related to reading control, control content related to system control, and control content related to mode. The control content related to reading control includes information indicating the suspension of image reading, information indicating the continuation of image reading, and information indicating optional. The control content related to system control includes shutdown, restart, and continue. The control content related to mode includes high-power mode, medium-power mode, and low-power mode. The power supply source includes an AC adapter, battery, high-power USB device, medium-power USB device, and low-power USB device.

[0194] To give a specific example, in high-power mode, if either the AC adapter or a high-power USB device is connected, control continues. As a result, high-power mode continues to be controlled. Also, either the AC adapter or the high-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0195] In high-power mode, if the AC adapter and high-power USB device are not connected and at least one of the battery and medium-power USB device is connected, the restart condition is met. In particular, if an image is being read based on a read command, the restart condition is met after the image reading stop condition is met. As a result, after restarting, the device is controlled to medium-power mode. In addition, either the battery or the medium-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0196] In high-power mode and medium-power mode, if the AC adapter, high-power USB device, battery, and medium-power USB device are not connected, and a low-power USB device is connected, the restart condition is met. In particular, if an image is being read based on a read command, the restart condition is met after the image reading cancellation condition is met. As a result, the device is controlled to low-power mode after restarting. In addition, the low-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0197] In medium power mode, if the AC adapter and high-power USB device are not connected and at least one of the battery and medium-power USB device is connected, control continues. As a result, medium power mode continues to be controlled. Also, either the battery or the medium-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0198] In medium output mode and low output mode, if either the AC adapter or a high-power USB device is connected, the restart condition is met. In particular, if an image is being read based on a read command, the image reading stop condition is not met, and the restart condition is met after the image reading is completed. As a result, after restarting, the device is controlled to high output mode. In addition, either the AC adapter or a high-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0199] In medium power mode, if the AC adapter, high-power USB device, battery, and medium-power USB device are not connected, and a low-power USB device is connected, the restart condition is met. In particular, if an image is being read based on a read command, the restart condition is met after the image reading cancellation condition is met. As a result, after restarting, the device is controlled to low power mode. In addition, the low-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0200] In low-power mode, if the AC adapter, high-power USB device, battery, and medium-power USB device are not connected, and a low-power USB device is connected, control continues. As a result, low-power mode continues to be controlled. In addition, the low-power USB device continues to be the power source.

[0201] In low-power mode, if the AC adapter and high-power USB device are not connected, and at least one of the battery and medium-power USB device is connected, the restart condition is met. In particular, if an image is being read based on a read command, the image reading cancellation condition is not met, and the restart condition is met after the image reading is completed. As a result, after restarting, the device is controlled to medium-power mode. In addition, either the battery or the medium-power USB device becomes the power supply source.

[0202] In high-power mode, medium-power mode, and low-power mode, if the AC adapter, battery, high-power USB device, medium-power USB device, or low-power USB device is no longer connected, a shutdown condition will be met.

[0203] <Normal mode setting process> Returning to the description of the normal mode setting process in FIG. 9, in step S46, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the shutdown condition is met based on the reference result of the control table TA. The shutdown condition is met in all modes when the AC adapter, battery, high-power USB device, medium-power USB device, and low-power USB device are all disconnected. If the control unit 50 determines that the shutdown condition is not met, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S48. If the control unit 50 determines that the shutdown condition is met, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S47. In step S47, the control unit 50 performs shutdown. In this case, the control unit 50 may stop outputting image data if image data is being output via various communication methods.

[0204] In step S48, the control unit 50 determines whether the reading stop condition is met based on the reference result of the control table TA. The reading stop condition is met when a transition to a low power consumption mode occurs while an image is being read based on a reading instruction. More specifically, the reading stop condition is met when a transition from high output mode to medium output mode or low output mode occurs while an image is being read based on a reading instruction. The reading stop condition is met when a transition from medium output mode to low output mode occurs while an image is being read based on a reading instruction. If the control unit 50 determines that the reading stop condition is met, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S49. If the control unit 50 determines that the reading stop condition is not met, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S51.

[0205] In step S49, the control unit 50 executes a reading stop process. In this process, the control unit 50 controls the reading unit 40 to stop image reading based on the reading instruction. When this process ends, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S50.

[0206] In step S50, the control unit 50 executes a paper discharge control process. In this process, the control unit 50 controls the conveying unit 21 to discharge the document D being conveyed. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S51.

[0207] In step S51, the control unit 50 determines whether the restart condition is met based on the reference result of the control table TA. The restart condition is met when a mode transition is required. If the control unit 50 determines that the restart condition is not met, it ends the normal mode setting process. If the control unit 50 determines that the restart condition is met, it proceeds to step S52. In step S52, the control unit 50 performs a restart. In this case, the control unit 50 may stop outputting image data if it is outputting image data via various communication methods.

[0208] Here, a specific example of the power supply source and mode control will be described. In the high-power mode, the following describes a case where the connection state changes from the AC adapter and high-power USB device to the high-power USB device but the AC adapter is not connected. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to control in the high-power mode using the high-power USB device as the power supply source.

[0209] In the high-power mode, the following describes a case where the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter is connected but no USB device is connected to one in which the AC adapter and USB device are connected. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to use the AC adapter as the power supply source and continues control in the high-power mode.

[0210] The following describes a case where, during image reading based on a reading command in high-power mode, the connection state changes from the state in which the AC adapter and battery are connected to the state in which the AC adapter is connected but the battery is not. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to use the AC adapter as the power supply source and continues control in high-power mode.

[0211] The following describes a case where, during image reading based on a reading command in high-power mode, the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter and medium-power-feed USB device are connected to one in which the AC adapter is connected but the medium-power-feed USB device is not connected. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to use the AC adapter as the power supply source and continues control in high-power mode.

[0212] In the high-power mode, when an image is being read based on a read command, the connection state changes from the AC adapter and the low-power USB device to the AC adapter connected but the low-power USB device is not connected. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to use the AC adapter as the power supply source and continues control in the high-power mode.

[0213] This section explains what happens when, while scanning an image at 40 ppm based on a scanning command in high-power mode, the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter and a low-power USB device are connected to one in which the AC adapter is not connected. In this case, the control unit 50 stops scanning the image at 40 ppm and restarts the device. After restarting, the control unit 50 uses the low-power USB device as the power supply source and controls the device to low-power mode.

[0214] This section explains what happens when, while scanning an image at 5 ppm based on a scanning command in high-power mode, the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter and a low-power USB device are connected to one in which the AC adapter is not connected. In this case, the control unit 50 stops scanning the image at 5 ppm and restarts the device. After restarting, the control unit 50 uses the low-power USB device as the power supply source and controls the device to low-power mode.

[0215] This section explains what happens when, while scanning an image at 5 ppm in accordance with a scanning command in low-power mode, the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter is not connected but a low-power USB device is connected to one in which the AC adapter is connected. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to use the low-power USB device as a power supply source and continues control in low-power mode. Then, after scanning the image at 5 ppm is completed, the control unit 50 restarts. As a result, after restarting, the control unit 50 uses the AC adapter as a power supply source and controls the device to high-power mode.

