Image reading device

Abstract

To provide an image reading device and an image forming apparatus that can make variable the speed of scan processing.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, an image reading device has a scanner, an operation panel, a storage unit, and a processor. The scanner reads an image of a document at a set scan speed. The operation panel receives input of an instruction for the working speed of scan processing of reading the image of the document. The storage unit includes a scan counter that stores, for every scan speed, a count value of the number of pages for the images read from the document by using the scanner. The processor sets the scan speed according to the working speed instructed on the operation panel, executes the scan processing at the set scan speed, and updates the scan counter according to the number of pages for the images read at the set scan speed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 Embodiments of the present invention relate to Image reading device this. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Conventionally, an image reading device such as a scanner mounted on a digital multi-function peripheral operates at a scan speed and a processing speed set at the factory or during setup. A conventional image reading device cannot change the scan speed and the processing speed set before the user uses it. Usually, the scan speed and the processing speed are often reflected in the price of the image forming device. Therefore, users who value cost have no choice but to purchase a low-speed machine, and users who value processing speed have no choice but to purchase a high-speed machine. 【0003】 However, in actual operation, an image reading device such as a scanner included in a digital multi-function peripheral may have no problem with low-speed processing that emphasizes cost and may require high-speed processing. A conventional image reading device cannot operate in such a way that it suppresses costs with low-speed scan processing in the default setting and temporarily performs high-speed scan processing at the cost. In recent years, in response to the increasing demand for paperless operation, improvement in the productivity of scan processing by an image reading device such as a scanner included in a digital multi-function peripheral has been emphasized. Therefore, there is a demand for an image reading device and a system that can execute scan processing according to user requirements and improve the productivity of the scanner. 【Prior Art Documents】 【Patent Documents】 【0004】 【Patent Document 1】 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-240103 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0005】 To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention makes it possible to vary the speed of the scanning process. Image reading device The purpose is to provide. [Means for solving the problem] 【0006】 According to the embodiment, the image reading device includes a scanner and Communication interface and It has an operation panel, a memory unit, and a processor. The scanner reads the image of the document at the set scanning speed. The communication interface sends the fax data generated from the scanned image data of the document read by the scanner to the fax recipient. The control panel is, The system includes an instruction button for speeding up fax transmission, which transmits the fax data via the aforementioned communication interface. The memory unit includes a scan counter that stores the page count value of the image scanned from the document using the scanner for each scanning speed. The processor is If the instruction button for speeding up the fax transmission is pressed on the control panel, the scanner's scanning speed for the fax transmission is set to a speed higher than the default value. The above setting High speed The scan process is performed at the scan speed, The scanner read at a high scanning speed. The scan counter is updated according to the number of pages in the image. Then, after the fax transmission is completed, the scanner's scan speed is changed to the default value. do. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0007】 [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an external view of an example configuration of a digital multifunction device as an image reading device and image forming device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction device as an image reading device and image forming device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system in a digital multifunction printer as an image reading device and image forming device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of a scan counter included in a digital multifunction printer as an image reading device according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of a print counter in a digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of an operation screen displayed by a digital multifunction device, which serves as both an image reading device and an image forming device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7]Figure 7 shows an example of an operation screen displayed by a digital multifunction device, which serves as both an image reading device and an image forming device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the scanning process in a digital multifunction printer as an image reading device according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the copy process in a digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0008】 This embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of the digital multifunction printer (MFP; Multi-Functional Peripheral) 1 as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of a digital multifunction printer 1 as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the control system in the digital multifunction printer 1. 【0009】 As shown in Figure 1, the digital multifunction device 1 includes a scanner 2, a printer 3, and an operation panel 4. Scanner 2 is installed on top of the main unit of the digital multifunction printer. Scanner 2 is a device that optically reads images from documents. Scanner 2 has a document glass 11 on which documents to be scanned are placed. Scanner 2 has an image reading mechanism that scans documents on the document glass 11 through the glass of the document glass 11. 【0010】 Scanner 2 includes a carriage 12 and a photoelectric converter 13, etc. The carriage 12 and the photoelectric converter 13, etc. are installed below the document glass 11. The carriage 12 is equipped with an illumination 62 (see Figure 3) and optical systems such as mirrors. The illumination 62 is installed on the carriage 12 so that the emitted light illuminates the reading position on the document glass 11. The reading position on the document glass 11 illuminated by the illumination 62 corresponds to one line (or more lines) of image in the main scanning direction. The optical systems such as mirrors mounted on the carriage 12 guide the light (reflected light) from the reading position illuminated by the illumination 62 to the photoelectric converter 13. 