Image Reader Dual-Side Data Output Sequence Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image readers require large memory capacity to store data from dual-side document reading, leading to processing speed issues and increased memory demands, especially when reading conditions and output formats vary.
Innovation Solution
An image reader with two image reading units, one for each side of the document, that switches output order based on reading conditions and output formats, using a controller to manage storage and output sequentially, optimizing memory usage by storing one side's data only when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If both sides of the document sheet are read and stored in memory, then complete dual-side reading is achieved, but memory capacity requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reading and output process into distinct phases. The first reading unit reads the first side and stores it temporarily, then the second reading unit reads the second side. The controller manages sequential output of both sides, dividing the memory burden into manageable segments rather than requiring simultaneous storage of complete dual-side data at high resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary reading and temporary storage of the first side by the first reading unit before the second side is read. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare data in advance and output it sequentially, reducing the need for large memory capacity to hold all data simultaneously.
2Reliability
If large memory capacity is secured for storing read data, then complete data storage is ensured, but processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data flow into separate streams: the first reading unit processes and outputs the first side data while the second reading unit simultaneously processes the second side data. This segmentation allows parallel processing operations, improving overall processing speed while maintaining complete data storage through coordinated sequential output managed by the controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous useful action by having the first reading unit output data to the first output unit while the second reading unit simultaneously reads and prepares the second side data. The controller coordinates these continuous operations to ensure no idle time, maintaining high processing speed throughout the dual-side reading operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If read data of both sides is stored completely, then all reading conditions are accommodated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality through the controller, which universally manages multiple output modes (first output unit for the first side, second output unit for the second side, and combined output). This single controller handles all reading conditions and output formats, reducing device complexity compared to having separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control through the controller, which adaptively manages the reading and output process based on different reading conditions and formats. The controller dynamically coordinates the first and second reading units with their respective output units, providing flexibility for various reading conditions without requiring complex fixed infrastructure for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reader is provided, which includes a controller that when a PC-scan mode is set as an output mode, the controller controls an image output unit to output second read data of a second side of a document sheet at each time when a storage unit stores the second read data output from a second image reading unit on a line-by-line basis, controls the storage device to store first read data of a first side of the document sheet during a time period from a time when a leading end of the document sheet reaches a reading position of a first image reading unit to a time when a trailing end of the document sheet passes through a reading position of the second image reading unit, and controls the image output unit to sequentially output the first read data stored on the storage unit, after completely outputting the second read data.