[0216] This section explains what happens when, while scanning an image at 40 ppm in accordance with a scanning command in high-power mode, the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter is not connected but a high-power USB device is connected to one in which the AC adapter is connected. In this case, the control unit 50 continues to use the high-power USB device as a power supply source and continues control in high-power mode. Then, after scanning the image at 40 ppm is completed, the control unit 50 restarts. As a result, after restarting, the control unit 50 uses the AC adapter as a power supply source and controls the device to high-power mode.

[0217] The following describes a case where, in medium output mode, the connection state changes from one in which the AC adapter is not connected but the battery is connected to one in which the AC adapter is connected. In this case, the control unit 50 restarts. After the restart, the control unit 50 uses the AC adapter as the power supply source and controls the device to the high output mode.

[0218] <Charging control processing> Next, the charge control process will be described with reference to Fig. 11. The charge control process is called at predetermined intervals after the image reading device 11 is started up.

[0219] As shown in Fig. 11, in step S61, the control unit 50 executes a battery identification process similar to step S13 in Fig. 7. In this process, the control unit 50 identifies whether or not a battery is connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S62.

[0220] In step S62, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a battery is physically connected to the power supply circuit 60. If the control unit 50 determines that a battery is not physically connected, it ends the charging control process. If the control unit 50 determines that a battery is physically connected, it proceeds to step S63.

[0221] In step S63, the control unit 50 determines whether the battery is fully charged. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery is fully charged, it ends the charge control process. If the control unit 50 determines that the battery is not fully charged, it proceeds to step S64.

[0222] In step S64, the control unit 50 executes an AC adapter identification process, similar to step S11 in Fig. 7. In this process, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an AC adapter is connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S65.

[0223] In step S65, the control unit 50 executes the USB identification process in the same manner as in step S15 of Fig. 7. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S66.

[0224] In step S66, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an AC adapter is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that an AC adapter is connected, the process proceeds to step S70. If the control unit 50 determines that an AC adapter is not connected, the process proceeds to step S67.

[0225] In step S67, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a USB device is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that a USB device is not connected, it ends the charging control process. If the control unit 50 determines that a USB device is connected, it proceeds to step S68.

[0226] In step S68, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a high-power supply USB device is connected. If the control unit 50 determines that a high-power supply USB device is connected, the process proceeds to step S70. If the control unit 50 determines that a high-power supply USB device is not connected, the process proceeds to step S69.

[0227] In step S69, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an image is being read based on the read instruction. If the control unit 50 determines that an image is being read based on the read instruction, it ends the charging control process. If the control unit 50 determines that an image is not being read based on the read instruction, it proceeds to step S70.

[0228] In step S70, the control unit 50 charges the battery. In this process, the control unit 50 charges the battery connected to the power supply circuit 60. When this process is completed, the control unit 50 ends the charge control process.

[0229] In this way, the control unit 50 can charge the battery when the battery is not fully charged in a connection state where an AC adapter is connected and the battery is physically connected. The control unit 50 can charge the battery when the battery is not fully charged in a connection state where a high power supply USB device is connected and the battery is physically connected. The control unit 50 can charge the battery when the battery is not fully charged in a connection state where a USB device other than a high power supply USB device is connected and the battery is physically connected, as long as the battery is not currently being read based on a read command.

[0230] That is, in the high-power mode, when the battery and a high-power USB device are connected, the control unit 50 can charge the battery with power supplied from the high-power USB device. Also, in the medium and low-power modes, when the battery and a low-power USB device are connected, the control unit 50 does not charge the battery with power supplied from the low-power USB device while an image is being read based on a read command. In the medium and low-power modes, when the battery and a low-power USB device are connected, the control unit 50 can charge the battery with power supplied from the low-power USB device while an image is not being read based on a read command.

[0231] <Operation of the First Embodiment> The operation of the first embodiment will be described. It is monitored whether the AC adapter, battery, and USB device are connected to the power supply circuit 60. The charge level of the battery connected to the power supply circuit 60 is also monitored. The power supply source is determined based on the connection status of the AC adapter, battery, and USB device to the power supply circuit 60. In particular, the power supply source is determined according to a predetermined priority for the connection status. A power supply source that can supply a higher power value has a higher priority. Therefore, a power supply source that can supply a higher power value is given priority. This allows control related to image reading to be performed in a stable state.

[0232] When an image is being read based on a read instruction, even if the power range of the power supply source changes, the power supply source is not changed, thereby enabling the image to be read based on the read instruction in a stable state.

[0233] The image reading device 11 can be controlled to one of a plurality of modes based on the power supply source. In other words, the image reading device 11 can be controlled to one of a plurality of modes based on the connection status with the AC adapter, battery, and USB device. In this way, by being controlled to one of a plurality of modes, the power consumption of the image reading device 11 can be adjusted. In other words, the power consumption of the image reading device 11 can be adjusted to correspond to the power supply source and mode.

[0234] In particular, control is performed according to the control content corresponding to the set mode. This makes it possible to adjust the control content, reading speed, and reading control clock of the control unit 50 to correspond to the set mode. Also, it is possible to adjust the document type, carrier sheet, double feed detection, document protection, posture drive, and tray drive to correspond to the set mode. Also, it is possible to adjust the communication method, LCD display, touch panel, USB memory, and sensor time-sharing control to correspond to the set mode.

[0235] To explain the communication method in detail, in the high-power mode, the first wireless output process can be executed either before or after the end of the reading process. On the other hand, in the medium-power mode, the first wireless output process is not executed before the end of the reading process, and the first wireless output process can be executed after the end of the reading process. In the low-power mode, the second wireless output process is not executed before the end of the reading process, and the second wireless output process can be executed after the end of the reading process. Furthermore, the wired output process has a higher priority than the second wireless output process, and the second wireless output process has a higher priority than the first wireless output process.

[0236] When the power range of the power supply source does not change due to a change in the connection state during reading of an image based on a read instruction, reading of the image based on the read instruction continues. In this case, the power supply source can be changed during reading of an image based on the read instruction.

[0237] If the power range of the power supply source is changed to an increased value due to a change in the connection state while an image is being read based on a read instruction, the image reading based on the read instruction continues. In this case, the power supply source and mode continue without being changed while the image is being read based on the read instruction. After the image reading based on the read instruction is completed, the device is restarted. Then, after the restart, the power supply source and mode are changed.

[0238] If the power range of the power supply source is reduced due to a change in the connection state while an image is being read based on a read instruction, the image reading based on the read instruction is stopped and the device is restarted. After the restart, the power supply source and mode are changed.

[0239] Furthermore, when the battery charge level is below the minimum level, it is determined that the battery is not connected. When the battery charge level drops below the minimum level and then rises to above the maximum level, it is determined that the battery is not connected. This allows image reading control to be performed without allowing the battery charge level to fall below the minimum level.

[0240] In the high-power mode, the battery can be charged when the battery is physically connected and at least one of the AC adapter and the USB device is connected. On the other hand, in the medium-power mode and the low-power mode, the battery can be charged when not reading an image based on a read command. In the medium-power mode and the low-power mode, the battery is not charged while reading an image based on a read command.

