Double-Side Scanner Module Using Single Image Extraction Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional double-side image scanners require two image extraction apparatuses, resulting in a complex structure and large volume, making them costly and difficult to achieve height reduction.

Innovation Solution

A double-side image scanner module using a single image extraction apparatus with light source compensation and a paper feeder with a through-channel divided into first-side, second-side, and paper-turning regions, employing sensors to detect and align the document for efficient double-side scanning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two image extraction apparatus are used to scan both sides of a document, then double-side scanning capability is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedouble-side scanning capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the function of two separate image extraction apparatus into a single image extraction apparatus. The single apparatus is positioned to scan both the first side and second side of the document as it passes through the paper-feeding through-channel, eliminating the need for duplicate components and reducing structural complexity while maintaining double-side scanning capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single image extraction apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: scanning the first side of the document during initial passage and scanning the second side after the document is turned upside down. This multi-functional design allows one apparatus to replace two, reducing device complexity while preserving versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If two image extraction apparatus are installed vertically stacked, then double-side scanning is enabled, but height reduction becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedouble-side scanning capabilityVSAvoidmodule height
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a vertical stacking arrangement (height dimension) to a horizontal/linear arrangement along the paper-feeding direction. The single image extraction apparatus is positioned to scan both sides of the document as it moves through the channel, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the paper path instead of vertical stacking, thereby enabling height reduction while maintaining double-side scanning capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Volume of stationary object

If a single image extraction apparatus is used for double-side scanning, then volume and fabrication cost are reduced, but image quality consistency between sides becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule volumeVSAvoidimage quality consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies light source compensation technology that provides different illumination conditions for scanning the first side and second side of the document. The light source is adjusted to compensate for differences in paper texture, curvature, and reflection characteristics between the two sides, ensuring consistent image quality despite using a single image extraction apparatus

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts illumination parameters (intensity, angle, spectral composition) based on which side of the document is being scanned. This parameter adjustment compensates for variations in surface properties between the front and back of the document, maintaining uniform image quality across both sides while using a single, compact apparatus

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution allows for reduced volume and fabrication cost, enabling simple and compact double-side image scanning with consistent image quality on both sides of a document.

Implementation Method 1

a light source (408a)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Implementation Method 2

an image extraction device (408d), such as a charge-coupled device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS7612925B2Double-side image scanner and scanning method of the same
Publication Date: 2009.11.03 BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC
  • US7612925B2 patent drawing
  • US7612925B2 patent drawing
  • US7612925B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A double-side image scanner module suitable for scanning a document having a first side and an opposing second side, having a paper feeder and an image extraction apparatus. The paper feeder has a paper-feeding through-channel through which document is transmitted. The paper-feeding through-channel is divided into a first-side scanning region for scanning the first side of the document, a second-side scanning region, aligned with the first-side scanning region for scan the second side of the document, and a paper-turning region between the first-side scanning region and the second-side scanning region, through which the document is turned up side down. A plurality of document transmission members is installed along the paper-feeding through-channel for transmitting the document. The image extraction apparatus is aligned with both the first- and second-side scanning regions to extract images of the first and second sides of the document through the first- and second-side scanning regions, respectively.