Automatic Sheet Size Identification in Multifunction Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image output apparatuses require users to manually input the size of documents, which can be cumbersome, especially for users unfamiliar with the process or without knowledge of the document size.
Innovation Solution
An image output apparatus equipped with an image reader, document size identifier, and suitable size identifier that automatically determines the optimal sheet size based on the document size, eliminating the need for user input and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the user manually inputs the document size using the size inputter, then the sheet size can be identified, but the operation becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic document size identification through image capture and processing, eliminating the need for manual user input. The apparatus itself serves to detect and determine document dimensions, making the system self-sufficient and removing the burden of manual measurement and input from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and input operations with an automated image-based detection system. Instead of users physically measuring and entering dimensions, the system captures an image of the document and automatically processes it to identify the size, substituting mechanical human action with optical and computational processes.
2Extent of automation
If the user is required to input document size, then the sheet size can be determined, but users who do not know the document size cannot properly use the system
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines document size through image capture and processing, making it self-sufficient and eliminating the need for user knowledge about document dimensions. This enables users of all knowledge levels to use the system effectively without requiring them to understand or measure document sizes manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image capture and document size identification before the user needs to select a sheet size. By预先 completing the measurement and analysis steps automatically, the system prepares the necessary information in advance, allowing users to simply follow the system's recommendations without needing prior knowledge of document or sheet sizes.
3Loss of information
If manual size input is required, then precise document size can be recorded, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement and input processes with rapid automated image capture and digital processing. The system captures the document image and processes it computationally to extract size information, which is much faster than manual measurement while maintaining or improving accuracy through consistent digital measurement standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy (image) of the document and performs size identification on the copy rather than requiring physical measurement of the original. This allows rapid repeated measurements from the same image data without physically handling or remeasuring the document, significantly reducing time while preserving measurement accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
In a multifunction peripheral according to the present invention, a sheet selection screen for selecting a sheet that is the output destination is presented. A “check sheet size” button is provided on the sheet selection screen. When the “check sheet size” button is operated, an optimal sheet size identification function is started, and a document size identification process including pre-scan is performed. Accordingly, the size of a document is identified. Further, an optimal sheet size identification process is performed. Thus, the optimal sheet size, which is a suitable sheet size corresponding to the size of the document, is identified.