[0241] <Effects of the first embodiment> The effects of the first embodiment will be described. (1) The multiple modes include a low-power mode and a high-power mode. The low-power mode is a controllable mode when a low-power USB device capable of supplying power values ​​within the low-power range is connected. The high-power mode is a controllable mode when a high-power USB device capable of supplying power values ​​within the high-power range, which is higher than the low-power range, is connected. The high-power mode is a controllable mode when an AC adapter capable of supplying power values ​​within the high-power range is connected. In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not allow image reading to be performed at 40 ppm, but can allow image reading to be performed at 5 ppm. In the high-power mode, the control unit 50 can allow image reading to be performed at 5 ppm and can also allow image reading to be performed at 40 ppm. Therefore, even if the power range that can be supplied varies depending on the USB device, image reading can be performed at 5 ppm in the same way. On the other hand, even for the same USB device, image reading can be performed at 40 ppm depending on the power range that can be supplied by the USB device. In this way, it is possible to read images at a reading speed that corresponds to the range of power that can be supplied by the USB device, and therefore it is possible to realize functions related to image reading according to the power consumption.

[0242] (2) In the high-power mode, when the connection state changes from a state in which the AC adapter and a high-power USB device are connected to a state in which the AC adapter is not connected, the control unit 50 selects the high-power USB device as the power supply source. In this case, the control unit 50 continues control in the high-power mode. Therefore, even when the connection state changes to a state in which the AC adapter is not connected, if a high-power USB device is connected, the control unit 50 can change the power supply source from the AC adapter to the high-power USB device. In addition, the control unit 50 can continue control in the high-power mode. Therefore, image scanning functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0243] (3) In the high-output mode, when the connection state changes from the AC adapter and low-power USB device connected to the AC adapter to the AC adapter disconnected state while an image is being read at 40 ppm based on a read command, the control unit 50 stops the image reading. Therefore, if the connection state changes to the AC adapter disconnected state while an image is being read at 40 ppm based on a read command, the image reading can be stopped in a state where the power supply range is reduced. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0244] (4) In the high-output mode, when the connection state changes from the AC adapter and low-power USB device connected state to the AC adapter disconnected state while an image is being read at 5 ppm based on a read command, the control unit 50 stops reading the image. Therefore, if the connection state changes to the AC adapter disconnected state while an image is being read at 5 ppm based on a read command, the image reading can be stopped in a state where the power supply range is reduced. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0245] (5) In the low-power mode, when the connection state of a low-power USB device changes to the connection state of an AC adapter while an image is being read at 5 ppm based on a read instruction, the control unit 50 continues to use the low-power USB device as the power supply source. In this case, the control unit 50 continues control in the low-power mode. Then, after the image is read at 5 ppm based on the read instruction, the control unit 50 controls the high-power mode with the AC adapter as the power supply source. Therefore, even if the connection state changes to the AC adapter while an image is being read at 5 ppm based on a read instruction, the power supply range does not increase, and the low-power USB device continues to be used as the power supply source. Control in the low-power mode continues. As a result, by continuing the power supply source and mode without changing while an image is being read at 5 ppm based on a read instruction, image reading can be continued in a stable state. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0246] (6) In addition, after the image has been scanned at 5 ppm based on the scanning command, the AC adapter can be used as the power source, thereby increasing the power range that can be supplied and starting control in high-power mode. This allows the image scanning functions to be realized according to the power consumption.

[0247] (7) In the high-power mode, when the connected state of the high-power USB device changes to the connected state of the AC adapter while reading an image at 40 ppm based on a reading instruction, the control unit 50 continues to use the high-power USB device as the power supply source. In this case, the control unit 50 continues control in the high-power mode. After the image reading at 40 ppm is completed, the control unit 50 continues control in the high-power mode, using the AC adapter as the power supply source. Therefore, even if the connected state of the AC adapter changes while reading an image at 40 ppm based on a reading instruction, if the high-power USB device is connected, the high-power USB device continues to be used as the power supply source. Control in the high-power mode continues. As a result, by continuing the power supply source and mode without changing while reading an image at 40 ppm based on a reading instruction, image reading can be continued in a stable state. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0248] (8) In addition, after the image scanning at 40 ppm is completed, the power supply source can be changed to the AC adapter, and the control in the high output mode can be continued. Therefore, the image scanning function can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0249] (9) The multiple modes include a medium-power mode. The medium-power mode is a controllable mode when a medium-power USB device capable of supplying power values ​​within a medium-power range, which is higher than the low-power range and lower than the high-power range, is connected. In the medium-power mode, the control unit 50 does not allow image reading at 40 ppm, but can allow image reading at 5 ppm and 30 ppm. Therefore, in addition to the low-power mode and the high-power mode, control is possible to the medium-power mode. Even with the same USB device, the power range that can be supplied by the USB device and the reading speed corresponding to the power range that can be supplied can be diversified. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0250] (10) In the high-power mode, when the battery is connected to a high-power USB device, the control unit 50 charges the battery using power supplied from the high-power USB device. In the low-power mode, when the battery is connected to a low-power USB device, the control unit 50 does not charge the battery using power supplied from the low-power USB device while an image is being read based on a read instruction. Therefore, even with the same USB device, whether or not to charge the battery while an image is being read based on a read instruction can be determined depending on the power range that can be supplied by the USB device. In particular, when a low-power USB device with a lower power range than the high-power USB device is connected, the control unit 50 does not charge the battery while an image is being read based on a read instruction, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0251] (11) The multiple modes include a medium output mode. The battery can supply power values ​​included in the medium power range. The medium output mode is a mode that can be controlled when the battery is connected. In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 does not allow image reading at 40 ppm, but can allow image reading at 5 ppm and can also allow image reading at 30 ppm. Therefore, in addition to the low output mode and high output mode, control is possible to the medium output mode. Power can be supplied from the battery, which allows for diversity in the type of power supply source and the reading speed depending on the power range that can be supplied. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0252] (12) In a connected state where a battery is physically connected and a medium power-supply USB device is connected, the control unit 50 selects the medium power-supply USB device as the power supply source and controls the device to medium output mode when the battery's charge level is below the lower limit. Therefore, in a connected state where a medium power-supply USB device capable of supplying power values ​​within the medium power range is connected, when the battery's charge level is below the lower limit, the medium power-supply USB device, rather than the battery, can be selected as the power supply source. This allows the device to be controlled to medium output mode without reducing the battery's charge level. Therefore, image scanning functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0253] (13) When a battery is physically connected and a medium power-supply USB device is connected, the control unit 50 controls the device to medium output mode by using the battery as the power supply source when the battery charge level is equal to or greater than the upper limit. Therefore, when a medium power-supply USB device capable of supplying power values ​​within the medium power range is connected, the battery can be used as the power supply source if the battery charge level is equal to or greater than the upper limit. This allows the device to be controlled to medium output mode by effectively utilizing power supply from the battery. Therefore, image scanning functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0254] (14) In a connected state in which a battery is physically connected and a low-power USB device is connected, the control unit 50 controls the device to use the low-power USB device as the power supply source and enters low-power mode when the battery's charge level is below the lower limit. Therefore, in a connected state in which a low-power USB device with a lower power range than the battery is connected, when the battery's charge level is below the lower limit, the low-power USB device can be used as the power supply source instead of the battery. This allows the device to enter low-power mode without reducing the battery's charge level. Therefore, image scanning functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0255] (15) In a connected state where a battery is physically connected and a low-power USB device is connected, the control unit 50 uses the battery as the power supply source and controls the device to medium output mode when the battery's charge level is equal to or greater than the upper limit. Therefore, in a connected state where a low-power USB device with a lower power range than the battery is connected, the battery can be used as the power supply source when the battery's charge level is equal to or greater than the upper limit. This allows control to the medium output mode by effectively utilizing power supply from a battery with a higher power range than the low-power USB device. Therefore, image scanning functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0256] (16) In the medium output mode, when the battery and a medium power-supply USB device are connected, the control unit 50 does not charge the battery with power supplied from the medium power-supply USB device while reading an image based on a read command. Therefore, even with the same USB device, whether or not to charge the battery while reading an image based on a read command can be determined depending on the power range that can be supplied by the USB device. In particular, when a medium power-supply USB device with a lower power range than a high power-supply USB device is connected, the control unit 50 does not charge the battery while reading an image based on a read command, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0257] (17) When the connection state changes from a battery connected state to an AC adapter connected state in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 controls the device to use the AC adapter as the power supply source and switches to high output mode. Therefore, when the connection state changes to an AC adapter with a higher power range than the battery, the AC adapter can be used as the power supply source. This allows the device to switch to high output mode by effectively utilizing the power supply from the AC adapter without reducing the battery charge. Therefore, image scanning functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0258] (18) In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the paper feed tray motor 47, which can move the paper feed tray 16, but in the high-power mode, the control unit 50 can drive the paper feed tray motor 47. Therefore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the paper feed tray motor 47, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0259] (19) In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the discharge tray motor 48, which can move the discharge tray 17, but in the high-power mode, the control unit 50 can drive the discharge tray motor 48. Therefore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, the discharge tray motor 48 is not driven, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0260] (20) In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the attitude drive motor 49, which drives the housing 12 to change its attitude, but in the high-power mode, the control unit 50 can drive the attitude drive motor 49. Therefore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, the control unit 50 does not drive the attitude drive motor 49, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0261] (21) The control unit 50 does not cause the conveying unit 21 to convey a carrier sheet in the low-power mode, but can cause the conveying unit 21 to convey a carrier sheet in the high-power mode. The control unit 50 disables the carrier sheet sensor 34 in the low-power mode, but enables the carrier sheet sensor 34 in the high-power mode. Therefore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, the control unit 50 does not convey a carrier sheet that requires more conveying power than the original D, such as thin paper, and therefore power consumption can be reduced. Furthermore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, the carrier sheet sensor 34 can be disabled, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, functions related to image reading can be realized according to power consumption.