【0011】 Furthermore, the carriage 12 moves below the document glass 11 in the sub-scanning direction by a movement mechanism 63 (see Figure 3) including a stepping motor. The position of the carriage 12 is determined during initial operation, and its movement in the sub-scanning direction is controlled based on the determined position. For example, by moving in the sub-scanning direction, the carriage 12 continuously guides the line-by-line images in the main scanning direction within the document scanning area (document reading area) on the document glass 11 to the photoelectric conversion unit 13. 【0012】 The photoelectric conversion unit 13 includes a lens, a photoelectric conversion sensor, and a cover. The lens collects the light guided by the optical system of the carriage 12 and directs it to the photoelectric conversion sensor. The photoelectric conversion sensor is composed of photoelectric conversion elements. The photoelectric conversion sensor is, for example, a line sensor in which CCDs or CISs as photoelectric conversion elements are arranged in a line. The line sensor as a photoelectric conversion sensor converts the image (reflected light from the document surface) for one line in the main scanning direction into pixel data for one line. 【0013】 The carriage 12 that moves by the moving mechanism 63 moves the reading position on the platen glass 11 leading to the photoelectric conversion unit 13 in the sub-scanning direction. The scanner 2 reads the image of the entire document by acquiring the image data in the main scanning direction with the photoelectric conversion unit 13 while moving the carriage 12 in the sub-scanning direction. The scanner 2 controls the reading speed of the image in the sub-scanning direction by controlling the movement of the carriage 12. Also, the scanner 2 controls the timing of acquiring the pixel data for one line in the main scanning direction from the line sensor according to the moving speed of the carriage 12. Thereby, the scanner 2 controls the reading speed (scanning speed) of the image of the entire document set on the platen glass 11. 【0014】 The scanner 2 has an automatic document feeder (ADF: Auto Document Feeder) 14. The ADF 14 also functions as a document table cover and is installed so as to be openable and closable. In the state where the ADF 14 is closed, the ADF 14 covers the entire document reading area on the platen glass 11. Also, the ADF 14 includes a paper feed tray and a conveyance system and the like. The paper feed tray of the ADF 14 holds the document to be read. The conveyance system of the ADF 14 takes out the documents set in the paper feed tray one by one and conveys the documents so that the reading surface of the taken-out document passes through a predetermined reading position. 【0015】 The scanner 2 controls the reading speed of the image in the sub-scanning direction by controlling the conveyance speed at which the ADF 14 conveys the document. Also, the scanner 2 controls the timing of acquiring the pixel data for one line in the main scanning direction from the line sensor according to the conveyance speed of the document by the ADF 14. Thereby, the scanner 2 controls the reading speed (scanning speed) of the image of the entire document set in the ADF 14. 【0016】 Printer 3 has paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C. These paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C store paper as the image-forming medium for printing images. For example, each paper feed cassette 21A, 21B, and 21C is detachable from the bottom of the digital multifunction printer body. Each paper feed cassette 21A, 21B, and 21C has paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C, respectively. Each paper feed roller 22A, 22B, and 22C dispenses one sheet of paper at a time from each paper feed cassette 21A, 21B, and 21C. 【0017】 The transport system 23 transports paper within the printer 3. The transport system 23 includes multiple transport rollers 23a to 23d and a registration roller 24. The transport system 23 transports the paper picked up by each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C to the registration roller 24. The registration roller 24 transports the paper to the transfer position at the timing of image transfer. 【0018】 Multiple image forming units 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K) each form an image of a different color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image as an image developed in each color on each image carrier in each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K). The exposure device 26 forms the electrostatic latent image on the image carrier by scanning it with light emitted according to the image data. For example, the exposure device 26 scans the photosensitive drum, which serves as the image carrier, in the main scanning direction by irradiating it with light emitted from the light-emitting unit via a rotating polygon mirror. The irradiation position of the light from the exposure device 26 moves in the sub-scanning direction as the photosensitive drum rotates. In other words, the position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 25 are adjusted by controlling the exposure device 26. 【0019】 Each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K) develops the electrostatic latent image on each image carrier with its respective color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) toner. The intermediate transfer belt 27 is an intermediate transfer body. Each image forming unit 25 transfers the toner images of each color developed with their respective toners on their respective image carriers onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 (primary transfer). 【0020】 The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the transferred toner image and sends it to the secondary transfer position. The secondary transfer position is the position where the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27 is transferred to the paper. The secondary transfer position is the position where the support roller 28a and the secondary transfer roller 28b face each other. The support roller 28a and the secondary transfer roller 28b constitute the transfer unit 28. The registration roller 24 transports the paper to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. The transfer unit 28 transfers the toner image held on the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the paper at the secondary transfer position. 【0021】 For example, when forming a color image, each image forming unit 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K transfers toner images developed with each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) onto the intermediate transfer belt 27. The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the color image formed by the overlapping toner images of each color. The transfer unit 28 transfers the color image formed by the multiple toners on the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the paper at the secondary transfer position. The registration roller 24 transports the paper to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. As a result, the color image is transferred to the paper. 