Duplex Scanning Using Shared Analog Front-End and Switch Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional document scanners are either cost-inefficient or slow due to the need for multiple image sensors and analog front-end units to perform duplex scanning, which limits their ability to rapidly scan both sides of a document effectively.
Innovation Solution
A duplex document scanning apparatus utilizing a first and second image sensor, a switch module, a data conversion unit, and a scanning control device with timing generators and an image processing module, allowing simultaneous switching and conversion of analog image signals from both sides of the document into digital format using a single data conversion unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two analog front-end units are used to enable duplex scanning, then scanning capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate analog front-end units into a single shared unit. The switch module enables this single AFE unit to process analog signals from both the front-side image sensor and back-side image sensor sequentially, eliminating the need for duplicate AFE hardware and thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining duplex scanning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single analog front-end unit is designed to perform multiple functions by processing signals from different image sensors at different time intervals. The switch module directs signals from either the front-side or back-side image sensor to the same AFE unit, making it a universal component that handles both scanning sides without requiring dedicated hardware for each
2Adaptability or versatility
If two analog front-end units are used for sequential signal processing, then duplex scanning is enabled, but scanning speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic switching between processing front-side and back-side signals using the switch module. The switch module alternates between connecting the front-side image sensor and back-side image sensor to the single AFE unit in a periodic manner, enabling efficient time-division multiplexing that maintains high scanning speed while enabling duplex scanning capability
3Ease of manufacture
If a single data conversion unit is used with switching, then cost is reduced, but signal processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module serves as an intermediary component that manages the complex signal routing between two image sensors and a single AFE unit. By introducing this dedicated switching intermediary, the system achieves hardware simplification (fewer AFE units) while the switch module handles the complexity of time-division multiplexing and signal direction
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
Enables rapid duplex scanning while reducing manufacturing costs by using two image sensors and a single data conversion unit, enhancing scanning speed and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The first image sensor senses the image data in the front-side of the document and outputs a first analog image signal
Implementation Method 2
The second image sensor senses the image data in the back-side of the document and outputs a second analog image signal
Implementation Method 3
The data conversion unit converts the first analog image signal and the second analog image signal to generate a first digital image signal and a second digital image signal correspondingly
Data Source
AI summary
A duplex document scanning apparatus and method thereof are described. The duplex document scanning apparatus includes a first image sensor, a second image sensor, a switch module, a data conversion unit, and a scanning control device. The first image sensor senses the first analog image signal and the second image sensor senses the second analog image signal. The switch module switches the first image sensor and the second image sensor to select the first analog image signal and the second analog image signal. The data conversion unit converts the first and second analog image signals to generate first and second digital image signals. The switch control module of scanning control device generates a switch signal to control the switch module. The scanning control device has a switch control unit and processes the first digital image signal and a second digital image signal. The switch control unit generates a switch signal for controlling the switch module and the switch module simultaneously outputs the first analog image signal and the second analog image signal to the data conversion unit during a signal period of the switch signal.