[0262] (22) The control unit 50 disables the multi-feed sensor 35 in the low-power mode, but enables the multi-feed sensor 35 in the high-power mode. Therefore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, the multi-feed sensor 35 can be disabled, reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0263] (23) In the low-power mode, the control unit 50 can perform time-division control to switch between an enabled period in which the sensor is enabled and an disabled period in which the sensor is disabled. Therefore, in the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the high-power mode, time-division control can be performed to switch between an disabled period in which the sensor is disabled and an enabled period in which the sensor is enabled, thereby reducing power consumption. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0264] (24) In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after the reading process is completed, without executing the first wireless output process before the reading process is completed. In the high output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process either before the reading process is completed or after the reading process is completed. Therefore, in the medium output mode, which has a lower power supply range than the high output mode, the control unit 50 does not execute the first wireless output process before the reading process is completed, unlike in the high output mode. In this way, the timing for executing the reading process and the first wireless output process can be adjusted depending on the power supply range. Therefore, functions related to image reading can be realized according to power consumption.

[0265] (25) In the high-output mode, when both the first wireless communication and the wired communication are in a valid connection state, the control unit 50 can prioritize the wired output process, which consumes less power than the first wireless communication, over the first wireless output process. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0266] (26) In the medium output mode, when images are read from multiple sheets of original document D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the first wireless output process before the end of the reading process in which images are read from the multiple sheets of original document D. In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after the end of the reading process in which images are read from the multiple sheets of original document D. Therefore, in the medium output mode, in which the range of power that can be supplied is lower than in the high output mode, it is possible to adjust the execution of the reading process and the execution of the first wireless output process so that they do not overlap. Therefore, it is possible to realize functions related to image reading according to power consumption.

[0267] (27) Furthermore, the time required from the start to the end of the reading process for reading images from a plurality of originals D can be reduced. (28) In the low-power mode, which has a lower power range than the medium-power mode, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process, which consumes less power than the first wireless communication, without executing the first wireless output process. In this way, the type of wireless communication can be adjusted depending on the power range that can be supplied. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized depending on the power consumption.

[0268] (29) Capacitor 60A has a capacity capable of compensating for the power consumption caused by the execution of the polling process for the first wireless communication and the second wireless communication. Therefore, using capacitor 60A, which has a capacity capable of compensating for the power consumption caused by the execution of the polling process, it is possible to execute the polling process for recognizing the first wireless communication and the second wireless communication as valid connections. Therefore, it is possible to realize functions related to image reading according to the power consumption.

[0269] (30) The control unit 50 performs enumeration of the connection status with the USB device when either power-on or a change in the connection status with the USB device is triggered. The control unit 50 determines the connection status with the USB device based on the results of the enumeration. Therefore, it is possible to determine the connection status with the USB device when either power-on or a change in the connection status with the USB device is triggered. Therefore, it is possible to realize functions related to image reading according to power consumption.

[0270] (31) The notification unit 28 notifies the user of the controlled mode. This allows the user to identify the controlled mode. This allows the user to identify functions related to image reading. This improves user convenience.

[0271] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same components as those in the already described embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted or simplified.

[0272] In the second embodiment, when in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 reads images from a plurality of original documents D based on input of a reading instruction, and after completion of the reading process in which an image is read from each of the plurality of original documents D. In the second embodiment, when in the low output mode, the control unit 50 reads images from a plurality of original documents D based on input of a reading instruction, and after completion of the reading process in which an image is read from each of the plurality of original documents D.

[0273] 12, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 executes a reading process to read images from two sheets of original document D at 30 ppm based on a reading instruction. In this case, the control unit 50 starts the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T51. The control unit 50 ends the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T52.

[0274] When the control unit 50 is ready to start the reading process for reading an image from the second document D at the timing indicated by the reference symbol T53, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has already completed the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the first document D. If it is before the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the first document D has completed, the control unit 50 does not start the reading process for reading an image from the second document D, and puts the execution of the reading process on hold.

[0275] When the control unit 50 is ready to output the image data of the first document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T71, the control unit 50 starts a first wireless output process to output the image data of the first document D before starting the reading process to read an image from the second document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process to output the image data of the first document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T72.

[0276] When the control unit 50 determines that the first wireless output process for outputting image data of the first document D has ended at the timing indicated by reference symbol T58, it starts a reading process for reading an image from the second document D. The control unit 50 ends the reading process for reading an image from the second document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T59.

[0277] After the image data of the second document D becomes ready to be output at the timing indicated by reference symbol T73, if the reading process for reading the image from the second document D has been completed, the control unit 50 starts the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T74.