【0022】 The transfer unit 28 supplies the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to the fuser unit 29. The fuser unit 29 fixes the toner image to the paper. The fuser unit 29 has a heating unit 29a, a heat roller 29b, and a pressure roller 29c. The heating unit 29a heats the heat roller 29b. The heat roller 29b and the pressure roller 29c perform a fixing process by heating the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer unit 28 under pressure. The heat roller 29b and the pressure roller 29c in the fuser unit 29 send the fixed paper to the transport roller 23d. The transport roller 23d transports the paper from the fuser unit 29 to the paper discharge unit 30. 【0023】 The control panel 4 is the user interface. The control panel 4 displays instructions and accepts input from operation buttons or icons. For example, the user inputs setting information on the control panel 4. The control panel 4 has a display unit 41, a touch panel 42, and a number of operation buttons 43. For example, the touch panel 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41. The touch panel 42 detects the area on the display screen of the display unit 41 that the user touches. 【0024】 Next, we will explain the configuration of the control system in the digital multifunction printer configured as described above. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the control system configuration in the digital multifunction device 1. The digital multifunction device 1 has a system control unit 5 that controls the entire device. The system control unit 5 is connected to the scanner 2, printer 3, and operation panel 4. In the configuration example shown in Figure 3, the system control unit 5 includes a processor 50, memory 51, image memory 52, image processing unit 53, storage device 54, and communication interface (I / F) 55, etc. 【0025】 The processor 50 connects to the processor 60 of the scanner 2, the processor 70 of the printer 3, and the processor 80 of the control panel 4 via an interface. The processor 50 implements various processing functions by executing programs stored in the memory 51 or storage device 54. For example, the processor 50 outputs operation instructions to each unit and processes various information from each unit by executing programs stored in the memory 51. 【0026】 Memory 51 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and NVM. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. NVM is rewritable, non-volatile memory. NVM stores configuration data, etc. The image memory 52 stores image data. For example, the image memory 52 functions as a page memory for expanding the image data to be processed. 【0027】 The image processing unit 53 processes image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 outputs image data that has undergone image processing such as correction, compression, or decompression on the input image data. The image processing unit 53 also includes an image processing processor. The image processing processor in the image processing unit 53 is assumed to have a variable operating frequency (operating speed). The image processing unit 53 changes the processing time required for image processing by changing the operating frequency of the processor. For example, the image processing unit 53 can set the image processing time to a processing speed equivalent to 1.5 times or 2 times by clocking up the operating frequency of the processor. 【0028】 The storage device 54 stores data such as control data, control programs, and configuration information. The storage device 54 is composed of rewritable, non-volatile memory. For example, the storage device 54 is composed of a storage device such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive). 【0029】 The storage device 54 also includes a scan counter 541 and a print counter 542. The scan counter 541 counts the number of pages scanned using the scanner 2. In the digital multifunction device as an image reading device according to this embodiment, the scan counter 541 counts the number of pages scanned at each scan speed. The print counter 542 counts the number of pages printed using the printer 3. In the digital multifunction device 1 as an image forming device according to this embodiment, the print counter 542 counts the number of pages printed at each print speed. 【0030】 Communication I / F55 is an interface for data communication with external devices. For example, communication I / F55 is an interface for communicating with an external device that serves as an output destination for images scanned by the network scan function. Communication I / F55 is also an interface for receiving print images and print instructions from an external device via the network print function. Furthermore, communication I / F55 includes an interface for sending fax data generated from scanned images to a fax recipient via the fax function. Communication I / F55 may also be an interface for communicating with an external device (such as a server) that collects values ​​such as the scan counter 541 and print counter 542. 【0031】 Next, we will describe an example of the control system configuration in scanner 2. As shown in Figure 3, the scanner 2 includes a processor 60, memory 61, ADF 14, illumination 62, moving mechanism 63, and photoelectric conversion unit 13. The processor 60 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 61. For example, the processor 60 controls the operation of each part within the scanner 2 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing programs. The processor 60 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 60 performs scanning operations to read the image of the document in response to operation instructions from the system control unit 5. 【0032】 Memory 61 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is rewritable, non-volatile memory. The ADF14 has a control system consisting of a pickup roller and a transport system. The processor 60 drives the pickup roller and the transport system to transport the original document one by one to the reading position. 【0033】 The illumination 62 is mounted on the carriage 12 and illuminates the reading position on the document glass 11. The illumination 62 has a light source that emits light according to a lighting instruction from the processor 60. The light source is not limited to a specific configuration. The light emitted by the illumination 62 becomes reflected light from the document placed on the document glass 11 and enters the photoelectric conversion unit via an optical system such as a mirror and lens. 