Scanner Overlap Detection Using Image Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scanners using ultrasonic sensors to detect overlap-feeding of original sheets often result in false detection due to labels or IC tags, leading to inappropriate scan data and unnecessary interruption of the scanning process, as these sensors cannot differentiate between actual overlap-feeding and the presence of labels or IC tags.
Innovation Solution
A scanner system equipped with an image sensor and a detection sensor that analyzes image data to determine the presence of fixed objects, allowing for precise identification of overlap-feeding and preventing false interruptions by distinguishing between labels and actual overlap-feeding based on pre-defined non-detection areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasonic sensor is used to detect overlap-feeding, then detection capability is improved, but false detection occurs due to labels or IC tags
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an image sensor as an intermediary device to verify the detection results from the ultrasonic sensor. When the ultrasonic sensor detects potential overlap-feeding, the image sensor captures an image to confirm whether it is actual overlap-feeding or false detection caused by labels/IC tags. This intermediary verification mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining high detection sensitivity while eliminating false alarms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the image sensor's detection results are used to validate and correct the ultrasonic sensor's detection. The controller receives feedback from both sensors and makes the final determination based on combined information. This feedback loop ensures that the detection system maintains high reliability by correcting false positives from the ultrasonic sensor while preserving its high sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If detection is performed on all areas, then detection accuracy is improved, but false detection increases due to labels or IC tags
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a non-detection area (exclusion zone) around labels and IC tags where ultrasonic detection is disabled. Instead of uniformly detecting all areas, the system selectively disables detection in specific local regions where false detection is likely to occur. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining high detection precision in valid areas while preventing false detection in label/IC tag areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection area is segmented into detection areas and non-detection areas. The ultrasonic sensor performs detection only in designated detection areas, while non-detection areas (where labels or IC tags are located) are excluded from ultrasonic detection. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high detection accuracy in appropriate regions while avoiding false detection in regions with labels or IC tags.
3Reliability
If non-detection areas are determined in advance, then false detection is reduced, but detection coverage is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the detection strategy based on real-time conditions. Rather than statically defining non-detection areas, the image sensor dynamically identifies the actual positions of labels and IC tags during scanning, and the controller dynamically adjusts which areas should be excluded from ultrasonic detection. This dynamic approach maintains high detection reliability while minimizing the loss of detection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor creates a visual copy (image) of the original document, which is then analyzed to identify the actual positions of labels and IC tags. This visual copy is used to dynamically determine non-detection areas, replacing static pre-defined zones. This approach ensures that non-detection areas are accurately determined based on actual document content, maintaining high reliability while minimizing unnecessary detection area restrictions.
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 system effectively reduces false detection of overlap-feeding, ensuring accurate scanning by interrupting the conveyance only when actual overlap occurs, thereby improving the reliability of the scanning process.
Implementation Method 1
damping of ultrasonic wave passed through the sheet(s) which is being conveyed is measured
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor arranged on the conveying passage and configured to optically read the original sheet being conveyed
Data Source
AI summary
A scanner has a controller configured to control a conveyer to convey original sheets one by one along a conveying passage, control an image sensor to optically read the original sheet, determine a detection position of the original sheet based on an output signal of the detection sensor, obtain target image data containing at least a partial image of the original sheet at a detection area including the detection position, determine whether the particular fixed object exists at the detection area of the original sheet by analyzing the target image data with use of particular image information, interrupt conveyance of the original sheet by the conveyer when the detection position is determined, based on an output signal of the detection sensor, to be an overlapped position and when it is detected, by analyzing the target image data, that the particular fixed object does not exist at the detection area.