[0278] In this way, in the medium output mode, when images are read from multiple documents D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the first wireless output process before the end of the reading process in which an image is read from each of the multiple documents D. Then, in the medium output mode, after the end of the reading process in which an image is read from each of the multiple documents D, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process before the start of the reading process in which an image is read from the next document D.

[0279] Similarly, in the low-power mode, when images are read from multiple documents D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the second wireless output process before the end of the reading process in which an image is read from each of the multiple documents D. Then, in the low-power mode, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process after the end of the reading process in which an image is read from each of the multiple documents D, but before the start of the reading process in which an image is read from the next document D.

[0280] <Effects of the second embodiment> The effects of the second embodiment will be described. (32) In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after completing the reading process for reading images from each of the multiple documents D. In this way, in the medium output mode, in which the range of power that can be supplied is lower than in the high output mode, the execution of the reading process and the execution of the first wireless output process can be adjusted so as not to overlap. Therefore, the image reading function can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0281] (33) Furthermore, the timing of executing the first wireless communication for outputting the image data of the images read from each of the multiple original documents D can be advanced. [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described.

[0282] In the third embodiment, when in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 causes images to be read from a plurality of original documents D based on an input read instruction, and can execute the first wireless output process after completion of the read process in which images are read from a predetermined number of original documents D among the plurality of original documents D. In the third embodiment, when in the low output mode, the control unit 50 causes images to be read from a plurality of original documents D based on an input read instruction, and can execute the second wireless output process after completion of the read process in which images are read from a predetermined number of original documents D among the plurality of original documents D.

[0283] As shown in Fig. 13, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 executes a reading process to read images from four or more sheets of original document D at 30 ppm based on a reading instruction. The predetermined number of sheets is set to, for example, three sheets. In this case, the control unit 50 starts the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T51. The control unit 50 ends the reading process to read an image from the first sheet of original document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T52.

[0284] At the timing indicated by reference symbol T53, the control unit 50 starts the reading process of reading an image from the second document D. At the timing indicated by reference symbol T54, the control unit 50 ends the reading process of reading an image from the second document D.

[0285] At the timing indicated by reference symbol T55, the control unit 50 starts the reading process of reading an image from the third document D. At the timing indicated by reference symbol T56, the control unit 50 ends the reading process of reading an image from the third document D.

[0286] When the image data of the first document D becomes ready to be output at the timing indicated by the reference symbol T61, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the reading process for reading the image from the third document D has been completed. If the control unit 50 determines that the reading process for reading the image from the third document D has not yet been completed, the control unit 50 does not start the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the first document D, but puts the execution of the first wireless output process on hold.

[0287] When the image data of the second document D can be output at the timing indicated by the symbol T81, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the reading process for reading the image from the third document D has been completed. If the control unit 50 determines that the reading process for reading the image from the third document D has not yet been completed, the control unit 50 does not start the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D, but puts the execution of the first wireless output process on hold.

[0288] When the control unit 50 determines at the timing indicated by reference symbol T82 that the reading process for reading an image from the third document D has been completed, it starts a first wireless output process for outputting image data of the first document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting image data of the first document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T83.

[0289] When the control unit 50 determines at the timing indicated by reference symbol T84 that the reading process for reading the image from the third document D has been completed, it starts the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the second document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T85.

[0290] When the image data of the third document D becomes ready to be output at the timing indicated by reference symbol T86, after the reading process for reading the image from the third document D is completed, the control unit 50 starts the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the third document D. The control unit 50 ends the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the third document D at the timing indicated by reference symbol T87.

[0291] When the control unit 50 is ready to start the reading process for reading an image from the fourth document D at the timing indicated by the reference symbol T57, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the third document D has already been completed. If the control unit 50 determines that the first wireless output process for outputting the image data of the third document D has not yet been completed, the control unit 50 does not start the reading process for reading an image from the fourth document D, and puts the execution of the reading process on hold.

[0292] When the control unit 50 determines at the timing indicated by the symbol T60 that the first wireless output process for outputting image data of the third document D has been completed, it starts the reading process for reading an image from the fourth document D.

[0293] In addition, the control unit 50 executes a first wireless output process to output image data of a predetermined number of sheets of original document D, such as 3, 6, or 9 sheets, each time a reading process for reading images from the predetermined number of sheets of original document D is completed.

[0294] In this way, in the medium output mode, when images are read from a plurality of original documents D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the first wireless output process before completion of the reading process in which images are read from a predetermined number of original documents D among the plurality of original documents D. Then, in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after completion of the reading process in which images are read from a predetermined number of original documents D among the plurality of original documents D.

[0295] Similarly, in the low output mode, when images are read from a plurality of original documents D based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit 50 does not execute the second wireless output process before completion of the reading process in which images are read from a predetermined number of original documents D among the plurality of original documents D. Then, in the low output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the second wireless output process after completion of the reading process in which images are read from a predetermined number of original documents D among the plurality of original documents D.

[0296] <Effects of the third embodiment> (34) In the medium output mode, the control unit 50 can execute the first wireless output process after completing the reading process for reading images from a predetermined number of sheets of original document D among multiple sheets of original document D. In this way, in the medium output mode, in which the range of power that can be supplied is lower than in the high output mode, the execution of the reading process and the execution of the first wireless output process can be adjusted so as not to overlap. Therefore, the image reading function can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0297] (35) It is also possible to reduce the time required from the start to the end of the reading process for reading images from a predetermined number of sheets of original document D among multiple sheets of original document D. Furthermore, the first wireless output process can be executed at a timing that takes into consideration the data volume of image data of the predetermined number of sheets of original document D that can be stored in the image data storage unit 54A.

[0298] [Example of change] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined and implemented within the scope of technical compatibility.

[0299] In the above embodiment, the image reading device 11 may include a battery if it is connectable to the battery. In other words, the image reading device 11 may include a built-in battery.

[0300] In the above embodiment, the control unit 50 functions as the image processing unit 54, but for example, in the low output mode, the control unit 50 may output the digital signal itself from the analog front end 56 without performing image processing. For example, in the low output mode and the medium output mode, the control unit 50 may output the digital signal itself from the analog front end 56 without performing image processing.

[0301] In the above embodiment, for example, the image reading device 11 may include a sensor other than the multiple sensors related to image reading, and for example, it may not include at least one of the multiple sensors related to image reading.

[0302] In the above embodiment, for example, at least one of the movement of the paper feed tray 16, the movement of the paper output tray 17, and the change in the attitude of the housing 12 may be realized by a user operation. As a result, even if at least one of the movement of the paper feed tray 16, the movement of the paper output tray 17, and the change in the attitude of the housing 12 is disabled, it can still be realized by a user operation. For example, at least one of the movement of the paper feed tray 16, the movement of the paper output tray 17, and the change in the attitude of the housing 12 does not have to be realized by driving a drive source. In other words, for example, the paper feed tray 16 does not have to move. Also, for example, the paper output tray 17 does not have to move. Also, for example, the attitude of the housing 12 does not have to be changed.

[0303] In the above embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 may increase the illuminance of the backlight of the liquid crystal display unit 30 in the high output mode and the medium output mode, and may decrease the illuminance of the backlight of the liquid crystal display unit 30 in the low output mode.