【0034】 The moving mechanism 63 is a mechanism for moving the carriage 12. The moving mechanism 63 has a stepping motor or the like as a drive source. The moving mechanism 63 moves the carriage 12 by driving the stepping motor. The moving mechanism 63 moves the carriage 12 according to operation instructions from the processor 60 or the processor 50 of the system control unit 5. For example, when the processor 60 scans a document on the document glass 11, it moves the carriage 12 from the reading start position to the sub-scanning direction (FWD direction). 【0035】 The processor 60 changes the movement speed of the carriage 12 by the movement mechanism 63 in response to operation instructions from the processor 50. For example, if the movement mechanism 63 is instructed to scan at 1.5 times the default setting speed, it moves the carriage 12 at 1.5 times the default speed. Also, if the movement mechanism 63 is instructed to scan at 2 times the default setting speed, it moves the carriage 12 at 2 times the default speed. 【0036】 The photoelectric conversion unit 13 is composed of a photoelectric conversion sensor consisting of a photoelectric conversion element that converts incident light into an electrical signal. The photoelectric conversion unit 13 has a photoelectric conversion sensor composed of, for example, a line sensor that generates pixel data for the reading lines in the main scanning direction. The photoelectric conversion unit 13 also has a lens for inputting light guided by the optical system mounted on the carriage 12 to the photoelectric conversion sensor. In other words, the photoelectric conversion sensor of the photoelectric conversion unit 13 sequentially outputs pixel data for the reading lines in the main scanning direction as the carriage 12 moves in the sub-scanning direction. 【0037】 Furthermore, the photoelectric conversion unit 13 controls the timing of outputting pixel data to the carriage 12 according to its movement speed and resolution. For example, if the movement speed (scanning speed) of the carriage 12 is twice the default value, the photoelectric conversion unit 13 outputs pixel data at twice the timing of the default value. Also, if the document transport speed (scanning speed) by the ADF 14 is twice the default value, the photoelectric conversion unit 13 outputs pixel data at twice the timing of the default value. 【0038】 Next, we will describe an example of the control system configuration in printer 3. As shown in Figure 3, the printer 3 includes a processor 70, memory 71, transport system 23, image forming unit 25, exposure unit 26, transfer unit 28, and fuser 29. The processor 70 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 71. For example, the processor 70 controls the operation of various parts within the printer 3 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing programs. The processor 70 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 70 performs print processing and other operations in response to operation instructions from the system control unit 5. 【0039】 Memory 71 includes various types of memory, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is rewritable, non-volatile memory. The transport system 23 transports paper within the printer 3 under the control of the processor 70. In other words, the transport system 23 transports paper by driving the transport rollers in each part in response to operation instructions from the processor 70. 【0040】 The exposure apparatus 26 irradiates each photoreceptor drum of the image forming unit 25 with light (laser light) to form an electrostatic latent image, in response to operation instructions from the processor 70. The processor 70 adjusts the printing position and magnification by controlling the irradiation position of the laser light on the photoreceptor drum by the exposure apparatus 26. The processor 70 performs image adjustment by operation control according to the printing range, starting from the printing reference described later, so that the desired printing range is achieved. 【0041】 The image forming unit 25 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum with toner of each color in response to operation instructions from the processor 70. The image forming unit 25 also transfers the toner formed on the photoreceptor drum to the intermediate transfer belt (primary transfer). 【0042】 The transfer unit 28 transfers the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the paper (secondary transfer) in accordance with the operation instructions from the processor 70. The fuser unit 29 drives the heat roller 29b and the pressure roller 29c in accordance with the operation instructions from the processor 70. The heating unit 29a of the fuser unit 29 raises the surface temperature of the heat roller 29b to the desired fixing temperature in accordance with the control of the processor 70. When the fuser unit 29 is controlled to the fixing temperature, it fixes the toner image transferred to the paper to the paper. 【0043】 Furthermore, the processor 70 changes the printing speed (print rate) of each component within the printer 3 in response to operational instructions from the processor 50. For example, if the processor 70 is instructed to print at 1.5 times the default setting speed, it will cause each component to perform its printing operations at 1.5 times the default speed. Also, if the processor 70 is instructed to print at twice the default setting speed, it will cause each component within the printer 3 to perform its printing operations at twice the default speed. 【0044】 Next, we will describe an example of the control system configuration in the control panel 4. As shown in Figure 3, the operation panel 4 includes a processor 80, memory 81, display unit 41, touch panel 42, and operation buttons 43. The processor 80 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 81. For example, the processor 80 controls the operation of each part of the control panel 4 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing programs. The processor 80 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. For example, the processor 80 notifies the system control unit 5 of information entered by the user. 【0045】 Memory 81 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is rewritable, non-volatile memory. 【0046】 The display unit 41's display content is controlled according to operation instructions from the processor 80. The touch panel 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41 and detects the touch position on the display screen. For example, the processor 80 displays icons that can be selected on the touch panel 42 on the display screen of the display unit 41 along with operation guidance. The processor 80 determines the information to be entered by the user according to the touch position detected by the touch panel 42. The operation buttons 43 consist of hard keys such as a start key and a reset key. 