Image Processing Encoding Selection for Monochrome Documents

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current image processing devices lack convenience in selecting encoding processing methods for monochrome images, particularly when determining two-color documents are processed as full-color, and there is a need to improve user selection capabilities for encoding processing types in copying machines.

Innovation Solution

An image processing device with an input operation portion for selecting encoding processing between JPEG compression for multilevel data and MMR compression for binary data, featuring a display and input portions to swiftly select and specify encoding processing for monochrome images, and a file creation portion to generate files based on user input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If ACS processing automatically determines image type, then processing speed is improved, but two-color documents are misidentified as full-color documents

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidimage type identification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the image analysis process into multiple stages: initial ACS processing for quick identification, followed by histogram analysis and color difference level calculations for verification. This segmentation allows the system to quickly filter obvious cases while applying more rigorous analysis only when needed, resolving the contradiction between speed and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary histogram analysis and color difference calculations on representative samples before final classification. By preparing reference data in advance and using it to guide the main processing, the system achieves both rapid processing and accurate identification of two-color documents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If user can select encoding processing type, then processing adaptability is improved, but operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoding processing selection capabilityVSAvoiduser operation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic encoding selection based on image characteristics (binary vs. multilevel). The system performs self-service by automatically determining the appropriate encoding method without requiring user intervention, thus providing adaptability while maintaining ease of operation. Users can override this automatic selection when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent provides a dynamic interface where the encoding selection mode can switch between automatic and manual based on user needs. The system adapts its operation mode dynamically, offering full automation for routine tasks and manual control when users require specific encoding methods, thereby balancing adaptability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8290283B2Image processing device and image reading device capable of performing encoding processing for compressing multilevel image data and encoding processing for compressing binary image data
Publication Date: 2012.10.16 KYOCERA DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS INC
  • US8290283B2 patent drawing
  • US8290283B2 patent drawing
  • US8290283B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing device includes an input portion for selecting encoding processing for an image to be filed as a monochrome image from first encoding processing according to a first compression method for compressing multilevel image data and second encoding processing according to a second compression method for compressing binary image data. An encoding processing portion performs encoding processing on the image to be filed as the monochrome image. The input portion includes a display and first and second input portions. The display displays a list of images to be filed as the monochrome image. The first input portion is used to specify an image shown on the display and to select encoding processing to be performed on the specified image. The second input portion is used to select the first or second encoding processing to be performed on the specified image.