[0304] In the above embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 may disable the notification unit 28 in the low output mode. In the above embodiment, for example, the image reading device 11 may not include the touch panel 29. For example, the image reading device 11 may not include the liquid crystal display unit 30. For example, the image reading device 11 may not include the operation unit 27. For example, the image reading device 11 may not include the notification unit 28.

[0305] In the above embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 may display an image that identifies the controlled mode on the liquid crystal display unit 30. In other words, the liquid crystal display unit 30 may be a notification unit that notifies the user of the controlled mode.

[0306] In the third embodiment, for example, the predetermined number of sheets may be determined in advance. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined number of sheets may vary depending on the size of the image data. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined number of sheets may be at least the number that can be stored in the image data storage unit 54A, and may not be the upper limit of the number that can be stored in the image data storage unit 54A.

[0307] In the second and third embodiments, the control unit 50 may divide, for example, an output processing period for outputting image data from one document D into multiple non-consecutive periods. As a specific example, the control unit 50 may execute wireless output processing for one document D after the reading processing for a first document D is completed and before the reading processing for the next document D is started, and may interrupt the execution of the wireless output processing when the reading processing for the second document D is started. The control unit 50 may resume the interrupted execution of the wireless output processing after the reading processing for the second document D is completed and before the reading processing for the next document D is started. This reduces the time from the start to the end of the reading processing for reading images from multiple documents D. Furthermore, the timing of executing wireless communication for outputting image data of images read from multiple documents D can be accelerated.

[0308] In the above embodiment, for example, when the control unit 50 is outputting image data via various communication methods, the control unit 50 may output the image data again after a restart. In other words, when the control unit 50 is outputting image data via various communication methods, the control unit 50 may suspend the output of the image data. In this case, the control unit 50 may resume the output of the image data from the point where it was suspended, or may resume the output of the image data in units of original documents D.

[0309] In the above embodiment, for example, when image data is being output via various communication methods, if the reading stop condition is not met but the restart condition is met, the control unit 50 may restart after finishing outputting the image data.

[0310] In the above embodiment, the first wireless communication may be, for example, a wireless communication other than Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The second wireless communication may be, for example, a wireless communication other than Bluetooth (registered trademark). In other words, the first wireless communication is preferably a wireless communication that consumes more power than the second wireless communication. The first wireless communication may be, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark). Also, for example, the second wireless communication may not be executable.

[0311] In the above embodiment, for example, in the low-power mode, the second wireless output process may be executed either before or after the end of the reading process. For example, in the low-power mode, the first wireless output process may not be executed before the end of the reading process, but may be executed after the end of the reading process.

[0312] In the above embodiment, for example, in the high-power mode, the second wireless output process may be executed with priority over the wired output process. For example, in the high-power mode, the first wireless output process may be executed with priority over the wired output process. For example, in the high-power mode, the first wireless output process may be executed with priority over the second wireless output process.

[0313] In the above embodiment, for example, in the medium output mode, the second wireless output process may be executed with priority over the wired output process. For example, in the medium output mode, the first wireless output process may be executed with priority over the wired output process. For example, in the medium output mode, the first wireless output process may be executed with priority over the second wireless output process.

[0314] In the above embodiment, for example, in the low power mode, the second wireless output process may be executed with priority over the wired output process. For example, in the low power mode, the first wireless output process may be executed with priority over the wired output process. For example, in the low power mode, the first wireless output process may be executed with priority over the second wireless output process.

[0315] In the above embodiment, the first device may be, for example, at least one of a medium power supply USB device and a battery, or may include other devices. The second device may be, for example, at least one of a high power supply USB device and an AC adapter, or may include other devices.

[0316] In the above embodiment, the control unit 50 may control the power supply to either the medium power mode or the low power mode instead of the high power mode when, for example, an AC adapter or a high-power USB device is connected.

[0317] In the above embodiment, the control unit 50 may control the medium output mode in the same way as the low output mode, for example, in the same way as the high output mode, different from the low output mode. As a specific example, the control unit 50 may control the multi-feed sensor 35 to be enabled in the high output mode and the medium output mode.

[0318] In the above embodiment, the control unit 50 may control the medium output mode in the same manner as in the high output mode, for example, in the same manner as in the low output mode, unlike in the high output mode. As a specific example, the control unit 50 may not drive the attitude drive motor 49 in the medium output mode and the low output mode.

[0319] In the above embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 may control at least one of the control contents corresponding to each of the multiple types of modes shown in FIG. In the above embodiment, for example, when a power value within the low power range is supplied due to a change in the connection status while an image is being read at 5 ppm based on a read instruction in the high-power mode or medium-power mode, the control unit 50 may continue reading the image without halting it. In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may switch to the low-power mode while reading the image based on the read instruction, or may switch to the low-power mode after reading the image based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may not need to be restarted.

[0320] In the above embodiment, for example, when a power value within the medium power range is supplied due to a change in the connection status while an image is being read at 30 ppm in high-power mode based on a read instruction, the control unit 50 may continue reading the image without halting it. In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may control the device to medium-power mode while reading the image based on the read instruction, or may control the device to medium-power mode after reading the image based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may not need to be restarted.

[0321] In the above embodiment, for example, when a power value within the high power range is supplied due to a change in the connection status during image reading at 5 ppm based on a read instruction in the medium output mode or low output mode, the control unit 50 may continue image reading without halting it. In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may control the device to the high output mode while reading the image based on the read instruction, or may control the device to the high output mode after reading the image based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may use a device compatible with the high output mode as a power supply source while reading the image based on the read instruction, or may use a device compatible with the high output mode as a power supply source after reading the image based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may not reboot.

[0322] In the above embodiment, for example, when a power value within the medium power range is supplied due to a change in the connection status while an image is being read at 5 ppm in low-power mode based on a read instruction, the control unit 50 may continue the image reading without halting it. In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may control the device to the medium-power mode while the image is being read based on the read instruction, or may control the device to the medium-power mode after the image reading based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may use a device compatible with the medium-power mode as the power supply source while the image is being read based on the read instruction, or may use a device compatible with the medium-power mode as the power supply source after the image reading based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may not reboot.

[0323] In the above embodiment, for example, when a power value within the high power range is supplied due to a change in the connection status while an image is being read at 30 ppm based on a read instruction in the medium output mode, the control unit 50 may continue the image reading without halting it. In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may control the device to the high output mode while the image is being read based on the read instruction, or may control the device to the high output mode after the image reading based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may use a device compatible with the high output mode as a power supply source while the image is being read based on the read instruction, or may use a device compatible with the high output mode as a power supply source after the image reading based on the read instruction is completed. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may not reboot.

[0324] In the above embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 may not be restarted when changing modes. For example, the control unit 50 may not be restarted when changing modes to lower the power range. For example, the control unit 50 may not be restarted when changing modes to raise the power range.

[0325] In the above embodiment, for example, the image reading device 11 may be configured to read images at any of two or four or more reading speeds. Also, for example, the reading speed may be any speed.

[0326] In the above embodiment, four USB standards are exemplified, but the present invention may be applied to, for example, two, three, five or more standards. In other words, it is sufficient if at least multiple USB devices that can supply power values ​​falling within different power ranges can be connected. Furthermore, for example, each power range may be any range.