【0047】 Next, the operating speed of the digital multifunction device 1, which serves as both an image reading device and an image forming device according to this embodiment, will be described. The digital multifunction device 1 according to this embodiment is manufactured in a manufacturing plant as a device having the hardware configuration shown in Figures 1 to 3. Various default settings are set in the manufacturing process of the digital multifunction device 1. A default value is set for the processing speed of scanning operations using the scanner 2 (scan speed). A default value is also set for the processing speed of printing operations using the printer 3 (print speed). The digital multifunction device 1 can vary the scan speed and print speed, which are set to default values, during operation (while the user is using it). 【0048】 For example, the digital multifunction printer 1 is set to a default scan speed that is slower than the maximum scan speed that can be achieved using scanner 2. This allows the digital multifunction printer 1 to increase the scan speed beyond the default value during use (after it leaves the factory) in response to user instructions. Furthermore, the digital multifunction device 1 is set to a default print speed that is slower than the maximum print speed achievable using printer 3. This allows the digital multifunction device 1 to increase its print speed beyond the default setting during use (after it leaves the factory) in response to user instructions. 【0049】 The digital multifunction printer 1 has a scan counter 541 and a print counter 542. The scan counter 541 counts the number of scans (number of pages of scanned images) for each scan speed. The scan counter 541 may also count the number of scans for each combination of scan speed and scan mode. The print counter 542 counts the number of prints (number of pages of printed images) for each print speed. The print counter 542 may also count the number of prints for each combination of print speed and print mode. 【0050】 The values ​​counted by the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 are read out as appropriate. For example, the values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 are used to charge usage fees according to scanning and printing operations. The values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 may also be made available to external devices connected via the communication interface 55. Alternatively, the values ​​of the scan counter 541 and the print counter 542 may be read out by a service technician from the digital multifunction device 1. 【0051】 Next, an example of the configuration of the scan counter 541 and print counter 542 of the digital multifunction device 1, which serves as an image reading device and image forming device according to the embodiment, will be described. Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of a scan counter 541 provided in the storage device 54 of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to this embodiment. In the configuration example shown in Figure 4, the scan counter 541 counts the number of pages of scanned original images (hereinafter referred to as the number of scans) for each scan mode and scan speed. In addition, the scan counter 541 shown in Figure 4 counts the number of pages scanned for large-size images (for example, larger than A4 size) and the number of pages scanned for small-size images (for example, smaller than A4 size). 【0052】 The scan counter 541 shown in Figure 4 has scan modes of "Full Color," "Twin Color," and "Monochrome." The scan counter 541 also has scan speeds of "Default Value (1x)," "1.5x (1.5x)," and "2x (2x)." Furthermore, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during copy processing and the number of scans during individual scan processing (network scan) as operating modes. 【0053】 The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans for each scan mode and operating mode when the scan speed is set to the "default value (1x)". For example, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "full color" scanning with the default scan speed (1x) and the number of scans in a network scan (individual scan). The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "two-color" scanning with the scan speed set to 1x and the number of scans in a network scan. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans in a copy process using "monochrome" scanning with the scan speed set to 1x and the number of scans in a network scan. 【0054】 The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans at a scan speed of "1.5x" for each scan mode and operating mode. For example, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during a copy process using "full color" scanning at a scan speed of "1.5x" and the number of scans during a network scan. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during a copy process using "two-color" scanning at a scan speed of "1.5x" and the number of scans during a network scan. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during a copy process using "monochrome" scanning at a scan speed of "1.5x" and the number of scans during a network scan. 【0055】 The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans performed at twice the default scan speed for each scan mode and operating mode. For example, the scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during copy processing and network scanning using full-color scanning at twice the scan speed. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during copy processing and network scanning using two-color scanning at twice the scan speed. The scan counter 541 stores the number of scans during copy processing and network scanning using monochrome scanning at twice the scan speed. 【0056】 As shown in Figure 4, the scan counter 541 can count the number of scans for each scan speed. Furthermore, the scan counter 541 can also count the number of scans at each scan speed for each scan mode. Additionally, the scan counter 541 can count the number of scans for copy processing and network scanning for each scan speed. Moreover, the scan counter 541 can also count the number of scans according to the size of the scanned image. 【0057】 Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of a print counter 542 provided in the storage device 54 of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to this embodiment. In the configuration example shown in Figure 5, the print counter 542 counts the number of pages printed (hereinafter referred to as "number of prints") for each print mode and print speed. In addition, the print counter 542 shown in Figure 5 counts the number of pages printed with large-size images (for example, larger than A4 size) and the number of pages printed with small-size images (for example, smaller than A4 size). 【0058】 The print counter 542 shown in Figure 5 has print speeds of "default value (1:1)", "1.5x (1.5×)", and "2x (2×)". The print counter 542 also has print modes of "full color (FULL COLOR)", "two-color (TWIN COLOR)", and "monochrome (BLACK)". Furthermore, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in the copy process and the number of prints in individual print processes (e.g., network printing) as operating modes. 