Automatic Image Orientation Detection in Copying Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing copying apparatuses require users to enter multiple conditions and understand correct original placement orientations, making the operation cumbersome, especially for two-in-one or four-in-one copying tasks.
Innovation Solution
A copying apparatus with predetermined original placement sections for long and short sides of images, including a detection system that automatically determines image orientation and specifies whether the image is a portrait or landscape, allowing for automatic image formation on a recording medium without requiring user input for correct placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the copying apparatus displays messages prompting users to enter conditions and shows correct original placement instructions, then the copying function can be achieved, but the operation becomes troublesome and complex for users
Solution Approach 1:
The copying apparatus automatically detects the original placement section and determines image orientation without user input. The system serves itself by using the detection section to identify where the original is placed and the image orientation specifying section to determine whether the top/bottom orientation is parallel with the long or short side, eliminating the need for users to manually specify conditions or understand placement instructions
Solution Approach 2:
The detection section provides feedback about the actual original placement to the control section, which then uses this information to automatically configure the copying parameters. The system receives feedback from the detection section regarding which placement section is used and adjusts the image formation accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to user actions without requiring explicit user input
2Productivity
If the copying apparatus requires users to understand and follow displayed placement instructions, then accurate copying can be achieved, but the operation time and user effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the original placement section and image orientation before the actual copying process begins. The detection section automatically identifies the placement configuration, and the image orientation specifying section determines the correct orientation parameters in advance, so that when copying starts, all parameters are already configured and ready for immediate execution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of users reading instructions and physically adjusting original placement with an automated detection system. The detection section uses sensors or cameras to automatically detect placement, substituting the mechanical user action of positioning and verifying originals with an automated optical or sensing system that instantly identifies the configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A copying apparatus includes first and second original placement sections with a predetermined orientation of long and short sides of the original to be placed, an image read section for reading the image from the original that has been transported from the first original placement section while the image read section is stationary or from the original that has been placed on the second original placement section while the image read section is moved relative to the original. The copying apparatus causes an image formation section to form the images of a plurality of originals read by the image read section on one side of one recording medium in a predetermined layout based on a detection result of a detection section and a specification of an image orientation specifying section.