[0327] In the above embodiment, for example, the image reading device 11 may include a plurality of USB connection units 64. In other words, a plurality of USB devices can be connected to the image reading device 11. In this case, the control unit 50 may determine the power supply source according to the priority order of the plurality of USB devices. Furthermore, the control unit 50 may control the mode according to the priority order of the plurality of USB devices.

[0328] In the above embodiment, for example, the USB device may be either a host device or a device. In the above embodiment, for example, the AC adapter, battery, and USB device may have any power range. Also, for example, as long as the AC adapter, battery, and USB device can supply power values ​​within the same power range, the power values ​​themselves may be the same or different.

[0329] In the above embodiment, five power supply sources are exemplified: an AC adapter, a battery, a high-power USB device, a medium-power USB device, and a low-power USB device. However, this is not limiting. For example, the image reading device 11 may be powered by any of two to four or six or more power supply sources. In other words, the power supply source may include, for example, a power supply source other than the above-exemplified power supply sources, or may not include at least one of the above-exemplified power supply sources.

[0330] In the above embodiment, three modes are used as the multiple modes, but this is not limiting. For example, two modes or four or more modes may be used as the multiple modes.

[0331] In the above embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 does not have to perform enumeration with the USB device when the power is turned on. For example, the control unit 50 does not have to perform enumeration with the USB device when a change in the connection state with the USB device is triggered. In other words, the control unit 50 may perform enumeration with the USB device when at least one of the power is turned on and a change in the connection state with the USB device is triggered.

[0332] In the above embodiment, various controls are performed under the condition that an image is not being read based on a read instruction, but this is not limited to this. For example, various controls may be performed when an image is being read based on a read instruction but the reading unit 40 is not actually reading the image. In other words, during a control period based on a read instruction, various controls may be performed during a non-reading period when the reading unit 40 is not actually reading the image. In this way, various controls may be performed under the condition that an image is not being read. Examples of various controls may include changing the power supply source, changing the mode, wireless communication, and charging the battery.

[0333] In the above embodiment, even if the battery charge level is equal to or greater than the upper limit, if image reading is performed over a long period of time, the control unit 50 may control the device to a low output mode without using the battery as a power supply source.

[0334] The image sensor 42 is not limited to a CMOS image sensor, but may be, for example, a MOS (Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0335] The image sensor 42 is not limited to a linear image sensor, but may be, for example, an area image sensor. The material of the document is not limited to paper, but may be, for example, a resin film or sheet, a fabric, a metal film, or the like.

[0336] The image reading device may be part of a multifunction device that has printing and copying functions in addition to the scanning function. The image reading device is not limited to a sheet-fed type, and may be a flatbed type. A flatbed type image reading device includes a carriage and a carriage motor. The carriage is movable along the main scanning direction D2 by being driven by the carriage motor. A reading unit is mounted on the carriage.

[0337] The present invention is applicable to an image reading device, but is also applicable to a control method for an image reading device. [Note] The technical concepts and effects that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below.

[0338] (A) A device comprising a reading unit configured to read an image from a document and a control unit configured to control the reading of the image, wherein the control unit is controllable to any one of a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode, wherein the first mode is a controllable mode in a connected state in which a first device capable of supplying a power value included in a first power range is connected, and the second mode is a controllable mode in a connected state in which a second device capable of supplying a power value included in a second power range higher than the first power range is connected, and the control unit is capable of executing a reading process that causes the reading unit to read an image from a document and a first wireless output process that causes image data of the image read by the reading unit to be output via a first wireless communication, wherein in the first mode, the first wireless output process is not executed before the end of the reading process, but the first wireless output process is executed after the end of the reading process, and in the second mode, the first wireless output process is executed either before the end of the reading process or after the end of the reading process.

[0339] According to this configuration, in the first mode, which has a lower power supply range than the second mode, the control unit does not execute the first wireless output process before the end of the reading process, unlike the second mode. In this way, the timing of execution of the reading process and the first wireless output process can be adjusted depending on the power supply range. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption.

[0340] (B) The control unit may be capable of executing a wired output process that outputs image data of an image read by the reading unit via wired communication that consumes less power than the first wireless communication, and may be capable of executing the wired output process in priority over the first wireless output process when both the first wireless communication and the wired communication are in a valid connection state in the second mode.

[0341] According to this configuration, when both the first wireless communication and the wired communication are in a valid connection state in the second mode, the control unit can execute the wired output process, which consumes less power than the first wireless communication, in priority over the first wireless output process, thereby enabling the image reading function to be realized according to the power consumption.

[0342] (C) The wired communication may include USB communication. This configuration can achieve the same effect as (B). (D) In ​​the first mode, when the control unit reads images from multiple documents based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit may not execute the first wireless output process before completion of the reading process that reads images from multiple documents based on input of a reading instruction, but may execute the first wireless output process after completion of the reading process that reads images from multiple documents based on input of a reading instruction.

[0343] According to this configuration, the control unit can execute the first wireless output process in the first mode after completing the reading process for reading images from multiple documents. In this way, in the first mode, which has a lower power supply range than the second mode, the execution of the reading process and the execution of the first wireless output process can be adjusted so as not to overlap. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption. Furthermore, the time from the start to the end of the reading process for reading images from multiple documents can be shortened.

[0344] (E) In the first mode, when the control unit reads images from multiple documents based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit may be able to execute the first wireless output process after the reading process of reading images from each of the multiple documents is completed, rather than executing the first wireless output process before the reading process of reading images from each of the multiple documents is completed.

[0345] According to this configuration, the control unit can execute the first wireless output process in the first mode after completing the reading process for reading images from each of the multiple documents. In this way, in the first mode, which has a lower power supply range than the second mode, the execution of the reading process and the execution of the first wireless output process can be adjusted so as not to overlap. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to power consumption. Furthermore, the timing of execution of the first wireless communication for outputting image data of the images read from each of the multiple documents can be advanced.

[0346] (F) The control unit may have an image data storage unit capable of storing image data of an image read from a specified sheet of original by the reading unit, and in the first mode, when images are read from a plurality of originals based on input of a reading instruction, the control unit may be capable of executing the first wireless output process after the completion of the reading process in which an image is read from a specified sheet of original among the plurality of originals, without executing the first wireless output process before the completion of the reading process in which an image is read from the specified sheet of original among the plurality of originals.

[0347] According to this configuration, in the first mode, the control unit can execute the first wireless output process after completing the reading process for reading an image from a predetermined number of documents among a plurality of documents. In this way, in the first mode, in which the range of power that can be supplied is lower than in the second mode, the execution of the reading process and the execution of the first wireless output process can be adjusted so as not to overlap. Therefore, it is possible to realize functions related to image reading according to power consumption. It is also possible to shorten the time from the start to the end of the reading process for reading an image from a predetermined number of documents among a plurality of documents. Furthermore, it is possible to execute the first wireless output process at a timing that takes into account the data capacity of the image data for the predetermined number of documents that can be stored in the image data storage unit.

[0348] (G) The multiple types of modes include a third mode, which is a mode that can be controlled in a connected state where a third device is connected that can supply a power value included in a third power range lower than the first power range, and the control unit can execute a second wireless output process that outputs image data of an image read by the reading unit via a second wireless communication that consumes less power than the first wireless communication, and in the third mode, the second wireless output process can be executed without executing the first wireless output process.