【0059】 The print counter 542 stores the number of prints for each print mode and operation mode when the print speed is set to the "default value (1:1)". For example, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "full color" print at the default print speed (1:1) and the number of prints in individual print processes. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "two-color" print at the 1:1 print speed and the number of prints in print processes. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "monochrome" print at the 1:1 print speed and the number of prints in print processes. 【0060】 The print counter 542 stores the number of prints at a print speed of "1.5x" for each print mode and operation mode. For example, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "full color" printing at a print speed of 1.5x and the number of prints in individual print processes. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "two-color" printing at a print speed of 1.5x and the number of prints in print processes. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using "monochrome" printing at a print speed of 1.5x and the number of prints in print processes. 【0061】 The print counter 542 stores the number of prints at double the print speed for each print mode and operation mode. For example, the print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using double the print speed in full color and the number of prints in individual print processes. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using double the print speed in two-color print and the number of prints in print processes. The print counter 542 stores the number of prints in a copy process using double the print speed in monochrome and the number of prints in print processes. 【0062】 As shown in Figure 5, the print counter 542 can count the number of prints for each print speed. Furthermore, the print counter 542 can also count the number of prints for each print speed for each print mode. Additionally, the print counter 542 can count the number of prints for both the copy process and individual print processes for each print speed. Moreover, as shown in Figure 5, the print counter 542 can also count the number of prints according to the size of the printed image. 【0063】 Next, instructions for setting (changing) the operating speed of the digital multifunction device 1, which serves as both an image reading device and an image forming device according to the embodiment, will be described. Figure 6 shows an example of a menu screen displayed on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4 of the digital multifunction printer 1. In the display example shown in Figure 6, the display unit 41 displays operation command buttons and operation speed setting buttons that can be controlled by the touch panel 42. In the display example shown in Figure 6, the display unit 41 displays "Copy," "Scan," "Print," and "Facsimile" buttons as operation command buttons. 【0064】 The "Copy" button instructs the system to perform a copy operation, printing the image of the document scanned by scanner 2 onto paper using printer 3. The "Scan" button instructs the system to perform a scan operation, scanning the image of the document using scanner 2. The "Print" button instructs the system to perform a print operation, printing the image onto paper using printer 3. The "Facsimile" button instructs the system to perform a fax operation, sending the image of the document scanned by scanner 2 as facsimile data using communication I / F55 or similar. 【0065】 Furthermore, in the display example shown in Figure 6, the display unit 41 displays "1.5x speed" and "2x speed" buttons as buttons for instructing the setting of the operating speed. The "1.5x" button instructs the system to set the scanning and printing speed to 1.5 times the normal speed. The "2x" button instructs the system to set the scanning and printing speed to 2 times the normal speed. For example, if the 1.5x button is selected and the scan button is pressed, the processor 50 will execute the scan process with the scan speed set to 1.5 times the default value. Also, if the 2x button is selected and the copy button is pressed, the processor 50 will execute the copy process with the scan speed and print speed set to 2 times the default value. 【0066】 Figure 7 shows an example of the display when the operating speed is changed on the menu screen displayed by the display unit 41. In the example shown in Figure 7, the scan button is pressed while the "2x speed" button is selected. In other words, when the user wants to scan at twice the default speed, they press the scan button while the "2x speed" button is selected. When the scan button is pressed while the "2x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed to twice the default value and executes the scan process (scan job). 【0067】 Furthermore, if the user wishes to copy at "2x speed" or "1.5x speed," they simply need to press (select) the "2x speed" or "1.5x speed" button and then press the copy button. In other words, the processor 50 accepts the instruction to execute a scan or copy job while the operating speed setting (change) has been instructed. As a result, the processor 50 executes the scan or copy process (copy job) at the instructed operating speed. 【0068】 Next, the scanning operation flow of the digital multifunction device 1, which serves as an image reading device according to this embodiment, will be described. Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the scanning operation flow by the digital multifunction printer 1, which serves as an image reading device according to this embodiment. The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 accepts various operation instructions and operation speed setting instructions while in standby mode (ACT11). For example, the processor 50 displays a menu screen on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4 for inputting various operation instructions and operation speed setting instructions. The user sets the operation speed according to the menu screen and then instructs the process to be executed (scan, copy, etc.). 【0069】 If a scan is ordered to be performed (ACT12, YES), the processor 50 determines whether it has received an order to change the operating speed (ACT13). If it has received an order to change the operating speed (ACT13, YES), the processor 50 sets the scan speed to the specified operating speed (ACT14). 【0070】 For example, if the scan button is pressed while the "1.5x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed to 1.5 times the default value. Also, if the scan button is pressed while the "2x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed to twice the default value. 【0071】 When scanning a document placed in the ADF, the processor 50 adjusts the paper feeding speed of the document by the ADF and the timing at which the photoelectric conversion unit 13 acquires pixel data according to the specified scanning speed. When scanning a document on the document glass, the processor 50 adjusts the movement speed of the carriage by the movement mechanism 63 and the timing at which the photoelectric conversion unit 13 acquires pixel data according to the specified scanning speed. 【0072】 After changing the operating speed, the processor 50 executes a document scanning process (scan job) using the scanner 2 at the set operating speed (ACT 15). While the scan job is running, the processor 50 updates the scan counter corresponding to the set (changed) scan speed for each page of the document image it reads (ACT 16). For example, if a color (full-color) image is scanned at 1.5x speed, the processor 50 increments the counter corresponding to the 1.5x speed full-color scan. Similarly, if a monochrome (black) image is scanned at 2x speed, the processor 50 increments the counter corresponding to the 2x speed monochrome scan. 【0073】 When the scan job is completed, the processor 50 changes the operating speed setting back to the default value (ACT17). This allows the digital multifunction printer 1 to execute the scan job at the user-specified operating speed and then return the operating speed to the default value. The processor 50 may also change the operating speed setting back to the default value after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the scan job was completed. 【0074】 Furthermore, if there is no instruction to change the operating speed (ACT13, NO), the processor 50 performs the scanning process with the default settings (ACT18). When performing the scanning process with default values, the processor 50 updates the default scan counter corresponding to the scan mode each time one page of the document image is scanned (ACT19). 【0075】 As described above, the digital multifunction printer, as an image reading device according to this embodiment, accepts a change in scan speed before performing a scan. When a change in scan speed is instructed, the digital multifunction printer changes the scan speed according to the instructed operating speed. While executing a scan job, the digital multifunction printer counts the number of scans for each scan speed. 【0076】 This allows the digital multifunction printer, as an image reader, to change the scan speed according to user instructions and manage the number of scans for each operating speed. As a result, the digital multifunction printer can be operated in a way that charges usage fees based on the scan speed and the number of scans. 【0077】 The above example of operation was explained assuming a scanning operation, but the digital multifunction printer 1 may also be configured to vary (increase) the operating speed for scanning operations such as fax transmission. In this case as well, the digital multifunction printer counts the number of scans in the scan counter for each operating speed. Thus, the scanning speed in fax processing can also be changed, and the number of scans can be counted for each scanning speed. Furthermore, if the digital multifunction printer 1 is instructed to speed up fax processing, it may also speed up the data processing that converts the scanned image into fax data. For example, the digital multifunction printer may speed up data processing by increasing the operating frequency of the processor that performs the data processing that converts the scanned image into fax data. 【0078】 Next, the copying operation in the digital multifunction printer 1, which is an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment, will be described. Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the copy operation in the digital multifunction printer 1, which serves as an image reading device according to this embodiment. The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 accepts various operation instructions and operation speed setting instructions while in standby mode (ACT31). For example, the processor 50 displays a menu screen on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4 for inputting various operation instructions and operation speed setting instructions. A user who wishes to copy at a speed faster than the default value will set the operation speed according to the menu screen and then instruct the execution of the copy. 【0079】 If a copy operation is instructed (ACT32, YES), the processor 50 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to change the operating speed (ACT33). If it has received an instruction to change the operating speed (ACT33, YES), the processor 50 sets the scan speed and print speed (copy speed) to the specified operating speed (ACT34). Here, the copy operating speed (copy speed) is achieved by changing the scan speed and print speed from their default values. 【0080】 For example, if the copy button is pressed while the "1.5x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed and print speed to 1.5 times the default value. Similarly, if the copy button is pressed while the "2x speed" button is selected, the processor 50 sets the scan speed and print speed to twice the default value. In addition, during copying, image processing is performed to convert the image scanned by the scanner into image data for printing. To speed up the time required for image processing during copying, the processor 50 may set (change) the operating frequency of the processor that performs image processing according to the specified operating speed. 【0081】 After changing the operating speed setting, the processor 50 executes the copy process (copy job) at the set operating speed (ACT35). While the copy job is running, the processor 50 updates the scan counter for the set (changed) scan speed corresponding to the scan mode each time it scans one page of the original image (ACT36). Also, while the copy job is running, the processor 50 updates the print counter for the set print speed corresponding to the print mode each time it prints one page of the image onto the paper (ACT37). 【0082】 For example, when performing a color (full-color) copy at 1.5x speed, processor 50 increments the scan counter corresponding to a 1.5x speed full-color scan. Also, when performing a color copy at 1.5x speed, processor 50 increments the print counter corresponding to a 1.5x speed full-color print. Furthermore, when performing a monochrome (black) copy at double speed, processor 50 increments the scan counter corresponding to the double-speed monochrome scan and the print counter corresponding to the double-speed monochrome print. 【0083】 When the copy job is completed, the processor 50 changes the operating speed setting to the default value (ACT37). This allows the digital multifunction printer 1 to revert the operating speed setting to the default value after completing a copy job at the user-specified operating speed. The processor 50 may also change (revert) the operating speed setting to the default value after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the copy job was completed. 