[0349] According to this configuration, in the third mode, which has a lower power supply range than the first mode, the control unit can execute the second wireless output process, which consumes less power than the first wireless communication, without executing the first wireless output process. In this way, the type of wireless communication can be adjusted depending on the power supply range. Therefore, image reading functions can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0350] (H) The control unit may be capable of performing a polling process to recognize the first wireless communication as a valid connection state, and may be provided with a capacitor having a capacity capable of compensating for power consumption caused by performing the polling process.

[0351] According to this configuration, the polling process for recognizing the first wireless communication as a valid connection can be executed using a capacitor with a capacity capable of compensating for the power consumption due to the execution of the polling process, and therefore the image reading function can be realized according to the power consumption.

[0352] (I) The first device may include a low-power USB device that can supply a power value within the first power range, and the second device may include a high-power USB device that can supply a power value within the second power range. This configuration can achieve the same effect as (A).

[0353] (J) The third device may include a medium-power USB device that can supply power within the third power range. This configuration can achieve the same effect as (G).

[0354] (K) A control method for an image reading device having a reading unit configured to read an image from a document, comprising: a first mode controllable in a connected state to a first device capable of supplying a power value included in a first power range; and a second mode controllable in a connected state to a second device capable of supplying a power value included in a second power range higher than the first power range; in the first mode, a first wireless output process for outputting image data of the image read by the reading unit via a first wireless communication is not executed before completion of a reading process in which the reading unit reads an image from a document, but the first wireless output process can be executed after completion of the reading process; and in the second mode, the first wireless output process can be executed either before completion of the reading process or after completion of the reading process. This configuration can achieve the same effect as (A). [Explanation of symbols]

[0355] D...original, D1...sub-scanning direction, D2...main scanning direction, SA...reading area, TA...control table, 11...image reading device, 12...casing, 13...base, 14...supply port, 15...discharge port, 15A...first discharge port, 15B...second discharge port, 16...paper feed tray, 17...paper discharge tray, 18...transport path, 18A...first transport path, 18B...second transport path, 19...common transport path, 20A...curved path, 20B...straight path, 21...transport unit, 22 ...paper feed roller, 23...first roller pair, 23A...first drive roller, 23B...first separation roller, 24...second roller pair, 24A...second drive roller, 24B...second driven roller, 25...third roller pair, 25A...third drive roller, 25B...third driven roller, 26...path switching member, 27...operation unit, 28...notification unit, 29...touch panel, 30...liquid crystal display unit, 31...first document sensor, 32...document protection sensor Ser, 33... document thickness sensor, 34... carrier sheet sensor, 35... multi-feed sensor, 36... second document sensor, 37... attitude sensor, 37A... first attitude sensor, 37B... second attitude sensor, 40... reading unit, 41... light source, 42... image sensor, 43... background plate, 44... feed motor, 45... transport motor, 46... encoder, 47... paper feed tray motor, 48... paper output tray motor, 49... attitude drive motor, 50... control unit, 51... main control unit, 52... transport control unit, 53... reading control unit, 54... image processing unit, 54A... image data storage unit, 55... timing generator, 56... analog front end, 57... first wireless communication unit, 58... second wireless communication unit, 59... wired communication unit, 60... power supply circuit, 60A... capacitor, 61... connection unit, 62... AC adapter connection unit, 63... battery connection unit, 64... USB connection unit

Claims

1. a reading unit configured to read an image from a document; a control unit configured to perform control related to image reading; Equipped with The control unit can control the device to one of a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes include a first mode and a second mode, the first mode is a mode that can be controlled in a connected state in which a first device that can supply power at a power value included in a first power range is connected, the second mode is a mode that can be controlled in a connected state in which a second device that can supply power at a value included in a second power range that is higher than the first power range is connected, The control unit a reading process for reading an image from a document by the reading unit, and a first wireless output process for outputting image data of the image read by the reading unit via a first wireless communication; In the first mode, the first wireless output process may be executed after the end of the reading process without executing the first wireless output process before the end of the reading process, In the second mode, the first wireless output process can be executed either before the reading process is completed or after the reading process is completed. An image reading device characterized by:

2. 2. The image reading device according to claim 1, The control unit a wired output process can be executed to output image data of the image read by the reading unit via wired communication that consumes less power than the first wireless communication; In the second mode, when both the first wireless communication and the wired communication are in a valid connection state, the wired output process can be executed with priority over the first wireless output process. An image reading device characterized by:

3. 3. The image reading device according to claim 2, The wired communication includes USB communication. An image reading device characterized by:

4. In the image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the first mode, when images are read from a plurality of original documents based on a reading instruction input, the control unit can execute the first wireless output process after the reading process, in which images are read from a plurality of original documents based on a reading instruction input, is completed, without executing the first wireless output process before the reading process, in which images are read from a plurality of original documents based on a reading instruction input, is completed. An image reading device characterized by:

5. In the image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the first mode, when images are read from a plurality of original documents based on an input of a reading instruction, the control unit can execute the first wireless output process after the reading process of reading images from each of the plurality of original documents is completed, without executing the first wireless output process before the reading process of reading images from each of the plurality of original documents is completed. An image reading device characterized by:

6. In the image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The control unit an image data storage unit capable of storing image data of an image read from a predetermined number of sheets of a document by the reading unit; In the first mode, when images are read from a plurality of originals based on input of a reading instruction, the first wireless output process can be executed after the completion of the reading process in which an image is read from a predetermined original among the plurality of originals, without executing the first wireless output process before the completion of the reading process in which an image is read from the predetermined original among the plurality of originals. An image reading device characterized by:

7. In the image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the plurality of modes includes a third mode, the third mode is a mode that can be controlled in a connected state in which a third device that can supply power of a value included in a third power range that is lower than the first power range is connected, The control unit a second wireless output process can be executed to output image data of the image read by the reading unit via a second wireless communication that consumes less power than the first wireless communication; In the third mode, the second wireless output process can be executed without executing the first wireless output process. An image reading device characterized by:

8. The image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the control unit is capable of performing a polling process to recognize the first wireless communication as a valid connection state, a capacitor having a capacity capable of compensating for power consumption due to execution of the polling process; An image reading device characterized by:

9. The image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the first device includes a low-power USB device that can supply power within the first power range; the second device includes a high-power USB device that can supply power within the second power range; An image reading device characterized by:

10. 8. The image reading device according to claim 7, the third device includes a medium-power USB device that can supply power within the third power range; An image reading device characterized by:

11. 1. A control method for an image reading device including a reading unit configured to read an image from a document, comprising: The power supply can be controlled to any one of a plurality of modes, including a first mode that can be controlled in a connection state where a first device that can supply a power value included in a first power range is connected, and a second mode that can be controlled in a connection state where a second device that can supply a power value included in a second power range higher than the first power range is connected; In the first mode, a first wireless output process for outputting image data of an image read by the reading unit via a first wireless communication is not executed before completion of a reading process for reading an image from a document by the reading unit, and the first wireless output process can be executed after completion of the reading process; In the second mode, the first wireless output process can be executed either before the reading process is completed or after the reading process is completed.

2. A method for controlling an image reading device, comprising:

Images