【0084】 Furthermore, if there is no instruction to change the operating speed (ACT33, NO), the processor 50 performs the scanning process with the default settings (ACT39). When performing the copy process with default settings, the processor 50 updates the default scan counter corresponding to the scan mode each time one page of the original image is scanned (ACT40). In addition, the processor 50 updates the default print counter corresponding to the print mode each time one page of the original image is printed onto paper (ACT41). 【0085】 As described above, the digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment accepts a change in the copy speed before performing a copy. When a change in the copy speed is requested, the digital multifunction printer changes the operating speed, including the scan speed and print speed, according to the requested operating speed. When performing a copy, the digital multifunction printer counts the number of scans and prints for each operating speed. 【0086】 This allows the digital multifunction printer, as an image forming device, to change the copy speed according to user instructions and manage the number of scans and prints for each operating speed. As a result, the digital multifunction printer, as an image forming device, can be operated in a way that charges usage fees based on the number of scans and prints, according to the operating speed. 【0087】 Furthermore, in the digital multifunction device according to the above embodiment, the operating speed may be set by an administrator. In this case, the digital multifunction device, while in operation (after shipment), can set the operating speed (scanning speed, printing speed) with respect to the scanning speed and printing speed according to the administrator's instructions. For example, if the administrator instructs the operating speed to be N times the default value instructed by the administrator, the digital multifunction device will set the operating speed to N times the default value instructed by the administrator. In this case, the digital multifunction device may maintain the operating speed at N times the default value until it receives an instruction from the administrator to return the operating settings to the default value. 【0088】 While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. The following is an appendix to the claims originally filed for this application. [1] A scanner that reads the image of the document at a set scanning speed, An operation panel into which instructions for the scanning speed of the scanning process to read the image of the document are input, and a storage unit equipped with a scan counter that stores the page count value of the image read from the document using the scanner for each scanning speed, A processor that sets a scan speed according to the operating speed instructed on the control panel, executes the scan process at the set scan speed, and updates the scan counter according to the number of pages of images read at the set scan speed. An image reading device having [a certain feature]. [2] The scan counter stores a count value for each scan mode and scan speed. The image reading device described in [1]. [3] The control panel receives an instruction to speed up the scanning process, which reads an image of a document using the scanner. When an instruction to speed up the scan process is input to the control panel, the processor sets the scan speed to a speed higher than the default value according to the instruction on the control panel. An image reading device as described in either [1] or [2]. [4] A scanner that reads the image of the document at a set scanning speed, A printer that prints images onto paper at a set print speed, An operation panel on which instructions for the operating speed of the copy process for printing the image of the aforementioned document onto paper are input, A storage unit comprising a scan counter that stores the page count value of an image read from a document using the scanner for each scan speed, and a print counter that stores the page count value of an image printed on paper using the printer for each print speed, A processor that sets the scan speed and print speed according to the operating speed instructed on the control panel, executes the copy process at the set scan speed and print speed, updates the scan counter according to the number of pages of the image at the set reading speed, and updates the print counter according to the number of pages of the image printed on the paper at the set printing speed. An image forming apparatus having [5] The scan counter stores a count value for each scan mode and scan speed. The print counter stores a count value for each print mode and print speed. [4] The image forming apparatus described above. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0089】 2...Scanner, 3...Printer, 4...Operation panel, 5...System control unit, 12...Carriage, 13...Photoelectric converter, 14...ADF, 50...Processor, 53...Image processing unit, 54...Storage device (storage unit), 541...Scan counter, 542...Print counter, 63...Movement mechanism.

Claims

[Claim 1] A scanner that reads the image of the document at a set scanning speed, A communication interface for sending fax data generated from scanned image data of a document read by the aforementioned scanner to the fax destination, An operation panel equipped with an instruction button for speeding up fax transmission, which transmits the fax data via the aforementioned communication interface, A storage unit equipped with a scan counter that stores the page count value of the image read from the document using the aforementioned scanner for each scanning speed, A processor that, when an instruction button for speeding up the fax transmission is pressed on the control panel, sets the scanner's scan speed for the fax transmission to a speed faster than the default value, executes the scanning process at the set high-speed scan speed, updates the scan counter according to the number of pages of images scanned by the scanner at the high-speed scan speed, and changes the scanner's scan speed back to the default value after the fax transmission is completed. An image reading device having [a certain feature]. [Claim 2] The scan counter stores a count value for each scan mode and scan speed. The image reading device according to claim 1. [Claim 3] When an instruction button for speeding up fax transmission is pressed on the operation panel, the processor sets the scanner's scan speed for fax transmission to a speed higher than the default value, speeds up the data processing that generates fax data from the scanned data to a speed higher than the default value, and after the fax transmission is completed, changes the scanner's scan speed and the processing speed of the data processing that generates fax data from the scanned data back to the default values. The image reading device according to claim 1.

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